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Tour Details . . .
Wellington to Christchurch
or
Christchurch to Christchurch
Departs Daily
7 Days from $NZ 1495
See
Costs below
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Highlights . . .
Marlborough Sounds
Nelson
Abel Tasman Nat. Park
Farewell Spit Excursion
Westport Sightseeing
Greymouth Heritage Trail tour
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Day 1 Christchurch - Picton - Nelson
Depart 7.30 am.
The Coastal Pacific train skirts the Hundalee
Hills to join the coast near Kaikoura: famous for its crayfish [lobster]
and whale watching. Continue along the rugged seashore prior to
passing through the wine producing Wairau Valley to arrive Picton.
Departing Picton traverse the Richmond Ranges to reach Tasman Bay
and Nelson, New Zealand’s sunniest city. The balance of the
day will be free.
Alternatively
Day 1 Wellington - Picton - Nelson
Depart 9:30 am.
Cross Cook Strait on the Interislander and cruise
through the flooded valleys of the Marlborough Sounds. Disembarking
at Picton, the afternoon itinerary will be as above.
Day 2 Nelson - Abel Tasman - National Park
- Collingwood
Travel to Motueka and board the launch “Abel
Tasman Explorer”. Cruise past golden sand beaches, luxuriant
native bush and view the abundant sea life. Take an optional beach
walk or just relax on board the vessel. Farewell the launch and
continue on by coach to Collingwood. Lunch is included
Day 3 Farewell Spit
This morning take the 35 kilometre excursion along
the golden sands of Farewell Spit. This sanctuary for innumerable
sea birds is one of New Zealand most prominent geological features.
Note: tour departure times are governed by
the tide
Day 4 Collingwood - Nelson
This morning retrace your travels to Nelson. The
afternoon will be free to explore one of New Zealand's sunniest
and most desired city's with its eclectic art and craft stores,
Wearable Arts Museum, beautiful beaches and award winning restaurants.
Day 5 Nelson - Westport
Ascend Hope Saddle, view the peaks of Nelson Lakes
National Park. Pass through Murchison with its hills scarred by
the devastating 1929 earthquake. Following the banks of the Buller
Gorge drive beneath cliffs, that in places overhang the highway,
to Westport. This afternoon visit the Cape Foulwind seal colony,
discover the relics of Westport’s mining history and follow
pioneering trails as we ascend Mt. Williams.
Day 6 Westport - Greymouth
Late morning depart Westport. Drive south hugging
the deserted rugged coastline to Punakaiki where a visit to the
famous blow holes is made before arriving in Greymouth. This afternoon
experience the way "Coasters" view the world during your
heritage tour of the Grey District. Explore the historic Brunner
Mine site and hear the stories of the miners exploits while enjoying
a relaxing ale (should you wish).
Day 7 Greymouth - Christchurch
This morning is free to explore Greymouth. Suggested
sights include an excursion to nearby Shanty Town. Board the the
TranzAlpine train and climb to Arthurs Pass in the heart of the
Southern Alps. Follow the banks of the Waimakariri River and descend
onto the Canterbury Plains before arriving Christchurch. Arrive
approximately 6.05pm
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