This South Island scenic touring route forms a triangle between the Waipara Valley wine region, the whale-watching mecca that is Kaikoura and the hot springs spa town of Hanmer Springs.

Nestled halfway between Picton and Christchurch, Kaikoura enjoys a stunning backdrop of towering mountains, however this coastal town is world famous for the mighty Sperm Whale that can be viewed throughout the year by boat or small plane.

After leaving Kaikoura you drive inland along State Highway 70 and follow the signs leading to Hanmer Springs.

Hanmer Springs is internationally recognised for the thermal pools complex in the main part of the township. Of course there is more to Hanmer Springs then just soaking in a hot thermal pool, this alpine retreat offers plenty of outdoor activities, including horse trekking, forest walks, mountain biking, golf, fishing and ski-ing at nearby Mt Lyford.

The bottom of the triangle is located 45 minutes North of Christchurch and this area is called the Waipara Valley, which is known as an up-and-coming wine region with plenty of lovely vineyards and award winning wineries with restaurants.