2026 June
Trip planning
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202603312323 Shopping Voting
Christchurch 2026 — family shopping vote
Singapore to Christchurch · 14–25 Jun 2026 · vote on which shops to visit
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🇳🇿 NZ South Island
14–25 June 2026
✈ SQ297 / SQ298 · 🚗 Self-drive · 👨👩👧👦 Family of 4
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs → Blenheim → Christchurch
Flights
SQ297
SIN → CHC
Sun 14 Jun 2026, 19:50 → Mon 15 Jun 2026, 09:30
Non-stop · Airbus A350-900
SQ298
CHC → SIN
Thu 25 Jun 2026, 10:50 → Thu 25 Jun 2026, 17:40
Non-stop · Airbus A350-900
Car Rental
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (or similar)
Ezi Car Rental Christchurch Airport
https://www.ezicarrental.co.nz/locations/christchurch-airport/
Pickup: Mon 15 Jun 2026, 11:30 AM
Drop-off: Thu 25 Jun 2026, 7:00 AM
Booking Ref: 714300435
Accommodation
| Location | Property | Dates | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christchurch | Riccarton Mall Motel 2 rooms Cancellation: Non-refundable | 15–18 Jun 2026 | Confirmed |
| Hanmer Springs | Alpine Garden Motel 2-bedroom apartment Cancellation: Free cancel before 14 Jun 2026 | 18–20 Jun 2026 | Confirmed |
| Blenheim | Centre Court Motel Booking ID: 1994958887 2 rooms Cancellation: Free cancel before 17 Jun 2026 | 20–22 Jun 2026 | Confirmed |
| Christchurch | Worcester Terrace One — Christchurch Holiday Homes Booking ID: 1995384631 | 22–25 Jun 2026 | Confirmed |
Day 0 · Sun 14 Jun · Departure
- Flight SQ297 departs Singapore at 19:50.
Day 1 · Mon 15 Jun · Arrival Christchurch
Arrive after 9:40 hours flight. Collect Rav4 and check in motel.
- 09:30 arrive Christchurch.
- 09:30–10:15 immigration and baggage.
- 10:15–11:15 buffer for coffee, rest, SIM setup.
- 11:30 car pickup at Ezi Car Rental.
- 11:30–12:00 drive to Riccarton.
- 12:00–12:30 try early check-in at Riccarton Mall Motel, or leave luggage.
- 12:30–5:30 light shopping at Westfield Riccarton.
- Dinner at Wendy’s Hornby. Optional Kmart. Early rest.
Day 1 · Mon 15 Jun · Arrival Christchurch
- 09:30 arrive Christchurch.
- 09:30–10:15 immigration and baggage.
- 10:15–11:15 buffer for coffee, rest, SIM setup.
- 11:30 car pickup at Ezi Car Rental.
- 11:30–12:00 drive to Riccarton.
- 12:00–12:30 try early check-in at Riccarton Mall Motel, or leave luggage.
- 12:30–5:30 light shopping at Westfield Riccarton.
- Dinner at Wendy’s Hornby. Optional Kmart. Early rest.
Day 2 · Tue 16 Jun · Christchurch Shopping Core
- 07:30–08:30 breakfast at Addington Coffee Co-op.
- 08:30–09:00 drive to Hornby.
- 10:00–14:30 main shopping block at Dress Smart Hornby.
- Lunch inside outlet.
- 15:00–15:40 quick stop at Lululemon Christchurch.
🅰️ Option A — Rest
- 15:45–17:30 return to motel and recharge.
🅱️ Option B — Ballantynes Upgrade
- 15:45–17:15 extended shopping at Ballantynes.
- 18:00–19:15 dinner at Riverside Market.
Day 3 · Wed 17 Jun · Christchurch Cycling Day
- 07:30–08:15 breakfast at Grizzly Baked Goods.
- 09:00–09:20 bike setup at Action Bicycle Club.
- 09:20–12:15 ride around Hagley Park / Avon River / Botanic Gardens.
- 12:15–13:15 lunch at Ilex Café.
- 13:15–14:45 shorter return loop.
- 15:00–16:00 groceries at New World for pre-cooked dinner and Day 4 breakfast items.
- Evening in-room dinner from New World takeaway and early rest.
Day 4 · Thu 18 Jun · Christchurch to Hanmer Springs
- 08:00–08:30 in-room breakfast.
- 08:30–09:30 Christchurch to Amberley.
- 09:30–10:00 coffee at Little Vintage Espresso.
- 11:30–13:30 winery lunch at Black Estate.
- 13:30–14:45 Waipara to Hanmer.
- 14:45–15:15 check-in at Alpine Garden Motel.
- 15:30–17:45 thermal pools at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools.
- 19:00 dinner at MK Restaurant.
🅰️ Option A — Easy Stargazing
- 20:45–21:15 simple sky check near motel.
🅱️ Option B — Better Sky
- 20:45–21:30 short outing to Dog Stream for darker skies.
Day 5 · Fri 19 Jun · Hanmer Hike + ATV
- Morning in-room breakfast.
- 08:45–11:30 hike Dog Stream Waterfall Track.
- 11:40–12:20 lunch at The Log Cabin.
- 14:00–17:00 ATV with Hanmer Springs Attractions.
- 18:30 dinner at Monteith’s Brewery Bar.
Day 6 · Sat 20 Jun · Hanmer to Blenheim
- 08:30–09:30 breakfast at Powerhouse Café.
- 09:30–11:45 drive Hanmer to Kaikōura.
- 11:45–12:00 stop at Ohau Point Seal Colony.
- 13:20–13:40 pit stop at The Store @ Seddon.
- 14:15–15:45 winery at Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen.
- Late afternoon check-in at Centre Court Motel.
- 18:30 dinner at Raupo Café.
Day 7 · Sun 21 Jun · Blenheim Market + Wineries
- 09:00–10:30 Marlborough Farmers’ Market.
- 11:30–13:00 Cloudy Bay, must pre-book.
- 13:15–14:45 Allan Scott.
- 15:00–17:30 rest at motel.
🅰️ Option A — Scotch Wine Bar
- 18:30–20:00 light, refined, wine-focused finish.
🅱️ Option B — Dodson Street Beer Garden
- 18:30–20:00 casual, hearty dinner with bigger portions.
Day 8 · Mon 22 Jun · Blenheim to Christchurch
- 08:30 leave Blenheim.
- 10:30–12:00 Kaikōura stop.
🅰️ Option A — Cods & Crayfish
- 10:45–11:45 iconic Kaikōura seafood lunch.
🅱️ Option B — Coopers Catch
- 10:45–11:45 safe, fast, reliable lunch.
- 12:00–14:30 drive to Christchurch.
- 14:30–15:30 check-in/reset at Worcester Terrace One — Christchurch Holiday Homes.
- 16:00–17:00 karting at Supa Karts Indoor Raceway. Monday hours 12–6 PM. Arrive early, closed shoes, best to pre-book.
- Simple dinner and rest.
Day 9 · Tue 23 Jun · Christchurch Two Modes Day
- 08:30–09:30 common start at Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters.
🅰️ Option A — Tannery Mode
- 09:45–12:30 The Tannery: indoor artisan browsing, yarn/fabric, Alchemy Equipment.
- 12:00–13:00 lunch inside The Tannery.
- 13:15–13:30 cake pickup at Divine Cakes Blenheim Road.
- After pickup return to motel and store cake in fridge.
🅱️ Option B — Classic Picnic Mode
- 09:45–10:30 Knit World Christchurch.
- 10:45–11:00 cake pickup at Divine Cakes Blenheim Road.
- 11:15–12:00 picnic prep at New World.
- 12:15–13:45 picnic at Hagley Park.
- Parking: Rolleston Ave or Armagh Street.
- 14:15 / 14:30–16:45 common afternoon at Ballantynes, optional Decjuba / Glassons / Moochi.
- 17:00–18:00 reset.
- 18:00–19:30 simple dinner.
Day 10 · Wed 24 Jun · Jake’s 18th Birthday
- Morning sleep in and easy breakfast.
🅰️ Option A — Zipline Birthday Day
- 11:45–12:45 lunch at Smash Palace.
- 12:45–14:15 return, digest, change into activity clothes.
- 15:00–17:30 Christchurch Adventure Park Zipline.
🅱️ Option B — Cycle to Beach Day
- Route guide: Action Bicycle Club Sumner Beach Picnic Ride.
- 09:45–10:15 bike setup at Action Bicycle Club.
- 10:15–11:45 ride to Sumner.
- 11:45–12:30 lunch at Joe’s Garage Sumner.
- 12:30–13:15 beach relax and photos.
- 13:15–14:30 return ride.
- Late afternoon reset / shower / relax.
- 18:40–19:00 cake and family photos.
- 19:30 birthday dinner at 5th Street.
- Night: pack for departure.
Departure · Thu 25 Jun · Christchurch to Singapore
- 06:15 leave accommodation.
- 07:00 return car to Ezi Car Rental.
- 10:50 SQ298 departs Christchurch.
10 day itinerary v20260371855
review notes
- confirmed Christchurch 1st leg accomodation
- confirmed Hanmer accomodation
- removed Hogarth Chocolate, not a factory visit
- chatgpt hallucinated luge in Christchurch! Removed
ai notes
itinerary crafted with chatgpt, manually verified all stops because chatgpt hallucinates. Used Claude to format, but hit 90% Claude limit in free mode. Asked Chatgpt to follow Claude html format
v202603152202
🇳🇿
NZ South Island
14 – 25 June 2026 · Family Winter Road Trip
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs → Blenheim → Christchurch
🛫 Flight Details
SQ 297
Outbound
SIN
19:50
Singapore
Sun 14 Jun
9h 40m · Non-stop
CHC
09:30
Christchurch
Mon 15 Jun
SQ 298
Return
CHC
10:50
Christchurch
Thu 25 Jun
10h 50m · Non-stop
SIN
17:40
Singapore
Thu 25 Jun
🚗 Car Rental
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (or similar)
Ezi Car Rental · Christchurch Airport · Booking Ref 714300435
Rental Window
15–25 JUN
📍 Pick-upMon 15 Jun · 11:30 AM
📍 Drop-offThu 25 Jun · 7:00 AM
📌 LocationChristchurch Airport
🔗 Rental linkezicarrental.co.nz
👤 DriverJack Ling
⏰ Arrival buffer2 hours before pickup
✈ Departure buffer6:15 AM leave motel
🧭 NotesRefuel before airport return
⚙️ Automatic
🔋 Hybrid
💺 5 seats
🧳 Fits family road-trip luggage
🏨 Accommodation
🏙
ChristchurchFirst stay
♨️
Hanmer SpringsMid-trip stay
Alpine Garden Motel (https://alpinegardenmotel.co.nz)
Check-in18 Jun 2026
Check-out20 Jun 2026
🌙 2 nights
🍷
BlenheimMarlborough chapter
Centre Court Motel (https://www.centrecourtmotel.co.nz)
Check-in20 Jun 2026
Check-out22 Jun 2026
Booking ID1994958887
Rooms2
🌙 2 nights
CancellationFree cancel before 17 Jun 2026
🏙
ChristchurchFinal stay
To Book
Check-in22 Jun 2026
Check-out25 Jun 2026
🌙 3 nights
| Location | Property | Check-in | Check-out | Nights | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏙 Christchurch | Riccarton Mall Motel | 15 Jun | 18 Jun | 3 | ✓ Confirmed |
| ♨️ Hanmer Springs | Alpine Garden Motel | 18 Jun | 20 Jun | 2 | ✓ Confirmed |
| 🍷 Blenheim | Centre Court Motel (https://www.centrecourtmotel.co.nz) Booking ID: 1994958887 · 2 rooms · Free cancel before 17 Jun 2026 | 20 Jun | 22 Jun | 2 | ✓ Confirmed |
| 🏙 Christchurch | To Book | 22 Jun | 25 Jun | 3 | 📋 To Book |
📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary
Dep
✈
Departure from Singapore
Sunday, 14 June
SQ297
- EveningHead to Changi Airport Terminal 3 for SQ297.
- 7:50 PM✈ Flight departs Singapore for Christchurch.
Day
1
Arrival in Christchurch · Light Landing Day
Monday, 15 June
Christchurch
🌡 6–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 9:30 – 10:15 AMArrive Christchurch, clear immigration and collect bags.
- 10:15 – 11:15 AMAirport buffer for coffee, restroom, SIM setup or simply breathing after the overnight flight.
- 11:30 AM🚗 Pick up rental car from Ezi Car Rental (https://www.ezicarrental.co.nz/locations/christchurch-airport/).
- 11:30 AM – 12:00 PMDrive ~10 km to Riccarton. Early check-in if available; otherwise leave bags and head out.
- 12:30 – 5:30 PM🛍 Easy shopping block at Westfield Riccarton (https://www.westfield.co.nz/riccarton). Keep this light and practical on arrival day.
- DinnerSimple casual dinner at Wendy’s Hornby (https://www.wendys.co.nz/stores/wendys-hornby).
- EveningOptional Kmart stop if needed, then early rest.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
2
Christchurch · Core Shopping Day
Tuesday, 16 June
Christchurch
🌡 5–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:30 AM☕ Breakfast at Addington Coffee Co-op (https://www.addingtoncoffee.org.nz).
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMDrive to outlet area.
- 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM🛍 Main shopping block at Dress Smart Hornby (https://christchurch.dress-smart.co.nz/stores/). Best day for practical clothing and outlet brands.
- LunchFlexible lunch inside the outlet.
- 3:00 – 3:40 PMQuick targeted stop at Lululemon Christchurch (https://www.lululemon.co.nz).
🅰️ Option A · Rest Mode
- 3:45 – 5:30 PM return to motel.
- Best if everyone is already shopped out.
- Keeps energy high for cycling day tomorrow.
🅱️ Option B · Upgrade Shopping
- 3:45 – 5:15 PM continue to Ballantynes (https://www.ballantynes.co.nz).
- Best for mum’s nicer office wear browsing.
- Use only if energy levels are still good.
- 6:00 – 7:15 PM🍽 Dinner at Riverside Market (https://riverside.nz).
- EveningLight evening only. Optional Kmart if something is still missing.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
3
Christchurch · Cycling Day with Easy Motel Dinner
Wednesday, 17 June
Christchurch
🌡 4–11°C🌅 ~8:06 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:15 AM🥐 Breakfast at Grizzly Baked Goods (https://grizzlybakedgoods.com/cashel-street).
- 8:15 – 8:45 AMDrive / move to bike rental.
- 9:00 – 9:20 AM🚴 Bike setup at Action Bicycle Club (https://www.actionbicycleclub.com/bike-hire/).
- 9:20 AM – 12:15 PMRide the Hagley Park loop and Avon-side stretches. Flat, scenic and low stress.
- 12:15 – 1:15 PMLunch at Ilex Café inside the Botanic Gardens area.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PMGentle return ride.
- ~3:00 PMReturn bikes.
- 3:00 – 4:00 PM🛒 Grocery stop at New World (https://www.newworld.co.nz). Buy pre-cooked meals for tonight, plus milk, bread, ham and cheese for tomorrow’s in-room breakfast.
- 4:30 PM onwardReturn to motel, shower, warm up and settle in.
- Dinner🍱 Eat New World pre-cooked meals in the motel room. Best recovery move before the Hanmer drive.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
4
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs
Thursday, 18 June
ChristchurchHanmer
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~115 km⏱ ~2 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:00 – 8:30 AMIn-room breakfast using Day 3 groceries.
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMDrive Christchurch to Amberley.
- 9:30 – 10:00 AM☕ Coffee stop at Little Vintage Espresso (https://www.littlevintage.co.nz/).
- 10:00 – 10:15 AMDrive to Waipara.
- 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM🍷 Winery lunch at Black Estate (https://blackestate.co.nz/). This is the anchor stop of the drive north.
- 1:30 – 2:45 PMDrive Waipara to Hanmer Springs.
- 2:45 – 3:15 PMCheck in at Alpine Garden Motel (https://alpinegardenmotel.co.nz).
- 3:30 – 5:45 PM♨️ Relax at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools (https://hanmersprings.co.nz).
- 7:00 PM🍽 Dinner at MK Restaurant.
🌌 Stargazing Option A
- Stay near the motel if energy is low.
- Easy, short, no extra driving.
🌌 Stargazing Option B
- Drive to Dog Stream area for darker sky.
- Best only if the sky is clear and everyone still has fuel in the tank.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
5
Hanmer Springs · Hike + ATV
Friday, 19 June
Hanmer Springs
🌡 2–10°C🌅 ~8:07 AM🌇 ~4:56 PM
- 8:00 – 8:25 AMSimple breakfast in Hanmer.
- 8:45 – 11:30 AM🥾 Hike the Dog Stream Waterfall Track (https://planmywalk.nz/tracks/dog-stream-waterfall-track).
- 11:40 AM – 12:20 PMLunch at The Log Cabin.
- 2:00 – 5:00 PM🏎️ ATV session with Hanmer Springs Attractions (https://hanmerspringsattractions.nz).
