8 Day Top of the South island Self Drive
8 Day Top of the South Island - Self Drive
Explore some of New Zealand's sunniest regions at the top of the South Island on this relaxing self tour, which includes the coastal paradise of Abel Tasman National Park, the world-class wine region of Marlborough and Kaikoura with its abundance of marine wildlife.
Highlights
Abel Tasman National Park. Whale Watching Kaikoura Marlborough vineyards and wine tasting.Regions Visited
Itinerary Map
Terms and Conditions
Prices are based on twin share occupancy in a double room, and are subject to availability. If anything comes back unavailable, we will endeavor to find you a suitable alternative.
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Day 1 : Christchurch
Welcome to Christchurch. On arrival you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to your first night’s accommodation.
Your detailed tour information pack will be given to you once you arrive at your accommodation.
Take the rest of the day to relax and explore the inner city, with its famous botanic gardens. The city has bounced back from the devastating 2010 earthquake and is once again a very vibrant place.
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Day 2 : Christchurch - Kaikoura
On the first driving day of your self drive tour around the north of the South Island, you will be heading towards Kaikoura, as the road hugs the rugged coastline between the Pacific Ocean and the Kaikoura Ranges and the views are truly spectacular.
Explore Kaikoura’s bountiful marine wildlife - a result of the ocean canyon close offshore. One of the many highlights is viewing the seal colony with a backdrop of the Kaikoura mountains and coastline.
There are many optional excursions including whale watching cruises and flights. For those keen on an easy walk the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway offers a chance to explore the headland and enjoy the Pacific Ocean views with some interesting Maori history along the way.
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Activity:
Traveling distance : 181 km - approximately 2 hours 50 mins
Day 3 : Kaikoura - Blenheim - Nelson
Today you will leave Kaikoura and you will pass through the Marlborough wine region and the town of Blenheim before arriving to Nelson, New Zealand's sunshine capital, and the South Island's second largest city, noted for its fruit-growing industry in the Motueka Valley, wineries and micro-breweries.
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Traveling distance : 242 km - approximately 4 hours 45 mins
Day 4 : Nelson - Abel Tasman National Park
Today you'll be spending a day in the coastal paradise of Abel Tasman National Park. A water taxi will transfer you into Abel Tasman National Park and drop you off at the Awaroa Inlet, as you'll be spending the night at the wonderful eco-lodge Awaroa Lodge.
Relax by the beach or walk part of the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks.
Stay at
Day 5 : Abel Tasman National Park - Nelson
Before heading back to Nelson in the afternoon, you'll embark on a half day kayaking adventure in the park, exploring its stunning secluded bays and golden beaches from the water.
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Activity
Day 6 : Nelson - Hanmer Springs
You'll be travelling to the picturesque alpine village of Hanmer Springs today, best known for its natural hot pools and stunning landscapes. The town is an attractive year-round holiday destination for adventure, relaxation and indulgence. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and towering forests, this charming town has a main street filled with boutique shops, cafes and eateries.
There are many places of interest en route as well. Your first stop might be Lake Rotoroa in Nelson Lakes National Park, a perfect place to relax by the lake or do one of the short hikes in the area. Your journey then continues through through the Buller Gorge and across the Lewis Pass before reaching Hanmer Springs
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Traveling distance : 115 km - approximately 1 hour 40 mins
Day 7 : Hanmer Springs - Christchurch
Today your journey takes you back to Christchurch, where you can enjoy the afternoon and evening free at your leisure.
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Traveling distance : 115 km - approximately 5 hour 30 mins
Day 8 : Christchurch - Airport
Your tour concludes today and you will be transferred back to the airport on a complimentary shuttle service.
If time allows, visit the famous botanical gardens or take a morning tour to the picturesque seaside town of Akaroa, New Zealand's most french town with its many historic buildings and magnificent harbour.
NZD1,950.00
Price includes
- Complimentary airport transfers
- Detailed tour pack upon arrival at first night's accommodation.
- 4 Coach Tours
- Transfers for/ to airport, and for /to bus stops
- 7 Nights Accommodation with breakfast.
- Whale Watch
- Deep in the Park Abel Tasma
- Wine Tour.
- Kayak and Pitt Heat Natural Loop
Cancellation policy
- Where the date of cancellation is a date 45 days or more before the start of the tour, the cancellation fee will be equivalent to the deposit paid
- Where the date of cancellation is a date 30 to 45 days before the start of the tour the cancellation fee shall be 25% of the contract price
- Where the date of cancellation is a date 7 to 30 days before the start of the tour the cancellation fee shall be 50% of the contract price
- Where the date of cancellation is a date 7 days or less before the start of the tour the cancellation fee shall be 100% of the contract price
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