Christchurch to Nelson via Kaikoura route planner

Driving north from Christchurch you will be surrounded the rolling hills of Canterbury’s wine region, the Waipara Valley. As the country’s fastest growing wine region there are plenty of places stop and enjoy a long lunch – or follow the North Canterbury Food & Wine trail to sample more local flavours and meet the passionate people who create them.

Turning inland toward the Southern Alps you will reach New Zealand’s premier alpine spa destination of Hanmer Springs. Set amongst a backdrop of forests and mountains, what better way to unwind and rejuvenate than a long soak in the Thermal Pools or a soothing massage at the award winning Spa.

From here, the drive to the township of Kaikoura will wind along the rugged east coast where the majestic Southern Alps come crashing down into the Pacific Ocean. Try and spot seals from your car window or take in a fresh feed of crayfish or mussels from a roadside caravan.

Kaikoura itself is a place where eco-tourism meets Maori culture, and it is this ocean that is a rich habitat for marine mammals and seabirds. Get close to these awe-inspiring natural attractions like whale watching,  swimming with the dolphins or seals, albatross viewing or seal kayaking.

As you continue north, make sure you celebrate your arrival in the Marlborough wine region with a glass of world-class Sauvignon Blanc matched to superb local food. It’s never far between the many vineyards, wineries, classy cafés and restaurants.

Prefer sitting in a train carriage to the driver’s seat? You can do this journey by rail. The Coastal Pacific train, which runs daily between Picton and Christchurch (with a stopover in Kaikoura), is a train lover’s dream with 22 tunnels, 175 bridges and spectacular scenery the whole way.

Keen to swap the vineyards and rolling hills of Marlborough with to-die-for coastal scenery and experiences? Then, drive on over the hills and you’ll soon be in the sunny Nelson Tasman region.

It’s easy to succumb to Nelson’s creative charms. This seaside city is home to a substantial artistic community including New Zealand’s unique World of WearableArt and Classic Cars Museum – bringing together amazing works of art in fashion and car design.

Here, you’re also on the doorstep of three national parks – never far from glistening golden sand beaches, turquoise crystal clear waters, and vast untouched forests.  Ask the locals where to go – they will happily share their favourite spots.

Take your time and enjoy! Kiwis voted Abel Tasman National Park their # 1 New Zealand destination, and it’s easy to see why.  You may also choose to walk through the quiet natural beauty of the Kahurangi National Park, to hike or mountain bike on the Heaphy Track - New Zealand’s longest Great Walk.

When you decide to leave – if you do – you’ll go home with a healthy glow, and the knowledge of having experienced something that others dream about.