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16 Day New Zealand Wildlife Encounters

Auckland Christchurch
Duration: 16 Days
Scale: 1 - 10 people
From: Auckland
To: Christchurch
Categories: Self Drive Tours
Transportations: Car

 16 Day New Zealand Wildlife Encounters 

A self drive journey around New Zealand starting in Auckland and finishing in Christchurch in search of encounters with New Zealand's wildlife, while still taking in the main attractions and sights New Zealand has to offer.


Highlights 

Swimming with dolphins

Whale Watching Kaikoura

Watch penguins come ashore at Curio Bay

Milford Sound

Gannet Colony Cape Kidnappers East Coast

  

Regions Visited

   
 
   

Itinerary Map

 

A self drive journey around New Zealand starting in Auckland and finishing in Christchurch in search of encounters with New Zealand's wildlife, while still taking in the main attractions and sights New Zealand has to offer.


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. 

Click here for the full

  • Day 1 : Auckland

    Welcome to Auckland and New Zealand. On arrival you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to your first night’s accommodation. Or if you’ve decided to pick up your rental vehicle immediately, you pick up your vehicle at the airport and drive to your accommodation.

    Your detailed tour information pack will be given to you once you arrive at your accommodation.

    You’ll most likely be pretty tired from a long flight, so take the rest of the day to relax and explore the inner city. The city centre of Auckland is not too big, so you can easily walk around. Visit the Skytower to take in great views of the city, and stroll around the waterfront with its many nice bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a great meal.

    Accommodation :  

  • Day 2 :Auckland - Bay of Islands-Paihia

    Today your self drive tour around New Zeealand to meet some of the friendly wildlife begins. Once you've collected your car first thing in the morning (in case you don't already have it), you'll head North across the Auckland Harbour bridge. Northland is a region with a abundance of marine life, subtropical climate and pristine beaches, but is also a region with historical significance.

    About half way between Whangarei and Paihia, at Whakapara,  we recommend you take the turn off for Helena Bay/Whangaruru. The journey to Paihia will be a little bit longer as the road winds its way along the coastline, but this stretch of coastline is absolutely stunning as you approach the Bay of Islands. Turquoise, azure waters, spectacular rocky formations and island views, this will no doubt get you excited for what New Zealand has to offer.

    When you arrive in the Bay of Islands, stop in the picturesque sea side town Russell, the first European settlement in New Zealand, before taking the ferry to Opua for the final short stretch into Paihia. 

    Take the afternoon off to explore the town, or if you really want to get stuck into it already, take a cruise to the Hole in the Rock at the tip of Cape Brett, or visit the Waitangi Treaty grounds, one of New Zealand's most significant historic grounds.

    Accommodation :  

    Driving distance : 251 km   - Driving time : approximately 4 hours 20 mins

    Optional activity : Hole in the rock cruise.

     

  • Day 3 : Bay of Islands

    You will wake up with the knowledge you could be swimming with dolphins in a few hours time.  Your half-day cruise (8.00am - 12.30pm) seeks out the many playful common and bottlenose dolphins within the sheltered waters of the Bay. Keep an eye out for other marine life as well, including whales, penguins and seals as you cruise around the islands. Your experienced crew for the morning will have an intimate knowledge of dolphin behaviour – join them in searching for those tell-tale splashes from our purpose-built dolphin watching boat. If conditions permit, jump into the warmest waters in New Zealand and snorkel with these graceful and inquisitive creatures – it'll be an experience you will never forget!

    You'll have the afternoon off to relax or shop around town. For the restless, you might want to explore the region a little more by heading further north. Taupo Bay is a small beach town popular with Kiwis during the summer, 

    Accommodation :  

  • Day 4 : Bay of Islands - Auckland

    On your way back to Auckland today,  stop for a coffee at the famous Hunterwasser toilets in Kawakawa, before taking another detour, this time to the Tutukaka Coast. The Tutukaka Coast is home to the Poor Knights Islands, world renowned for it's world class diving and marine life. Just north of Matapouri, a beautiful walk brings you to Whale Bay.  Sandy bay is another beautiful spot and has great surfing. 

    When you arrive back in Auckland, you'll join a tour exploring the main Auckland city sights before heading out to the Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium, which showcases over 30 live animal in spectacular habitat displays, including the world's largest Antarctic penguin colony exhibit and amazing underwater viewing tunnels.

