Southern Wonders
A little bit city, a little bit country. A whole lot of nature, and just as much culture. Oh, and plenty of opportunities to indulge in food and wine. This tour of the South Island of New Zealand delivers the perfect recipe for a taste of the country. Look forward to Franz Josef/Waiau tours, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi cruises and glimpses into cosmopolitan life on Christchurch and Queenstown tours.
- 06 Apr 2026 – 14 Apr 2026
from $5,465 pp twin share * - 28 Sep 2026 – 06 Oct 2026
from $4,755 pp twin share * - 12 Oct 2026 – 20 Oct 2026
from $5,305 pp twin share * - 19 Oct 2026 – 27 Oct 2026
from $5,305 pp twin share * - 26 Oct 2026 – 03 Nov 2026
from $4,755 pp twin share * - 02 Nov 2026 – 10 Nov 2026
from $5,305 pp twin share * - 16 Nov 2026 – 24 Nov 2026
from $4,755 pp twin share * - 23 Nov 2026 – 01 Dec 2026
from $5,305 pp twin share * - 30 Nov 2026 – 08 Dec 2026
from $5,305 pp twin share * - 07 Dec 2026 – 15 Dec 2026
from $4,755 pp twin share * - 14 Dec 2026 – 22 Dec 2026
from $5,305 pp twin share * - 21 Dec 2026 – 29 Dec 2026
from $5,305 pp twin share * - 28 Dec 2026 – 05 Jan 2027
from $4,755 pp twin share * - 04 Jan 2027 – 12 Jan 2027
from $5,465 pp twin share * - 11 Jan 2027 – 19 Jan 2027
from $4,915 pp twin share * - 18 Jan 2027 – 26 Jan 2027
from $5,465 pp twin share * - 25 Jan 2027 – 02 Feb 2027
from $4,915 pp twin share * - 01 Feb 2027 – 09 Feb 2027
from $5,465 pp twin share * - 08 Feb 2027 – 16 Feb 2027
from $4,915 pp twin share * - 15 Feb 2027 – 23 Feb 2027
from $5,465 pp twin share * - 22 Feb 2027 – 02 Mar 2027
from $4,915 pp twin share * - 01 Mar 2027 – 09 Mar 2027
from $5,465 pp twin share * - 08 Mar 2027 – 16 Mar 2027
from $4,915 pp twin share * - 15 Mar 2027 – 23 Mar 2027
from $5,465 pp twin share * - 22 Mar 2027 – 30 Mar 2027
from $4,915 pp twin share * - 29 Mar 2027 – 06 Apr 2027
from $4,915 pp twin share * - 05 Apr 2027 – 13 Apr 2027
from $5,730 pp twin share * - 27 Sep 2027 – 05 Oct 2027
from $5,575 pp twin share * - 11 Oct 2027 – 19 Oct 2027
from $5,575 pp twin share * - 18 Oct 2027 – 26 Oct 2027
from $5,575 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
- Day 1 – Welcome to Christchurch:
You don’t have to arrive in Christchurch early, but we recommend you do – this South Island city has some of New Zealand’s most innovative architecture, not to mention forward-thinking restaurants and bars. Tonight, it’s time to meet your Travel Director and travelling companions for drinks. - Day 2 – Christchurch – Franz Josef:
Your South Island Tour starts on a literal high as you jump aboard the TranzAlpine train, crossing the Canterbury Plains towards the Southern Alps and Arthur’s Pass. This is one of the world’s most scenic rail experiences, through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, icy rivers, beech forests, gorges and river valleys. At the other end of the line is Hokitika, the home of pounamu (native greenstone or jade). Just when you thought your day couldn’t get any better, Franz Josef town twinkles on the horizon. This afternoon, you may choose to fly over Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere. - Day 3 – Franz Josef – Queenstown:
Over the Haast Pass, alpine drama awaits. The Southern Lakes deserve their name: there are almost more waterways here than you can count. First up there’s lovely Lake Wanaka, with its Instagrammable shoreline of poplars and willows. Followed by oh-so-blue Lake Hawea and Lake Dunstan, where you’ll pause to refuel on flavour-packed stone fruit. As tempting as it is to linger in Arrowtown’s movie-set-like streets, lined with trees and character-filled boutiques, Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables await in Queenstown. - Day 4 – Queenstown Free Time:
The adventure capital of New Zealand doesn’t disappoint when it comes to activities that are fast and furious. Take your pick, you could explore the natural drama of Skippers Canyon. Prefer life at a more leisurely pace? Opt to step into The Lord of the Rings movie scenery or sip your way through surrounding vineyards (all own expense). Wherever you wander, make sure you’re back in time to glide across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue dinner. - Day 5 – Queenstown – Te Anau:
Nature rules today as you motor from the Mirror Lakes through the Cleddau Valley. But this is just a teaser of what’s to come: World Heritage listed Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. A cruise across this dreamy expanse will give you goosebumps, its string of waterfalls creating a misty curtain across sheer escarpments. Look out for fur seals – they’re a common sight here. The road back through Fiordland National Park is an intoxicating union of beech forests, alluvial flats, meadows and gin-clear rivers, carving up the countryside en route to Te Anau. And just when you thought things couldn’t get any more magical, nestled on the edge of the South Island’s largest lake, Te Anau is the perfect place to savour some peace and relaxation after the spectacle of the day. - Day 6 – Te Anau – Dunedin:
