Southern Spectacular

Southern Spectacular

33 Views
10 Days From

$4599

$4009

Southern Spectacular

10 Days Starting and ending in Christchurch, New Zealand

Visiting: Christchurch, Twizel, Dunedin, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Franz Josef, Punakaiki

Tour operator:

Trafalgar

Tour code:

ZCQR2M24

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English
From: $4599 $4009 Operator discount: -$460 Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$130 -13%

NB: Prices correct on 05-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the Southern Spectacular tour, a breathtaking journey through New Zealand's South Island. Begin in Christchurch, exploring its vibrant cityscape before venturing into the serene landscapes of Lake Tekapo and Twizel. Discover the Scottish heritage of Dunedin and the natural wonders of Fiordland National Park, including a thrilling jet boat ride on Lake Manapouri. Cruise the majestic Milford Sound and experience the adventure capital of Queenstown. Traverse the stunning Southern Alps aboard the TranzAlpine train, and marvel at the Pancake Rocks in Punakaiki. Enjoy eco-friendly accommodations and local hospitality, with opportunities to savor regional cuisine and participate in conservation efforts. This tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, ensuring an unforgettable New Zealand experience.

Highlights

  • Explore Lake Manapouri and Pomona Island, and visit a brewery in Greymouth.

  • Discover the cities of Christchurch, Dunedin, and Queenstown.

  • Visit Franz Josef Glacier, historic Arrowtown, and the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki.

  • View the stunning Southern Alps, Lake Tekapo, and Lake Te Anau.

  • Enjoy a scenic cruise on Milford Sound and Lake Wakatipu.

  • Experience the thrill of a jet boat ride on Lake Manapouri in Fiordland National Park.

  • Journey on the iconic TranzAlpine Train across the Southern Alps.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To Christchurch

Location: Christchurch

Accommodation Name: Distinction

Welcome to Christchurch! (Flights to arrive prior to 4pm). Kick off your New Zealand South Island tour in this city that is rebuilding itself after the devastating 2011 earthquake. There’s plenty to see and your hotel near Cathedral Square in the heart of the city is the perfect jumping off point. Meet your Travel Director and travel mates for drinks before a free evening to get to know Christchurch as you like, perhaps exploring the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino, and Cashel Mall.

Day 2: Through Scenic Wonderland To Twizel

Location: Twizel

Accommodation Name: Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Begin your day with a sightseeing tour of Christchurch featuring the Canterbury Museum, Christchurch Earthquake Memorial, Bridge of Remembrance, and streets lined with bars, cafes, and riverside markets. Then go from city to country as you make your way to the quaint farming town of Geraldine. Grab a tasty sample at the famous Talbots Forest Cheese, sit down for lunch, and pop into the cute shops before journeying through the Canterbury Plains to the shores of Lake Tekapo. Afterwards, make a scenic stop at the little stone-hewn Church of the Good Shepherd. Next up, you’re in for a treat as you pull into the lakeside home of Angie and Stan Taylor for a Be My Guest experience over afternoon tea, scones, and stories. Enjoy the Taylors’ insights from a lifetime of farming as well as a bit of real New Zealand hospitality as Angie invites you into her kitchen. You’ll get to watch and learn as she prepares the New Zealand specialty dessert, Pavlova before having a taste for yourself. After this sweet visit, you'll arrive in Twizel for the evening. Soak up the vibe of this cute town and popular holiday destination dining on classic New Zealand fare.

Day 3: Dunedin, City Of Scottish Heritage

Location: Dunedin

Accommodation Name: Scenic Southern Cross

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

A day of epic natural landscapes and cute colonial towns await you on your journey to Scottish inspired Dunedin, travelling along the Waitaki River en route to the quirky town of Oamaru. You'll feel like you’re stepping back into the Victorian era as you stroll the tree-lined streets past white limestone buildings and 19th century architecture. Take a tea break and browse the shops and galleries of traditional crafts before continuing your journey to the city of Dunedin, built as a 'mini Edinburgh' and vibrant university town. You have the rest of the day free to explore more of Dunedin town, or select from some tempting Optional Experiences. You could visit the famous Speight's Brewery, or tour Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle. Later tonight swap stories with the group over dinner in the heart of the city where you’ll be spoilt for choice of fresh seafood or a specialty from the butcher’s block.

