Day 1:Arrive Christchurch  (D)

This morning those passengers travelling from Brisbane will meet with the Tour Host at Brisbane International Airport for the flight to Christchurch. Interstate passengers will meet the host and group at Christchurch Airport or the hotel. Welcome to Christchurch, the garden city. Blending English heritage with bold new design, Christchurch has transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and resilience. Discover striking modern architecture, thriving arts and dining scene, and green spaces. As the gateway to alpine adventures and coastal drives, the city offers both inspiration and escape. On arrival at Christchurch Airport, we will be met by our local guide and transferred to our hotel for the next 6 nights. After checking in and a quick freshen up, we’ll meet for a welcome dinner this evening.

Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Christchurch – 4.5 star – or similar (6 nights) 

Please check with reservations before booking your flight. There will only be one group arrival transfer.

Day 2: Sheep & Wine (B,L,D)

Journey to Waipara Valley and experience Glenafric Farm, a 770-hectare coastal sheep and cattle farm supporting three generations. Witness sheep shearing demonstrations, interact with skilled farm dogs, explore the vintage tractor collection, and learn about the farm’s fascinating geology. We enjoy a guided tour of the farm in comfort while soaking in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Relish a locally sourced grazing platter while taking in stunning views from “Louise’s Lookout.” Enjoy wine tastings of the award-winning Syrah, Riesling, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir at a celebrated Waipara Valley winery.  This evening, we will come together for dinner.

Day 3: Christchurch  (B,L)

Explore Christchurch’s earthquake devastated inner city while learning about its history, the 2011 earthquake, and ongoing rebuild. Visit Mona Vale’s historic homestead and gardens, then enjoy panoramic views from the Sign of the Takahe. Travel through the Port Hills past Lyttelton Harbour, Governors Bay, and the Port of Lyttelton, through the harbour tunnel to Sumner and Cave Rock, before returning to the city centre Botanic Gardens. Sit back and take in the natural beauty of the Botanic Gardens in comfort with a guided tour on board an eco-friendly electric shuttle. Our guide’s live commentary will detail the seasonal highlights we will see during the 50-minute tour. It’s a great way to see this 21-hectare space for garden enthusiasts: there’s something to see every season! Lunch at Curators House, Christchurch Botanic Gardens. After lunch we make our way back to our hotel for an afternoon of relaxation and leisure. Dinner tonight is at our own expense. Your tour host will be on hand for anyone who would like company for dinner.

Day 4: TranzAlpine  (B,L)

After an early breakfast, we will transfer to the Christchurch railway station. Here we will check in and board the TranzAlpine in Scenic plus Class for a full day return rail journey from Christchurch to Greymouth on the West Coast. Scenic Plus Class offers a premium onboard dining experience on the TranzAlpine journey, allowing us to enjoy the flavours of the region while taking in the passing scenery. The service includes an all-inclusive food and beverage experience with a regionally inspired “paddock to plate” menu, paired drinks, and specialist barista coffee. We will enjoy travelling in a dedicated Scenic Plus carriage with panoramic windows, comfortable seating, and access to an open-air viewing carriage, along with priority check-in, boarding, and attentive personal service throughout the journey. The TranzAlpine journey is one of a kind. Ranked amongst the best train journeys in the world, the TranzAlpine route is truly stunning. Cutting through the mountainous spine of New Zealand’s South Island, the railway weaves through cliff-lined river gorges, over high mountain plains, over braided rivers and around pristine mountain lakes. This afternoon we make our way back to our hotel for an evening of relaxation and leisure. Dinner tonight is at our own expense. Your tour host will be on hand for anyone who would like company for dinner.

Day 5: Christchurch  (B,D)

Enjoy breakfast this morning before a full day at leisure*. Tonight, we will come together to enjoy dinner.

*other than the included meals, all activities/transport during leisure time is at own expense

Day 6: Antarctic Centre & Willowbank Wildlife Reserve (B,L)

Today after breakfast we will visit the International Antarctic Centre for a guided tour, enjoying an interactive Antarctic experience on a real Antarctic campus near Christchurch Airport. We will experience the Four Seasons of Antarctica show, step into the snow and ice zone, feel an Antarctic storm, see the Little Blue Penguins, ride the Hagglund vehicle, enjoy a simulated 4D Antarctic cruise, and watch a spectacular film on a massive screen. Lunch today is at the Ōtoromiro Hotel, a charming historic country hotel located in Governors Bay. Established in 1870, the heritage hotel overlooks Lyttelton Harbour and has been welcoming travellers for over 150 years. Where we will enjoy classic gastro-pub style meals, local wines and craft beers, and friendly Kiwi hospitality in a peaceful village setting. After lunch we depart for the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, one of NZ’s iconic visitor attractions, with a unique NZ story. Enjoy meeting introduced animals to NZ, heritage breed of farm animals and one of the best and most natural displays of native species to be found in New Zealand. This afternoon we make our way back to our hotel for an evening of relaxation and leisure. Dinner tonight is at our own expense. Your tour host will be on hand for anyone who would like company for dinner.

