7 Day – Central Explorer
This tour explores the top half of the South Island. Geographically located in the centre of New Zealand this region is a diverse landscape famous for clear waters, golden beaches, lush forests, native wildlife, national parks, snow capped peaks and stunning coastlines. Visit Golden Bay, the place where New Zealanders take their holidays, then onto Greymouth to follow the gold trails from days gone by. For a once in a life time experience, whale watching in Kaikoura is highly recommended.
Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island and it is also considered the most English City. It is a relaxing, tranquil place with a range of attractions on offer. Enjoy a punt down the Avon river, a walk in Hagley Park or perhaps visit the arts centre, museums and botanical gardens before starting your seven day tour.
Destination Guide | Motor Parks & Campsites | Accomodation
From Christchurch head East towards the Arthur's Pass National Park, an impressive and stunning drive. Along the way you'll see forests, snow capped peaks, walking trails and waterfalls. This area is home to many species of rare wild life including the Kiwi and Kea birds. Greymouth is a large west Coast township known for it's awesome coastline.
The road from Greymouth to Nelson is a spectacular combination of bush covered mountains, frothy waves and rugged coastline. The area known as Punakaiki is famous for pancake rocks and stunning blow holes so there are plenty of photo opportunities. The dark forbidding Buller Gorge continues on to Lyell and Murchison before arriving at Nelson. Located in top of the South Island, Nelson is fortunate to have a mild climate all year round. It is the place many kiwis flock to for their Summer Holiday's. Nelson is a town packed with fine restaurants, cafes and some fantastic local art galleries.
From Nelson, Golden Bay and the Abel Tasman National Park are just a short drive away. This area is famous for golden sand beaches, native bush, wildlife, art and a warm climate. Walkers and hikers are spoilt for choice in the Abel Tasman region but it is also a haven for water sports and wildlife enthusiasts. Families and those simply seeking rest and relaxation also visit. The Abel Tasman is the ideal place to catch your breath and enjoy all that this region has to offer in the middle of your tour!
As you head out to the coastal highway towards Blenheim, you will be heading into the centre of the Marlbough Region where you can visit world famous vineyards and indulge in a tasting of two. Clearly you need to park up and stay overnight here as wine and driving are not a recommended combination!
From Blenheim keep an eye on the Eastern coastline where you may see seals basking on the rocks as you continue heading south towards Kaikoura. This Coastal town is one of the few places in the world you can experience whale watching by boat. We highly recommend a trip out onto the Pacific Ocean while visiting this area.
From Blenheim travel south towards the wine growing Waipara region stopping in Hanmer Springs. This alpine resort is set in stunning mountainous surroundings and is the ideal place to relax for a few hours. Unwind by taking a soak in natural thermally heated rock pools or indulge in a spa treatment at the hot pools before continuing your journey. On reaching Christchurch relax for a day or so in this tranquil, English city. Enjoy a punt down the Avon river or perhaps visit the arts centre and Botanical Gardens before delivering your motorhome back to the depot.