20 Day Auckland to Christchurch Luxury Boutique Hotels self drive

Ask our expert Chris Hawkins about the 20 Day Auckland to Christchurch Luxury Boutique Hotels self drive

Day 1
Private transfer Auckland airport
A private transfer will meet you from your flight and drive you to your Auckland accommodation.

Auckland City
Auckland City is New Zealand's largest, with a population of around 1.5 million people (about one third of the national population), spread over approximately 60 square kilometres. There is somewhere for every visitor to feel comfortable and right at home as each suburb has its own unique style and atmosphere, from the vibrant and trendy fashion and cuisine found on Ponsonby and Parnell Roads to the breathtaking native bush and beaches of the West Coast. One of the worlds great cities Auckland is full of life and opportunities to explore are endless. Spend the day exploring the city or relaxing before your adventure begins.
Your accommodation: Great Ponsonby Bed and Breakfast
This small hotel bed & breakfast is located in the heart of Auckland's Ponsonby district. A two minute stroll to the vibrant cafes bistros, restaurants, art and craft galleries and just five minutes by car to the harbourside and central Auckland.    

Day 2

Pick up Rental car - Toyota Corolla Intermediate Automatic or similar 
 
Explore Auckland and surrounds

There is so much to do in and around New Zealand's largest city. Sitting on one of the world's finest natural harbours there are countless opportunities to explore the islands of the gulf. Waiheke Island is a popular choice with its splendid beaches and vineyards. Just a short distance from the city centre is Rangitoto Island, the youngest of the volcanic cones that dot the region. Take a ferry over and enjoy the hike to the summit.
Auckland is known as the 'City of Sails' and taking the helm of an Americas Cup yacht with Sail NZ is a great way to experience the harbour. If you just want to relax and enjoy the nautical atmosphere then the Viaduct Basin has shops, cafes, restaurants and the Maritime Museum.
West Auckland offers a huge contrast to the busy modern city. The rainforest and beaches of the Waitakere Ranges are a great place to explore and there are many walks to enjoy. Muriwai Beach is a popular destination and you can see one of the worlds few mainland breeding colonies if the Australasian Gannet at the Takapo Refuge.
West Auckland also has some of New Zealand oldest wineries around the Kumeu and Waimauku regions. Auckland based Fine Wine Tours offer some great day trips that incorporate visits to the wineries and a chance to experience the wild west coast.
Your accommodation: Great Ponsonby Bed and Breakfast

Day 3
Auckland to Rotorua
The drive south from Auckland on State Highway 1 quickly takes you into rolling green farmland, the rich dairy pasture of the Waikato. New Zealand's longest river, the Waikato Riiver, guides you through Cambridge and the art and craft stores of Tirau. Arriving into the City of Rotorua the regions geothermal activity becomes evident as you see steam rising from the roadside and hills.
Rotorua is considered the Maori cultural centre and its here you can enjoy and experience some of their history. The Rotorua Museum is outstanding and one of its main presentations is the devastating eruption of Mt. Tarawera in 1886. Nearby Ohinemutu Village is the original site of the first Maori settlers in the area.
One of the most popular introductions for many to the Maori culture is through an evening at Tamaki Maori Village. A  recreated village pre-European times gives you an insight into the way of life before an evening of song, dance and entertainment. A dinner prepared in the traditional manner is served to finish the evening off.
Your accommodation: The Springs Rotorua
The Springs was purpose built in 1998. The design is that of a 1930's New Zealand bungalow ensuring the property complemented the already established neighbourhood.    

Driving Information
Auckland to Rotorua Distance
235 kilometres : 3 1/4 hours

Day 4 
Explore Rotorua and surrounds
Rotorua sits right in the centre of the worlds most volcanically active region and this is highly evident through the smell of sulphur. No visit to Rotorua would be complete without visiting one of the many geothermal parks or areas. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is around 30 minutes from Rotorua and here a network of paths will take you though bubbling pool, sulphur ponds, geysers and waterfalls. Formed during the eruption of Mt. Tarawera was the Waimangu Volcanic Valley and you can also stroll amongst hot springs and enjoy a short boat cruise in the world's newest geothermal eco system.
The Buried Village or the village of Te Wairoa was destroyed during the Tarawera eruption. Now this registered historic area has been excavated to show original buildings pre eruption. Set amongst beautiful bush there is also a dedicated museum telling the fascinating story of Te Wairoa Village and the legendary Pink and White Terraces.
White Island sits around 40 kilometres off the Bay of Plenty coast and is still one the most active volcanoes in the world. Volcanic Air Safaris offer scenic helicopter and float plane trips to the island and the opportunity to land (helicopter only) and explore the original sulphur mines. They also offer scenic flights over Mt. Tarawera and float plane flights to Orakei Korako Hidden Valley.
Rotorua though also offers much more than this. The lake is stocked with trout and fishing charters operate from the lake front. The Agrodome offers a unique New Zealand experience combining farm tours and sheep shearing shows with the opportunity to enjoy some of the adrenalin packed adventures New Zealand is renown for.
Your accommodation: The Springs Rotorua

