VACATION DETAILS

Nelson province, in the Northwest corner of South Island, has the highest sunshine hours in New Zealand. Nelson City is within 37 miles of three major National Parks, Abel Tasman, Kahurangi, and Nelson Lakes, with the Marlborough Sounds being the Maritime equivalent with its many bays and coves. Young and old from all corners of the world visit Nelson to enjoy the pleasures of New Zealand's clean green image.

The Marlborough Sounds are an awe inspiring blend between the land, sea, nature and light. This series of sea-drowned valleys borders the north eastern edge of New Zealand's South Island and the northern edge of the province of Marlborough.

Abel Tasman is renowned for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and its world-famous coastal track. It also has a mild climate and is a good place to visit at any time of the year. The most noticeable features of this park are the golden sandy beaches, the fascinating rocky outcrops, and the rich, unmodified estuaries. The landscape has been modified, perhaps more than in the other national parks. The top few things to do include walking the tracks through the park or sea kayaking and sailing.

Christchurch was founded in 1850 by members of the Church of England, who wanted a little bit of heaven on earth. They succeeded, and today the city takes great pride in its spacious layout and distinctive English-style buildings in elegant grey stone. The River Avon winds through Christchurch, along parks and gardens that cover one-third of the city.