Day 1: Christchurch to Blenheim via Lochmara
Haere Mai and Welcome! Prepare for an early start this morning, as you make your way to the Christchurch Train station for 6.30 am. Here you’ll jump on board the magnificent Coastal Pacific and journey up to the top of the South Island in luxury, soaking up the gorgeous scenery en-route.
The Coastal Pacific Train sector is not guided by Kirra. Your guide will meet you in Picton after an amazing morning on the Coastal Pacific Train.
Arriving in the picturesque seaside town of Picton, you’ll take a water taxi to Lochmara Lodge. The lodge is nestled in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds, which make up 25% of New Zealand’s coastline.
Enjoy a walk around the beautiful surrounding area before indulging in some refreshments and nibbles afterwards. We’ll then head to our accommodation for the evening, Chateau Marlborough, where you can enjoy a delicious group dinner
Day 2: Blenheim to Nelson
After breakfast this morning, you’ll take a guided tour around the Omaka Museum and relive the magical early days of aviation. The museum has had influence and support from Peter Jacskon and is an absolute must-see! Arriving at our destination mid-afternoon, the coach will take you on a scenic drive along the seaside. This evening there’s plenty of time to relax, explore the area and the option to taste some of Nelson’s fine local beverages.
Day 3: Abel Tasman National Park
Travel to the seaside resort town of Kaiteriteri and spend the morning cruising the stunning Abel Tasman National Park – a coastal paradise known for its golden sand beaches. See the iconic Split Apple Rock and call in to the most popular beaches along the coastline as you sail up to Totaranui and back. This afternoon we’ll take the scenic route and arrive back in Nelson mid-afternoon.
Day 4: Nelson to Karamea
This morning we’ll travel through the Buller Gorge, home of New Zealand’s longest swing bridge. We’ll stop off at Westport, where we’ll have lunch before heading to Karamea, right at the northern end of the west coast of the South Island. You won’t be able to tear your eyes away from the views of the Tasman coast, river valleys, lush rainforest and untouched mountain ranges. Tonight we’ll stay at the Last Resort, a locally-owned, secluded eco lodge right on the coast and completely off the beaten track.
Day 5: Karamea to Christchurch via Greymouth
Gaze at untamed beaches and spectacular rainforest as we drive down the incredibly scenic ‘wild’ West Coast. We’ll stop at Cape Foulwind to visit the fur seal breeding colony before stopping shortly after at the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes to take a walk around these fascinating geological formations. We’ll then drive through to Greymouth, a historic town known for jade hunting, gold mining and dramatic river floods. Here you’ll catch the Tranzalpine train. Considered to be one of the world’s greatest train journeys, prepare to be blown away by these epic vistas of forests, plains and mountains as you travel through to Christchurch, the last stop of your tour. We hope you leave with many happy memories of your trip with us.
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