Road Trip: South Island Discovery

Christchurch is a vibrant city with a rich English heritage nestled on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, bordered by the Waimakariri River and the Pegasus Bay. With innovative architecture, public installations such as the 185 Chairs, and international street art, Christchurch is undergoing an extraordinary urban regeneration. Explore Quake City, a space that showcases the aftermath of Canterbury’s recent earthquakes, Māori galleries that contain some beautiful pounamu (greenstone) pieces, and the International Antarctic Center with its interactive and educational exhibits. Hagley Park and Christchurch Botanic Gardens offer delightful green spaces within the city. Not to be missed is the hop-on-hop-off loop tram, a fun ride infused with commentary, to navigate the city’s highlights. For a more leisurely experience, go punting on the Avon River, passing through the heart of Christchurch, and sit back and relax on a gondola ride that offers stunning vantages of the Canterbury Plains, the Banks Peninsula, and the Southern Alps beyond!

Lake Tekapo is about three hours drive south-west of Christchurch in the Mackenzie Basin. The township faces north across the remarkable turquoise coloured lake to the mountainous drama of the Southern Alps. Lake Tekapo gets its intense milky-turquoise colour from the fine rock-flour (ground by glaciers) which is suspended in the water.

Oamaru boasts the country’s oldest public gardens, renowned Victorian architecture and two penguin colonies. Oamaru, the largest town of the Waitaki District, has a rich history and proud heritage, enriched by the passionate and perhaps quirky locals. Explore this heritage in the Victorian Precinct, where you will find, shops, galleries and traditional crafts within some of the Southern Hemispheres most complete Victorian streetscapes and19th century architecture. This heritage and history is proudly celebrated each November during Oamaru’s Victorian Heritage Celebrations. A new heritage experience is also nestled right in the heart of Victorian Oamaru, Whitestone City. This is a fun-filled and interactive experience that the whole family will love.

Dunedin, also known as the ‘Edinburgh of New Zealand’, is a charming city in Otago Harbor on the idyllic South Island. Blessed with unique landscapes and abundant wildlife, this quirky city also boasts a bustling center, and a vibrant art and culture scene. A hip university town known for its Scottish and Maori heritage, visitors can while away time at various well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian-style structures, including the Larnach castle and railway station, and numerous heritage building turned cafes. Outside of town, scenic roads take you past the busy harbor along dramatic hills with entire neighborhoods built on the steep slopes. Dunedin is a great base for hiking or cycling with several picturesque regions nearby. Explore the Otago Peninsula, a wildlife reserve and breeding ground for albatross, seals and penguins, dotted with beautiful beaches, rugged viewpoints, and quaint hamlets. Several walking or tramping tracks also welcome you to cut loose through shrublands and forested valleys around the city.

Explore the rich natural and cultural history all around Dunedin on this exciting trip. Discover the volcanic Otago Peninsula that stands on the easternmost corner of town, leading down to the valley and Otago Harbour. Home to a great many flocks of water birds and waders, this unique hilly and oceanside landscape is perfect for bird sightings. Take photographs if you wish, before taking a wildlife cruise. Have fun spotting sea lions, fur seals, Little Blue Penguins and the only mainland breeding colony of Royal Albatross on our planet. Visit the Larnach Castle, which stands on top of the peninsula. Built in the late 19th century, this is the country’s only castle and has recently been recognized as a national heritage building. Admire the spectacular views from the castle top, taking in the elegant architectural details, the sprawling grounds and gardens, as well as its fascinating history. Return to your hotel after sailing down the Otago Harbour on a leisurely cruise in the warm winter sun. (Time of the day: 1030 or 1130 hrs, depending on the season; Duration: 5 hrs; Shared Activity; Fitness level: Moderate; Please wear comfortable walking shoes).

Te Anau, with its breathtaking landscape, sits on the banks of serene Lake Te Ana, the second largest in the country. Known as the gateway to Fiordland National Park, this picture perfect town is located amid nature’s bounty with spectacular glaciers, endangered flightless takahe birds, limestone cave, beech forests, and majestic mountains all within easy reach. Hike the Kepler, Routeburn, and Milford tracks, explore the spectacular Te Anu glow worm caves, book a scenic flight, and indulge in fishing or kayaking at this outdoor paradise. Whether you are looking for authentic Kiwi cuisine or international flavors to tantalize your taste buds, the restaurants in Te Anau have something for everyone. Famed for its wild food, especially venison, lobster, and various other varieties of seafood, Te Anau has a selection of fine dine and casual eateries, some featuring live entertainment and al fresco dining.

