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Useful Youtubes

https://youtu.be/7PJA-BBTRIg?si=U9Wo8LlW9pHLs52M

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https://myqueenstowndiary.com/new-zealand-road-trip-page/

https://kateabroad.com/south-island-10-day-itinerary/

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Every trip to the Tasman Glacier is different because the ice is constantly moving, and we're so grateful that we got to experience it on this particular day. After a week of heavy rain, there were huge crevasses and waterfalls which were completely new for our guides.

The weather can change quite dramatically in this area, but all tours are generally refundable if they need to be cancelled because of the weather. If you're interested in taking a scenic flight or helicopter hike, we'd recommend booking it on one of the earliest days of your trip. That way it can always be postponed for a later day if it clears up.

If you're taking a scenic flight with or without a landing (rather than a glacier hike), you'll need to wear closed shoes. For the glacier hikes, tour operators provide everything that you need (warm clothes, waterproof boots, crampons, a trekking pole, and a waterproof bag), but it definitely helps to bring your own items like an inner lining, gloves, sunscreen, sunglasses and beanies. It's also recommended that you take a bottle of water with you.

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Everything you need to know about visiting the Tasman Glacier - Ling and Jace

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We heard there could be a small window to reach New Zealand's largest glacier-but we'd need to drive back quickly.

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Hey Gemma… you can delete this and add things that interest you in NZ!

Clik ‘+’ the the purple link symbol bottom left to paste in a webage link…. Just delete what you don’ want here…

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It's not just our sense of humour that's dry. We have the lowest rainfall in the country.

Alexandra & Clyde

Alexandra, established in 1862 in the gold mining era, is nestled where the Clutha Mata-au and Manuherikia rivers meet. 'Alex' as it's affectionately known by locals, is a wine and fruit growing haven and home to a community that thrives on recreation and outdoor adventure. You'll also never forget the time, with the famous 11 metre tall 'Clock on the Hill' standing watch across the township.

North west along the Clutha River sits the small and perfectly preserved goldmining town of Clyde, well known for its giant hydro dam, built during NZ's 'Think Big' era. Clyde has its roots in gold, fruit orchards and as the start (or finish) of the Otago Central Rail Trail. The towns reputation has grown thanks to its old world charm, historic buildings, boutique shops and cafes. And with world class vineyards in every direction, you can take your palate somewhere it hasn't been before.

Through the seasons there are numerous local events in Alexandra and Clyde that celebrate community and the best of the region, from the long running Alexandra Blossom Festival, Clyde Wine & Food Festival, to racing the hills (up or down) with the Linger and Die and Revolution mountain bike races, or even a run through the vineyards.

Cycling & Mountain Biking

The mountains are much more than a backdrop to our easier cycle trails.

Get rolling

Alexandra Basin Wines

Spend some quality time with your taste buds.

Taste this place

The clock on the hill

The iconic Alexandra clock on the hill has kept the town on time since 1968.

Get walking

Alexandra, Clyde and the surrounding townships are home to a diverse range of businesses, community groups, creatives, artisan producers.

Whether you need your tap fixed, want to join a gym, or wondering where you can buy local products. Our Community and Business directory will help connect you with the local options.

Our Communities

Alexandra

Alexandra is a gold mining town at its heart with its personality very much rooted farming and the outdoors. The riverside town and it's surrounding hills have spectacular walking and cycling trails and mountain biking tracks that take you on a journey through beautiful country and old gold mining trails. For many years Alexandra has welcomed generations of campers and the tradition continues today with it being one of New Zealand's offically recognised 'Motorhome Friendly Town's.

Located at the junction of two of New Zealand's great ride cycle trails, and with a variety of single track mountain biking trails on its doorstep, a competitive BMX track and kids bike park, it would be a rare day indeed to not see cyclists in town. This place, its landscape and climate are known for inspiring people to be in the outdoors enjoying trails that are second to none.

