<gallery> <image>https://raw.githubusercontent.com/NotAnother-NZ/na13-discover-different-assets/main/webp/theperfe-cb3.webp</image> </gallery> <gap-large/> <paragraph> Have five days to experience the Central South? No problem. This loop begins and ends in Christchurch, flowing north to hot pools and seal-lined coast, then inland through lakes and mountains, before returning through vast farmland and sleepy towns. Detours are encouraged. </paragraph> <title> Day 1: Christchurch to Kaikōura </title> <paragraph> Start in Christchurch, home to the South Island’s largest airport, this urban hub is New Zealand’s newest city and perfect home base. When you’re ready to hit the road, snacks and coffee in hand, head north through the Waipara wine region, braided rivers and open farmland. </paragraph> <paragraph> About 3 hours later, Kaikōura is a welcomed first stop. Perched between ocean and mountains, there’s nowhere else quite like it. </break>Spend the afternoon getting to know the coast, walking the peninsula, spotting marine wildlife and sampling the local seafood. When darkness falls, be sure to look up. The night sky here is something to behold. </paragraph> <title> Day 2: Kaikōura to Hanmer Springs </title> <paragraph> Another short distance day on the road, when you leave Kaikōura you’ll leave also leave the coast, as you head inland towards the mountains. </paragraph> <paragraph> Around two hours later of rolling hills and snowy peaks, Hanmer Springs is waiting. The small alpine village is wrapped in forest and clear air. Spend the afternoon walking pine trails, settling into your stay and soaking in the quiet. As evening cools, the hot pools take centre stage. Steam rises. Stars come out. It’s warm, unhurried, and full of alpine charm. </paragraph> <title> Day 3: Hanmer Springs to Hokitika </title> <paragraph> Today is a longer day in the car, for a seriously memorable journey. Climbing through Lewis Pass is something to behold. As you wind through the forest, you’re overwhelmed with rich landscapes and rich natives trees. After 4-5 hours, you’ll see the shift as you descend onto the West Coast. Rainforest surrounds you. It will feel more wild. More rugged. </paragraph> <paragraph> Hokitika sits between the Tasman Sea and rich green rainforest. Walk the beach at sunset, enjoy a hearty pub meal, and lean into the Coast’s unpolished charm. </paragraph> <title> Day 4: Hokitika to Lake Tekapo </title> <paragraph> Crossing from the Coast to the Mackenzie, you’ll experience a magnificent transformation of landscape. Leave the rainforest behind and drive toward open plains and quiet stretches. </paragraph> <paragraph> After about 5 hours of jaw-dropping scenes, Lake Tekapo appears and so does an injection of colour. Bright icy blue, the lake and sky, will completely win you over. This is somewhere to slow right down and soak in some of the most stunning lake-meets-alpine views on offer. Did we mention its home to stars unlike anywhere else? Walk the lake edge. Watch dusk settle. And look up. </paragraph> <title> Day 5: Lake Tekapo to Timaru </title> <paragraph> The final leg of your journey is gentle. Leave the high country behind and drift south through farmland and rolling hills toward the coast. About 3 hours later, arrive in Timaru. Relaxed and welcoming, this is a quiet place to finish well. </paragraph> <paragraph> Spend time along the shoreline, chase waterfalls, make friends with an alpaca, find a good meal and enjoy the feeling of having crossed the island in a way that made sense. It’s a soft landing after a week of dramatic contrast. And the best part, the return to Christchurch is only a short 2 hour drive. </paragraph> <gap-large/> <list> <item key="Location">Central South Island Loop</item> <item key="Itinerary">5 Days Recommended</item> <item key="Distance">Loop starts/ends CHC</item> <item key="Hours">Multi-day Itinerary</item> <item key="Price">Variable (Fuel/Accom)</item> </list>