{"id":39068,"date":"2025-07-02T15:22:04","date_gmt":"2025-07-02T05:22:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/?p=39068"},"modified":"2025-07-02T15:22:12","modified_gmt":"2025-07-02T05:22:12","slug":"road-trip-new-zealands-south-island","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/road-trip-new-zealands-south-island\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Underrated Road Trips in New Zealand&#8217;s South Island\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong><em>Discover spectacular driving routes through the Top of the South region, offering a quieter, equally stunning alternative to the tourist-packed trails to Milford Sound and Mount Cook.<\/em><\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/search?destinationName=New+Zealand&amp;destinationId=le_9fc3d7152ba9336a670e36d0ed79bc43&amp;adults=2&amp;children=none&amp;pages=3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">New Zealand<\/a>\u2019s South Island harbours some of the world\u2019s most spectacular road trip routes. Dramatic <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/top-of-the-south-new-zealand\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">mountain ranges give way to golden beaches<\/a>, ancient forests conceal underground cave systems and world-class wineries nestle between rugged coastlines and pristine alpine lakes. We\u2019ve plotted the ultimate trips \u2013 whether you\u2019re travelling with family, chasing romance, craving fine wine and food, seeking adventure in the wild or simply longing to unwind.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For families&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From Christchurch, head north to Kaik\u014dura, where sperm whales breach metres from the shore. The town\u2019s deep offshore continental shelf attracts these giants year-round, alongside dusky dolphins that steal the show during boat tours. At the <a href=\"https:\/\/kaikoura-museum.co.nz\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Kaik\u014dura Museum<\/a>, kids can explore interactive exhibits that reveal why this coastline hosts more whale species than anywhere else in New Zealand.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wind inland through Marlborough\u2019s sunny wine region. Here, family-owned vineyards welcome children with grape juice while parents sample award-winning Sauvignon Blanc. Head west to Nelson, the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park, where one of New Zealand\u2019s most accessible Great Walks awaits. Open year-round, the trail offers golden beaches, lush native bush and the sound of birdsong at every turn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div  class=\"lux_UI lux_single_dealcard cacheid_ceae453a30b73ca5428ee92e5968f629\">\n\t\n\t<div class=\"dealcard_preview\">\n\t\t<div class=\"splide lux_dealcard_gallery\" data-lux-event=\"gallery_carousel\" data-lux-event-trigger=\"splide-moved\" aria-label=\"Maruia River Retreat, Shenandoah, New Zealand\"><div class=\"splide__arrows\"><button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--prev\"><\/button><button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--next\"><\/button><\/div><a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/maruia-river-retreat\/461bd1ce-674e-447c-ae15-7d9c0ae77865\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP  mapped \" data-name=\"Maruia River Retreat\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\"><div class=\"splide__track\"><div class=\"splide__list\"><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/zrja4ycrwpo5cdysckq6h.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/zrja4ycrwpo5cdysckq6h.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/zrja4ycrwpo5cdysckq6h.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/zrja4ycrwpo5cdysckq6h.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/zrja4ycrwpo5cdysckq6h.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Maruia River Retreat, Shenandoah, New Zealand 1\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/aty2l188eqyf66wfo5ja.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/aty2l188eqyf66wfo5ja.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/aty2l188eqyf66wfo5ja.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/aty2l188eqyf66wfo5ja.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/aty2l188eqyf66wfo5ja.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Maruia River Retreat, Shenandoah, New Zealand 2\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/gwn12i43hetiwex04t4c.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/gwn12i43hetiwex04t4c.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/gwn12i43hetiwex04t4c.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/gwn12i43hetiwex04t4c.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/gwn12i43hetiwex04t4c.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Maruia River Retreat, Shenandoah, New Zealand 3\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/j0ly3nt8ib2v2ne96gzp6.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/j0ly3nt8ib2v2ne96gzp6.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/j0ly3nt8ib2v2ne96gzp6.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/j0ly3nt8ib2v2ne96gzp6.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/j0ly3nt8ib2v2ne96gzp6.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Maruia River Retreat, Shenandoah, New Zealand 4\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/a4plls63mwnzllq4z13.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/a4plls63mwnzllq4z13.