Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of New Zealand’s South Island on this immersive journey. From Christchurch’s historic tram dining to the stunning TranzAlpine rail journey, coastal wonders of Punakaiki, and the artistic charm of Nelson, each day is a new adventure. Cruise Abel Tasman National Park, savour Marlborough wines, and enjoy a Seafood Odyssea cruise in the Sounds. Discover aviation history in Blenheim and relax in Hanmer Springs. A perfect blend of nature, culture, and indulgence awaits!
Activity Level 1
Early Booking Discount - Book by 20 Feb, 2026 and save an extra $70 per person
Home pick up & return within the Auckland Metropolitan area (if applicable). Services of a Travelwise Holidays Tour Leader throughout.
Return economy class airfares Auckland to Blenheim and Wellington to Auckland.
Quality hotel accommodation throughout.
All locally guided sightseeing tours.
Omaka Aviation
Marlborough Sounds Cruise & Lunch
Edwin Fox museum
Interislander ferry
Zealandia
Weta Workshop.
Meals as indicated.
All airport and hotel transfers throughout.
WED 23 DEC – AUCKLAND/BLENHEIM/PICTON
Depart Auckland on Air New Zealand at 12.05pm, arriving in Blenheim at 1.50pm. Continue to Picton, the heart of the Marlborough Sounds, and home to great cafés, restaurants, galleries and specialty shops. Stay The Edit Hotel, Picton, 3 nights. Included: D
THU 24 DEC – MARLBOROUGH SIGHTSEEING
This morning visit the impressive Omaka Aviation Centre and its Knight of the Sky & Dangerous Skies exhibitions. Later indulge in a wine tasting and hearty lunch at Saint Clair Family Estate - renowned for producing world-class wines. Dinner at the hotel. Included: B, L, D
FRI 25 DEC – MARLBOROUGH SOUNDS CRUISE & LUNCH
Today cruise to Punga Cove, set amongst stunning scenery in the magnificent Marlborough Sounds. Savour a special Christmas lunch at Punga Fern Restaurant. Freedom dining tonight (light dinner options are available at the hotel). Included: B, L
SAT 26 DEC – PICTON/WELLINGTON
Discover the lost world of sail at the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum. Enjoy an included morning tea and later drift through the fjord-like channels and inlets of the Marlborough Sounds on the Interislander ferry to Wellington. Dinner at the hotel. Stay Naumi Studio Hotel, Wellington, 2 nights. Included: B, MT, D
SUN 27 DEC – WELLINGTON
This morning visit Zealandia, a fully-fenced sanctuary, home to many of our rarest species of birds, reptiles, fish, insects and plants. The afternoon is free. A cosy farewell dinner tonight, at Italian restaurant Ombra. Included: B, D
MON 28 DEC – WELLINGTON/AUCKLAND
Experience the movie magic of Weta Workshop - walk amongst props, prosthetics, costumes, swords and animatronics, where each one tells a unique story. After an included lunch head to the airport for your afternoon flight. Depart Wellington at 2.55pm and arrive in Auckland at 4.00pm. Included: B, L
Deposit: $500pp
