Visit the scenic South Island's highlights on this stunning 7 day tour. For sheer variety and breath taking beauty, this scenery is amongst the finest anywhere.
Your Itinerary
Day 1:
Christchurch - Akaroa - Christchurch (Alternatively Kaikoura)
Akaroa is situated in a picturesque bay in Banks Peninsula, and is a delightful 1-hour drive from Christchurch, with stunning views from the hilltop passes over the surrounding bays. The French first settled this seaside village in the 1840’s, and today is still rich it’s French heritage. A scenic cruise around the bay will include viewing the hector dolphins, or even swimming with these unique mammals. A stroll around this tranquil township will include its many historic buildings, church’s, beautiful gardens and galleries. Return to Christchurch late afternoon or stay overnight in or near Akaroa.
(B)
Day 2:
Christchurch - Franz Josef
This coast to coast journey may be travelled partly by the Tranz Alpine Express train, which follows a route through the Canterbury Plains, encompassing rivers, valleys and mountains, finally finishing at Greymouth on the west coast. This trip is generally acknowledged as one of the finest rail journeys in the world. Alternatively this section can be travelled by road. From Greymouth we follow the coast road north to view the unique Punakiki pancake rock formations. Heading south again we enjoy the rain forest clad surroundings of the rugged and wild west coast. Several picturesque lakes will be viewed before arriving at Franz Josef.
(B)
Day 3:
Franz Josef - Queenstown
A glacier tour or scenic flight is available to start Day 3. After leaving Franz Josef we arrive in Fox Glacier Township, and a twenty-minute bush walk will reveal great views of Fox glacier. The much photographed mirror-like Lake Matheson is then visited, with its stunning backdrop of Mount’s Cook and Tasman. The highway passes the beautiful Lake Moeraki before reaching the coast of the Tasman Sea, then passing through the broad delta of the Haast River. The Haast Pass follows the river up among the majestic mountains, traversing down the Makarora Valley, past Lake Hawea, and onto the popular holiday destination of Lake Wanaka. The Cardrona Valley and Crown Range provide some breath-taking views of the Wakatipu Valley on the road to Queenstown.
(B)
Day 4:
Queenstown
A free day to sample the sights and activities of New Zealand’s premier tourist resort. These include the Skyline Gondola and luge, The TSS Earnslaw steamship cruise, Shotover River jetboat and bungy jumping.
(B)
Day 5:
Queenstown - Milford Sound - Te Anau
The road from Queenstown first follows the shore of Lake Wakatipu, crossing the rich Southland farmland before reaching Te Anau. From here we continue to Milford Sound, a drive that surely must be amongst the finest in the world. Passing through Fiordland National Park, with stunning views of lakes, lush forests, river flats, waterfalls and towering granite peaks. The Homer Tunnel is passed through emerging into a breathtaking amphitheatre of snow covered peaks and precipes at the head of Cleddau Canyon, before descending through the rain forest to Milford Sound. A boat cruise is essential here to view the magnificent scenery of this World Heritage Area. Travel back to Te Anau.
(B)
Day 6:
Te Anau - Mt Cook
Returning to Queenstown we have a brief stop at the quaint township of Arrowtown. Passing by the Kawarau Gorge, Lake Dunstan and the rolling tussock covered plains of Lindis Pass; Day 6 provides more spectacular scenery. The Hermitage is the focal point of Mount Cook village, and New Zealand’s highest mountain (3,764m), provides the perfect backdrop. Walks and scenic flights are popular here to view the many glaciers and mountains that form the mighty Southern Alps.
(B)
Day 7:
Mt Cook - Christchurch
Passing by Lakes Pukaki and Ruatanawha, then to the picturesque Lake Tekapo and it's "Church of the Good Shepard". The rugged wilderness of the Mackenzie Country and the Canterbury plains takes us towards the “Garden City" of Christchurch, arriving late afternoon and concluding the South Island Tour.
(B)
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Based on up to 10 passengers in Mercedes Mini coach, 7 nights 4 star accomm, twin share basis. NZ$ (For scheduled departure dates see web site)
Also see tour packages in:
Australia and Oceania
New Zealand
Self Drive
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