- 6:30 PM🍽 Casual hearty dinner at Monteith’s Brewery Bar.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
6
Hanmer → Kaikōura Coast → Blenheim
Saturday, 20 June
HanmerKaikōuraBlenheim
🌡 3–12°C🚗 ~210 km⏱ ~4 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMBreakfast at Powerhouse Café.
- 9:30 – 11:45 AMDrive Hanmer to Kaikōura.
- 11:45 AM – 12:00 PM🦭 Quick stop at Ohau Point Seal Colony.
- 12:20 – 1:20 PMDrive Kaikōura to Seddon.
- 1:20 – 1:40 PM🥪 Quick bite / coffee at The Store @ Seddon.
- 1:40 – 2:05 PMFinal drive into Blenheim.
- 2:15 – 3:45 PM🍷 Winery visit at Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen (https://saintclair.co.nz/pages/vineyard-kitchen).
- 6:30 PM🍽 Dinner at Raupo Café.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
7
Blenheim · Market + Wineries
Sunday, 21 June
Blenheim
🌡 3–12°C🌅 ~8:09 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:00 – 10:30 AM🧺 Browse the Marlborough Farmers’ Market (https://www.marlboroughfarmersmarket.org.nz).
- 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM🍷 Winery 1: Cloudy Bay tasting. This should be pre-booked in winter.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PM🍷 Winery 2: Allan Scott for a more relaxed second stop.
- 3:00 – 5:30 PMReturn and rest. Important after two wine stops.
🅰️ Dinner Option · Scotch Wine Bar
- Best if you want to continue the wine-day mood.
- Lighter, more refined evening feel.
🅱️ Dinner Option · Dodson Street Beer Garden
- Best if everyone wants something heartier and more casual.
- Good choice after a full day of tasting.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
8
Blenheim → Christchurch
Monday, 22 June
BlenheimKaikōuraChristchurch
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~310 km⏱ ~4 hr 45 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMLight breakfast.
- 9:00 – 11:00 AMDrive south to Kaikōura.
🅰️ Kaikōura Lunch · Cods & Crayfish
- Best experience lunch.
- Use this if the family wants the more memorable seafood stop.
🅱️ Kaikōura Lunch · Coopers Catch
- Safer, simpler and reliable.
- Good if you want to keep the stop fast and easy.
- 12:30 – 3:00 PMDrive Kaikōura to Christchurch.
- AfternoonCheck in, rest, or do a short shopping hit only if energy remains.
- 6:00 – 7:00 PM🏎️ Indoor fun at Supa Karts (https://www.supakarts.co.nz).
- DinnerSimple dinner afterwards.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
9
Christchurch · Flexible Day with 2 Modes
Tuesday, 23 June
ChristchurchWeather-flex day
🌡 3–11°C🌅 ~8:10 AM🌇 ~4:58 PM
- 8:30 – 9:30 AM☕ Common start at Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters (https://unknownchapter.co.nz).
- After breakfastChoose the day’s vibe: indoor artisan browsing or classic yarn + picnic sequence.
🅰️ The Tannery Mode · Indoor + Artisan
- 9:45 AM – 12:30 PM browse The Tannery (https://www.tannery.co.nz).
- Great for yarn / fabric feel, unique shops, and the Alchemy Equipment stop.
- 12:00 – 1:00 PM easy lunch inside The Tannery.
- 1:15 – 1:30 PM pick up cake at Divine Cakes, Blenheim Road (https://divine.co.nz/pages/store-locator).
- Return to motel to store cake in fridge.
- 2:30 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes, with optional Decjuba / Glassons / Moochi.
🅱️ Classic Mode · Yarn + Picnic
- 9:45 – 10:30 AM yarn stop at Knit World Christchurch (https://knitting.co.nz/pages/knit-world-christchurch).
- 10:45 – 11:00 AM cake pickup at Divine Cakes (https://divine.co.nz/pages/store-locator).
- Return to motel and store cake before picnic prep.
- 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM shop picnic supplies at New World (https://www.newworld.co.nz).
- 12:15 – 1:45 PM picnic at Hagley Park. Parking: Rolleston Ave (https://maps.google.com/?q=Rolleston+Avenue+Christchurch) or Armagh Street (https://maps.google.com/?q=Armagh+Street+Christchurch).
- 2:15 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes afterwards.
- 5:00 – 6:00 PMCommon reset back at the motel.
- 6:00 – 7:30 PMCommon easy dinner.
- EveningRest. Good night to keep things calm before birthday day.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
10
Jake’s 18th Birthday · Two Complete Paths
Wednesday, 24 June
ChristchurchBirthday
🌡 2–11°C🌅 ~8:11 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:30 – 10:30 AMCommon relaxed start. Sleep in, easy breakfast, no rushing.
- Decision pointChoose one complete birthday experience only. Option A is the thrill day. Option B is the scenic beach ride day without zipline.
🅰️ Option A · Zipline Birthday Day
- 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM lunch at Smash Palace (https://thesmashpalace.co.nz).
- 12:45 – 2:15 PM return / digest / change into warm outdoor gear.
- 2:15 – 2:45 PM drive to Christchurch Adventure Park Zipline (https://zipchristchurch.com/the-long-ride/).
- 3:00 – 5:30 PM zipline session.
- 5:30 – 6:15 PM return and reset. This is exactly why dinner was moved later.
- 6:15 – 6:45 PM picnic-style cake moment and family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
🅱️ Option B · Cycle to Beach Day
- 9:45 – 10:15 AM bike setup at Action Bicycle Club (https://www.actionbicycleclub.com/bike-hire/).
- Route guide: Action Bicycle Club Sumner Beach Picnic Ride (https://www.actionbicycleclub.com/abc-routes-sumner-beach-picnic-ride/).
- 10:15 – 11:30/11:45 AM ride the Puari ki Rapanui / Coastal Pathway route to Sumner.
- 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM lunch at Joe’s Garage Sumner (https://www.joes.co.nz/sumner/menu/before-5pm).
- 12:30 – 1:15 PM beach relax and photos.
- 1:15 – 2:30 PM cycle back.
- 2:30 – 5:30 PM long reset block. No zipline on this version; combining both would feel rushed.
- 6:00 – 6:40 PM cake + family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
- 7:30 PM🍽 Birthday dinner at 5th Street. Later timing gives healthy buffer for either option.
- After dinnerPack for departure and keep the night gentle.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Christchurch
Dep
✈
Departure from Christchurch
Thursday, 25 June
SQ298
- 6:15 AMLeave motel.
- 6:30 AMArrive Christchurch Airport area.
- 7:00 AMReturn rental car to Ezi Car Rental.
- 10:50 AM✈ SQ298 departs Christchurch for Singapore.
v202603251846
🇳🇿
NZ South Island
14 – 25 June 2026 · Family Winter Road Trip
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs → Blenheim → Christchurch
🛫 Flight Details
SQ 297
Outbound
SIN
19:50
Singapore
Sun 14 Jun
9h 40m · Non-stop
CHC
09:30
Christchurch
Mon 15 Jun
SQ 298
Return
CHC
10:50
Christchurch
Thu 25 Jun
10h 50m · Non-stop
SIN
17:40
Singapore
Thu 25 Jun
🚗 Car Rental
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (or similar)
Ezi Car Rental · Christchurch Airport · Booking Ref 714300435
Rental Window
15–25 JUN
📍 Pick-upMon 15 Jun · 11:30 AM
📍 Drop-offThu 25 Jun · 7:00 AM
📌 LocationChristchurch Airport
🔗 Rental linkezicarrental.co.nz
👤 DriverJack Ling
⏰ Arrival buffer2 hours before pickup
✈ Departure buffer6:15 AM leave motel
🧭 NotesRefuel before airport return
⚙️ Automatic
🔋 Hybrid
💺 5 seats
🧳 Fits family road-trip luggage
🏨 Accommodation
| Location | Property | Check-in | Check-out | Nights | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏙 Christchurch | Riccarton Mall Motel | 15 Jun | 18 Jun | 3 | ✓ Confirmed |
| ♨️ Hanmer Springs | Alpine Garden Motel | 18 Jun | 20 Jun | 2 | ✓ Confirmed |
| 🍷 Blenheim | Centre Court Motel, Free cancel before 17 June 2026 | 20 Jun | 22 Jun | 2 | ✓ Confirmed | >
| 🏙 Christchurch | To Book | 22 Jun | 25 Jun | 3 | 📋 To Book |
🔗 Quick Reference Links
Christchurch Core
Outdoor & Drive Days
Food & Birthday
📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary
Dep
✈
Departure from Singapore
Sunday, 14 June
SQ297
- EveningHead to Changi Airport Terminal 3 for SQ297.
- 7:50 PM✈ Flight departs Singapore for Christchurch.
Day
1
Arrival in Christchurch · Light Landing Day
Monday, 15 June
Christchurch
🌡 6–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 9:30 – 10:15 AMArrive Christchurch, clear immigration and collect bags.
- 10:15 – 11:15 AMAirport buffer for coffee, restroom, SIM setup or simply breathing after the overnight flight.
- 11:30 AM🚗 Pick up rental car from Ezi Car Rental.
- 11:30 AM – 12:00 PMDrive ~10 km to Riccarton. Early check-in if available; otherwise leave bags and head out.
- 12:30 – 5:30 PM🛍 Easy shopping block at Westfield Riccarton. Keep this light and practical on arrival day.
- DinnerSimple casual dinner at Wendy’s Hornby.
- EveningOptional Kmart stop if needed, then early rest.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
2
Christchurch · Core Shopping Day
Tuesday, 16 June
Christchurch
🌡 5–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:30 AM☕ Breakfast at Addington Coffee Co-op.
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMDrive to outlet area.
- 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM🛍 Main shopping block at Dress Smart Hornby. Best day for practical clothing and outlet brands.
- LunchFlexible lunch inside the outlet.
- 3:00 – 3:40 PMQuick targeted stop at Lululemon Christchurch.
🅰️ Option A · Rest Mode
- 3:45 – 5:30 PM return to motel.
- Best if everyone is already shopped out.
- Keeps energy high for cycling day tomorrow.
🅱️ Option B · Upgrade Shopping
- 3:45 – 5:15 PM continue to Ballantynes.
- Best for mum’s nicer office wear browsing.
- Use only if energy levels are still good.
- 6:00 – 7:15 PM🍽 Dinner at Riverside Market.
- EveningLight evening only. Optional Kmart if something is still missing.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
3
Christchurch · Cycling Day with Easy Motel Dinner
Wednesday, 17 June
Christchurch
🌡 4–11°C🌅 ~8:06 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:15 AM🥐 Breakfast at Grizzly Baked Goods.
- 8:15 – 8:45 AMDrive / move to bike rental.
- 9:00 – 9:20 AM🚴 Bike setup at Action Bicycle Club.
- 9:20 AM – 12:15 PMRide the Hagley Park loop and Avon-side stretches. Flat, scenic and low stress.
- 12:15 – 1:15 PMLunch at Ilex Café inside the Botanic Gardens area.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PMGentle return ride.
- ~3:00 PMReturn bikes.
- 3:00 – 4:00 PM🛒 Grocery stop at New World. Buy pre-cooked meals for tonight, plus milk, bread, ham and cheese for tomorrow’s in-room breakfast.
- 4:30 PM onwardReturn to motel, shower, warm up and settle in.
- Dinner🍱 Eat New World pre-cooked meals in the motel room. Best recovery move before the Hanmer drive.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
4
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs
Thursday, 18 June
ChristchurchHanmer
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~115 km⏱ ~2 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:00 – 8:30 AMIn-room breakfast using Day 3 groceries.
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMDrive Christchurch to Amberley.
- 9:30 – 10:00 AM☕ Coffee stop at Little Vintage Espresso.
- 10:00 – 10:15 AMDrive to Waipara.
- 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM🍷 Winery lunch at Black Estate. This is the anchor stop of the drive north.
- 1:30 – 2:45 PMDrive Waipara to Hanmer Springs.
- 2:45 – 3:15 PMCheck in at Alpine Garden Motel.
- 3:30 – 5:45 PM♨️ Relax at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools.
- 7:00 PM🍽 Dinner at MK Restaurant.
🌌 Stargazing Option A
- Stay near the motel if energy is low.
- Easy, short, no extra driving.
🌌 Stargazing Option B
- Drive to Dog Stream area for darker sky.
- Best only if the sky is clear and everyone still has fuel in the tank.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
5
Hanmer Springs · Hike + ATV
Friday, 19 June
Hanmer Springs
🌡 2–10°C🌅 ~8:07 AM🌇 ~4:56 PM
- 8:00 – 8:25 AMSimple breakfast in Hanmer.
- 8:45 – 11:30 AM🥾 Hike the Dog Stream Waterfall Track.
- 11:40 AM – 12:20 PMLunch at The Log Cabin.
- 2:00 – 5:00 PM🏎️ ATV session with Hanmer Springs Attractions.
- 6:30 PM🍽 Casual hearty dinner at Monteith’s Brewery Bar.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
6
Hanmer → Kaikōura Coast → Blenheim
Saturday, 20 June
HanmerKaikōuraBlenheim
🌡 3–12°C🚗 ~210 km⏱ ~4 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMBreakfast at Powerhouse Café.
- 9:30 – 11:45 AMDrive Hanmer to Kaikōura.
- 11:45 AM – 12:00 PM🦭 Quick stop at Ohau Point Seal Colony.
- 12:20 – 1:20 PMDrive Kaikōura to Seddon.
- 1:20 – 1:40 PM🥪 Quick bite / coffee at The Store @ Seddon.
- 1:40 – 2:05 PMFinal drive into Blenheim.
- 2:15 – 3:45 PM🍷 Winery visit at Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen.
- 6:30 PM🍽 Dinner at Raupo Café.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
7
Blenheim · Market + Wineries
Sunday, 21 June
Blenheim
🌡 3–12°C🌅 ~8:09 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:00 – 10:30 AM🧺 Browse the Marlborough Farmers’ Market.
- 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM🍷 Winery 1: Cloudy Bay tasting. This should be pre-booked in winter.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PM🍷 Winery 2: Allan Scott for a more relaxed second stop.
- 3:00 – 5:30 PMReturn and rest. Important after two wine stops.
🅰️ Dinner Option · Scotch Wine Bar
- Best if you want to continue the wine-day mood.
- Lighter, more refined evening feel.
🅱️ Dinner Option · Dodson Street Beer Garden
- Best if everyone wants something heartier and more casual.
- Good choice after a full day of tasting.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
8
Blenheim → Christchurch
Monday, 22 June
BlenheimKaikōuraChristchurch
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~310 km⏱ ~4 hr 45 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMLight breakfast.
- 9:00 – 11:00 AMDrive south to Kaikōura.
🅰️ Kaikōura Lunch · Cods & Crayfish
- Best experience lunch.
- Use this if the family wants the more memorable seafood stop.
🅱️ Kaikōura Lunch · Coopers Catch
- Safer, simpler and reliable.
- Good if you want to keep the stop fast and easy.
- 12:30 – 3:00 PMDrive Kaikōura to Christchurch.
- AfternoonCheck in, rest, or do a short shopping hit only if energy remains.
- 6:00 – 7:00 PM🏎️ Indoor fun at Supa Karts.
- DinnerSimple dinner afterwards.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
9
Christchurch · Flexible Day with 2 Modes
Tuesday, 23 June
ChristchurchWeather-flex day
🌡 3–11°C🌅 ~8:10 AM🌇 ~4:58 PM
- 8:30 – 9:30 AM☕ Common start at Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters.
- After breakfastChoose the day’s vibe: indoor artisan browsing or classic yarn + picnic sequence.
🅰️ The Tannery Mode · Indoor + Artisan
- 9:45 AM – 12:30 PM browse The Tannery.
- Great for yarn / fabric feel, unique shops, and the Alchemy Equipment stop.
- 12:00 – 1:00 PM easy lunch inside The Tannery.
- 1:15 – 1:30 PM pick up cake at Divine Cakes, Blenheim Road.
- Return to motel to store cake in fridge.
- 2:30 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes, with optional Decjuba / Glassons / Moochi.
🅱️ Classic Mode · Yarn + Picnic
- 9:45 – 10:30 AM yarn stop at Knit World Christchurch.
- 10:45 – 11:00 AM cake pickup at Divine Cakes.
- Return to motel and store cake before picnic prep.
- 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM shop picnic supplies at New World.
- 12:15 – 1:45 PM picnic at Hagley Park. Parking: Rolleston Ave or Armagh Street.
- 2:15 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes afterwards.
- 5:00 – 6:00 PMCommon reset back at the motel.
- 6:00 – 7:30 PMCommon easy dinner.
- EveningRest. Good night to keep things calm before birthday day.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
10
Jake’s 18th Birthday · Two Complete Paths
Wednesday, 24 June
ChristchurchBirthday
🌡 2–11°C🌅 ~8:11 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:30 – 10:30 AMCommon relaxed start. Sleep in, easy breakfast, no rushing.
- Decision pointChoose one complete birthday experience only. Option A is the thrill day. Option B is the scenic beach ride day without zipline.
🅰️ Option A · Picnic + Zipline Day
- 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM lunch at Smash Palace.
- 12:45 – 2:15 PM return / digest / change into warm outdoor gear.
