“Experience the South Island in all its winter glory including one of the great railway journeys of the world – the 'TranzAlpine' through the spectacular, snow-covered Southern Alps and one of the most iconic NZ road journeys, through Arthurs Pass. Enjoy Christchurch sightseeing, a beach stay in Hokitika and an overnight in rural Methven. Then enjoy the alpine wonderland of Mount Cook with a special ‘Mid-Winter’ Christmas Dinner at the iconic Hermitage Hotel".
WED 14 AUG - AUCKLAND/CHRISTCHURCH D
Fly with Air New Zealand, depart 10.00am, arrive at 11.25am. Visit the Antarctic Centre and later transfer to your hotel and this evening enjoy a Tram Car Welcome Dinner. Stay Pavilions Hotel (2 nights).
THU 15 AUG - CHRISTCHURCH SIGHTSEEING B,D
Morning sightseeing tour including city highlights and Christchurch Gondola ride. Afternoon is at leisure.
FRI 16 AUG - CHRISTCHURCH/HOKITIKA B,D via TRANZALPINE RAIL
Enjoy one of the great railway journeys in the world, Christchurch to Greymouth via the spectacular snow-covered Southern Alps. On arrival in Greymouth head South, down the rugged coast to Hokitika for the night.
Stay Beachfront Hotel (1 night).
SAT 17 AUG – HOKITIKA/METHVEN B,L,D
Depart Hokitika and drive one of the most iconic roads in New Zealand, Arthur’s Pass. Enjoy lunch in Arthurs Pass village at the Crafty Moa Cafe. Arrive in Methven, the gateway to New Zealand's best ski field. The Opuke Thermal Pools beckon.
Stay Brinkley Resort (1 night).
SUN 18 AUG – METHVEN/MT COOK B,D
Head to awe-inspiring Mount Cook village with a stop at Lake Tekapo and the Church of Good Shepherd for lunch. An iconic hotel, in a world-class destination. Stay Hermitage Hotel (2 nights).
MON 19 AUG – MT COOK B,D
Spend the day in Mount Cook for local activities. This evening enjoy a special ‘Mid-Winter Christmas Dinner’ and a glass of Bubbles at the Hermitage.
TUE 20 AUG – MT COOK/AUCKLAND B,L
Travel home from Mount Cook to Christchurch Airport with a lunch stop at Barkers in Geraldine. Fly Air New Zealand, departing 4.00pm, and arriving 5.25pm in Auckland.
