South Island Spectacular
New Zealands South Island is a true scenic delight, from the magnificent alpine scenery as you ride the famous TranzAlpine train, to the crystal blue white of the Franz Josef glacier. The magical beauty of Lake Wakatipu contrasts with the all action resort of Queenstown and complements the outstanding beauty of the Fiordland National Park and stunning Milford Sound. Stay in New Zealands oldest city, Dunedin, visit Larnach Castle, which wouldn’t be out of place in Scotland, and marvel at the outstanding beauty of snow-capped Mount Cook and the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo.
Our Opinion
A great tour that includes all of South Islands main sights and a good mix of elements – travel by coach, train and cruise.
Tour Highlights
- Christchurch
- Franz Josef
- Queenstown
- Te Anau
- Milford Sound
- Dunedin
- Mount Cook
- Lake Tekapo
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Christchurch
On arrival into Christchurch airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Meet your fellow travellers this evening. Overnight at the Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport, dinner included.
Day 2: Christchurch – Franz Josef
This morning board the TranzAlpine and travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges. Board your coach at Arthurs Pass and travel to Hokitika, famous for its Greenstone before continuing to Franz Josef. Overnight stay at the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier with breakfast and dinner included.
Day 3: Franz Josef – Queenstown
See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south along the West Coast to Fox Glacier and via the Haast Pass to picturesque Queenstown, a year round resort situated on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu. Stay for 2 nights at the Mercure Queenstown Resort with breakfast and dinner included.
Day 4: Queenstown
Today is a free day for you to enjoy everything that Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu have to offer. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station where you are treated to the best of New Zealands high country cuisine.
Day 5: Queenstown – Te Anau
Travel to Arrowtown, an old gold mining village, then on to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland nestling on the southern shores of Lake Te Anau. Stay for 2 nights at the Distinction Luxmore Hotel with breakfast and dinner included.
Day 6: Te Anau – Milford Sound – Te Anau
A day of stunning scenic beauty today as you depart Te Anau for Milford Sound and a cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy a picnic lunch on-board. This afternoon return to Te Anau where some free time is available. Lunch included today.
Day 7: Te Anau – Dunedin
Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Dunedin known as the Edinburgh of the South and enjoy an informative city tour followed by some free time to explore at leisure. Tonight enjoy a Scottish evening with bagpipes, great food, a special Haggis Ceremony and gift. Stay overnight at the Scenic Dunedin City Hotel including breakfast and dinner.
Day 8: Dunedin – Twizel
Travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle where you will hear of its tragic and scandalous history on a guided tour. Next visit Glenfalloch Restaurant for a delightful morning tea. Farewell Dunedin and travel to Oamaru famous for its limestone. Follow the Waitaki River and see Lake Benmore as you travel to Twizel for your overnight stay at the MacKenzie Country Inn including breakfast and dinner.
Day 9: Twizel – Mount Cook – Christchurch
This morning you will be able to marvel at the stunning beauty of snow-capped Mount Cook, New Zealands highest peak. Continue to Lake Tekapo and view the brilliant turquoise water. Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and see the Sheep Dog Statue before continuing to Christchurch. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with your new found friends. Overnight stay at the Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport including breakfast and dinner.
Day 10: Depart Christchurch
You will be transferred to the airport for your homeward flight.
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