    Accommodation :   

    Driving distance : 276 km   - Driving time : approximately 4 hours 10 mins

     

  • Day 5 : Auckland-Rotorua

    Today you're heading south, and once you pass the Bombay hills you'll be driving through the green pastures of the mighty Waikato. These lush farmlands were chosen as the location for the Shire in the Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit films, and are located not far outside the town of Matamata en route to Rotorua, so you may want to spend a few hours on a Hobbiton tour before continuing onwards to your final destination for the day.

    Rotorua is also nicknamed Roto Vegas by Kiwis for the amount of attractions it has. The main attractions are Maori culture and amazing geothermal activity. The region also has many beautiful lakes to explore. World-class biking trails, excellent hiking traills, natural hot streams, luxurious spas, a whole range of adventure activities such as rafting, sledging, jetboating, zorbing, racing down a steep hill in a luge, this place has it all. We recommend that you take the afternoon to experience one of these activities.

    Your evening experience will be a memorable one. You will attend the Mitai Maori Village cultural performance, giving you a unique introduction to authentic Maori culture. It includes a traditional Maori dinner, the Hangi.

     

    Accommodation :  

    Driving distance : 228 km   - Driving time : approximately 2 hours 45 mins

     

     

  • Day 6 : Rotorua - Taupo - Napier

    The drive to Taupo from Rotorua is only about an hour, but there are many things to see en-route. Wai-O-Tapu geothermal wonderland with its colorful hot springs, boiling mud pools and barren moon landscapes will leave you in awe. This is one of the most unique places you'll ever visit. 

    About 2kms north of Taupo, a must see are the impressive Huka Falls. This is where the Waikato River, New Zealand's longest river, enters a shallow ravine of hard volcanic rock. The resulting sight is nothing but spectacular. More than 220,000 liters of water per second rushes by.

    Another waterfall worth a stop is the less known is the Waipunga waterfall about halfway on the Taupo-Napier highway.

    After your arrival in Napier, you'll visit the world's largest Gannet Colony at Cape Kidnappers on a guided tour in the afternoon. This fun eco-experience is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with personalized service and guides who point out the natural and geological wonders of the area. 

    Accommodation :  

    Driving distance : 219 km   - Driving time : approximately 2 hours 45 mins

     

     

  • Day 7 : Napier -Wellington

    Before you head off for Wellington, we recommend you drive up Te Mata peak to watch the sunrise. The 360 degree views  are spectacular and on a clear day you can see as far as the volcanoes.

    Then travel through the rural farmlands and vineyards of Hawke's Bay and the Wairapara on the way to Wellington.

    Find out yourself why Wellington was named best liveable city in the world in 2016. A visit to the national museum Te Papa is a must-do. A trip on the iconic cable car gives you great views across the city and bay at the top.

    Stroll around in Cuba street, with its many funky bars known for their craft beers, cafes, and excellent restaurants.

    Optional activity : Wellington Seal Coast Safari

    Accommodation :  

    Driving distance : 322 km   - Driving time : approximately 4 hours 15 mins

     

  • Day 8 : Wellington-Picton-Blenheim

    Today you will say goodbye to the North Island and cruise across the Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry.

    Upon your arrival in the small but picturesque fishing town of Picton, you will carry on your journey to Blenheim through the Marlborough region, world famous for its Sauvignon Blanc wine.  So why not take advantage of a pre-arranged wine tour. A fun way to explore the vineyards around this region may be on of the wine bike tours.

    Accommodation :  

    Travelling distance : 130km - Travelling time (including ferry ) : 4 hours 10 mins.

     

  • Day 9 : Blenheim-Kaikoura

    Due to the 2016 Kaikoura earthquake, State Highway 1 north of Kaikoura is still closed. This means your journey today will be a longer than the usual trip from Blenheim to Kaikoura, but it is also the more scenic route. About an hour south of Blenheim lies the Nelson Lakes National Park,  situated in the northernmost ranges of the Southern Alps. Although best known for its lakes, both large and small, this 101,733 hectare park offers tranquil beech forest, craggy mountains, clear streams, open tussock lands and river edge clearings.

    Further South-East you'll cross the Lewis Pass en route to Hanmer Springs. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and towering forests, this charming town has a main street filled with boutique shops, cafes and eateries. The region around Hanmer Springs is also well known for its many natural hot springs.

    Once passed Hanmer Springs you'll back up north along the coast for your final stretch into Kaikoura.

