South Island : Marine wildlife, Beaches
and Hiking
Start your holiday by stopping in Kaikoura, world famous for its marine wildlife. You’ll have the opportunity to see whales and swim with Hector dolphins and sea lions. Continue to the northern tip of the South Island to explore the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park. This national park is considered one of the finest in the country because of its diversity and contrast of colours and beautiful deserted beaches. You’ll then descend via the west coast through the famous "pancake rocks" of Punakaiki. You’ll leave the wild beaches of the west coast to join the Canterbury Plains through the famous Arthur Pass.
Campground prices are based on two people + motorhome on a powered site.
Stage 1 : Christchurch
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You pick up your campervan and hit the road to the city centre. Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island, and is slowly being rebuilt after a strong earthquake in 2012. Despite this, visitors are always welcome and we encourage you to stay at least one night to visit surrounding areas such as Sumner (a family resort) and the small village of Akaroa on Banks Peninsula, both of these can be done in one day. Camping: All Seasons Holiday Park : powered site, $38 per night |
To Do: Visit the beaches of Sumner Bay, explore Banks Peninsula, in Christchurch visit the Antarctica Centre and the art galleries.
Stage 2 : Christchurch - Kaikoura
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Kaikoura is one of the most beautiful regions of the country. Snowy capped mountains overlook the ocean and its beautiful rugged coastline has seals and sea lions basking in the sun. The waters of the ocean here support a unique eco-system where whales, dolphins, seals and albatross feed. Speaking of food be sure to stop at one of the caravans along the road to Kaikoura and enjoy freshly cooked lobster the Kiwi way. Camping: Kaikoura Alpine-Pacific Holiday Park : avec électricité $40 per nuit |
To Do: Swim with Hector dolphins or sea lions or see whales up close, hike the Kaikoura Coast Track and don’t miss the lobster in the village or small roadside caravans, a real treat.
Stage 3 : Kaikoura - Abel Tasman National Park
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Continue your journey towards Blenheim, known for its array of vineyards and world-class wines, then head to Abel Tasman National Park, considered one of the most beautiful parks in New Zealand. Enjoy the contrast of the colours of the tropical rainforest, white sandy beaches and turquoise waters of the Tasman Sea. Hiking, kayaking, boating and relaxing on the beach, are just some activities you can do during your stay. Camping: Motueka Top 10 Holiday Park : powered site, $45 per night |
To Do: Swim with sea lions, explore the park on foot, go on an eco-Safari on Farewell Spit and explore the National Park by kayak or catamaran.
Stage 4: Abel Tasman National Park - Punakaiki (the West Coast)
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Leaving the Abel Tasman is never easy but the west coast is full of surprises. Here you’ll discover a rugged landscape with dense subtropical vegetation, wild beaches and an unleashed sea, as well as a very small population. This is New Zealand at its purest! Along this coast Punakaiki attracts travellers for its natural sculptures, the famous "Pancake Rocks" formed by the erosion from the sea, rain and rivers. Camping: Punakaiki Beach Camp: powered site, $31 per night |
To Do: Visit the Pancake Rocks, walks in the subtropical forest, canoe on the Pororari River.
Stage 5 : Punakaiki - Christchurch
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This step takes you through the famous Arthur’s Pass from the wild, rough West Coast, through to the East Coast to the Great Plains of Canterbury. This Scenic Route is extremely popular, and also follows the route of the TranzAlpine train. Finally you’ll arrive in Christchurch where you drop-off your campervan. Depending on what time your flight leaves, you’ll stay a night in Christchurch or head directly to the airport. Camping: All Seasons Holiday Park : powered site, $38 per night |
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Top 10 activities
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CONTACT USAddress: Unit 5, 3091 Great North Rd,New Lynn, Auckland 0600 New Zealand Tel: +64 9 827 8525  info@detournz.com |
