South Island Spectacular
Visiting: New Zealand
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
0 - 48
Physical rating:
N/A
Age range:
18+
Interests:
Tour Overview
New Zealand’s South Island is a true scenic delight, from the magnificent alpine scenery as you ride the famous TranzAlpine train, to the crystal blue water of the Franz Josef glacier. The magical beauty of Lake Wakatipu contrasts with the all action resort of Queenstown and complements the outstanding beauty of the Fiordland National Park and stunning Milford Sound. Stay in New Zealand’s oldest city, Dunedin; visit Larnach Castle, which wouldn’t be out of place in Scotland, and marvel at the outstanding beauty of snow-capped Mount Cook and the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo.
Highlights
- TranzAlpine - one of the world’s most famous train journeys
- Explore the Scottish heritage of Dunedin
Itinerary
Day 1: Christchurch
On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel.
Hotel: Distinction Christchurch
Dinner on Day 1 is not included for anyone arriving later than 8pm.
Day 2: Christchurch - Arthur’s Pass - Franz Josef
This morning board the TranzAlpine and travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges. Board your coach at Arthurs Pass and travel to Hokitika, famous for its Greenstone before continuing to Franz Josef.
Hotel: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
Day 3: Franz Josef - Queenstown
See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south along the West Coast to Fox Glacier and via the Haast Pass to picturesque Queenstown, a year round resort situated on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu.
Hotel for 2 nights: Mercure Queenstown Resort
Day 4: Queenstown
Today is a free day for you to enjoy everything that Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu have to offer, your Coach Captain and Tour Guide are available to assist. Perhaps take a ride on the Skyline Gondola high atop the Queenstown basin, where you’ll enjoy the best views in the region unfolding before your eyes. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station where you are treated to the best of New Zealand’s high country cuisine.
Day 5: Queenstown - Te Anau
Travel to Arrowtown, an old gold mining village where you will visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland nestling on the southern shores of Lake Te Anau.
Hotel for 2 nights: Distinction Luxmore Hotel
Day 6: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Te Anau
A day of stunning scenic beauty today as you depart Te Anau for Milford Sound and cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy a picnic lunch on-board. This afternoon return to Te Anau where some free time is available.
Day 7: Te Anau - Dunedin
Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Dunedin known as the “Edinburgh of the South” and enjoy an informative city tour. Travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle where you will hear of the tragic and scandalous history on a guided tour. Tonight enjoy a Scottish evening with bagpipes, great food, and special Haggis Ceremony and gift.
Hotel: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
Day 8 : Dunedin - Mt Cook - Twizel
Farewell Dunedin and travel to Oamaru famous for its limestone. Follow the Waitaki River and see Lake Benmore as you continue to marvel at Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available to enjoy a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the Southern Alps. Continue to Twizel for your overnight stay.
Hotel: MacKenzie Country Hotel
Day 9: Twizel - Christchurch
Continue to Lake Tekapo and view the brilliant turquoise water. Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and see the Sheep Dog Statue, before continuing to Christchurch. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with your new found friends.
Hotel: Sudima Hotel Christchurch Airport
Day 10: Christchurch
Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
What's Included
-
Meals
9 breakfasts, 8 dinners including 3 speciality dinners, 1 picnic lunch and 1 delicious Devonshire Tea
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Accommodation
4*
Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
First Class Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 89 days before departure.
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