6 Day South Island
Christchurch - Kaikoura - Blenheim - St Arnaud - Punakaiki - Ashburton - Christchurch
Day 1
Christchurch
Begin in Christchurch, the South Island's largest city, situated on the sunny east coast of the Island, come and enjoy with the Garden City has to offer.
Some Christchurch Highlights:
- International Antarctic Centre
- Orana Wildlife Park & Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
- Christchurch Art Gallery
- Christchurch Botanical Gardens
Places to stay:
- Camelot Cathedral Square Hotel (currently not available)
- Elms Hotel
- The Ashley Hotel Christchurch
- Latimer Hotel (currently not available)
Christchurch City has a vibrant and lively arts and entertainment scene, it is also full of award-winning restaurants, cafes, fashion precincts and of course it's beautiful gardens.
Day 2
Kaikoura - Blenheim
The seaside settlement of Kaikoura is located on a rocky peninsula midway between Christchurch and Picton. This unique combination of ocean and mountains offers stunning coastal alpine scenery and fantastic activities including Whale watching and Dolphin swimming.
Some Kaikoura Highlights:
- Whale Watching
- Dolphin swimming
- Wilderness Walks
Places to stay:
Whether you are looking for relaxation, nature or excitement, Kaikoura has something for everyone. Drive just under 2 hours to Blenheim.
Day 3
Blenheim - St Arnaud
Blenheim is situated in the Marlborough region of New Zealand and is a host to stunning valleys, soaring mountains, vineyards, idyllic waterways in a scenic and landscape, award-winning wine and produce, and superb regional cuisine.
Some Blenheim Highlights:
- Winery Tours
- The Millennium Art Gallery
- Gourmet Wine & Food Tours
Places to stay:
Continue on 1.5 hours to St Arnaud.
Day 4
St Arnaud - Punakaiki
St Arnaud is situated at the edge of the Nelson Lakes National Park, enjoy the beautiful surroundings of the lakeside area.
Some St Arnaud Highlights:
- Water Skiing & other water sports
- Lake Cruises
- Mountain Gold Course
- Guided Treks
- Scenic Flights
Places to stay:
The wide variation of terrain in this area makes it attractive for hikers and there is an extensive network of tracks and huts. Travel 2.5 hours to Punakaiki.
Day 5
Punakaiki - Ashburton
Punakaiki is best known for the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, both of which are spectacular and a must see when visiting the West Coast.
Some Punakaiki Highlights
- Pancake Rocks
- Blowholes
- Horse Treks
- Rainforest and coastal tracks
- Paparoa National Park
Places to stay:
Punakaiki also has many colourful local crafts people – jewellers, carvers, painters and potters, drive on 5.5 hours to Ashburton.
Day 6
Ashburton - Christchurch
Ashburton is located on the east coast of the South Island, surrounded by braiding rivers and surrounding foothills. Ashburton is the perfect place for hot air ballooning, skydiving, heli-flights and nature hikes.
Some Ashburton Highlights:
- Hot Air Ballooning
- White Water Rafting
- 4WD Adventures
- Heli-flights
Places to stay:
Drive 1 hour back to the garden city of Christchurch.
