Wild Collection
South Island Eco Wanderer
This journey starts in the Abel Tasman and then follows the West Coast to the Pancake Rocks before crossing Arthur's Pass and onwards via the inland scenic route to Oamaru and Dunedin, gateway to the Otago Peninsula.
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Day 1 - Abel Tasman, Nelson Region
- Stay
- The Resurgence
The Resurgence is an hour's drive from Nelson airport and 3 from the Inter Islander ferry. An eco-loge on 50 acres there are 5km of bush tracks to explore rich in native bird-life. Book dinner for your arrival night.
Day 2 - Abel Tasman, Nelson Region
- Stay
- The Resurgence
The Abel Tasman is New Zealand's smallest national park with pristine beaches and turquoise seas. A kayak-hike-cruise trip is a great way to explore the Tonga Island Marine reserve and the various bays and inlets accessible only from the water.
Day 3 - south of Punakaiki, West Coast
The drive through Motueka Valley and Buller Gorge are lovely but nothing prepares you for your first glimpse of the wild West Coast as you descend.
After lunch, explore Punakaiki Rocks and the West Coast's lush rainforest before you arrive at tonight's accommodation.
Day 4 - south of Punakaiki, West Coast
Spend the day exploring walking trails, cycle tracks and the local history.
Day 5 - Arthur's Pass, Canterbury
The Wilderness Lodge at Arthur's Pass is a working farm surrounded by dramatic mountain. Today's drive is another scenic trip. On arrival, take the kayak on the lake or take the farm dog for a walk.
Day 6 - Arthur's Pass, Canterbury
Daily guided activities are included in the package at the Wilderness Lodges or you can book private tours.
Day 7 - Lake Pukaki, Twizel
- Stay
- Lakestone Lodge
A 4:30 drive brings you from Arthur's Pass to the splendid Lake Pukaki looking out the Mt Cook. After dinner at the Lodge tonight, enjoy star gazing from a hammock in the grounds.
Day 8 - Lake Pukaki, Twizel
- Stay
- Lakestone Lodge
There are some fantastic hikes near Mt Cook, or cycling on the Alps to Ocean cycle trail. Scenic flights from here also give you glacier views.
Day 9 - Dunedin, Otago
The 3-hour drive to Fletcher Lodge will take you past the interesting Moeraki boulders and close to Fleurs fablulous seafood restaurant for lunch.
Day 10 - Dunedin, Otago
The Otago Peninsula is a must for nature enthusiasts with a range of guided tours available.
Dunedin Railway Station and the Octagon give a feel for Dunedin's history.
You are walking distance to central Dunedin and restaurants.
Day 11 - Journey's End
Leave this journey in Dunedin which has connections throughout New Zealand and to Australia. You can combine this trip with Wild Havens of the Far South and continue through the Catlins to Stewart Island and Fiordland.
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- Download PDF for full Itinerary.

At a glance
Duration: 11 days, 10 nights
Connection points:
Nelson airport
Dunedin airport
Activity level: moderate
Best season: November-April
Driving times
Motueka - Greymouth 4 hours 15 minutes
Greymouth- Arthur's Pass: 1 hour 30 minutes
Arthur's Pass - Oamaru: 5 hours
Oamaru -Dunedin: 2 hours
Indicative Price from $4,830
Price is for accommodation only and excludes meals, ground or air transport unless stated. Contact one of our Travel Agents or use My Holiday to contact the operators and book direct.
Eco Wanderer
Nature and beauty
South Island