- 2:15 – 2:45 PM drive to Christchurch Adventure Park Zipline.
- 3:00 – 5:30 PM zipline session.
- 5:30 – 6:15 PM return and reset. This is exactly why dinner was moved later.
- 6:15 – 6:45 PM picnic-style cake moment and family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
🅱️ Option B · Cycle to Beach Day
- 9:45 – 10:15 AM bike setup at Action Bicycle Club.
- Route guide: Action Bicycle Club Sumner Beach Picnic Ride.
- 10:15 – 11:30/11:45 AM ride the Puari ki Rapanui / Coastal Pathway route to Sumner.
- 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM lunch at Joe’s Garage Sumner.
- 12:30 – 1:15 PM beach relax and photos.
- 1:15 – 2:30 PM cycle back.
- 2:30 – 5:30 PM long reset block. No zipline on this version; combining both would feel rushed.
- 6:00 – 6:40 PM cake + family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
- 7:30 PM🍽 Birthday dinner at 5th Street. Later timing gives healthy buffer for either option.
- After dinnerPack for departure and keep the night gentle.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Christchurch
Dep
✈
Departure from Christchurch
Thursday, 25 June
SQ298
- 6:15 AMLeave motel.
- 6:30 AMArrive Christchurch Airport area.
- 7:00 AMReturn rental car to Ezi Car Rental.
- 10:50 AM✈ SQ298 departs Christchurch for Singapore.
v20260371855
🇳🇿
NZ South Island
14 – 25 June 2026 · Family Getaway
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs → Blenheim → Christchurch
🛫 Flight Details
SQ 297
Economy (W)
SIN
19:50
Singapore
Sun 14 Jun
9h 40m · Non-stop
CHC
09:30
Christchurch
Mon 15 Jun
SQ 298
Economy (H)
CHC
10:50
Christchurch
Thu 25 Jun
10h 50m · Non-stop
SIN
17:40
Singapore
Thu 25 Jun
🚗 Car Rental
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid · Intermediate SUV
Ezi Car Rental Christchurch Airport · Booking #714300435
Status
LOCKED
📍 Pick-upMon 15 Jun · 11:30
📍 Drop-offThu 25 Jun · 07:00
📌 LocationCHC Airport
👤 Main DriverJack Ling
👥 Extra Driver✓ Included free
🕒 Arrival buffer2 hours at airport
🛬 Flight after returnSQ298 at 10:50
🚪 Doors4
💺 Seats5
🔋 Fuel typeHybrid
❄️ Air Conditioning
⚙️ Automatic
🧳 3 Large Bags
🆘 24/7 Roadside Assist
🏨 Accommodation
🏙
ChristchurchFirst Stay
Check-in15 Jun 2026
Check-out18 Jun 2026
Rooms2 rooms
CancellationNon-refundable
🌙 3 nights
♨️
Hanmer Springs
Check-in18 Jun 2026
Check-out20 Jun 2026
Type2-bedroom apartment
Free cancelBefore 14 Jun 2026
🌙 2 nights
🍷
BlenheimMarlborough
Check-in20 Jun 2026
Check-out22 Jun 2026
Booking ID1994958887
Rooms2 rooms
Free cancelBefore 17 Jun 2026
🌙 2 nights
🏙
ChristchurchFinal Stay
To Book
Check-in22 Jun 2026
Check-out25 Jun 2026
🌙 3 nights
| Location | Property | Check-in | Check-out | Nights | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Christchurch | Riccarton Mall Motel 2 rooms · Non-refundable |
15 Jun 2026 | 18 Jun 2026 | 3 | ✓ Confirmed |
| Hanmer Springs | Alpine Garden Motel 2-bedroom apartment · Free cancel before 14 Jun |
18 Jun 2026 | 20 Jun 2026 | 2 | ✓ Confirmed |
| Blenheim | Centre Court Motel Booking ID: 1994958887 · 2 rooms · Free cancel before 17 Jun |
20 Jun 2026 | 22 Jun 2026 | 2 | ✓ Confirmed |
| Christchurch | Final stay to book | 22 Jun 2026 | 25 Jun 2026 | 3 | Pending |
📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day
1
Christchurch — Arrival
Monday, 15 June
Christchurch
🌡 6–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 9:30 AM✈️ Arrive Christchurch
- 9:30 – 10:15 AMImmigration + baggage collection
- 10:15 – 11:15 AMBuffer — coffee / SIM setup / rest
- 11:30 AM🚗 Car pickup — Ezi Car Rental
- 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM🚗 Drive to Riccarton — ~10 km · ~20 min
- 12:00 – 12:30 PMTry early check-in at Riccarton Mall Motel or leave luggage
- 12:30 – 5:30 PM🛍 Light shopping — Westfield Riccarton
- EveningSimple dinner — Wendy’s Hornby · optional Kmart · early rest
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel · ✓ Confirmed
Day
2
Christchurch — Shopping Core Day
Tuesday, 16 June
Christchurch
🌡 5–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:30 AM☕ Breakfast — Addington Coffee Co-op
- 8:30 – 9:00 AM🚗 Drive to Hornby
- 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM🛍 Main shopping block — Dress Smart Hornby
- LunchInside outlet — flexible timing
- 3:00 – 3:40 PMQuick stop — Lululemon Christchurch
- 3:45 PM onwards🔀 Afternoon decision
-
🅰️ Option A — Rest
- 3:45 – 5:30 PMReturn to motel and recharge
🅱️ Option B — Ballantynes Upgrade- 3:45 – 5:15 PMExtended shopping — Ballantynes
- 6:00 – 7:15 PMDinner — Riverside Market
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel · ✓ Confirmed
Day
3
Christchurch — Cycling Day
Wednesday, 17 June
Christchurch
🌡 4–11°C🌅 ~8:06 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:15 AMBreakfast — Grizzly Baked Goods
- 8:15 – 8:45 AMTravel to bike rental
- 9:00 – 9:20 AMBike setup — Action Bicycle Club
- 9:20 AM – 12:15 PM🚴 Ride segment 1 — Hagley Park / Avon River / Botanic Gardens
- 12:15 – 1:15 PMLunch — Ilex Café
- 1:15 – 2:45 PM🚴 Ride segment 2 — shorter return loop
- 3:00 – 4:00 PM🛒 Grocery stop — New World for pre-cooked meals + Day 4 breakfast items
- Evening🍱 In-room dinner from New World takeaway · shower · early rest
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel · ✓ Confirmed
Day
4
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs
Thursday, 18 June
CHCHanmer
🌡 3–11°C🌅 ~8:06 AM🌇 ~4:56 PM
- 8:00 – 8:30 AMIn-room breakfast from Day 3 groceries
- 8:30 – 9:30 AM🚗 Christchurch → Amberley — ~55 km · ~1 hr
- 9:30 – 10:00 AM☕ Coffee stop — Little Vintage Espresso
- 10:00 – 10:20 AM🚗 Amberley → Waipara
- 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM🍷 Winery lunch — Black Estate
- 1:30 – 2:45 PM🚗 Waipara → Hanmer — ~60 km · ~1 hr 15 min
- 2:45 – 3:15 PMCheck-in — Alpine Garden Motel
- 3:30 – 5:45 PM♨️ Thermal pools — Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools
- 7:00 PMDinner — MK Restaurant · confirmed
- 8:45 PM onwards🔀 Stargazing choice
-
🅰️ Option A — Easy
- 8:45 – 9:15 PMStay near motel for a simple sky check
🅱️ Option B — Better Sky- 8:45 – 9:30 PMShort outing to Dog Stream Track for darker skies
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel · ✓ Confirmed
Day
5
Hanmer — Hike + ATV
Friday, 19 June
Hanmer Springs
🌡 2–10°C🌅 ~8:07 AM🌇 ~4:56 PM
- MorningIn-room breakfast
- 8:45 – 11:30 AM🥾 Main hike — Dog Stream Waterfall Track
- 11:40 AM – 12:20 PMLunch — The Log Cabin
- 2:00 – 5:00 PM🏎️ ATV — Hanmer Springs Attractions
- 6:30 PMDinner — Monteith’s Brewery Bar
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel · ✓ Confirmed
Day
6
Hanmer → Kaikōura → Blenheim
Saturday, 20 June
HanmerKaikōuraBlenheim
🌡 3–12°C🌅 ~8:07 AM🌇 ~4:56 PM
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMBreakfast — Powerhouse Café
- 9:30 – 11:45 AM🚗 Hanmer → Kaikōura — ~130 km · ~2 hr 15–30 min
- 11:45 AM – 12:00 PM🦭 Quick stop — Ohau Point Seal Colony
- 12:20 – 1:20 PM🚗 Kaikōura → Seddon
- 1:20 – 1:40 PM🥪 Pit stop — The Store @ Seddon
- 1:40 – 2:05 PM🚗 Seddon → Blenheim
- 2:15 – 3:45 PM🍷 Winery — Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen
- Late afternoonCheck-in — Centre Court Motel
- 6:30 PMDinner — Raupo Café · confirmed
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Centre Court Motel · ✓ Confirmed
Day
7
Blenheim — Market + Wineries
Sunday, 21 June
Blenheim
🌡 3–12°C🌅 ~8:09 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:00 – 10:30 AM🥇 Morning market — Marlborough Farmers’ Market
- 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM🍷 Winery 1 — Cloudy Bay · must pre-book
- 1:15 – 2:45 PM🍷 Winery 2 — Allan Scott
- 3:00 – 5:30 PMRest at motel
- Evening🔀 Dinner choice
-
🅰️ Option A — Scotch Wine Bar
- 6:30 – 8:00 PMLight, refined, wine-focused finish
🅱️ Option B — Dodson Street Beer Garden- 6:30 – 8:00 PMCasual, hearty dinner with bigger portions
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Centre Court Motel · ✓ Confirmed
Day
8
Blenheim → Christchurch
Monday, 22 June
BlenheimKaikōuraChristchurch
🌡 3–11°C🌅 ~8:10 AM🌇 ~4:58 PM
- 8:30 AMLeave Blenheim
- 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM🐋 Kaikōura stop + lunch
-
🅰️ Option A — Cods & Crayfish
- 10:45 – 11:45 AMBest experience for iconic Kaikōura seafood
🅱️ Option B — Coopers Catch- 10:45 – 11:45 AMSafe, fast, reliable lunch option
- 12:00 – 2:30 PM🚗 Kaikōura → Christchurch
- 2:30 – 3:30 PMCheck-in / reset at final Christchurch stay
- 4:00 – 5:00 PM🏎️ Karting — Supa Karts Indoor Raceway · Monday hours 12–6 PM · arrive early · closed shoes · best to pre-book
- EveningSimple dinner + rest
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Christchurch final stay · 📋 To Book
Day
9
Christchurch — Two Modes Day
Tuesday, 23 June
Christchurch
🌡 3–11°C🌅 ~8:10 AM🌇 ~4:58 PM
- 8:30 – 9:30 AM☕ Common start — Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters
- Morning🔀 Decide: Tannery Mode or Classic Picnic Mode
-
🅰️ Option A — Tannery Mode
- 9:45 AM – 12:30 PM🧶 The Tannery · indoor artisan browsing · yarn/fabric · Alchemy Equipment
- 12:00 – 1:00 PMLunch inside The Tannery
- 1:15 – 1:30 PM🎂 Cake pickup — Divine Cakes Blenheim Road
- After pickupReturn to motel and store cake in fridge
🅱️ Option B — Classic Picnic Mode- 9:45 – 10:30 AM🧶 Knit World Christchurch
- 10:45 – 11:00 AM🎂 Cake pickup — Divine Cakes Blenheim Road
- 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM🛒 New World picnic prep
- 12:15 – 1:45 PM🧺 Picnic at Hagley Park
- ParkingRolleston Ave or Armagh Street
- 2:15 / 2:30 – 4:45 PMCommon afternoon — Ballantynes · optional Decjuba / Glassons / Moochi
- 5:00 – 6:00 PMReset at accommodation
- 6:00 – 7:30 PMSimple dinner
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Christchurch final stay · 📋 To Book
Day
10
Christchurch — Jake’s 18th Birthday
Wednesday, 24 June
Christchurch
🌡 2–11°C🌅 ~8:11 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- MorningSleep in / easy breakfast
- Decision🅰️ Zipline Birthday Day or 🅱️ Cycle to Beach Day
-
🅰️ Option A — Zipline Birthday Day
- 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM🍔 Lunch — Smash Palace
- 12:45 – 2:15 PMReturn / digest / change into activity clothes
- 3:00 – 5:30 PM🪂 Activity — Christchurch Adventure Park Zipline
🅱️ Option B — Cycle to Beach Day- Route🚴 Action Bicycle Club Sumner Beach Picnic Ride
- 9:45 – 10:15 AMBike setup — Action Bicycle Club
- 10:15 – 11:45 AMRide to Sumner via coastal pathway
- 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM🍔 Lunch — Joe’s Garage Sumner
- 12:30 – 1:15 PMBeach relax / photos
- 1:15 – 2:30 PMReturn ride
- Late afternoonReset / shower / relax
- 6:40 – 7:00 PM🎂 Cake + family photos
- 7:30 PM🎉 Birthday dinner — 5th Street · reservation updated to 7:30 PM
- NightPack for departure
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Christchurch final stay · 📋 To Book
Dep
✈
Departure — Christchurch to Singapore
Thursday, 25 June
CHC → SIN
- 6:15 AMLeave motel
- 7:00 AM🚗 Return car — Ezi Car Rental
- 10:50 AM✈️ SQ298 departs Christchurch · arrives Singapore 17:40
10 day itinerary v202603251730
review notes
- confirmed Christchurch 1st leg accomodation
- confirmed Hanmer accomodation
- removed Hogarth Chocolate, not a factory visit
- chatgpt hallucinated luge in Christchurch! Removed
ai notes
itinerary crafted with chatgpt, manually verified all stops because chatgpt hallucinates. Used Claude to format, but hit 90% Claude limit in free mode. Asked Chatgpt to follow Claude html format
v202603152202
🇳🇿
NZ South Island
14 – 25 June 2026 · Family Winter Road Trip
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs → Blenheim → Christchurch
🛫 Flight Details
SQ 297
Outbound
SIN
19:50
Singapore
Sun 14 Jun
9h 40m · Non-stop
CHC
09:30
Christchurch
Mon 15 Jun
SQ 298
Return
CHC
10:50
Christchurch
Thu 25 Jun
10h 50m · Non-stop
SIN
17:40
Singapore
Thu 25 Jun
🚗 Car Rental
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (or similar)
Ezi Car Rental · Christchurch Airport · Booking Ref 714300435
Rental Window
15–25 JUN
📍 Pick-upMon 15 Jun · 11:30 AM
📍 Drop-offThu 25 Jun · 7:00 AM
📌 LocationChristchurch Airport
🔗 Rental linkezicarrental.co.nz
👤 DriverJack Ling
⏰ Arrival buffer2 hours before pickup
✈ Departure buffer6:15 AM leave motel
🧭 NotesRefuel before airport return
⚙️ Automatic
🔋 Hybrid
💺 5 seats
🧳 Fits family road-trip luggage
🏨 Accommodation
🏙
ChristchurchFirst stay
♨️
Hanmer SpringsMid-trip stay
Alpine Garden Motel (https://alpinegardenmotel.co.nz)
Check-in18 Jun 2026
Check-out20 Jun 2026
🌙 2 nights
🍷
BlenheimMarlborough chapter
Centre Court Motel (https://www.centrecourtmotel.co.nz)
Check-in20 Jun 2026
Check-out22 Jun 2026
Booking ID1994958887
Rooms2
🌙 2 nights
CancellationFree cancel before 17 Jun 2026
🏙
ChristchurchFinal stay
To Book
Check-in22 Jun 2026
Check-out25 Jun 2026
🌙 3 nights
| Location | Property | Check-in | Check-out | Nights | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏙 Christchurch | Riccarton Mall Motel | 15 Jun | 18 Jun | 3 | ✓ Confirmed |
| ♨️ Hanmer Springs | Alpine Garden Motel | 18 Jun | 20 Jun | 2 | ✓ Confirmed |
| 🍷 Blenheim | Centre Court Motel (https://www.centrecourtmotel.co.nz) Booking ID: 1994958887 · 2 rooms · Free cancel before 17 Jun 2026 | 20 Jun | 22 Jun | 2 | ✓ Confirmed |
| 🏙 Christchurch | To Book | 22 Jun | 25 Jun | 3 | 📋 To Book |
📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary
Dep
✈
Departure from Singapore
Sunday, 14 June
SQ297
- EveningHead to Changi Airport Terminal 3 for SQ297.
- 7:50 PM✈ Flight departs Singapore for Christchurch.
Day
1
Arrival in Christchurch · Light Landing Day
Monday, 15 June
Christchurch
🌡 6–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 9:30 – 10:15 AMArrive Christchurch, clear immigration and collect bags.
- 10:15 – 11:15 AMAirport buffer for coffee, restroom, SIM setup or simply breathing after the overnight flight.
- 11:30 AM🚗 Pick up rental car from Ezi Car Rental (https://www.ezicarrental.co.nz/locations/christchurch-airport/).
