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This itinerary is full of adventure! Kayak the green-blue waters of Abel Tasman, discover the ice-cold beauty of the West Coast’s glaciers and jump on board an iconic train journey.
Begin in Nelson, a region famed for its stunning coastline, high number of sunshine hours and vibrant arts and culinary scenes.
Get on your hired bike and conquer part of the Great Taste Trail. Traversing waterside pathways and pretty vineyards, the full ride takes four days but can be explored in short sections. In the evening retreat to your boutique accommodation within easy reach of the city centre.
Spend today in New Zealand’s smallest national park, taking one of the scheduled water taxis from Kaiteriteri or Marahau. Discover the golden beaches and peaceful coves by water with a guided sunrise waka (canoe) tour (not bookable through Explore). Remember to keep your eyes peeled for seals, dolphins and little penguins.
Collect your rental car from Nelson Airport and embark on a 4.5 hour drive to Hokitika on the wild West Coast. Break up the journey with a detour to Lake Rotoiti within the Nelson Lakes National Park and snap a photo of the stunning setting.
Spend a night at your adults-only accommodation 10-minutes north of Hokitika. Additional accommodation options are also available (not bookable through Explore).
Get an early start and drive two hours south to Franz Josef Glacier. With activities for all adrenaline levels, choose how you want to spend your time on the ice whether it’s low-impact glacier landing or a thrilling ice climb. It’s strongly recommended to spend two nights in the region as these experiences are weather dependent.
Stay overnight in Franz Josef town (accommodation options not bookable through Explore).
Be immersed in nature during a scenic cruise of Lake Mapourika or opt for a sunset kayaking tour led by passionate guides. Set within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is an area rich in birdlife.
Experience conservation in action, head to a local wildlife centre and spot rowi, the rarest species of kiwi on a behind-the-scenes tour. Be aware that spaces on the tour are limited and must be booked in advance. Spend the night in Franz Josef.
Return to Greymouth and drop off your rental car, arriving in time for the afternoon departure on one of the world’s greatest train journeys through the Southern Alps. Let your jaw drop as you take in the spectacular scenery and upgrade to a premium experience to enjoy seasonal cuisine and beverages.
You’ll arrive into Christchurch in the evening so you may want to spend the night before returning home or heading to another destination within New Zealand.
Most experiences mentioned in this itinerary can be booked through the Explore New Zealand Discount Programme.