Breadcrumb
New Zealand tour itinerary name and information
Thrifty Tours

2 day Kaikoura and Christchurch Tour

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.

Currency selector
Select your currency to view indicative pricing
Tour summary and feature

Quick Itinerary Details

New Zealand Independent Tour

This suggested tour costs from NZD$720 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Wellington, finishes in Christchurch

2 days/1 nights

Hotel 4 star

 Customisable? YES

 Viewed 79 times in the last 7 days

This tour also includes
- Kaikoura Railway Station to Kaikoura Accommodation
- Kaikoura accommodation to Railway Station
Meals included: 1 breakfast
Tour full itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
2 day Kaikoura and Christchurch Tour - Day 1
Interislander Ferry Wellington to Picton with exclusive access to the Premium Plus Lounge

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 is a remarkable photographic opportunity. At the end of Queen Charlotte Sound the cruise comes to an end in the picturesque town of Picton.
When you're not out on the deck enjoying the amazing views, you can retreat to the exclusive Premium Plus lounge which is the most comfortable and relaxing way to travel across the Cook Strait. You'll enjoy complimentary beverages, light snacks, lunch or breakfast, internet access, magazines and newspapers and the most comfortable seating, so you can sit back and enjoy the journey.

Picton to Kaikoura by Intercity Coach

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.

Kaikoura Railway Station to Kaikoura Accommodation

Today you will be met at Kaikoura railway station and transferred to your accommodation.

Your accommodation: Sudima Hotel Kaikoura

This state-of-the-art waterfront hotel in Kaikoura has a 4.5 star rating with an outstanding in-house restaurant, a bar and conference facilities.

Back to top

2 day Kaikoura and Christchurch Tour - Day 2
Kaikoura accommodation to Kaikoura Railway Station

You will be met at your accommodation by a representative from Kaikoura Shuttles and transported to your point of departure.

Whale Watch Kaikoura

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.

Kaikoura to Christchurch by Intercity Coach

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.

Back to top

Tour quick quote rework
Get an Instant Quote or Book this Tour
2 day Kaikoura and Christchurch Tour
Step 1:
Step 2: Select number of passengers and room configuration
How many guests are children?
How many guests are children?

Enter phone number to get a call from a travel planning expert within 24 hours

Enter email address to receive your instant quote

Tick this box if you do not wish to receive emails about special offers
No pricing loaded - please choose another date or contact us
Your quote for this tour:
Start date:
End date:
Guests:
Rooms:
Total cost for ALL guests on this tour package is:
NZD$0
or
This quote is based on vehicles to accommodate your party in the vehicle type. We suggest changing the car type or contacting us for the best options.
The package cost above excludes rental vehicle hire as you are requesting a price for a vehicle outside of our designated season. Please reach out direct for rental vehicle rates.

 

NOTE: Quotes are subject to availability of specific accommodation and other inclusions. Our NZ touring experts will be in touch with you regarding this. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on todays exchange rate and is subject to change.Terms and Conditions apply

Remember - we can create this itinerary with any style of accommodation or customise to suit your interests and timeframe. Just contact us here.

Tour departure list
Departure dates & prices
See all dates & prices for: 2 day Kaikoura and Christchurch Tour
This tour has 0 departure dates.
All prices are in
All prices are in
Contact form
Send us an enquiry about this tour

Fields marked * are mandatory

Subscribe to our Regular Newsletter for Inspiring Holiday Ideas
Why book with New Zealand Coach Tours?

At NZ Coach Tours we choose only the best coach tours out there. We have up to date knowledge and experience, so we can give you the best advice on which tour is right for you. We can combine tours, maybe one tour that offers the best in the North Island and one that offers something different for the South Island. Our range of independent tours depart daily and can be custom designed to suit you perfectly. We have loads of accommodation options, activity ideas, and sell a beautiful destination that is guaranteed to blow you away!
Put simply - we have something for everyone and we are confident you will not be left disappointed.

In summary

  • We specialise in New Zealand. Nothing else. 100% New Zealand.
  • You get the best price for your tour and we guarantee it.
  • Our experienced team is based right here in New Zealand, and we're ready to help you with every step of your personalised journey.
  • We have the first-hand experience of the tours we sell.
  • We have quality, long standing relationships with many touring partners, accommodation and activity suppliers
  • Legendary dedication to service excellence.
  • Secure payment options for your peace of mind.
  • Operating since 2004 and our guests love us.
  • Because your visit to New Zealand deserves to be the best.
  • We represent only the best-escorted coach touring brands — Grand Pacific Tours, Grand Pacific Ultimate Small Group Tours, Intrepid Travel and AAT Kings.
  • Talk to one of our team today to find and book the New Zealand coach tour that's right for you.