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12-Day South Island Adventure Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14Exploring Christchurch's Icons
Morning
Start your adventure with a visit to Christchurch Botanic Gardens. The gardens are a serene and beautiful place to begin your trip, offering a peaceful walk among native and exotic plants. Enjoy breakfast at the nearby Christchurch, known for its delightful morning menu.
Afternoon
After the gardens, head over to Canterbury Museum, which is just a short walk away. This museum offers fascinating insights into the natural and cultural history of New Zealand. For lunch, try one of the local cafes around the museum area.
Evening
Conclude your day with a ride on the Christchurch Gondola. The gondola offers stunning panoramic views of Christchurch and beyond. Dine at the summit's restaurant for an unforgettable evening meal.
Bedtime
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Historical and Cultural Delights
Morning
Begin your day with a visit to Hagley Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll or rent a bike to explore this expansive green space. Grab breakfast at one of the charming cafes near Hagley Park.
Afternoon
Next, explore New Regent Street, famous for its Spanish Mission-style architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy lunch at one of the many eateries lining this picturesque street.
Evening
In the evening, take a relaxing punt ride on the Avon River with Christchurch Tram City Tour & Punting Combo. This combo ticket offers both a tram tour of the city and a serene punt ride on the river. End your day with dinner at one of Christchurch's top-rated restaurants.
Bedtime
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Nature and Wildlife Encounters
Morning
Kick off your morning with an adventure to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. This reserve allows you to get up close with native wildlife including kiwis. Have breakfast at their on-site cafe before exploring.
Afternoon
Continue your nature-themed day by visiting Orana Wildlife Park, which is just a short drive away. This open-range zoo is home to various exotic animals. Enjoy lunch at their cafe while watching giraffes roam nearby.
Evening
Head back into town for an evening visit to Transitional Cathedral (Cardboard Cathedral). This architectural marvel is both innovative and symbolic of Christchurch's resilience. Have dinner in one of Christchurch's fine dining establishments nearby.
Bedtime
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Scenic Adventures Beyond Christchurch
Morning
Embark on an exciting journey with Arthur's Pass TranzAlpine Train and Castle Hill Day Tour. This full-day tour will take you through some of New Zealand’s most breathtaking landscapes aboard one of the world's great train journeys.
Afternoon
Evening
Return to Christchurch
Morning
Begin your final day with CHC Christchurch International Airport Manaia Lounge Access. Enjoy breakfast in comfort as you prepare for your journey home or onward travels.
Afternoon
Spend some time revisiting any favorite spots or exploring new ones in Christchurch. Consider taking a leisurely walk along Avon River. Have lunch at Christchurch, savoring some last tastes of local cuisine.
Evening
Conclude your trip with a memorable evening by visiting Sumner Beach. Watch the sunset over the ocean and enjoy dinner at one of Sumner’s beachfront restaurants before heading back to pack and rest.
Bedtime
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Dunedin's Coastal Charm
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the famous Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle. The beautifully restored building and its gardens offer a glimpse into the country's colonial past. Enjoy breakfast at the castle's cafe, which serves delicious local fare.
Afternoon
Head to the Otago Peninsula for some wildlife spotting. Visit the Royal Albatross Centre to see these magnificent birds up close. For lunch, stop by a nearby seaside cafe offering fresh seafood and stunning views.
Evening
In the evening, explore Dunedin's vibrant city center. Take a stroll down George Street and enjoy dinner at one of Dunedin's top-rated restaurants, known for their farm-to-table cuisine.
Bedtime
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Queenstown: Adventure Capital
Morning
From Christchurch Full-Day Lord of the Rings Tour to Edoras will take you on an epic journey through Middle-earth landscapes featured in the iconic film series. Begin your day early with breakfast at your hotel before embarking on this adventure.
Afternoon
From Christchurch Full-Day Lord of the Rings Tour to Edoras continues through stunning scenery and includes a picnic lunch in one of the picturesque locations used in the films.
Evening
From Christchurch Full-Day Lord of the Rings Tour to Edoras concludes in Queenstown where you can unwind with dinner at one of Queenstown’s renowned lakeside restaurants.
Bedtime
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Thrills and Chills in Queenstown
Morning
Christchurch Sea Kayaking Tour of Lyttelton Harbour offers an exhilarating start to your day as you paddle through crystal-clear waters surrounded by majestic mountains. Have breakfast at a local cafe before heading out.
Afternoon
Christchurch Sea Kayaking Tour of Lyttelton Harbour continues into the afternoon with opportunities for wildlife spotting and exploring hidden coves. Enjoy a packed lunch provided during the tour.
Evening
After returning from your kayaking adventure, relax with dinner at one of Queenstown’s cozy bistros offering hearty meals perfect for refueling after an active day.
Bedtime
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Wanaka Wonders
Morning
Begin your Wanaka experience with a visit to Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour from Christchurch. This tour offers breathtaking views of Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo’s turquoise waters. Start early with breakfast at your accommodation before setting off.
Afternoon
Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo Day Tour from Christchurch continues into the afternoon as you explore more scenic spots around Wanaka and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature’s beauty.
Evening
Return to Wanaka town center for dinner at one of its charming lakeside restaurants known for their fresh local produce.
Bedtime
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Franz Josef's Glacial Majesty
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Franz Josef Glacier. Opt for a guided glacier hike or a scenic helicopter flight to get up close to this natural wonder. Enjoy breakfast at a local cafe before your adventure.
Afternoon
After exploring the glacier, head to the nearby Glacier Hot Pools for a relaxing soak in the thermal waters. For lunch, try one of the cozy eateries in Franz Josef village.
Evening
In the evening, take a stroll through the rainforest on one of the many walking trails around Franz Josef. End your day with dinner at one of Franz Josef's top-rated restaurants.
Bedtime
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Nelson's Coastal Beauty
Morning
Christchurch Packhorse Hut Guided Walk and Scenic Drive offers an early start with breakfast at your accommodation before embarking on this scenic adventure through lush landscapes.
Afternoon
Christchurch Packhorse Hut Guided Walk and Scenic Drive continues into the afternoon with breathtaking views and a picnic lunch amidst nature.
Evening
Christchurch Packhorse Hut Guided Walk and Scenic Drive concludes in Nelson where you can enjoy dinner at one of Nelson’s renowned seafood restaurants.
Bedtime
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Kaikoura's Marine Marvels
Morning
Christchurch Godley Head & Lyttelton Guided Walking Tour begins with breakfast at your hotel before heading out for an exciting day of marine wildlife encounters.
Afternoon
Christchurch Godley Head & Lyttelton Guided Walking Tour includes opportunities for whale watching and dolphin spotting along Kaikoura’s stunning coastline. Enjoy lunch at a seaside cafe known for its fresh seafood.
Evening
Christchurch Godley Head & Lyttelton Guided Walking Tour wraps up back in Kaikoura town where you can relax with dinner at one of its charming local restaurants.
Bedtime
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