We are traveling with friends in March to Nz and will have done most of the south before they leave us in Chch. we have 4 days on our own and are trying to figure a way to see as much as we can in that short time. I thought of driving to Picton, taking the ferry to Wellington. Is there a flight to Rotora? or should we be spending more time in the Nelson area. Thanks K

Personally, I'd spend time in the Nelson, Mapua, Motueka, Takaka area, but of course that will depend on what you've already done prior to ending up in CH.

Banks Peninsula is also an option as is Kaikoura and Hamner Springs.

We just came back from five weeks in NZ. Rotorua was a disappointment for us. I would recommend staying on the South Island. We liked Wanaka quite a bit.

From where will you be leaving NZ? If from AKL, then flying to Rotorua on the way to AKL is a good idea. We liked the geological findings there. If you are leaving from CHC, then stay on the SI.

Also, what are your interests?

Hi
on the way to Picton do KAIKURA one of earth's best place for observing marine mammals & seabirds. Watch or swim with (dusky) dolphins, watch Albatropsses (few species!!) etc'
even Whales...

Rotorua cannot b a disappointment!
have u been to WAIMANGU valley? which is less touristic but is simply AMAZING
The volcanic phenomena r simply overwhelming

Abel Tazman - combine kayaking + water taxi (sometimes speedboats) + hiking
+ resting on remote granitic-sand beaches HEAVEN

aby

Thanks for all your input. The first part of our journey , we will do Queenstown, the sounds and then move up the west coast and to Hanmer Springs, Kaikoura and then to Chch.Hope to do Akaroa to see penguins, rent a car and move north to the ferry to Wellington where we have friends we will visit briefly. Will look up yor kind suggestions and ask for further help. K