Stay : Northern itinerary in the South Island of the Kiwi archipelago
If you're thinking of touring the northern part of New Zealand'sSouth Island from Christchuch, get ready for an active vacation! The region lends itself to numerous activities in the heart of an exuberant natural environment. From the verdant West Coast to crystal-clear Abel Tasman Bay, not forgetting the superb Marlborough Sounds and Kaikour, you're sure to be spoilt for choice.
Summary of the stay
Best time to go
14 days
€€ - Charm and comfort
Where to stay - Christchurch ?
The map of your stay - Nouvelle-Zélande
Detail of the stay : Northern itinerary in the South Island of the Kiwi archipelago - 14 days
Day 1: Christchurch
Steps: Christchurch
Arriving in Christchurch, take a look at the city center and how post-earthquake reconstruction is progressing, then go shopping in Restart, the new shopping area.
Day 2: Rail travel via Arthur's Pass
Steps: Christchurch, Arthur'S Pass National Park, Greymouth
Departing from Christchurch, the train journey toArthur's Pass is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. The views from the converted carriages are magnificent. The train arrives in Greymouth in the early afternoon, just in time to rent a car. Welcome to the West Coast!
Day 3: West Coast
Steps: Westport, Paparoa National Park
Drive up the coast to Westport and stop off in Paparoa National Park to admire the famous Pancake Rocks. Take a day to relive the Jurassic period! With its hundreds of tree ferns and Nikau palms, the coast offers a unique spectacle.
Day 4: Buller Gorge
From Westport, take the road to Nelson and cross Buller Gorge. This is your chance to raft the rapids!
Day 5: Abel Tasman National Park - Day 1
Steps: Nelson, Abel Tasman National Park
From Nelson, head west to Abel Tasman National Park. Famous for its coastal path, turquoise coves and picture-postcard scenery, plan to alternate between walking and kayaking.
Day 6: Abel Tasman National Park - Day 2
Second day in Abel Tasman Bay. Kayaking day if you have opted for walking the day before, and vice versa.
Day 7: Golden Bay
Steps: Collingwood, Motueka, Takaka
Continue westwards and immerse yourself in the bohemian ambience of Golden Bay, browse the Takaka or Motueka markets and let yourself be carried away to Farewell Spit and Wharariki Beach.
WHARARIKI BEACH
Day 8: Nelson
Steps: Nelson
Head east this time, to Nelson, for a day in the city. Visit the many art galleries and stroll the sunny streets of this pleasant urban center.
Day 9: Marlborough Sounds
Steps: Picton
Back to the Marlborough Sounds, near Picton. The sublime Sounds, with their emerald waters, are made up of a myriad of islands and inlets. Plan a relaxing day's sailing through the string of islands.
Day 10: Kaikoura - Day 1
Steps: Kaikoura
Head for Kaikoura, the ideal observation point for local wildlife. On the agenda: another trip out to sea to observe sperm whales, then a walk to reach the impressive colony of fur seals. On the way, plan a stop at the open-air stall serving delicious lobsters at very good prices!
Day 11: Kaikoura - day 2
A new day in this beautiful region. Day walk or kayak, or both!
Day 12: New stopover in Christchurch
Steps: Wellington, Christchurch
Back to Christchurch for a day's shopping. Find the latest gift that will please, stroll through the Botanic Garden.
BOTANICAL GARDENS
Day 13: Akaroa
It's high time to relax! Akaroa seems the ideal place for it. Return to the sumptuous Banks Peninsula. Take advantage of the many short hikes and climb aboard a boat to meet the world's rarest dolphin, Hector's dolphin and the little blue penguin. If you're feeling sporty, rent a kayak at the Adventure Centre (on the beach)!
PLAGE
Day 14: Return to Christchurch
Steps: Christchurch
Relaxation and sports morning before you reach Christchurch for the latest preparations before departure.
How to get there - Christchurch
Book your activity - Christchurch
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