Cultural Upper South Island

Pick up your maui motorhome. Prior to departing Christchurch, you might consider exploring the heart of Christchurch, to blow out those travel cobwebs! Drive to Kaikoura, best known for whalewatching. En route visit the Pegasus Winery in Amberley, Waipara (approximately 30 minutes North of Christchurch) for a taste of local food and wine. Enjoy the hospitality of the Dusky Lodge in Kaikoura. Don’t forget to book your half day tour with Maori Tours Kaikoura for the next day.

After your half day outing, enjoy a good meal at the Beach House Café. Drive North to Nelson via Lewis Pass or the wine country of Marlborough. Make sure you drop into the Koata Krafts Gallery, located next to the i-SITE in central Nelson.

Spend today at the Abel Tasman National Park on a sea kayak with Abel Tasman Kayaks, or perhaps take their special Abel Tasman Maori Uncut guided tour. Either way, you’ll have a memorable experience in Motueka.

Head South towards the West Coast for the extraordinarily scenic drive down the West Coast. There are many sights of interest along the way. Splash out for a night of luxury and hospitality at the Awatuna Homestead in Hokitika. You’ll love the evening story telling session with your hosts that brings this whole region to life in a very special way.

Drive back to Christchurch over Arthurs Pass. Back in Christchurch this evening, you could take in a special cultural experience at either Tamaki Heritage Village in Ferrymead, or at Ko Tane, located at the Willowbank Park. Both experiences offer insights into either our historical past or the native wildlife of Aotearoa New Zealand.