Your holiday package includes:

• Return economy class flight to Christchurch
• 9 day car hire of a Suzuki Swift or similar, Christchurch Airport to Greymouth
• 3 nights accommodation in Christchurch
• Christchurch Tram & Punting on the Avon Combo
• Full Day Christchurch Garden Tour
• 1 night accommodation at Hamner Springs
• Entry to Iron Ridge Sculpture Park
• 1 night accommodation at Kaikoura
• 2 nights accommodation in Nelson
• Abel Tasman Sailing with lunch
• 1 night accommodation in Punaikaki
• TranzAlpine Rail Journey from Greymouth to Christchurch
• 1 night accommodation in Christchurch

***Rate is based on twin share for travel 1 to 10 September 2023***

***Alternative dates available between 1 February and 30 September 2023, a surcharge may apply***

Itinerary

Day 1: Christchurch, The Garden City
Upon arrival at Christchurch, collect your car and make your way to your accommodation.

Day 2: Christchurch
this morning you will be collected at your hotel and embark on a small group guided Garden Tour. Spend the day visiting some of Christchurch’s best gardens such as the formal garden of Ohinetahi, the exceptionally designed Broadfield Landscape Garden and the peaceful surroundings of Mona Vale Gardens.

Day 3: Christchurch
journey in style through the changing face of Christchurch’s city centre onboard a beautifully restored heritage Tram and then relax and see the Botanic Gardens from a fresh perspective onboard a tranquil 30 minute punt ride as you peacefully drift past the flourishing flora that Christchurch is so famous for.

Day 4: Christchurch to Hurunui
Upon check out, head north towards the thermal hot springs town of Hamner Springs, located in the charming region of Hurunui.

Day 5: Hurunui to Kaikoura
Rise early for a day of exploring the stunning North Canterbury region. Take the short drive to Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park, which is perfectly set overlooking the Waipara River Valley, Once an old abandoned limestone quarry, this magical landscape h been transformed into an impressive display of different sculptures.

Day 6: Kaikoura to Nelson
The drive from Kaikoura to Nelson offers the perfect blend of coastline and scenic mountains, allowing for multiple photo opportunities.

Day 7: Abel Tasman National Park
Embark on an epic sailing journey to the stunning Abel Tasman National Park.

Day 8: Nelson to Punakaiki
Begin the journey to New Zealand’s wild West Coast. Enjoy an overnight stay in Punukaiki, home to the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes in Paparoa National Park.

Day 9: TranzAlpine to Christchurch
Today you will make your way to Greymouth and drop off your hire car at the Railway Station before your rail journey back to Christchurch. Embrace the romance of rail and explore the Southern Alps aboard the TranzAlpine Train. Traverse the patchwork paddocks of the vast Canterbury Plains and wind along the walls of the Waimakariri River Valley.

Day 10: Depart Christchurch
Check out of your hotel for your journey home.

Tour Details

Full Day Christchurch Garden Tour
Explore the garden city of Christchurch. This tour visits two private gardens and two public gardens, including a ride on the famous caterpillar at the botanical gardens. You will see spectacular colour, intriguing sculptures, and memorial plantings. We head towards the Port Hills which overlook Christchurch and present stunning views of the city, Canterbury Plains, Lyttleton Harbour and the distant Southern Alps. After dropping into Lyttleton Harbour you will have time explore a private Garden which has been growing since 1865 & include a great variety of exotic trees, shrub rhododendrons and camellias. Head over the crater rim to another private garden which has a strong New Zealand theme and a largely formal layout. Head towards Christchurch city stopping for a relaxing lunch, then visit the Botanical Gardens including a ride on the famous and informative Caterpillar, here you will see exotic trees that are some of the largest, the tallest or the oldest of their kind in New Zealand.

Christchurch Tram & Punting on the Avon Combo
See the central city by river and rail with our Tram & Punt combo – two of Christchurch’s most well-known activities. An iconic Christchurch attraction not to be missed, relax on board an informative punt ride and see the city from a different perspective. Sink back and admire the picturesque Botanic Gardens or glide through the evolving central city as your classically attired punter poles you quietly along the river on this eco-friendly activity.

Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park
Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park is set in the stunning North Canterbury landscape overlooking the Waipara River Valley. Many artworks both large and small are on display throughout the park. A magical place, full of intrigue and beauty. Over twenty years of hard toil by Sculptor Raymond Herber has transformed this old abandoned Limestone quarry into a huge stunning exhibition space like no other. On display are many different sculptures from amusing kinetic works through to giant steel and stainless steel pieces that are sure to impress. The property has been planted in native plants and trees creating a perfect setting for people to come and picnic and enjoy the artworks. Iron Ridge Quarry is a perfect destination for groups and Raymond will treat larger pre-booked tours to an entertaining forging demonstration in his workshop. The property is perfect for all ages, so come and share in the beauty that is Iron Ridge Quarry. Art and nature in harmony.

Abel Tasman Sailing with lunch
Either chill out and relax, get involved in the sailing or learn as you go - you decide!  Experience some great sailing, enjoy some stunning beaches and islands, with a full hour to enjoy your lunch and relax on Anchorage Beach.  A great opportunity to go swimming or take a short walk and explore the caves. Visit the Fur Seal Colony, Split Apple Rock, and much more on your return to Kaiteriteri Beach - see all the Abel Tasman National Park highlights on this tour!

TranzAlpine Rail Journey
Explore the Southern Alps aboard the TranzAlpine train - one of the world's great train journeys, covering 223 kilometres (139 miles) one-way and taking just under 5 hours. Our TranzAlpine train travels coast-to-coast through the 'Great Divide' and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand's South Island. On the east, enjoy relaxing in the garden city of Christchurch and horse trekking into the mountains from Springfield. On the west, experience the tranquillity of Lake Brunner and venture into glacier country from Greymouth. At the centre, explore some great NZ mountain hikes at Arthur's Pass.