Exploring the Northern Regions of the South Island Tour (Part I)

From Christchurch head north via State Highway 1 to Kaikoura for around 2.5 hours. The township of Kaikoura is well known for its abundant marine life, thus considered as one of the best place for whale and dolphin watching. Book your Whale or Dolphin Tour before the start of the trip and enjoy a full day with the marine animals. Watch sperm whales, swim with the dolphins, join a kayaking tour or get up close and personal with New Zealand's fur seals. If you'd rather stick to inland activity, take the Mt. Fyffe track up the Seaward Kaikoura mountains to get a magnificent view of
the peninsula.

Take a scenic drive along vast vineyards while in Nelson. Enjoy a leisurely tour of the local wineries and savor the region's Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay. If you think you had enough, head back to the city and experience Nelson's thriving art scene. Start with the World of WearableArt & Collectable Cars Museum,  The Suter Art Gallery (The Suter Te Arotaoi o Whakatu) and the Bead Gallery. If you're visiting on a Saturday, don't miss Nelson's famous Saturday Market for some local food, wine, art displays and crafts.

Head down south to Punakaiki, the gateway to Paparoa National Park. See the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowhole located approximately 20 minutes loop walk from the main road, opposite the Visitor Centre. There are variety of walking tracks in Punakaiki ranging from an easy access walk to a difficult tramping tracks, so make sure to drop by the Visitor Centre for assistance.

Explore Paparoa National Park on your second day. Go caving at Punakaiki Cavern, located 5 minutes walk north of the Punakaiki Visitor Center. Punakaiki Cavern is perfect for families because of its easy and safe access. Those who love a more challenging track may do the Fox River Cave Walk or the Pororari River Track. Other outdoor activities includes, kayaking along Pororari River, fishing and bird watching.