Spotlight on Southern New Zealand
Mountains and glaciers and lakes, oh my!
Discover the unrivaled beauty of New Zealand's Southern Island on this 8-night adventure from Christchurch to Fiordland National Park! Enjoy stays in Omarama, Dunedin, Te Anau, Queenstown, Franz Josef Glacier, and Christchurch! With a knowledgeable driver there to guide you throughout your journey, you'll spend less time finding your way, and more time seizing each day.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Christchurch (CHC)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- Accommodation in hotels listed or similar:
- 1 night in Christchurch at the Ibis Hotel Christchurch
- 1 night in Omarama at the Heritage Gateway Hotel
- 1 night in Dunedin at the Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
- 1 night in Te Anau at the Distinction Luxmore Hotel
- 2 nights in Queenstown at the Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown
- 1 night in Franz Josef at the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
- 1 night in Christchurch at the Ibis Hotel Christchurch
- Guided sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Christchurch city tour
- View the Church of the Good Shepherd and Mount Cook National Park
- Visit to Waitaki Hydro Power Scheme
- Milford Sound cruise
- Lake Wakatipu cruise
- TranzAlpine train from Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch
- Dinner & show at Walter Peak High Country Farm
- Breakfast daily and 5 dinners
- Services of an experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
- Travel by luxury coach
Helpful links for travel to New Zealand:
Great Ways to Explore
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Feast your eyes on Mount Cook National Park!
- Enjoy cruises through Milford Sound and Lake Wakatipu.
-
Take a scenic train ride through the Southern Alps, from Arthur's Pass to Christchurch!
-
Visit the old gold mining village of Arrowtown.
-
With an experienced travel director, included tours, and unique dinners, this vacation is no work and all play.
This is an escorted tour. It’s perfect if you prefer not to do your own driving and want to see as many sights as you can during your vacation.
Embark on the trip of a lifetime! Grab your camera and get ready to see snow-capped mountains, vast glaciers, lush rainforests, and bright blue lakes. You'll also experience vibrant cities and old-world villages along the journey. With an experienced guide leading the way, all you'll have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the adventure!
Your vacation begins in Christchurch, known for its English heritage and flower-filled gardens. Enjoy a city sightseeing tour, then venture to the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. Feast your eyes on beautiful Mount Cook National Park, then journey along the Waitaki River! Explore the city of Dunedin, also known as the "Edinburgh of the South," with its Scottish heritage and Victorian/Edwardian architecture.
Next, venture to the breathtaking landscapes of Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound! Enjoy stops at Mirror Lakes, the Chasm, Bowen Falls, and Stirling Falls, and drive through Homer Tunnel to the Cleddau Valley!
Take advantage of some free time to explore Queenstown, then embark on an evening cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard New Zealand's oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw! You'll also indulge in a gourmet BBQ Dinner at Walter Peaks' Colonel's Homestead, where you'll learn all about high-country farm life.
Before returning to Christchurch, you'll spend a night in Franz Josef Glacier, home to jaw-dropping glacial scenery and tiny villages. Experience the picturesque beaches of Hokitika, then visit a local factory and watch master carvers create jewelry and art from locally sourced greenstone and jade! Enjoy the thrill of a stunning train ride through the Southern Alps, from Arthur's Pass back to Christchurch, where you'll spend your final night.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Christchurch (CHC)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- Accommodation in hotels listed or similar:
- 1 night in Christchurch at the Ibis Hotel Christchurch
- 1 night in Omarama at the Heritage Gateway Hotel
- 1 night in Dunedin at the Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
- 1 night in Te Anau at the Distinction Luxmore Hotel
- 2 nights in Queenstown at the Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown
- 1 night in Franz Josef at the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
- 1 night in Christchurch at the Ibis Hotel Christchurch
- Guided sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Christchurch city tour
- View the Church of the Good Shepherd and Mount Cook National Park
- Visit to Waitaki Hydro Power Scheme
- Milford Sound cruise
- Lake Wakatipu cruise
- TranzAlpine train from Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch
- Dinner & show at Walter Peak High Country Farm
- Breakfast daily and 5 dinners
- Services of an experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
- Travel by luxury coach
Helpful links for travel to New Zealand:
-
Feast your eyes on Mount Cook National Park!
- Enjoy cruises through Milford Sound and Lake Wakatipu.
-
Take a scenic train ride through the Southern Alps, from Arthur's Pass to Christchurch!
-
Visit the old gold mining village of Arrowtown.
-
With an experienced travel director, included tours, and unique dinners, this vacation is no work and all play.
This is an escorted tour. It’s perfect if you prefer not to do your own driving and want to see as many sights as you can during your vacation.
Embark on the trip of a lifetime! Grab your camera and get ready to see snow-capped mountains, vast glaciers, lush rainforests, and bright blue lakes. You'll also experience vibrant cities and old-world villages along the journey. With an experienced guide leading the way, all you'll have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the adventure!
