9-Day The South Island Wine, Beaches and Bay

New Zealand
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Inclusions

SAVE up to $250* when booking with your Travel Expert.
8 Day Economy car hire - pick up Christchurch Airport, drop off Christchurch Airport.
Christchurch 1 night accommodation at the 4-star Rydges Latimer Christchurch.
Christchurch to Kaikoura 1 night accommodation at the 4-star Bella Vista Kaikoura.
Kaikoura to Blenheim 2 nights accommodation at the 4-star Scenic Hotel Marlborough.
Why not add a Sip Marlborough Wine Tour from an extra $112 per person*.
Blenheim to Nelson 2 nights accommodation at the 3-star Chelsea Motor Lodge in Nelson.
Why not add a Astrolabe Beaches and Bays tour with Abel Tasman Sea Shuttles from an extra $108 per person*.
Nelson to Hanmer Springs 2 nights accommodation at the 4-star Hanmer Springs Hotel.
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pool Entry.
Marlborough The Heart of World-Class Sauvignon Blanc - Experience the exceptional taste of New Zealand's finest wines, crafted in Marlborough's sun-soaked vineyards, where great wine meets stunning landscapes.
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools Relax and unwind in the soothing, mineral-rich hot springs, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views for the ultimate rejuvenating escape.
Abel Tasman Explore the crystal-clear waters and golden beaches of Abel Tasman National Park with personalized, seamless sea shuttle tours that bring you closer to nature's most spectacular coastline.
PLUS add Comprehensive Travel Insurance and SAVE $500* per booking in-store with Bundle + Save

The accommodation

Uncover the culinary, wildlife and urban highlights of Aotearoa New Zealand's South Island on this 9-day self-drive itinerary. In partnership with Warner Bros' and Mojang Studios to celebrate the release of "A Minecraft Movie", New Zealand has created a world-first destination DLC (downloadable content) for Minecraft. But why stop at crafting in-game when you can experience real-life adventures like sampling world-class Sauvignon Blanc in Marlborough or soaking in a thermal hot pool at Hanmer Springs.

Day 1 Christchurch

Begin your South Island adventure in Otautahi Christchurch, the gateway to the Canterbury region with a blend of historic and modern architecture and natural attractions on the city's doorstep. Check into your hotel before exploring what the city has to offer.

Stroll through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, take a relaxing punt ride along the Avon River, or visit the local museum to uncover the region's rich history. If time allows, ride the gondola up to the Port Hills for panoramic views of the city and beyond. In the evening, explore the abundant dining scene at Riverside Market, where local eateries showcase the best of Canterbury's produce.

Stay 1 night in Christchurch.

Canterbury
Day 2 Christchurch to Kaikoura (180km)

Depart Christchurch and head north along the scenic coastal route to Kaikoura, a haven for marine life. Check into your accommodation and soak in the stunning views of the rugged coastline and snow-capped mountains.

Kaikoura is the home to exceptional whale-watching opportunities, with sperm whales frequently seen year-round. Join a guided boat tour to witness these majestic creatures up close or take to the skies on a scenic flight for a bird's-eye view of the marine ecosystem. For a land-based adventure, stroll along the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway, which offers spectacular views and encounters with fur seals basking on the rocks. Remember to always stay at least 20 metres away from seals at all times.

And be sure to dine on the region's famous fresh kai moana (seafood). Nins Bins is a popular roadside caravan selling fresh, locally caught seafood including crayfish

Stay 1 night in Kaikoura.

Kaikoura

Day 3 - 4 Kaikoura to Blenheim (128km)

Travel north to Blenheim, in the heart of the Marlborough wine region, known for producing world-renowned Sauvignon Blanc.

After checking into your hotel for two nights, why not embark on a Sip Marlborough Wine Tour with the Marlborough Tour Company. Over an afternoon, be taken through some of the region's best vineyards, where you can sample award-winning wines and learn about the unique terrain that makes Marlborough's wine exceptional.

Spend the afternoon exploring Blenheim's charming town centre, filled with independent shops and gastronomic delights like Frank's Oyster Bay & Eatery for the local, seasonal fare including seafood and wild meats. If time allows, take a short drive to the region's world-class aviation museum, which houses an impressive collection of World War I and II aircraft, brought to life through cinematic storytelling.

Stay 2 nights in Blenheim.

Blenheim

Day 5 - 6 Blenheim to Nelson (118km)

Depart Blenheim and make your way to Nelson, a region renowned for its high sunshine hours, stunning landscapes and vibrant arts scene. Check into your hotel and explore Nelson's lively centre, where galleries and boutique stores showcase local craftsmanship.

The next day, venture into the spectacular Abel Tasman National Park. Why not enjoy a Beaches & Bay tour with Abel Tasman Sea Shuttles which includes a scenic cruise before being dropped off at a golden-sand bay for a walk where you can soak up breathtaking coastal and forest views.

Nelson is also home to a fantastic food and craft beer scene, so take the opportunity to dine at one of the local restaurants, where farm-to-table produce is paired with award-winning regional wines. The Boat Shed Cafe is an overwater restaurant with a seasonally driven menu celebrating New Zealand produce.

Stay 2 nights in Nelson.

Day 7 - 8 Nelson to Hanmer Springs (300km)

Journey south to Hanmer Springs, an alpine retreat known for its geothermal hot pools and adventure activities. Check into your accommodation and unwind in the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, a haven of relaxation amidst stunning mountain scenery.

For those seeking adventure, Hanmer Springs offers jet boating, bungy jumping, and scenic hiking trails through native forests. Visit the Hanmer Springs Forest Park for an immersive nature experience or take a leisurely cycle through the town's picturesque surroundings before dining at Monteith's Brewery Bar, a family-friendly venue located opposite the famous hot pools.

Hanmer Springs' independent shops and cosy cafes make for a relaxing afternoon before your final drive back to Christchurch.

Stay 2 nights in Hanmer Springs.

Day 9 Hanmer Springs to Christchurch (133km)

Make your way back to Christchurch airport to return your hire car and depart home or continue your journey to explore more of what New Zealand has to offer.

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