Day 4: Te Anau, Gateway To Fiordland

Location: Te Anau

Accommodation Name: Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy plenty of stunning scenery as you make your way through farmlands to Te Anau. Travel through sheep farms into forested, rugged mountains into the Fiordland National Park and the South Island's largest lake to Te Anau. A truly memorable thrill awaits you next, exploring the islands on a jet boat ride down the Waiau River to Lake Manapouri savouring its many tranquil spots. Take in the birds and swimming trout as you learn about this unique environment’s history. This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience is not only scenic but supports the Pomona Island Charitable Trust’s conservation efforts to restore the largest inland island in New Zealand to its natural state where native birds can thrive. If you’re still keen to see more, you could learn more about the area on an Optional Experience to the fascinating, glittering glowworm caves before ending a delightful day with dinner at your hotel.

Day 5: Milford Sound Contrasts With Queenstown

Location: Milford Sound

Accommodation Name: Millennium

Meals Included: Breakfast

Begin your day travelling through Fiordland National Park past native rainforests, beech forests, alluvial flats, and meadows. Passing Mirror Lakes, catch the reflection of the surrounding mountains shimmering in the water. Wind your way through the Homer Tunnel, where the sheer rocky ranges have been cut through, to the Cleddau Valley. Then get right in the middle of the stunning scenery cruising the tranquil waters of the Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Watch Bowen and Stirling Falls cascade from hanging valleys into the sea and the sheer pinnacle of Mitre Peak rising from the deep waters of the fiord. With photo ops at every turn and maybe a fur seal or two popping up, it’s a gorgeous afternoon on Milford Sound and a must-do experience on your New Zealand South Island tour. On arrival, excitement is sure to be at an all-time high as we arrive in the adventure capital of Queenstown at your picturesque hotel on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

Day 6: Queenstown, It's All Yours

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation Name: Millennium

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore Queenstown that you’ve been dreaming of today with plenty of adventure-filled Optional Experiences to choose from. Join a tour to Skippers Canyon, or go for maximum adventure riding the adrenaline pumping Skippers Jet. This evening it’s time to relax and Dive Into Culture on a cruise aboard New Zealand's oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm. You’ll be warmly greeted at the Colonel's Homestead by a gourmet barbecue dinner piled high with ribs and fresh vegetables. Sit back and be entertained by an after-dinner farm show, complete with sheep dogs in action, that will give you a glimpse into high country farm life. After a fun-filled evening at the homestead, board the Earnslaw and head back to Queenstown, maybe taking a spin on their polished wooden dance floor.

Day 7: Spectacular Franz Josef

Location: Franz Josef

Accommodation Name: Scenic Franz Josef Glacier

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

It’s a day of epic scenery into untamed wilderness as you head through Central Otago to the West Coast. Your first stop is the restored gold mining settlement of Arrowtown. As you walk down its tree-lined avenues and have a look at the 19th-century wooden buildings, you’ll feel as if you’re in a movie set of the Old West. You’ll then travel to Cromwell on the shores of Lake Dunstan for a visit to Mrs. Jones' Fruit Stall. Take a break sampling of some of the town's juicy stone fruit including apricots, nectarines and peaches before journeying further into Central Otago where the vivid blue waters and willow-lined shoreline of Lakes Hawea and Wanaka call. Take to an ancient greenstone trail, cross Haast Pass, and bid farewell to the alpine scenery of the Southern Lakes as you meet the rainforests of the West Coast for the first time. Stunning scenes await as you approach your destination of the famous Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere. Perhaps join an optional helicopter flight for unforgettable views of take in its majesty from the ground.

