Alambir from the Christchurch Branch
My favourite place to eat out at is the Christchurch Riverside Market because you can find all types of food there, whether it is Indian, Mexican, Japanese or Chinese, you can find everything there!
Road Trip Christchurch to Blenheim Drive: 17 Unforgettable Stops
The Christchurch to Blenheim trip is a relatively short one at 308 km, but it still offers a stunning and varied experience you won’t ever forget. This coastal road trip will take you through world-famous vineyards and show you some of the best sights the South Island has to offer.
You’ll find plenty of famous stops and hidden gems on your way to Blenheim. We’ve prepared this complete guide to let you know where to go and how to get the most out of your time in Marlborough.
Need a ride for your trip? Book a hire car from the GO Rentals branch at Christchurch Airport! We have a wide range of rental vehicles for you to choose from, making it easy to find the perfect vehicle for your self-driving holiday.
Don’t want to bother with a return trip to Christchurch? With a one-way rental, you can keep on road tripping to our Nelson branch and drop your vehicle off there. It’s the perfect way to experience complete Kiwi freedom on your journey.
Quick Stats
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Trip distance: 308 km
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Days: 1-3
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Car recommendation: Large cars/SUVs or Hybrid vehicle
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Suitable for: Beach and nature lovers, hikers, families and couples
Road Trip Map
How long is the Christchurch to Blenheim drive?
A straight trip from Christchurch to Blenheim is 308 km via the SH1. Without stopping, it should take you approximately 4 hours to reach your destination. However, doing the entire trip without taking any breaks is not recommended.
Our itinerary will give you plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs while you’re sightseeing. We recommend giving yourself 1 to 3 days to explore everything your journey has to offer.
The road will also take you past many of New Zealand’s most famous wineries. If you intend to participate in any wine tours, you should book nearby accommodations and arrange transport to and from the wineries.
Christchurch to Blenheim Tips from our Local Staff!
Kia Ora from our award-winning employees! We are passionate about New Zealand and have put together our insider local tips to GO the extra mile for our customers!
Olga from the Christchurch Branch
Akaroa is definitely our favourite family spot – it is only 80 km away from Christchurch, so perfect for a day trip, and it has it all – stunning landscapes, spectacular harbour, authentic restaurants offering French and local cuisine (make sure you visit famous Akaroa Fish & chips!), boutique shops & galleries. The dolphin cruise is a must attraction too!
Duyen from HQ Marketing Team
One of my most unforgettable South Island experiences was swimming up close with dusky dolphins in Kaikoura. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Tina from the Nelson Branch
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is an aviation museum located at the Omaka airfield, 5km from the centre of Blenheim. There are some amazing exhibitions from World War 1 and World War 2. It's one of the places we visit often when we visit Blenheim. Also, the Omaka cafe has amazing food, along with a souvenir shop that also has plenty of seating inside and out. Worth the visit.
1 Arrive in Christchurch
The South Island's largest city has plenty to do and see before you set out on your journey to Blenheim. Here are some of the places you must see while you’re still in town.
Avon River
The serene and beautiful Otakaro/Avon River flows straight through the city centre. The river is most famous for punting boats, but other cruise options are available. The Avon flows right by Christchurch’s most famous areas, such as Mona Vale Garden Park, Riccarton Bush, and Victoria Square.
Enjoy a calm, tranquil start to your time in Christchurch as you travel the city by the Avon River.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens offer over 21 hectares of greenery and more than 10 different gardens to enjoy. Founded from the planting of a single oak tree in 1863, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens has been delighting locals and tourists for over 150 years.
With special exhibits dedicated to local fauna and handcrafted gardening plots, these beautiful gardens are an unforgettable experience you won’t soon forget. Be sure to visit the gift shop and check out the cafe while you’re there!
Canterbury Museum
See the natural and historic treasures of the local region for yourself at the Canterbury Museum. Founded in 1870, the museum features a collection of exhibits and priceless artifacts that help tell the complete story of the Canterbury/Waitaha region.
The museum also features first-hand collections of the Antarctic Expeditions of Robert Falcon Scott, as two scientists on his journey were actually workers from the Canterbury Museum.
