Christchurch-Blenheim 8-day leisure loop
6 cities |
28 attraction(s) |
total distance 518
km
TIPS
Day1
Day2
Day3
Day4
Day5
Day6
Day7
Day8
Day1: Christchurch
5 attraction(s) ·
4 km
1
The Canterbury Museum is located in the center of Christchurch, and its exterior is a grand European-style building. The museum has exhibition halls that showcase New Zealand's history, nature, Māori culture, and art, as well as many Antarctic-related themes such as lifelike sculptures of emperor penguins and the Coracle, a lifeboat used by the survivors of a shipwreck on Disappointment Island in 1907. There are also many bird specimens from the South Pacific. Until July 2015, there was a special exhibition called Quake City (admission fee of 10 New Zealand dollars for adults), where you can learn about the impact of several major earthquakes on Christchurch since September 2010 and gain a deeper understanding of the city.
1
km
2
This 300,000 square meters of green land by the Avon River is undoubtedly the most comfortable and pleasant place in Christchurch. With over ten thousand different plants, the park displays various colors in different seasons, creating a stunning spectacle. Whether it's the elderly, children, couples, or friends, strolling in the botanical garden or having a cup of coffee at the cafe inside the park is the best way to experience this "Garden City." The visitor information center is located between the botanical garden and Canterbury Museum, where any questions can be promptly addressed.
2
km
3
The cathedral, located in the city center of Christchurch, was once a landmark building, but it was damaged in the earthquakes in 2010 and 2011. It is still replaced by cold scaffolding instead of the original elegant Gothic spire. Travelers can see the abandoned cathedral after the earthquake through the fence. Although there is still no consensus on whether to rebuild the cathedral, how to rebuild it, or whether to maintain the post-earthquake appearance, Cathedral Square remains a leisure place for the people of Christchurch. The artistic leisure chairs, western-style chessboard, inverted cone sculpture, colorful murals, weekend street performances, and the old tram parked on one side still make this square full of artistic atmosphere.
1
km
4
Imagine yourself sitting in a flat-bottomed boat, cruising in the Avon River, with groups of ducks swimming past you. You gaze at the river shimmering with red light under the sunset, and can't help but sigh, how beautiful it is!
2
km
5
The Cardboard Cathedral is located in Christchurch, New Zealand. It is a transitional Anglican church and was opened in August 2013. It was designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, who won the Pritzker Architecture Prize in 2014. The cathedral can accommodate up to 700 people. The altar stands at over 21 meters (69 feet) and is made of materials including cardboard tubes with a diameter of 60 centimeters (24 inches), wood, and steel. The roof is made of carbon fiber and eight shipping containers.
Day2: Greymouth
1 attraction(s) ·
0 km
1
Arthur's Pass is the highest elevated pass in the central Southern Alps of the South Island of New Zealand, reaching an altitude of 923 meters. Arthur's Pass Village is also the highest elevated town, located 100 kilometers (a one-hour drive) from Greymouth and serves as the entrance to the national park. There are over 20 mountains with altitudes exceeding 2,000 meters, making it a popular destination for skiing and hiking. It is also a must-stop for the TranzAlpine train journey from Christchurch to Greymouth, offering convenient transportation options and a variety of accommodation choices.
Day3: Greymouth > Westport
4 attraction(s) ·
122 km
1
Just like Neilson's Founders Heritage Park, this is also an artificial town resembling a movie set, recreating Greymouth in the 1960s during the gold rush. Here you can take a train ride, visit museums, have a drink at a bar, and even try real gold panning. It's a great place for both learning and entertainment, ideal for family outings.
30
km
2
The distance from Greymouth is less than half an hour, and there are many beautiful arches, like the Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road in Australia.
85
km
3
Cape Foulwind, located about 10 kilometers from Westport, is great for hiking and offers opportunities to see seals.
8
km
4
Cape Foulwind Seal Colony is a year-round seal-viewing spot. It takes a ten-minute walk along a flat path to reach the spacious lookout, which is easily accessible to wheelchair users. The signs on the lookout explain the habitat and breeding cycle of the seals, as well as the history of the banned seal hunting industry in New Zealand. The name Cape Foulwind was given by Captain James Cook, who encountered severe weather here in 1770. But now the situation is quite the opposite, with a moderate climate and calm seas, making it a delightful place to spend several hours enjoying the adorable seals.
