South Island itinerary - pls critique
 

We are embarking on a 2-week trip to NZ in 10 days' time, our first trip with our 15-month old toddler. So unlike our previous adventures, this trip will have to be well paced out! Below is a tentative itinerary:-

Fly into Christchurch
3 nights Christchurch
Pick up car, drive to Akaroa
1 night Akaroa
1 night Mt Cook
3 nights Queenstown
Visit Arrowtown, Glenorchy etc
2 nights Wanaka
1 night Hokitika
4 nights Marlborough (Nelson or Blenheim?)
1 night Kaikoura
Fly out of Christchurch

Questions:-
Could someone recommend accommodation in Hokitaka, Marlborough and Kaikoura. Will pay up to NZD200 per night for 1 or 2 bedroom apartment, kitchen facilities required, laundry would be a bonus.

Should we split the 4 nights in Marlborough between Nelson and Blenheim, say 2 nights at each or stay put for all 4 nights at one place?

Any comments on the above would be much appreciated!

S

We stayed at the Best Western Shining Star Chalets in Hokitika and we were very pleased for the price. The chalet had a nice balcony overlooking the ocean. You can view our review at http://tinyurl.com/pbp4e

I can recommend the Anchor Inn Motel in Kaikoura. I don't think we had laundry in the room, but we had very nice kitchen facilities.

Sounds like a great well paced trip. Sorry I can't help with your questions but I hope you have a great time!!

Missing the fiords?!? Qtwn is so plastic, that I'd be tempted to go beyond the obligatory daytrip to milford, but transfer a nite or 2 to little Te Anau to also see the other bigger fiord.

viking, I haven't included Milford Sound in the itinerary because I have done that drive a couple of times and consider it quite long and tiring. But am considering doing scenic flights over there to take a cruise, all subject to cost and suitability for toddler.

S

I stayed at Dylans Country cottages in the past with my family...which is on a lavender farm and in the country. Beautiful cottages, beautiful local, and self-contained. I highly recommend it.
http://www.lavenderfarm.co.nz/accommodation.php

ooops...I meant to include that Dylans Cottages is located in the country just outside of Kaikoura.....