We depart Auckland early and fly to Nelson. On arrival, we meet our local driver who guides us through to Mapua then onwards to Moutere Village (the original German settlement). We stop for lunch at the Moutere Inn, the oldest pub in New Zealand (also built by German settlers) then continue to explore the greater Nelson area and include visits to some wonderful creative studio’s, a peek at Melrose House (one of several large scale 19th century timber homes). And if time allows, we visit Queens Gardens and the Botanic Gardens, the latter being where the first game of rugby was played in New Zealand and the geographical centre of our country.  Later, we check in to our accommodation where you have time t relax before visiting a local restaurant for dinner.

(Dinner).

Today we check out of our motel and make tracks to Punakaiki (Pancake Rocks). We drive from Nelson, following ‘Nelson’s Distress’ the railway line which snaked its way south through several tunnels and steep gorges. We’ll pause at Kawatiri Junction and learn a little of the history of the track that was to join Nelson to the rest of the South Island.

We call into Murchison briefly before turning west as we follow the Buller river through the gorge and onwards towards Westport. We pass Lyell which must have been one of the least hospitable goldfields of New Zealand’s history!

We stop for lunch in Westport, then continue to Punakaiki. Here, you may wish to do the Pancake Rocks walk - an easy 1km loop (there is a shorter option should you prefer). We then check in to our accommodation and dine in-house for dinner. 

(Breakfast, Dinner).

This morning we’re picked up at 9am for the West Coast Heritage Tour. We’re driven out to the Brunner Mine Site to hear the history and a walk around the remains of the mine. We then head down to the breakwaters to see the famous Greymouth Bar and river mouth and learn the history of the dangers this presents. Afterwards, we visit Shantytown Heritage park.

We make it back to Greymouth in time for lunch before we check-in for our TranzAlpine Rail Journey to Christchurch. 

This is one of the most famous train journeys in the world. The TranzAlpine Rail travels coast-to-coast through the ‘Great Divide’ and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions our countries South Island. Make yourself comfortable, and prepare to be captivated. 

(Breakfast, Dinner).

Today we make the most of Christchurch when we join a local operator for a city tour. This includes a ride on the gondola where we take in the views, visit the Airforce Museum and go for a wander around the industrious Riverside Markets. 

Tonight we enjoy a very unique fine dining experience aboard a vintage tram as we drive through the centre of Christchurch.

(Breakfast, Dinner).

We need to be up bright and early today for our second train adventure on the Coastal Pacific Rail. Setting off from Christchurch Railway Station in the early morning, there is a good chance you’ll be watching the sunrise aboard. Enjoy the ocean vistas over isolated bays and coves combined with stunning views over the South Kaikoura Range.

We disembark in Blenheim and make our way to a local vineyard for an ambient lunch. Later, we check in to our accommodation then dine in-house for the evening. 

(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).

Keep some space free in your suitcase... today we depart on a tour of the Awatere Valley and Blenheim where we sample some of the locally made chocolate, wine & cuisine. 

We then head off to the airport in the mid afternoon for our flights home

(Breakfast, Lunch).