Set off from Te Anau and travel along the lake to your cruise. Keep your camera handy to capture the special moments along the Milford Road. Enjoy the spectacular views while you traverse the Main Divide of the Southern Alps. Pass under the mountains through the Homer Tunnel, a long passageway created through solid rock. Hop onboard the cruise at Milford Sound, which will take you down the length of the ford and into the Tasman sea. Over the course of the next two hours, listen to your captain’s animated and informative commentary as you travel; you will sail past rock walls scarred by glaciers, gorgeous waterfalls, and the majestic Mitre Peak towering at a height of 1,692 meters. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, savor a mouthwatering buffet lunch aboard the cruise. Finally, it's time to get off the boat and drive back to Te Anau or Queenstown. (Duration: 6 hrs; Time of day: 1045/1245/1445 hrs; Shared Activity; Self-drive).

Queenstown is where adventure seekers head out to for a shot of adrenalin! The region’s dramatic landscape is wrapped around the scenic lakes, velvety mountains and valleys of the Southern Alps. Summer or winter, there’s always plenty to do along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and the slopes of the Coronet Peak. Arguably the bungee jumping and skydiving capital of the world, get ready to plunge down bridges, planes and hill tops. The fiord of Milford Sound, home to the rare black coral, seal colonies, penguins, dolphins and the Mitre Peak, is not too far away. Kayaking along Lake Wakatipu, camping at the Routeburn Track, jet-boating down the Shotover and Dart rivers, and skiing down Coronet Peak and The Remarkables are some of the city’s popular pastimes. Queenstown also forms a base for exploring South Island’s other adventure destinations, charming vineyards and old mining settlements around Wanaka, Glenorchy and Arrowtown.

Your tour begins at the boarding point on the Dart River, where you can hop onto a uniquely designed jet boat to explore the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park, just outside of Queenstown. Zoom past magnificent natural formations on the braided, turquoise blue, glacier-fed river systems, while soaking in the spectacular scenery around. Listening to stories of Māori expeditions, and your guide performing exciting river spins, head into the picturesque Te Waipounamu World Heritage Area. Disembarking shortly after, take a walk inside ancient beech tree forests on the heritage Greenstone Trail, and learn about the myriad native flora and fauna. Later, board a 4×4 coach to explore the scenic backcountry, especially several Middle Earth locations including the Paradise Valley campervan site, used as a backdrop for the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies. Finally, en route Glenorchy, enjoy beautiful vistas of snow-capped mountains and native forests along the banks of Lake Wakatipu. Drive past horse stables, cattle stations, and pristine homesteads, before dispersing. (Duration: Full Day; Time: 0800/ 1200/1230 hrs; Shared Activity; Fitness level: Moderate; Please bring sunscreen, and a warm layer of clothing, and wear comfortable shoes.)

Welcome to glacier country! Explore Franz Josef (also Waiau), a small township perched alongside the Waiho river that serves as a gateway to the majestic Franz Josef Glacier. Surrounded by dense rainforests, secret waterfalls, suspension bridges, and tartare tunnels with glow worms, Franz Josef is a treasure trove of natural wonders, making it an ideal base to enjoy numerous outdoor activities. The area’s stunning beauty can be enjoyed through a number of ways – Scenic flights and heli-hikes over the West Coast glaciers, kayak tours on Lake Mapourika, glacier valley walks and more. Unwind at the natural hot pools found around the region. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the West Coast Wildlife Center which prides itself on its conservation efforts of the Rowi and the Haast tokoeka, two of the most endangered Kiwi species in the world.

Begin your walk on the one-way Bailey bridge, and set out into the lush Westland Tai Poutini National Park that protects the famous Franz Josef glacier. During this leisurely experience, hop across streams, traverse rocky river beds of the Waiho River, and soak in the rainforest surrounds to a background of birdsong. Take short breaks to admire native flora and fauna, and a few gushing waterfalls along the way. You can also catch glimpses of the glacier, and a few peaks of the Southern Alps in the distance. Heading up the valley, see other dramatic natural formations such as schist boulders, the Split-Apple rock, and the Champness rock, while your guide shares local Maori folklore, as well as facts about glaciology and the region’s natural history. Upon reaching the viewpoint, sip on hot drinks and gaze into the terminal face of the Franz Josef glacier, glistening against the lofty rock walls. Back at Franz Josef town, relax in the glacier hot pools. (Duration: 3 hrs; Time: 1015 or 1415 hrs; Shared Activity; Includes hiking gear and entry to glacier hot pools; Please note this tour does not take you onto the glacier).

The stretch of land comprising Greymouth, Punakaiki, and Westport, situated along the West Coast of South Island, is a treasure trove of natural resources. Explore the diverse geographical features of this region, from snow-capped mountains to rainforests and from beaches to rivers to limestone formations. Visit the Paparua National Park near Punakaiki and the famous pancake rocks with winding walkways and “blowholes”. Greymouth is the largest town on the West Coast with spellbinding views of the Southern Alps. Visit Monteith’s Brewery here, one of New Zealand’s oldest, and Shantytown, a recreated 1900s gold mining town. Among places of interest at Westport are the coal museum, Hawk’s Crag canyon and cliff and Lake Rochfort.