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/a4plls63mwnzllq4z13.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/a4plls63mwnzllq4z13.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/a4plls63mwnzllq4z13.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Maruia River Retreat, Shenandoah, New Zealand 5\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/13scu7g2uyje2h5ghpu.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/13scu7g2uyje2h5ghpu.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/13scu7g2uyje2h5ghpu.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/13scu7g2uyje2h5ghpu.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/13scu7g2uyje2h5ghpu.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Maruia River Retreat, Shenandoah, New Zealand 6\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/25zzloe9ico89icwb058.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/25zzloe9ico89icwb058.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/25zzloe9ico89icwb058.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/25zzloe9ico89icwb058.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/25zzloe9ico89icwb058.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Maruia River Retreat, Shenandoah, New Zealand 7\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/pbjd55422nvlhyug066.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/pbjd55422nvlhyug066.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/pbjd55422nvlhyug066.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/pbjd55422nvlhyug066.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/pbjd55422nvlhyug066.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Maruia River Retreat, Shenandoah, New Zealand 8\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div class=\"dealcard_details\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/maruia-river-retreat\/461bd1ce-674e-447c-ae15-7d9c0ae77865\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP deal_card mapped \" data-name=\"Maruia River Retreat\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t\t<div class=\"dealcard_details_inner\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Shenandoah, New Zealand<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Maruia River Retreat<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Offrez-vous des massages et des soins corporels sur place. Vous appr\u00e9cierez \u00e0 coup s\u00fbr les \u00e9quipements de loisirs, notamment un bain \u00e0 remous et un sauna. Ce lodge propose \u00e9galement l\u2019acc\u00e8s Wi-Fi gratuit, des services d\u2019organisation de mariages et une chemin\u00e9e dans le hall.<\/div><div class=\"rating_box\"><span class=\"rating_count gold \">9.9<\/span><span class=\"rating_label\">Outstanding<\/span><span class=\"rating_reviews\">12 reviews<\/span><\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$3,936<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<span class=\"btn_view_offer\">View offer<\/span>\n\t\t\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/a>\t\t\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The West Coast leg unfolds through Westport and Punakaiki, where the famous Pancake Rocks shoot water skywards. It\u2019s also home to the <a href=\"https:\/\/paparoaexperience.com\/about-us\/paparoa-a-hidden-world-awaits\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Paparoa Experience<\/a>, a multi-sensory, hands-on exhibition on the history of Paparoa National Park. Hokitika\u2019s jade workshops let little hands craft their own treasures, and Lake Brunner\u2019s calm waters provide the perfect spot for skimming stones. The journey wraps up at <a href=\"http:\/\/www.hanmersprings.co.nz\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Hanmer Springs<\/a>, where thermal pools, Aotearoa (New Zealand&#8217;s) largest aquatic thrill ride&nbsp;and mountain views await.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Itinerary:<\/strong> Christchurch \u2013 Kaik\u014dura \u2013 Marlborough \u2013 Nelson \u2013 Westport \u2013 Punakaiki \u2013 Hokitika \u2013 Lake Brunner \u2013 Hanmer Springs \u2013 Christchurch.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Recommended duration<\/strong>: Seven days&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div  class=\"lux_UI lux_single_dealcard cacheid_ea4f650b59b4b81bda3c476fe4f0ef11\">\n\t\n\t<div class=\"dealcard_preview\">\n\t\t<div class=\"splide lux_dealcard_gallery\" data-lux-event=\"gallery_carousel\" data-lux-event-trigger=\"splide-moved\" aria-label=\"Bay of Many Coves Resort, Bay Of Many Coves, New Zealand\"><div class=\"splide__arrows\"><button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--prev\"><\/button><button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--next\"><\/button><\/div><a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/bay-of-many-coves-resort\/1dd2de7b-f327-4b0d-9bca-8565bb509f1d\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP  mapped \" data-name=\"Bay of Many Coves Resort\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\"><div class=\"splide__track\"><div class=\"splide__list\"><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/fcu8dva0nky9aodnmpgi.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/fcu8dva0nky9aodnmpgi.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/fcu8dva0nky9aodnmpgi.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/fcu8dva0nky9aodnmpgi.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/fcu8dva0nky9aodnmpgi.