Day 5
Rotorua to Napier
This drive takes you through the thermal regions south of Rotorua. Wai-O-Tapu, Waimangu and Craters of the Moon near Taupo to name just a few locations you can visit. Approaching Taupo signs direct you to Huka Falls, a spectacular sight as the full force of the lake pours through a narrow gorge forming the Waikato River. Here you can take a thrilling Hukajet boat ride or enjoy a lunch of fresh prawns raised in naturally heated thermal pools.  The road from Taupo climbs high onto the plateau crossing the Ahiminawa Range before arriving onto the Pacific Coast just north of the worlds finest art deco city of Napier.
Your accommodation: Greenhill Lodge
Greenhill Lodge is truly a luxury lodge offering luxury accommodation in the heart of Hawke's Bay. Your New Zealand hosts will help you to experience the delights of this sunny wine growing region and to enjoy the opulence and tranquillity this luxury lodge affords.    

Driving Information
Rotorua to Napier Distance
223 kilometres : 3 1/4 hours

Day 6
Explore Napier and the Hawke's Bay
The Hawke's Bay is home to some of New Zealand finest wineries and there are ample tours to show you around while you sample the produce. Napier has a remarkable history. Destroyed by an earthquake it was rebuilt at the height of the art deco period and the city is teeming with fine buildings.
Enjoy a city tour in a car from the era or explore the museum. Cape Kidnappers is home to one of the few mainland gannet colonies and a trip along the beach by tractor is a unique way to see these incredible birds in their natural habitat.

Napier City

Napier, the city by the sea, is renowned for its 1930s Art Deco architecture, events such as the Art Deco Weekend in February, stately Norfolk pines, surrounding wineries and local fresh produce. Supported by a Mediterranean climate and over 2,200 hours of sunshine a year this popular year-round destination boasts a vibrant cafe culture amongst the splendour of the Art Deco buildings.
Around 30 cafes are within walking distance of the central city area, while Ahuriri, just over Bluff Hill, is home to a further cluster of up market establishments. Marine Parade overlooks the Pacific Ocean and out towards Cape Kidnappers, home to the world's largest mainland gannet colony. A full day can be taken visiting Ocean Spa hot pools and swimming complex, the Hawke's Bay Museum and the National Aquarium of New Zealand.
A landmark of Napier is Bluff Hill, which is home for many Napier residents and provides views of the town,  beaches of Perfume Point and Westshore and out towards Whirinaki. Bluff Hill also overlooks the Port of Napier, one of New Zealand's busiest ports, transporting timber, local fruit and meat products to worldwide destinations.
In 1931, New Zealand's greatest natural disaster struck Hawke's Bay. At 10.47am on Tuesday February 3rd, an earthquake of magnitude Richter 7.8 struck. In a minute and a half, in two separate shocks, the centre of Napier was almost totally destroyed. Fires quickly broke out and reduced to ashes or gutted what the tremors had left standing. Damage in Hastings was also devastating, although the fires were contained. Wairoa and the smaller towns to the south as far as Dannevirke were affected. There were 258 deaths - 162 in Napier, 93 in Hastings and 3 in Wairoa along with many injuries. The reconstruction of Napier and Hastings were costly but the benefit was two modern cities and the Ahuriri Lagoon, or Inner Harbour as it was usually known, was raised over 2 metres, creating the land, which Napier desperately needed to expand.
Your accommodation: Greenhill Lodge

Day 7
Napier to Wellington City
The rolling countryside of the Hawke's Bay lead you into some of the countries richest farmland around the Manawatu region. Passing along the Manawatu Gorge the Wairarapa welcomes you. Masterton is home to the golden shears sheep shearing competition while just further south Greytown boasts the largest concentration of historic wooden buildings in the country. Nearby Martinborough is home to dozens of boutique wineries. The route takes you over the Rimutaka Range and along the magnificent natural harbour that the capital city of Wellington sits upon.
Your accommodation: Bolton Hotel Wellington
The Bolton Hotel is a contemporary apartment hotel in the heart of Wellington's CBD. This hotel has 142 guest rooms and suites are furnished in a contemporary style and feature Sky Digital television, movies on demand, high-speed Internet (including WiFi), a personal bar, and air-conditioning.    

