Start/Finish: Christchurch/Christchurch

Distance: 451 km (282 miles) 3 days

En-Route: Kaikoura: Whale Watch is New Zealand's only marine-based whale watching experience with up-close encounters with the giant Sperm Whale all year.  Book in advance.  Dolphin Encounter offer watching and swimming with dusky dolphins.  Hanmer Springs: Thermal Pools offer the ultimate in relaxation or child fun.  Thrillseekers Canyon offer jet-boating thrills, river rafting, bungy jumping, quad bikes and more.  Hanmer Adventure can hook you up with a range of action activities from mountain biking to horse treking.  Wai ariki Nature Park is purpose built to allow you and your children to interact with a range of friendly animals.  North Canterbury and Waipara host a selection of fine wineries including: Daniel Schuster  Mount Cass  Pegasus Bay  Torlesse Wines  Waipara Springs  Opihi Vineyard.