Price pp from:

$6,896
Scenic lake with green mountains and forests under a blue sky with clouds. Credit: New Zealand Fine Touring
Adventure

Top of the South Island National Parks

Christchurch

Christchurch

12 days, 11 nights

Road Trips

From: $6,896 pp

Trip overview

Experience the captivating blend of natural beauty and comfort on this 12-day self-drive adventure across the upper South Island. From the marine wonders of Kaikōura, where you can respectfully watch the majestic whales, to the world-renowned Sauvignon Blanc vineyards of Marlborough, this journey is full of delight. You will enjoy the stunning coastal drive into Abel Tasman National Park and cross the Southern Alps via the dramatic Arthur’s Pass. Designed for travellers who appreciate boutique stays and the freedom of moving at their own pace, this is the perfect way to explore the South Island's spectacular northern parks in comfort and style.

Trip highlights & inclusions

12 days / 11 nights
11 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners

Christchurch

Christchurch

Boutique Lodges & Hotels
Rental car included
  • 30 Minute Whale Watch Explorer with Wings over Whales Kaikoura
  • Half Day Marlborough Wine Tour
  • Abel Tasman 3 day Guided Kayak and Walking Trip

Make an enquiry about this trip or build a custom quote

Price pp from

$6,896

Why Discover New Zealand

  • Wānaka-based specialists planning your trip from inside New Zealand.
  • One travel specialist to plan and book every detail from start to finish.
  • 24/7 in-country support while you’re travelling, so help is close if plans change.

Trip itinerary

Welcome to Christchurch City

New Zealand's garden city is steadily being transformed into a vibrant urban destination. Encompassing a large green belt, it is known for its wide tree lined avenues and lush gardens. A great way to explore the city or easy way to see the sights or ride the historic trams across town to the renowned botanic gardens and the unique cardboard Transitional Cathedral, that's right it is built of cardboard!

People sitting on concrete steps by a river with modern buildings and a blue tram in the background. Credit: New Zealand Fine Touring

Accommodation

Front view of Merivale Manor House with balcony, veranda, trees, and garden on a sunny day. Credit: Merivale Manor House - Christchurch
Merivale Manor House

Activities

Trip highlights

An aerial view of a small Wings Over Whales plane flying over two sperm whales swimming at the surface of the deep blue ocean. Credit: Wings over Whales NZ

30 Minute Whale Watch Explorer with Wings over Whales Kaikoura

Couple walking with picnic basket through green vineyard on sunny day Credit: Sounds Connection

Half Day Marlborough Wine Tour

Four people kayaking in red and yellow kayaks on clear turquoise water beside a beach and forest. Credit: Wilsons Abel Tasman National Park

Abel Tasman 3 day Guided Kayak and Walking Trip

Additional inclusions

Private Transfer Christchurch International Airport to Christchurch Accommodation

24/7 support from the moment you arrive to the moment you depart

Talk to a local travel specialist. Enquire