If you are looking for an epic way to experience New Zealand’s south island, then you have come to the right place. This 15-Day Christchurch to Christchurch package will have you on an adventure like no other, from relaxing in hot thermal pools in Hanmer Springs, coming up close and personal with giant sperm whales aboard a Whale Watch Cruise in Nelson or staying in your private cabin on board, the Fiordland themed Milford Mariner as you peacefully cruise along the entire length of the Sound.
Welcome to Christchurch. Having cleared customs and immigration formalities, you collect your car rental and make your way to
you have chosen accommodation.
Today is yours to explore this garden city. The regeneration of Christchurch has opened up different pockets to discover. Take in the new Riverside Farmers markets or venture out to the Port Hills, Sunmer and Lyttleton. A punting ride on the Avon River or a stroll
the botanic gardens is a lovely way to spend the afternoon
This morning drive inland to the naturally picturesque and tranquil alpine village of Hanmer Springs, nestled in a valet at the foothills of the Southern Alps. Relax in the hot thermal pools of the Hanmer Springs Thermal Reserve before continuing to Kaikoura, located in a narrow strip of stunning coastline that lies between mountain peaks and the Pacific Ocean.
Every Whale Watch tour is a unique experience and sightings may vary from day to day. Giant sperm whales are the star of the show and are year-round residents. A typical Whale Watch tour may encounter fur seals, pods of Dusky dolphins and the endangered Wandering Albatross. Depending on the season, you may also see migrating Humpback whales, Pilot whales, Blue whales and Southern Right whales. Later today, continue north to Blenheim, the gateway to the well-known Marlborough Sounds region before arriving at Nelson.
Experience for yourself the legendary Abel Tasman Maritime Park. Cruise into protected bays and view the fur seal colony on Tonga Island. The Launch hugs the shore, travelling close to idyllic beaches fringed by native forest. The Abel Tasman Coastal track is well-formed and shaded and comes out onto protected beaches which are excellent for swimming. Enjoy a great day on the water combining cruising, sightseeing bush walks and beautiful beaches.
Travel south through the Nelson Lakes region before arriving on the West Coast. Marvel at the bizarre limestone landscapes that are the
Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowhole
The West Coast is home to towering rainforests, mountains and glaciers, tranquil lakes and rushing rivers. It is steeped in history dating back to the gold rush era of the 1860s. There is the opportunity to experience an optional scenic flight over this remarkable region this afternoon, weather permitting. Your overnight stay tonight is in the glacier village of Franz Josef.
View incredible scenery as you travel past the untouched native forests and pristine lakes of the World Heritage Westland National Park and Haast Pass. There is time to wander around the popular lakeside townships of Hawea and Wanaka before travelling over the spectacular Crown Range to the historic gold mining village of Arrowtown. On to Queenstown, a beautiful alpine report regarded as
New Zealand’s premier holiday destination.
Surrounded by majestic mountains, Queenstown boasts adventure and leisure activities in all forms, from extreme to relaxed exploration. Jet boating, river rafting, wine tours, lake cruises, 4WD Lord of the Rings tours and bush walks are just some of the numerous activities available.
Travel by coach along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Te Anau. Continue along the spectacular Milford Road and through the hand-strewn Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound where you board the Milford Mariner for a relaxing cruise along the entire length of the Sound to the Tasman Sea where you will view spectacular waterfalls, rainforests, mountains, and wildlife. The Milford Mariner is designed along the lines of a traditional New Zealand trading scow to reflect Fordland’s heritage and you will be accommodated in private cabins with ensuite bathrooms in this purpose-built vessel. It boasts spacious deck areas for viewing the wilderness, scenery and wildlife of Milford
and activities include kayaking and excursions in tender vessels (stabi craft) to explore the coastline
An optional scenic flight back to Queenstown this morning is available subject to weather conditions (own expense). Upon your return to Queenstown, the rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy all that this spectacular resort has to offer.
This morning, you will be collected from your hotel and taken to Glenorchy to join your Dart River Jetboat Safari. Here you jet boat on crystal clear waters in a wild and scenic landscape amidst towering peaks, glaciers, and the ancient rainforests of the Mt. Aspiring National Park. This is far more than a jet boat ride, it’s a rare journey into the enchanted wilderness of a World Heritage area. This afternoon is free for further sightseeing.
Today you will journey through the historic gold rush routes of Central Otago, passing through the townships of Cromwell, Clyde, and Alexandra en route to Dunedin, the ‘Edinburgh of the South’. It is a city of rare charm set amidst a magical landscape edged by the sea and boasts many activities for lovers of nature and wildlife.
Begin your day with a visit to Olveston House, Dunedin’s splendid historic home where you will get a glimpse into the lifestyle of a privileged New Zealand family in the early 1900s. Travel north, stopping to view the unusual spherical Moeraki Boulders, before driving into Mt Cook National Park, a world heritage listed site that covers over 70,000 hectares of stunning alpine scenery.
This morning you get to experience the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake and icebergs up close on the only tour of its kind in New Zealand. Experienced local guides whisk you away in a stable MAC boat to explore the melting ice face of the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s largest, and you’ll be able to touch and taste 400-year-old ice. At Lake Tekapo, stop to view the tiny Church of the Good Shepherd before crossing the vast Canterbury Plains to the ‘Garden City’ of Christchurch.
Free time this morning for some last-minute sightseeing, shopping or relaxing before returning your vehicle at Christchurch airport
for your onward flight
To book this amazing trip or perhaps tailor the duration to a shorter holiday, contact your Travel Counsellor today and you’ll benefit from our 24-hour duty office ready to assist you before, during and after your trip.
With a cleverly planned city break, you can really make the most of your weekend. There are so many amazing European destinations, with more than enough sights and attractions to fill two, three, or even four days.
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Embark on the ultimate adventure with our Best of New Zealand - Self Drive holiday, spanning 17 days and 16 nights from Auckland to Christchurch.
