Ashburton's central area is compact, allowing easy access to cafes, restaurants, shops, and key services on foot. The presence of well-maintained footpaths and safe crossings contributes to its walkability, particularly for travelers staying near the town center. While it's not fully car-free, most daily errands are conveniently walkable. However, this ease diminishes outside the central zone.

Public transport in Ashburton is limited, focusing mainly on intercity connections rather than local travel. The absence of a robust local bus network means travelers cannot rely on it for commuting around town. Taxis are available, but advanced booking is often required, and shared transport solutions aren't as frequent or convenient for daily use.

Ashburton's flat terrain and emerging cycling infrastructure offer a reasonable environment for biking. The town has some dedicated cycle paths and trails, like the Ashburton River Trail, which is great for leisure cycling. However, consistency in bike lanes is lacking, and high-speed limits in rural areas can deter cyclists, especially outside town limits.