Many people choose to travel New Zealand by campervan or rental car, which provides the most flexibility by being able to go exactly where you want and see some of New Zealand's finest treasures. Along these stretches of road, you're likely to pass by some wonderful opportunities - unless you're aware of them. This article will take you along the stretch of road between Kaikoura and Dunedin on the South Island from north to south.
Stop 1: 26km north of Kaikoura at Ohau Waterfall. This is a pretty unique spot where you can see a fur seal colony at the waterfall. However, due to recent popularity in visiting this site, the seals are often harassed by visitors. So, please don't use your flash on your camera, do not feed them, and do not attempt to touch them. Let them have their space.
Stop 2: Kaikoura. Check out the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway for a few hours of walking along the cliffs. At low tide, there are some nice tidal pools and a walk that takes you back along the rocky coast. After your walk, check out the very reasonably priced sheep shearing show at The Point. If you stay in Kaikoura for the day, it's worth checking out some of the world's best whale watching.
Stop 2: International Antarctic Center - Christchurch. This is a nice attraction right on the main road you'll be on travelling from Kaikoura to Dunedin. It's worth a stop, but leave plenty of time. There's lots to see here!
Stop 3: Oamaru. There is a lovely blue penguin colony here. If you plan on seeing the penguins come ashore, you'll want to spend the night in Oamaru since the Blue Penguin center is only open in the evenings when they come in for the night. If you're just passing through Oamaru, it's worth turning off the highway and going to the town center, which has several free museums and art galleries as well as a unique architechture you only get to see in Oamaru.
Stop 4: Moeraki. The small fishing village of Moeraki lies a short distance from the main road and has a fabulous restaurant, Fleur's Place, with fresh fish to satisfy your tastebuds. Before you reach the turn off for the town of Moeraki, there is a turn towards the coast which will lead you to a parking lot to see the Moeraki Boulders. If you want to go to the visitor center/gift shop you'll pay a few dollars to use their steps to go down to the boulders. If you'd rather walk 100m more and not pay the $2, you can go straight to the parking lot and enjoy a lovely beach walk.
Stop 5: Shag Point. About 12km further south from Moeraki, you'll come to a left hand turn off which takes you a few kilometers down the road to a seal colony with another great New Zealand view.
That should keep you occupied on your journey and help you see a few fun things along the lonely road.
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