If you decide to travel between islands by ferry, Picton is where you will enter the South Island. Spend a little time sipping your way around this wine growing region. Apart from sensational sauvignon blanc the scenery is breathtaking.

Christchurch to the south is about 4 1/2hrs from Piction and the gateway to the South Island. En route overnight in Kaikoura and go whale watching. Christchurch, known as the city of churches, is an easy city to explore on foot. A popular tour to take from Christchurch is the Tranz Alpine & High Country Explorer.

3.5 Star
Great location right in the heart of Christchurch. Excellent value for money.

4 Star Apartment Style
Fully self contained apartments in central location.

5 Star
A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World - this is the most luxurious hotel in Christchurch.

The International Antarctic Centre - this is a must on a visit to Christchurch. Because of Christchurch's geographical proximity to the continent of Antarctica, it is the lifeline to this frozen continent. The centre has displays on everything from marine life found in the icy waters, historical information, displays of high tec clothing worn by scientists to actual video footage of what life is like at McMurdo Research Station. You could easily spend the best part of a day here. I have visited on two separate occasions and found it to be fascinating both times.