The Ultimate NZ Coastal Safari

Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula offer a striking contrast to Christchurch, with rolling green hills, golden beaches, historic settlements, wineries, cafés, and abundant wildlife just 1.5 hours from the city. Over the Port Hills lies Lyttelton, a historic port town whose harbour names reflect its naval past. The peninsula itself is the remains of an ancient volcano that now forms Akaroa Harbour, where French settlers arrived in 1840, an influence still seen in the town’s French street names and annual festival. The Harbour itself is teeming with wildlife and a nature cruise is a must do activity. One of the world's smallest and rarest dolphins, hectors dolphin, are often seen and cruises also offer excursions with the chance to swim amongst them.

Experience majestic scenery and stunning wildlife daily on a Black Cat Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise. You’ll see the rare, native dolphin – the Hector’s or New Zealand Dolphin. There’s also the chance to spot the world’s smallest penguin, the White Flippered Little Blue Penguin, Fur Seals and other sea birds. Other cruise highlights are some majestic volcanic cliffs (including the impressive Cathedral Cave) and signs of Akaroa’s fascinating past including early Maori, French and British settlements.

Akaroa Harbour formed as a result of an extinct volcanic crater being flooded by the Pacific Ocean. It's a beautiful place with sheer cliffs and the picturesque township of Akaroa at its heart. New Zealand's only native dolphin, Hector's dolphin, makes this sheltered harbor its home, and its here you can see them and if you wish actually swim with these incredible creatures. Following a ½ hour briefing, you depart on your cruise of which around 1 hour is spent in the water with the dolphins. Black Cat Cruises has been operating since 1985 and their success rate at sighting dolphins is over 98%. Swimming with dolphins is not always possible either due to sea conditions, the dolphins' willingness to stay and play, and other environmental reasons such as not swimming when there are babies around. They still manage to swim though on over 80% of their tours. All equipment is provided and all you need to bring along is your swimming costume and a towel.

The drive north from Christchurch to Kaikoura takes you through the rolling hills of North Canterbury's major wine region, the Waipara Valley. Allow time for a detour and visit Hanmer Springs for a dip in the mineral hot pools. Continue on and cross the Hawkswood Range before descending to the spectacular Kaikoura coastline - where the road hugs the ocean for the last leg of the drive.

Kaikōura is a stunning coastal town known for its rich marine life and dramatic scenery. Visit the fur seal colony, take a whale-watching cruise, or swim with playful dusky dolphins. The town is rich with attractions, walking tracks, and activities for every visitor. A walk around the Kaikōura Peninsula is a must, where you can explore tide pools teeming with marine life, observe sea creatures basking on the rocks, and, for bird lovers, spot the impressive native albatross.  Just be sure to keep a respectful distance from any sea lions you meet. Highlights like Ohau Point and historic Fyffe House offer insight into the region’s wildlife and whaling past. Finish your visit by sampling the fresh local seafood, renowned for having some of the best fish and chips in the country, or by taking a relaxing wander through the tranquil Lavendyl Lavender Farm.

Enjoy a scenic journey to Kaikōura's beachfront airfield, followed by a 4WD adventure crossing the braided Kahutara River to Rakanui Station. Take in panoramic views of rolling farmland, lush valleys, and snowcapped mountains before embarking on an exhilarating 5-zipline course, including twin lines for side-by-side rides. Learn fascinating local history from expert guides and enjoy a walk through native forest, with a chance to plant a tree during winter as part of Eco Zip’s conservation program. An unforgettable eco-adventure awaits!

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity before travel. For more information, please see here

Start your day by experiencing the famous wildlife, either on a boat trip to see the majestic Giant Sperm Whales, which are resident year-round, or viewing them from above on an unforgettable heli flight. For a more active approach, consider a guided sea kayak tour to paddle alongside the New Zealand fur seals, or swim beside the playful Dusky Dolphins. Take a gentle stroll along the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway to observe the seal colonies on the rocks, or perhaps join a hands-on cooking class to learn about local foraging and cuisine. No visit is complete without indulging in the town’s namesake delicacy, fresh crayfish, available at one of the famous roadside stands or local eateries.

See the incredible marine ecosystem of Kaikōura from every angle with this exhilarating combo! Begin with a majestic 30-minute whale watching flight with Wings Over Whales for the ultimate bird's-eye view of the giant Sperm Whales. Then, take to the sea on a 3.5-hour boat tour with Dolphin Encounter to get up close with playful pods of Dusky Dolphins. For the ultimate thrill-seeker, this package includes the option to upgrade to an unforgettable dolphin swim. An essential Kaikōura experience showcasing the giants of the deep and the acrobats of the ocean!

