Itinerary - Nelson and Marlborough to the West Coast
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Jasons Top & Central South Island RoutePlanner now.
We've put together a suggested itinerary which takes in the main sightseeing and activities of the region.
Day 1 - Picton - Blenheim - Nelson
Day 2 - Nelson - Marahau - Motueka
Day 3 - Motueka - Takaka - Nelson
Day 4 - Nelson - Murchison
Day 5 - Westport - Punakaiki - Greymouth
- Drive to Westport following the scenic Buller River (2 hours). Perhaps take a thrilling jetboat ride with Buller Adventure Tours
- From Westport drive southwards on State Highway 6, stopping at Punakaiki (40 minutes) to see the Pancake Rocks and blowholes.
- Continue southwards to Greymouth (1 hour) and visit some of its attractions, including Monteith's Brewing Co and the Jade Boulder Gallery. Shantytown, an authentic replica 1860s gold rush town, is also worth a visit.
- Dine and stay overnight in Greymouth.
- Westport travel guide
- Punakaiki travel guide
- Greymouth travel guide
- Greymouth accommodation
- Greymouth attractions
Day 6 - Greymouth
- Take any one of numerous guided tours that include horse trekking, eco-rafting, cave rafting, 4WD tours, wildlife tours and fishing. Perhaps an off-road adventure with On Yer Bike.
- Return to stay overnight in Greymouth.
- Greymouth travel guide
Day 7 - Greymouth - Lake Brunner - Hokitika
- Drive to Lake Brunner (30 minutes), calling at the Moana Kiwi House and Conservation Park.
- Lake tours, pottery and arts and crafts are available from the lakeside.
- Lunch here before continuing on the Stillwater-Jacksons Road, looping back to State Highway 6 and continuing to Hokitika.
- Check out the many craft outlets in Hokitika or visit Westland's Waterworld.
- Stay overnight in Hokitika.
- Lake Brunner travel guide
- Hokitika travel guide
Day 8 - Hokitika - Mount Cook - Franz Josef - Fox Glacier