Grand Pacific 11 Day Signature Top of the South Island

On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink when you meet your Tour Leader and travelling companions for dinner.

Staying in Hotel Distinction Christchurch Hotel (2 nights)

• Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey 4.5 star hotel offers refurbished Classic Rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.

Explore the top of the South Island on this unique 11-day tour. Enjoy short walks to really explore the areas of natural beauty.  Benefit from 3 two-night stays, 7 sumptuous dinners, daily breakfast and luxury transport included.

After an introductory city sights tour, enjoy a scenic drive to the historic French village of Akaroa, with time to wander through the charming galleries and craft stores. This afternoon set off on a Nature Cruise in the hope of spotting the rare Hector’s Dolphin and keep an eye out for penguins and other sea birds. Following your cruise, return to Christchurch where the evening is free to dine at one of the city’s many restaurants.

Staying in Hotel Distinction Christchurch Hotel

• Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey 4.5 star hotel offers refurbished Classic Rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.

This morning board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. Travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges before descending through the Otira Tunnel to Moana, on the banks of picturesque Lake Brunner. Enjoy lunch at Kingfisher Restaurant, before travelling to the Brunner Mine Site, the location of the 1896 mine explosion. This afternoon in the coastal town of Hokitika, visit a local gallery, for the opportunity to pick up a gift or souvenir.

Staying in Hotel Beachfront Hotel Hokitika (Ocean View Room)

• This stunning Beachfront Hotel is uniquely located on the shores of the Tasman Sea and in the centre of Hokitika which puts beachcombing and shopping artisan galleries right off the doorstep.  You stay in the modern and luxurious Ocean view rooms which provide you with space, convenience and uninterrupted views of the beach.

Today, take in the natural beauty of the Hokitika Gorge on a short walk descending through the hardwood forest that will lead you to a swing bridge which crosses the Hokitika River. Continue north to Greymouth, home of Monteith’s Brewing Co. where you will sample locally brewed beers over lunch. This afternoon travel along the Great Coast Road to the world-famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Punakaiki (Superior Room)

• Situated in Paparoa National Park just 300 meters from the magnificent Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, Scenic Hotel Punakaiki offers comfortable, environmentally friendly accommodation. Enjoy beach views, spacious & modern studio units with an ensuite. 

Journey north along the coast to Tauranga Bay and Cape Foulwind, named by Captain Cook in 1770 when he encountered nasty weather. A short walk along the rocky headland will showcase the rugged coastline and sea life often on show amongst the rocks. Travel inland via the Buller Gorge and Murchison to Nelson, one of the sunniest cities in New Zealand. This afternoon enjoy a visit to the Nelson Classic Car Museum where you will marvel at an incredible collection of iconic cars. This is followed by an orientation tour of the city.

Staying in Hotel Rutherford Hotel (Premium Room) (2 nights)

• Rutherford Hotel Nelson is superbly located in central Nelson, with all of the amenities you would expect from a city only a short walk away.  You will be welcomed by a team dedicated to excellence in service and with the aim to exceed your expectations and create an atmosphere where you can be somewhere special.  The stylish and well-appointed Premium rooms come complete with the following features.

Travel to Kaiteriteri, gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park and join a cruise along the parks’ picturesque coastline. At Anchorage Bay lunch will be served. Re-join your coach and depart for Nelson via the vineyards. This evening is free for you to dine at one of the local restaurants in town.

Staying in Hotel Rutherford Hotel (Premium Room)

• Rutherford Hotel Nelson is superbly located in central Nelson, with all of the amenities you would expect from a city only a short walk away.  You will be welcomed by a team dedicated to excellence in service and with the aim to exceed your expectations and create an atmosphere where you can be somewhere special.  The stylish and well-appointed Premium rooms come complete with the following features.

Today travel via Havelock and the wine-growing region of Marlborough. Visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, home to one of the largest private collections of WW1 Aircraft, brought to life in sets created by the internationally acclaimed WingNut Films and Weta Workshop. Head back into town where you will enjoy lunch at a local Blenheim beer garden. Re-board the coach for a relaxing drive through the diverse landscapes of this iconic region, before arriving at the hotel for a restful two-night stay.

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Marlborough (2 nights)

• Magnificently located in the heart of Marlborough Wine country, the place famous for its world class Sauvignon Blancs, the Scenic Hotel Marlborough is a property sparkling with style and comfort. This pristine hotel offers guests the ultimate in modern comfort and service all within a minutes’ walk from the centre of Blenheim.   

Enjoy a leisurely start to the day before travelling to Picton where time is available to explore this picturesque port. Cruise from Picton Marina to the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound, while enjoying informative commentary on this remarkable region, enroute to Furneaux Lodge. At Furneaux Lodge a delicious lunch will be served followed by time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. There is access to kayaks and short walks around the property. On the return cruise to Picton a cheese platter featuring local produce is served accompanied by a glass of Marlborough wine, the perfect end to your Marlborough Sounds adventure. Board the coach for the short journey back to Blenheim where the evening is free to dine at one of the local restaurants.

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Marlborough

• Magnificently located in the heart of Marlborough Wine country, the place famous for its world class Sauvignon Blancs, the Scenic Hotel Marlborough is a property sparkling with style and comfort. This pristine hotel offers guests the ultimate in modern comfort and service all within a minutes’ walk from the centre of Blenheim.   

Farewell the Marlborough region and journey to Kaikōura. Visit the Kaikōura Museum, which features an exhibition depicting the impact of the 2016 earthquake. This afternoon you may like to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the coastline to see the many species of whales that migrate through this area.

Depart Kaikōura and head to Christchurch to visit the International Antarctic Centre, designed to provide an informative account of life in Antarctica. This evening enjoy a pre-dinner drink and reminisce on memories shared with your new friends at the farewell dinner.

Staying in Hotel Distinction Christchurch Hotel

• Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey 4.5 star hotel offers refurbished Classic Rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.

Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.