Experience the excitement of watching Fur Seals ducking, weaving and diving around your kayak. Paddle gently along with them as they swim around the Kaikoura Peninsula hunting for their favourite feed of Octopus. Keep your distance while dinner is devoured in front of you, then duck for cover as hundreds of Pelagic (ocean-going) birds swoop in to clean up the left-overs. Continue your journey around the reefs of Kaikoura to search for other marine mammals such as Dusky Dolphins and Blue Penguins. Suitable for all abilities.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please click here

Today follow the coast to Picton, located at the top of the South Island. As you leave Kaikoura you'll take in the spectacular shoreline and keep a lookout for native wildlife as you go. Stop to view adult fur seals at Ohau Point, and take a short stroll along the oceanside walkway. Continuing on, you'll have the ocean on one side and the Kaikoura ranges on the other before traversing the dry hills of Marlborough, New Zealand's largest wine-producing region. Visit one of the vineyards surrounding Blenheim for a wine tasting or a gourmet lunch before beginning the final leg of your journey to Picton.

Return your rental vehicle to your designated depot before your next adventure.

Board your Cougar Line scheduled water taxi to head into the Marlborough Sounds. Stopping at a number of drop off points, this is a great way to see the beautiful sounds with a knowledgeable captain who is always happy to give any information or commentary en-route.

Experience a stunning section of the Queen Charlotte Track with this scenic day trip. Walk or bike from beautiful Punga Cove around the coastline of Endeavour Inlet to historic Furneaux Lodge. This section of the track is famous for its easy, relatively flat terrain, spectacular coastal views, and lush native bush. Finish your rewarding walk with a well-deserved refreshment or lunch at Furneaux Lodge before catching a relaxing water taxi back to Punga Cove.
Distance: 12km, 3.5 to 4 hours on foot

Connect between two of the Queen Charlotte Sound's most famous lodges with a swift and scenic water taxi transfer! Perfect for Queen Charlotte Track adventurers, this short hop across the beautiful Endeavour Inlet links Furneaux Lodge and Punga Cove, allowing you to quickly reach your next destination or complete your day's walk. Enjoy stunning views without the long walk or the hassle of transporting your luggage. A beautiful link on the world-renowned Queen Charlotte Track.

Return to Picton by Cougar Line scheduled water taxi today via the beautiful Marlborough Sounds. Stop at a number of pick up/drop off points en route.

Described as 'one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world,' the 92 km journey between Picton and Wellington takes around 3 hours. The first hour of the cruise takes you through the Marlborough Sounds before heading out into open waters. This region of bush covered mountains, small islands, crystal clear waters and secluded bays offer remarkable photographic opportunities. Once out on the Cook Strait, amazing views of the Kaikoura Ranges can be seen, often accompanied by dolphins and sea birds. After crossing the strait you approach the Wellington Harbour, passing many interesting points such as Pencarrow Head, location of New Zealand's oldest lighthouse, Red Rocks, home to a large seal colony and Oterangi Bay  - the site which recorded the country's highest ever wind speed of 268 kph (167 mph).

Escape to Interislander’s Premium Lounge for sensational views, child-free serenity, and locally sourced food and drink. Interislander’s Premium Lounge has enhanced its offering to bring you an elevated travel experience across Cook Strait. Enjoy delicious food and drink, attentive service, and prime positions for appreciating the spectacular views. Whether you're looking to relax or chat with your travel companions, the Premium Lounge provides the ideal space. With varied seating options, you can choose a cozy spot to watch the stunning scenery and taste a selection of seasonal snacks included in your ticket.

Welcome to Wellington! Your premium rental car is ready for collection, see here for the full range of rental cars available. Your self-drive adventure begins immediately as you exit the terminal.

This tour's from price includes an intermediate-sized vehicle, setting you up for comfortable travels. Yet, we understand every adventure is unique! Feel free to select the perfect wheels from our incredible collection of rental cars, spanning from economy hatchbacks to premium SUVs. See the most popular range here.

First time driving in New Zealand? Check out our hot tips for a safe and successful self drive experience on our roads.

Leaving Wellington you'll travel along the Kapiti Coast. The coastal seaside towns of Paekakariki and Plimmerton are worth a short detour before arriving into the seaside town of Paraparaumu.