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Bay of Many Coves Resort, Bay Of Many Coves, New Zealand 1\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/oq60m5434l2q3chj6ksh.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/oq60m5434l2q3chj6ksh.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/oq60m5434l2q3chj6ksh.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/oq60m5434l2q3chj6ksh.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/oq60m5434l2q3chj6ksh.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Bay of Many Coves Resort, Bay Of Many Coves, New Zealand 2\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/d222bvic1qfcjpwy34or.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/d222bvic1qfcjpwy34or.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/d222bvic1qfcjpwy34or.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/d222bvic1qfcjpwy34or.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/d222bvic1qfcjpwy34or.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Bay of Many Coves Resort, Bay Of Many Coves, New Zealand 3\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/0669s01rtdh7434ii7j.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/0669s01rtdh7434ii7j.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/0669s01rtdh7434ii7j.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/0669s01rtdh7434ii7j.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/0669s01rtdh7434ii7j.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Bay of Many Coves Resort, Bay Of Many Coves, New Zealand 4\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/aqkvm6tf3duf29qbij6v.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/aqkvm6tf3duf29qbij6v.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/aqkvm6tf3duf29qbij6v.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/aqkvm6tf3duf29qbij6v.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/aqkvm6tf3duf29qbij6v.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Bay of Many Coves Resort, Bay Of Many Coves, New Zealand 5\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/03ma4kvy0r893p6xpte.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/03ma4kvy0r893p6xpte.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/03ma4kvy0r893p6xpte.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/03ma4kvy0r893p6xpte.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/03ma4kvy0r893p6xpte.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Bay of Many Coves Resort, Bay Of Many Coves, New Zealand 6\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/kdfxbjkgf5ue0trvreyt.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/kdfxbjkgf5ue0trvreyt.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/kdfxbjkgf5ue0trvreyt.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/kdfxbjkgf5ue0trvreyt.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/kdfxbjkgf5ue0trvreyt.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Bay of Many Coves Resort, Bay Of Many Coves, New Zealand 7\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/goy96l77g8wggsj5l2.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/goy96l77g8wggsj5l2.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/goy96l77g8wggsj5l2.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/goy96l77g8wggsj5l2.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/goy96l77g8wggsj5l2.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Bay of Many Coves Resort, Bay Of Many Coves, New Zealand 8\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div class=\"dealcard_details\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/bay-of-many-coves-resort\/1dd2de7b-f327-4b0d-9bca-8565bb509f1d\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP deal_card mapped \" data-name=\"Bay of Many Coves Resort\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t\t<div class=\"dealcard_details_inner\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Bay Of Many Coves, New Zealand<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Bay of Many Coves Resort<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Offrez-vous un moment de d\u00e9tente au spa, qui propose des massages, des soins corporels et des soins du visage. Vous pourrez profiter d\u2019\u00e9quipements de loisirs tels qu\u2019une piscine ext\u00e9rieure et un bain \u00e0 remous. Ce lodge propose \u00e9galement un acc\u00e8s Wi-Fi gratuit, des services de conciergerie et une salle de banquet.<\/div><div class=\"rating_box\"><span class=\"rating_count gold \">9.0<\/span><span class=\"rating_label\">Exceptional<\/span><span class=\"rating_reviews\">74 reviews<\/span><\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$3,278<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<span class=\"btn_view_offer\">View offer<\/span>\n\t\t\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/a>\t\t\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For food and wine lovers&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Begin in North Canterbury\u2019s Waipara Valley, where limestone-rich soils and sheltered valleys create perfect growing conditions for Pinot Noir and Riesling. Family-run cellars like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pegasusbay.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Pegasus Bay<\/a> offer tastings that reveal how terroir shapes every sip, and roadside farms sell organic Manuka honey and stone fruit straight from the orchard.