Alexandra has a semi-continental climate with hot and dry summers and extremely cold winters. If you like extremes, you have a lot in common with our pinot noir grapes. The mineral-rich soils and climate are perfect for pinot noir vineyards and the town boasts a talented bunch of wine growers who harvest pretty epic vino. Be sure to make time for some wine tasting and a yarn at our boutique vineyards and cellar doors.

During the summer and autumn the fruit stalls are laden with fresh goodies. Fill up your picnic basket with tangy apricots, crisp apples, cherries like you've never tasted and peaches. The treats around here are fresh as.

For the golf nuts among you - book yourself a round on the desert like terrain and test your skills on the narrow fairways of the Alexandra Golf Club - with vistas out towards the Old Man, Hawkdun, Dunstan and Knobby Ranges.

For a heritage walk with a bit of a difference, explore the vast moonscape of the gold digging and dredge sites at the Earnscleugh Tailings - a nationally significant site as it's the only complete record of dredging activity from 1863 - 1963

And for those keen on getting up into Central's big skies, Alexandra has a small airport, popular with amateur aviation enthusiasts.

Clyde

The town of Clyde is steeped in history and culture and would have been rammed with rowdy gold miners in the 1860s. Take your time to explore the perfectly preserved historic buildings, precinct and two museums. Enjoy a potter around the boutique shops showcasing local merino wool and yarns, art, homeware, jewellery, wine and many other delectable gifts for yourself or others.

Play a round of golf, walk the river track or start or finish your cycling trip on the Otago Central Rail Trail or Roxburgh Gorge Trail from here.

Make time to sip a Central Otago wine under big sunny skies. Although modern day Central Otago wines began production in the 1980's, a Frenchman called Jean Desire Feraud was the first to plant vines at Monte Christo near Clyde way back in the 1860's. He must have known something as although Monte Christo is nowadays a summer berry 'farm' the surrounding area is producing fabulous and complex wines that are celebrated each year at the Clyde Wine and Food Harvest Festival. Held on Easter Sunday the festival takes over the main street of town for a day of fabulous local wine, food and music.

It's hard to miss the large concrete hydro dam sitting above the town that created Lake Dunstan. The lake is a popular water playground year round for swimming, boating, rowing, kayaking, fishing and more. The lookout above Clyde provides stunning views toward Cromwell and is a popular place to capture vista's of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Omakau

Omakau was an old farming town that found a new lease of life when the railway was built in 1905. Relaxed and rural, Omakau features historic buildings including the Old Stone Stable at the back of the Omakau Commercial Hotel which was originally the first homestead, built in 1898.

Hop off the bike or settle in after your fishing trip for a well-earned glass of wine or craft beer and a nosebag, or there's a nice picnic spot at Thomson's Creek Bridge.

Check out the grand St Peter's catholic church on the hilltop to the north of the town. Enjoy a game of golf at the 9-hole golf course with beautiful views, or there's a bowling green and tennis courts for the sporty.

If you're visiting over the Christmas and New Year period, don't miss the Omakau races - the event draws large crowds and is a superb family day out with on and off track entertainment, food, drink and lots of merriment.

Ophir

Ophir is a small town but an overachiever in terms of living history. Ophir was previously known as Blacks, after Charles Black - a landowner who came good when gold was discovered in his back yard. Fun fact: the name of the town was changed to Ophir in 1875 after the biblical land where the Queen of Sheba gave gold to King Solomon.

Take a stroll down Swindon Street, admire the stone kerbing, the post and telegraph office, courthouse and jail, bakery, cottages, church and shops. The post office opened in 1886 and is New Zealand's oldest continually operated post office. Send a postcard from here and it'll get rubber stamped with a gold miner's pick and shovel.

Admire the attractive schist structure and engineering of one of Central Otago's few remaining suspension bridges that spans the Manuherikia River at Ophir. Built in 1880 and named after Daniel O'Connell, an Irish hero (the area was heavily populated by Irish Catholic immigrants at the time), the bridge was originally made from wood then rebuilt with prefabricated steel shipped out from the UK. The one-lane bridge has one end extending through solid rock.

Ophir holds the record for New Zealand's coldest winter temperature at -21C. A great location for winter photos, fishing and picnicking when it's not -21 degrees, of course!