Day 8: Punakaiki, Coastal Forest

Location: Punakaiki

Accommodation Name: Scenic Punakaiki

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Awaken to a day filled with natural and man-made beauty. You have time to explore Franz Josef/Waiau, perhaps visiting the West Coast Wildlife Centre to see kiwi birds, before traveling to Hokitika for a lunch break. Then soak in the natural surroundings as you head to Punakaiki to view the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Standing at the water’s edge, you’ll be amazed at how these eroded limestone foundations that began forming 30 million years ago really do look like a stack of pancakes! As you marvel at nature’s creation, listen closely for a 'whoosh' of water - that's a burst of sea spray coming through the blowholes. Take in the sights, sounds, and sea air before making your way to the eco-friendly, Stays With Stories waterfront Scenic Hotel Punakaiki, where you’ll dine on seafood and local specialties and wine as the surf rolls and churns just outside your window.

Day 9: Christchurch, City Of Contrasts

Location: Christchurch

Accommodation Name: Distinction

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

The grand adventures continue on your last full day in New Zealand. Begin at Greymouth’s Monteith's Brewery where a Local Specialist shares the history and stories of this iconic brand founded in 1868. Sample some of their ever-changing, innovative brews like the summer ale and crushed pear cider before sitting down to a pub-style lunch. Full and happy, it’s 'all aboard' the scenic TranzAlpine train to Christchurch - one of the world’s most famous train trips. This 223-kilometre journey across the South Island along the Waimakariri River and across the Southern Alps takes you through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, icy rivers, beech forests, gorges, and river valleys. What better way to conclude your scenic travels across the South Island? This evening, celebrate a wonderful journey through the South Island at a Farewell Dinner with your Travel Director and travel companions.

Day 10: Farewell Christchurch

Location: Christchurch

Meals Included: Breakfast

It’s been a beautiful time but sadly all good things must come to an end. Your New Zealand South Island tour concludes this morning after breakfast with a fond farewell before your transfer to the Christchurch Airport (flights anytime).

What's Included

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

    The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver.

  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

    Accommodation is provided in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted.

  • Porterage where hotels provide this service

    Porterage is included where hotels provide this service.

  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

    Daily breakfast and up to half of your evening meals are included in the tour.

  • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

    The tour includes must-see sightseeing and surprise extras.

  • All land transport shown. All transfers shown

    All land transport and transfers as shown in the itinerary are included.

  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

    Travel in luxury with a fully air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, or alternative transportation such as rail journeys.

  • Optional Experiences and free time

    The tour includes optional experiences and free time for personal exploration.

What's Not Included

  • Flights

    Flights to and from the tour starting point are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • Optional Experiences

    While some optional experiences are available, they are not included in the tour price and may incur additional costs.

Dining Summary

9 Breakfast (B)1 Be My Guest (BMG)5 Dinner (D)1 Regional Dinner (RD)1 Lunch (L)1 Farewell Dinner (FD)

Dive Into Culture

Walter Peak: Get up close to sheep and working dogs with a farm show at Walter Peak on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in the New Zealand high country.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the Southern Spectacular tour?

    The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as a jet boat ride on Lake Manapouri, a Be My Guest afternoon tea with former farmers Angie and Stan Taylor at Lake Tekapo, and a scenic cruise on Milford Sound. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to stay at an eco-friendly retreat in Punakaiki and enjoy a farm show at Walter Peak.

  • How does the tour support conservation efforts?

    The tour supports conservation efforts through the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, which includes a jet boat ride on Lake Manapouri. This experience supports the Pomona Island Charitable Trust's efforts to restore the largest inland island in New Zealand to its natural state, providing a sanctuary for native plants and animals.

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    Transportation during the tour includes travel in a luxury, fully air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi. The tour also features scenic rail journeys like the TranzAlpine train and thrilling jet boat rides, offering a diverse and exciting transportation experience.

  • What type of accommodation can I expect on the tour?

    The tour offers accommodation in cherry-picked hotels such as Distinction, Mackenzie Country Inn, Scenic Southern Cross, and Millennium, which provide comfort and unique local insights. Additionally, you will stay at eco-friendly retreats like Scenic Punakaiki, which blend harmoniously with nature.

