Rejuvenate
With its wild untouched vistas and relaxed pace of life, the top of the south is the optimal place to get off the grid, explore and re-set your priorities. This 12-day tour is the ideal way to slow down and take in the hidden gems and natural wonders that make this part of the world so special and unique.
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Wellington > Queen Charlotte Sounds
As the Wellington heads disappear from view and you turn your face towards the South Island on board the Interislander or Bluebridge ferry, feel the stress begin to dissipate as you look forward to the first night of your 12-day journey of discovery and relaxation, starting off in the charming little port town of Picton.
Picton Water Taxis
If you’re looking for transportation from Picton to anywhere in the Queen Charlotte Sound, and back again, Picton Water Taxis should be your first port of call. This family owned and operated business provides a friendly and personal service, whether it’s a quick trip or multi-day adventure.
Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary
Nowhere demonstrates Picton’s community spirit and commitment to improving the natural environment like Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary. A short 10-minute boat trip from Picton, this 40 hectare mainland island offers amazing wildlife viewing, including tui, korimako (bellbird), korora (little blue penguin) and weta along a 2.7km circular walking track through regenerating native bush and old forest.
Toastie
They may be simple, but there’s a reason why the toasted sandwiches from Toastie Picton have become an instant classic since opening in 2021- they’re mind blowingly delicious! The ultimate in comfort food and the best thing to warm yourself up with after a day on the water, Toastie is a definite Picton must-do!
Bay of Many Coves
Nestled between stunning native bush and a secluded bay, Bay of Many Coves is a luxury five-star resort, set in the heart of Queen Charlotte Sound. Immerse yourself in nature and luxury and enjoy world-class cuisine, breath-taking scenery, adventure, or simply a sense of renewal and relaxation.
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Queen Charlotte Sounds
Soak up the tranquility and natural beauty of the gorgeous Marlborough Sounds by exploring the area by foot, bike or kayak. Cruise the sounds by boat and learn more about the history of the area and day-to-day life for local residents. Or get your pulse racing with a scenic flight or heli-picnic. ( Free day to relax )
Picton Water Taxis
If you’re looking for transportation from Picton to anywhere in the Queen Charlotte Sound, and back again, Picton Water Taxis should be your first port of call. This family owned and operated business provides a friendly and personal service, whether it’s a quick trip or multi-day adventure.
Helicopters Nelson
Elevate your holiday with a thrilling heli-picnic or sightseeing tour with Helicopters Nelson. Their experienced pilots can take you to some of the top of the south’s most remote and breathtaking places in a cinch, or help you make the most of your holiday by providing lodge-to-lodge bespoke transfers.
Awapara Pearl Farm
For an authentic slice of Sounds life and insight into the inner workings of a paua farm, book a tour with Awapara Pearl Farm. Enjoy good old fashioned Kiwi hospitality, incredible vistas of the outer Queen Charlotte Sound and learn about this locally-grown industry, with an opportunity to purchase some of their stunning pearls.
Bay of Many Coves
Nestled between stunning native bush and a secluded bay, Bay of Many Coves is a luxury five-star resort, set in the heart of Queen Charlotte Sound. Immerse yourself in nature and luxury and enjoy world-class cuisine, breath-taking scenery, adventure, or simply a sense of renewal and relaxation.
Marlborough Tour Company
Relax and enjoy the stunning Marlborough Sounds with the afternoon Seafood Odyssea Cruise, departing Picton. As you cruise through Tōtaranui/Queen Charlotte Sound, take in the natural beauty of the area and sample local seafood such as Regal salmon, Greenshell mussels, paired beautifully with Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.
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Queen Charlotte Sounds> Picton > Nelson/Tasman
With three national parks on its doorstep - Kahurangi, Abel Tasman and Nelson Lakes - and home to beautiful golden beaches, Nelson Tasman is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you want to stay active, or relax on your own private beach, Nelson Tasman is the place to be.
Wine Art & Wilderness
For the definitive guide to Nelson Tasman and Marlborough, get in touch with Wine Art and Wilderness, which specialises in exclusive luxury tours that get to the heart of what makes these regions so unique. Choose from a range of tours or ‘trust the guide’ to design a tour based on your specific interests.