Chatto Creek

Sitting at the foot of 'Tiger Hill' is the small settlement of Chatto Creek, with its historic hotel and New Zealand's smallest post office taking pride of place. The original part of the old stone hotel was built in 1886 as a Cobb & Co coach stopover. Oh if these walls could talk! Over its 135 years of serving refreshments they will have heard the chatter of miners, rabbiters, railwaymen, irrigation workers, farmers and, today, friendly locals mixing with cyclists from all over the world enjoying their time on the Otago Central Rail Trail.

The views from Tiger Hill towards the soft folds of the Magdalen hills are a favourite. The way the light plays on the landscape here creates a vista that is captured by many photographers, whatever the season.

Share your Central - #centralotagonz

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If there was an area that could claim the home of cycling in NZ, then Alexandra & Clyde would be a top contender. The areas reputation has grown thanks to its small town charm, historic buildings, boutique shops and cafes.

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Walk to the well known and often photographed Purakaunui Falls.

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Things to see and do in Clyde, New Zealand

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In historic Clyde you can make yourself comfortable in a cafe or hire a mountain bike to explore the surrounding hills.

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Milford Sound Information | Cruises & Tours

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Discover Milford Sound, New Zealand’s most spectacular natural attraction. Find Milford Sound information on tours, cruises, getting there and more.

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I haven’t compared companies… aso swimming with dolphins, seal colonies…

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Whale Watch Kaikoura is one of the most popular tourist attractions in New Zealand. Experience the magic of Kaikōura whale watching with one of our tours.

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Hey Rap… you can delete this and add things that interest you in NZ!

Clik ‘+’ the the purple link symbol bottom left to paste in a webage link…

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Blue Lakes and Tasman Glacier View Walk | Christchurch - Canterbury, New Zealand

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Discover New Zealand's longest glacier with this walk that takes in alpine-fed lakes and glacier moulded landscapes.

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Tekapo: Mt Cook Day Tour with Pukaki, Tasman, & Tekapo Lake

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Wellington Museum (Mum loved it)

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The 40-minute Red Rocks walk goes from Owhiro Bay to the Red Rocks on the rugged South coast of Wellington. The rocks themselves were formed 200 million years ago from undersea volcanic eruptions - iron oxide gives the rocks their interesting colouring. Choose to continue on to Sinclair Head where there is a fur seal colony.

The fascinating island of Matiu/Somes, clearly visible in Wellington Harbour, is steeped in fascinating history. Take the 40-minute track that circumnavigates the island, offering spectacular views over the harbour. Reach the island on the daily ferry service which runs from the city to the island.

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Great Journeys New Zealand Railway Map for Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific & TranzApline trains - Google My Maps

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A map of all routes and stations on the Great Journeys New Zealand Railway Network

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11 hrs - About NZ$200

Can stop off along the way….

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Explore the rural heart of New Zealand's North Island on this epic 648km journey from Auckland to Wellington by train.

Our Northern Explorer train connects multi-cultural Auckland with our bustling capital, Wellington. With unique blends of international prestige and local culture, both are excellent places to start or finish your adventure.

See the scenic wonders of Middle Earth, soar over towering viaducts, across the high plains of the volcanic plateau, and beneath three mighty volcanoes.

Book a journey like no other by travelling in either direction from Auckland to Wellington or Wellington to Auckland.

Destinations include:

Auckland * Hamilton * Otorohanga (Waitomo Caves) * Taumarunui * Tongariro National Park * Ohakune * Palmerston North * Wellington

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Travel in scenic style on our Northern Explorer Auckland to Wellington train, stopping at Hamilton, Tongariro National Park, Ohakune and Palmerston North

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Picton (top of South Island) to Christchurch 

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Picton (top of South Island) to Christchurch 

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4hrs? - About $219.

Nice stop off for a few day -Kaikoura?

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Join us on one of the most picturesque journeys on New Zealand's railways. Throughout this scenic experience, you will meander along the Pacific coast between Picton and Christchurch.

Our Coastal Pacific train takes you along rugged coastlines, across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breathtaking beauty.