Day4: Nelson
5 attraction(s) ·
115 km
1
"Dimrill Dale" in the trilogy "The Lord of the Rings" is based on Kahurangi National Park in the northwest end of the South Island. The stunning rock formations of Mt Owen caught the director's eye and was selected as a filming location. Although the set has since been removed, visitors can still take helicopter tours provided by the local Reed Helicopters company to explore the area. Some employees of the helicopter company are still interested in discussing behind-the-scenes stories of the filming of The Lord of the Rings, as the company was involved in location scouting and filming.
111
km
2
Nelson Christ Church is one of the main churches in the Nelson area. It is a grey marble building located on a hill in the city center. Despite holding worship services every Sunday at 7 pm, the church still follows the traditional Anglican (Church of England) practices. From the steps of the church, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city center and walk down the slope on the west side to explore the well-preserved historical street, South St, where you can discover some artistic shops and galleries.
2
km
3
The Geographical Centre Monument of New Zealand is located on the top of Botanical Hill, and is one of the most famous landmarks in Nelson. Enjoying the scenery below the mountain at the geographical center of New Zealand would be a unique experience, and you can also learn about some related Nelson history here.
2
km
4
When you walk along the Maitai River towards the Center of NZ, you will pass by this beautiful Queen's Garden. It is located on the east side of the city center and is a great place for a walk. In the northwest corner of the garden, there is a nice gallery called Suter Art Gallery (208 Bridge Street, open Monday to Sunday from 10:30 to 16:30, donation entry) and Suter Art Café. The northeast corner is a small Chinese garden opened in 2007 to commemorate the friendly relations between Huangshi City, Hubei Province, China, and Nelson.
2
km
5
Explore the beauty of nature on an overnight trip lasting 2 to 5 days. Stay in our seaside cabins located in national parks, kayak leisurely on the sheltered south coast, and stroll along secluded northern beaches. A safety backup boat is provided. Departure point is Kaiteriteri, with shuttle services available from Nelson and Motueka.
Day5: Blenheim > Nelson
3 attraction(s) ·
106 km
1
OMAKA Aviation Heritage Centre offers not only the astonishing Knights of the Sky exhibition but also a vast collection of World War I fighter planes and artifacts from Sir Peter Jackson's private collection. The renowned WingNut Films and Weta Workshop vividly depict the sky legends of the time with their meticulously crafted sets.
Guided tours can be arranged upon request, or you are free to explore at your own pace. Please allow at least 1 hour for museum visit, then take a stroll in the exquisite gift shop or enjoy a cup of rich coffee and a piece of cake for a relaxing break. Listen to the glorious achievements of the Red Baron and you'll be filled with enthusiasm, longing to take off in an open cockpit. If that's the case, put on your helmet and goggles and soar the skies aboard a Boeing Stearman vintage aircraft!
2
km
2
Wither Hill Winery was originally privately owned but now belongs to Lion Nathan beer company. Professional staff from the winery lead tours for visitors every morning at 11 o'clock.
104
km
3
Nelson Lakes National Park is one of the fourteen national parks in New Zealand, with well-preserved natural landscapes. The park consists of mountains separated by forested valleys, making it suitable for hikers and climbers of different fitness levels.
According to Maori legend, these lakes were dug by Maori chief Rakaihautu with his digging shovel. One pit became Lake Rotoiti (small lake), and the other became Lake Rotorua (large lake). The park is famous for its magical beech forest, which nurtures many native birds that feed on sweet flower nectar. It is an ideal wilderness retreat. The nearby village of St. Arnaud provides comfortable and well-equipped accommodation for visitors.
Nelson Lakes National Park, with its magnificent scenery, is enhanced by the presence of grand glaciers, showcasing its grandeur. Many of these glaciers formed during the most recent ice age. Many rivers still exhibit glacial features - Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotorua being two of the best examples.
