Ashburton: Offering a Kiwi slice of life

Backdrop
Lying amidst the picturesque Canterbury Plains and bounded by the Southern Alps to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east, the Ashburton District is thriving, underpinned by a strong local economy.

The region produces 50% of New Zealand's grain and 60% of the country's small seed production, although this is only part of the story.

The Ashburton District is also world famous, having starred in the Lord of the Rings movies and many film-makers are taking more of an interest in the area as a filming location.

Its main centre, Ashburton, is home to 14,592 people (2006 Census), is a thriving hub of activity and is at the forefront of New Zealand's agricultural and pastoral industries.