10 Day The Ultimate NZ Coastal Safari Self Drive

Kia ora and welcome to Aotearoa, New Zealand — your coastal safari begins in Christchurch. After settling into your accommodation, you’ll have time to explore the city’s blend of leafy parks, historic stone buildings, and vibrant rebuild.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

The Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful green sanctuary within the heart of the city with native and exotic plantings. Wander the seasonal blooms and tranquil paths for a relaxing start to your journey.

Suggested Activity – Christchurch Gondola

Take the gondola ride up to panoramic views of Christchurch, Banks Peninsula, and the Southern Alps. Once at the top, enjoy short walks through native bush and a café stop overlooking sweeping landscapes.

Suggested Activity – Christchurch Trams

Step aboard vintage trams for a narrated trip through the city’s major sights, including art precincts and heritage buildings. Hop on or off to explore markets, cafés, and cultural stops along the way.

Today you’ll leave Christchurch for the scenic rolling hills and volcanic harbours of Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula. This charming area is rich in French history and abundant wildlife, offering dramatic coastal scenery and friendly township vibes.

Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise with Black Cat

Cruise Akaroa Harbour to spot rare Hector’s dolphins, fur seals, and little blue penguins against a backdrop of volcanic cliffs. The tour also showcases local Māori and French settlement sites and geological features such as Cathedral Cave.

Suggested Activity – Swimming with Dolphins Cruise with Black Cat

If conditions allow, enjoy open‑water swimming with playful Hector’s dolphins in their natural habitat. Confident swimmers will relish this up‑close experience with one of the world’s rarest dolphin species.

Carrying on north, today’s drive takes you through rolling wine country and over the scenic Hawkswood Range to arrive at Kaikōura’s dramatic coastline. This marine hub is famed for extraordinary wildlife encounters and coastal walking trails.

Kaikōura Highlights

Kaikōura’s rugged seascapes are home to fur seals, albatross, and some of the world’s largest sperm whales. Explore the peninsula for tide pools rich with sea creatures and enjoy fresh seafood or lavender farm strolls.

Suggested Activity – Zipline & Native Forest Tour with EcoZip Kaikōura

Combine 4WD access, panoramic farmland views and a thrilling 5‑zipline course through native forest. Along the way, guides share local history and conservation insights for a memorable eco‑adventure.

Spend today chasing unforgettable Kaikōura animal experiences and exploring its iconic coastal tracks. Whether by air, sea or kayak, the marine playground here offers close‑up views of cetaceans and playful dolphins.

Suggested Activity – Whales by Air & Dolphins by Sea with Wings over Whales Kaikoura

Take to the skies for a bird’s‑eye view of giant sperm whales before descending to sea level for a dolphin encounter. Upgrade options include a dolphin swim for an immersive dual‑perspective adventure.

Suggested Activity – Guided Seal Kayaking with Kaikoura Kayaks

Glide through calm waters and paddle among curious fur seals as they dive and play around your kayak. Along the way, enjoy seabird sightings and scenic coastal views for a slower‑paced marine exploration.

Depart Kaikōura and follow the coastline with the ocean at your side and mountain ranges on the horizon. Stop to see fur seals at Ohau Point before reaching Marlborough’s famed vineyards and on to Picton’s waterfront.

Return Your Rental Car

Return your rental vehicle at the designated depot in Picton, after enjoying the scenic northbound drive. From here your next coastal leg will be on the water rather than the road.

Cougar Line Shared Transfer – Picton to Marlborough Sounds

Board the scheduled water taxi and weave through the intricate waterways of the Marlborough Sounds. Along the journey, captains share local insights and wildlife spotting tips.

Today you’ll explore a scenic section of the renowned Queen Charlotte Track via a fulfilling day walk or gentle bike ride. This iconic trail weaves along the shoreline with sweeping inlet panoramas and peaceful bush corridors.

Punga Cove to Furneaux Lodge Walk

Stride or pedal through coastal scenery, expansive forests, and rolling hills toward Furneaux Lodge. Enjoy lunch at the lodge before returning by water taxi for a relaxed and rewarding day on the track.

Cougar Line Shared Transfer – Furneaux Lodge to Punga Cove

A scenic water taxi transfer brings you back across Endeavour Inlet. With beautiful views and a relaxing ride, it’s a perfect complement to your walk along the Queen Charlotte Track.

Today brings a water taxi back to Picton followed by the famous Cook Strait crossing. Sail through the Marlborough Sounds and on to the vibrant capital city of Wellington for new adventures.

Cougar Line Shared Transfer – Sounds to Picton

Board your water taxi for the return journey through secluded coves and scenic bays. This relaxed transfer brings you neatly back to Picton’s waterfront.

Interislander Ferry Picton to Wellington

Traverse Cook Strait on one of the world’s most scenic ferry rides, with sweeping sea and wildlife views. Keep your camera ready for dolphins, seabirds and distant mountain silhouettes.

Suggested Activity – Premium Lounge with Interislander

Relax in the Premium Lounge with prime views and included snacks and drinks. It’s a tranquil way to enjoy the marine scenery as you cruise toward Wellington Harbour.

Arrival in Wellington & Collect Rental Car

Welcome to New Zealand’s capital, where your self‑drive continues after collecting your next rental vehicle. Wellington’s compact city centre makes it easy to start exploring right away.

The Kapiti Coast boasts long sandy beaches, charming towns, and the remarkable Kāpiti Island Nature Reserve. Today’s highlight is your ultimate overnight encounter with kiwi and rare native birdlife.

Kapiti Coast Highlights

From Ōtaki’s Māori heritage to Paekākāriki’s artisanal vibe, the Kapiti Coast blends culture and scenic beachside towns. Coastal walks and local cafés offer laid‑back experiences before your island adventure.

Ultimate Overnight Tour with Kapiti Island Nature Tours

Spend this special night on Kāpiti Island amongst thriving native forest and rare bird species. With meals, guiding and accommodation included, this immersive experience brings you close to New Zealand’s unique wildlife.

Travel south along the Kapiti Coast back toward Wellington, passing seaside towns and ocean views. Once in the capital, Wellington’s vibrant food scene and cultural attractions await.

Wellington City Introduction

Wellington combines cosmopolitan energy with deep natural harbour scenery and artistic spirit. From quirky laneways to waterfront promenades, the city invites exploration at every turn.

Suggested Activity – Entry to Te Papa The Museum of New Zealand

Visit Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, for a dynamic blend of art, science and Māori culture. Its engaging galleries and storytelling exhibits make it a highlight of any Wellington stay.

Suggested Activity – Zealandia Twilight Wildlife Sanctuary Tour

Explore Zealandia as daylight fades and native birds come alive in their safe forest sanctuary. Expect sightings of rare species such as kākā, tuatara and kiwi under expert guide commentary.

Enjoy one last morning in Wellington before returning your rental vehicle and heading onward. Carry with you the memories of coastal drives, wildlife encounters and unique New Zealand experiences.