10 Day South Island Spectacular

This morning board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. Travel through spectacular gorges to Arthur’s Pass located in the centre of the Southern Alps. Board your coach and travel to Hokitika, famous for its pounamu (jade), before continuing to Franz Josef where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers.

Stay: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Douglas Wing) (B, D)

See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel via the Haast Pass, an area of stunning natural beauty, before arriving into picturesque Queenstown, a year-round resort situated on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu. This evening is free and you may choose to dine out at one of the many fine restaurants.

Stay: Mercure Queenstown Resort (Lakeview Rooms) (2 nights) (B)

Today is a free day. There are plenty of sightseeing options and your Coach Captain is available to assist. You may wish to enjoy the thrill of a jet boat ride, a heritage tour of the scenic Skippers Canyon, or the helicopter flight of a lifetime. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. On arrival, sit back and relax as you are treated to the best of New Zealand’s high country cuisine in the Colonel’s Homestead. Re-board the TSS Earnslaw for a singalong by the piano as you cruise back to Queenstown. (B, SD)

Enjoy a leisurely start this morning before travelling to Arrowtown, an old gold mining village where you visit the Lakes District Museum. This innovative museum is heavily involved in the protection of the historic buildings scattered around town. Continue to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland. Today you may like to visit the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves (optional).

Stay: Distinction Luxmore Hotel (Deluxe Rooms) (2 nights) (B, D)

Depart Te Anau for a fascinating drive to Milford Sound where you board your launch for a cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy a picnic lunch onboard. This afternoon return to Te Anau where some free time is available. You may like to visit the Fiordland Cinema, specially constructed to screen the locally filmed movie Ata Whenua – Shadowland which will take you on an
unforgettable journey (optional). (B, L, D)

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. Enjoy time to wander around this Garden of International Significance followed by a delicious Devonshire Tea. Tonight a Scottish evening will be presented comprising of bagpipes, great food,
special Haggis Ceremony and gift.

Stay: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City (B, SD)

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. Travel to Twizel for your overnight stay.

Stay: Mackenzie Country Hotel (B, D)

Continue to Lake Tekapo and view the brilliant turquoise water, visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and the sheepdog memorial, before arriving into Christchurch for an informative city tour. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner with your newfound friends.

Stay: Sudima Christchurch (B, SD)

Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday. (B)