Travel with Amateur Traveler Podcast

AT#962 - Travel to the Northern South Island of New Zealand

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Hear about travel to the top half of New Zealand's South Island as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jonty Crane from Jonty Travels about his adopted country.

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel ⁠here.

Why should you visit the top half of New Zealand's South Island?

Jonty says that this area has "spectacular scenery, natural hot springs, beautiful beaches, world-class vineyards, and whale watching".

Jonty suggests a two-week road trip (with additional optional side trips, particularly for multi-day hikes) starting in Christchurch and looping north through North Canterbury, Nelson/Tasman, Marlborough, and Kaikōura before returning to Christchurch. The trip combines cities, hot springs, alpine passes, national parks, short walks and multi-day hikes, vineyards, wildlife, and heritage.


Suggested Itinerary


Days 1–2: Christchurch

  • Explore the city centre, largely rebuilt post the devastating 2010/11 earthquakes: Hagley Park, Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Avon River punting, and the Christchurch Earthquake Memorial.
  • Visit cultural sites: Canterbury Museum, Christ Church Cathedral ruins, Christchurch Transitional Cathedral, aka the cardboard cathedral, Christchurch Art Centre, Teece Museum of Classical Antiquities, Rutherford’s Den, and Christchurch Art Gallery.

    • ...

    https://amateurtraveler.com/northern-south-island-of-new-zealand/

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    Travel with Amateur Traveler PodcastBy Chris Christensen