Your vacation begins in Christchurch, known for its English heritage and flower-filled gardens. Enjoy a city sightseeing tour, then venture to the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, surrounded by stunning alpine scenery. Feast your eyes on beautiful Mount Cook National Park, then journey along the Waitaki River! Explore the city of Dunedin, also known as the "Edinburgh of the South," with its Scottish heritage and Victorian/Edwardian architecture.
Next, venture to the breathtaking landscapes of Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound! Enjoy stops at Mirror Lakes, the Chasm, Bowen Falls, and Stirling Falls, and drive through Homer Tunnel to the Cleddau Valley!
Take advantage of some free time to explore Queenstown, then embark on an evening cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard New Zealand's oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw! You'll also indulge in a gourmet BBQ Dinner at Walter Peaks' Colonel's Homestead, where you'll learn all about high-country farm life.
Before returning to Christchurch, you'll spend a night in Franz Josef Glacier, home to jaw-dropping glacial scenery and tiny villages. Experience the picturesque beaches of Hokitika, then visit a local factory and watch master carvers create jewelry and art from locally sourced greenstone and jade! Enjoy the thrill of a stunning train ride through the Southern Alps, from Arthur's Pass back to Christchurch, where you'll spend your final night.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Christchurch!
Feel yourself flutter with excitement as you land in New Zealand's Garden City - Christchurch! Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your first hotel. Check-in, then head out on the town and begin exploring the city!
You may want to hop on the Christchurch Tram for a relaxing loop through the city's must-see attractions. Tram drivers provide live commentary and point out important landmarks throughout!
Transfer to Christchurch hotel
Check-in - Ibis Hotel Christchurch
Located in the heart of the city, Ibis Hotel Christchurch is an ideal place to stay. Guests can expect free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, coffee/tea making facilities, and a television in every room. Oopen Restaurant serves international cuisine, and Oopen Bar is a perfect place to gather any time of day. The hotel is within walking distance to all of the best shopping and dining opportunities that Christchurch has to offer!
Day 2. Christchurch - Omarama
Rise and shine! Enjoy your first breakfast in New Zealand, then embark on a city sights tour of Christchurch.
For the rest of your day, you'll be immersed in spectacular scenery. Drive over the countryside of the Canterbury Plains and feast your eyes on the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, framed by a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and alpine beauty. Enjoy a few photo ops as you visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and nearby statues. You'll also be able to gaze out at spectacular views of Mount Cook!
As the day comes to an end, you'll cozy up in your next accommodation in Omarama.
Check-in - Heritage Gateway Hotel
Heritage Gateway Hotel is set amidst beautiful gardens and scenery. Guests can expect comfortable rooms with free WiFi, coffee/tea making facilities, hair dryers, and more. The hotel features a restaurant and bar where outdoor dining is encouraged to enjoy the mountains! The area around the hotel offers ample hiking and biking opportunities.
Day 3. Omarama - Dunedin
Enjoy a lovely breakfast, then grab your camera and get ready for a day of natural beauty and city exploration. Start with a journey along the Waitaki River, and be sure to stop for a photo at the Waitaki Hydro Power Scene and Benmore Dam! The Benmore Dam holds back New Zealand's largest artificial lake.
From the Waitaki Valley, you'll travel through the township of Oamaru, famous for its tree-lined streets and white limestone buildings. In the afternoon, you'll make your way down to New Zealand's southernmost city, Dunedin.
After checking in to your next hotel, enjoy a free afternoon getting to know Dunedin at your own pace!
Check-in - Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
Scenic Hotel Dunedin City is located within walking distance of many of Dunedin's top attractions. Guest rooms include free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, coffee/tea making facilities, and more. Dine at Princes on Dowling Restaurant, serving breakfast and dinner. Grab a drink and cozy up by the fireplace in the bar after a busy day. Workout at the gym before starting your day, ask the concierge to assist you with booking a tour, and more when you stay at Scenic Hotel Dunedin City.
Day 4. Dunedin - Te Anau
Start the morning with some free time to Dunedin. You may want to venture out to Larnach Castle - New Zealand's only castle! Known as the "Edinburgh of the South," Dunedin boasts Scottish ancestry and showcases Victorian and Edwardian architecture.
This afternoon, you'll travel through lush green pastures and sheep-filled farmland to rugged mountains and heavily forested landscapes. Meander your way up to Fiordland National Park and run into the South Island's largest lake!
Arrive in the town of Te Anau and settle in. This area is known for its glistening Glow Worm Caves. This evening, you may want to treat yourself to an unforgettable excursion through them!
Check-in - Distinction Luxmore Hotel
Distinction Luxmore Hotel is conveniently located in the center of Te Anau. Guest rooms are equipped with free WiFi, coffee/tea making facilities, and television. The hotel offers two dining options, Bailiez Cafe and Hilights Restaurant. The hotel is just a short stroll away from the town's shopping center. Lake Te Anau is also close by, giving guests the opportunity to explore the beauty of the area!