- 11:30 AM – 12:00 PMDrive ~10 km to Riccarton. Early check-in if available; otherwise leave bags and head out.
- 12:30 – 5:30 PM🛍 Easy shopping block at Westfield Riccarton (https://www.westfield.co.nz/riccarton). Keep this light and practical on arrival day.
- DinnerSimple casual dinner at Wendy’s Hornby (https://www.wendys.co.nz/stores/wendys-hornby).
- EveningOptional Kmart stop if needed, then early rest.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
2
Christchurch · Core Shopping Day
Tuesday, 16 June
Christchurch
🌡 5–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:30 AM☕ Breakfast at Addington Coffee Co-op (https://www.addingtoncoffee.org.nz).
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMDrive to outlet area.
- 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM🛍 Main shopping block at Dress Smart Hornby (https://christchurch.dress-smart.co.nz/stores/). Best day for practical clothing and outlet brands.
- LunchFlexible lunch inside the outlet.
- 3:00 – 3:40 PMQuick targeted stop at Lululemon Christchurch (https://www.lululemon.co.nz).
🅰️ Option A · Rest Mode
- 3:45 – 5:30 PM return to motel.
- Best if everyone is already shopped out.
- Keeps energy high for cycling day tomorrow.
🅱️ Option B · Upgrade Shopping
- 3:45 – 5:15 PM continue to Ballantynes (https://www.ballantynes.co.nz).
- Best for mum’s nicer office wear browsing.
- Use only if energy levels are still good.
- 6:00 – 7:15 PM🍽 Dinner at Riverside Market (https://riverside.nz).
- EveningLight evening only. Optional Kmart if something is still missing.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
3
Christchurch · Cycling Day with Easy Motel Dinner
Wednesday, 17 June
Christchurch
🌡 4–11°C🌅 ~8:06 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:15 AM🥐 Breakfast at Grizzly Baked Goods (https://grizzlybakedgoods.com/cashel-street).
- 8:15 – 8:45 AMDrive / move to bike rental.
- 9:00 – 9:20 AM🚴 Bike setup at Action Bicycle Club (https://www.actionbicycleclub.com/bike-hire/).
- 9:20 AM – 12:15 PMRide the Hagley Park loop and Avon-side stretches. Flat, scenic and low stress.
- 12:15 – 1:15 PMLunch at Ilex Café inside the Botanic Gardens area.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PMGentle return ride.
- ~3:00 PMReturn bikes.
- 3:00 – 4:00 PM🛒 Grocery stop at New World (https://www.newworld.co.nz). Buy pre-cooked meals for tonight, plus milk, bread, ham and cheese for tomorrow’s in-room breakfast.
- 4:30 PM onwardReturn to motel, shower, warm up and settle in.
- Dinner🍱 Eat New World pre-cooked meals in the motel room. Best recovery move before the Hanmer drive.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
4
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs
Thursday, 18 June
ChristchurchHanmer
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~115 km⏱ ~2 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:00 – 8:30 AMIn-room breakfast using Day 3 groceries.
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMDrive Christchurch to Amberley.
- 9:30 – 10:00 AM☕ Coffee stop at Little Vintage Espresso (https://www.littlevintage.co.nz/).
- 10:00 – 10:15 AMDrive to Waipara.
- 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM🍷 Winery lunch at Black Estate (https://blackestate.co.nz/). This is the anchor stop of the drive north.
- 1:30 – 2:45 PMDrive Waipara to Hanmer Springs.
- 2:45 – 3:15 PMCheck in at Alpine Garden Motel (https://alpinegardenmotel.co.nz).
- 3:30 – 5:45 PM♨️ Relax at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools (https://hanmersprings.co.nz).
- 7:00 PM🍽 Dinner at MK Restaurant.
🌌 Stargazing Option A
- Stay near the motel if energy is low.
- Easy, short, no extra driving.
🌌 Stargazing Option B
- Drive to Dog Stream area for darker sky.
- Best only if the sky is clear and everyone still has fuel in the tank.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
5
Hanmer Springs · Hike + ATV
Friday, 19 June
Hanmer Springs
🌡 2–10°C🌅 ~8:07 AM🌇 ~4:56 PM
- 8:00 – 8:25 AMSimple breakfast in Hanmer.
- 8:45 – 11:30 AM🥾 Hike the Dog Stream Waterfall Track (https://planmywalk.nz/tracks/dog-stream-waterfall-track).
- 11:40 AM – 12:20 PMLunch at The Log Cabin.
- 2:00 – 5:00 PM🏎️ ATV session with Hanmer Springs Attractions (https://hanmerspringsattractions.nz).
- 6:30 PM🍽 Casual hearty dinner at Monteith’s Brewery Bar.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
6
Hanmer → Kaikōura Coast → Blenheim
Saturday, 20 June
HanmerKaikōuraBlenheim
🌡 3–12°C🚗 ~210 km⏱ ~4 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMBreakfast at Powerhouse Café.
- 9:30 – 11:45 AMDrive Hanmer to Kaikōura.
- 11:45 AM – 12:00 PM🦭 Quick stop at Ohau Point Seal Colony.
- 12:20 – 1:20 PMDrive Kaikōura to Seddon.
- 1:20 – 1:40 PM🥪 Quick bite / coffee at The Store @ Seddon.
- 1:40 – 2:05 PMFinal drive into Blenheim.
- 2:15 – 3:45 PM🍷 Winery visit at Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen (https://saintclair.co.nz/pages/vineyard-kitchen).
- 6:30 PM🍽 Dinner at Raupo Café.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
7
Blenheim · Market + Wineries
Sunday, 21 June
Blenheim
🌡 3–12°C🌅 ~8:09 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:00 – 10:30 AM🧺 Browse the Marlborough Farmers’ Market (https://www.marlboroughfarmersmarket.org.nz).
- 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM🍷 Winery 1: Cloudy Bay tasting. This should be pre-booked in winter.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PM🍷 Winery 2: Allan Scott for a more relaxed second stop.
- 3:00 – 5:30 PMReturn and rest. Important after two wine stops.
🅰️ Dinner Option · Scotch Wine Bar
- Best if you want to continue the wine-day mood.
- Lighter, more refined evening feel.
🅱️ Dinner Option · Dodson Street Beer Garden
- Best if everyone wants something heartier and more casual.
- Good choice after a full day of tasting.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
8
Blenheim → Christchurch
Monday, 22 June
BlenheimKaikōuraChristchurch
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~310 km⏱ ~4 hr 45 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMLight breakfast.
- 9:00 – 11:00 AMDrive south to Kaikōura.
🅰️ Kaikōura Lunch · Cods & Crayfish
- Best experience lunch.
- Use this if the family wants the more memorable seafood stop.
🅱️ Kaikōura Lunch · Coopers Catch
- Safer, simpler and reliable.
- Good if you want to keep the stop fast and easy.
- 12:30 – 3:00 PMDrive Kaikōura to Christchurch.
- AfternoonCheck in, rest, or do a short shopping hit only if energy remains.
- 6:00 – 7:00 PM🏎️ Indoor fun at Supa Karts (https://www.supakarts.co.nz).
- DinnerSimple dinner afterwards.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
9
Christchurch · Flexible Day with 2 Modes
Tuesday, 23 June
ChristchurchWeather-flex day
🌡 3–11°C🌅 ~8:10 AM🌇 ~4:58 PM
- 8:30 – 9:30 AM☕ Common start at Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters (https://unknownchapter.co.nz).
- After breakfastChoose the day’s vibe: indoor artisan browsing or classic yarn + picnic sequence.
🅰️ The Tannery Mode · Indoor + Artisan
- 9:45 AM – 12:30 PM browse The Tannery (https://www.tannery.co.nz).
- Great for yarn / fabric feel, unique shops, and the Alchemy Equipment stop.
- 12:00 – 1:00 PM easy lunch inside The Tannery.
- 1:15 – 1:30 PM pick up cake at Divine Cakes, Blenheim Road (https://divine.co.nz/pages/store-locator).
- Return to motel to store cake in fridge.
- 2:30 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes, with optional Decjuba / Glassons / Moochi.
🅱️ Classic Mode · Yarn + Picnic
- 9:45 – 10:30 AM yarn stop at Knit World Christchurch (https://knitting.co.nz/pages/knit-world-christchurch).
- 10:45 – 11:00 AM cake pickup at Divine Cakes (https://divine.co.nz/pages/store-locator).
- Return to motel and store cake before picnic prep.
- 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM shop picnic supplies at New World (https://www.newworld.co.nz).
- 12:15 – 1:45 PM picnic at Hagley Park. Parking: Rolleston Ave (https://maps.google.com/?q=Rolleston+Avenue+Christchurch) or Armagh Street (https://maps.google.com/?q=Armagh+Street+Christchurch).
- 2:15 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes afterwards.
- 5:00 – 6:00 PMCommon reset back at the motel.
- 6:00 – 7:30 PMCommon easy dinner.
- EveningRest. Good night to keep things calm before birthday day.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
10
Jake’s 18th Birthday · Two Complete Paths
Wednesday, 24 June
ChristchurchBirthday
🌡 2–11°C🌅 ~8:11 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:30 – 10:30 AMCommon relaxed start. Sleep in, easy breakfast, no rushing.
- Decision pointChoose one complete birthday experience only. Option A is the thrill day. Option B is the scenic beach ride day without zipline.
🅰️ Option A · Zipline Birthday Day
- 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM lunch at Smash Palace (https://thesmashpalace.co.nz).
- 12:45 – 2:15 PM return / digest / change into warm outdoor gear.
- 2:15 – 2:45 PM drive to Christchurch Adventure Park Zipline (https://zipchristchurch.com/the-long-ride/).
- 3:00 – 5:30 PM zipline session.
- 5:30 – 6:15 PM return and reset. This is exactly why dinner was moved later.
- 6:15 – 6:45 PM picnic-style cake moment and family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
🅱️ Option B · Cycle to Beach Day
- 9:45 – 10:15 AM bike setup at Action Bicycle Club (https://www.actionbicycleclub.com/bike-hire/).
- Route guide: Action Bicycle Club Sumner Beach Picnic Ride (https://www.actionbicycleclub.com/abc-routes-sumner-beach-picnic-ride/).
- 10:15 – 11:30/11:45 AM ride the Puari ki Rapanui / Coastal Pathway route to Sumner.
- 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM lunch at Joe’s Garage Sumner (https://www.joes.co.nz/sumner/menu/before-5pm).
- 12:30 – 1:15 PM beach relax and photos.
- 1:15 – 2:30 PM cycle back.
- 2:30 – 5:30 PM long reset block. No zipline on this version; combining both would feel rushed.
- 6:00 – 6:40 PM cake + family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
- 7:30 PM🍽 Birthday dinner at 5th Street. Later timing gives healthy buffer for either option.
- After dinnerPack for departure and keep the night gentle.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Christchurch
Dep
✈
Departure from Christchurch
Thursday, 25 June
SQ298
- 6:15 AMLeave motel.
- 6:30 AMArrive Christchurch Airport area.
- 7:00 AMReturn rental car to Ezi Car Rental.
- 10:50 AM✈ SQ298 departs Christchurch for Singapore.
v202603251846
🇳🇿
NZ South Island
14 – 25 June 2026 · Family Winter Road Trip
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs → Blenheim → Christchurch
🛫 Flight Details
SQ 297
Outbound
SIN
19:50
Singapore
Sun 14 Jun
9h 40m · Non-stop
CHC
09:30
Christchurch
Mon 15 Jun
SQ 298
Return
CHC
10:50
Christchurch
Thu 25 Jun
10h 50m · Non-stop
SIN
17:40
Singapore
Thu 25 Jun
🚗 Car Rental
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (or similar)
Ezi Car Rental · Christchurch Airport · Booking Ref 714300435
Rental Window
15–25 JUN
📍 Pick-upMon 15 Jun · 11:30 AM
📍 Drop-offThu 25 Jun · 7:00 AM
📌 LocationChristchurch Airport
🔗 Rental linkezicarrental.co.nz
👤 DriverJack Ling
⏰ Arrival buffer2 hours before pickup
✈ Departure buffer6:15 AM leave motel
🧭 NotesRefuel before airport return
⚙️ Automatic
🔋 Hybrid
💺 5 seats
🧳 Fits family road-trip luggage
🏨 Accommodation
| Location | Property | Check-in | Check-out | Nights | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏙 Christchurch | Riccarton Mall Motel | 15 Jun | 18 Jun | 3 | ✓ Confirmed |
| ♨️ Hanmer Springs | Alpine Garden Motel | 18 Jun | 20 Jun | 2 | ✓ Confirmed |
| 🍷 Blenheim | Centre Court Motel, Free cancel before 17 June 2026 | 20 Jun | 22 Jun | 2 | ✓ Confirmed | >
| 🏙 Christchurch | To Book | 22 Jun | 25 Jun | 3 | 📋 To Book |
🔗 Quick Reference Links
Christchurch Core
Outdoor & Drive Days
Food & Birthday
📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary
Dep
✈
Departure from Singapore
Sunday, 14 June
SQ297
- EveningHead to Changi Airport Terminal 3 for SQ297.
- 7:50 PM✈ Flight departs Singapore for Christchurch.
Day
1
Arrival in Christchurch · Light Landing Day
Monday, 15 June
Christchurch
🌡 6–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 9:30 – 10:15 AMArrive Christchurch, clear immigration and collect bags.
- 10:15 – 11:15 AMAirport buffer for coffee, restroom, SIM setup or simply breathing after the overnight flight.
- 11:30 AM🚗 Pick up rental car from Ezi Car Rental.
- 11:30 AM – 12:00 PMDrive ~10 km to Riccarton. Early check-in if available; otherwise leave bags and head out.
- 12:30 – 5:30 PM🛍 Easy shopping block at Westfield Riccarton. Keep this light and practical on arrival day.
- DinnerSimple casual dinner at Wendy’s Hornby.
- EveningOptional Kmart stop if needed, then early rest.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
2
Christchurch · Core Shopping Day
Tuesday, 16 June
Christchurch
🌡 5–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:30 AM☕ Breakfast at Addington Coffee Co-op.
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMDrive to outlet area.
- 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM🛍 Main shopping block at Dress Smart Hornby. Best day for practical clothing and outlet brands.
- LunchFlexible lunch inside the outlet.
- 3:00 – 3:40 PMQuick targeted stop at Lululemon Christchurch.
🅰️ Option A · Rest Mode
- 3:45 – 5:30 PM return to motel.
- Best if everyone is already shopped out.
- Keeps energy high for cycling day tomorrow.
🅱️ Option B · Upgrade Shopping
- 3:45 – 5:15 PM continue to Ballantynes.
- Best for mum’s nicer office wear browsing.
- Use only if energy levels are still good.
- 6:00 – 7:15 PM🍽 Dinner at Riverside Market.
- EveningLight evening only. Optional Kmart if something is still missing.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
3
Christchurch · Cycling Day with Easy Motel Dinner
Wednesday, 17 June
Christchurch
🌡 4–11°C🌅 ~8:06 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:15 AM🥐 Breakfast at Grizzly Baked Goods.
- 8:15 – 8:45 AMDrive / move to bike rental.
- 9:00 – 9:20 AM🚴 Bike setup at Action Bicycle Club.
- 9:20 AM – 12:15 PMRide the Hagley Park loop and Avon-side stretches. Flat, scenic and low stress.
- 12:15 – 1:15 PMLunch at Ilex Café inside the Botanic Gardens area.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PMGentle return ride.
- ~3:00 PMReturn bikes.
- 3:00 – 4:00 PM🛒 Grocery stop at New World. Buy pre-cooked meals for tonight, plus milk, bread, ham and cheese for tomorrow’s in-room breakfast.
- 4:30 PM onwardReturn to motel, shower, warm up and settle in.
- Dinner🍱 Eat New World pre-cooked meals in the motel room. Best recovery move before the Hanmer drive.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
4
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs
Thursday, 18 June
ChristchurchHanmer
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~115 km⏱ ~2 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:00 – 8:30 AMIn-room breakfast using Day 3 groceries.
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMDrive Christchurch to Amberley.
- 9:30 – 10:00 AM☕ Coffee stop at Little Vintage Espresso.
- 10:00 – 10:15 AMDrive to Waipara.
- 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM🍷 Winery lunch at Black Estate. This is the anchor stop of the drive north.
- 1:30 – 2:45 PMDrive Waipara to Hanmer Springs.
- 2:45 – 3:15 PMCheck in at Alpine Garden Motel.
- 3:30 – 5:45 PM♨️ Relax at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools.
- 7:00 PM🍽 Dinner at MK Restaurant.
🌌 Stargazing Option A
- Stay near the motel if energy is low.
- Easy, short, no extra driving.
🌌 Stargazing Option B
- Drive to Dog Stream area for darker sky.
- Best only if the sky is clear and everyone still has fuel in the tank.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
5
Hanmer Springs · Hike + ATV
Friday, 19 June
Hanmer Springs
🌡 2–10°C🌅 ~8:07 AM🌇 ~4:56 PM
- 8:00 – 8:25 AMSimple breakfast in Hanmer.
