New Zealand is one of the prominent holiday destinations in the world for the tourists, who are usually interested in exploring the Great Outdoors along-with their families and friends. The country has got something for everyone: fantastic walking trails, hiking spots, superb climatic conditions, convenient accommodation options, numerous beach-side and adventure activities, picturesque landscape and exotic wildlife locations. Rent a car and keep your family entertained with a splendid blend of playful activities and sightseeing. Try to brace yourself at the South Island, which is replete with awe-inspiring attractions and myriad of activities to do.
Expert guides always recommend the tourists to explore this amazing land by road. The country features well maintained roads and hence, road trips can be conveniently commenced. Being home to some of the world’s most beautiful scenic landscapes, one cannot afford to miss this scenic drive. A 3 hour drive is also enough to come across the white sand beaches, rain-forest, glaciers, snow-capped mountains and sandy beaches. Other modes of conveyance may prove to be expensive, but a road trip, by all standards can easily fall under your budget line. The views, which you would enjoy during your journey are definitely going to last a lifetime. The nation features some of the globe’s best drives for the backpackers. If you are an avid nature lover then you should go on a road trip from the jagged Westport to the ‘Big Smoke’ of Westland, Greymouth. You should take the SH6 route along the surf pounded shoreline, imposing splendid Tasman Sea views, so fine that Lonely Planet has tagged this highway as one of the 10 best road trips in the planet. After fetching a suitable vehicle from car rental agency, now set-off for this expedition. Fill up your car in Westport, as you won’t find any gas station until Runanga, which is 92 km away. The next ATM is available only at Greymouth. So stuff yourself with gas and cash. The major attractions enroute are the geologically captivating Pancake Rocks, located at Punakaiki. To break the journey, you can relax at the Beaconstone Lodge, which is located at the Birds Ferry Road. With an organic garden, solar power and energy efficient amenities, this Auberge make a bold eco-friendly statement. To know more about the region’s old mining history, swing into Mitchell’s Gully Gold Mine, which falls en-route.
The next city, which would come your way, is Charleston. This thespian city boomed during the gold rush in 1860. The city features three breweries, numerous hotels and a 18th century pub; the Charleston European Tavern. This town is the focal point for water-laden trips, executed by Norwest Adventures.On reaching Greymouth, you can continue further on SH6 to Franz Josef Glacier, which is also a must-visit attraction.
