Via Kaikoura 7 Days Tour
Overview
This seven-day itinerary combines the grandeur of alpine Queenstown with the marine life of Kaikoura and the funky heritage city of Christchurch.
Highlights include whale and dolphin encounters, action and adventure in Queenstown and a day trip to Milford Sound.
Included
- Small-group tour (maximum of 19)
- Local well-trained driver/guide with certificated tour bus
- Pickup in Christchurch (9am) and drop-off in Queenstown on Day 7 (6pm)
- 6 nights 4Star Qualmark hotel with twin shares and cooked breakfast
- Admission Ticket:
-
- Whale Watch Kaikoura
- Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
- International Antarctic Centre
- Milford Sound Scenic Cruise
Itinerary
D1: Explore Christchurch
Tour Guide will pick you up at hotel around 9am.
Christchurch is the largest city in the Canterbury region and a gateway to the South Island. Spend your first day soaking up all the city has to offer from its compelling mix of elegant heritage buildings to the contemporary art centre and award-winning gardens. Trying punting down the Avon River or explore the city from above in a hot air balloon.
In the afternoon, take the opportunity to go further to Akaroa where offers a fascinating combination of French heritage and unique wildlife encounters.
D2: Christchurch to Akaroa
Duration: 2 h 45 min | 181 km via SH1
Head north towards Kaikoura, a beautiful coastal town known for its abundance of marine life and delicious seafood. On the way, stop and enjoy a long lunch to taste the local crayfish from which Kaikoura takes its name.
Few places in the world can boast such natural wonders as those offered in Kaikoura. A boat cruise – Whale Watch Kaikoura will get you up close to all kinds of marine mammals including several species whales, playful dolphins and untold marine birds. If you prefer dry land, the spectacular Peninsula Walkway is a great way to see seals sunbathing on the rocky coast.
D3: Kaikoura to Christchurch
Duration: 2 h 45 min | 181 km via SH1
On your way back to Christchurch today, stop and check out the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. This is one of the best places to see some of New Zealand’s rarest species up close, including tuatara, kiwi, kea and the very rare takahe. The International Antarctic Centre is also well worth a visit, with its exciting rides, fascinating stories and little blue penguin.
Alternatively, you can spend the afternoon exploring the inner city. Refurbished heritage trams will take you from attractions to designer shops and quirky cafes, or travel by foot and enjoy the enchanting street art scattered throughout the city.
D4: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
Duration: 2h50min| 230km via Hwy 79 & Hwy 1
After arrival at the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, the Hooker Valley Track is one of the finest half-day walks in the region. You’ll get to spot the peak of New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Mount Cook, across a glacial lake scattered with ice bergs by helicopter.
The deep blue depths of Lake Tekapo make this an irresistible stopover on your Mackenzie Country road trip. Make sure you step outside at night time to catch a glimpse of the spectacularly clear skies and bright stars.
D5: Lake Tekapo – Queenstown
Duration: 3hours | 255km via Hwy 8
Journey on to the grand alpine town of Queenstown, New Zealand’s most popular tourist destination.
Discover gold mining history in Arrowtown. Built during the gold rush, this charming town still bears the signs of its fascinating past. A highlight is the old Chinese mining village with its restored shelters offering a glimpse into early development in this area. Further east is the Gibbston Valley. This region is famous for its award-winning Pinot Noir and a great place for a winery tour.
Spend the day soaking up all this beautiful place has to offer. Explore stunning mountain scenery by bike, kayak, horse, 4WD Safari, or foot along one of the region’s many hiking trails.
Or if you’re feeling adventurous, choose from a huge selection of adrenaline activities from jetboating and bungy jumping to white-water rafting and skydiving.
D6: Queenstown – Milford Sound-Te Aanu
Duration: 3 h 45 min | 287 km (one way) via SH6 & SH94
CAUTION: Drive times vary greatly in winter.
Once described by Rudyard Kipling as the ‘eighth natural wonder of the world’, Milford Sound Scenic Cruise is a relaxing contrast to Queenstown. It takes a fair amount of time to get there but it’s worth it once you’re out on the water of the Sounds. Take a boat cruise or hire a kayak and soak in the magical blue skies, green mountains, crystal-clear water and tumbling waterfalls.
Alternatively, take a flightseeing tour, departing from Queenstown airport. For breaking up the trip, spend a night in Te Anau, where you can explore glowworm caves or hike one of Fiordland‘s many walking trails.
D7: Te Anau – Queenstown
Duration: 2 h 30min | 170km via Hwy 94 and Hwy 6
Spend your final day in Queenstown relaxing with gourmet food and wine and some boutique shopping. Visit Onsen hot pools for a luxurious spa treatment or play a round of golf at one of Queenstown’s world-class golf courses.
A gentle stroll around the lake is a nice way to soak up the alpine landscape before saying goodbye.
Group tour cancellation policy:
Learn more about Cancellation Policy.