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.

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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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