Day 5. Te Anau - Queenstown
Make sure your camera's charged - today will be packed with photo ops! Wave goodbye to Te Anau and journey through Fiordland National Park and out to Milford Sound. This drive will be along one of the most scenic roads in New Zealand! Keep your eyes focused out the window, as you pass rainforests, meadows, and more.
Make a stop at Mirror Lakes, where (true to its name), the mountainous surrounding scenery reflects perfectly in the lake's waters. Next, drive through Homer Tunnel and, as you emerge out the other side, you'll be presented with one of the world's most dramatic alpine drives through the Cleddau Valley.
Enjoy a stop at the Chasm, where the rushing Cleddau River creates a stunning scene. Then, it's on to Milford Sound, where you'll cruise the waters of this natural wonder, taking in sights like Stirling Falls, the Bowen, and Mitre Peak.
After an exciting day, you'll journey onto beautiful Queenstown. As you approach the city, you'll enjoy an orientation tour around Lake Wakatipu and into Queenstown.
The location of this stunning hotel can't get better. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and just a 5-minute walk to the center of Queenstown, you'll enjoy spectacular scenery and easy access to the main hub of shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Upon arrival, check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, then make your way to your room. Open the door and find free WiFi, plush bedding, stylish decor, and much more! Soak in the cozy jacuzzi, then treat yourself to a delicious bite (and amazing views) at the onsite Impressions Restaurant!
Day 6. Queenstown
Today is all yours! Spend the day exploring Queenstown however you'd like. You may want to ride the Shotover Jet Boat or venture out on a Skipper Canyon Scenic Tour. Feeling laid-back and relaxed? Why not hop on a Wine Tour and sample some of Central Otago's renowned wines? Your travel director will be around to answer any questions and assist with your plans.
Regardless of what you choose to do during the day, you'll reconvene for a peaceful evening cruise across Lake Wakatipu. This isn't just any cruise - it's a cruise aboard New Zealand's oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw. Enjoy a delicious gourmet BBQ dinner at Walter Peaks' Colonel's Homestead, then step into farm life during an entertaining after-dinner farm show. On the cruise back to Queenstown, join in on a vintage sing-a-long and dance the night away!
Day 7. Queenstown - Franz Josef
Today, you'll take a journey through Central Otago, ending all the way up at Franz Josef Glacier! Start out with a stop in the restored gold mining settlement of Arrowtown. This old mining town boasts western charm and wooden buildings that'll make you feel like you've stepped into a movie set.
From Arrowtown, continue to Cromwell, situated next to the sparkling waters of Lake Dunstan. In this area, you'll stop at a local orchard for a taste of delicious local fruit! After Dunstan, you'll travel farther into Central Otago, viewing the vivid blue waters of Lake Hawea, Lake Wanaka, and other glistening gems. Follow the ancient greenstone trail over Haast Pass, where you'll notice a change from the alpine scenery of the Southern Lakes, to the rainforest wonders of the wild West Coast. Feast your eyes on the sheer drop of Thunder Creek Falls and Mt. Hooker, surrounded by extensive glaciers.
Last but not least, your day will come to a close as you visit the extraordinary rivers of ice that make up the famous Franz Josef Glacier. After a day of thrill and beauty, enjoy a relaxing dinner at your hotel.
Check-in - Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
Sitting on the edge of Westland World Heritage Park, the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier offers modern amenities and breathtaking views. Step into the beautiful lobby, where modern luxury meets cozy ski lodge. Check in the with the friendly 24-hour reception team, then explore the hotel grounds.
Open the door to your spacious room and find free WiFi, satellite TV, plush bedding, and much more. Many rooms even have balconies and scenic views! Once you settle in, enjoy a steamy soak in the hot tub, or treat yourself to a delicious meal at the onsite restaurant.
Day 8. Franz Josef - Christchurch
This morning, you may want to take a stroll through the tiny-yet-vibrant Franz Josef Village. After a relaxing morning in the area, you'll head to the beautiful beaches of Hokitika. There, you will take in coastal beauty and visit a pounamu factory (native greenstone or jade). Watch master carvers create intricate pieces of jewelry and art!
From Hokitika, you'll continue to the small settlement of Arthur's Pass. There, you'll board the TranzAlpine train headed back to Christchurch city. This spectacular train journey is rated one of the world's most scenic trips! Glide through tunnels, around snow-capped peaks, and through forests, gorges, and river valleys.
Your adventure will come full circle as you arrive back at your Christchurch hotel. Enjoy a delightful farewell dinner with your travel companions and spend the evening sharing your favorite memories!
Check-in - Ibis Hotel Christchurch
Located in the heart of the city, Ibis Hotel Christchurch is an ideal place to stay. Guests can expect free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, coffee/tea making facilities, and a television in every room. Oopen Restaurant serves international cuisine, and Oopen Bar is a perfect place to gather any time of day. The hotel is within walking distance to all of the best shopping and dining opportunities that Christchurch has to offer!
Day 9. Depart New Zealand
Enjoy one last morning in New Zealand! After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your journey home. Spend your flight replaying warm memories and dreaming about your next adventure!