Christchurch is an exciting city undergoing a rebirth after a devastating series of earthquakes in 2010 and 2011. The largest city in the South Island, it is a must see destination for travellers and the perfect jump off point to the rest of the Canterbury region. We started with a tour of Christchurch as we arrived. Wazza our bus driver gave us some ideas of things to do in the afternoon after an informal tour of the city. We had arrived on Anzac Day which mean...

Translated in Maori as 'teka' sleeping mat and 'po' night. Tekapo was originally a rest stop Enrique to My Cook and Otago. Lake Tekapo became a 'hydro-town' in the late 1940s when the canals and dams of the Waitaki River were commissioned. Now Lake Twkapo has a permanent population of 318 it is a popular destination for travellers. The turquoise colour of the lake is created by 'rock flour'. The glaciers in the headwaters of Tekapo grind rock into fine dust on t...

With an early departure from Invercargil we woke up in plenty of time so we could get near the front of the bus to make the journey more pleasant. On route we visited; Lake Manapouri, Te Anau, drove through Eglington river valley, Mirror lakes, Lake Gunn and Falls creek which I am sure on a bright day would have all had beautiful views. The highlight of our bottom bus and the Southland had to be spectacular Milford Sound, a spectacular journey that includes a t...

Between Dunedin and Invercargill lies the Catlins Coast, arguably the most spectacular terrain with seemingly endless rivers, waterfalls and coastal bays. We visited the steep headland of Nugget Point were we took a walk to the lighthouse and we spotted seals in the bay. On a good day you can spy various species of penguins, Hooker's sea lions, Elephant seals, fur seals, and even Hectors dolphins. After Nugget point we visited Cannibal Bay where we watched sea ...

After many late nights in NZ’s party town, we were picked up 10.30am. The bus followed the mighty Clutha River through Central Otago’s orchard and ever-growing wine area, we were headed for the coast. We passed landmarks on route to Dunedin. Stopping for lunch in the old town Clyde and it’s hydro-electric dam. We arrived into NZ’s most vibrant student town – Dunedin. Where we were given a tour around the city and visited the view lookout before headin...