Find the perfect drop, discover New Zealand's great walks and immerse yourself in true wilderness as you explore the top of the South Island.
For the daring, book a scenic flight(opens in new window) from Kaikoura(opens in new window) to get epic views of the eastern coastline and a chance to see whales, dolphins and birdlife in their natural habitats. For a more relaxing experience board a catamaran(opens in new window) from Kaikoura and get an up-close look at the giant sperm whale which can grown up to 15 metres long and weigh up to 60 tonnes.
One of New Zealand’s Great Walks(opens in new window), the 60km Abel Tasman Coast Track(opens in new window) takes you on a journey amongst our native wilderness to majestic bays accessible only by foot or kayak. The track can be completed in 3 – 5 days and it is easy to combine hiking with sea kayaking and cruising. There are lodges, glamping facilities and huts along the way to stay in. For a truly unique experience in the region take a Waka Tour(opens in new window) or visit Cable Bay Adventure Park.(opens in new window)
Explore the sounds by foot, bike(opens in new window) or kayak, following the 70km Queen Charlotte Track(opens in new window). Bike and luggage transfers are available to make your journey easier. To take in the views at a more leisurely pace jump on a local boat and cruise the Sounds(opens in new window) while learning about the history of Captain James Cook - the first european explorer (on record) to map New Zealand.
Dine on fresh seafood straight from the waters of the Marlborough Sounds (opens in new window)with a seafood cruise(opens in new window). You will be taken out on the sounds to enjoy seafood straight from the source; including King Salmon, mussels and clams matched with a Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc (opens in new window)- guaranteed to be a meal unlike any other!
Home to more than 80 percent of the country’s sauvignon blanc plantings Marlborough(opens in new window) has been affectionately termed the sauvignon blanc capital(opens in new window). Travel between vineyards at your own pace or on a guided tour(opens in new window) to seek out the best of New Zealand’s most popular wine varietal. Treat your taste buds to delicious local cuisine while overlooking the endless rows of vines.
Soak, ride or play at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa(opens in new window). Made up of six distinctive pool areas the complex is a short 90 minute drive from Christchurch(opens in new window) and offers something for everyone. Start your visit with a dip in the mineral-rich sulphur pools(opens in new window) offering 40 - 42 degrees temperatures followed by a soothing massage or aromatic therapy(opens in new window).
History lovers are in for a treat at Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre(opens in new window) with rare memorabilia from Sir Peter Jackson's personal World War One collection on display in the Knights of the Sky exhibition(opens in new window). A mixture of original, flyable and static replica aircrafts can be viewed. Tales from World War Two also come to life as part of the Dangerous Skies exhibition(opens in new window).
Nelson is the home of all New Zealand's hops, due to the perfect growing conditions. The region is also home to 11 craft breweries stretching from Founders Heritage Park to Onekaka in Golden Bay. They provide the perfect excuse for a day of exploring and sampling the local product. If you are interested in a more historical bent to your beer tour, then a visit to the Moutere Inn, one of the oldest pubs in New Zealand, or to the Mussel Inn for a taste of the Captain Cooker beer, is a must do.
Looking for an adventure that gets the heart racing? A seasoned guide will lead you through through mud, streams, forest and over unique terrain on a guided quad bike tour(opens in new window). Suitable for all - including beginners - the scenic track runs through Hanmer Springs and offers an experience like no other. After your tour head over to nearby Hanmer Springs thermal pools and spa(opens in new window) for a relaxing spa.
Known as the whitewater capital, Murchison(opens in new window) is the perfect place to wet your appetite for adventure. With a maze of rivers running through the area it’s a perfect playground for kayaking, canoeing, jet boating(opens in new window), rafting and fishing(opens in new window). For the mountain bike enthusisats New Zealand's longest and most remote bike trail The Old Ghost Road Trail(opens in new window) is a must do.