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Kaik\u014dura, sustainable seafood takes the spotlight \u2013 local boats deliver fresh crayfish straight to harbourside grills, and whale-watching tours culminate in tastings of locally-caught blue cod prepared with native kawakawa and horopito herbs. Iconic estates like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cloudybay.com\/en-au\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cloudy Bay<\/a> pioneer the <a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/new-zealands-wine-regions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">region\u2019s signature Sauvignon Blancs<\/a>, while boutique producers like <a href=\"https:\/\/allanscott.com\/cellar-door\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Allan Scott<\/a> push boundaries with organic viticulture and experimental blends. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A trip to the lively Saturday farmer\u2019s market in Nelson is a must: local producers sell everything from truffle oils to venison salami, encapsulating the region\u2019s commitment to sustainable, flavour-led food.&nbsp;Head to historic Reefton, where the acclaimed <a href=\"https:\/\/www.reeftondistillingco.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Reefton Distilling Co<\/a> transforms pure alpine water and locally-grown barley into award-winning single malt whisky and gin. Be sure to join a master distiller for an exclusive tasting experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Itinerary: <\/strong>Christchurch \u2013 North Canterbury Wine Region (Waipara Valley) \u2013 Kaik\u014dura \u2013 Reefton \u2013 Nelson.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Recommended duration<\/strong>: Five days<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For outdoor enthusiasts&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Start in tranquil Lake Brunner, where mirror-calm waters reflect surrounding peaks and hidden walking tracks show remnants of 19<sup>th<\/sup>-century gold mining settlements. Nearby <a href=\"https:\/\/westcoast.co.nz\/visit\/discover\/regions\/punakaiki\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Punakaki<\/a> offers more than just the Pancake Rocks; the Pororari River Track winds through ancient subtropical rainforest and past 40-million-year-old fossil formations. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Next stop: Abel Tasman National Park. Weaving through secluded beaches, the 60-kilometre Coast Track is just the beginning: take in the park\u2019s natural splendour by cruise, kayak, helicopter or catamaran. Nearby Richmond Forest Park in Blenheim tests expert hikers with thrilling multi-day alpine treks between backcountry huts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div  class=\"lux_UI lux_single_dealcard cacheid_d80f5e0c89262de8bd76ce756013c2a7\">\n\t\n\t<div class=\"dealcard_preview\">\n\t\t<div class=\"splide lux_dealcard_gallery\" data-lux-event=\"gallery_carousel\" data-lux-event-trigger=\"splide-moved\" aria-label=\"The Marlborough \u2013 Boutique-h\u00f4tel et vignoble, Rapaura, Nouvelle-Z\u00e9lande\"><div class=\"splide__arrows\"><button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--prev\"><\/button><button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--next\"><\/button><\/div><a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/the-marlborough-boutique-hotel-and-vineyard-rapaura-new-zealand\/0062y00000Edn2jAAB\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC  LuxPlus   \" data-name=\"The Marlborough \u2013 Boutique-h\u00f4tel et vignoble\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\"><div class=\"splide__track\"><div class=\"splide__list\"><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/wlg5m423f083461gxwa.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/wlg5m423f083461gxwa.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/wlg5m423f083461gxwa.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/wlg5m423f083461gxwa.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/wlg5m423f083461gxwa.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Marlborough \u2013 Boutique-h\u00f4tel et vignoble, Rapaura, Nouvelle-Z\u00e9lande 1\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/1sft4x7p4nstky6cwnv.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/1sft4x7p4nstky6cwnv.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/1sft4x7p4nstky6cwnv.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/1sft4x7p4nstky6cwnv.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/1sft4x7p4nstky6cwnv.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Marlborough \u2013 Boutique-h\u00f4tel et vignoble, Rapaura, Nouvelle-Z\u00e9lande 2\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/t4bgx50aigfr2fql7817.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/t4bgx50aigfr2fql7817.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/t4bgx50aigfr2fql7817.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/t4bgx50aigfr2fql7817.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/t4bgx50aigfr2fql7817.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Marlborough \u2013 Boutique-h\u00f4tel et vignoble, Rapaura, Nouvelle-Z\u00e9lande 3\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/9h9zwnuvxmc1f18qxfok.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/9h9zwnuvxmc1f18qxfok.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/9h9zwnuvxmc1f18qxfok.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/9h9zwnuvxmc1f18qxfok.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/9h9zwnuvxmc1f18qxfok.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Marlborough \u2013 Boutique-h\u00f4tel et vignoble, Rapaura, Nouvelle-Z\u00e9lande 4\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/1xzzbhhipsy807xkh36.