Join us on a three day adventure into the heart of the Nelson Lakes National Park. A playground for nature lovers, along with some epic scenery!

Duration

3 Days

About

Three inspiring days ex Christchurch deep into the heart of the Nelson Lakes National Park. Accessed via the Wairau Valley the countryside gets increasingly remote the closer we get to St Arnaud. Weather permitting, we might even try a spot of Astro-photography that night before heading to Maruia Springs Thermal Pools and the Lewis Pass back to Christchurch

Itinerary:

Day 1:

We head north from Christchurch taking in the Kaikoura Coastline, and the scenic Wairau Valley before arriving in the picturesque hamlet of St Arnaud at the foot of Lake Rotoiti where we set up for the night in the heart of the Nelson Lakes National Park. Did you know there is a Lake Rotoiti in the North Island too? For those that wish to there may be chance for astrophotography, and getting up early could capture the sunrise as it comes up over the lake before breakfast

Day 2:

To day we work our way westwards taking in Lake Rotoroa, the township of Murchison (lunch), O’Sullivans bridge where we turn in a southerly direction and join SH 65, before arriving at the picturesque Maruia falls. Continuing the trend of heading south, we take in numerous other photogenic sites before arriving at our destination for the night at the famed *Maruia Hot Springs. Note: Price includes Sauna and Bathing. If you wish to take a private bath this an additional cost per person.

*Please note that Maruia Thermal Hot Springs are not always available, especially during winter. In this instance, we travel on to Hanmer Springs and stay there.

Day 3:

After a leisurely start we slowly work our way south over the Lewis Pass and towards the Waipara Valley where we eventually rejoin SH 1. If time and opportunity permits we visit some of the Waipara vineyards and may get to sample their wines and enjoy some fine dining for lunch before resuming our journey back to Christchurch. A last few stops at a picturesque beach, and at the Waimakariri Riverbank Park sees us firmly back in Christchurch by late afternoon

Inclusions:

Pickup from some of the main hotels within Christchurch, or alternately from the Canterbury Museum

• Expert, knowledgeable guide
• Activities and Permits
• Photography tuition (if required)
• Late model, air conditioned transport
• All meals including lunch, dinner, breakfast
• Accommodation
• Maruia Springs Thermal hot pools
• Snacks, beverages, and drinks
• Scenic stops