Explore the stunning Kaikōura Coastline, famous for its marine life and whale watching. Voyage through the vineyards of Blenheim, dripping with New Zealand's premium crop. Canter amidst the idyllic Canterbury countryside to the Garden City of Christchurch.

Book a journey like no other by travelling in either direction from Christchurch to Picton or Picton to Christchurch.

Destinations include:

Picton * Blenheim * Kaikoura * Christchurch

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Travel in scenic style on our Coastal Pacific Picton to Christchurch train, stopping at Blenheim and Kaikoura.

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Travel time and distance calculator | 100% Pure New Zealand

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Use the travel time and distance calculator to measure the distance between locations in New Zealand and travel time via driving, walking, or cycling.

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South Island trips and itineraries | 100% Pure New Zealand

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Explore wild national parks and lively urban centres when you travel around the South Island. These recommended itineraries will make sure you take in all the top attractions.

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Family friendly activities in the South Island | 100% Pure New Zealand

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You'll be spoiled for choice in things to do with the family in the spectacular South Island of New Zealand.

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Can search for walks based on skill, length, area etc….

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No matter where you are, or how long you've got, there's a walk for everyone. Take a break in the outdoors and get in touch with nature.

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School holidays Dec 14th to Jan 22nd. We may be able to leave a few days earlier…

1. Fly Brisbane - Auckland

(Auckland 3-7 days)

Dec 11th - Wed (to check with Kate and flights).

2. Aukland to Wellington. Fly or if by train stop off at Tongariro overnight to do a long day walk (maye not?).

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Great Walks of New Zealand | 100% Pure New Zealand

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The 10 Great Walks of New Zealand provide access to some of the country's most incredible natural landscapes, wildlife and cultural heritage. They traverse national parks and culturally significant areas. Find out how to book your Great Walk.

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1 or 2 nights in Wellington - Thurs 19th/Fri 20th - meet up!

Sat 21st Picton to Kaikoura maybe by train (2 hrs?).

Sun 22nd Dec Kaikoura

Mon 23rd Kaikoura to Christchurch train or bus

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Tues 24th - Antarctic Center

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Wed 25th

Thurs 26th

Fri 27th

Sat 28th

Sun 29th

Mon 30th

Tues 31st

Wed 1st

Thurs 2nd

Fri 3rd

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The track is a one way 19.4km hike that takes 7–8 hours (allow for a full day). It starts at Mangatepōpō Road end and ends at Ketetahi Road end. The best way to get to the start of the track is by shuttle.

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The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is an incredible 19km journey through the Tongariro National Park, a UNESCO Dual World Heritage Park recognised for its spiritual and cultural significance as well as its outstanding volcanic features. The trail takes in some of the most dramatic landscapes you will ever see - cold mountain springs, ancient lava flows, steam vents and the spectacular Emerald Lakes.

This challenging trip begins at 1120m above sea level, climbs the Mangatepōpō Valley to the saddle between Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe, through South Crater before climbing again to Red Crater, the highest point on the crossing at 1886m.

You will then descend on a volcanic rock scree track to the vivid Emerald Lakes, known as Ngarotopounamu (greenstone-hued lakes). After passing Blue Lake, also known as Te Wai-whakaata-o-te-Rangihiroa (Rangihiroa's mirror), the track sidles around the northern slope of Tongariro, then descends in a zigzag track past Ketetahi Shelter and down to the road end at 760m.

Getting to the track

The track is a one way 19.4km hike that takes 7-8 hours (allow for a full day). It starts at Mangatepōpō Road end and ends at Ketetahi Road end. The best way to get to the start of the track is by shuttle (see below).

If you must drive, there are parking restrictions in place at both road ends. There is a four-hour parking limit at the Mangatepōpō Road and restricted parking at Ketetahi Road end.

Important tips and advice

Don't underestimate alpine environments, they are subject to severe weather conditions - please check the weather conditions.

Find out everything you need to plan for this track and others in Tongariro National Park on Plan My Walk

A reasonable level of fitness is required

Allow 7-8 hours (a full day) for your hike - be prepared for a long and challenging day out

Wear good footwear and take warm and waterproof clothing.

