Top Of The South

Picton (Jan 15th)

After a relaxed start to the day, we head down to the marina to join one of the last remaining ‘genuine’ Mail Boats left in the world, still delivering mail and groceries as it has been for over a century. We cruise the majestic Western route of the sounds, delivering goods to isolated homesteads nestled in quiet secluded bays. 

A picnic style lunch is organised for today, and we visit a mussel farm and see how this area got the name of the green lipped mussel capital of the world! We carry on delivering the last of the mail and return to Havelock approx 4pm.

Nelson (16th Jan)

After a scrummy breakfast we’ll hit the road for a short drive out the Nelson Adventure Park to tackle the Skywire Experience.

You start with a 4km ride in a 4-wheel drive shuttle van, passing through pristine native forest while the guides entertain you with facts about the park’s diverse native environment, cultural aspects and fun stories.

The Skywire is set 300m above the base café and has incredible views of Cable and Delaware Bays, the western ranges and north towards D’urville island. On a clear day you can even see the snow-capped peak of Mount Taranaki.

One of the World’s longest Flying Fox’s. This one of a kind experience is an amazing scenic ride with a shot of adrenaline flying high above the forest canopy. If you would rather not partake in this activity then simply relax in the cafe amongst the gorgeous natural environment before we all meet for lunch at the Base Cafe.

Then, enjoy a relaxing stroll around the Founders Heritage Park, where we will enjoy the charms of days gone by at this great attraction including a train ride around the park. 

We aim to get back to give you some R&R time before meeting again for another delicious dinner. If time permits in the afternoon and you want to have a look around the Nelson CBD, Jase will happily drop you off and pick you up again before tea.

Accommodation: The Tides Hotel

Nelson - Golden Bay (17th Jan)

After breakfast, it’s time to depart Nelson and head to one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal areas. Before we arrive at Abel Tasman National Park, we will stop at the charming seaside village of Mapua. Situated by the stunning Waimea Estuary, Mapua Wharf is a beautiful location to wander the shops or to get yourself some morning tea.

Golden Bay  (18th Jan)

After breakfast, we head out to what will surely be a highlight as we embark on the amazing eco tour of Farewell Spit. From Collingwood, we will board the purpose-built coach for this is a great afternoon of exploring. 

We travel right out to the historic lighthouse located about 27 km along the beach, and this is where we will have our picnic style lunch. Our journey also includes a stop in Puponga and at the most northern point on the South Island, Cape Farewell. The knowledge of the guides will amaze you and after this great day we make our way back to Takaka where we’ll have fish n chips on-site at our accommodation before hitting the sack for the night.

Accommodation: Mohua Motels

Golden Bay (19th Jan)

Today, we bid farewell to Golden Bay and retrace our path over the hill but not before some more fun, sightseeing and a spot of fishing.

We will visit Te Waikoropupu Springs (Pupu Springs) which are known for the clarity of the water and are the largest freshwater springs in New Zealand. If you don’t want to head out on this 45min loop walk simply relax at the motel and we’ll collect you on the way to the Anatoki Salmon Farm where you have the chance to catch your own lunch!  If fishing is not your thing, then the guide will help you to land the big one then we all sit down together and enjoy a variety of freshly smoked Salmon meals (alternative meals can be arranged).

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Blenheim (20th Jan)

After a hearty breakfast we get stuck into another fabulous and relaxing day out.

We head to Picton and board our boat cruising to Furneaux Lodge through Queen Charlotte Sound/Tōtaranui arriving in time for lunch at the Furneaux Restaurant. Enjoy a delicious 2 course lunch and relax on the sweeping lawn overlooking Endeavour Inlet.

Explore the grounds, do a short walk or simply drink in the views until it’s time to meet at the jetty for the scenic cruise home.

We are then transferred back to our accommodation for our final group dinner together and maybe a wee tipple to finish the evening off.

Accommodation: Scenic Hotel

Blenheim (21st Jan)

After breakfast we make our way to Picton to catch our 9:30am ferry back to Wellington. There will be plenty of time to get yourself some lunch as we head over the strait. 

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