Driving Information
Napier to Wellington Distance
334 kilometres : 4 3/4 hours

Day 8
Wellington City
New Zealand's capital, Wellington, sits on a large natural harbour at the bottom of the North Island. First explored in 1826 by Captain Herd, the deep water harbour is consider one of the finest in the world and this point was a major factor in the decision to site the first organised settlement of the New Zealand Company here.
"Windy Wellington" is often buffeted by strong winds whipped up in the Cook Strait, the stretch of water separating the North and South Islands. It is the worlds southern most capital city and the only city in the world that lies within the "roaring forties" latitudes.
The mix of modern high rise, colonial historic and wonderful timber villas that cling to the hillsides give the city a true diversity and a fitting mix for a capital with a rich history. The executive offices of Parliament are one of the more well known landmarks in the city and the nickname "The Beehive" is very apt. Government Buildings opposite the beehive is one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. Restored to its 1876 glory it's now open to the public.
Wellington is also home to a selection of great museums such as Te Papa, New Zealand's national museum (not to be missed), The National Library and the Museum of Wellington City and Sea.
For some great views of the city and the harbour take the Cable Car from Lambton Quay up into the hills of Kelburn, 130 metres above the city. The ride terminates in the botanic gardens, a 26 hectare park with rose, fern, succulents, exotic trees and native forest displays.
Another great vantage point is Mt. Victoria. If you're felling energetic take a stroll along the waterfront cafes of oriental bay and walk to the top of the hill. Great views across to the Hutt Valley can be enjoyed. The cannon on the summit dates back to 1877.
Wellington has excellent shopping, theatre, cafes and restaurants and being only 2 kilometres wide the majority can easily be explored on foot. The capital's proximity to the sea, the mountains of the Rimutakas and Tararuas, the rolling countryside and wine regions of the Wairarapa provide a myriad of opportunities for adventure or relaxation.
Just around 1 1/2 hours drive east is the town of Martinborough. This boutique wine growing area is a popular destination to enjoy some tasting tours or a relaxing lunch. The Cape Palliser Coastline is also one of New Zealand's most rugged regions and is a haven for wildlife.
A great way to see the city sights is on a Flat Earth half day sightseeing tour or a Lord of the Rings tour.
Your accommodation: Bolton Hotel Wellington
The Bolton Hotel is a contemporary apartment hotel in the heart of Wellington's CBD. This hotel has 142 guest rooms and suites are furnished in a contemporary style and feature Sky Digital television, movies on demand, high-speed Internet (including WiFi), a personal bar, and air-conditioning.    

Day 9
Interislander ferry Wellington to Picton

The 92 km journey between Wellington and Picton takes around 3 hours and has been described as 'one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world'. Leaving Wellington Harbour you pass many interesting points such as Pencarrow Head on top of which is New Zealand's oldest lighthouse (1859). Red Rocks is home to a seal colony and Oterangi Bay is the site which recorded the countries highest ever wind speed of 268 kph (167 mph). From the Cook Strait spectacular views of the Kaikoura Ranges on the South Island can be enjoyed and dolphins and many sea birds are often seen. Around one hour of the cruise takes you through the Marlborough Sounds. This region of bush covered mountains, small islands, crystal clear waters and secluded bays is a true photographic opportunity. Arriving in Picton at the end of Queen Charlotte Sound the cruise comes to an end in this picturesque town.

Wellington to Blenheim

After dropping your rental car at the terminal depot you board the Interislander Ferry crossing the Cook Strait and onto the South Island. The 3 hour crossing is often compared to a miniature cruise and as you leave the protection of Wellington harbour you are often rewarded with distant views of the mountains around Kaikoura on the east coast. Entering Queen Charlotte Sound the final 1 hour leg of the journey is spectacular as you gently negotiate the calm waters. Bush clad hills and remote holiday homes drift by as you head into Picton harbour.
On arrival into Picton you collect your South Island vehicle from the terminal depot.
Blenheim sits right at the heart of the New Zealand's largest wine producing region, Marlborough, and is ideally located to enjoy an afternoon sampling the local produce. A great way to do this is to take a guided wine tour with Sounds Connection Wine Tours.
Your accommodation: The Peppertree
The Peppertree is situated in the midst of an extensive country garden a boutique vineyard and an olive grove. Choose from one of the five spacious suites, each of which reflects a different character. Days at The Peppertree begin with a delicious breakfast, served in the Dining Room or on the verandah.    

