Then it’s on to the Okarito Lagoon, alive with the calls of over 70 unique species of birds. Shimmering turquoise waters wreathed with lush native bush make a sight to remember. Today begins with a visit to the Hokitika Gorge, one of the West Coast’s most stunning spots. Westport - Cape Foulwind Walkway & Lighthouse.Charleston - Nile River Gorge Rainforest Train Ride.Punakaiki - Pancake Rocks & Blowholes Walk.With very little light pollution, the stargazing in Kumara is absolutely out of this world (literally!). Once the sun has gone down, be sure to look up. Just behind your hotel, you’ll find dazzling glow worms lighting up old mineshafts. On arrival, settle into your hotel, then head out to meet the town’s brightest residents. At high tide the sea is forced through blowholes in the limestone to burst metres into the air – it’s an entertaining sight! Continue to Kumara, a former goldrush town with an intriguing history (this little place was the home of New Zealand’s longest serving Prime Minister!). These layers of fossilised animals and plants, formed over 30 million years ago, were thrust above the surface by the moving earth and sculpted by wind and water. Next up is Punakaiki, a town with less than 100 residents, but famed for its so-called Pancake Rocks. Experience the spectacular wilderness of the Nile River Canyon in Paparoa National Park. ‘The Nile River Rainforest Train’ recreates a bygone era where bush trams once prevailed. The headland is home to a fur seal breeding colony so keep your eyes peeled, they can easily blend in with the rocks! Continue to Charleston this morning to join a train ride in open carriages through primeval rain forest. Start your day with a stop at the wild Cape Foulwind and admire incredible views of the mountains and rugged coastline. Find details of the meeting point in your Essential Trip Information. If you are going to be late, please let an Intrepid representative or your travel agent know. It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting this morning as we will be checking insurance and emergency contact details at this time. Lewis Pass - Hanmer Hot Springs - from - NZD38.Reefton - Town Tour with Local Story Teller including Billy Tea, Scones & Honey.Finally, drive on to the town of Westport and perhaps round off the day with group dinner. Manuka leaf is introduced into the billy to produce a rich and sweet black tea which will be served with scones with manuka honey. Step back in time as tea is prepared for you on the forge. You'll even have the opportunity to try your luck at gold panning. Take a town walking tour with a local story-teller, learning about its gold mining past. Next up, travel to Reefton, a tiny town that punches above its size. Check out the natural hot pools surrounded by greenery as the snow dusted peaks of the Southern Alps look on. After your meeting, it’s time to hit the road, first heading to Hanmer Springs in the Lewis Pass national reserve. Welcome to your Intrepid exploration of the South Island! Your adventure begins in Christchurch, where a welcome meeting will take place at 8am for you to meet up with your local leader and fellow travellers.
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