Join us on an extended 5 day expedition around the top of the South Island taking in the delights of Marlborough, Tasman, and Golden Bay

Duration

5 Days

About

Join us as we work our way up the Kaikoura Coast to Picton and through the edges of the Marlborough Sounds to Nelson and Takaka beyond. We then dip down to St Arnaud before slipping through the Lewis Pass to Hanmer Springs for a soak in the hot pools. Finish up by visiting some of the Waipara Vineyards on the last leg of the tour back to Christchurch

Itinerary:

Day 1:

Departing Christchurch we navigate our way north through Kaikoura and on to Picton. Coastal scenery with moutain backdrops dominates the coastal areas, along with marine mammals. If time permits there is the possibility of doing whale watching at Kaikoura as an optional extra. Around Picton is some incredible scenery we can access as part of the Marlborough Sounds

Day 2:

Picton to Takaka: Heading west, we make our way via Linkwater and Havelock to Nelson, and then north through Motueka to Takaka where we set up for the night. If time permits we head up to Puponga and have a look at Farewell Spit before returning to Takaka

Day 3:

Takaka to St Arnaud: Working our way south through Tapawera we enjoy rugged scenery and riverside road stops before arriving in quaint St Arnaud, the entry way to the Nelson Lakes National Park. St Arnaud sits at the head of Lake Rotoiti giving us access to explore the area including the Peninsula Nature walk track

Day 4:

St Arnaud to Hanmer Springs: From St Arnaud we head towards the thermal springs of Hanmer Springs, detouring along the way to visit Lake Rotoroa, before passing through Murchison. Leaving Murchison we gradually head round in a southerly direction towards the Maruia Falls, Lewis Pass and eventually Hanmer Springs. Optional extras include a swim at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools.

Day 5:

Hanmer Springs to Christchurch: From Hanmer Springs we make our way south east towards our eventual destination of Christchurch. Along the way we stop at a number vineyards to sample and enjoy their treasures, before stopping at one biggest for a veritable feast of a lunch. A last few photography stops along the way puts us back in Christchurch for an end to our adventure

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
• Snacks, beverages, and drinks
• Scenic stops