christchurch-canterbury

Christchurch - Canterbury

Discover world-class wineries, native forest and wildlife.

Highlights

  • Marine Wildlife
  • Abel Tasman National Park
  • Thermal hot springs

Proximity

Discover the diversity of Christchurch before taking an easy 2.5-hour drive along the scenic coastline to Kaikoura for some dolphin and whale watching(opens in new window). Next stop, wine country. Linger in the picturesque Marlborough region, enjoy a sauvignon blanc or two(opens in new window), and relax in the Marlborough Sounds(opens in new window) waterways. Explore the artisan haven of Nelson and the world-famous Abel Tasman National Park. On the way back to Christchurch unwind in the natural thermal pools and spas of Hanmer Springs(opens in new window).

Day 1: Christchurch to Kaikoura

Christchurch - Canterbury
Dolphin spotting in Kaikoura, Christchurch - Canterbury
see mighty whales up close
christchurch-canterbury

KAIKOURA

Get up close to marine wildlife in this coastal town

Proximity

  • by car:

    Christchurch to Kaikoura

  • by car:

    2 h 30 min | 181 km

Recommended experiences in Kaikoura

Find out more

Start your journey exploring the stunning gardens and parks of New Zealand's "garden city" before heading north to Kaikoura. Few places in the world can boast of such natural wonders as those offered in Kaikoura, take time to experience giant whales(opens in new window), playful dolphins(opens in new window) and marine birds(opens in new window) up close.

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Day 2: Kaikoura to Marlborough

Nelson Tasman
Lake Constance, Nelson Tasman
wander beside tranquil lakes
nelson

Nelson Tasman

Beautiful apline lakes surrounded by lush native forest.

Highlights

  • Walking and hiking trails
  • Trout fishing
  • Picturesque landscapes

Proximity

  • by car:

    Kaikoura to Nelson Lakes

  • by car:

    4 h 50 mins | 347 km

Journey inland to the stunning Nelson Lakes National Park. Take a tranquil lakeside walk or head into the hills for a challenging alpine hike. In winter the Rainbow Skifield above the town of St Arnaurd offers skiing opportunities for all levels, or try fishing for brown trout in the pristine waters of Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotoroa.

Day 3: Nelson Lakes to Marlborough

Marlborough
Viñedos, Marlborough
Savour wine with a view
marlborough

Marlborough

World-famous Sauvignon Blanc

Proximity

  • by car:

    Kaikoura to Marlborough

  • by car:

    1 h 30 min | 128 km

Recommended experiences in Marlborough

Find out more

From Kaikoura travel north to the diverse natural beauty of Marlborough. Take time to enjoy the world-famous Sauvignon Blanc(opens in new window), dine on ocean fresh seafood(opens in new window), walk or bike(opens in new window) through native forest along coastal ridges and meet the wildlife cruising the stunning Marlborough Sounds(opens in new window).

Day 3: Marlborough to Nelson

Enjoy the coastal drive from Marlborough to the secluded golden sand beaches of the Abel Tasman National Park, and discover the unique artisan culture of Nelson. Explore the stunning landscapes by foot, bike(opens in new window), kayak(opens in new window) or boat(opens in new window) and refresh yourself in this welcoming environment.

Day 4: Nelson to Hanmer Springs

Christchurch - Canterbury
Hanmer Springs, Hurunui, Christchurch - Canterbury
Soak up the view
christchurch-canterbury

HANMER SPRINGS 

Natural thermal waters in a resort town

Proximity

  • by car:

    Nelson to Hanmer Springs

  • by car:

    3 h 30 min | 300 km

Recommended experiences in Hanmer Spring

Find out more

Take your time through the Nelson Lakes National Park to Hanmer Springs, a destination for relaxation and refreshment. Soak in the natural hot springs(opens in new window) or discover outdoor activities such as forest walks(opens in new window), horse trekking(opens in new window) and trout fishing(opens in new window) before returning to Christchurch, just 2 hours away.

Day 5: Hanmer Springs to Christchurch

Christchurch - Canterbury
Walking the Port Hills, Christchurch - Canterbury
Discover Christchurch in spring time
christchurch-canterbury

Christchurch - Canterbury

New Zealand's "Garden City" – take your time to explore.

Proximity

  • by car:

    Hanmer Springs to Christchurch

  • by car:

    1 h 38 min | 134 km

Recommended experiences in Christchurch

Find out more

Driving south from Hanmer Springs returning to the vibrant city of Christchurch. Explore a leisurely punt down the Avon river and the famous botanic gardens(opens in new window) that gave this city it's name as New Zealand's "garden city". Just a few minutes from the city wander the easily access.

Explore other South Island itineraries