Christchurch Alpine Pacific Triangle

A weekend loop heading north from Christchurch for whale watching, inland to a hot spring town, and back.

Christchurch's officially recommended Alpine Pacific Triangle route takes you along the East Coast to Kaikōura, inland to Hanmer Springs for a soak, and back via the Waipara wine region. It features short distances, quick turnarounds, and a complete mix of seafood, marine wildlife, and hot springs. Avoiding the deep Southern Alps, it is perfect for families with limited time or as an add-on to a longer itinerary.

Whale watching is available year-round. Hanmer Forest turns golden in autumn, and caution is advised for icy inland roads in winter.

Day by day

Day 1 · Drive along the Coast to Kaikōura

Kaikōura（Kaikōura Esplanade、Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway、Point Kean Seal Colony）

Pick up your car at the airport and drive along State Highway 1 for about 190 km (approx. 2.5 to 3 hours) to Kaikōura.

Stay: Kaikōura Town Centre

Day 2 · Whale and Dolphin Watching at Sea

Kaikōura（Kaikoura Whale Watch、Kaikōura Seafood BBQ、Fyffe House）

The marina is in town. The boat trip takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, with the rest of the day spent walking along the waterfront.

Whale watching may be canceled in poor sea conditions; keep your afternoon free as a backup.

Stay: Kaikōura Town Centre

Day 3 · Inland Road to Hanmer Springs

Hanmer Springs（Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa）

Drive via the Inland Road and Route 70 for about 130 km (approx. 2 hours) to Hanmer Springs.

Stay: Village Centre

Day 4 · Forest Walk and Return to Christchurch

Hanmer Springs（Conical Hill Walk、Hanmer Forest Park） → Waipara Valley

Walk the forest trails in the morning, then drive back to Christchurch via Waipara in the afternoon (approx. 135 km, 2 hours).