- 8:45 – 11:30 AM🥾 Hike the Dog Stream Waterfall Track.
- 11:40 AM – 12:20 PMLunch at The Log Cabin.
- 2:00 – 5:00 PM🏎️ ATV session with Hanmer Springs Attractions.
- 6:30 PM🍽 Casual hearty dinner at Monteith’s Brewery Bar.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
6
Hanmer → Kaikōura Coast → Blenheim
Saturday, 20 June
HanmerKaikōuraBlenheim
🌡 3–12°C🚗 ~210 km⏱ ~4 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMBreakfast at Powerhouse Café.
- 9:30 – 11:45 AMDrive Hanmer to Kaikōura.
- 11:45 AM – 12:00 PM🦭 Quick stop at Ohau Point Seal Colony.
- 12:20 – 1:20 PMDrive Kaikōura to Seddon.
- 1:20 – 1:40 PM🥪 Quick bite / coffee at The Store @ Seddon.
- 1:40 – 2:05 PMFinal drive into Blenheim.
- 2:15 – 3:45 PM🍷 Winery visit at Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen.
- 6:30 PM🍽 Dinner at Raupo Café.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
7
Blenheim · Market + Wineries
Sunday, 21 June
Blenheim
🌡 3–12°C🌅 ~8:09 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:00 – 10:30 AM🧺 Browse the Marlborough Farmers’ Market.
- 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM🍷 Winery 1: Cloudy Bay tasting. This should be pre-booked in winter.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PM🍷 Winery 2: Allan Scott for a more relaxed second stop.
- 3:00 – 5:30 PMReturn and rest. Important after two wine stops.
🅰️ Dinner Option · Scotch Wine Bar
- Best if you want to continue the wine-day mood.
- Lighter, more refined evening feel.
🅱️ Dinner Option · Dodson Street Beer Garden
- Best if everyone wants something heartier and more casual.
- Good choice after a full day of tasting.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
8
Blenheim → Christchurch
Monday, 22 June
BlenheimKaikōuraChristchurch
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~310 km⏱ ~4 hr 45 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMLight breakfast.
- 9:00 – 11:00 AMDrive south to Kaikōura.
🅰️ Kaikōura Lunch · Cods & Crayfish
- Best experience lunch.
- Use this if the family wants the more memorable seafood stop.
🅱️ Kaikōura Lunch · Coopers Catch
- Safer, simpler and reliable.
- Good if you want to keep the stop fast and easy.
- 12:30 – 3:00 PMDrive Kaikōura to Christchurch.
- AfternoonCheck in, rest, or do a short shopping hit only if energy remains.
- 6:00 – 7:00 PM🏎️ Indoor fun at Supa Karts.
- DinnerSimple dinner afterwards.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
9
Christchurch · Flexible Day with 2 Modes
Tuesday, 23 June
ChristchurchWeather-flex day
🌡 3–11°C🌅 ~8:10 AM🌇 ~4:58 PM
- 8:30 – 9:30 AM☕ Common start at Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters.
- After breakfastChoose the day’s vibe: indoor artisan browsing or classic yarn + picnic sequence.
🅰️ The Tannery Mode · Indoor + Artisan
- 9:45 AM – 12:30 PM browse The Tannery.
- Great for yarn / fabric feel, unique shops, and the Alchemy Equipment stop.
- 12:00 – 1:00 PM easy lunch inside The Tannery.
- 1:15 – 1:30 PM pick up cake at Divine Cakes, Blenheim Road.
- Return to motel to store cake in fridge.
- 2:30 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes, with optional Decjuba / Glassons / Moochi.
🅱️ Classic Mode · Yarn + Picnic
- 9:45 – 10:30 AM yarn stop at Knit World Christchurch.
- 10:45 – 11:00 AM cake pickup at Divine Cakes.
- Return to motel and store cake before picnic prep.
- 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM shop picnic supplies at New World.
- 12:15 – 1:45 PM picnic at Hagley Park. Parking: Rolleston Ave or Armagh Street.
- 2:15 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes afterwards.
- 5:00 – 6:00 PMCommon reset back at the motel.
- 6:00 – 7:30 PMCommon easy dinner.
- EveningRest. Good night to keep things calm before birthday day.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
10
Jake’s 18th Birthday · Two Complete Paths
Wednesday, 24 June
ChristchurchBirthday
🌡 2–11°C🌅 ~8:11 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:30 – 10:30 AMCommon relaxed start. Sleep in, easy breakfast, no rushing.
- Decision pointChoose one complete birthday experience only. Option A is the thrill day. Option B is the scenic beach ride day without zipline.
🅰️ Option A · Picnic + Zipline Day
- 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM lunch at Smash Palace.
- 12:45 – 2:15 PM return / digest / change into warm outdoor gear.
- 2:15 – 2:45 PM drive to Christchurch Adventure Park Zipline.
- 3:00 – 5:30 PM zipline session.
- 5:30 – 6:15 PM return and reset. This is exactly why dinner was moved later.
- 6:15 – 6:45 PM picnic-style cake moment and family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
🅱️ Option B · Cycle to Beach Day
- 9:45 – 10:15 AM bike setup at Action Bicycle Club.
- Route guide: Action Bicycle Club Sumner Beach Picnic Ride.
- 10:15 – 11:30/11:45 AM ride the Puari ki Rapanui / Coastal Pathway route to Sumner.
- 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM lunch at Joe’s Garage Sumner.
- 12:30 – 1:15 PM beach relax and photos.
- 1:15 – 2:30 PM cycle back.
- 2:30 – 5:30 PM long reset block. No zipline on this version; combining both would feel rushed.
- 6:00 – 6:40 PM cake + family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
- 7:30 PM🍽 Birthday dinner at 5th Street. Later timing gives healthy buffer for either option.
- After dinnerPack for departure and keep the night gentle.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Christchurch
Dep
✈
Departure from Christchurch
Thursday, 25 June
SQ298
- 6:15 AMLeave motel.
- 6:30 AMArrive Christchurch Airport area.
- 7:00 AMReturn rental car to Ezi Car Rental.
- 10:50 AM✈ SQ298 departs Christchurch for Singapore.
v202603251730
🇳🇿
NZ South Island
14 – 25 June 2026 · Family Winter Road Trip
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs → Blenheim → Christchurch
Trip shape: arrive Christchurch, ease into shopping and cycling, head north to Hanmer for hot pools and ATV, continue to Blenheim for market + wineries, then return to Christchurch for flexible Day 9 and Jake’s birthday on Day 10. Day 9 has two weather-proof modes, and Day 10 has two complete birthday paths: Option A = picnic + zipline day, Option B = cycle-to-beach day without zipline.
🛫 Flight Details
SQ 297
Outbound
SIN
19:50
Singapore
Sun 14 Jun
9h 40m · Non-stop
CHC
09:30
Christchurch
Mon 15 Jun
SQ 298
Return
CHC
10:50
Christchurch
Thu 25 Jun
10h 50m · Non-stop
SIN
17:40
Singapore
Thu 25 Jun
🚗 Car Rental
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (or similar)
Ezi Car Rental · Christchurch Airport · Booking Ref 714300435
Rental Window
15–25 JUN
📍 Pick-upMon 15 Jun · 11:30 AM
📍 Drop-offThu 25 Jun · 7:00 AM
📌 LocationChristchurch Airport
🔗 Rental linkezicarrental.co.nz
👤 DriverJack Ling
⏰ Arrival buffer2 hours before pickup
✈ Departure buffer6:15 AM leave motel
🧭 NotesRefuel before airport return
⚙️ Automatic
🔋 Hybrid
💺 5 seats
🧳 Fits family road-trip luggage
🏨 Accommodation
🏙
ChristchurchFirst stay
♨️
Hanmer SpringsMid-trip stay
🍷
BlenheimMarlborough chapter
To Book
Check-in20 Jun 2026
Check-out22 Jun 2026
🌙 2 nights
🏙
ChristchurchFinal stay
To Book
Check-in22 Jun 2026
Check-out25 Jun 2026
🌙 3 nights
| Location | Property | Check-in | Check-out | Nights | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏙 Christchurch | Riccarton Mall Motel | 15 Jun | 18 Jun | 3 | ✓ Confirmed |
| ♨️ Hanmer Springs | Alpine Garden Motel | 18 Jun | 20 Jun | 2 | ✓ Confirmed |
| 🍷 Blenheim | To Book | 20 Jun | 22 Jun | 2 | 📋 To Book |
| 🏙 Christchurch | To Book | 22 Jun | 25 Jun | 3 | 📋 To Book |
🔗 Quick Reference Links
Christchurch Core
Outdoor & Drive Days
Food & Birthday
📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary
Dep
✈
Departure from Singapore
Sunday, 14 June
SQ297
- EveningHead to Changi Airport Terminal 3 for SQ297.
- 7:50 PM✈ Flight departs Singapore for Christchurch.
Day
1
Arrival in Christchurch · Light Landing Day
Monday, 15 June
Christchurch
🌡 6–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 9:30 – 10:15 AMArrive Christchurch, clear immigration and collect bags.
- 10:15 – 11:15 AMAirport buffer for coffee, restroom, SIM setup or simply breathing after the overnight flight.
- 11:30 AM🚗 Pick up rental car from Ezi Car Rental.
- 11:30 AM – 12:00 PMDrive ~10 km to Riccarton. Early check-in if available; otherwise leave bags and head out.
- 12:30 – 5:30 PM🛍 Easy shopping block at Westfield Riccarton. Keep this light and practical on arrival day.
- DinnerSimple casual dinner at Wendy’s Hornby.
- EveningOptional Kmart stop if needed, then early rest.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
2
Christchurch · Core Shopping Day
Tuesday, 16 June
Christchurch
🌡 5–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:30 AM☕ Breakfast at Addington Coffee Co-op.
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMDrive to outlet area.
- 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM🛍 Main shopping block at Dress Smart Hornby. Best day for practical clothing and outlet brands.
- LunchFlexible lunch inside the outlet.
- 3:00 – 3:40 PMQuick targeted stop at Lululemon Christchurch.
🅰️ Option A · Rest Mode
- 3:45 – 5:30 PM return to motel.
- Best if everyone is already shopped out.
- Keeps energy high for cycling day tomorrow.
🅱️ Option B · Upgrade Shopping
- 3:45 – 5:15 PM continue to Ballantynes.
- Best for mum’s nicer office wear browsing.
- Use only if energy levels are still good.
- 6:00 – 7:15 PM🍽 Dinner at Riverside Market.
- EveningLight evening only. Optional Kmart if something is still missing.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
3
Christchurch · Cycling Day with Easy Motel Dinner
Wednesday, 17 June
Christchurch
🌡 4–11°C🌅 ~8:06 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:15 AM🥐 Breakfast at Grizzly Baked Goods.
- 8:15 – 8:45 AMDrive / move to bike rental.
- 9:00 – 9:20 AM🚴 Bike setup at Action Bicycle Club.
- 9:20 AM – 12:15 PMRide the Hagley Park loop and Avon-side stretches. Flat, scenic and low stress.
- 12:15 – 1:15 PMLunch at Ilex Café inside the Botanic Gardens area.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PMGentle return ride.
- ~3:00 PMReturn bikes.
- 3:00 – 4:00 PM🛒 Grocery stop at New World. Buy pre-cooked meals for tonight, plus milk, bread, ham and cheese for tomorrow’s in-room breakfast.
- 4:30 PM onwardReturn to motel, shower, warm up and settle in.
- Dinner🍱 Eat New World pre-cooked meals in the motel room. Best recovery move before the Hanmer drive.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
4
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs
Thursday, 18 June
ChristchurchHanmer
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~115 km⏱ ~2 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:00 – 8:30 AMIn-room breakfast using Day 3 groceries.
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMDrive Christchurch to Amberley.
- 9:30 – 10:00 AM☕ Coffee stop at Little Vintage Espresso.
- 10:00 – 10:15 AMDrive to Waipara.
- 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM🍷 Winery lunch at Black Estate. This is the anchor stop of the drive north.
- 1:30 – 2:45 PMDrive Waipara to Hanmer Springs.
- 2:45 – 3:15 PMCheck in at Alpine Garden Motel.
- 3:30 – 5:45 PM♨️ Relax at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools.
- 7:00 PM🍽 Dinner at MK Restaurant.
🌌 Stargazing Option A
- Stay near the motel if energy is low.
- Easy, short, no extra driving.
🌌 Stargazing Option B
- Drive to Dog Stream area for darker sky.
- Best only if the sky is clear and everyone still has fuel in the tank.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
5
Hanmer Springs · Hike + ATV
Friday, 19 June
Hanmer Springs
🌡 2–10°C🌅 ~8:07 AM🌇 ~4:56 PM
- 8:00 – 8:25 AMSimple breakfast in Hanmer.
- 8:45 – 11:30 AM🥾 Hike the Dog Stream Waterfall Track.
- 11:40 AM – 12:20 PMLunch at The Log Cabin.
- 2:00 – 5:00 PM🏎️ ATV session with Hanmer Springs Attractions.
- 6:30 PM🍽 Casual hearty dinner at Monteith’s Brewery Bar.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
6
Hanmer → Kaikōura Coast → Blenheim
Saturday, 20 June
HanmerKaikōuraBlenheim
🌡 3–12°C🚗 ~210 km⏱ ~4 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMBreakfast at Powerhouse Café.
- 9:30 – 11:45 AMDrive Hanmer to Kaikōura.
- 11:45 AM – 12:00 PM🦭 Quick stop at Ohau Point Seal Colony.
- 12:20 – 1:20 PMDrive Kaikōura to Seddon.
- 1:20 – 1:40 PM🥪 Quick bite / coffee at The Store @ Seddon.
- 1:40 – 2:05 PMFinal drive into Blenheim.
- 2:15 – 3:45 PM🍷 Winery visit at Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen.
- 6:30 PM🍽 Dinner at Raupo Café.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
7
Blenheim · Market + Wineries
Sunday, 21 June
Blenheim
🌡 3–12°C🌅 ~8:09 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:00 – 10:30 AM🧺 Browse the Marlborough Farmers’ Market.
- 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM🍷 Winery 1: Cloudy Bay tasting. This should be pre-booked in winter.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PM🍷 Winery 2: Allan Scott for a more relaxed second stop.
- 3:00 – 5:30 PMReturn and rest. Important after two wine stops.
🅰️ Dinner Option · Scotch Wine Bar
- Best if you want to continue the wine-day mood.
- Lighter, more refined evening feel.
🅱️ Dinner Option · Dodson Street Beer Garden
- Best if everyone wants something heartier and more casual.
- Good choice after a full day of tasting.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
8
Blenheim → Christchurch
Monday, 22 June
BlenheimKaikōuraChristchurch
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~310 km⏱ ~4 hr 45 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMLight breakfast.
- 9:00 – 11:00 AMDrive south to Kaikōura.
🅰️ Kaikōura Lunch · Cods & Crayfish
- Best experience lunch.
- Use this if the family wants the more memorable seafood stop.
🅱️ Kaikōura Lunch · Coopers Catch
- Safer, simpler and reliable.
- Good if you want to keep the stop fast and easy.
- 12:30 – 3:00 PMDrive Kaikōura to Christchurch.
- AfternoonCheck in, rest, or do a short shopping hit only if energy remains.
- 6:00 – 7:00 PM🏎️ Indoor fun at Supa Karts.
- DinnerSimple dinner afterwards.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
9
Christchurch · Flexible Day with 2 Modes
Tuesday, 23 June
ChristchurchWeather-flex day
🌡 3–11°C🌅 ~8:10 AM🌇 ~4:58 PM
- 8:30 – 9:30 AM☕ Common start at Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters.
- After breakfastChoose the day’s vibe: indoor artisan browsing or classic yarn + picnic sequence.
🅰️ The Tannery Mode · Indoor + Artisan
- 9:45 AM – 12:30 PM browse The Tannery.
- Great for yarn / fabric feel, unique shops, and the Alchemy Equipment stop.
- 12:00 – 1:00 PM easy lunch inside The Tannery.
- 1:15 – 1:30 PM pick up cake at Divine Cakes, Blenheim Road.
- Return to motel to store cake in fridge.
- 2:30 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes, with optional Decjuba / Glassons / Moochi.
🅱️ Classic Mode · Yarn + Picnic
- 9:45 – 10:30 AM yarn stop at Knit World Christchurch.
- 10:45 – 11:00 AM cake pickup at Divine Cakes.
- Return to motel and store cake before picnic prep.
- 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM shop picnic supplies at New World.
- 12:15 – 1:45 PM picnic at Hagley Park. Parking: Rolleston Ave or Armagh Street.
- 2:15 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes afterwards.
- 5:00 – 6:00 PMCommon reset back at the motel.
- 6:00 – 7:30 PMCommon easy dinner.
- EveningRest. Good night to keep things calm before birthday day.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
10
Jake’s 18th Birthday · Two Complete Paths
Wednesday, 24 June
ChristchurchBirthday
🌡 2–11°C🌅 ~8:11 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:30 – 10:30 AMCommon relaxed start. Sleep in, easy breakfast, no rushing.
- Decision pointChoose one complete birthday experience only. Option A is the thrill day. Option B is the scenic beach ride day without zipline.
