6 Days Top of South Island (Christchurch to Christchurch)
Highlights
- Abel Tasman National Park (scenic boat trip, walks)
- Hanmer Springs Hot Pools
- Kaikoura (seals, dolphin and whale spotting)
- Marlborough Winery Visit
- Native tree planting
- Nelson Lakes National Park
Departures
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Itinerary: day by day
Day 1- Christchurch to Picton
We leave Christchurch at 9am from the Antarctic Centre for a scenic drive to the port town of Picton with a stop to view a seal colony on the way. We arrive in the afternoon with time to take a walk with some stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds.
Day 2 - Picton to Abel Tasman
You have the morning at leisure to just relax or explore Picton further on foot or mountain bike before we head through to Marahau. We stop for a wine tasting in NZ's premier wine region world-famous for its Sauvignon Blanc then head across to Nelson and out to the Tasman region for the picturesque beaches and bays of the Abel Tasman National Park. We stay in our exclusive campsite in cabins located adjacent to the national park where your group gets the chance to plant a native tree or seedling to leave a legacy of your stay! Dinner tonight includes a taste of local seafood (BD).
Day 3 -Abel Tasman
An entire day to explore the Abel Tasman National Park. We have included a boat transfer out of the park so you can walk this famous coastal track, incorporating some of the NZ's best beaches. You can upgrade to one of the other great options including sea kayaking or sailing. We self-cater tonight with BBQ facilities available and stay again in cabins at our campsite right beside the National Park. (B)
Day 4 -Abel Tasman to Hanmer Springs
Today we set off early passing through two more national parks en route to the tranquillity of Hanmer Springs. The Kahurangi and Nelson national parks boast fabulous scenery and some great small hikes with craggy mountain ranges draped with forest to the lake's edge. We will have a picnic on the lake edge today. We arrive at Hanmer Springs in the afternoon and have a relaxing soak in the hot pools. Tonight we enjoy dinner (included) at a local restaurant (BD).
Day 5 - Hanmer Springs to Christchurch
The day begins with a small drive to the coast heading to Kaikoura, a stop that offers a sanctuary of marine life. Regardless of what you choose to do you will encounter marine life in many forms. There are seals, dolphins, whales or the king of the skies, the Royal Albatross. There is a fantastic walk starting from the seal colony around the cliff tops where you will get amazing views. We give you time to do even the longest of options here then we express south to the South Island's largest city, Christchurch (B).
Day 6 – Kaikoura to Christchurch
We leave Kaikoura at 6.30am for an express trip across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch city, arriving at approximately 8.45am.
B = Breakfast | L = Lunch | D = Dinner
Valid: 01 April 2012 - 31 March 2013
Travel Insurance is compulsory for all travellers on all tours and details must be presented to tour guide before departure. Please refer to terms and conditions for more details.
Tour upgrades
5 nights budget ensuite
Notes
Itineraries may vary and/or attractions be substituted for any cause including seasonal conditions, weather extremes, Traditional Owner and national park requirements. Please see terms and conditions of travel for full details.
Adventure Tours New Zealand is operated by Stray Ltd.
A STRICT luggage limit of 15KG applies
Safaris must be reconfirmed 48 hours prior to departure by phone
Included
- Experienced tour guide
- accommodation transfers
- accommodation
- meals as indicated
- boat transfers in the Abel Tasman National Park
- a winery visit and a soak in the hot springs of Hanmer
What to bring
Sturdy walking shoes (ankle high), swimming gear, hat & sunscreen, motion sickness tablets, water bottle, towel, toiletries, warm clothing, and waterproof jacket, insect repellent and camera.
