Itinerary
This 7-day itinerary allows you to explore the top of the south. Starting and ending in Christchurch, traverse delightful sceneries and discover new destinations as you loop around the landscape.
Welcome to the Garden City of New Zealand! After clearing customs and collecting your baggage, a private transfer will be waiting to transport you to your accommodation at Heritage Christchurch for a one-night stay. With the rest of the day to explore the city, take advantage of the Tram, punting on Avon, and Gondola with a Triple Pass to maximise your experience in Christchurch. Consider taking a stroll through the Botanic Gardens and the lively New Regent Street precinct, a visit to the Canterbury Museum and the Arts Centre, or head to the Riverside Market for a diverse array of local cuisine and artisanal products. End your day by catching the sunset from the Port Hills for incredible panoramic views of the city and the Southern Alps.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast on the house! Once fueled up, begin your journey from Christchurch to Greymouth with a seamless private transfer from your accommodation to Christchurch Railway Station. Experience the One-Way TranzAlpine Journey in the Scenic Plus Carriage, taking in the stunning views that unfold throughout the trip. Once settled into your accommodation in Greymouth, take the opportunity to explore the town’s local surroundings or indulge in a satisfying dinner at one of the nearby restaurants.
Today’s journey involves a One-Way Intercity bus from Greymouth to Nelson, where you’ll spend the next two nights at the Rutherford Hotel. Nelson boasts a lively arts scene, with numerous galleries and studios, including the iconic Suter Art Gallery and Founders National Park – an immersive living museum preserving the area’s history through historic buildings and exhibits. If nature is more your thing, take a trip to the Botanic Gardens or head to Tahunanui Beach to relax and soak up the sun. When looking for a bite to eat, be sure to make your way along the Maitai River where you can choose from an array of charming cafes.
Embark on an exploration of Nelson in a Day, a journey designed to introduce visitors to the region’s unique charm. Traverse historic precincts, admire grand old homes, and meander through parks and gardens, all while enjoying panoramic viewpoints that reveal the city and its picturesque surroundings. The route then takes you through the Waimea Plains, known for its rich fruit and wine production. Explore the historic German settlement at Upper Moutere/Sarau, featuring the oldest hotel in New Zealand, and venture up the Riwaka Valley for a walk in an ancient forest to witness the breathtaking Riuwaka Resurgence, where some of the clearest fresh water emerges from Takaka Hill.
Continue the scenic loop drive to Kaiteriteri, a stunning beach that ranks among the most beautiful in New Zealand. The coastal journey to the charming township of Mapua offers surprises with fast-flowing tidal waters, quaint cafes, and art galleries, concluding your day back in Nelson.
Begin your day with another One-Way Intercity bus from Nelson to Picton, where your one-night stay at the Gables Bed & Breakfast awaits. Picton offers a delightful blend of maritime charm and natural beauty. Stroll along the Picton Marina or visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum, where the preserved 19th century ship provides a fascinating glimpse into maritime history.
Explore the vibrant cafes and boutiques in the town centre, sampling local cuisine and browsing for souvenirs. For a dose of nature, embark on the Queen Charlotte Track, either by hiking or taking a water taxi for a shorter journey, reveling in the impressive landscapes. Cap off your day with a seafood dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Prepare for a final adventure with a One Way Coastal Pacific Journey returning to Christchurch, reveling in the breathtaking scenic vistas from the comfort of the luxurious Plus Carriage. As you arrive in Christchurch, a private transfer awaits you at the railway station, ready to drive you to your accommodation. Spend your last evening in Christchurch discovering new spots, or revisit places you may have missed on your initial day.
As you say goodbye to the city, indulge in a final private transfer from your accommodation to Christchurch Airport, allowing you to unwind and savour the final moments of your trip before proceeding to the airport for your onward travels.