Abel Tasman Charters
Abel Tasman Charters specialise in small group scenic trips on-board comfortable catamarans in the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park. Enjoy kayaking, swimming and hiking the track, strolling the beautiful beaches or relaxing on board their luxury boats and treat yourself with their delicious, locally sourced food and drinks. Photo credit: Abel Tasman Charters
Nelson/Tasman
Jump on a bike and hunt down some of the locally produced gourmet goodies that give this region the well-deserved reputation as the food basket of the top of the south. Or explore the local galleries and discover some amazing local artwork and meet the talented creatives that call this place home
Wheelie Fantastic
Explore the Mapua, Nelson and Abel Tasman National Park areas at your own pace with a bespoke cycle tour with Wheelie Fantastic. Whether you’re interested in art, local food or finding a secluded bay, Wheelie Fantastic’s specialist local knowledge will get you off-the-beaten-path and give you a deeper insight into the beautiful Nelson Tasman region.
Nelson/Tasman > Punakaiki > Hokitika
Wave goodbye to golden beaches and say hello to the vast power and untamed beauty of the wild West Coast. Adventure awaits around every bend as you drive along the Great Coast Road between Greymouth and Hokitika, one of the world’s most scenic coastal roads.
West Coast Treetop Walk and Cafe
Experience life with the birds and an exhilarating adventure high in the ancient Rimu and Kamahi tree canopy at the West Coast Treetop Walk and Cafe. The amazing 450-metre platform set 20 metres above ground among these ancient trees has been designed for easy access for all and is even pushchair friendly
Rimu Lodge
Rimu Lodge is the only Qualmark 5 star lodge on the West Coast. Nestled in a stunning landscape of pristine forest and majestic mountain ranges, it’s the ideal place to soak up the peace and tranquility of this architecturally designed lodge.
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Hokitika
Delve deeper into the area’s rich mining history and stunning natural beauty, by booking a scenic tour with a local guide, or taking the fascinating self-guided Ross Historic Goldfields Walk. Enjoy some downtime and discover the quirky driftwood sculptures, with an invigorating stroll along Hokitika Beach.
Ross Historic Goldfields Walks
Discover old gold mining relics, unearth some local history and enjoy stunning 360 degree views on a number of walks that lead from Ross. Three tracks start from here: Ross Water Race Walkway - 1 hour, 1.6km loop; Ross Historic Cemetery - 20 minutes, 600m return; and Mount Greenland - a challenging 7 hours, 18km climb.
Hokitika Scenic Tours
For Small, intimate and private tours of all the best spots on the West Coast, including Hokitika Gorge, Dorothy Falls and Hokitika Beach get in touch with Hokitika Scenic Tours. Their knowledgeable, local guides can create custom experiences, based on your interests, fitness level and availability.
Hokitika beach
No trip to the Coast is complete without a stroll along Hokitika Beach. This wild and wonderful surf beach has amazing mountain views, magical sunsets and is ideal for stargazing. Pack a picnic and fossick for pounamu (jade), check out the driftwood sculptures and keep your eyes open for Little Blue Penguins.
Rimu Lodge
Rimu Lodge is the only Qualmark 5 star lodge on the West Coast. Nestled in a stunning landscape of pristine forest and majestic mountain ranges, it’s the ideal place to soak up the peace and tranquility of this architecturally designed lodge.
Hokitika> Cheviot
Wave goodbye to the rugged West Coast and head inland through pristine native forest, stopping in for a rejuvenating soak and delicious lunch at the beautiful Maruia Hot Springs. Enjoy the detoxifying and healing properties of the natural thermal mineral water before continuing your drive to Cheviot.
Reefton Distilling Co
For a genuine taste of the intrepid spirit of the West Coast and its people, a trip to the Reefton Distilling Co is a great place to start. Housed in one of Reefton’s beautiful heritage buildings, the distillery produces premium handcrafted spirits distilled from the West Coast’s lush rainforest.
