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Day 1 Christchurch - Blenheim

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 Blenheim. On arrival uplift your rental car. This afternoon explore the regions finest vineyards.

Alternatively –

Day 1 Wellington - Picton - Blenheim

Depart 9:30 am.
Cross Cook Strait on the Interislander and cruise through the flooded valleys of the Marlborough Sounds. Disembarking at Picton uplift your rental car and continue on a few kilometres to Blenheim.

Day 2 Blenheim -  Nelson

Departing Blenheim traverse the Richmond Ranges to reach Tasman Bay and Nelson, New Zealand’s sunniest city. The afternoon is free to explore the region. Sightseeing may include a visit to the new Wareable Art Museum, the City's beaches or the many craft and art stores.

Day 3 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 climb over the Takaka Hill to reach the settlement of Collingwood.

Note: due to tidal requirements the order of days 2 & 3 may be altered

Day 4 Farewell Spit Excursion

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.

Day 5 Collingwood - Punakaiki

Retrace you travels over Takaka Hill. From Motueka follow the Motueka River and ascend Hope Saddle, view the peaks of Nelson Lakes National Park. Pass through Murchison with its hills still scarred by the devastating 1929 earthquake. Following the banks of the Buller Gorge drive beneath cliffs, that in places overhang the highway, to Westport. Drive south hugging the deserted rugged coastline to Punakaiki with its famous blow holes. The afternoon time allows you to explore the region with semi-tropical palms.

Day 6 Punakaiki - Hokitika - Christchurch

This morning we suggest a visit to Hokitika. Discover the charms of this historic gold rush town. A cruise through the rain forest wildernress of Lake Mahinpahua is recommended. Return to Greymouth. Board the Tranz Alpine and climb to arrive at Arthur's Pass in the heart of the Southern Alps. Follow the banks of the Waimakariri River and descend onto the Canterbury Plains before arriving Christchurch.

Marlborough Vineyards

Farewell Spit

Holiday Add Ons (click on the fern)
	Whalewatching
	Christchurch Overnight & Sightseeing
	Farmstay

Prices are valid until 30 September 2008