Depart Christchurch via Main North Road and State Highway 1. Few places in the world can boast of such natural wonders as those offered by land and sea at Kaikoura. Stop at Waimakariri River for a jetboat trip - turn off northern motorway to the right directly after Waimakariri River Bridge, only 15 minutes from the city. Bookings are essential. Continue north onto Kaiapoi and sail down the Kaiapoi and Waimakariri Rivers to the edge of the South Pacific Ocean onboard the MV Tuhoe, a fully restored historic ship.
Bookings are essential, sailings on timetabled days or by charter.
Possible stops also at Pegasus Bay and Waipara Springs Vineyard as you continue north or even at the Cider Garden just south of Amberley . For rail enthusiasts a visit to the Weka Pass Railway in Waipara is a must - but check to see operating days as they remain seasonal. Continue north through some of New Zealand's finest rolling rural countrywide. Out to the coast from Cheviot lies Gore Bay and the locally famous Cathedral formations up a short walking track just south of the bay - enquire at Cheviot tearooms for details. Admire the rocky coastline that dominates towards the end of your journey.