The Scenic Queenstown to Auckland Tour (Part II)

Start your day with Punting on the Avon River, a popular activity in Christchurch that you don't want to missed. Enjoy a serene boat ride through the Avon River gently guided by an Edwardian punter. Then head over to Heathcote Valley and take the Christchurch Gondola for a 360 degree view of the city and the whole peninsula. Head back to downtown Christchurch and explore the Cathedral Square, then end your day with a good meal at one of the local restaurants in SoMo (South of Moorhouse Avenue).

Ride the Christchurch tramway and experience a hop-on hop off tour that takes you to the city's landmarks and historical sights. Get a tan or have a family picnic at the Sumner Beach or the New Brighton Beach. Surfing enthusiast may head over to Taylors Mistake, one of the region's top surfing destination

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.

On your second day in Kaikoura, you can either rent a kayak and explore on your own or join a guided sea kayaking tour. Fishing enthusiast can join a Fishing Charter or visit the seals at Ohau Point. If you're looking some inland activity, take the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway that gives you an excellent view of the Seaward Kaikoura Range and coastline.

Before arriving in Picton make sure to drop by Blenheim and visit local wineries in the area. In Picton, start you day's itinerary by visiting the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum and learn about the history of the oldest surviving merchant ship in the world. Then take a break and do a DIY(do-it-yourself)  walking tour around the town centre. Visit local shops and cafes along the waterfront area. Finally, end your day with a good meal at a local reastaurant and enjoy a lovely view of Picton's marina.