    Accommodation :  

    Driving distance : 450 km   - Driving time : approximately 6 hours 8 mins

     

     

  • Day 10 : Kaikoura-Hokitika

    In the morning you'll join a Kaikoura Whale Watching tour. The abundance of marine life you'll encounter on this trip is truly amazing. You may see the royal albatross take flight from the water,  a pod of dolphins checking out the boat, fur seals, and of course the main attraction, the Sperm Whale.

    In the afternoon you have the option to cross from east to west via Arthur's Pass, the highest pass over the Southern Alps. Or you may drive back via Lewis Pass and arrive at Westport before heading your way down to Hokitika. Just outside Westport lies Cape Foulwind, where you can enjoy a close encounter with New Zealand fur seals in their natural habitat on the wild west coast of the South Island. A little further south lies Paparoa National Park and the famous pancake rocks, where columns of water shoot skyward from rocks that resemble giant stacks of hotcakes. 

    The seaside town of Hokitika will be your final desintation of today. Hokitika is a place to appreciate the fascinating history of the west coast. The Arahura River, which enters the sea just north of Hokitika, is a traditional source of pounamu (greenstone). There are a number of jewelry stores selling greenstone in town, and are well worth a look.

    Accommodation :  

    Driving distance : 424 km   - Driving time : approximately 5 hours 45 mins

     

     

  • Day 11 : Hokitika -Franz Josef

    After two longer driving days, today will only be a short drive to the glacier country in Westland National Park, so explore the glaciers at your own pace today. There are numerous walks up to the base of the Glaciers. 

    Lake Matheson nearby Fox Glacier provides stunning views of Mt Cook reflected in the water.

    Recommended tip : Take a heli-flight up Frans Josef Glacier.

    Accommodation :  

    Driving distance : 134 km   - Driving time : approximately 1 hours 45 mins

     

     

  • Day 12 : Franz Josef -Wanaka

    Your drive today takes you through a number of national parks. The road between Frans Josef and Haast winds its way along the rugged West Coast with lush native bush and rainforest. Haast is located in the heart of Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area, with national parks to the north, south and east.  You'll head inland and into the Mt Aspiring National Park with its towering mountains and glaciel fed rivers with crystal clear waters. The road then takes you along Lake Hawea before arriving into Wanaka.

    In winters skiers from all over the world flock to Wanaka for its great skiing, and in summer the impressive mountains provide for a range of adventure activities. We recommend a hike in the Matukituki Valley west of Wanaka.

    Accommodation :  

    Driving distance : 134 km   - Driving time : approximately 1 hours 45 mins

     

     

  • Day 13 : Wanaka -Queenstown

    Today you will not be traveling far. The road over the Crown Range between Wanaka and Queenstown only takes a little over an hour, so you'll have plenty of time to spend the day in Queenstown. 

    The day is entirely yours, the question is, will you be able to decide what to do? Queenstown is synonymous with adventure, it is dubbed the "adventure capital of the world". Regardless of the season, Queenstown gets your adrenaline flowing year round, and the options are endlesss. Want to throw yourself out of a plane in amazing scenery, jump off a bridge in the birthplace of Bungy, jetboat, raft down a river, you name it...Queenstown has it all. 

    The town itself sits on the shore of Lake Wakatipu among dramatic alpine ranges, and the scenic drive to Glenorchy is one of our favourites in New Zealand. Another way to enjoy the beautiful scenery is a cruise on the TSS Earnslaw.

    Because Kiwis are nocturnal birds, chances are slim you will see one in the wild, so a good place to meet the New Zealand icon is the Kiwi Birdlife Park.

    Accommodation :  

    Driving distance : 67 km   - Driving time : approximately 1 hours 5 mins

     

     

  • Day 14 : Queenstown -Te Anau

    Heading south along the shores of Lake Wakatipu you are heading for Te Anau today. This picturesque town on the shores of Lake Te Anau is your base for the Fiordland National Park wilderness. When you arrive in Te Anau, your will continue onwards to Milford Sound on one of the most spectacular drives in New Zealand. Once you arrive you will board for a cruise through the fiords. Also keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins and fur seals as you cruise along.

    Milford Sound is truly breathtaking in any weather. The fiord's cliffs rise vertically from the dark waters, mountain peaks scrape the sky and waterfalls cascade downwards, some as high as 1000 metres. When it rains in Milford Sound, and it often does, those waterfalls multiply with magnificent effect. You will feel humbled by the magnitude of nature upon your return to Te Anau late in the afternoon.

