Travel Diary
Stories from the Road
Welcome to the Opal Charters Travel Diary — a collection of memorable moments, scenic journeys, and behind-the-scenes glimpses from our adventures across Christchurch and the South Island. From breathtaking landscapes to hidden local gems, this is where we share the stories that make each trip special. Whether you're planning your own journey or simply dreaming of your next escape, we hope these snapshots inspire and inform.
Westland Glaciers
The two mighty glaciers of Fox and Franz Joseph, unsurpassed views of New Zealand’s two highest mountains, Aoraki-Mount Cook and Mount Tasman and the lowland rainforest of Westland National Park and Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area. Add to this, unique wildlife and numerous pristine Lakes including the world-famous mirror lake, Lake Matheson.
Greymouth & Punakaiki
One of the most spectacular coastal highways in New Zealand, that leads to Punakaiki at the foot of the Paparoa National Park. Punakaiki is famous for it’s Pancake Rocks, a unique natural attraction. Layers of water sculpted limestone, resembling stacks of pancakes with water worn passages through which jets of seawater are forced in high seas.
Cardrona Valley
The Crown Range route from Wanaka to Queenstown is the highest main road in New Zealand at 1121 metres travels up the Cardrona Valley, an area that was abuzz during the Otago gold rush of the 1860s.
The Cardrona Hotel (Est. 1863) is one of New Zealands oldest hotels and is a great place to stop for a meal and a pint. They also offer quality accommodation.