Take plenty of food and drink

Book a transport shuttle

Book with a guide if you are unsure or need to hire gear

Please use the toilets provided - toilets are located every 1.5 hours along the track

Drones are not permitted to be flown in the Tongariro National Park

Tongariro Alpine Crossing in Winter

In winter, you can expect snow and ice, avalanche risks, and sub-zero temperatures on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

You need special skills and preparation to complete the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in winter. An ice axe and crampons are essential, as is competency in using them.

If you're a well-prepared, competent winter alpine tramper, it can be a fantastic experience. If you aren't experienced and equipped for alpine travel, choose another track. Find out more about hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in winter here.

Sacred mountains

Tongariro National Park is a dual World Heritage Area and the first in the world to receive cultural World Heritage status. The alpine lakes and peaks of the mountains are sacred to the local Māori tribe Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro. Respectfully, they ask that peaks are not climbed and waterways are not to be touched.

Track information

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Tongariro Alpine Crossing - NZ's Best One Day Hike

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The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is rated as one of the best day walks in New Zealand. Take on this epic one-day hike on your next visit to Taupo.

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Mt Cook area - Tasman Glacier (a few sort walks)

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International Antarctic Centre | Christchurch, New Zealand

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Explore Antarctica at the International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch. Real snow, penguins, Hägglund ride, family fun & more! Book tickets online here.

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The Kaikōura i-SITE is currently closed, please contact the operator directly to speak about bookings or availability. Details on all operators can be found here. Also, be sure to check out our special deals available below!

Top Catch Fishing Charters

With Top Catch Kaikōura you can expect a great day on the ocean aboard our purpose built 6.2m Osprey Boat, "First Light". Your fully qualified skipper, Malcolm Halstead, has 35 years' experience fishing in the waters of the South Island of New Zealand. It is Malcolm's goal to make sure you have a memorable fishing experience while visiting Kaikōura. Our trips all leave from the safe port of South Bay Kaikōura.

How to Find Us?

Get Directions

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The Kaikōura i-SITE is currently closed, please contact the operator directly to speak about bookings or availability. Details on all operators can be found here. Also, be sure to check out our special deals available below! Top Catch Fishing Charters With Top Catch Kaikōura you can expect a great day on the ocean aboard our purpose built 6.2m Osprey Boat, "First Light".

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Depending on the season their are usually 6 daily and 43 weekly sailings between Wellington and Picton. 2 ferry operators provide ferries from Wellington to Picton, Bluebridge & Interislander. Wellington Picton Ferry timetables change seasonally, use our Deal Finder to get tickets, pricing, schedules and availability.

Wellington Picton Ferry Times

The earliest Wellington Picton ferry typically departs Wellington at about 02:00. The average sailing time of a ferry from Wellington to Picton is approximately 3h 28m and the fastest sailing time is approximately 3h 15m.

Wellington to Picton Ferry Prices

Ferry prices for a ferry from Wellington to Picton typically range between $120* and $635*. On average the Wellington Picton ferry is $383*. The cheapest Wellington Picton ferry prices start from $55*. The average price for a foot passenger is $184*. The average price for a Wellington Picton car ferry is $429*.

Ferry prices may differ by season and depend on various factors, such as number of passengers, vehicle type and sailing time.

How far is Picton from Wellington?

The distance between Wellington and Picton is approximately 53.9 miles (86.8km), or 46.9 nautical miles.

Is there a car ferry from Wellington to Picton?

Yes, there is a car ferry from Wellington to Picton provided by Bluebridge, Interislander. Use our Deal Finder to get live pricing and tickets for car ferries between Wellington and Picton.

Are foot passengers allowed on the Wellington Picton ferry?

Yes, Wellington Picton ferries allow foot passengers. You can travel as a foot passenger from Wellington to Picton with Bluebridge, Interislander.

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Wellington to Picton ferry tickets, compare times and prices

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Compare Wellington to Picton ferry times, prices and book ferry tickets at directferries.co.uk to save on your trip.