Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway

The 11-kilometre Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway brings you into the midst of coastal wildlife, historic pā, whaling sites and sublime views. Keep an eye out for tōhora (southern right whale), rimurapa (bull kelp), kekeno (seals) and kōura (crayfish) – and treat yourself to a feast at one of the nearby cafes and restaurants.

Huriawa

Carry on down the east coast long enough and you’ll find yourself at Huriawa in the village of Karitane. A strategic vantage for early Māori settlers and rich in natural resources, the Huriawa peninsula can be explored independently via the 2.4km loop walk, or book a guided tour with Karitāne Māori Tours - knowledgeable guides share the vibrant history and stories as you explore by foot or on waka, and contribute to native tree planting. 

Otago Central Rail Trail

Aotearoa New Zealand's original Great Ride, this popular 152km cycle journey follows the Otago Central railway line that once connected isolated communities in Central Otago with Ōtepoti Dunedin. 

The riding is spectacular and the breaks are pretty nice too: sip a beer in a country pub and enjoy café baking in one of the many charming towns you ride through. Can't do the whole trail? No problem! You can get dropped off and picked up at a few different points along the way.

Ōkārito 

A place of harvest, conservation and goldrush, remote Ōkārito in South Westland is worth the journey. Take your pick of beautiful walks, including up to the Ōkārito Trig, or hop on a kayak to experience the rare birdlife on the lagoon, the country’s largest unmodified wetland. 

Denniston Mine

Once a leading coal mining town, Denniston sits high on the edge of a steep incline railway once described as the 8th wonder of the world. The wealth of mining relics, world-class interpretation and spectacular scenery and walking tracks make a visit to Denniston a must.