Maruia Hot Springs
Immerse yourself in an authentic, natural and pure thermal mineral water experience at Maruia Hot Springs. Stay the night and relax and rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit; treat yourself to an indulgent massage or spa treatment and enjoy a carefully crafted meal, featuring fresh organic ingredients from local suppliers.
Matai Peak Lodge
Discover luxury at its very best with an overnight stay at Matai Peak hillside lodge. Located in a remote area on a rugged mountainside with views overlooking the Pacific Ocean and mighty Kaikōura ranges, enjoy the spring-fed hot tub, roaring outdoor fire and truly incredible sun rises.
Cheviot
Wake up with an amazing sunrise, the sound of birdsong and the knowledge that today is all about slowing down and soaking up the scenery and warm Kiwi hospitality. From claybird shooting to a thrilling jet boat ride, you’ll enjoy meeting the people who call this special part of the world home.
Energy Jet
Experience all that beautiful Hurunui has to offer, with a thrilling jet boat ride along the Hurunui River with Energy Jet. From shallow river braids, to beautiful canyons and large boulder fields, plus numerous spins and time to pause and enjoy the serenity, this is an action packed trip, from start to finish.
Matai Peak Lodge
Discover luxury at its very best with an overnight stay at Matai Peak hillside lodge. Located in a remote area on a rugged mountainside with views overlooking the Pacific Ocean and mighty Kaikōura ranges, enjoy the spring-fed hot tub, roaring outdoor fire and truly incredible sun rises.
Cheviot > Kaikōura
Perfectly positioned with the lapping waves of the Pacific Ocean to one side and the towering mountains of the Kaikōura Seaward Ranges to the other; Kaikōura is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature, from the land, sea or air - and even better with a local gin in hand!
South Pacific Helicopters
To capture the best of Kaikōura with a premier whale watching experience, heli-picnic, heli-kayaking adventure or scenic flight with South Pacific Helicopters is the way to go. This locally owned and operated business will take you straight to where the action is and help you make the most of your time in Kaikōura.
Hapuku Lodge and Tree Houses
Treat yourself to a little luxury and stunning ocean views at the Hapuku Lodge and Treehouses. Set on Kaikōura’s rugged coastline, Hapuku Lodge is also one of the best places in the region to experience the stunning produce that is grown, caught and foraged right here in Kaikōura.
Kaikōura
Enjoy a day relaxing in Kaikōura, where the mountains meet the sea
Emporium Brewing
Located in the beautiful seaside town of Kaikoura, Emporium Brewing is far more than just a brewery. With an 18 hole mini golf course, two Escape Rooms and a new on-site bar, Emporium provides a range of activities for all ages. Sample their local brews and enjoy some lunch at their on-site bar.
Kaikōura Kayaks
Get up close to the incredible wildlife of the Kaikōura coastline, with a half-day guided family kayaking trip with Kaikōura Kayaks. Survey the coastline and spot the Native New Zealand fur seals - and if you’re lucky you may even see some little blue penguins and Dusky Dolphins.
Dolphin Encounter
Kaikōura is one of the best places in the world to encounter dolphins in their natural environment. It's just you, the open ocean... and Kaikōura's wild Dusky Dolphins. Dolphin Encounter offers dolphin cruises, or for a truly life changing experience, dive in and take a swim alongside these sleek and playful beauties.
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Kaikōura > Marlborough
Enjoy a plate of Crayfish before heading north to the Marlborough region, only just up the road!
Scenic Hotel Marlborough
For family friendly accommodation with a relaxed atmosphere, check out Scenic Hotel Marlborough. This 4-star plus hotel is just minutes walk from the centre of Blenheim with some of New Zealand's finest food and wine virtually on your doorstep. The in-house restaurant ensures the whole tribe will be fed and no one goes hungry!
Marlborough Wine Tours
If you are looking for the perfect way to explore and experience the very best of New Zealand wine, Marlborough Wine Tours’ half day tour is the ideal starting point. Tour four different wineries with an opportunity to taste a variety of the region’s best wines, including Marlborough’s flagship Sauvignon Blanc and world-class Pinot Noir.
Marlborough> Wellington
Head north via Picton, and jump on board your ferry back to Wellington.