Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Islands Destination Planner 2017 | Page 144

142

CHRISTCHURCH AND CANTERBURY TOURING / South Island
Kaikoura – Whales , Wine , Mountains & Sea
Operated by Canterbury Trails
Depart Christchurch and journey through rural North Canterbury and the Waipara wine region to Kaikoura , where the mountains meet the sea . Join a whale watching cruise or flight and experience the magic of seeing magnificent sperm whales and dusky dolphins up close . Enjoy a café lunch , discover the glorious vistas from the Kaikoura Peninsula and view playful New Zealand fur seals . Sample local wines before returning to Christchurch . Your tour includes a whale watching cruise or flight , lunch , guided walks with informative commentary , picnic teas , wine tastings and transfers . price guide : $$$$$
Arthur ' s Pass – Train , Mountains & Forest
Operated by Canterbury Trails
Journey from Christchurch into Arthur ’ s Pass National Park on the TranzAlpine train to view spectacular mountains and the impressive Otira Gorge . Explore native bush , forests and waterfalls on foot before lunching at a country hotel . Visit the mysterious and sacred site of Kura Tawhiti ( Castle Hill ), comprised of limestone cliffs and weatherworn , rainsmoothed rocks . Cross over Porter ’ s Pass and the Canterbury Plains before returning to Christchurch . TranzAlpine train , guided walks , informative commentary , lunch , picnic teas and transfers are included .
Akaroa – Cruise , Dolphins and Scenic Drive
Operated by Canterbury Trails
Depart Christchurch and journey along an extinct volcanic rim with stunning views of Banks Peninsula , Akaroa Harbour , the Pacific Ocean and remote bays . Explore the picturesque village of Akaroa , the only French settlement to be established in New Zealand , before enjoying lunch at an award-winning café . Take a nature cruise or swim option in search of the rare Hector dolphins , fur seals and penguins . Return to Christchurch via Barry ' s Bay Cheese Factory . Nature cruise , lunch , informative commentary , picnic teas , cheese tasting and transfers are included .
price guide : $$$$$ price guide : $$$$
ANDERSON VACATIONS From prices for accommodation are ‘ per room ’ and sightseeing are ‘ per person ’.