Riverside Market
The Riverside Market was founded to help restore Christchurch after the devastating February 2011 earthquakes. Originally meant as a temporary solution to bring back life to the CBD, the markets have since become a permanent mainstay representing the spirit of the region.
You’ll find plenty of quality local produce and fresh food, as well as craft beer, coffee, ice cream, cured meats, and more in the 40-plus stalls across the market. Be sure to bring your appetite!
2 Christchurch to Kaikoura (180 km - 2 hours 20 minutes)
Once you’ve had an amazing time in Christchurch, head onto the SH1 to make your way towards Kaikoura. You’ll find a beautiful view of rolling hills with occasional glimpses of the ocean on your way.
Alpine Jet Thrills
Just a short drive from Christchurch’s CBD you’ll find this thrilling adventure in the Waimakariri Regional Park. Under the hands of a skilled driver, you’ll be tumbling and soaring across the lake at outrageous speeds, or taking a peaceful safari tour across the river.
Alpine Jet Thrills also offers boat rides, helicopter tours, horseback riding, and even new laser clay shooting.
Cave Rock/Tuawera
This historic landmark is as imposing as it is beautiful. With a Maori name meaning ‘cut down as if by fire’, the cave is said to be the remains of a great whale sent to curse the people of Turakipo.
Today, you can see the cave formation in person, and learn the full story of Tuawera yourself as you look over the beautiful ocean view.
Pegasus Bay
This family-owned winery is known for its exquisite wines and breathtaking vineyard views. Pegasus Bay is world-renowned for its quality wine, and a wine tour is your chance to sample its signature blends with an educated and passionate guide.
Sample a quality Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir, and try a delicious charcuterie board designed to compliment your wine on your tour.
Waipara Valley
Waipara Valley isn’t just inspiringly beautiful to look at. The region is also home to over 7 incredible wineries offering New Zealand staples like high-quality Pinot Noir and Riesling. Enjoy the signature taste of New Zealand's most famous wineries, from Greystones Wine & Restaurant to the Waipara Winehouse.
If you’re looking to stretch your legs or experience the outdoors, Waipara also offers bike paths, a beautiful hike, and the disused Iron Ridge Quarry Park to explore.
3 Kaikoura to Blenheim (128 km – 1 hour 40 minutes)
With mountains on one side of you and distinct marshlands on the other, you’ll find plenty of stunning scenery as you head back on the SH1 to Blenheim.
Whale Watch Kaikoura
Kaikoura is the whale-watching capital of New Zealand, and you’re likely to see something extraordinary at any time of year. From sperm whale pods to fur seals, wandering albatross and dusky dolphins, you won’t regret taking a trip with Whale Watch Kaikoura.
It’s best to plan your trip in advance if there is something specific you want to see. Typically, the best time for humpback whale watching is June through to July, while orcas are more common from December to March.
Kaikoura Seal Colony
Drive past South Bay towards the edge of the Kaikoura Peninsula to find hundreds of wild seals at Point Kean. The Kaikoura Seal Colony is home to 3 different kinds of seals: the New Zealand fur seal, the leopard seal, and the southern elephant seal. You can also find the Peninsula Walkway nearby, and tour groups for kayaking right next to the colony.
Please be sure to follow the local authorities and tour operators' guidelines while you’re in the area.
Fyffe House
The Fyffe House is the perfect place to take a short break and enjoy a breathtaking seaside view. This heritage site is the oldest surviving building in the Kaikoura region and the last remnant of the once widespread whaling industry in New Zealand.
The house includes a self-guided tour experience. Learn more about the history of the land, from the arrival of the region's first Maori settlers to the three families who once made Fyffe House their home.
T.S.S Waverly
You’ll find this old steamer on the shores just before you reach Blenheim. This signature landmark of the Marlborough region was built in 1883 and transported coal and other supplies across the entire country before finally being dismantled in 1928.
The Waverly is a great stop for history lovers. During sunsets, the ship adds a striking contrast to the setting sun, perfect for a photo opp.
4 Things to do in Blenheim
It’s time to take a rest from the road and enjoy what the city has to offer! Blenheim is famous for its quality local wineries and outstanding parks, museums, and exhibitions.
