Glaciers in New Zealand
Maori children
Northland, New Zealand
Queen Charlotte Sound
Routeburn Track
Boating in Taupo
Tongariro, New Zealand
Wellington, New Zealand

Driving Route : Christchurch - Milford Sound - Christchurch

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Day 11 : Blenheim to Kaikoura

Travel time is approximate only, based on an average driving speed under normal road conditions.

  Travel Time Km (Miles)
Blenheim - Kaikoura 2+ hrs 129 81
Totals for Day 2+ hrs 129 81

Blenheim - Kaikoura

129 km (81 miles)
Approximately 1.75 hours
Road Conditions: State Highway

Blenheim is the heart of wine-growing Marlborough. You'll find a pleasing selection of cafes, restaurants, pubs, shops and golf courses. Character accommodation is another Blenheim delight—everything from homestays to boutique hotels.

State Highway 1 takes you through the coastal foothills, and then out into the picturesque Awatere Valley. In the township of Seddon you'll find authentic New Zealand crafts.

The Lake Grassmere saltworks is an interesting stop—the ponds turn coral pink in late summer. After the small town of Ward, the road turns toward the awesome beauty of the Pacific Coast. Just north of the Ure River is a road that leads to the walking trails of the Sawcut Gorge.

Kaikoura is a base for wildlife experiences of all kinds—it's also a great place to eat crayfish. A whale watch tour can take you to see Minke, Humpback and Southern Right whales mixing it with dolphins and orcas.

You can also walk to see fur seal colonies and spy on big seabirds such as mollymawks, albatross and petrels.

View more Christchurch driving routes.

Directory Information

Blenheim, Marlborough:
Accommodation, Attractions and Activities, Tours, Transport, Visitor Information

Kaikoura, Canterbury:
Accommodation, Attractions and Activities, Tours, Transport, Visitor Information

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New Zealand Coach Tours

New Zealand Coach Tours

The largest range of escorted & small group tours

New Zealand road trips - Let's go on an adventure

New Zealand Road Trips

Let's go on an adventure

New Zealand self-drive tours

NZ Self-Drive Tours

Explore NZ on a custom self-drive package holiday

Bluebridge Ferry

Bluebridge Cook Strait ferries

Cross Cook Strait and enjoy Kiwi hospitality.

World Nomads Travel Insurance

Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance for independent travellers.