Head out at your own pace to the scenic town of Punakaiki on this fascinating exploration of the famous Pancake Rocks. Make your way to Dolomite Point on the outskirts of town where you can see a cluster of naturally stacked limestone rocks that resemble pancakes! Stroll down the walkway to enjoy splendid views of these geological formations that are believed to have been formed 30 million years ago. Capture stunning images of seawater spurting out of several vertical blowholes at high tide before you wind up your walk. You could also head to nearby Truman Track that takes you through the subtropical forest to a vantage viewpoint over a scenic beach. After exploring to your heart’s content, you could browse the charming stores in town or enjoy refreshments at a local café before heading back to your hotel. (Duration: Full Day; Self-explore Activity; No Guide; No Transfers; Entrance Fees & Meals are not included)

A paradise for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, Nelson is blessed with breathtaking wooded hills, rocky headlands, and golden beaches. Boulder Bank, a dramatic eight-mile long natural rocky formation out at Nelson Haven, adds to the waterscape, and also has a lighthouse! Home to a vibrant creative community, the city is punctuated with a host of quirky landmarks. Visit the renowned World of Wearable Art & Classic Cars Museum that displays avant garde pieces and exotic automobiles under the same roof. Being one among New Zealand’s oldest settlements, Nelson’s Founders’ Heritage Park gives visitors an insight into the early European settlers in the region. Hike to the geographical center of New Zealand, which affords panoramic views over this coastal city surrounded by the Tasman Mountains and overlooking the serene Tasman Bay.

Enjoy a wonderful day cruising along the gorgeous Abel Tasman National Park. Get ready for an activity filled excursion of kayaking, swimming and bush walks, with a visit to the lovely Tonga Island Marine Reserve. After breakfast at your hotel, take an exclusive boat cruise to this beautiful nature reserve on the South Island. Spot penguin and seal colonies, schools of dolphins prancing in the crystal clear turquoise waters, and other marine life at Tonga Island, not to forget the spectacular beaches around the region. Relish an elegant luncheon spread aboard the exclusive cruise ship, washed down with refreshing local beer and some of New Zealand’s best wine. Enjoy kayaking and swimming, or trekking along the coast if you fancy a bit of adventure. (Duration: 6 hrs; Time of Day: 1000 hrs; Shared Activity; Meals included: Lunch, snacks and refreshments, including beer & wine; Fitness level: Moderate; Please share any food allergies in advance).

Enjoy delightful wildlife encounters, and crayfish delicacies at the dreamy coastal city of Kaikōura. Sitting on a dramatic peninsula, Kaikōura boasts a superb location between the snow capped Kaikōura mountain range and the Pacific Ocean. The Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, dotted with whaling sites and historic pā (Māori defensive terrace), offers stunning cliff top vistas from various viewpoints. Get up close to whales, fur seals, and dolphins in the coastal waters, or enjoy birdwatching tours and sheep shearing shows. The state-of-the-art Kaikōura Museum showcases the region’s diverse culture and is a hub of events and exhibitions. Located on the city’s outskirts is the Lavender Farm that cultivates over 50 varieties of lavender! One can experience the region’s pioneering whaling history at the pink Fyffe House, Kaikōura’s oldest surviving building!

Set sail into the waters of the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Kaikoura to watch dolphins in their natural habitat. These friendly mammals can be found in the coastal waters of Kaikoura all year round. Settle down in a comfortable spot on the boat that has been designed to ensure optimum viewing conditions. Watch the friendly dolphins indulge in acrobatics antics as they jump out of the water. Keep your camera ready to capture some stunning images of these beautiful marine animals in all their glory from vantage points on the boat. Listen to your tour guide explain how it is possible to interact with the amiable water creatures through a unique language that is a combination of singing and dolphin-like noises. (Duration: 3.5 hrs; Time of Day: 0530/0830/1230 hrs (Nov 1-Jan 31), 0530/0900/1230 hrs (Mar 1–Apr 30), 0800/1230 hrs (May 1-Oct 31); Shared Activity; Fitness Level: Easy. Please note that tours are dependent on weather conditions and times vary with season.)

The quaint harborside town of Akaroa sits tucked into the heart of an ancient volcano. With its Gallic vibe, this charming town continues to hold on to its roots as the country’s first French settlement. A popular stop on the cruise circuit, the town is replete with fine examples of colonial architecture, delightful galleries, and inviting cafes and restaurants. The many bays and sheltered harbor make Akaroa a promising destination for outdoor fun. From dolphin spotting boat tours to sea kayaking opportunities to visiting alpaca farms, there is never a dull moment here. Foodies can look forward savoring fresh seafood enhanced with ingredients such as olives, walnuts, and lemons that thrive in the rich volcanic soil and Mediterranean climate. Accompanied by fine local wines, these make for a flavorful gastronomical experience. Choose to stay in a traditional barn, a historic mansion, or at a winery to lend that unique touch to your holiday.