    Accommodation :  

     

    Driving distance : 173 km   - Driving time : approximately 2 hours 10 mins

    Driving Te Anau - Milford Sound : 118 km   - Driving time : approximately 1 hour 45 mins

     

     

     

  • Day 15 : Te Anau -Dunedin

    Crossing back from west to east today, your journey will take you off the beaten track to the Catlins in the southwest of the South Island. This regions is blessed with some spectacular waterfalls as well as the abundance of marine wildlife. New Zealand fur seals, hooker sea lions, yellow-eyed penguins and seabirds all live here.  The Curio Bay area is also a protected nesting ground for yellow-eyed penguins. You'll need to arrive at low tide and the best viewing position is from the purpose-built platform.

    Make sure you also visit Nugget Point, one of the most distinctive landforms along the Otago coast.  A five minute walk takes you to the lighthouse, where you'll enjoy amazing views along the coastline in both directions. If you look down onto the rocks directly below the lighthouse, you'll see fur seals lolling about, playing in rock pools and generally having fun. Nugget Point is also home to sea lions, sooty shearwaters, shags, yellow-eyed penguins, spoonbills and a breeding colony of gannets. Occasionally, elephant and leopard seals visit the area. If you watch the water for a while, you might see Hector's dolphins. From Nugget Point it's an easy walk to Roaring Bay, where you can hide and wait for yellow-eyed penguins. Early morning or sunset are the best times for viewing.

    After all these encounters, you'll head up to Dunedin to spend the night. Known as the Edinburgh of New Zealand, Dunedin is the country's city of the south, wearing its Scottish heritage with pride. Surrounded by dramatic hills and at the foot of a long, picturesque harbour, Dunedin is one of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere.

    Accommodation :  

    Driving distance : 289 km   - Driving time : approximately 3 hours 25 mins

     

  • Day 16 : Dunedin -Oamaru-Christchurch

    On the last day of your tour, you'll have the chance to see the world's smallest penguins in their natural environment in Oamaru. The birds nest right around the harbour area and the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony offers a unique opportunity for you to observe these birds.

    A little bit further north you'll find the Moeraki boulders, mysteriously spherical stones scattered across a beach.

    You are now on your final stretch into Christchurch where your tour ends. 

    Driving distance : 361 km   - Driving time : approximately 4 hours 40 mins    

     

     

ENQUIRE NOW HERE
From / per person

NZD4,027.00

Booking
Total:
NZD4,027.00
Important information
  • Complimentary airport transfers
  • Detailed tour pack upon arrival ot accommodation.
  • 16 day car rental with unlimited daily kilometers
  • Standard insurance with zero excess reduction option.
  • 15 Nights Accommodation.
  • Interislander Ferry crossing.
  • Swimming with Dolphins.
  • Auckland City Sights tour and Kelly Tarlton's Sea Life Aquarium entrance fee.
  • Maori Village cultural performance and dinner.
  • Gannet Colony tour.
  • Kaikoura Whale Watch.
  • Kiwi Bird Life Park .
  • Milford Sound Cruise .
  • Oamaru Penguin Colony.

  • 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

Start planning and create your own custom New Zealand itinerary here:

Taranaki

 

 

Taranaki might be a slightly less known region in New Zealand, unless you're a keen surfer or windsurfer. The landscape is dominated by the perfectly shaped volcanic cone which is Mt Taranaki, or Mt Egmont. At 2500m not only does it entirely dominate the landscape, but it also creates its own climate. On any given day, the winds may be reaching gale force on one side of the mountain, while on the other side you may be relaxing on the beach without a sigh of wind, such is the impact of the mountain.

In winter you may ski down the mountain in the morning, and in summer there are a number of excellent hiking opportunities, including hikes to the summit or right around the mountain.

Surf Highway 45 offers word class surf and windsurfing conditions and the black iron sandy beaches are wild and beautiful and aplenty.

 

Marlborough

 

When travelling from the North Island to the South Island on the Interislander ferry, the sheltered waterways of the Marlborough Sounds are the first sight. Picton is the destination port, and a good base to go walking, fishing, sailing, kayaking and exploring the many secluded bays in the Sounds. 

