4 Days 363 km

Highlights

  • Penguins
  • Moeraki Boulders
  • Historic architecture

Proximity

CAR-FREE TRAVEL OPTIONS

Be inspired by dramatic coastal views, rare birdlife and surprising pockets of art, architecture and heritage on this classic South Island itinerary.

Discover dramatic coastal views, rare birdlife and surprising pockets of art, architecture and heritage on this classic 4-day itinerary from Christchurch to Dunedin.

Day 1: Spend the day in Christchurch

Christchurch - Canterbury
Lyttleton, Christchurch, Christchurch - Canterbury
christchurch-canterbury

FIND ACCOMMODATION IN CHRISTCHURCH

Highlights

  • Markets and shopping precincts
  • Punting on the Avon
  • Akaroa on Bank Peninsula

TOP EXPERIENCES IN CHRISTCHURCH

Enjoy shopping, art, great food & wine and stunning scenery in Christchurch.

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Your journey begins in the South Island's largest city, Christchurch, a place brimming with innovation and creativity.  Visit the stunning botanic gardens, punt down the Avon River or ride the historic tram to the city's various shopping and eating precincts.

Travel beyond the main centre with a cross-country bike ride into the Port Hills or a day trip to the French colonial settlement of Akaroa, on the stunning Banks Peninsula.

Day 2: Christchurch - Oamaru

Dunedin
Yellow-eyed penguin, Dunedin

Proximity

Highlights

  • Penguin colony
  • Oamaru Public Gardens
  • Oamaru Victorian Precinct

TOP EXPERIENCES IN OAMARU

Discover remarkable geological formations, native wildlife and unique history.

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As you travel south take time to explore the region's many charming rural towns. Visit local museums in Ashburton, shop for arts and crafts in Geraldine and discover maori rock art in Timaru

Spend the afternoon wandering the streets of Oamaru where you will find New Zealand's best 19th century architecture. Don't forget to check out the harbour and the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony(opens in new window) – a must see attraction. 

Day 3: Oamaru - Dunedin

Waitaki
Moeraki Boulders, Waitaki

Proximity

  • by car:

    1 h 30 min | 113km

  • by bus:

    1 h 35 min | Oamaru to Dunedin

Highlights

  • Moeraki Boulders
  • Stunning coastline
  • Orokonui Eco-Sanctuary

TOP EXPERIENCES IN DUNEDIN

Discover the spectacular landscapes, wildlife and local history of Dunedin.

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The road to Dunedin is lined with breathtaking beaches and fascinating geology.

Visit Moeraki where giant perfectly rounded boulders lie strewn across the beach. At Katiki Point, see fur seals and yellow-eyed penguin resting alongside the Moeraki Lighthouse. Stroll down the stunning white sand beaches of Kakanui, Waikouati and Karitane. 

Orokonui Eco-Sanctuary(opens in new window) - a 300 hectare, wildlife sanctuary and home to many of New Zealand's native birds and reptiles, is a must-see.

Day 4: Spend the day in Dunedin

Dunedin
City Centre, Dunedin
dunedin-coastal-otago

Dunedin

FIND ACCOMMODATION IN DUNEDIN

Highlights

  • Museums and heritage
  • Otago Peninsula wildlife
  • Surfing, mountain biking

Proximity

Dunedin is a vibrant mix of heritage, wildlife and colourful nightlife. Explore the historic homestead of Olveston, wander through the magnificent Larnach Castle or visit one of the city's popular museums. 

Beyond the city, Otago Peninsula boasts an array of native wildlife; penguins, albatross, seals and sea lions. Outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking and surfing are also popular.

Spend the evening checking out the city's many restaurants and bars.

View the journey below

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Mountains and Glaciers South Island Itinerary