Grand Pacific Tours 11 Day Ultimate Top of the South

On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink as you meet your travelling companions.

Staying in Hotel Sudima Christchurch City (2 nights)

• Being in the hub of the city means you are within walking distance from shopping, activities and attractions. At Sudima Christchurch City you will find the rooms reflect the New Zealand landscape with tones and textures to create a relaxed atmosphere. The Luxe rooms have been tastefully decorated and offers guests comfort and space with a plush bed, beautiful luxury linen and a New Zealand based artists' work features on the headboard for you to enjoy as you relax.

After an introductory city sights tour, enjoy a scenic drive to the historic French village of Akaroa, with time to wander through the charming galleries and craft stores. This afternoon set off on a Nature Cruise in the hope of spotting the rare Hector’s Dolphin and keep an eye out for penguins and other sea birds. Following your cruise, return to Christchurch where the evening is free to dine at one of the city’s many restaurants.

Staying in Hotel Sudima Christchurch City

• Being in the hub of the city means you are within walking distance from shopping, activities and attractions. At Sudima Christchurch City you will find the rooms reflect the New Zealand landscape with tones and textures to create a relaxed atmosphere. The Luxe rooms have been tastefully decorated and offers guests comfort and space with a plush bed, beautiful luxury linen and a New Zealand based artists' work features on the headboard for you to enjoy as you relax.

This morning board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. Travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges before descending through the Otira Tunnel to Moana, on the banks of picturesque Lake Brunner. Enjoy lunch at Kingfisher Restaurant, before travelling to the Brunner Mine Site, the location of the 1896 mine explosion. This afternoon in the coastal town of Hokitika, visit a local gallery, for the opportunity to pick up a gift or souvenir.

Staying in Hotel Beachfront Hotel Hokitika (Ocean View Room)

• This stunning Beachfront Hotel is uniquely located on the shores of the Tasman Sea and in the centre of Hokitika which puts beachcombing and shopping artisan galleries right off the doorstep.  You stay in the modern and luxurious Ocean view rooms which provide you with space, convenience and uninterrupted views of the beach.

Today, take in the natural beauty of the Hokitika Gorge on a short walk descending through the hardwood forest that will lead you to a swing bridge which crosses the Hokitika River. Continue north to Greymouth, home of Monteith’s Brewing Co. where you will sample locally brewed beers over lunch. This afternoon travel along the Great Coast Road to the world-famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Punakaiki (Beach View Room)

• Situated in Paparoa National Park just 300 meters from the magnificent Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, Scenic Hotel Punakaiki offers comfortable, environmentally friendly accommodation. Enjoy beach views, spacious & modern studio units with an ensuite. 

Journey north along the coast to Tauranga Bay and Cape Foulwind, named by Captain Cook in 1770 when he encountered nasty weather. A short walk along the rocky headland will showcase the rugged coastline and sea life often on show amongst the rocks. Travel inland via the Buller Gorge and Murchison to Nelson, one of the sunniest cities in New Zealand. This afternoon enjoy an orientation tour of the city followed by a visit to the Nelson Classic Car Museum where you will marvel at an incredible collection of iconic cars.

Staying in Hotel Rutherford Hotel (Premium Room) (2 nights)

• Rutherford Hotel Nelson is superbly located in central Nelson, with all of the amenities you would expect from a city only a short walk away.  You will be welcomed by a team dedicated to excellence in service and with the aim to exceed your expectations and create an atmosphere where you can be somewhere special.  The stylish and well-appointed Premium rooms come complete with the following features.

Travel to Kaiteriteri, gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park and join a cruise along the parks’ picturesque coastline. At Anchorage Bay, lunch will be served. Re-join your coach and depart for Nelson via the vineyards. This evening is free for you to dine at one of the local restaurants in town.

Staying in Hotel Rutherford Hotel (Premium Room)

• Rutherford Hotel Nelson is superbly located in central Nelson, with all of the amenities you would expect from a city only a short walk away.  You will be welcomed by a team dedicated to excellence in service and with the aim to exceed your expectations and create an atmosphere where you can be somewhere special.  The stylish and well-appointed Premium rooms come complete with the following features.

Today travel via Havelock and the wine-growing region of Marlborough. Visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, home to one of the largest private collections of WW1 Aircraft, brought to life in sets created by the internationally acclaimed WingNut Films and Weta Workshop. Head back into town where you will enjoy lunch at a local Blenheim beer garden before a short drive to Cloudy Bay Estate. Established in 1985, Cloudy Bay was one of the original wineries in the region. Enjoy a personalised tasting experience followed by time to wander through the superb, manicured grounds and towering gum trees, which will surely be a highlight.

Staying in Hotel Chateau Marlborough (2 nights)

• The Chateau Marlborough Hotel has been 100% locally owned and operated since the 1980's, with an amazing team here to welcome you to the only 5 star hotel at the top of the South Island. Chateau Marlborough is the perfect base for exploring this amazing region.

Enjoy a leisurely start to the day before travelling to Picton where time is available to explore this picturesque port. Board a luxury vessel at Picton Marina and cruise the spectacular Queen Charlotte Sound to Furneaux Lodge whilst enjoying the informative commentary on this stunning region. At Furneaux Lodge a delicious lunch will be served followed by time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. There is access to kayaks and short walks around the property. On the return cruise to Picton a cheese platter featuring local produce is served accompanied by a glass of Marlborough wine, the perfect end to your Marlborough Sounds adventure. Board the coach for the short journey back to Blenheim where the evening is free to dine at one of the local restaurants.

Staying in Hotel Chateau Marlborough

• The Chateau Marlborough Hotel has been 100% locally owned and operated since the 1980's, with an amazing team here to welcome you to the only 5 star hotel at the top of the South Island. Chateau Marlborough is the perfect base for exploring this amazing region.

Farewell the Marlborough region and journey to Kaikōura. Visit the Kaikōura Museum, which features an exhibition depicting the impact of the 2016 earthquake. This afternoon you may like to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the coastline to see the many species of whales that migrate through this area.

Staying in Hotel Sudima Kaikōura

• The Kaikōura District has some of the most breath-taking scenery in the country with a stunning coastline, a dramatic peninsula and some of the South Island’s highest mountains. With its superb location on the shoreline close to town, Sudima Kaikōura is blessed with stunning views of both the mountains and sea. This state-of-the-art new waterfront hotel has a 4.5 star rating with outstanding facilities. As always, you can expect that special Sudima service. They take care of the little things, so you’re all ready for a big day – of sightseeing.

Depart Kaikōura and head to Christchurch to visit the International Antarctic Centre, designed to provide an informative account of life in Antarctica. This evening reminisce on the memories shared with your new friends at the farewell dinner which includes selected beverages.

Staying in Hotel Sudima Christchurch City

• Being in the hub of the city means you are within walking distance from shopping, activities and attractions. At Sudima Christchurch City you will find the rooms reflect the New Zealand landscape with tones and textures to create a relaxed atmosphere. The Luxe rooms have been tastefully decorated and offers guests comfort and space with a plush bed, beautiful luxury linen and a New Zealand based artists' work features on the headboard for you to enjoy as you relax.

Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.