🅰️ Option A · Picnic + Zipline Day
- 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM lunch at Smash Palace.
- 12:45 – 2:15 PM return / digest / change into warm outdoor gear.
- 2:15 – 2:45 PM drive to Christchurch Adventure Park Zipline.
- 3:00 – 5:30 PM zipline session.
- 5:30 – 6:15 PM return and reset. This is exactly why dinner was moved later.
- 6:15 – 6:45 PM picnic-style cake moment and family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
🅱️ Option B · Cycle to Beach Day
- 9:45 – 10:15 AM bike setup at Action Bicycle Club.
- 10:15 – 11:30/11:45 AM ride the Puari ki Rapanui / Coastal Pathway route to Sumner.
- 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM lunch at Joe’s Garage Sumner.
- 12:30 – 1:15 PM beach relax and photos.
- 1:15 – 2:30 PM cycle back.
- 2:30 – 5:30 PM long reset block. No zipline on this version; combining both would feel rushed.
- 6:00 – 6:40 PM cake + family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
- 7:30 PM🍽 Birthday dinner at 5th Street. Later timing gives healthy buffer for either option.
- After dinnerPack for departure and keep the night gentle.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Christchurch
Dep
✈
Departure from Christchurch
Thursday, 25 June
SQ298
- 6:15 AMLeave motel.
- 6:30 AMArrive Christchurch Airport area.
- 7:00 AMReturn rental car to Ezi Car Rental.
- 10:50 AM✈ SQ298 departs Christchurch for Singapore.
the below are enhanced Chatgpt versions:
🇳🇿 NZ South Island Itinerary (Light Update Version)
Day 9 — Christchurch
Decision: Tannery (rain/indoor) | Picnic (good weather)
Option A — Tannery
Visit Tannery: https://www.tannery.co.nz
Lunch inside, cake pickup after.
Option B — Picnic
Knit World → Cake pickup → New World → Hagley Park picnic
Day 10 — Jake’s Birthday 🎂
Decision: Zipline (adventure) | Beach Ride (relax)
Option A — Zipline
Lunch: Smash Palace https://thesmashpalace.co.nz
Zipline: Christchurch Adventure Park https://zipchristchurch.com
⭐ Book ahead
Option B — Beach Ride
Cycle to Sumner → Lunch: Joe’s Garage https://www.joes.co.nz/sumner/menu/before-5pm
Pack: Warm layers, gloves (cycling / zipline)
Dinner: 5th Street (7:30 PM) ⭐ Confirmed
Key Bookings
- Cloudy Bay Winery ⭐ Book
- Supa Karts ⭐ Book
- 5th Street Dinner ⭐ Confirmed
10 day itinerary v202603251730
review notes
- confirmed Christchurch 1st leg accomodation
- confirmed Hanmer accomodation
- removed Hogarth Chocolate, not a factory visit
- chatgpt hallucinated luge in Christchurch! Removed
ai notes
itinerary crafted with chatgpt, manually verified all stops because chatgpt hallucinates. Used Claude to format, but hit 90% Claude limit in free mode. Asked Chatgpt to follow Claude html format
v202603152202
🇳🇿
NZ South Island
14 – 25 June 2026 · Family Winter Road Trip
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs → Blenheim → Christchurch
🛫 Flight Details
SQ 297
Outbound
SIN
19:50
Singapore
Sun 14 Jun
9h 40m · Non-stop
CHC
09:30
Christchurch
Mon 15 Jun
SQ 298
Return
CHC
10:50
Christchurch
Thu 25 Jun
10h 50m · Non-stop
SIN
17:40
Singapore
Thu 25 Jun
🚗 Car Rental
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (or similar)
Ezi Car Rental · Christchurch Airport · Booking Ref 714300435
Rental Window
15–25 JUN
📍 Pick-upMon 15 Jun · 11:30 AM
📍 Drop-offThu 25 Jun · 7:00 AM
📌 LocationChristchurch Airport
🔗 Rental linkezicarrental.co.nz
👤 DriverJack Ling
⏰ Arrival buffer2 hours before pickup
✈ Departure buffer6:15 AM leave motel
🧭 NotesRefuel before airport return
⚙️ Automatic
🔋 Hybrid
💺 5 seats
🧳 Fits family road-trip luggage
🏨 Accommodation
🏙
ChristchurchFirst stay
♨️
Hanmer SpringsMid-trip stay
Alpine Garden Motel (https://alpinegardenmotel.co.nz)
Check-in18 Jun 2026
Check-out20 Jun 2026
🌙 2 nights
🍷
BlenheimMarlborough chapter
Centre Court Motel (https://www.centrecourtmotel.co.nz)
Check-in20 Jun 2026
Check-out22 Jun 2026
Booking ID1994958887
Rooms2
🌙 2 nights
CancellationFree cancel before 17 Jun 2026
🏙
ChristchurchFinal stay
To Book
Check-in22 Jun 2026
Check-out25 Jun 2026
🌙 3 nights
| Location | Property | Check-in | Check-out | Nights | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏙 Christchurch | Riccarton Mall Motel | 15 Jun | 18 Jun | 3 | ✓ Confirmed |
| ♨️ Hanmer Springs | Alpine Garden Motel | 18 Jun | 20 Jun | 2 | ✓ Confirmed |
| 🍷 Blenheim | Centre Court Motel (https://www.centrecourtmotel.co.nz) Booking ID: 1994958887 · 2 rooms · Free cancel before 17 Jun 2026 | 20 Jun | 22 Jun | 2 | ✓ Confirmed |
| 🏙 Christchurch | To Book | 22 Jun | 25 Jun | 3 | 📋 To Book |
📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary
Dep
✈
Departure from Singapore
Sunday, 14 June
SQ297
- EveningHead to Changi Airport Terminal 3 for SQ297.
- 7:50 PM✈ Flight departs Singapore for Christchurch.
Day
1
Arrival in Christchurch · Light Landing Day
Monday, 15 June
Christchurch
🌡 6–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 9:30 – 10:15 AMArrive Christchurch, clear immigration and collect bags.
- 10:15 – 11:15 AMAirport buffer for coffee, restroom, SIM setup or simply breathing after the overnight flight.
- 11:30 AM🚗 Pick up rental car from Ezi Car Rental (https://www.ezicarrental.co.nz/locations/christchurch-airport/).
- 11:30 AM – 12:00 PMDrive ~10 km to Riccarton. Early check-in if available; otherwise leave bags and head out.
- 12:30 – 5:30 PM🛍 Easy shopping block at Westfield Riccarton (https://www.westfield.co.nz/riccarton). Keep this light and practical on arrival day.
- DinnerSimple casual dinner at Wendy’s Hornby (https://www.wendys.co.nz/stores/wendys-hornby).
- EveningOptional Kmart stop if needed, then early rest.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
2
Christchurch · Core Shopping Day
Tuesday, 16 June
Christchurch
🌡 5–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:30 AM☕ Breakfast at Addington Coffee Co-op (https://www.addingtoncoffee.org.nz).
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMDrive to outlet area.
- 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM🛍 Main shopping block at Dress Smart Hornby (https://christchurch.dress-smart.co.nz/stores/). Best day for practical clothing and outlet brands.
- LunchFlexible lunch inside the outlet.
- 3:00 – 3:40 PMQuick targeted stop at Lululemon Christchurch (https://www.lululemon.co.nz).
🅰️ Option A · Rest Mode
- 3:45 – 5:30 PM return to motel.
- Best if everyone is already shopped out.
- Keeps energy high for cycling day tomorrow.
🅱️ Option B · Upgrade Shopping
- 3:45 – 5:15 PM continue to Ballantynes (https://www.ballantynes.co.nz).
- Best for mum’s nicer office wear browsing.
- Use only if energy levels are still good.
- 6:00 – 7:15 PM🍽 Dinner at Riverside Market (https://riverside.nz).
- EveningLight evening only. Optional Kmart if something is still missing.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
3
Christchurch · Cycling Day with Easy Motel Dinner
Wednesday, 17 June
Christchurch
🌡 4–11°C🌅 ~8:06 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:15 AM🥐 Breakfast at Grizzly Baked Goods (https://grizzlybakedgoods.com/cashel-street).
- 8:15 – 8:45 AMDrive / move to bike rental.
- 9:00 – 9:20 AM🚴 Bike setup at Action Bicycle Club (https://www.actionbicycleclub.com/bike-hire/).
- 9:20 AM – 12:15 PMRide the Hagley Park loop and Avon-side stretches. Flat, scenic and low stress.
- 12:15 – 1:15 PMLunch at Ilex Café inside the Botanic Gardens area.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PMGentle return ride.
- ~3:00 PMReturn bikes.
- 3:00 – 4:00 PM🛒 Grocery stop at New World (https://www.newworld.co.nz). Buy pre-cooked meals for tonight, plus milk, bread, ham and cheese for tomorrow’s in-room breakfast.
- 4:30 PM onwardReturn to motel, shower, warm up and settle in.
- Dinner🍱 Eat New World pre-cooked meals in the motel room. Best recovery move before the Hanmer drive.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
4
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs
Thursday, 18 June
ChristchurchHanmer
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~115 km⏱ ~2 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:00 – 8:30 AMIn-room breakfast using Day 3 groceries.
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMDrive Christchurch to Amberley.
- 9:30 – 10:00 AM☕ Coffee stop at Little Vintage Espresso (https://www.littlevintage.co.nz/).
- 10:00 – 10:15 AMDrive to Waipara.
- 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM🍷 Winery lunch at Black Estate (https://blackestate.co.nz/). This is the anchor stop of the drive north.
- 1:30 – 2:45 PMDrive Waipara to Hanmer Springs.
- 2:45 – 3:15 PMCheck in at Alpine Garden Motel (https://alpinegardenmotel.co.nz).
- 3:30 – 5:45 PM♨️ Relax at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools (https://hanmersprings.co.nz).
- 7:00 PM🍽 Dinner at MK Restaurant.
🌌 Stargazing Option A
- Stay near the motel if energy is low.
- Easy, short, no extra driving.
🌌 Stargazing Option B
- Drive to Dog Stream area for darker sky.
- Best only if the sky is clear and everyone still has fuel in the tank.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
5
Hanmer Springs · Hike + ATV
Friday, 19 June
Hanmer Springs
🌡 2–10°C🌅 ~8:07 AM🌇 ~4:56 PM
- 8:00 – 8:25 AMSimple breakfast in Hanmer.
- 8:45 – 11:30 AM🥾 Hike the Dog Stream Waterfall Track (https://planmywalk.nz/tracks/dog-stream-waterfall-track).
- 11:40 AM – 12:20 PMLunch at The Log Cabin.
- 2:00 – 5:00 PM🏎️ ATV session with Hanmer Springs Attractions (https://hanmerspringsattractions.nz).
- 6:30 PM🍽 Casual hearty dinner at Monteith’s Brewery Bar.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
6
Hanmer → Kaikōura Coast → Blenheim
Saturday, 20 June
HanmerKaikōuraBlenheim
🌡 3–12°C🚗 ~210 km⏱ ~4 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMBreakfast at Powerhouse Café.
- 9:30 – 11:45 AMDrive Hanmer to Kaikōura.
- 11:45 AM – 12:00 PM🦭 Quick stop at Ohau Point Seal Colony.
- 12:20 – 1:20 PMDrive Kaikōura to Seddon.
- 1:20 – 1:40 PM🥪 Quick bite / coffee at The Store @ Seddon.
- 1:40 – 2:05 PMFinal drive into Blenheim.
- 2:15 – 3:45 PM🍷 Winery visit at Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen (https://saintclair.co.nz/pages/vineyard-kitchen).
- 6:30 PM🍽 Dinner at Raupo Café.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
7
Blenheim · Market + Wineries
Sunday, 21 June
Blenheim
🌡 3–12°C🌅 ~8:09 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:00 – 10:30 AM🧺 Browse the Marlborough Farmers’ Market (https://www.marlboroughfarmersmarket.org.nz).
- 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM🍷 Winery 1: Cloudy Bay tasting. This should be pre-booked in winter.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PM🍷 Winery 2: Allan Scott for a more relaxed second stop.
- 3:00 – 5:30 PMReturn and rest. Important after two wine stops.
🅰️ Dinner Option · Scotch Wine Bar
- Best if you want to continue the wine-day mood.
- Lighter, more refined evening feel.
🅱️ Dinner Option · Dodson Street Beer Garden
- Best if everyone wants something heartier and more casual.
- Good choice after a full day of tasting.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
8
Blenheim → Christchurch
Monday, 22 June
BlenheimKaikōuraChristchurch
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~310 km⏱ ~4 hr 45 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMLight breakfast.
- 9:00 – 11:00 AMDrive south to Kaikōura.
🅰️ Kaikōura Lunch · Cods & Crayfish
- Best experience lunch.
- Use this if the family wants the more memorable seafood stop.
🅱️ Kaikōura Lunch · Coopers Catch
- Safer, simpler and reliable.
- Good if you want to keep the stop fast and easy.
- 12:30 – 3:00 PMDrive Kaikōura to Christchurch.
- AfternoonCheck in, rest, or do a short shopping hit only if energy remains.
- 6:00 – 7:00 PM🏎️ Indoor fun at Supa Karts (https://www.supakarts.co.nz).
- DinnerSimple dinner afterwards.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
9
Christchurch · Flexible Day with 2 Modes
Tuesday, 23 June
ChristchurchWeather-flex day
🌡 3–11°C🌅 ~8:10 AM🌇 ~4:58 PM
- 8:30 – 9:30 AM☕ Common start at Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters (https://unknownchapter.co.nz).
- After breakfastChoose the day’s vibe: indoor artisan browsing or classic yarn + picnic sequence.
🅰️ The Tannery Mode · Indoor + Artisan
- 9:45 AM – 12:30 PM browse The Tannery (https://www.tannery.co.nz).
- Great for yarn / fabric feel, unique shops, and the Alchemy Equipment stop.
- 12:00 – 1:00 PM easy lunch inside The Tannery.
- 1:15 – 1:30 PM pick up cake at Divine Cakes, Blenheim Road (https://divine.co.nz/pages/store-locator).
- Return to motel to store cake in fridge.
- 2:30 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes, with optional Decjuba / Glassons / Moochi.
🅱️ Classic Mode · Yarn + Picnic
- 9:45 – 10:30 AM yarn stop at Knit World Christchurch (https://knitting.co.nz/pages/knit-world-christchurch).
- 10:45 – 11:00 AM cake pickup at Divine Cakes (https://divine.co.nz/pages/store-locator).
- Return to motel and store cake before picnic prep.
- 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM shop picnic supplies at New World (https://www.newworld.co.nz).
- 12:15 – 1:45 PM picnic at Hagley Park. Parking: Rolleston Ave (https://maps.google.com/?q=Rolleston+Avenue+Christchurch) or Armagh Street (https://maps.google.com/?q=Armagh+Street+Christchurch).
- 2:15 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes afterwards.
- 5:00 – 6:00 PMCommon reset back at the motel.
- 6:00 – 7:30 PMCommon easy dinner.
- EveningRest. Good night to keep things calm before birthday day.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
10
Jake’s 18th Birthday · Two Complete Paths
Wednesday, 24 June
ChristchurchBirthday
🌡 2–11°C🌅 ~8:11 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:30 – 10:30 AMCommon relaxed start. Sleep in, easy breakfast, no rushing.
- Decision pointChoose one complete birthday experience only. Option A is the thrill day. Option B is the scenic beach ride day without zipline.
🅰️ Option A · Zipline Birthday Day
- 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM lunch at Smash Palace (https://thesmashpalace.co.nz).
- 12:45 – 2:15 PM return / digest / change into warm outdoor gear.
- 2:15 – 2:45 PM drive to Christchurch Adventure Park Zipline (https://zipchristchurch.com/the-long-ride/).
- 3:00 – 5:30 PM zipline session.
- 5:30 – 6:15 PM return and reset. This is exactly why dinner was moved later.
- 6:15 – 6:45 PM picnic-style cake moment and family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
🅱️ Option B · Cycle to Beach Day
- 9:45 – 10:15 AM bike setup at Action Bicycle Club (https://www.actionbicycleclub.com/bike-hire/).
- Route guide: Action Bicycle Club Sumner Beach Picnic Ride (https://www.actionbicycleclub.com/abc-routes-sumner-beach-picnic-ride/).
- 10:15 – 11:30/11:45 AM ride the Puari ki Rapanui / Coastal Pathway route to Sumner.
- 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM lunch at Joe’s Garage Sumner (https://www.joes.co.nz/sumner/menu/before-5pm).
- 12:30 – 1:15 PM beach relax and photos.
- 1:15 – 2:30 PM cycle back.
- 2:30 – 5:30 PM long reset block. No zipline on this version; combining both would feel rushed.
- 6:00 – 6:40 PM cake + family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
- 7:30 PM🍽 Birthday dinner at 5th Street. Later timing gives healthy buffer for either option.
- After dinnerPack for departure and keep the night gentle.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Christchurch
Dep
✈
Departure from Christchurch
Thursday, 25 June
SQ298
- 6:15 AMLeave motel.
