Nelson and Farewell Spit From $4,950 per person

Saturday 14 Feb 2026 – Thursday 19 Feb 2026 (6 Days)

Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Farewell Spit, a stunning 30-kilometre stretch of land only accessible by guided tour.

Our journey begins in Nelson, where we visit the Nelson Classic Cars Museum before heading to Abel Tasman National Park for a full-day cruise. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters and golden beaches, see the famous Split Apple Rock, and explore the Fur Seal Colony during this unforgettable cruise experience. Next, venture to Farewell Spit Nature Reserve, where a 4WD tour unveils the secrets of this remarkable region, including a visit to Cape Farewell, the northernmost point of the South Island. Explore dramatic coastal cliffs, the historic lighthouse, Fossil Point, and enjoy panoramic views of the Tasman Sea. Take in panoramic views from the sand dunes and learn about the area’s rich history, ecology, and wildlife.

Other highlights include an overnight stay in the alpine village of Hanmer Springs, offering time to explore at leisure, and a sightseeing tour of Christchurch, complemented by a scenic journey aboard the restored heritage Christchurch Tram. With picturesque landscapes, rich history, and a range of exciting activities, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through New Zealand’s South Island.

Day 1          Saturday 14 February 2026 

ARRIVE NELSON                                                            (D) 

We begin our tour today with a flight from Auckland to Nelson. Located on the shores of Port Nelson, the city is home to a fascinating community of beach, bush, and art lovers. It is New Zealand’s largest fishing port and one of the country’s sunniest cities. On arrival, we visit the Classic Cars Museum, where we experience a world-class collection of classic cars. After our museum visit, we arrive at our accommodation and enjoy a group dinner at the hotel.  

Accommodation: The Hotel Nelson – 1 night 

 Day 2          Sunday 15 February 2026    

NELSON – ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK – TĀKAKA                                                            (BLD) 

We continue our journey to the nearby picturesque Kaiteriteri, the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park, where we will enjoy a full-day cruise on board a comfortable sailing vessel. Whether you choose to chill out and soak up the sun, get hands-on with the sailing, or learn the ropes as you go, the experience is entirely up to you. Enjoy panoramic views, spacious decks for socialising, and the thrill of a great sailing experience as we explore breathtaking beaches and islands. On show are stunning granite and marble formations, golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear streams that join the ocean. Lunch is included and there will be some time to relax on Anchorage Beach – a great opportunity to go swimming or perhaps take a short walk. On the return journey to Kaiteriteri Beach, visit the iconic Fur Seal Colony, see the famous Split Apple Rock, and much more. This day sailing excursion offers the perfect opportunity to experience the highlights of Abel Tasman National Park. 

The cruise departs from Kaiteriteri Beach at 10 am, returning at 4:30 pm. 

Essential to wear/take: A day bag, layers of warm clothing, wind-proof jacket, shoes that are easily removable, swimwear & towel, a water bottle, plenty of sunscreen (SPF 30+ is best), sun hat, sunglasses and camera! 

Back at Kaiteriteri, we board our vehicle and then head over the Tākaka Hill before reaching Tākaka where we will stay for the next two nights. This evening, we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, experiencing the local dining scene. 

Accommodation: Mohua Motel, Tākaka – 2 nights 

Day 3          Monday 16 February 2026  

TĀKAKA – FAREWELL SPIT – TĀKAKA                                                            (BLD) 

After enjoying breakfast at a restaurant in Tākaka, there will be some time at leisure before we travel north to Collingwood, where we stop for an early lunch at a local restaurant. After enjoying breakfast at a restaurant in Tākaka, we travel north to Collingwood, where we stop for an early lunch at a local restaurant. Following this, we board a 4-Wheel Drive vehicle for an unforgettable Farewell Spit Tour, exploring Cape Farewell, the northernmost point of the South Island. Dramatic coastal cliffs are sliced through with fault lines (vertically walled slashes), streams are strangely running inland rather than to sea and at the base of the Spit, Fossil Point is a popular place for NZ fur seals. Travelling along the ocean beach we stop at the Lighthouse reserve, where we check out the lighthouse and pouwhenua to discover the connection between the local Iwi and Onetahua (Farewell Spit). There will be time to enjoy refreshments in the lighthouse keepers’ cottage and soak up some local history. We leave the lighthouse behind to climb a sand dune (optional) at Mullet Channel to experience the panoramic views of the ocean beach. It’s a spectacular sight, gazing over the dunes along the centre of the spit and out to the inter-tidal plain. Hear the history of Pūponga and New Zealand’s first Radar Station, see where whales strand, and uncover the mystery of the migrant waders. After this exciting Farewell Spit excursion, we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.  

 Day 4          Tuesday 17 February 2026  

TĀKAKA – HANMER SPRINGS                                                            (BD) 

As we leave Tākaka this morning we travel via the Upper Moutere Highway to Kawatiri Junction to view the interpretation panels on “The Nelson Rail Network”. Stopping in Murchison for lunch (own cost), we then visit the breathtaking Maruia Falls, a majestic 10-metre waterfall where the open rocky riverbed provides spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. From here, we continue our journey along the scenic Lewis Pass Road, arriving at Hanmer Springs for our overnight stay. This alpine village is New Zealand’s premier alpine and spa destination set amongst dramatic vistas of towering forests and mountains. Take the opportunity here to have a swim in the wonderful thermal complex (own cost) or explore the local sights at your own leisure. We enjoy dinner tonight at a local restaurant.  

Accommodation: Scenic Views Motel, Hanmer Springs – 1 night  

 Day 5          Wednesday 18 February 2026 

HANMER SPRINGS – CHRISTCHURCH                                                            (BD) 

Heading south after breakfast at a local café, we journey to Christchurch, where we will enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city. Highlights include the River Avon, Christchurch Art Gallery; Bridge of Remembrance and the Spanish Mission-inspired New Regent Street.  Learn about the effects of the 2011 Christchurch Earthquakes and how the city is rebuilding.  There will also be time available to purchase lunch (own cost). After lunch, we visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a beautifully cultivated 21-hectare park featuring over 10 distinct gardens framed by mature trees and expansive lawns. Next, we step back in time aboard the restored heritage Christchurch Tram, enjoying a scenic journey through the evolving city centre, still showcasing its resilience and transformation since the 2011 earthquake. Finally, we arrive at our accommodation, where we gather for a memorable farewell dinner at our hotel, reflecting on the day’s experiences. 

Accommodation: Hotel Elms, Christchurch – 1 night  

 Day 6          Thursday 19 February 2026  

DEPART CHRISTCHURCH                                                            (B) 

This morning after breakfast at the hotel we are transferred to Christchurch Airport to return to Auckland, full of wonderful memories of our enjoyable experiences together.