Top of the South: Self Drive Tour

Christchurch and Kaikoura are two of the most popular destinations on New Zealand’s South Island, and the drive between them offers stunning views of the coast and surrounding landscape.

Christchurch is a vibrant cultural hub, offering visitors a range of activities and attractions. The city is home to world-class museums, galleries, and theaters, and is a food lover’s paradise, with a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars serving up local specialties and international cuisine. Visitors can also take a punt ride on the Avon River or explore the stunning botanical gardens.

Kaikoura, on the other hand, is a small coastal town known for its abundant marine wildlife. Visitors can take a whale-watching tour or swim with dolphins, seals, and other creatures in the pristine waters off the coast. The town also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastlines, and is a great place to relax and unwind.

The drive between Christchurch and Kaikoura is equally spectacular, taking visitors along the rugged coastline and through the stunning Kaikoura Ranges. The route offers numerous lookout points and scenic stops, allowing visitors to take in the breathtaking views and natural beauty of the region.

Overall, a trip to Christchurch and Kaikoura and the drive between them is a must-do for anyone traveling to New Zealand’s South Island. With their stunning scenery, range of activities, and welcoming atmosphere, these destinations offer a truly unforgettable New Zealand experience.

Day 1: Christchurch to Kaikoura Distance: 181 km (112 miles) Driving time: approximately 2.5 hours

Nelson is a charming coastal city located on the northeastern tip of New Zealand’s South Island. The city is known for its stunning beaches, world-class wineries, and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore the city’s numerous galleries and studios, or take a stroll along the waterfront to take in the stunning views. Nelson is also a hub for outdoor activities, offering visitors the chance to go hiking, kayaking, or sailing in the surrounding mountains and seas.

The drive between Kaikoura and Nelson is one of the most scenic routes on the South Island, taking visitors through the rugged Marlborough Sounds and along the stunning coastline. Along the way, visitors can stop at quaint seaside towns like Havelock and Picton, or explore the stunning wineries of the Marlborough region. The drive also takes visitors through the picturesque Queen Charlotte Track, a popular destination for hikers and mountain bikers.

Overall, a trip to Nelson and the drive between Kaikoura and Nelson offer visitors the chance to explore some of New Zealand’s most stunning natural scenery, while also experiencing the vibrant culture and unique attractions of this charming coastal city. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or an art lover, Nelson and the surrounding region have something for everyone.

Day 2: Kaikoura to Nelson Distance: 244 km (151 miles) Driving time: approximately 3.5 hours

Abel Tasman National Park is one of the most popular and breathtaking destinations on New Zealand’s South Island. The park is located on the northern tip of the island and offers visitors stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests to explore.

Visitors can hike the famous Abel Tasman Coast Track, which spans 60 kilometers along the coastline and offers breathtaking views of the park’s many beaches and bays. Alternatively, visitors can take a scenic boat tour, kayak through the park’s pristine waters, or even try their hand at canyoning or rock climbing.

The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including fur seals, dolphins, and penguins, and visitors can often spot these creatures during their visit. Additionally, the park offers visitors the chance to learn about the area’s rich cultural history and see the remains of ancient Maori settlements.

Overall, Abel Tasman National Park offers visitors an unforgettable experience with its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural history, and range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike, a relaxing day on the beach, or an up-close encounter with local wildlife, Abel Tasman is a must-see destination on any trip to New Zealand’s South Island.

Day 3: Abel Tasman National Park Distance: 62 km (38 miles) from Nelson Driving time: approximately 1 hour

Marlborough is a region located on the northeastern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, famous for its stunning natural scenery, world-renowned wineries, and unique attractions.

The region is home to the stunning Marlborough Sounds, a network of ancient sunken river valleys that create a unique and beautiful coastal landscape. Visitors can explore the area by boat, kayak, or on foot, taking in the breathtaking views of the fjords, coves, and inlets along the way.

Marlborough is also famous for its wine, particularly its crisp Sauvignon Blanc, which is grown in the region’s sun-drenched vineyards. Visitors can take a tour of the wineries and cellar doors, learning about the region’s wine-making history and sampling some of the world’s best wines.

In addition to its stunning natural scenery and world-class wineries, Marlborough is also home to unique attractions such as the Omaka Aviation Heritage Center, which features a collection of World War I and II aircraft and artifacts, and the Kaipupu Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to rare and endangered birds and native wildlife.

Overall, Marlborough is a must-visit destination on any trip to New Zealand’s South Island, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, wine culture, and one-of-a-kind attractions.

Day 4: Marlborough Wine Region Distance: 131 km (81 miles) from Nelson Driving time: approximately 2 hours

The drive begins in Marlborough, where visitors can explore the region’s famous wineries and take in the breathtaking scenery of the Marlborough Sounds. From there, the route takes visitors south along the stunning Kaikoura coastline, offering stunning views of the rugged coastline and the Pacific Ocean.

One of the highlights of the drive is the Kaikoura Peninsula, which is home to a variety of wildlife including seals, whales, and dolphins. Visitors can stop at one of the many lookout points to spot these creatures in their natural habitat.

As the drive continues south, it passes through the rural towns of Cheviot and Waipara, which are famous for their award-winning wineries and beautiful countryside. Visitors can stop at one of the many cellar doors to sample some of the region’s best wines, or take a stroll through the picturesque vineyards.

The drive ends in Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island, which offers visitors a unique blend of cultural attractions, stunning architecture, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the city’s many galleries and museums, take a stroll through the beautiful Hagley Park, or take a scenic tram ride through the city center.

Overall, the drive between Marlborough and Christchurch is a must-see destination for anyone visiting New Zealand’s South Island, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable journey through some of the country’s most stunning landscapes and cultural attractions.

Day 5: Christchurch Distance: 416 km (258 miles) Driving time: approximately 5.5 hours

Please note that these are estimates and driving times may vary depending on traffic, road conditions, and stops along the way. It’s always a good idea to allow extra time for unexpected delays or to take in the sights along the way.