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About Your Journey
A relaxed 8-day journey through New Zealand’s South Island
Discover the beauty, charm, and ever-changing landscapes of the South Island on this memorable journey, designed for over 60s New Zealand travellers. From the heritage streets of Christchurch and the French-inspired village of Akaroa to the rugged West Coast, the Southern Alps, and the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, this tour combines iconic scenery with unique local experiences and wonderful hospitality.
Travelling with a maximum of 14 guests in a comfortable luxury minivan, you’ll enjoy quality hotels, included meals, and the care of Tour Leader Al Fleming. It is a stress-free South Island escape at a steady, manageable pace.
Itinerary
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Fly Air New Zealand to Christchurch. Afternoon free to relax or explore before a special welcome dinner aboard the Tramway Restaurant as you travel through the heart of the city. Two nights at Fable Hotel Christchurch.
Included: D
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Travel over Banks Peninsula, stopping at Little River Café & Gallery. In Akaroa, visit The Giants House — famous for its gardens, mosaics, and sculptures — then enjoy lunch and a Black Cat Nature Cruise on Akaroa Harbour, watching for Hector’s dolphins, seals, and seabirds. Return to Christchurch for dinner.
Included: B, L, D
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Cross the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass, one of New Zealand’s most scenic alpine routes. Lunch at your own expense en route. This afternoon visit historic Shantytown and the stories of the West Coast gold rush. Overnight at Copthorne Hotel Greymouth.
Included: B, D
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Travel south along the West Coast through rugged coastline, rainforest, and mountain scenery to Franz Josef, nestled beneath the Southern Alps. Two nights at Scenic Hotel Franz Josef.
Included: B, D
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A free day to enjoy Franz Josef at your own pace — perhaps an optional scenic flight, a nature walk, the Waiho Hot Tubs, or simply the peaceful alpine village. Dinner at the hotel.
Included: B, D
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Leave the West Coast via a Haast River Safari, then continue to Glen Dene Station for lunch and an insight into high-country farm life. Arrive Omarama this evening. Overnight at Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel.
Included: B, L, D
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Travel through Mackenzie Country to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park for lunch at The Hermitage with alpine views. Continue to Lake Tekapō and the Church of the Good Shepherd. Overnight at Peppers Bluewater Resort.
Included: B, L, D
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Visit Trotts Garden in Ashburton for a guided tour and light lunch, then continue to Christchurch Airport for your Air New Zealand flight home.
Included: B, L
South Island splendour, shared with just 14 guests. Perfect.
Reserve your place on this unforgettable tour. Numbers are limited, so don’t delay.
Why you’ll love this trip
Travelwise’s exceptional planning takes care of every detail – flights, luxury minivan travel, quality hotels, and all-inclusive experiences – so you can simply enjoy the South Island. Your dedicated Tour Leader, Al Fleming, brings caring professionalism and genuine warmth, creating a true sense of community among like-minded over 60s New Zealand travellers. With a maximum of just 14 guests, thoughtful pacing, and iconic scenery from Akaroa to Franz Josef and Tekapo, this is the stress-free South Island escape you deserve.
Inclusions & Activities
Airfares: Return Economy class airfares Auckland to Christchurch
Luxury Minivan: Enjoy comfortable luxury minivan touring, with a maximum of 14 guests
Accommodation: 7 nights quality accommodation throughout
Sightseeing: All sightseeing and attractions as shown, including a Haast River Safari, Glen Dene Station tour and more
Meals: Daily breakfasts plus lunches and dinners as specified
Transfers: Home pick up and drop off in Auckland Metro area
Tour Leader: Travelwise Tour Leader throughout, plus local guides
Al Fleming, Tour Leader
Your Tour Leader
Al Fleming
Al is an engaging, nature-loving Tour Leader at Travelwise who connects deeply with landscapes, history, and people. Al’s easy-going spirit and passion for the ocean and discovery make him the ideal guide for travellers who want to feel inspired and connected.
Before you book, you should know
Activity Level 2: A balanced pace with more time exploring throughout the day. Suitable for travellers comfortable with longer walks, standing during sightseeing, independently boarding coaches, trains and boats, walking over some uneven surfaces. A good choice if you prefer: Getting out and about, with a steady but manageable pace
Departure: Tuesday 23 February 2027
Other Notes: Maximum 14 guests.
Deposit $500 pp
Balance Payment Date: 17 December 2026
Bookings may still be available after this date. Please contact us for availability.
Insurance: Not mandatory for this tour.