Day6: Kaikoura
3 attraction(s) ·
144 km
1
Local residents' weekend vacation spots, the hot springs here are very similar to those in China, with many pools and additional entertainment facilities at an extra cost.
137
km
2
Kaikoura has many secrets, and the lavender garden is one of them. Walking along the paths in the garden, the scent of flowers fills the air, immersing oneself in the beautiful purple flower sea is a wonderful experience. There is also a lavender product shop on the estate, where many products are made from the lavender harvested in the garden, including lavender-flavored ice cream. If you can't bear to leave, you can choose to stay in one of the cottages in the garden, which will surely have a unique flavor.
7
km
3
Keikura Farm Park has over 100 species of animals, and visitors can get up close to observe, touch, and feed them, experiencing the unique and traditional atmosphere of a free-range farm. Visitors can bring a picnic or barbecue to the park and enjoy their meals in comfortable designated areas while admiring the beautiful Phi Phi scenery. There is also a small cafe in the park selling hot and cold drinks as well as some handmade cakes and cookies.
Day7: Kaikoura
5 attraction(s) ·
6 km
1
The Keikoura Museum is located inside the new Parliament Building, adjacent to the library. The museum exhibits many historical pictures, artifacts from the Māori and colonial peoples, giant jawbone of a sperm whale, and fossils of plesiosaurs.
1
km
2
This is a natural wildlife scenic area where you can see animals such as seals.
4
km
3
In today's New Zealand, we go out to sea to watch whales, but the early European settlers in Kaikoura made a living by whaling. The Fyffe House, built 160 years ago, is the first European-style building in Kaikoura. It is famous for its long history and some of its foundations are made of whale bones. These whale bones come from the southern right whales that were hunted and killed in the bay in front of the old house. By visiting this building, you can learn about the lives of the people who once lived here and discover how Kaikoura's past subtly influences the future of the town!
2
km
4
Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway allows you to easily explore the beautiful scenery and various wildlife of Kaikoura Peninsula. You can choose to complete the trail in half a day or a full day. If time is limited, you can choose to spend 25 minutes to the Whalers Bay viewpoint to experience the first part of the trail. At any point along the trail, you can personally experience the magnificent views where the sea meets the mountains. In Kaikoura, the Peninsula Walkway is a must-visit for budget travelers who enjoy photography and hiking.
1
km
5
Kaikoura is a gateway to marine wildlife in New Zealand, with over 5,000 New Zealand fur seals living in coastal areas. The seal colony here has also been rated as the third most popular landmark tourist attraction in New Zealand by trip advisor! How do the people of New Zealand harmoniously coexist with the wildlife? Come and experience it firsthand in Kaikoura!
Day8: Christchurch
2 attraction(s) ·
24 km
1
This is a complex of buildings near the main station at the airport, established for managing Antarctic research projects for New Zealand, the United States, and Italy. It is also a science museum and knowledge center that children will love. Here, you can learn about the history and geology of Antarctica, as well as see specimens collected underwater. A highlight is the "Antarctic Storm Chamber," which allows you to experience the cold of the icy continent firsthand. Inside the center, you can also take a Hagglund Ride, an off-road adventure experience.
24
km
2
This is a seaside suburb located 12 kilometers southeast of Christchurch. It is a great place for relaxation and leisure. Many houses here are built on hilltops and some of them have a history of over a hundred years. Many houses are in a dangerous situation after earthquakes, but the owners still stay strong. It may be dangerous, but it is also thrilling. There are various food restaurants available and the bars are lively at night. You can also choose to watch a movie. It is recommended to stay in Sumner for one or two nights. There are many backpacker hostels and hotels here. During the day, you can take a bus to explore Christchurch, and at night, you can return to the comfortable and pleasant seaside. In the summer, you can also go surfing on the beach here.
If you have time, you may want to visit Taylor's Mistake Beach. It takes about an hour's walk from Sumner towards the sea on a small hillside road. You can explore Godley Beach Park along Taylor's Mistake Bay, where you will encounter countless beautiful scenery. There are also World War I war relics such as forts and air raid shelters, which are well-preserved. Along the way, you can also see two historic stone houses, Rosy Morn and Stone End, which are simple yet exquisite.