Driving Information
Picton to Blenheim Distance
30 kilometres : 1/2 hours

Day 10
Blenheim to Kaikoura
Crossing the ‘dry hills’ of the Marlborough ranges you head towards one of the most spectacular coastlines of the South Island, the Kaikoura Coast. The road hugs the shore for around 50 kilometres and offers many chances to view the native wildlife such as seabirds and New Zealand fur seals. To the east is the turquoise of the South Pacific Ocean and to the west the towering Kaikoura Ranges. Kaikoura Township is a bustling little place with many cafes, restaurants and shops but the main reason for visiting here is the wildlife.
Whale Watch Kaikoura is New Zealand's only marine-based whale watching company offering visitors an exciting up-close encounter with the Giant Sperm Whale at all times of the year.Kaikoura is New Zealand's world famous whale watching destination. Sperm Whales can be seen here year-round while depending on the season you may also see migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales.
Another great Kaikoura activity is Swimming with the Seals. Donning a wet suit you have the opportunity to interact with these inquisitive creatures on their terms.
Wings over Whales also offer tours from fixed wing aircraft to view the whales and other marine creatures from 500 feet in the air.
Your accommodation: Hapuku Lodge
Hapuku Lodge was built to give guests a great night's sleep in one the most beautiful places in the world. The Lodge sits tight between the mountains and the ocean, on a deer stud and olive farm.    

Driving Information
Blenheim to Kaikoura Distance
128 kilometres : 1 3/4 hours

Day 11 
Kaikoura to Christchurch
The drive from Kaikoura to Christchurch continues to follow the spectacular coastline before heading inland and through North Canterbury’s major wine region, the Waipara Valley. You are also introduced you to the South Island’s most numerous inhabitant, the sheep. A great detour to take is the side trip to Hanmer Springs for a relaxing dip in the thermal pools.
Arriving into Christchurch City puts you close to the airport and the International Antarctic Centre and a visit is highly recommended. Here you can get as close to experiencing life on the frozen continent without actually visiting plus see New Zealand little blue penguins and ride in a Haaglund Tracked vehicle.
Your accommodation: Elizas Manor on Bealey
Eliza's Manor on Bealey B&B hotel offers bed & breakfast accommodation with personal service. Each bedroom combines historic ambience with modern conveniences to create a quality experience. This 4 star qualmark rated property is just 1 1/2 kilometres from Cathedral Square.    

Driving Information
Kaikoura to Christchurch Distance
183 kilometres : 2 1/2 hours

Day 12 
Explore Christchurch City and surrounds
Christchurch's compact city centre is best explored on foot or by taking the hop-on, hop-off historic trams.
Amongst the not to be missed attractions is the International Antarctic Centre. Christchurch is the base from which many Antarctic programmes host their supply operations. The International Antarctic Centre offers the visitor a unique insight into life on the frozen continent. You can view little blue penguins that have been rescued and given a new home as well as taking a ride in the impressive Haaglund tracked vehicle.
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve lets you experience New Zealand native birds including the kiwi, plus other animals up close.
Getting a little further out you can also enjoy a Christchurch Wildlife Cruise. Departing from Lyttelton this two hour trip offers you the chance to see the rare hectors dolphins in their natural environment.
For an evening like no other the Tamaki Heritage Village takes you back in time to the when European and Maori first met. This interactive outdoor theatre is designed to let you see, hear, smell and feel the atmosphere and tensions that arose during this time. The evening finishes off with a sumptuous and plentiful dinner prepared in the traditional Maori hangi style.
Your accommodation: Elizas Manor on Bealey

Day 13
Christchurch to Mt. Cook National Park
Today you head into the heart of the South Island. Crossing the vast Canterbury Plains along the inland scenic route the first township of Geraldine offers an ideal refreshment stop before you head into Mackenzie country.

Passing through places such as Beautiful Valley it's not hard to understand where the names originate. Ascending Burkes Pass and onto the high country plateau and the picturesque town of Lake Tekapo, the first of the large Southern Lakes. It's a great place to take a scenic flight, enjoy a guided horse trek, a boat trip on the pristine lake or just enjoy the magnificent views.