  • Are meals included in the Southern Spectacular tour?

    Yes, the tour includes breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals. There is also a Be My Guest experience with afternoon tea, a regional dinner, a lunch, and a farewell dinner included in the itinerary.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1947

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Renato Arrieta  

Best tour I joined so far

14-Jan-2023

My first time with Trafalgar and I see no reason why I should not join them again.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
King Ng, Lafayette, California  

Very well planned trip with timely breaks during the coach ride..

08-Nov-2021

It was a well organized tour group and we hit lots of interesting and beautiful scenes. Like our previous trips with Trafalgar, tourists were treated with well manner and professional tour guide/director, making our trip very enjoyable and delightful!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Best of Egypt

14-Jan-2023

We really did see the best of Egypt and beyond. Our tour guide, Mohammad, guided us through the rich history and the urban and rural life of such a unique and delightful country. We felt very safe and pampered.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Marshal Daguio  

Wonderful Best Of Turkey

06-Nov-2021

It was my first time with Trafalgar Tour and I had a wonderful trip from day 1 till the last day. The Tour Director, Yocel Atik is very knowledgeable and Excellent. The health director and coach driver are helpful and supportive as well. The hotels selected were comfortable especially Rixos Hotel and Movenpick Hotel. The Best of Turkey is better than I expected.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Barbara, Canada  

Irish Experience

09-Nov-2021

I am single and travel alone. I always feel secure and well-looked after when I travel with Trafalgar

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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Tuesday - Thursday

Mar 04, 2025 - Mar 13, 2025
$4915 $4284

Operator discount: -$492

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$139

Tuesday - Thursday

Apr 01, 2025 - Apr 10, 2025
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$155

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Apr 15, 2025 - Apr 24, 2025
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Operator discount: -$496

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$141

Tuesday - Thursday

Sep 23, 2025 - Oct 02, 2025
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Operator discount: -$496

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$141

Tuesday - Thursday

Oct 14, 2025 - Oct 23, 2025
$4599 $4009

Operator discount: -$460

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$130

Tuesday - Thursday

Oct 28, 2025 - Nov 06, 2025
$5410 $5240

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$170

Tuesday - Thursday

Nov 11, 2025 - Nov 20, 2025
$4599 $4009

Operator discount: -$460

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$130

Tuesday - Thursday

Nov 25, 2025 - Dec 04, 2025
$4599 $4009

Operator discount: -$460

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$130

Tuesday - Thursday

Dec 09, 2025 - Dec 18, 2025
$4599 $4009

Operator discount: -$460

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$130

Tuesday - Thursday

Dec 23, 2025 - Jan 01, 2026
$4599 $4009

Operator discount: -$460

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$130

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Jan 13, 2026 - Jan 22, 2026
$4599 $4454

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$145

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Jan 27, 2026 - Feb 05, 2026
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$145

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$145

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Feb 24, 2026 - Mar 05, 2026
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$145

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Mar 17, 2026 - Mar 26, 2026
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$145

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$145

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$174

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$174

Tuesday - Thursday

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$5670 $5491

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$179

Tuesday - Thursday

Oct 27, 2026 - Nov 05, 2026
$5670 $5491

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$179

Tuesday - Thursday

Nov 10, 2026 - Nov 19, 2026
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$179

Tuesday - Thursday

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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$179

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Dec 08, 2026 - Dec 17, 2026
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$179

Tuesday - Thursday

Dec 22, 2026 - Dec 31, 2026
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Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$179

Tuesday - Thursday

Jan 26, 2027 - Feb 04, 2027
$5670 $5491

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$179

Tuesday - Thursday

Feb 09, 2027 - Feb 18, 2027
$5670 $5491

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$179

Tuesday - Thursday

Feb 23, 2027 - Mar 04, 2027
$5670 $5491

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$179

Tuesday - Thursday

Mar 16, 2027 - Mar 25, 2027
$5670 $5491

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$179

Tuesday - Thursday

Mar 30, 2027 - Apr 08, 2027
$5670 $5491

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$179

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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