Romantic Getaway
If you’re looking for a romantic escape with your No 1 person, the top of the south is hard to beat. Soak in the alpine ambience of Hanmer and Maruia, get up close with some cute and playful marine mammals in Kaikōura, immerse yourself in delicious wine and food in Marlborough, sail away in stunning Tasman and let your hearts soar on the wild West Coast.
Christchurch - Hanmer Springs
What better way to start a seven day getaway with your other half, than with a wine tasting and lunch in the beautiful North Canterbury wine country, Wairarapa. Explore a hidden gem of Hurunui and end your day with a relaxing soak at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa.
Greystone Wines
Pop in for a tasting, or enjoy a long lunch at stunning Greystone Wines in Wairarapa, who have been proudly crafting award-winning, organic wines since 2004. Their menu is inspired by some of the region’s best local produce and their world-famous Vineyard Ferment Pinot Noir and flagship Chardonnays are a must-try.
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa
Surrounded by dramatic mountains and towering forests, Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa is the fun place to relax and unwind. Soak in the natural rock pools or private spas, get your thrills on the hydroslides, or book an indulging massage or spa treatment in their exclusive spa.
Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park
Explore one of Hurunui’s hidden gems, Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park, a treasure trove of natural beauty and stunning artworks by Sculptor Raymond Herber. Stroll the extensive native gardens and discover the many different sculptures on display from amusing kinetic works, to giant steel and stainless steel pieces that are sure to surprise and delight.
Tawanui Farm
Enjoy an unforgettable stay on Tawanui Farm, a working sheep and beef farm that has been run by the same family for five generations. Stay in one of their uniquely designed, private luxury campsites, with breathtaking views of the Kaikōura mountain ranges and outdoor hot tub.
Matai Peak Lodge
Discover luxury at its very best with an overnight stay at Matai Peak hillside lodge. Located in a remote area on a rugged mountainside with views overlooking the Pacific Ocean and mighty Kaikōura ranges, enjoy the spring-fed hot tub, roaring outdoor fire and truly incredible sun rises.
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Hanmer Springs - Kaikōura
Perfectly positioned with the lapping waves of the Pacific Ocean to one side and the towering mountains of the Kaikōura Seaward Ranges to the other; Kaikōura is the perfect place to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most rare, playful and magnificent sea birds and mammals.
South Pacific Helicopters
To capture the best of Kaikōura with a premier whale watching experience, heli-picnic, heli-kayaking adventure or scenic flight with South Pacific Helicopters is the way to go. This locally owned and operated business will take you straight to where the action is and help you make the most of your time in Kaikōura.
Dolphin Encounter
Kaikōura is one of the best places in the world to encounter dolphins in their natural environment. It's just you, the open ocean... and Kaikōura's wild Dusky Dolphins. Dolphin Encounter offers dolphin cruises, or for a truly life changing experience, dive in and take a swim alongside these sleek and playful beauties.
Albatross Encounter
Meet nature's most extraordinary seabirds close-up on the wild Kaikōura coastline with Albatross Encounter, which offers an opportunity to spot up to 14 species of Albatross, not to mention a huge range of other sea birds, including shearwaters, petrels, shags, penguins, gulls and dozens more.
Hapuku Kitchen
Tap into the rich food story of Kaikōura with a culinary adventure or dining experience at Hapuku Kitchen. Created by passionate foodies Fiona Read and Chris Sturgeon, their private cooking classes and culinary tours provide a tasty and tangible way to connect with the land and sea.
Hapuku Lodge and Tree Houses
Treat yourself to a little luxury and stunning ocean views at the Hapuku Lodge and Treehouses. Set on Kaikōura’s rugged coastline, Hapuku Lodge is also one of the best places in the region to experience the stunning produce that is grown, caught and foraged right here in Kaikōura.
Kaikōura - Blenheim - Marlborough Sounds
From its award-winning wines and delicious culinary experiences heroing locally produced ingredients, Marlborough is a true haven for wine aficionados and foodies. And no trip to the region is complete without exploring the endless coves and bays of the Marlborough Sounds, where you’ll discover hidden luxury, amazing views and dreamy sunsets.
Cloudy Bay
Experience the iconic Marlborough wine label at the Cloudy Bay cellar door. Discover their award-winning wines with a tasting menu, or enjoy a unique lunch at Jack’s Raw Bar, renowned for its freshly shucked oysters and vibrant sharing dishes. To delve deeper into Marlborough’s unique environment and its amazing produce, book a private tour.