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/1xzzbhhipsy807xkh36.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/1xzzbhhipsy807xkh36.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/1xzzbhhipsy807xkh36.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/1xzzbhhipsy807xkh36.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Marlborough \u2013 Boutique-h\u00f4tel et vignoble, Rapaura, Nouvelle-Z\u00e9lande 5\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/9svwpdjyn8tycw1f686i.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/9svwpdjyn8tycw1f686i.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/9svwpdjyn8tycw1f686i.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/9svwpdjyn8tycw1f686i.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/9svwpdjyn8tycw1f686i.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Marlborough \u2013 Boutique-h\u00f4tel et vignoble, Rapaura, Nouvelle-Z\u00e9lande 6\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/itaj89b3hk8sbbdyn5nn.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/itaj89b3hk8sbbdyn5nn.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/itaj89b3hk8sbbdyn5nn.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/itaj89b3hk8sbbdyn5nn.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/itaj89b3hk8sbbdyn5nn.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Marlborough \u2013 Boutique-h\u00f4tel et vignoble, Rapaura, Nouvelle-Z\u00e9lande 7\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/9lzvr4dgqf397hcy86nf.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/9lzvr4dgqf397hcy86nf.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/9lzvr4dgqf397hcy86nf.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/9lzvr4dgqf397hcy86nf.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/9lzvr4dgqf397hcy86nf.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"The Marlborough \u2013 Boutique-h\u00f4tel et vignoble, Rapaura, Nouvelle-Z\u00e9lande 8\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div class=\"dealcard_details\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/offer\/the-marlborough-boutique-hotel-and-vineyard-rapaura-new-zealand\/0062y00000Edn2jAAB\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer LPC deal_card LuxPlus   \" data-name=\"The Marlborough \u2013 Boutique-h\u00f4tel et vignoble\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t\t<div class=\"dealcard_details_inner\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"tags\"><\/div><div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Rapaura, Nouvelle-Z\u00e9lande<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">The Marlborough \u2013 Boutique-h\u00f4tel et vignoble<\/div><span class=\"inclusions_label\">Inclusions de Luxury Escapes :<\/span><div class=\"inclusions_list\"><div><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/plugins\/le-wordpress-offers-plugin\/assets\/img\/inclusions\/drink_tray.svg\" alt=\"drink_tray\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\"><span>Une bouteille de vin du domaine dans la chambre \u00e0 votre arriv\u00e9e<\/span><\/div><div><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/plugins\/le-wordpress-offers-plugin\/assets\/img\/inclusions\/tennis_ball.svg\" alt=\"tennis_ball\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\"><span>D\u00e9gustation des vins du domaine (s\u00e9jour de 2 nuits ou plus)<\/span><\/div><div><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/plugins\/le-wordpress-offers-plugin\/assets\/img\/inclusions\/crossed_utensils_with_plus.svg\" alt=\"crossed_utensils_with_plus\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\"><span>Cr\u00e9dit de 100 NZ$ pour la restauration (s\u00e9jours de 3 nuits ou plus)<\/span><\/div><div><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/plugins\/le-wordpress-offers-plugin\/assets\/img\/inclusions\/tennis_ball.svg\" alt=\"tennis_ball\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\"><span>Visite du jardin et des vignobles (4 nuits ou plus)<\/span><\/div><div><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/plugins\/le-wordpress-offers-plugin\/assets\/img\/inclusions\/crossed_utensils_with_plus.svg\" alt=\"crossed_utensils_with_plus\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\"><span>Cr\u00e9dit de 150 NZ$ pour la restauration (4 nuits ou plus)<\/span><\/div><div class=\"inclusions_more\"><strong>+1 more<\/strong><\/div><\/div><div class=\"rating_box\"><span class=\"rating_count gold \">9.6<\/span><span class=\"rating_label\">Outstanding<\/span><span class=\"rating_reviews\">90 reviews<\/span><\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">3 nights, 1 room from<\/div><div class=\"range luxplus\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$3,249<\/span><span class=\"type\">total<\/span><span class=\"with_luxplus\"> with <em><\/em><\/span><\/div><div class=\"range range_small\"><span class=\"label\">Non-member<\/span><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$3,303<\/span><\/div><div class=\"tax\">Taxes &amp; fees apply<\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<span class=\"btn_view_offer\">View offer<\/span>\n\t\t\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/a>\t\t\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n<\/div>\n\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\n    \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\",\n    \"@type\": \"Hotel\",\n    \"name\": \"The Marlborough \\u2013 Boutique-h\\u00f4tel et vignoble\",\n    \"address\": {\n        \"@type\": \"PostalAddress\",\n        \"addressLocality\": \"Rapaura\",\n        \"addressCountry\": \"Nouvelle-Z\\u00e9lande\"\n    },\n    \"telephone\": \"+1201 977 8523\",\n    \"aggregateRating\": {\n        \"@type\": \"AggregateRating\",\n        \"ratingValue\": \"4.8\",\n        \"reviewCount\": 90,\n        \"bestRating\": 5,\n        \"worstRating\": 1\n    },\n    \"priceRange\": \"3 nights from $3303 USD\",\n    \"photo\": \"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/wlg5m423f083461gxwa.webp\",\n    \"image\": \"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/1sft4x7p4nstky6cwnv.webp\",\n    \"description\": \"S\\u00e9jour de luxe dans la plus grande r\\u00e9gion viticole de Nouvelle-Z\\u00e9lande avec piscine ext\\u00e9rieure chauff\\u00e9e\",\n    \"amenityFeature\": [\n        {\n            \"@type\": \"LocationFeatureSpecification\",\n            \"name\": \"Une bouteille de vin du domaine dans la chambre \\u00e0 votre arriv\\u00e9e\"\n        },\n        {\n            \"@type\": \"LocationFeatureSpecification\",\n            \"name\": \"D\\u00e9gustation des vins du domaine (s\\u00e9jour de 2 nuits ou plus)\"\n        },\n        {\n            \"@type\": \"LocationFeatureSpecification\",\n            \"name\": \"Cr\\u00e9dit de 100 NZ$ pour la restauration (s\\u00e9jours de 3 nuits ou plus)\"\n        },\n        {\n            \"@type\": \"LocationFeatureSpecification\",\n            \"name\": \"Visite du jardin et des vignobles (4 nuits ou plus)\"\n        },\n        {\n            \"@type\": \"LocationFeatureSpecification\",\n            \"name\": \"Cr\\u00e9dit de 150 NZ$ pour la restauration (4 nuits ou plus)\"\n        },\n        {\n            \"@type\": \"LocationFeatureSpecification\",\n            \"name\": \"Cr\\u00e9dit de 200 NZ$ \\u00e0 valoir sur la restauration (s\\u00e9jours de 5 nuits ou plus)\"\n        }\n    ],\n    \"geo\": {\n        \"@type\": \"GeoCoordinates\",\n        \"latitude\": -41.471469775502236,\n        \"longitude\": 173.9093779027462\n    }\n}<\/script>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The journey ends on a high in Kaik\u014dura and Hanmer Springs. Hike the Peninsula Walkway, a challenging coastal trek where fur seals bask beneath towering cliffs. The walkway\u2019s highlight involves traversing ancient M\u0101ori pa sites (historic fortified settlements) while scanning the water for whales and rare Hector\u2019s dolphins. Afterwards, thrill-seekers can take to the water with jet boating and rafting adventures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Itinerary:<\/strong> Christchurch \u2013 Lake Brunner \u2013 Punakaiki \u2013 Abel Tasman National Park \u2013 Richmond Forest Park \u2013 Peninsula Walkway \u2013 Hanmer Springs \u2013 Christchurch.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Recommended duration<\/strong>: Eight days&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For rest and relaxation&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This itinerary is designed for maximum relaxation, starting with cultural immersion in Wellington before crossing the Cook Strait. In Queen Charlotte Sounds, calm glacial waterways and forested ridges set a serene tone. Luxury lodges like Mahana Lodge, accessible only by boat, provide exclusive private beaches and complete seclusion, where the only sounds are lapping waves. Gentle hikes along the Queen Charlotte Track evoke a slower, more mindful pace.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Nelson, art and nature seamlessly merge as local galleries showcase work inspired by the area\u2019s extraordinary light quality, while the scenic Great Taste Trail winds along the coastline and countryside. Punakaki\u2019s thundering blowholes provide natural sound therapy, balanced by Hokitika\u2019s calming jade-carving workshops that connect travellers to M\u0101ori tradition and meditative practice.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The final leg winds through Cheviot\u2019s rolling farmland and Kaik\u014dura\u2019s mystical waters, where whales surface in contemplative silence. The journey ends with leisurely tastings in Marlborough\u2019s world-renowned vineyards, a fitting finale that celebrates the South Island\u2019s harmony between land and sea.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Itinerary: <\/strong>Wellington \u2013 Queen Charlotte Sounds \u2013 Nelson \u2013&nbsp;Punakaiki \u2013 Hokitika \u2013 Cheviot \u2013 Kaik\u014dura \u2013 Marlborough.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Recommended duration<\/strong>: 12 days<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For romance&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Hanmer Springs opens the journey with private thermal pools under starry skies and boutique stays in heritage buildings. Continue to Kaik\u014dura for sunset whale-watching charters, an unforgettable shared experience as sperm whales breach against glowing horizons.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Blenheim and the Marlborough Sounds provide intimate cellar door experiences, including private tastings in underground caves followed by gourmet picnics amongst vineyard rows. Here, couples-only lodges and private kayak trips offer true privacy; meanwhile, personal chefs craft seven-course dinners featuring local fare. Abel Tasman National Park\u2019s golden beaches become your private stage for barefoot anniversary celebrations, surprise proposals or hand-in-hand strolls.