Lake Pukaki is just another 30 minutes from Lake Tekapo and its from here you can be rewarded with spectacular views the full length of the lake and into Mt. Cook National Park. In Mt. Cook Village a myriad of activities are available from glacier landings by ski plane or helicopter, kayaking on a glacial lake and a host of walks to suit all abilities and time frames. At The Hermitage Hotel the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre is a must see.
Your accommodation: Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki Wing
The Hermitage Hotel ringed by magnificent snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, is a world-renowned tourist destination and has been an icon of superior accommodation and dining since 1884. Aoraki Wing room - top 3 floors.    

Driving Information
Christchurch to Mt. Cook Distance
342 Kilometres: 4 1/2 hours:

Day 14
Mt. Cook National Park to Queenstown
Twizel, just south of Mt. Cook was the location of many Lord of the Rings movie scenes and a little further on is Omarama, the gliding capital of New Zealand. Wrinkly Rams is a local café and also offers an informative sheep shearing demonstration. The Lindis Pass is one of New Zealand’s highest roads with the summit reaching 971 metres. The tussock covered hills offer an unusual contrast as you pass from the Mackenzie Basin and into Central Otago.
Bendigo, just off the main highway, was one of Otago’s original gold mining settlements and well marked paths will guide you to explore the remains of stone cottages and other buildings from this bygone era.
Cromwell sits at the head of the Kawarau Gorge. Cromwell old town has restored buildings from before the valley was flooded to create Lake Dunstan for the hydro systems. The sheer cliffs of the Kawarau Gorge guide you towards Queenstown and the Gibbston Valley is one of New Zealand's premier wine growing regions. At the famous historic Kawarau Bridge you can take a bungy jump or just watch others if you would rather. Approaching Queenstown the impressive Remarkables mountain range come into view and then beautiful Lake Wakatipu as you head towards the alpine resort town of Queenstown, the adventure and activity capital of New Zealand.
Your accommodation: The Dairy
The Dairy is a small private luxury hotel providing exquisite bed and breakfast accommodation. Just 1 minutes walk from Queenstown centre it also features a large lounge and open fire, outdoor spa and a bar.    

Driving Information
Mt. Cook to Queenstown Distance
263 kilometres : 3 3/4 hours

Day 15 
Explore Queenstown and surrounds
Queenstown offers adventure for all tastes and abilities. From some of the more well know adrenalin sports such as bungy jumping and skydiving to the more sedate such as sampling the local wines or exploring the historic Chinese settlement at Arrowtown, there is something for everyone.
Sitting on the shores of Lake Wakatipu there are many water based activities to enjoy. The TSS Earnslaw is a rare working example of a steamship still operating and cruises take you to Walter Peak Station to enjoy a farm tour, lunch or a farmhouse dinner. The Kawarua Jet offers a slightly faster experience with thrilling one hour jet boat rides. Fishing and sailing are also possible here.
The Gibbston Vallley is a short drive from Queenstown and it's here you will find the vineyards producing some of the finest wines in New Zealand, particularly the Pinot Noir. Appellation Wine Tours have a choice of tour options to ensure you get to experience the best and of course have the chance to sample the vintages.
Arrowtown is a popular destination for many visitors to Queenstown. This historic gold mining town features many original buildings and now also boasts some great shopping. The Lakes District Museum is also here and ranks as one of the best in the country.
Nomad Safaris offer 4WD excursions in and around Queenstown to otherwise difficult locations such as Skippers Canyon and Mace Town. Informative guides share theirs and other locals stories of the region.
At the Head of the Lake sits Glenorchy. The 40 kilometre drive along the lake edge is worth the trip alone however arriving into this peaceful township you could easily rest the day away sitting on the shores of the lake. A great trip from here is the Dart River Wilderness Safari, by far the most scenic jet boat excursion in the country. A short walk amongst native beech forest plus a 4WD bus journey is capped off with over 1 1/2 hours and around 35 kilometres of exhilarating jet boat action as you head deep into Mt. Aspiring National Park.
Your accommodation: The Dairy

Day 16
Milford Sound Nature Cruise with return luxury coach transfers from Queenstown
Return luxury coach transport from Queenstown to Milford Sound, with an extended 2½ hour Nature Cruise along the full length of the fiord.
On boarding a Real Journeys luxury glass-roofed coach in Queenstown, you will enjoy a relaxing trip along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Te Anau. The coach driver provides an informative commentary. After a morning tea break in Te Anau, where you have the option of purchasing refreshments, the coach continues along the spectacular Milford Road. There is time for photo stops and short walks along the way.
On reaching Milford Sound, you board the Milford Mariner for a leisurely extended cruise of the fiord. The cruise provides excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time is available to enjoy waterfalls, rain forest, mountains and wildlife with extensive commentary by the on board nature guide.
Your accommodation: The Dairy
The Dairy is a small private luxury hotel providing exquisite bed and breakfast accommodation. Just 1 minutes walk from Queenstown centre it also features a large lounge and open fire, outdoor spa and a bar.    

