DAY 1 - ARRIVE CHRISTCHURCH

 On arrival in Christchurch, ‘The Garden City’, you will be met by our local representative and privately transferred to your hotel.

Overnight at Christchurch.

DAY 2 - CHRISTCHURCH - KAIKOURA

Travel through North Canterbury before turning towards the coast and arriving in Kaikoura, a town steeped in Maori history and legend.

 Enjoy a Whale Watch experience by boat (weather permitting – tomorrow early morning is the alternative cruise time).

You will have the opportunity to view the magnificent sperm Whale as well as New Zealand’s own tiny Hectors Dolphin, Fur Seals and Royal Albatross.

Overnight at Kaikoura.

DAY 3 - KAIKOURA - BLENHEIM

A leisurely start this morning before you continue north to Blenheim, the centre of the Marlborough region and New Zealand’s most famous wine growing area.

Afternoon is at leisure. Spend the overnight at Blenheim.

DAY 4 - BLENHEIM - NELSON

Explore the Marlborough Wine Region this morning including a winery visit with tasting before heading through to Havelock Marina.

Join the Greenshell Mussel Cruise this afternoon on the Marlborough Sounds before continuing by road through to Nelson.

Overnight at Nelson.

DAY 5 - NELSON

At leisure to enjoy Nelson. Optional activities include a day excursion to Abel Tasman National Park or enjoy a visit to one of the many wineries in the region. Optional activities not included in the tour price.

DAY 6 - NELSON - PUNAKAIKI

Travel across hill country today through the Buller Gorge to Westport and down the coast to the famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks.

 Overnight at Punakaiki.

DAY 7 - PUNAKAIKI - GREYMOUTH - CHRISTCHURCH

A short journey today to reach the town of Greymouth.

 Board the Tranz Alpine train and travel through the rainforest of the West Coast to reach Arthur’s Pass National Park and the Southern Alps.

Then descend through the rugged gorges of the Waimakariri and travel across the Canterbury Plains to reach Christchurch.

DAY 8 - DEPARTURE DAY

 Your arrangements conclude today with a departure transfer to the Christchurch airport.