Nelson and Golden Bay Scenic Tours
Northwest Wilderness Ramble (May) 9 Days
Day
1 – Christchurch to Westport
Depart Christchurch for Westport via Lewis Pass, stopping at a variety of
different stops, viewing the changing flora and fauna as we travel into
a higher rainfall area.
Day 2 – Westport to Karamea
Heading up to Karamea we can visit old coal mining areas like Denniston,
walk Charming Creek Walkway with its gently graded former railway, plus
other notable features, and finish the Day in historic Karamea.
Day 3 – Karamea to Motueka
A short drive takes us to the start of the Heaphy Track where we can walk
the Nikau Walk, followed by a trip to the Oparara Arches and Mirror Lake.
Returning south we turn inland through the Buller Gorge and make our way
through to Motueka.
Day 4 – Motueka to Takaka
From Motueka we have a number of options available in the Mt Arthur region,
or coastal if conditions dictate. We end the Day in Takaka where we will
be based for 2 nights.
Day 5 – Takaka
A number of interesting areas very close to Takaka, including the Pupu Springs
with water so clear it defies logic. Walks through lovely bush or climbing
around limestone outcrops overlooking Golden Bay.
Day
6 – Takaka to Collingwood
We head through to Collingwood and sample the delights of the Northern region.
A trip on Farewell Spit will be fitted in between tides, and this combined
with a few hours at Wharariki Beach with views of Archway Islands, make
for a stunning visit to this very special place.
Day 7 – Collingwood to Nelson
Leaving Collingwood we head back to Nelson in the afternoon and time permitting
we may visit the Hackett and its unique rock formations.
Day 8 – Nelson to Blenheim
From Nelson we make our way through to Blenheim and, subject to conditions,
will visit a number of different places including a drive through Queen
Charlotte Drive affording views of the Sounds many moods.
Day
9 – Blenheim to Christchurch
From Blenheim we head down the coast to Kaikoura with time for a visit to
the whales or just walking around the peninsula. From here it is an easy
drive back to Christchurch and the end of our journey.
Tour includes:
Free pick up within Christchurch metropolitan area.
All travel and accommodation costs.
All meals – breakfast, lunch, dinner (except one evening meal out).
Comprehensive Guided Nature Tour of Farewell Spit and Lighthouse.
Extras you will need to budget for:
Travel costs to and from Christchurch.
Any extra nights you may wish to stay in Christchurch.
One evening meal out during the trip.
Café extras (special coffees etc).