The Marlborough region is internationally recognized for its world class wine, most notably its Sauvignon Blanc, and there are many different ways to sample these wines as their are many wineries offering excellent wine tours. By bike, or by luxury old timer cars, the creativity with which these tours are organized is brilliant. The seafood in this region is also sumptuous, great to combine with a glass of the local wines.

Those put off by the large crowds on the Abel Tasman Track will love the Queen Charlotte Track. The beaches are a little less exquisite, but the coastal scenery is still stunning and there are many accommodation options aolong the track.

Kaikoura

 

Kaikoura is a unique place by the sea where marine wildlife lives in abundance, against the backdrop of the impressive Kaikoura mountain ranges. It is well known for its range of eco-tourism activities and getting up close with the main inhabitant along its shores, the giant Sperm Whale.

Whale watching in Kaikoura is simply a must-do as you're guaranteed to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, and along the way you're most likely to see a pod of bottlenose or duksy dolphins play in the water, be impressed by the take-off and water landing of the Royal Albatross, and see a bunch of sea lions lazing about on a rock, suc is the diversity.

The ocean here also provides some spectacular seafood, and a stay in Kaikoura may not go by without having tried the crayfish


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Millenniumm Queenstown

 Image result for millennium queenstown

Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping, entertainment and outdoor activities such as bungy jumping, white water rafting and jet boating. The popular ski destinations of Coronet Peak, Remakables, and Cardrona are also close by. 

This luxury hotel also offers accessible rooms for special needs guests with their friendly staff on hand to assist you anytime. Most of this accommodation also offers scenic views of Queenstown city and mountains, providing the perfect backdrop to your trip. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel, with an Environmental Sustainability Plan for the future. 

Citylife Wellington (Heritage)

 Image result for citylife wellington

Wellington prides itself on being not only the country’s capital, but also its cultural capital – and there’s no better place to soak up the atmosphere than CityLife Wellington, with hotel accommodation located right in the heart of the city. Situated on Lambton Quay, you’ll find the best shopping, tourist attractions and cultural landmarks all within easy walking distance.

When you want a breather, the hotel offers plenty of ways to make the most of your downtime. Enjoy a hotel experience unlike other Wellington hotels.

Whether you’re seeking Wellington accommodation for work, rest or play, our spacious rooms offer you the comforts of home - with the added benefits of housekeeping and room service.

Offering a range of one and two bedroom serviced apartments, After an exciting day of sightseeing or business, you can now enjoy an even better night's sleep with extra comfy beds in all rooms.

 

Rutherford Nelson (Heritage)

 Image result for rutherford nelson a heritage hotel

Whether you’re visiting our incredible region for business or pleasure, Rutherford Hotel Nelson is the obvious choice for luxury accommodation in Nelson.

Rutherford Hotel Nelson is Nelson’s only 24-hour fully-serviced hotel, offering luxurious rooms and suites – ideal for corporate travelers, families and conference delegates. The central location means Nelson’s many galleries and City attractions are just a stone’s throw away. All rooms have a view of the harbour, city, historic South Street or Nelson’s beautiful cathedral.

The stylish accommodation will suit anyone looking for a great place to stay in Nelson, whether you’re here on holiday, in town for a wedding or visiting Nelson for a conference. 

 

Distinction Hotel Lake Te Anau

 

Get away from it all, and escape into the serene surroundings of Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Lake Te Anau before heading out to explore the world-famous beauty of Fiordland including Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. With its range of modern hotel accommodation options, 2 on-site restaurants, FREE unlimited WiFi, complimentary guest car parking and an excellent standard of service, the team at Distinction Luxmore Hotel will make your stay in Te Anau comfortable and enjoyable.
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Conveniently located in the heart of Te Anau's town shopping centre and a short stroll from Lake Te Anau, the South Island's largest lake and launching pad for many water based activities. The 180 room Distinction Luxmore Hotel offers guests a wide range of modern, refurbished hotel accommodation.

Alpine Resort Wanaka (Distinction)

 Image result for alpine resort wanaka


Distinction Wanaka Alpine Resort is nestled in a quiet Lake Wanaka location and guests can enjoy access to the resort facilities whilst staying in the serviced apartments. The stylish, self-contained, serviced apartments each provide a high level of personal comfort and convenience, perfect for all seasons.

They offer a fully equipped kitchen, televisions with 50+ channels of SKY channels, free WiFi, under-floor heating in the bathrooms, private & secure car garages, perfect for storing additional equipment such as skis and bikes. Enquire about daily, weekly and longer term servicing options..