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div  class=\"lux_UI lux_single_dealcard cacheid_c7b3203974513e85267d0b65f17e936c\">\n\t\n\t<div class=\"dealcard_preview\">\n\t\t<div class=\"splide lux_dealcard_gallery\" data-lux-event=\"gallery_carousel\" data-lux-event-trigger=\"splide-moved\" aria-label=\"Flockhill, Lake Pearson, New Zealand\"><div class=\"splide__arrows\"><button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--prev\"><\/button><button class=\"splide__arrow splide__arrow--next\"><\/button><\/div><a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/flockhill\/88d5e645-6b5f-4ddf-a61d-bf3ca4f3b9ca\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP  mapped \" data-name=\"Flockhill\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\"><div class=\"splide__track\"><div class=\"splide__list\"><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/zse6yoe2g5m5edg9ly7j.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/zse6yoe2g5m5edg9ly7j.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/zse6yoe2g5m5edg9ly7j.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/zse6yoe2g5m5edg9ly7j.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/zse6yoe2g5m5edg9ly7j.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Flockhill, Lake Pearson, New Zealand 1\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/cxpj7rkgm43rk8rw7f.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/cxpj7rkgm43rk8rw7f.webp 400w, 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https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/3tbo528kc51lnpd4qth.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Flockhill, Lake Pearson, New Zealand 3\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/xm9w28dy2dxeegz0gnfq.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/xm9w28dy2dxeegz0gnfq.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/xm9w28dy2dxeegz0gnfq.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/xm9w28dy2dxeegz0gnfq.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/xm9w28dy2dxeegz0gnfq.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Flockhill, Lake Pearson, New Zealand 4\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/1rlu70ofrr39rfxjdaee.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/1rlu70ofrr39rfxjdaee.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/1rlu70ofrr39rfxjdaee.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/1rlu70ofrr39rfxjdaee.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/1rlu70ofrr39rfxjdaee.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Flockhill, Lake Pearson, New Zealand 5\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/key1a5q8pachhyioxxgw.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/key1a5q8pachhyioxxgw.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/key1a5q8pachhyioxxgw.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/key1a5q8pachhyioxxgw.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/key1a5q8pachhyioxxgw.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Flockhill, Lake Pearson, New Zealand 6\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/ljyte0lskf9626pft0f.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/ljyte0lskf9626pft0f.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/ljyte0lskf9626pft0f.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/ljyte0lskf9626pft0f.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/ljyte0lskf9626pft0f.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Flockhill, Lake Pearson, New Zealand 7\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><div class=\"splide__slide dealcard_img\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/g58ps9hf4mezw9gqe46.webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_400,h_400\/g58ps9hf4mezw9gqe46.webp 400w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_600,h_600\/g58ps9hf4mezw9gqe46.webp 600w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_800,h_800\/g58ps9hf4mezw9gqe46.webp 800w, https:\/\/images.luxuryescapes.com\/q_auto:eco,c_scale,w_1200,h_1200\/g58ps9hf4mezw9gqe46.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 400px) 400px, 400px\" alt=\"Flockhill, Lake Pearson, New Zealand 8\" width=\"1200\" height=\"1200\"><\/figure><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/a><\/div>\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div class=\"dealcard_details\">\n\t\t\n\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/us\/partner\/flockhill\/88d5e645-6b5f-4ddf-a61d-bf3ca4f3b9ca\" data-le=\"promo\" data-type=\"offer partner LPP deal_card mapped \" data-name=\"Flockhill\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" class=\"offer_link_wrap\">\t\t<div class=\"dealcard_details_inner\">\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"location\"><i><\/i><span>Lake Pearson, New Zealand<\/span><\/div><div class=\"name\">Flockhill<\/div><div class=\"tagline\">Profitez des infrastructures de loisirs, notamment des v\u00e9los \u00e0 louer, ou admirez la vue depuis la terrasse et le jardin. Ce lodge propose \u00e9galement l\u2019acc\u00e8s Wi-Fi gratuit, une chemin\u00e9e dans le hall et une aire de pique-nique.<\/div><div class=\"rating_box\"><span class=\"rating_count gold \">9.0<\/span><span class=\"rating_label\">Exceptional<\/span><span class=\"rating_reviews\">90 reviews<\/span><\/div><div class=\"deal_info\"><div class=\"nights\">Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from<\/div><div class=\"range\"><span class=\"currency\">US<\/span><span class=\"price\">$8,790<\/span><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<span class=\"btn_view_offer\">View offer<\/span>\n\t\t\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/a>\t\t\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The journey winds to a close amid the West Coast\u2019s wild beauty. Punakaiki\u2019s dramatic cliffs lead to Reefton\u2019s cosy historic inns, featuring whisky tastings beside crackling fires. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.maruiahotsprings.nz\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Maruia Hot Springs<\/a>&#8216; riverside thermal pools provide the perfect romantic finale, surrounded by native forest where couples can disconnect from the world whilst connecting with each other.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Itinerary: <\/strong>Hanmer Springs \u2013 Kaik\u014dura \u2013 Blenheim \u2013 Marlborough Sounds \u2013&nbsp;Abel Tasman National Park&nbsp;\u2013 Punakaiki \u2013 Reefton \u2013 Maruia Springs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Recommended duration<\/strong>: Seven days<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover spectacular driving routes through the Top of the South region, offering a quieter, equally stunning alternative to the tourist-packed trails to Milford Sound and Mount Cook.&nbsp; New Zealand\u2019s South Island harbours some of the world\u2019s most spectacular road trip routes. Dramatic mountain ranges give way to golden beaches, ancient forests conceal underground cave systems [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":55,"featured_media":39069,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false},"categories":[24],"tags":[58,12,17,7,60,26,321,13,54],"location":[],"customertype":[],"class_list":["post-39068","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-new-zealand","tag-beach","tag-bucket-list","tag-family-friendly","tag-food-wine","tag-hiking","tag-islands","tag-off-grid","tag-outdoor-adventure","tag-tips-advice"],"acf":{"enable_partner_branding":true,"brand_name":"Top of the South","brand_logo_top":37312,"brand_logo_footer":37308,"brand_snippet":"","brand_website":"https:\/\/www.topofthesouthnz.com\/","brand_sidebar_banner":""},"lang":"en","translations":{"en":39068,"fr":63506,"de":63509},"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Untitled-design.jpg","pll_sync_post":{},"lux_id":39068,"lux_link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/road-trip-new-zealands-south-island\/","lux_title":"5 Underrated Road Trips in New Zealand\u2019s South Island\u00a0","lux_excerpt":"Discover spectacular driving routes through the Top of the South region, offering a quieter, equally stunning alternative to the tourist-packed trails to Milford Sound and Mount Cook.\u00a0 New Zealand\u2019s South Island harbours some of the world\u2019s most spectacular road trip routes. Dramatic mountain ranges give way to golden beaches, ancient forests conceal underground cave systems [\u2026]","lux_excerpt_trimmed":"Discover spectacular driving routes through the Top of the South region, offering a quieter, equally stunning alternative to the tourist-packed trails to Milford Sound and Mount Cook.\u00a0 New Zealand\u2019s South","lux_image_url":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Untitled-design.jpg","lux_image_url_medium":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Untitled-design-350x233.jpg","lux_image_url_large":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Untitled-design-1024x683.jpg","lux_image_url_square":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/Untitled-design-500x500.jpg","lux_categories":[{"label":"New Zealand","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/destinations\/new-zealand\/"}],"lux_tags":[{"label":"Beach","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/beach\/"},{"label":"Bucket List","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/bucket-list\/"},{"label":"Family Friendly","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/family-friendly\/"},{"label":"Food &amp; Wine","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/food-wine\/"},{"label":"Hiking","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/hiking\/"},{"label":"Islands","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/islands\/"},{"label":"Off-Grid","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/off-grid\/"},{"label":"Outdoor &amp; Adventure","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/outdoor-adventure\/"},{"label":"Tips &amp; Advice","link":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/tag\/tips-advice\/"}],"lux_locations":[],"lux_customer_types":[],"lux_read_time":"6 min read","lux_read_time_minutes":6,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39068","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/55"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=39068"}],"version-history":[{"count":20,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39068\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":39272,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/39068\/revisions\/39272"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/39069"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=39068"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=39068"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=39068"},{"taxonomy":"location","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/location?post=39068"},{"taxonomy":"customertype","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/luxuryescapes.com\/inspiration\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/customertype?post=39068"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}