Discover the beauty, charm and ever-changing landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island on this relaxed and memorable journey. From the heritage streets of Christchurch and the French-inspired village of Akaroa to the rugged West Coast, majestic Southern Alps and the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, this tour combines iconic scenery with unique local experiences, quality accommodation and wonderful hospitality throughout.
Maximum 14 guests , enjoy luxury mini van touring.
Activity Level 2
Early Booking Discount - book by 31 July 2026 and save $70 per person!
TUE 23 FEB - AUCKLAND/CHRISTCHURCH
Today we fly from Auckland to the Garden City of Christchurch, departing on Air New Zealand flight NZ527 at 9.00am. Arrive Christchurch 10.25am. After arrival, enjoy some free time to relax or explore the city at your leisure before we come together this evening for a special welcome dinner aboard the famous Tramway Restaurant, offering a unique dining experience as we travel through the heart of Christchurch. Stay Fable Hotel Christchurch, 2 nights. Included: D
WED 24 FEB - AKAROA DAY EXCURSION
Today we journey over the scenic Banks Peninsula to the charming French inspired harbour village of Akaroa. Along the way, we stop at the delightful Little River Café & Gallery for a relaxing morning coffee break. In Akaroa, enjoy a visit to the colourful and quirky Giants House, famous for its stunning gardens, vibrant mosaics and artistic sculptures, followed by lunch. This afternoon, we board a Black Cat Nature Cruise to explore Akaroa Harbour, keeping watch for wildlife including Hector’s dolphins, seals and seabirds in their natural environment.
We return to Christchurch later this afternoon before dinner at the hotel. Included: B, L, D
THURS 25 FEB - CHRISTCHURCH/GREYMOUTH
This morning we travel across the Southern Alps via the spectacular Arthur’s Pass route, one of New Zealand’s most scenic alpine journeys. Marvel at dramatic mountain landscapes, river valleys and native forest as we make our way to the rugged West Coast. There will be time to stop for lunch at your own expense en route before arriving in Greymouth. This afternoon we step back in time with a visit to historic Shantytown, where the stories of the West Coast gold rush era come to life. Stay Copthorne Hotel Greymouth 1 night. Included: B, D
FRI 26 FEB - GREYMOUTH/FRANZ JOSEF
This morning we continue south along the spectacular West Coast, with today’s journey showcasing untamed coastline, rainforest and mountain scenery. Along the way, we enjoy an exciting Haast River Safari experience, travelling from Haast Bridge to Roaring Billy Falls through the untouched beauty of this remarkable wilderness region. Later today we arrive in Franz Josef, nestled beneath the Southern Alps and surrounded by rainforest and glacier country. Stay Scenic Hotel Franz Josef 2 nights. Included: B, D
SAT 27 FEB - FRANZ JOSEF
Today is free for you to relax and enjoy Franz Josef at your own pace. Perhaps take an optional scenic flight for breathtaking glacier views, enjoy a nature walk, visit the Waiho Hot Tubs or simply soak up the peaceful surroundings of this unique alpine village. Dinner is included this evening at the hotel. Included: B, D
SUN 28 FEB - FRANZ JOSEF/OMARAMA
Today we leave the West Coast behind as we travel through ever changing landscapes towards the Mackenzie Country. A special highlight today is our visit to Glen Dene Station, where we enjoy lunch surrounded by stunning high country scenery and gain an insight into life on a working station in this remarkable part of New Zealand. This evening we arrive in Omarama. Stay Distinction Heritage Gateway Hotel 1 night. Included: B, L, D
MON 01 MAR - OMARAMA/LAKE TEKAPO
This morning we continue through the spectacular South Island high country towards Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. We stop at The Hermitage at Mount Cook for lunch, where towering alpine scenery and breathtaking views provide an unforgettable backdrop. Later we travel to the picturesque lakeside township of Lake Tekapo, famous for its brilliant turquoise waters and a wonderful photo opportunity at the Church of the Good Shepherd. Stay Peppers Bluewater Resort 1 night. Included: B, L, D
TUE 02 MAR - LAKE TEKAPO/CHRISTCHURCH
After breakfast we begin our journey back towards Christchurch. En route, we visit the beautiful Trotts Garden in Ashburton, regarded as one of New Zealand’s finest gardens, where we enjoy a guided garden tour followed by a light lunch.
This afternoon we continue to Christchurch Airport. Depart Christchurch on Air New Zealand flight NZ558 at 4.05pm. Arrive Auckland 5.30pm. Included: B, L