Just a short drive north of Wellington, the Kapiti Coast offers a refreshing escape with its long, sandy beaches, stunning views, and laid-back coastal towns. This stretch of coastline is defined by its star attraction: the majestic Kāpiti Island. Kāpiti Island is one of New Zealand's most important and accessible nature reserves. A protected sanctuary for rare and endangered native birds, the island is a genuine ecological treasure. A guided tour is a truly special experience, where you can walk through pristine native forest and get up close with species like the cheeky kākā, the curious weka, and if you’re lucky, even the rare takahe. Back on the mainland, a string of charming towns offers a slice of authentic Kiwi life. Paekākāriki, at the southern end, is known for its artsy, bohemian vibe, while Paraparaumu serves as the main hub and the departure point for Kāpiti Island tours. Further north, Ōtaki is rich in Māori culture and history. All along the coast, you'll find boutique shops, vibrant cafés, and beautiful beaches perfect for a walk, a swim, or simply watching the sunset over the Tasman Sea.

Seeing Kiwi in their natural habitat is an experience not to be missed. Kapiti Island is home to over 1,200 Little Spotted Kiwi, making it the most prolific population to be found, and one of the best opportunities to see them in the wild. Spend the night and enjoy famous hospitality and delicious meals, surrounded by stunning native bush and some of our rarest and beautiful native birds. This is an overnight experience with an all-inclusive package on the island. 

Continue south along Kapiti Coast. The coastal seaside towns of Paekakariki and Plimmerton are also worth a short detour before arriving into the capital city of Wellington. Wellington City is New Zealand's capital. It sits on a wonderful deep natural harbour and is surrounded by bush clad hills. The city centre itself is quite compact (only around 1 square kilometre) and so exploring on foot is relatively easy. From your city centre accommodation you can easily stroll the cafes and restaurants around Courtenay Place or visit New Zealand's national museum, Te Papa, which is also close by.

Wellington, known in Māori as Te Upoko o te Ika a Maui ("The Head of the Fish of Maui") or Te Whanganui a Tara ("The Great Harbour of Tara"), is New Zealand’s vibrant capital. Often called a ‘mini-Melbourne,’ this cosmopolitan city blends art, culture, food, and fashion with quirky laneway bars, hip eateries, and underground art shows. Stroll the waterfront to Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, or ride the historic cable car from Lambton Quay for stunning city views. Explore Cuba Street’s unique boutiques and visit the iconic ‘Beehive’ at Parliament. Fans of The Lord of the Rings can tour Weta Workshop, the Oscar-winning design studio behind Middle-earth. Just an hour away, Martinborough offers a culinary escape with top-notch food and wine. Nature lovers can’t miss Zealandia, the world’s first fully fenced eco-sanctuary. End your day sampling Wellington’s renowned dining scene—search 'Metro Eats' for the city’s best spots.

Te Papa Tongarewa, meaning "Container of Treasures," is New Zealand’s national museum, located on Wellington’s stunning waterfront. Renowned for its bold and innovative approach, Te Papa seamlessly blends science, art, history, and Māori culture into interactive and thought-provoking exhibitions. Visitors can explore everything from colossal squid and geological wonders to contemporary art and powerful stories of Aotearoa’s people. A visit to Te Papa is more than a museum experience, it’s an inspiring journey through the heart of New Zealand’s identity.

Welcome to the world's first fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary - a conservation success and safe haven for some of New Zealand's rarest native animals. Remarkable species of birds, reptiles, insects and more are living wild within a beautiful 225ha (one square mile) valley - just 10 minutes from central Wellington. Around 40 native and endemic species of birds can be found at Zealandia. Kākā - the playful forest parrots - have made an impressive comeback to the area and are lots of fun to watch at their feeder stations. Endangered hihi (stitchbird), tīeke (saddleback), kākāriki and kiwi are flourishing here and the pair of critically threatened takahē are often seen at the wetlands.
Experience Zealandia as it transforms from daylight to twilight during this special guided experience. See birds returning to the sanctuary to settle into their nests, the sight of the evening sky, and hear the changing sounds of birds from day to night. Encounter unique species such as wētā, takahē, tuatara and more. You may even be lucky enough to experience the first sounds of the nocturnal birds as they wake.

Choose to explore more of Wellington's sights before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Bid farewell to Aotearoa / New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. In Māori, it is said mā te wā, which is not goodbye, it is see you soon!