- 6:30 AMArrive Christchurch Airport area.
- 7:00 AMReturn rental car to Ezi Car Rental.
- 10:50 AM✈ SQ298 departs Christchurch for Singapore.
v202603251846
🇳🇿
NZ South Island
14 – 25 June 2026 · Family Winter Road Trip
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs → Blenheim → Christchurch
🛫 Flight Details
SQ 297
Outbound
SIN
19:50
Singapore
Sun 14 Jun
9h 40m · Non-stop
CHC
09:30
Christchurch
Mon 15 Jun
SQ 298
Return
CHC
10:50
Christchurch
Thu 25 Jun
10h 50m · Non-stop
SIN
17:40
Singapore
Thu 25 Jun
🚗 Car Rental
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (or similar)
Ezi Car Rental · Christchurch Airport · Booking Ref 714300435
Rental Window
15–25 JUN
📍 Pick-upMon 15 Jun · 11:30 AM
📍 Drop-offThu 25 Jun · 7:00 AM
📌 LocationChristchurch Airport
🔗 Rental linkezicarrental.co.nz
👤 DriverJack Ling
⏰ Arrival buffer2 hours before pickup
✈ Departure buffer6:15 AM leave motel
🧭 NotesRefuel before airport return
⚙️ Automatic
🔋 Hybrid
💺 5 seats
🧳 Fits family road-trip luggage
🏨 Accommodation
| Location | Property | Check-in | Check-out | Nights | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏙 Christchurch | Riccarton Mall Motel | 15 Jun | 18 Jun | 3 | ✓ Confirmed |
| ♨️ Hanmer Springs | Alpine Garden Motel | 18 Jun | 20 Jun | 2 | ✓ Confirmed |
| 🍷 Blenheim | Centre Court Motel, Free cancel before 17 June 2026 | 20 Jun | 22 Jun | 2 | ✓ Confirmed | >
| 🏙 Christchurch | To Book | 22 Jun | 25 Jun | 3 | 📋 To Book |
🔗 Quick Reference Links
Christchurch Core
Outdoor & Drive Days
Food & Birthday
📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary
Dep
✈
Departure from Singapore
Sunday, 14 June
SQ297
- EveningHead to Changi Airport Terminal 3 for SQ297.
- 7:50 PM✈ Flight departs Singapore for Christchurch.
Day
1
Arrival in Christchurch · Light Landing Day
Monday, 15 June
Christchurch
🌡 6–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 9:30 – 10:15 AMArrive Christchurch, clear immigration and collect bags.
- 10:15 – 11:15 AMAirport buffer for coffee, restroom, SIM setup or simply breathing after the overnight flight.
- 11:30 AM🚗 Pick up rental car from Ezi Car Rental.
- 11:30 AM – 12:00 PMDrive ~10 km to Riccarton. Early check-in if available; otherwise leave bags and head out.
- 12:30 – 5:30 PM🛍 Easy shopping block at Westfield Riccarton. Keep this light and practical on arrival day.
- DinnerSimple casual dinner at Wendy’s Hornby.
- EveningOptional Kmart stop if needed, then early rest.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
2
Christchurch · Core Shopping Day
Tuesday, 16 June
Christchurch
🌡 5–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:30 AM☕ Breakfast at Addington Coffee Co-op.
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMDrive to outlet area.
- 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM🛍 Main shopping block at Dress Smart Hornby. Best day for practical clothing and outlet brands.
- LunchFlexible lunch inside the outlet.
- 3:00 – 3:40 PMQuick targeted stop at Lululemon Christchurch.
🅰️ Option A · Rest Mode
- 3:45 – 5:30 PM return to motel.
- Best if everyone is already shopped out.
- Keeps energy high for cycling day tomorrow.
🅱️ Option B · Upgrade Shopping
- 3:45 – 5:15 PM continue to Ballantynes.
- Best for mum’s nicer office wear browsing.
- Use only if energy levels are still good.
- 6:00 – 7:15 PM🍽 Dinner at Riverside Market.
- EveningLight evening only. Optional Kmart if something is still missing.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
3
Christchurch · Cycling Day with Easy Motel Dinner
Wednesday, 17 June
Christchurch
🌡 4–11°C🌅 ~8:06 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:15 AM🥐 Breakfast at Grizzly Baked Goods.
- 8:15 – 8:45 AMDrive / move to bike rental.
- 9:00 – 9:20 AM🚴 Bike setup at Action Bicycle Club.
- 9:20 AM – 12:15 PMRide the Hagley Park loop and Avon-side stretches. Flat, scenic and low stress.
- 12:15 – 1:15 PMLunch at Ilex Café inside the Botanic Gardens area.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PMGentle return ride.
- ~3:00 PMReturn bikes.
- 3:00 – 4:00 PM🛒 Grocery stop at New World. Buy pre-cooked meals for tonight, plus milk, bread, ham and cheese for tomorrow’s in-room breakfast.
- 4:30 PM onwardReturn to motel, shower, warm up and settle in.
- Dinner🍱 Eat New World pre-cooked meals in the motel room. Best recovery move before the Hanmer drive.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
4
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs
Thursday, 18 June
ChristchurchHanmer
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~115 km⏱ ~2 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:00 – 8:30 AMIn-room breakfast using Day 3 groceries.
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMDrive Christchurch to Amberley.
- 9:30 – 10:00 AM☕ Coffee stop at Little Vintage Espresso.
- 10:00 – 10:15 AMDrive to Waipara.
- 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM🍷 Winery lunch at Black Estate. This is the anchor stop of the drive north.
- 1:30 – 2:45 PMDrive Waipara to Hanmer Springs.
- 2:45 – 3:15 PMCheck in at Alpine Garden Motel.
- 3:30 – 5:45 PM♨️ Relax at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools.
- 7:00 PM🍽 Dinner at MK Restaurant.
🌌 Stargazing Option A
- Stay near the motel if energy is low.
- Easy, short, no extra driving.
🌌 Stargazing Option B
- Drive to Dog Stream area for darker sky.
- Best only if the sky is clear and everyone still has fuel in the tank.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
5
Hanmer Springs · Hike + ATV
Friday, 19 June
Hanmer Springs
🌡 2–10°C🌅 ~8:07 AM🌇 ~4:56 PM
- 8:00 – 8:25 AMSimple breakfast in Hanmer.
- 8:45 – 11:30 AM🥾 Hike the Dog Stream Waterfall Track.
- 11:40 AM – 12:20 PMLunch at The Log Cabin.
- 2:00 – 5:00 PM🏎️ ATV session with Hanmer Springs Attractions.
- 6:30 PM🍽 Casual hearty dinner at Monteith’s Brewery Bar.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
6
Hanmer → Kaikōura Coast → Blenheim
Saturday, 20 June
HanmerKaikōuraBlenheim
🌡 3–12°C🚗 ~210 km⏱ ~4 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMBreakfast at Powerhouse Café.
- 9:30 – 11:45 AMDrive Hanmer to Kaikōura.
- 11:45 AM – 12:00 PM🦭 Quick stop at Ohau Point Seal Colony.
- 12:20 – 1:20 PMDrive Kaikōura to Seddon.
- 1:20 – 1:40 PM🥪 Quick bite / coffee at The Store @ Seddon.
- 1:40 – 2:05 PMFinal drive into Blenheim.
- 2:15 – 3:45 PM🍷 Winery visit at Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen.
- 6:30 PM🍽 Dinner at Raupo Café.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
7
Blenheim · Market + Wineries
Sunday, 21 June
Blenheim
🌡 3–12°C🌅 ~8:09 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:00 – 10:30 AM🧺 Browse the Marlborough Farmers’ Market.
- 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM🍷 Winery 1: Cloudy Bay tasting. This should be pre-booked in winter.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PM🍷 Winery 2: Allan Scott for a more relaxed second stop.
- 3:00 – 5:30 PMReturn and rest. Important after two wine stops.
🅰️ Dinner Option · Scotch Wine Bar
- Best if you want to continue the wine-day mood.
- Lighter, more refined evening feel.
🅱️ Dinner Option · Dodson Street Beer Garden
- Best if everyone wants something heartier and more casual.
- Good choice after a full day of tasting.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
8
Blenheim → Christchurch
Monday, 22 June
BlenheimKaikōuraChristchurch
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~310 km⏱ ~4 hr 45 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMLight breakfast.
- 9:00 – 11:00 AMDrive south to Kaikōura.
🅰️ Kaikōura Lunch · Cods & Crayfish
- Best experience lunch.
- Use this if the family wants the more memorable seafood stop.
🅱️ Kaikōura Lunch · Coopers Catch
- Safer, simpler and reliable.
- Good if you want to keep the stop fast and easy.
- 12:30 – 3:00 PMDrive Kaikōura to Christchurch.
- AfternoonCheck in, rest, or do a short shopping hit only if energy remains.
- 6:00 – 7:00 PM🏎️ Indoor fun at Supa Karts.
- DinnerSimple dinner afterwards.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
9
Christchurch · Flexible Day with 2 Modes
Tuesday, 23 June
ChristchurchWeather-flex day
🌡 3–11°C🌅 ~8:10 AM🌇 ~4:58 PM
- 8:30 – 9:30 AM☕ Common start at Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters.
- After breakfastChoose the day’s vibe: indoor artisan browsing or classic yarn + picnic sequence.
🅰️ The Tannery Mode · Indoor + Artisan
- 9:45 AM – 12:30 PM browse The Tannery.
- Great for yarn / fabric feel, unique shops, and the Alchemy Equipment stop.
- 12:00 – 1:00 PM easy lunch inside The Tannery.
- 1:15 – 1:30 PM pick up cake at Divine Cakes, Blenheim Road.
- Return to motel to store cake in fridge.
- 2:30 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes, with optional Decjuba / Glassons / Moochi.
🅱️ Classic Mode · Yarn + Picnic
- 9:45 – 10:30 AM yarn stop at Knit World Christchurch.
- 10:45 – 11:00 AM cake pickup at Divine Cakes.
- Return to motel and store cake before picnic prep.
- 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM shop picnic supplies at New World.
- 12:15 – 1:45 PM picnic at Hagley Park. Parking: Rolleston Ave or Armagh Street.
- 2:15 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes afterwards.
- 5:00 – 6:00 PMCommon reset back at the motel.
- 6:00 – 7:30 PMCommon easy dinner.
- EveningRest. Good night to keep things calm before birthday day.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
10
Jake’s 18th Birthday · Two Complete Paths
Wednesday, 24 June
ChristchurchBirthday
🌡 2–11°C🌅 ~8:11 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:30 – 10:30 AMCommon relaxed start. Sleep in, easy breakfast, no rushing.
- Decision pointChoose one complete birthday experience only. Option A is the thrill day. Option B is the scenic beach ride day without zipline.
🅰️ Option A · Picnic + Zipline Day
- 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM lunch at Smash Palace.
- 12:45 – 2:15 PM return / digest / change into warm outdoor gear.
- 2:15 – 2:45 PM drive to Christchurch Adventure Park Zipline.
- 3:00 – 5:30 PM zipline session.
- 5:30 – 6:15 PM return and reset. This is exactly why dinner was moved later.
- 6:15 – 6:45 PM picnic-style cake moment and family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
🅱️ Option B · Cycle to Beach Day
- 9:45 – 10:15 AM bike setup at Action Bicycle Club.
- Route guide: Action Bicycle Club Sumner Beach Picnic Ride.
- 10:15 – 11:30/11:45 AM ride the Puari ki Rapanui / Coastal Pathway route to Sumner.
- 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM lunch at Joe’s Garage Sumner.
- 12:30 – 1:15 PM beach relax and photos.
- 1:15 – 2:30 PM cycle back.
- 2:30 – 5:30 PM long reset block. No zipline on this version; combining both would feel rushed.
- 6:00 – 6:40 PM cake + family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
- 7:30 PM🍽 Birthday dinner at 5th Street. Later timing gives healthy buffer for either option.
- After dinnerPack for departure and keep the night gentle.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Christchurch
Dep
✈
Departure from Christchurch
Thursday, 25 June
SQ298
- 6:15 AMLeave motel.
- 6:30 AMArrive Christchurch Airport area.
- 7:00 AMReturn rental car to Ezi Car Rental.
- 10:50 AM✈ SQ298 departs Christchurch for Singapore.
v202603251730
🇳🇿
NZ South Island
14 – 25 June 2026 · Family Winter Road Trip
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs → Blenheim → Christchurch
Trip shape: arrive Christchurch, ease into shopping and cycling, head north to Hanmer for hot pools and ATV, continue to Blenheim for market + wineries, then return to Christchurch for flexible Day 9 and Jake’s birthday on Day 10. Day 9 has two weather-proof modes, and Day 10 has two complete birthday paths: Option A = picnic + zipline day, Option B = cycle-to-beach day without zipline.
🛫 Flight Details
SQ 297
Outbound
SIN
19:50
Singapore
Sun 14 Jun
9h 40m · Non-stop
CHC
09:30
Christchurch
Mon 15 Jun
SQ 298
Return
CHC
10:50
Christchurch
Thu 25 Jun
10h 50m · Non-stop
SIN
17:40
Singapore
Thu 25 Jun
🚗 Car Rental
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (or similar)
Ezi Car Rental · Christchurch Airport · Booking Ref 714300435
Rental Window
15–25 JUN
📍 Pick-upMon 15 Jun · 11:30 AM
📍 Drop-offThu 25 Jun · 7:00 AM
📌 LocationChristchurch Airport
🔗 Rental linkezicarrental.co.nz
👤 DriverJack Ling
⏰ Arrival buffer2 hours before pickup
✈ Departure buffer6:15 AM leave motel
🧭 NotesRefuel before airport return
⚙️ Automatic
🔋 Hybrid
💺 5 seats
🧳 Fits family road-trip luggage
🏨 Accommodation
🏙
ChristchurchFirst stay
♨️
Hanmer SpringsMid-trip stay
🍷
BlenheimMarlborough chapter
To Book
Check-in20 Jun 2026
Check-out22 Jun 2026
🌙 2 nights
🏙
ChristchurchFinal stay
To Book
Check-in22 Jun 2026
Check-out25 Jun 2026
🌙 3 nights
| Location | Property | Check-in | Check-out | Nights | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏙 Christchurch | Riccarton Mall Motel | 15 Jun | 18 Jun | 3 | ✓ Confirmed |
| ♨️ Hanmer Springs | Alpine Garden Motel | 18 Jun | 20 Jun | 2 | ✓ Confirmed |
| 🍷 Blenheim | To Book | 20 Jun | 22 Jun | 2 | 📋 To Book |
| 🏙 Christchurch | To Book | 22 Jun | 25 Jun | 3 | 📋 To Book |
🔗 Quick Reference Links
Christchurch Core
Outdoor & Drive Days
Food & Birthday
📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary
Dep
✈
Departure from Singapore
Sunday, 14 June
SQ297
- EveningHead to Changi Airport Terminal 3 for SQ297.
- 7:50 PM✈ Flight departs Singapore for Christchurch.
Day
1
Arrival in Christchurch · Light Landing Day
Monday, 15 June
Christchurch
🌡 6–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 9:30 – 10:15 AMArrive Christchurch, clear immigration and collect bags.
- 10:15 – 11:15 AMAirport buffer for coffee, restroom, SIM setup or simply breathing after the overnight flight.
- 11:30 AM🚗 Pick up rental car from Ezi Car Rental.
- 11:30 AM – 12:00 PMDrive ~10 km to Riccarton. Early check-in if available; otherwise leave bags and head out.
- 12:30 – 5:30 PM🛍 Easy shopping block at Westfield Riccarton. Keep this light and practical on arrival day.
- DinnerSimple casual dinner at Wendy’s Hornby.
- EveningOptional Kmart stop if needed, then early rest.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
2
Christchurch · Core Shopping Day
Tuesday, 16 June
Christchurch
🌡 5–12°C🌅 ~8:05 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:30 AM☕ Breakfast at Addington Coffee Co-op.
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMDrive to outlet area.
- 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM🛍 Main shopping block at Dress Smart Hornby. Best day for practical clothing and outlet brands.
- LunchFlexible lunch inside the outlet.
- 3:00 – 3:40 PMQuick targeted stop at Lululemon Christchurch.
🅰️ Option A · Rest Mode
- 3:45 – 5:30 PM return to motel.
- Best if everyone is already shopped out.
- Keeps energy high for cycling day tomorrow.
🅱️ Option B · Upgrade Shopping
- 3:45 – 5:15 PM continue to Ballantynes.
- Best for mum’s nicer office wear browsing.
- Use only if energy levels are still good.
- 6:00 – 7:15 PM🍽 Dinner at Riverside Market.
- EveningLight evening only. Optional Kmart if something is still missing.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
3
Christchurch · Cycling Day with Easy Motel Dinner
Wednesday, 17 June
Christchurch
🌡 4–11°C🌅 ~8:06 AM🌇 ~4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:15 AM🥐 Breakfast at Grizzly Baked Goods.
- 8:15 – 8:45 AMDrive / move to bike rental.
- 9:00 – 9:20 AM🚴 Bike setup at Action Bicycle Club.
