11 Day Top of South Island

Grand Pacific Tours

11 Day Top of South Island Signature

Daily Itinerary

(B) Breakfast (SL) Speciality Lunch (L) Lunch (D) Dinner (SD) Specialty Dinner.

DAY 1: Arrive Christchurch (D) 

On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink when you meet your Tour Leader and travelling companions for dinner. 

Hotel Distinction Christchurch Hotel (2 nights) 

DAY 2: Christchurch - Akaroa - Christchurch (B) 

After an introductory city sights tour, enjoy a scenic drive to the historic French village of Akaroa, with time to wander through the charming galleries and craft stores. This afternoon set off on a Nature Cruise in the hope of spotting the rare Hector’s Dolphin and keep an eye out for penguins and other sea birds. Following your cruise, return to Christchurch where the evening is free to dine at one of the city’s many restaurants. 

DAY 3: Christchurch - Moana - Hokitika (B,SL,D) 

This morning board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. Travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges before descending through the Otira Tunnel to Moana, on the banks of picturesque Lake Brunner. Enjoy lunch at Kingfisher Restaurant, before travelling to the Brunner Mine Site, the location of the 1896 mine explosion. This afternoon in the coastal town of Hokitika, visit a local gallery, for the opportunity to pick up a gift or souvenir. 

Hotel Beachfront Hotel Hokitika (Ocean View Room) 

DAY 4: Hokitika - Punakaiki (B,SL,D) 

Today, take in the natural beauty of the Hokitika Gorge on a short walk descending through the hardwood forest that will lead you to a swing bridge which crosses the Hokitika River. Continue north to Greymouth, home of Monteith’s Brewing Co. where you will sample locally brewed beers over lunch. This afternoon travel along the Great Coast Road to the world-famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. 

Hotel The Ocean View Retreat – Punakaiki 

DAY 5: Punakaiki - Nelson (B,D) 

Journey north along the coast to Tauranga Bay and Cape Foulwind, named by Captain Cook in 1770 when he encountered nasty weather. A short walk along the rocky headland will showcase the rugged coastline and sea life often on show amongst the rocks. Travel inland via the Buller Gorge and Murchison to Nelson, one of the sunniest cities in New Zealand. This afternoon enjoy an orientation tour of the city followed by a visit to the Nelson Classic Car Museum where you will marvel at an incredible collection of iconic cars. 

Hotel Rutherford Hotel (Premium Room. 2 nights) 

DAY 6: Nelson - Abel Tasman National Park - Nelson (B,SL) 

Travel to Kaiteriteri, gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park and join a cruise along the parks’ picturesque coastline. At Anchorage Bay a barbeque lunch will be served. Re-join your coach and depart for Nelson via the vineyards. This evening is free for you to dine at one of the local restaurants in town.

DAY 7: Nelson - Blenheim (B,SL,D) 

Today travel via Havelock and the wine-growing region of Marlborough. Visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, home to one of the largest private collections of WW1 Aircraft, brought to life in sets created by the internationally acclaimed WingNut Films and Weta Workshop. Head back into town where you will enjoy lunch at a local Blenheim beer garden before a short drive to Cloudy Bay Estate. Established in 1985, Cloudy Bay was one of the original wineries in the region. Enjoy a personalised tasting experience in the Barrell Room followed by time to wander through the superb, manicured grounds and towering gum trees, which will surely be a highlight. 

Hotel Scenic Hotel Marlborough (2 nights) 

DAY 8: Blenheim - Marlborough Sounds - Blenheim (B,SL) 

Enjoy a leisurely start to the day before travelling to Picton where time is available to explore this picturesque port. Board a luxury vessel at Picton Marina and cruise the spectacular Queen Charlotte Sound to Furneaux Lodge whilst enjoying the informative commentary on this stunning region. At Furneaux Lodge a delicious lunch will be served followed by time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. There is access to kayaks and short walks around the property. On the return cruise to Picton a cheese platter featuring local produce is served accompanied by a glass of Marlborough wine, the perfect end to your Marlborough Sounds adventure. Board the coach for the short journey back to Blenheim where the evening is free to dine at one of the local restaurants. 

DAY 9: Blenheim - Kaikõura (B,D) 

Farewell the Marlborough region and journey to Kaikõura. Visit the Kaikõura Museum, which features an exhibition depicting the impact of the 2016 earthquake. This afternoon you may like to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the coastline to see the many species of whales that migrate through this area. 

Hotel Sudima Kaikõura

DAY: 10 Kaikõura - Christchurch (B,SD) 

Depart Kaikõura and head to Christchurch to visit the International Antarctic Centre, designed to provide an informative account of life in Antarctica. This evening enjoy a pre-dinner drink and reminisce on memories shared with your new friends at the farewell dinner. 

Hotel Distinction Christchurch Hotel   

DAY 11: Depart Christchurch (B) 

Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.