Canterbury Wildlife

Canterbury Wildlife

7 Day Self Drive | Christchurch and Canterbury

This self-drive highlights some of New Zealand's most unique wildlife attractions, including the majestic sperm whales which inhabit the waters just off Kaikoura all year round, plus the playful Hector's dolphins at the Banks Peninsula. Make sure you don't miss out on a relaxing dip in the famed hot pools at Hanmer Springs en route too.

Standard Accommodation from £744 per person

Superior Accommodation from £860 per person

Prices are per person and include six nights twin share accommodation, an information pack, Whale Watch Cruise, Dolphin Swim and are based on a Group B car hire

Based on twin share

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Itinerary

DAY 1: CHRISTCHURCH

On arrival in Christchurch spend the remainder of the day at leisure.

DAY 2: CHRISTCHURCH - KAIKOURA

Leave Christchurch and follow the scenic, winding road north towards the seaside town of Kaikoura. Nestled on the rugged east coast, a two night stay here is arranged.

DAY 3: KAIKOURA WHALEWATCH CRUISE

The Kaikoura coastline attracts a wide variety of marine wildlife, including the majestic sperm whales which can be seen all year round, along with fur seals, soaring albatross and endangered Hector's dolphins.

DAY 4: KAIKOURA - HANMER SPRINGS

Leave the coast behind and head into the mountains and the popular alpine resort of Hanmer Springs to unwind in the famed thermal hot pools.

DAY 5: HANMER SPRINGS - AKAROA

From Hanmer Springs return to the rolling green Canterbury Plains, bypassing Christchurch to continue via the Banks Peninsula to the quaint, French inspired settlement of Akaroa, nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano.

DAY 6: AKAROA DOLPHIN SWIM AND CRUISE

Today enjoy an incredible experience as you join the harbour cruise, with the added bonus of the opportunity to swim with the friendly Hector's dolphins that populate the waters here.

DAY 7: RETURN TO CHRISTCHURCH

Today return to Christchurch for your onward flight, or alternatively speak to your Travel Designer about extending your South Island adventure!

Accommodation

Standard Accommodation: Christchurch - Terra Vive Luxury Motor Lodge (Executive Studio); Kaikoura - Bella Vista (Standard Queen); Hanmer Springs - Tussock Peak (Studio); Akaroa - Tresori Motor Lodge (Studio Spa)

Superior Accommodation: Christchurch - Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square (Executive Room); Kaikoura - Fairways at Ocean Ridge (One Bedroom Apartment); Hanmer Springs - Heritage Hotel Hanmer Springs (Superior Room); Akaroa - Tresori Motor Lodge (Executive Double Studio Spa)

Essential information

Please Note: Itinerary valid from 1st April 2018 and may alter prior to this. Prices are per person and include six nights twin share accommodation, an information pack, Whale Watch Cruise, Dolphin Swim at Akaroa and are based on a Group B car hire. Accommodation, board basis and prices are subject to change with availability. Minimum nights and surcharges apply on some properties on certain dates. Driving times and distances are approximate. (CH9)

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