- 9:20 AM – 12:15 PMRide the Hagley Park loop and Avon-side stretches. Flat, scenic and low stress.
- 12:15 – 1:15 PMLunch at Ilex Café inside the Botanic Gardens area.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PMGentle return ride.
- ~3:00 PMReturn bikes.
- 3:00 – 4:00 PM🛒 Grocery stop at New World. Buy pre-cooked meals for tonight, plus milk, bread, ham and cheese for tomorrow’s in-room breakfast.
- 4:30 PM onwardReturn to motel, shower, warm up and settle in.
- Dinner🍱 Eat New World pre-cooked meals in the motel room. Best recovery move before the Hanmer drive.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Riccarton Mall Motel
Day
4
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs
Thursday, 18 June
ChristchurchHanmer
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~115 km⏱ ~2 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:00 – 8:30 AMIn-room breakfast using Day 3 groceries.
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMDrive Christchurch to Amberley.
- 9:30 – 10:00 AM☕ Coffee stop at Little Vintage Espresso.
- 10:00 – 10:15 AMDrive to Waipara.
- 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM🍷 Winery lunch at Black Estate. This is the anchor stop of the drive north.
- 1:30 – 2:45 PMDrive Waipara to Hanmer Springs.
- 2:45 – 3:15 PMCheck in at Alpine Garden Motel.
- 3:30 – 5:45 PM♨️ Relax at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools.
- 7:00 PM🍽 Dinner at MK Restaurant.
🌌 Stargazing Option A
- Stay near the motel if energy is low.
- Easy, short, no extra driving.
🌌 Stargazing Option B
- Drive to Dog Stream area for darker sky.
- Best only if the sky is clear and everyone still has fuel in the tank.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
5
Hanmer Springs · Hike + ATV
Friday, 19 June
Hanmer Springs
🌡 2–10°C🌅 ~8:07 AM🌇 ~4:56 PM
- 8:00 – 8:25 AMSimple breakfast in Hanmer.
- 8:45 – 11:30 AM🥾 Hike the Dog Stream Waterfall Track.
- 11:40 AM – 12:20 PMLunch at The Log Cabin.
- 2:00 – 5:00 PM🏎️ ATV session with Hanmer Springs Attractions.
- 6:30 PM🍽 Casual hearty dinner at Monteith’s Brewery Bar.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Alpine Garden Motel
Day
6
Hanmer → Kaikōura Coast → Blenheim
Saturday, 20 June
HanmerKaikōuraBlenheim
🌡 3–12°C🚗 ~210 km⏱ ~4 hr 15 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:30 AMBreakfast at Powerhouse Café.
- 9:30 – 11:45 AMDrive Hanmer to Kaikōura.
- 11:45 AM – 12:00 PM🦭 Quick stop at Ohau Point Seal Colony.
- 12:20 – 1:20 PMDrive Kaikōura to Seddon.
- 1:20 – 1:40 PM🥪 Quick bite / coffee at The Store @ Seddon.
- 1:40 – 2:05 PMFinal drive into Blenheim.
- 2:15 – 3:45 PM🍷 Winery visit at Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen.
- 6:30 PM🍽 Dinner at Raupo Café.
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
7
Blenheim · Market + Wineries
Sunday, 21 June
Blenheim
🌡 3–12°C🌅 ~8:09 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:00 – 10:30 AM🧺 Browse the Marlborough Farmers’ Market.
- 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM🍷 Winery 1: Cloudy Bay tasting. This should be pre-booked in winter.
- 1:15 – 2:45 PM🍷 Winery 2: Allan Scott for a more relaxed second stop.
- 3:00 – 5:30 PMReturn and rest. Important after two wine stops.
🅰️ Dinner Option · Scotch Wine Bar
- Best if you want to continue the wine-day mood.
- Lighter, more refined evening feel.
🅱️ Dinner Option · Dodson Street Beer Garden
- Best if everyone wants something heartier and more casual.
- Good choice after a full day of tasting.
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
8
Blenheim → Christchurch
Monday, 22 June
BlenheimKaikōuraChristchurch
🌡 3–11°C🚗 ~310 km⏱ ~4 hr 45 min driving + stops
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMLight breakfast.
- 9:00 – 11:00 AMDrive south to Kaikōura.
🅰️ Kaikōura Lunch · Cods & Crayfish
- Best experience lunch.
- Use this if the family wants the more memorable seafood stop.
🅱️ Kaikōura Lunch · Coopers Catch
- Safer, simpler and reliable.
- Good if you want to keep the stop fast and easy.
- 12:30 – 3:00 PMDrive Kaikōura to Christchurch.
- AfternoonCheck in, rest, or do a short shopping hit only if energy remains.
- 6:00 – 7:00 PM🏎️ Indoor fun at Supa Karts.
- DinnerSimple dinner afterwards.
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
9
Christchurch · Flexible Day with 2 Modes
Tuesday, 23 June
ChristchurchWeather-flex day
🌡 3–11°C🌅 ~8:10 AM🌇 ~4:58 PM
- 8:30 – 9:30 AM☕ Common start at Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters.
- After breakfastChoose the day’s vibe: indoor artisan browsing or classic yarn + picnic sequence.
🅰️ The Tannery Mode · Indoor + Artisan
- 9:45 AM – 12:30 PM browse The Tannery.
- Great for yarn / fabric feel, unique shops, and the Alchemy Equipment stop.
- 12:00 – 1:00 PM easy lunch inside The Tannery.
- 1:15 – 1:30 PM pick up cake at Divine Cakes, Blenheim Road.
- Return to motel to store cake in fridge.
- 2:30 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes, with optional Decjuba / Glassons / Moochi.
🅱️ Classic Mode · Yarn + Picnic
- 9:45 – 10:30 AM yarn stop at Knit World Christchurch.
- 10:45 – 11:00 AM cake pickup at Divine Cakes.
- Return to motel and store cake before picnic prep.
- 11:15 AM – 12:00 PM shop picnic supplies at New World.
- 12:15 – 1:45 PM picnic at Hagley Park. Parking: Rolleston Ave or Armagh Street.
- 2:15 – 4:45 PM Ballantynes afterwards.
- 5:00 – 6:00 PMCommon reset back at the motel.
- 6:00 – 7:30 PMCommon easy dinner.
- EveningRest. Good night to keep things calm before birthday day.
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
10
Jake’s 18th Birthday · Two Complete Paths
Wednesday, 24 June
ChristchurchBirthday
🌡 2–11°C🌅 ~8:11 AM🌇 ~4:59 PM
- 9:30 – 10:30 AMCommon relaxed start. Sleep in, easy breakfast, no rushing.
- Decision pointChoose one complete birthday experience only. Option A is the thrill day. Option B is the scenic beach ride day without zipline.
🅰️ Option A · Picnic + Zipline Day
- 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM lunch at Smash Palace.
- 12:45 – 2:15 PM return / digest / change into warm outdoor gear.
- 2:15 – 2:45 PM drive to Christchurch Adventure Park Zipline.
- 3:00 – 5:30 PM zipline session.
- 5:30 – 6:15 PM return and reset. This is exactly why dinner was moved later.
- 6:15 – 6:45 PM picnic-style cake moment and family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
🅱️ Option B · Cycle to Beach Day
- 9:45 – 10:15 AM bike setup at Action Bicycle Club.
- 10:15 – 11:30/11:45 AM ride the Puari ki Rapanui / Coastal Pathway route to Sumner.
- 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM lunch at Joe’s Garage Sumner.
- 12:30 – 1:15 PM beach relax and photos.
- 1:15 – 2:30 PM cycle back.
- 2:30 – 5:30 PM long reset block. No zipline on this version; combining both would feel rushed.
- 6:00 – 6:40 PM cake + family photos.
- 7:30 PM birthday dinner at 5th Street.
- 7:30 PM🍽 Birthday dinner at 5th Street. Later timing gives healthy buffer for either option.
- After dinnerPack for departure and keep the night gentle.
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Christchurch
Dep
✈
Departure from Christchurch
Thursday, 25 June
SQ298
- 6:15 AMLeave motel.
- 6:30 AMArrive Christchurch Airport area.
- 7:00 AMReturn rental car to Ezi Car Rental.
- 10:50 AM✈ SQ298 departs Christchurch for Singapore.
the below are enhanced Chatgpt versions:
🇳🇿 NZ South Island Itinerary (Light Update Version)
Day 9 — Christchurch
Decision: Tannery (rain/indoor) | Picnic (good weather)
Option A — Tannery
Visit Tannery: https://www.tannery.co.nz
Lunch inside, cake pickup after.
Option B — Picnic
Knit World → Cake pickup → New World → Hagley Park picnic
Day 10 — Jake’s Birthday 🎂
Decision: Zipline (adventure) | Beach Ride (relax)
Option A — Zipline
Lunch: Smash Palace https://thesmashpalace.co.nz
Zipline: Christchurch Adventure Park https://zipchristchurch.com
⭐ Book ahead
Option B — Beach Ride
Cycle to Sumner → Lunch: Joe’s Garage https://www.joes.co.nz/sumner/menu/before-5pm
Pack: Warm layers, gloves (cycling / zipline)
Dinner: 5th Street (7:30 PM) ⭐ Confirmed
Key Bookings
- Cloudy Bay Winery ⭐ Book
- Supa Karts ⭐ Book
- 5th Street Dinner ⭐ Confirmed
10 day itinerary v2026-03-18
ai notes
info curated with chatgpt, formated with claude
🇳🇿
NZ South Island
15 – 24 June 2026 · Family Getaway
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs → Kaikōura → Blenheim → Christchurch
🛫 Flight Details
SQ 297
Economy (W)
SIN
19:50
Singapore
Sun 14 Jun
9h 40m · Non-stop
CHC
09:30
Christchurch
Mon 15 Jun
SQ 298
Economy (H)
CHC
10:50
Christchurch
Thu 25 Jun
10h 50m · Non-stop
SIN
17:40
Singapore
Thu 25 Jun
🏨 Accommodation
🏙
ChristchurchFirst Stay
Riccarton Mall Motel
Check-in15 Jun 2026
Check-out18 Jun 2026
🌙 3 nights
♨️
Hanmer Springs
To be confirmed
Check-in18 Jun 2026
Check-out20 Jun 2026
🌙 2 nights
🍷
BlenheimMarlborough
To be confirmed
Check-in20 Jun 2026
Check-out22 Jun 2026
🌙 2 nights
🏙
ChristchurchFinal Stay
Riccarton or city hotel
Check-in22 Jun 2026
Check-out25 Jun 2026
🌙 3 nights
| Location | Check-in | Check-out | Nights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏙 Christchurch | 15 Jun | 18 Jun | 3 |
| ♨️ Hanmer Springs | 18 Jun | 20 Jun | 2 |
| 🍷 Blenheim | 20 Jun | 22 Jun | 2 |
| 🏙 Christchurch | 22 Jun | 25 Jun | 3 |
📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day
1
Christchurch — Arrival
Monday, 15 June
Christchurch
🌡 6–12°C🌅 8:05 AM🌇 4:55 PM
- 9:40 – 10:30 AMArrive, immigration & baggage collection
- 10:30 – 11:15 AMRental car pickup
- 11:30 AM – 12:30 PMCheck-in — Riccarton Mall Motel
- 12:30 – 1:15 PMLunch
- 1:15 – 4:30 PMShopping — Macpac & Kathmandu @ Riccarton
- 5:30 – 6:30 PMDinner
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
2
Christchurch — Chocolate, Shopping & Karting
Tuesday, 16 June
Christchurch
🌡 5–12°C🌅 8:05 AM🌇 4:55 PM
- 7:30 – 8:15 AM☕ Breakfast — Addington Coffee Co-op
- 8:20 – 9:00 AM🍫 Chocolate visit — Hogarth Chocolate
- 9:30 AM – 2:30 PMOutlet shopping — Dress Smart Hornby
- 3:00 – 3:40 PMLululemon
- 3:45 – 6:15 PMEarly dinner — Riverside Market
- 7:00 – 8:30 PM🏎️ Karting — Supakarts Indoor Raceway
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
3
Christchurch — Cycling & Coffee
Wednesday, 17 June
Christchurch
🌡 4–11°C🌅 8:06 AM🌇 4:55 PM
- 9:00 – 9:30 AMBike pickup — Pushbikes Christchurch
- 9:30 – 11:00 AM🚴 Cycle — Hagley Park + Avon River
- 11:00 AM – 12:15 PMBrunch — Unknown Chapter Coffee Roasters
- 12:15 – 2:30 PMFree time / rest
- 2:30 – 4:30 PM🏎️ Karting backup (or 6:00 – 8:00 PM)
- EveningDinner
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
4
Christchurch → Hanmer Springs
Thursday, 18 June
CHCHanmer
🌡 3–11°C🌅 8:06 AM🌇 4:56 PM
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMBreakfast
- 9:00 – 10:15 AM🚗 Drive
- 10:15 – 11:00 AMLunch stop — Little Vintage Espresso or Nor’Wester Cafe
- 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM🚗 Drive to Hanmer
- 12:00 – 1:00 PMCheck-in & settle
- 3:30 – 6:00 PM♨️ Thermal pools
- 6:30 – 7:30 PMDinner
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Hanmer Springs
Day
5
Hanmer — Hike, ATVs & Thermal Pools
Friday, 19 June
Hanmer Springs
🌡 2–10°C🌅 8:07 AM🌇 4:56 PM
- 9:00 – 11:00 AM🥾 Hike — Dog Stream Track
- 11:30 AM – 12:30 PMLunch
- 1:30 – 3:00 PM🛻 ATV Quad Bikes — Hanmer Springs Attractions
- 3:30 – 6:00 PM♨️ Thermal pools
- 6:30 – 7:30 PMDinner
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Hanmer Springs
Day
6
Hanmer → Kaikōura → Blenheim
Saturday, 20 June
HanmerKaikōuraBlenheim
🌡 5–12°C🌅 8:07 AM🌇 4:56 PM
- 8:00 – 8:30 AMBreakfast
- 8:30 – 10:45 AM🚗 Drive to Kaikōura
- 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM🦞 Lunch — Coopers Catch Kaikoura
- 12:00 – 1:30 PM🌊 Walk — Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway + Lighthouse
- 1:30 – 4:00 PM🚗 Drive to Blenheim
- 4:00 – 5:30 PMCheck-in & rest
- 6:00 – 7:30 PMDinner
🛏 Night 1 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
7
Blenheim — Relaxed Winery Day 🍷
Sunday, 21 June
Blenheim
🌡 4–12°C🌅 8:08 AM🌇 4:57 PM
- 9:00 – 10:00 AM🧺 Marlborough Farmers’ Market
- 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM🍷 Winery 1 — Cloudy Bay Cellar Door (tasting)
- 12:15 – 1:30 PMLight lunch
- 2:00 – 3:30 PM🍷 Winery 2 — Wither Hills Restaurant (tasting)
- 3:45 – 5:30 PM🌿 Rest
- EveningSimple dinner / takeaway / wine in
🛏 Night 2 of 2 — Blenheim
Day
8
Blenheim → Christchurch
Monday, 22 June
BlenheimCHC
🌡 4–11°C🌅 8:08 AM🌇 4:57 PM
- 8:30 – 9:00 AMBreakfast
- 9:00 – 11:45 AM🚗 Drive south
- 11:45 AM – 12:15 PM🧀 Cheese stop — Kaikōura Cheese
- 1:15 – 2:15 PMLunch — Cheviot Trust Hotel
- 2:15 – 4:00 PM🚗 Drive to Christchurch
- 4:30 – 5:30 PM☕ Coffee — Addington Coffee Co-op (optional)
- 6:00 – 7:30 PMDinner
🛏 Night 1 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
9
Christchurch — Cycling & Picnic
Tuesday, 23 June
Christchurch
🌡 5–12°C🌅 8:08 AM🌇 4:58 PM
- 9:00 – 9:30 AMBreakfast
- 9:30 – 10:00 AMBike pickup — Pushbikes Christchurch
- 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM🚴 Cycle — Hagley Park
- 12:00 – 1:00 PMReturn bikes + lunch
- 3:45 – 5:15 PM🧺 Picnic — Hagley Park (golden hour ~4:15 PM)
- 5:30 – 7:00 PMDinner
🛏 Night 2 of 3 — Christchurch
Day
10
Christchurch — Last Day 🎂
Wednesday, 24 June
Christchurch
🌡 5–12°C🌅 8:08 AM🌇 4:58 PM
- 9:30 – 11:30 AMEasy morning
- 12:00 – 1:00 PMLunch
- 1:30 – 4:30 PM🎿 Skyline Luge Christchurch
- 6:30 PM🎉 Dinner — 5th Street
- 8:00 PM🎂 Birthday cake!
🛏 Night 3 of 3 — Christchurch
Dep
✈
Departure — Christchurch to Singapore
Thursday, 25 June
CHC → SIN
- MorningHead to Christchurch International Airport
- 10:50 AM✈️ SQ298 departs Christchurch · Arrives Singapore 17:40
10 day itinerary v2026-03-04
Swapped Blenheim and Hanmer so we can visit Marborough markets in Blenheim on Sunday.
ai notes
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