Day 7: Christchurch – Queenstown  (B,L,D)

Travel south through New Zealand’s breathtaking countryside, pausing in the charming township of Geraldine a delightful spot to stretch our legs and enjoy its relaxed country charm. Continue onward to the striking turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, arriving around midday for a leisurely lunch at TVL Restaurant. Framed by sweeping alpine vistas, it’s a beautiful setting to unwind and savour the region’s flavours. After lunch, we journey onward through the dramatic landscapes of the Mackenzie Basin and over the Lindis Pass, arriving into the lakeside town of Wanaka. Take a moment to soak in the serenity of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding peaks before continuing your scenic drive south. By late afternoon, arrive into Queenstown where our unforgettable 5 night stay awaits. After checking in and a quick freshen up, we’ll meet for dinner.

Accommodation: QT Queenstown – 5 star – or similar (5 nights) 

Day 8: Arrowtown & Mora Wines  (B,L,D)

After breakfast, we depart Queenstown and enjoy a scenic drive to Arrowtown, where we’ll have free time to explore this charming historic town at our own pace. Wander through its quaint streets, browse local boutiques, or relax at a cozy café. From there, continue to Mora Wines for a delightful wine tasting followed by lunch, showcasing the region’s local flavors. We will have the opportunity to taste 5 wines from the award winning Mora and RUA wine series. On the return journey to Queenstown, stop at the iconic Kawarau Bungy Bridge for viewing and photo opportunities, watching thrill seekers leap from the world’s first commercial bungy jumping bridge. Tonight we dine at the famous Botswana Butchery, one of Queenstown’s most popular and stylish fine dining restaurants, set in the historic Archer’s Cottage with stunning views over Lake Wakatipu and signature roaring log fires that create a warm, inviting atmosphere year round. We will enjoy luxurious yet relaxed dining experience, with a menu that highlights premium locally sourced meats, seafood, and New Zealand‑inspired dishes.

Day 9: Queenstown – MERRY CHRISTMAS!  (B,L)

This morning, we come together for a leisurely Christmas morning breakfast. At lunchtime we transfer to South Eatery at the Mercure Queenstown for Christmas Day lunch. This is a festive buffet style experience where we will be served a generous selection of seasonal, locally inspired dishes. The restaurant’s floor to ceiling windows frame breathtaking views over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range, so we can soak up the stunning alpine scenery while we enjoy our festive Christmas lunch, in a memorable relaxed, celebratory atmosphere. After lunch we make our way back to our hotel for an afternoon of relaxation and leisure. Dinner tonight is at our own expense. Your tour host will be on hand for anyone who would like company for dinner.

Day 10: TSS Earnslaw, Walter Peak, Skyline Gondola (B,L,D)

This morning, after breakfast, we take a short walk to the Lake Whakatipu Marina where we will board the iconic TSS Earnslaw. Our journey begins with a return cruise across Lake Wakatipu, taking in stunning alpine and lake views. On disembarking our cruise, we will experience Walter Peak High Country Farm, where a gourmet meal and farm show come together for an unforgettable day. At Walter Peak, we will enjoy a buffet style gourmet BBQ lunch at the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant with relaxed lakeside dining. The experience is completed with the Walter Peak farm show, where we will see sheep shearing and meet farm animals in a fun, interactive way. On returning to Lake Whakatipu Marina, we will have some free time to explore Queenstown before freshening up to meet for your transfer to dinner. For tonight’s Farewell Dinner we will ride the iconic Skyline Queenstown Gondola high up to Bob’s Peak, soaking in breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables and surrounding alpine landscape as we ascend above Queenstown. Once at the summit, venture to the lookout platforms and snap some unforgettable photos. Our dining experience includes a premium dining experience at the Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar, a buffet style feast featuring locally inspired grilled meats, fresh seafood, plant-based options and decadent desserts, all enjoyed with uninterrupted floor to ceiling views over the scenic Wakatipu Basin. After dinner, we will descend the Gondola back down the mountain and be transferred to our hotel, rounding off a memorable Queenstown evening and a magical final night celebration in New Zealand.

Day 11: Depart Queenstown  (B)

This morning, after breakfast, we check out and enjoy a relaxed morning of free time in Queenstown. There will be time to stroll along the lakefront, browse the charming shops and galleries, or simply sit at a café soaking up the alpine scenery and fresh mountain air. Lunch today is at our own expense. Maybe experience the famous Fergburger, a Queenstown institution known for its gourmet, generously sized burgers, perfect for a hearty treat or savour fresh local seafood like green‑lipped mussels, chowder or linguine. This is our last opportunity to celebrate the fresh South Island produce. At an agreed time meet back at the QT for our transfer to Queenstown Airport for your onward flight home. Please check with reservations before booking your flight. There will only be one group departure transfer.