Day 17
Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier
Crossing the Crown Range, the highest sealed road in the country, you arrive into the alpine town of Wanaka. The route follows the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea before you enter the township of Makarora, the gateway to Mt. Aspiring National Park and the Blue Pools here are a wonderful 30 minute walk through pristine native beech forest. Descending into Mt. Aspiring National Park and towards the Haast Pass, crashing rivers and waterfalls are around every corner. Crossing the Haast River you are now truly on the wild West Coast, a 600 kilometre stretch of bush, rainforest and podocarp forest. First Fox Glacier welcomes you to the glacier region and Franz Josef township is just a further 45 minutes.
A great way to experience the glaciers is with The Helicopter Line or Mt. Cook ski planes or in the township the Hukawai Glacier Centre offers an informative display and the chance to experience real ice climbing.
Your accommodation: Westwood Lodge
Westwood is a purpose built lodge, crafted entirely from wood and exquisitely decorated throughout. The lounge is the place to meet to watch the Southern Alps turn a soft pink in the setting sun.    

Driving Information
Queenstown to Franz Josef Distance
404 kilometres : 5 3/4 hours

Day 18
Explore Franz Josef Glacier
The main attraction in Franz Josef is of course the glacier. Very few places in the world have such large glaciers almost at sea level and even more unusually is that the lower slopes are amongst rain forest.
Franz Josef Glacier Guides have a great choice of guided interpretive walks to and on the glacier. While you can walk without a guide along the valley floor you must take a licensed tour to get any closer than 100 metres of the glacier. The tours offered are an interpretive Valley Walk (3 hours), a Half Day (4 1/2 hours) hike including around 1 1/2 hours on the lower glacier, a Full Day (7-8 hours) adventure onto the ice and for the very adventurous a full day of Ice Climbing. All equipment is provided for these tours.
One of the most popular ways to experience the glaciers though is on a Helihike. A Scenic helicopter flight delivers you to the upper slopes where a guide then accompanies you for around 2 hours over the ice flows, caves and crevasses.
Other scenic flights with short lacier landings are available with The Helicopter Line and Mt. Cook Ski Planes offer unique ski equipped fixed wing aircraft landings.
The township, although small, has a lively atmosphere during its busy seasons and there is plenty of choice to dine out and reflect on your days adventure.
Your accommodation: Westwood Lodge
Westwood is a purpose built lodge, crafted entirely from wood and exquisitely decorated throughout. The lounge is the place to meet to watch the Southern Alps turn a soft pink in the setting sun.    

Day 19 
Franz Josef to Greymouth Train StationThe drive north from Franz Josef takes you through the historic gold mining region of Ross and the town of Hokitika, a great place to explore the craft stores, in particular the jade or greenstone. The largest town on the West Coast, Greymouth is also the starting point for the Tranz Alpine Scenic Train. Drop your rental car at the depot (located at the train station before checking in for your train journey.

Tranz Alpine Scenic train Greymouth to Christchurch

Considered one of the worlds great train journeys, the Tranz Alpine scenic train takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch, from the West Coast and the Tasman Sea to the east coast and the Pacific Ocean. From your carriage you'll see the spectacular Otira Valley and mountains of Arthur's Pass National Park and the Southern Alps. Rivers, waterfalls and lush beech forest followed by high country farmland whisk by before your journey follows the Waimakariri River and then onto the Canterbury Plains before arriving into Christchurch just after 6pm.
On arrival into Christchurch train station a private transfer will deliver you to your accommodation.

Private transfer Christchurch train station to your accommodation

Your accommodation: The George Hotel, Christchurch
The George is the essence of supreme comfort and is just a few minutes from Christchurch city centre and cultural precinct including the historic Tram, Canterbury Museum, Arts Centre and the modern Christchurch Art Gallery.    

Driving Information
Franz Josef to Greymouth Distance
177 kilometres : 2 1/2 hours

Day 20
Private transfer to Christchurch airport
You will be collected from your accommodation and a private transfer will deliver you to Christchurch airport in time for your departing flight.

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