Arrive into Christchurch airport picking up car hire before heading north to Hanmer Springs.You may like to visit the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve only 5 mins drive from the airport where you can view NZ’s largest & most accessible kiwi viewing area. Alternatively visit the International Antarctic Centre (located at the airport) where visitors can view Little Blue Penguins, ride in an Antarctic all‐terrain vehicle, experience an Antarctic ice storm and much more. Hanmer Springs is a charming alpine spa village just 90 minutes north of Christchurch, and the perfect spot for a little indulgence, rejuvenation or adventure. Soak in natural hot pools, explore 50 kms of mountain bike and nature trails, enjoy gourmet dining or even try your hand at a round of golf. At the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa you can enjoy a variety of thermal pools including sulphur and rock pools with temperatures between 36 ‐ 42°C. Children are catered for in their own area with a family activity pool featuring water toys and waterslides.

Travelling Time: approx 1 hour 30 minutes drive

Accommodation: Hanmer Inn Motel, Hanmer Springs

Located on a rocky peninsula nestled beneath stunning mountain scenery, Kaikoura is famous for it’s complex marine system which attracts an abundant habitat for marine mammals, including whales, dolphins & seabirds. Several different species of whale can be seen off Kaikoura at different times of the year, but almost always the huge sperm whales. The orca is often sighted in Kaikoura, and schools of pilot whales are occasional visitors. Dusky dolphins and fur seals are plentiful. Whale Watch Kaikoura is New Zealand's only marine‐based whale watching company offering visitors an exciting up‐close encounter with the Giant Sperm Whale all year round. This is a very popular experience so early booking is recommended. You may also like to take a swim with the dolphins, visiting pods of between 100-1000 dolphins!

Travelling Time: approx 2 hours drive

Accommodation: Admiral Creighton B&B, Kaikoura

Marlborough wowed the world with Sauvignon Blanc, putting New Zealand wine on the world stage. Home to 142 wineries from many well known international brands as well as small boutique family producers the region produces many award winning aromatics, pinot noir and sparkling wines. There are 43 cellar doors to choose from! Blenheim is Marlborough’s largest town and is an ideal base for those wanting to explore the local wine and food culture. Picton, Marlborough’s second biggest centre is a beautiful seaside town offering great shopping, a gorgeous waterfront, delicious food and wine at the many cafes and more active pursuits such as cruising, fishing, sea kayaking, dolphin watching or walking on the famous Queen Charlotte Track.

Travelling Time: approx 1 hour 45 minutes drive

Accommodation: Chateau Marlborough

Located at the top of the South Island Nelson boasts one of the sunniest climates in New Zealand. The regions landscape covers wide plains, rivers, golden sandy beaches, hills and mountains. There are more working artists in Nelson than any other region, it is the country’s eighth largest wine region, and is home to three National Parks. Weekly markets offering high quality local produce & artwork take place around the region.

Travelling Time: approx 2 hours drive

Accommodation: Warwick House B&B, Nelson

A day exploring the Abel Tasman National Park is a must for visitors, and for those with more time you may also wish to explore this coastline by sea kayak or guided walk.

Overnight accommodation: Warwick House B&B, Nelson

From Nelson, you may wish to fly back to Christchurch with Air New Zealand (flight time approx 50 minutes) or alternatively drive down through the stunning scenery of the Lewis Pass. In the heart of the Southern Alps, the Maruia Springs Thermal Resort offers natural hot spring pools in a natural thermal setting within a sheltered valley in the Lewis Pass. This is an ideal lunch stop before driving further south to Christchurch.

Travelling Time: approx 5 hours 30 minutes drive

Flights are also available from Nelson to Auckland (1 hour 20 minutes), or Christchurch to Auckland (1 hour 20 minutes).