Take a quick trip across the Cook Strait from Wellington and head south with Thrifty Tours, stopping in Kaikoura for a magnificent whale-watching tour, before arriving in the garden city of Christchurch.
New Zealand independent tour
This suggested tour costs from NZD$574 per person (twin share, low season)
Starts in Wellington, finishes in Christchurch
2 days/1 nights
Hotel 4 star
Customisable? YES
Viewed 107 times in the last 7 days
Day 1: Wellington to Kaikoura. Accommodation: The White Morph, Kaikoura
Day 2: Kaikoura to Christchurch.
The 92 km journey between Wellington and Picton takes around 3 hours and has been described as 'one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world'. Leaving Wellington Harbour you pass many interesting points such as Pencarrow Head on top of which is New Zealand's oldest lighthouse (1859). Red Rocks is home to a seal colony and Oterangi Bay is the site which recorded the country's highest ever wind speed of 268 kph (167 mph).
From the Cook Strait spectacular views of the Kaikoura Ranges on the South Island can be enjoyed and dolphins and many sea birds are often seen. Around one hour of the cruise takes you through the Marlborough Sounds and this region of bush covered mountains, small islands, crystal clear waters and secluded bays offer remarkable photographic opportunities. The final leg of your cruise travels through Queen Charlotte Sound before coming to an end in the picturesque town of Picton.
From Picton you head south on state Highway 1 towards Blenheim which sits right at the heart of the New Zealand's largest wine producing region, Marlborough. Crossing the 'dry hills' of the Marlborough ranges you head towards one of the most spectacular coastlines of the South Island, the Kaikoura Coast. The road hugs the shore for around 50 kilometres and offers many chances to view the native wildlife such as seabirds and New Zealand fur seals. To the east is the turquoise waters of the South Pacific Ocean and to the west the towering Kaikoura Ranges. Kaikoura Township is a bustling little place with many cafes, restaurants and shops but the main reason for visiting here is the wildlife.
Today you will be met at Kaikoura railway station and transferred to your accommodation.
Your accommodation: The White Morph, Kaikoura
Set on the Esplanade in KaikÅura, The White Morph enjoys commanding views of the ocean and mountains. Just a 10-minute walk into town, The White Morph has been beautifully placed so that you can take in the spectacular scenery of Kaikoura while enjoying the variety of attractions on offer.You will be met at your accommodation by a representative from Kaikoura Shuttles and transported to your point of departure.
Experience New Zealand's only marine based whale watching company. Whale Watch Kaikoura offer a once-in-a-lifetime, up close encounter with the giant Sperm Whale. You are also likely to encounter New Zealand fur seals, dusky dolphins and albatross. Depending on the season you may also see pilot, blue and southern right whales as well as migrating humpbacks. Often orcas can be spotted here and the world's smallest dolphin, the Hectors, occasionally make an appearance.
Cruise in style on modern catamarans, specifically designed for whale watching - Featuring large passenger cabins and outside viewing decks. Passenger numbers for each tour are kept below the vessel carrying capacity to ensure your tour experience remains a personal one.
The drive from Kaikoura to Christchurch continues to follow the spectacular coastline before heading inland and through North Canterbury's major wine region, the Waipara Valley. You are also introduced to the South Island's most numerous inhabitant, the sheep. Arriving into Christchurch City puts you close to the airport and the International Antarctic Centre and a visit is highly recommended. Here you can get as close to experiencing life on the frozen continent without actually visiting plus see New Zealand little blue penguins and ride in a Haaglund Tracked vehicle.
Starts | Status | Twin/Double (2 people sharing) | Single occupancy | You save | |
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May 22, 2022
(Sunday) |
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NZD$574
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NZD$744
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May 23, 2022
(Monday) |
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NZD$574
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May 24, 2022
(Tuesday) |
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May 25, 2022
(Wednesday) |
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NZD$574
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May 26, 2022
(Thursday) |
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May 27, 2022
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May 28, 2022
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May 29, 2022
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May 30, 2022
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May 31, 2022
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Jun 1, 2022
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Jun 2, 2022
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Jun 3, 2022
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Jun 4, 2022
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Jun 5, 2022
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Jun 6, 2022
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Jun 7, 2022
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Jun 8, 2022
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Jun 9, 2022
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Jun 10, 2022
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Jun 11, 2022
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Jun 12, 2022
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Jun 13, 2022
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Jun 14, 2022
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Jun 15, 2022
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Jun 16, 2022
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Jun 17, 2022
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Jun 18, 2022
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Jun 19, 2022
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Jun 20, 2022
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Jun 21, 2022
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2 days, from Wellington to Christchurch
2 days, from Queenstown to Christchurch
2 days, from Christchurch to Queenstown
2 days, from Auckland to Auckland
2 days, from Auckland to Auckland
2 days, from Auckland to Auckland
2 days, from Auckland to Auckland
2 days, from Queenstown to Christchurch
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