Explore the amazing landscapes of the South Island. This 8-day adventure takes you from Queenstown's scenic wonders and wine valleys to Franz Josef's glacial beauty. Discover the historic charm of Christchurch, with visits to Ferrymead Heritage Park and a day trip to Akaroa's Giant's House. Indulge in local cuisine and breathtaking views, including a Skyline Gondola dinner and a Nature Cruise through Akaroa Harbour. Immerse yourself in the South Island's grandeur before bidding farewell with memories of this unforgettable journey.
THU 17 OCT - AUCKLAND/QUEENSTOWN D
Depart Auckland on Air NZ 635 at 9.20am. Arrive in Queenstown 11.15am. Transfer to scenic Arrowtown for lunch (own expense). After free time in Arrowtown head to Gibbston Winery for an included wine tasting. Dinner is included tonight.
Stay 2 nights at the Novotel Queenstown Lakeside.
FRI 18 OCT - QUEENSTOWN B,D
Take the scenic route hugging Lake Wakatipu, South towards Glenorchy and arrive at the stunning gardens at Little Paradise. There are thousands of flowers planted all over the beautiful 5-acre garden. including about 3,000 roses and thousands of lilies, some of which stand over 4 metres tall- also Poppies and many other varieties of flowers. It sits exactly on the 45th parallel South, meaning it is the same distance from here to the Equator and the South Pole! The afternoon is free and then we take the Skyline Gondola up Bobs Peak for an included dinner at 1570ft, to soak in the views.
SAT 19 OCT - QUEENSTOWN/FRANZ JOSEF B,L,D
Depart Queenstown and head to Wanaka for a visit. Then off to the wild West Coast and a Jurassic Park-like drive to remote Jackson Bay, where the rare Fiordland Crested Penguins and dolphins are often sighted, as well as the odd deer wandering down the road. A casual but scrumptious lunch here - feasting on Blue Cod fish, Crayfish and Whitebait. After lunch drive North to your hotel which is close to the edge of one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural attractions.
Stay 2 nights at the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier.
SUN 20 OCT - FRANZ JOSEF B,D
A day to relax and explore the region further - maybe take an optional helicopter ride with exceptional views of the alpine landscapes, or a bush walk.
MON 21 OCT - FRANZ JOSEF/CHRISTCHURCH B,D
Head up the rugged coast to Greymouth where you board the fabulous Tranzalpine train service. Relax and enjoy the incredible views. Arrive in Christchurch and transfer to your hotel. 3 nights at the Pavillion Hotel.
TUE 22 OCT - CHRISTCHURCH SIGHTSEEING B,L,D
Visit Ferrymead Heritage Park. An Edwardian township depicting what life was like over 100 years ago. Explore and then enjoy its famous tram ride. We then drive to Sumner and lunch at the scenic Scarborough Fare cafe. The afternoon is free. Dinner on the fabulous Christchurch Tram tonight.
WED 23 OCT - CHRISTCHURCH & AKAROA B,L,D
A day trip to gorgeous Akaroa. Visit the eclectic house & gardens of The Giant’s House. A cafe style lunch here then enjoy a fabulous Nature Cruise of Akaroa Harbour.
Tonight a Farewell Dinner.
THU 24 OCT - CHRISTCHURCH/AUCKLAND B
Transfer to Christchurch airport for your Air NZ flight NZ538 departing at 11am and arriving back into Auckland 12.25pm.
