Is whale watching included in the tour?

Whale watching in Kaikoura is an optional extra and depends on the schedule and weather conditions.

What kind of accommodation is provided?

Accommodations are comfortable lodges or hotels booked to complement the itinerary and local settings.

Are meals included during the trip?

Yes, all meals including breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and beverages are part of the package.

Is this tour suitable for children?

The tour welcomes all ages, with a minimum of two travelers required to book per person pricing.

What is the group size for the tour?

Group sizes are kept manageable for personalized guiding and better access to scenic spots.

How physically demanding is the tour?

The tour requires moderate fitness with some short walks; no technical skills or strenuous hiking are necessary.

Top of the South with Koru Scenic Tours: A 5-Day New Zealand Journey

Koru Scenic Tours invites adventurers to traverse the northern reaches of New Zealand’s South Island on their signature 5-day itinerary, Top of the South. This journey threads together some of the region’s most evocative landscapes—from the dramatic Kaikoura Coast to the rolling vineyards near Christchurch—providing a deep dive into an often overlooked stretch of the South Island.

Departing Christchurch, travelers head north along the rugged coastline where sheer cliffs meet an azure ocean, home to resident marine mammals, including whales, with an optional whale watching stop in Kaikoura. The first day’s route navigates through Picton, gateway to the Marlborough Sounds, where shimmering waterways carve into hills cloaked with native bush.

Day two carries the group west across sweeping valleys and golden bays to Takaka, situated near the edge of the wild Golden Bay. Here, guests may visit Farewell Spit—a windblown sand peninsula famed for birdlife and unique coastal ecology—before settling in for the evening.

The adventure continues south to St Arnaud, a jewel on the fringe of Nelson Lakes National Park where crystal-clear Lake Rotoiti provides a peaceful backdrop. On day four, the route dips into montane terrain, crossing Lewis Pass and passing the thunderous Maruia Falls en route to the rejuvenating thermal pools of Hanmer Springs.

The final day of this circuit returns to Christchurch through the Waipara wine region, offering vineyard stops and gourmet lunches to celebrate the journey’s end. Throughout, Koru Scenic Tours delivers expert guiding, comfortable transport, inclusive meals, and opportunities for photography, all woven into a seamless, immersive outdoor experience. This itinerary perfectly suits travelers eager to witness the dynamic landscapes and rich natural heritage that define the Top of the South.

Ideal for those with moderate fitness and a passion for scenic drives combined with short walks, this tour stands out by combining nature, culture, and gourmet pleasures in a single well-crafted expedition.