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
Step into New Zealand’s rich history by visiting the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre. The centre is one of the largest private collections of World War I and II aircrafts in the world. You can also find thrilling, tragic, and fascinating stories of aviation during World War II in the ‘Dangerous Skies’ exhibition.
While you won’t find Middle-Earth in Blenheim, you can see the director's aviation collection! The ‘Knights of the Sky’ exhibition was created by Lord of the Rings director Peter Jackson and features mannequins designed by Weta Workshops to enhance the experience.
Pollard Park
Pollard Park offers over 24.6 hectares of wooded parklands to explore, including a tranquil stream and a golf course. Take a moment to relax from your journey with a picnic or a leisurely stroll through the Churchill Glade.
For an even more relaxed stroll, the park also features more than three dedicated garden areas, perfect for botanists and nature lovers.
Marlborough Museum
You’ll find the Marlborough Museum at Brayshaw Heritage Park. The Museum was created in the 1950s by Norm Brayshaw so he could safely house and preserve his collection of artifacts for future generations.
The museum doesn’t just chronicle the incredible history of the Maori landing in Te Pokohiwi in 1250 AD. It also details the history and importance of the wine industry in the Marlborough region.
Marlborough Sounds
A short 30-minute drive away from Blenheim, you’ll find the town of Picton, and the simply astonishing sight of 1500 km of ancient sunken river valleys flooded by the Pacific Ocean. The Marlborough Sounds are the region's most scenic playground, a natural relic just begging to be explored.
The Sounds offer kayaking and hiking tours, camping sights, and more. Several islands are also predator-free sanctuaries with plenty of native wildlife.
Christchurch to Blenheim road trip tips?
The highway from Christchurch to Blenheim is well-maintained and easy to travel, but it’s understandable to be nervous on unfamiliar roads. Here are some tips to keep in mind to make your trip easier:
Christchurch to Blenheim Through the Lense of our Customers
Our Snap Happy Photo Competition has customers revv’d up about how far they can go in a modern car hire in New Zealand! Submit a cool photo of your GO travel memory and be in with a chance to WIN up to $500 back from your booking too.
Chris
Beautiful views from around us. GO Rentals did us proud. Took us places where we wouldn't have gone. Great week exploring the South Island.
Chayan
We travelled to every nook and corner, and it was only possible because of the car provided by GO Rentals.
Denise
We rented an environmentally-friendly electric car from GO Rentals to visit the beautiful Kaikoura. It's great to be able to easily rent a car with a smaller carbon footprint which may in turn help to preserve the beautiful natural landscapes of New Zealand. We hope to be back one day to explore more of New Zealand too!
Kaye
A picture of the beautiful place we stayed in. Plus, a side view of the great Toyota rental we had. Very good value for money, very economical, and a good run about for the week. Took us to Blenheim and back and didn't even use 1 full tank of fuel.
One-Way Rentals Fueling Road Trips
The best part of a Kiwi road trip is the freedom of the open road. With GO One-Way Rentals, you can gear up for an epic South Island trip, without the stress of returning to your starting point in time for drop-off. Pick up a one-way Christchurch to Nelson hire car for your drive from Christchurch to Blenheim and continue the road trip vibes to our Nelson branch for drop-off.
One-way rentals are a great way to maximise your trip before you have to step on the brakes.
Get GOing on a South Island Adventure
The Christchurch to Blenheim road trip offers outstanding vineyards, breathtaking views, beautiful beaches, and a rich history you’ll never forget.
The highways and roads of New Zealand's South Island may be slightly unfamiliar or daunting for you. That’s why we work hard to make sure your journey goes as smoothly as possible.
We offer 24-hour roadside assistance and basic car insurance with each of our rental cars and Total Road Care package. Our Total Road Care Package also covers government road taxes, and the cost of any toll roads you may drive on. That means you can focus completely on having a great New Zealand adventure.
Why not try our GO Rentals Trip Planner to make your drive even smoother? We’ll help you make the perfect itinerary for you and your travel buddies.
Book with us today and get GOing on the trip of a lifetime with GO Rentals!