Scenic Hotel Napier

 Image result for scenic hotel napier

We invite you to enjoy quality 4-star hotel accommodation of an international standard. From the moment you step into our spacious, light-filled lobby, you will experience our commitment to quality and customer service. If you fancy waking up to serene ocean views, Scenic Hotel Te Pania is the perfect place to start your day in Hawke’s Bay. Simply leave the curtains open, roll over in bed, and soak it all in. 

Hawke's Bay is one of the first places in the world to see the light each day, with Napier hotel enjoying a premium waterfront location on Napier's Marine Parade. The hotel’s slender curved form echoes the shape of the bay and guests are treated to sweeping views out over the water. A fresh, contemporary style hotel, Scenic Hotel Te Pania is just a short stroll from Napier’s main art deco style street and is located in close proximity to many of Napier's attractions..

 

Scenic Franz Josef

 Image result for scenic hotel franz josef

In the heart of the village and edge of the Westland World Heritage Park, the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier is only a breath away from the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier. 

This hotel offers everything you need to be able to explore this dramatic region in style and comfort. With an exceptional restaurant, serving hearty, West Coast fare, and the Moa Bar with its open fireplace, you are never without choice. Plus, with the private hot pools and our Amaia Luxury Spa close by, you can enjoy time out to rejuvenate after a day taking in the many walking tracks and other outdoor pursuits. 

Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel, plus a guest information and booking service will ensure that you can make the most of every minute you spend in the Westland region.

 

Funyaks + Jet Boat

  Image result for funyak + jet boat queenstown

This day in and around Queenstown takes you deep into "Paradise", near Glenorchy in Mt Aspiring National Park.

An unmissable experience with the exhilaration of a wilderness jet boat ride combined with a leisurely downstream float on easy to use Funyaks (inflatable kayaks) awaits you. This trip is a must-do to explore the truly unique Dart River. Your amazing journey begins with an exhilarating jet boat ride up the Dart River deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mt Aspiring National Park. From here you’ll then travel back down river at your own pace in our unique Funyaks exploring pristine waters as they flow from the Southern Alps to Lake Wakatipu, hidden side streams with amazing rock pools and dramatic chasms.
Just when you think your Funyaks adventure is over, you will enjoy a gourmet buffet lunch before heading via 4 wheel drive coach to locations used in the movies to illustrate Middle Earth from ‘Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’.

Peppers Bluewater Resort - Lake Tekapo

 Image result for peppers bluewater resort

Near the shores of Lake Tekapo, in the heart of Mackenzie Country in New Zealand’s central South Island, is Peppers Bluewater Resort. Overlooking Lake Tekapo this resort is located in an intensely beautiful part of the world.

Peppers Bluewater Resort is set amongst the purest natural landscape. Romantic and secluded, your accommodation in Lake Tekapo reflects the beautiful landscape surrounding you.

You can explore the natural wonders of Mount Cook and the Mackenzie region from here. Marvel at an International Dark Sky Reserve with millions of stars. Ride horses through the mountains, catch a scenic flight to Franz Josef glacier, go skiing, or immerse yourself in the Tekapo Springs Day Spa and Hot Pools.

Glacial Day Spa

Experience total relaxation and rejuvenation at the day spa with a full range of treatments designed to enhance and maintain your health and beauty. Each of the 4 therapy rooms features beautiful views of the hot pools, Lake Tekapo and the mountain ranges. 

Treat yourself to the healing benefits of massage in the beautiful, calm space of our Glacial Day Spa. Our expert staff are skilled in a wide range of treatments designed to revitalise the body and recharge the mind.

Massage has many benefits which include a boosted immune system, reduced pain and inflammation, improved sleep, increased flexibility and range of motion as well as enhanced wellbeing by reducing anxiety, stress and depression.

Waikato

The Waikato is the fourth largest region in New Zealand, covering 25,000 square kilometres. It stretches from the Bombay Hills and Port Waikato in the north down to the Kaimai Ranges and Mt Ruapehu in the south, and from Mokau on the west coast across to the Coromandel Peninsula in the east. The region has 1,138 km of coastline.

Punakaiki

Punakaiki is a small community on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand, between Westport and Greymouth. The community lies on the edge of the Paparoa National Park. The Pancake Rocks are a very popular tourist destination at Dolomite Point south of the main village.