South Island Beach Escape overview [ID: 2304]

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South Island Beach Escape

8 Days

Starts: Christchurch

Finishes: Christchurch

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This 8 day tour starts in Christchurch and finishes in Christchurch.

Begin your adventure in Christchurch. Famous for its heritage, you can explore this city by Tram, Punt, or Gondola! In the morning, board the Coastal Pacific Train for a scenic coastal journey north to Kaikoura, a town renowned for its year-round presence of abundant marine life. Don't miss out, be sure to indulge in some fresh seafood while you're here! While in Kaikoura, get up close and personal with the coast and local wildlife on a magical swimming encounter with dusky dolphins. You'll be taken out on the catamaran, and swim in the ocean with these magnificent mammals in their natural habitat. The following morning, you'll again board the Coastal Pacific Train for a shorter leg to Picton, home to the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound. Spend your first afternoon here exploring this coastal city, or opt for a dolphin cruise in the Marlborough Sound. On day two in Picton, get ready for a full-day adventure with Wilderness Guides on a guided walk in Queen Charlotte Sound. Your informative local guide will talk about the European and Māori history of the area as well as provide detailed information on the flora and fauna you encounter along the way. Next up is a comfortable coach ride to Nelson, known for its endless sunshine hours and beautiful mountain and ocean vistas. Spend the first evening in Nelson exploring, and relishing in your journey thus far, as the next day brings a tour of the famous Abel Tasman National Park. During this tour, you will be strolling golden sand beaches, walking and exploring the natural wonderland of Abel Tasman National Park. You will enjoy stunning views and informative commentary on the Maori history of the area, as well as the rich variety of vegetation, birds, and aquatic life. The next day, your adventure draws to an end back to where you started in Christchurch. Spend your final evening here relaxing and soaking up all of the magical coastal experiences you've had, and even explore the Botanical Gardens. The following morning you are transported to the airport for departure. Haere rā!

This tour also features:

Included activity: Private transfer Christchurch Domestic Airport to your accommodation

Included activity: Christchurch Triple Pass - Tram, Punting and Gondola

Included activity: The Visitor Promise - Cultural Learning Course

Included activity: Private transfer accommodation to Christchurch Train Station with Christchurch Touring

Included activity: Coastal Pacific Train: Christchurch to Kaikoura

Included activity: Swimming with the Dolphins with Encounter Kaikoura

Included activity: Coastal Pacific Train: Kaikoura to Picton

Included activity: Full Day Guided Walk in Queen Charlotte Sound with Wilderness Guides - Lunch Included

Included activity: Picton to Nelson by Intercity Coach

Included activity: Private Transfer

Included activity: Abel Tasman Water and Walk Tour with Wine, Art & Wilderness - Lunch Included

Included activity: Nelson to Christchurch via Blenheim by Intercity Coach

Included activity: Private transfer Lichfield Street Bus Station to your accommodation with Christchurch Touring

Included activity: Christchurch Botanic Gardens tour

Included activity: Private Transfer from Christchurch Accommodation to Christchurch International Airport with Christchurch Touring Company

5 breakfasts, 2 lunches

Itinerary summary for: South Island Beach Escape

Day 1: Kia Ora! Arrive to Christchurch and Explore the City
Accommodation: Sudima Christchurch City

Day 2: Climb Aboard the Coastal Pacific Train and Arrive in Kaikoura
Accommodation: Sudima Hotel Kaikōura

Day 3: All Aboard the Coastal Pacific Train to Picton
Accommodation: Edit Picton

Day 4: Soak up the Coast at Queen Charlotte Sound
Accommodation: Edit Picton

Day 5: Welcome to Nelson
Accommodation: Rutherford Hotel Nelson

Day 6: Discover the Beauty of Abel Tasman National Park
Accommodation: Rutherford Hotel Nelson

Day 7: Final Evening in Christchurch
Accommodation: Sudima Christchurch City

Day 8: Haere rā, Depart Christchurch

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Itinerary summary for: South Island Beach Escape