Top of the South by Magic Bus

Tour Itinerary

CHRISTCHURCH - KAIKOURA

WHALE WATCHING, SEAL COLONIES, GREEN GLOBE COMMUNITY

Upon leaving the Christchurch we follow the rugged coastline up to Kaikoura. We have allowed 2 nights in Kaikoura so you don't miss out on the chance to experience the amazing natural wonders of whale watching or dolphin/seal swimming; make sure you don't miss out! The name 'Kaikoura' translates to 'meal of crayfish' so back on dry land make sure you try some fresh Crayfish or indulge in a traditional New Zealand fish & chip dinner here, voted one of the best places to do so! The sea is teeming with fish and you might want to jump on a fishing trip and catch your own dinner!

Kaikoura has been awarded the international tourism standard 'Green Globe', a process developed to reduce the environmental impact of the community and the visitors and ensures that Kaikoura stays clean, green and beautiful. Approximate arrival time in Kaikoura is 3.00pm.

KAIKOURA - PICTON - NELSON

A slightly more leisurely departure time this morning so enjoy a lie in! We keep following the coast north, travelling through famous hilly pastures and wine country of Marlborough to Picton. If you are travelling to Nelson, stay onboard the coach and you will arrive late afternoon.

Approximate arrival time in Nelson is 3.30pm

Jump off the tourist route today and stay at: Blenheim or Picton

NELSON - GREYMOUTH

BREWERY TOUR, WHITEBAIT FRITTERS, 'COASTER' HOSPITALITY

After leaving Nelson, we journey over the Hope Saddle and through the picturesque Buller Gorge to New Zealand's 'Wild West Coast'. This is one of the more remote, rugged and most sparsely populated areas of the country. Today you will become aware of the amazing scenery and warm welcome that the West Coast is famous for. First stop on the coast is Cape Foulwind, named so by Captain Cook after his ship was blown off course here as he explored New Zealand's waters. The cape is home to a New Zealand Fur Seal breeding colony which you will have the chance to view. Travelling south down the 'Coast Road', one of the most spectacular coastal drives in the world and on through Paparoa National Park, acoastal forest with limestone cliffs, canyons, caves and home to the famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. We stop off here to view these amazing rock formations which are especially dramatic when the sea is in full swing. Jump back onboard and enjoy coastal views all the way to Greymouth, our overnight stop. Tonight in Greymouth we recommend you take part in a tour of the (very kiwi) Monteiths Brewery including beer tasting and dinner at a local pub (hotel). It's a great chance to meet some of the interesting locals and fellow travellers. Approximate arrival time in Greymouth is 5.00pm.

Hop off the bus today and stay at: Punakaiki

TranzAlpine Train: Greymouth to Christchurch

BEECH RAINFORESTS, SOUTHERN ALPS, PLAINS

This trip has been named as one of the world's great scenic rail journeys. You will travel from Greymouth on the west coast across to Christchurch on the east coast in four and a half hours. Words really don't do this fantastic journey justice whether in winter snow or during summer.

Approximate arrival time in Christchurch is 6.00pm.