Welcome to Christchurch! After picking up your motorhome, take some time to explore the city. In the morning, visit the Botanic Gardens and enjoy a peaceful walk amidst beautiful flora and fauna. In the afternoon, head to Canterbury Museum to learn about the region's natural and cultural heritage. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Avon River and marvel at the stunning views.
Today, immerse yourself in the cultural heart of Christchurch. Begin your morning with a visit to the Christchurch Art Gallery and admire the remarkable collection of artwork. In the afternoon, take a memorable punting tour on the Avon River for a unique perspective of the city. In the evening, explore the trendy Riverside Market for delectable food and local crafts.
Embark on a day trip to the picturesque Akaroa and Banks Peninsula. In the morning, explore the charming town of Akaroa and its French-inspired architecture. Take a relaxing nature cruise to spot dolphins and seals in the harbor. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the waterfront. In the afternoon, hike one of the scenic trails in the Banks Peninsula, such as the Banks Track, for breathtaking views of the coastline.
Today, drive towards the stunning Lake Tekapo. On your way, take a break at the iconic Lake Pukaki to feast your eyes on its turquoise waters and the majestic Aoraki/Mt. Cook in the distance. Once in Lake Tekapo, hike up to the renowned Church of the Good Shepherd and enjoy the breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. In the evening, indulge in stargazing at the Mt. John Observatory.
Spend the next five days fully immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of Lake Tekapo. Mornings can be spent hiking the various trails surrounding the lake, such as the Mount John Summit track or the Hooker Valley Track. Afternoons can be dedicated to enjoying water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. In the evenings, relax in the popular Tekapo Springs, where you can soak in hot pools while stargazing.
Leave Lake Tekapo and head to the adventure capital, Queenstown. Spend the morning exploring the charming town center and its boutique shops. In the afternoon, take a scenic gondola ride to Bob's Peak for panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range. Enjoy a special Christmas dinner at one of Queenstown's excellent restaurants.
For the next six days, Queenstown will be your adventure playground. In the mornings, enjoy thrilling activities such as bungee jumping at Kawarau Bridge, jet boating in the Shotover River, or hiking up Ben Lomond for epic vistas. Spend afternoons wine tasting in the nearby Gibbston Valley or exploring the landscapes of Glenorchy. Wrap up the evenings with a relaxing lake cruise or a scenic helicopter ride.
For the final days of your journey, continue exploring the natural wonders of Queenstown. Choose from activities such as skydiving, exploring the Milford Sound, or taking a scenic hike through the Routeburn Track. Relax by visiting the Onsen Hot Pools or treat yourself to a spa day. End your trip with a celebratory dinner at one of the world-class restaurants in Queenstown.
If you're craving even more nature, consider visiting Mount Cook National Park, where you'll find New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mt. Cook. The Hooker Valley Track offers a stunning hike with magnificent views of glaciers and mountains. Alternatively, venture to the West Coast to explore the breathtaking Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. These less touristy spots offer unparalleled natural beauty, perfect for nature enthusiasts like you.
To check hotel and flight prices for your trip, you can visit Kayak.