Marlborough Wine Tours
If you are looking for the perfect way to explore and experience the very best of New Zealand wine, Marlborough Wine Tours’ half day tour is the ideal starting point. Tour four different wineries with an opportunity to taste a variety of the region’s best wines, including Marlborough’s flagship Sauvignon Blanc and world-class Pinot Noir.
Helicopters Nelson
Elevate your holiday with a thrilling heli-picnic or sightseeing tour with Helicopters Nelson. Their experienced pilots can take you to some of the top of the south’s most remote and breathtaking places in a cinch, or help you make the most of your holiday by providing lodge-to-lodge bespoke transfers.
Arbour Restaurant
Tucked among the vines in the heart of wine country, no trip to Marlborough is complete without dining at the darling of Marlborough’s food scene, Arbour. Established in 2015, by chef Bradley Hornby and hospitality superstar Liz Buttimore, Arbour offers innovative cuisine, an extensive wine list and warm, friendly service in a modern and relaxed environment.
Harvest Restaurant
For a relaxed gastronomical experience in a unique location, head to Harvest Restaurant. Located on the ‘Golden Mile’ of Marlborough’s winegrowing area and set among 16 acres of secluded park gardens and vineyards, guests can enjoy an ever-changing menu, featuring the best seasonal local produce, with attention to sustainable practices.
Marlborough Sounds - Nelson / Abel Tasman
Home to three incredible national parks, Nelson Tasman is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, whether you want to stroll along a secluded beach, hike a more challenging track or kayak or sail the pristine coastline. Perhaps inspired by its natural beauty, you’ll find a plethora of boutique food producers, artists and craftspeople, all well worth checking out.
Golden Bay Air
Whether you want to experience the stunning scenery of the top of the south, explore the Heaphy or Abel Tasman Tracks, or just make the most of your time in the top of the south, Golden Bay Air has got you covered. Check out their range of scheduled, chartered and scenic flights.
Abel Tasman Sailing Adventures
Experience the natural beauty of Abel Tasman National Park in a quiet and relaxing way onboard one of Abel Tasman Sailing Adventures’ comfortable catamarans. Join another group for a few hours of sailing, or charter a boat for a multi-day adventure with experienced sailors who are passionate about this stunning area, and of course sailing!
Jens Hansen
Whether you are yet to pop the question, or just want to spoil your loved one, get inspired with the beautiful range of handcrafted jewellery at Jens Hansen - makers of the world’s most famous ring, used in the filming of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.
Awaroa Lodge
Located in the Abel Tasman National Park, surrounded by pristine waterways and native forest, the secluded 4-star Awaroa Lodge is the ideal place to enjoy the beauty of this stunning area, in comfort and style, including comfortable lounge, bar, restaurant and outdoor pizzeria.
Abel Tasman - Punakaiki
Get amongst the greatest of the outdoors on the wild West Coast, where you’ll find rugged coastlines for miles, untamed native bush teeming with birdlife and hardly a soul in sight. Marvel at the Coast’s ancient limestone formations and walk, cycle or paddle through untouched wilderness.
Breakers Boutique Accommodation
For the ultimate in peace, privacy and a little bit of luxury, Breakers Boutique on the West Coast is the perfect place to get away from it all. Enjoy the hiking and biking options in this stunning landscape, or just relax and soak up the panoramic sea view and solitude.
Punakaiki - Reefton - Maruia Springs
Wave goodbye to the rugged West Coast and head inland through pristine native forest, until you reach the charming heritage town of Reefton. Explore its extensive gold rush history, beautifully restored heritage buildings and retail and art shops and cafes, before continuing on to Maruia Hot Springs for the ultimate in relaxation.
Reefton Distilling Co
For a genuine taste of the intrepid spirit of the West Coast and its people, a trip to the Reefton Distilling Co is a great place to start. Housed in one of Reefton’s beautiful heritage buildings, the distillery produces premium handcrafted spirits distilled from the West Coast’s lush rainforest.
Maruia Hot Springs
Immerse yourself in an authentic, natural and pure thermal mineral water experience at Maruia Hot Springs. Stay the night and relax and rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit; treat yourself to an indulgent massage or spa treatment and enjoy a carefully crafted meal, featuring fresh organic ingredients from local suppliers.
Maruia Springs - CHC
After a relaxing time at Maruia Springs enjoy the beauty of the Lewis Pass as you make your way back to Christchurch.
Maruia Hot Springs
Immerse yourself in an authentic, natural and pure thermal mineral water experience at Maruia Hot Springs. Stay the night and relax and rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit; treat yourself to an indulgent massage or spa treatment and enjoy a carefully crafted meal, featuring fresh organic ingredients from local suppliers.