The South Island’s biggest lake is a blissful place for an invigorating morning walk. If it doesn’t set your pulse racing, than your outlook of rolling green hills dotted with doe-eyed sheep surely will. This pastoral countryside surrounds the city of Dunedin. While away the afternoon in atmospheric art-lined alleys or sipping a lager or two in Speight’s Brewery (a national institution), or visit grand Larnach Castle. You could venture further afield to discover the wildlife that thrives in this pretty pocket of the country. - Day 7 – Dunedin – Omarama:
Time is on your side this morning. Sleep in or take a stroll around the manicured grounds of Otago University to the city’s main George Street. Make a stop en route in Oamaru, a town with a rich history, featuring Victorian architecture and original boutiques. - Day 8 – Omarama – Christchurch:
If there’s a lake with a more vivid turquoise colour than Tekapo, we’re yet to see it. It’s made even more dramatic by snow-capped mountains, the quaint Church of the Good Shepherd and atmospheric towns that surround. Your Indoor Dark Sky Astronomy Experience at Tekapo, hosted by passionate local specialists, will forever change the way you see the night sky. Back on earth, you’re becoming reacquainted with Christchurch, your in-the-know Travel Director pointing out the city’s miraculous transformation over the last decade. Local spirit is strong here. Tonight, enjoy drinks to toast your adventure. - Day 9 – Farewell from Christchurch:
If you feel like you’ve only seen the tip of the South Island’s iceberg, you’d be correct. This beguiling part of the country could keep travel enthusiasts entertained for eons. Thankfully, we have more itineraries – ask your Travel Director and start planning your next trip to New Zealand.
Highlights
- Cruise the stunning Milford Sound.
- Witness the majestic Franz Josef Glacier.
- Explore the vibrant cities of Christchurch and Queenstown.
A little bit city, a little bit country. A whole lot of nature, and just as much culture. Oh, and plenty of opportunities to indulge in food and wine. This tour of the South Island of New Zealand delivers the perfect recipe for a taste of the country. Look forward to Franz Josef/Waiau tours, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi cruises and glimpses into cosmopolitan life on Christchurch and Queenstown tours.
Inclusions
- MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience – Witness the universe at Tekapo’s Dark Sky Project, where stargazing meets astronomical insights Embark on a cruise in Milford Sound/Piopiotahi to admire towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and untouched fiord scenery Cruise Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak on TSS Earnslaw Steamship Relish a gourmet BBQ Dinner and Farm Show at Walter Peak High Country Farm See Franz Josef Glacier from a panoramic viewpoint Experience one of the world’s great train journeys aboard the TranzAlpine through the Southern Alps View the Church of the Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo.
- Day 1 highlights Welcome to Christchurch: You don’t have to arrive in Christchurch early, but we recommend you do – this South Island city has some of New Zealand’s most innovative architecture, not to mention forward-thinking restaurants and bars. Tonight, it’s time to meet your Travel Director and travelling companions for drinks.
- Day 2 highlights Christchurch – Franz Josef: Your South Island Tour starts on a literal high as you jump aboard the TranzAlpine train, crossing the Canterbury Plains towards the Southern Alps and Arthur’s Pass. This is one of the world’s most scenic rail experiences, through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, icy rivers, beech forests, gorges and river valleys. At the other end of the line is Hokitika, the home of pounamu (native greenstone or jade). Just when you thought your day couldn’t get any better, Franz Josef town twinkles on the horizon. This afternoon, you may choose to fly over Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere.
FAQs
- Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown
- Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel
- Distinction Luxmore Hotel
- Ibis Hotel Christchurch
- Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
- Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 9 days and 8 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 06 Apr 2026 and 04 Apr 2028, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Are discounts available?
Seasonal or loyalty discounts may be available on selected departures at the time of enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
Fine Print
Terms and conditions apply. Click here for more details.