12 Day The Southern Drift

Traverse the verdant Canterbury Plains and snow-capped Southern Alps on board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one
of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. Witness more epic scenery as you board your coach at Arthur’s Pass. Later, admire the vivid hues of greenstone (jade) on a visit to Hokitika for demonstration by a local caver. Today’s final stop is the extraordinary Franz Josef Glacier, where you’ll spend the night in an eco-friendly
retreat in the pristine wilderness, with an emphasis on relaxation and rejuvenation.

Stay: Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Franz Josef (B, D)

After a relaxed start we explore this area, where a local guide explains the history behind the mighty Franz Josef Glacier. Later, you may want to get up close and personal with the glaciers on an optional helicopter flight. Your flight will hover over the snow face and may land high up in the valley so that you can walk across
the ice fall – subject to weather conditions. (B)

This morning it’s time for an adventure as we travel in a purpose-built fully enclosed river jet boat and journey down the Haast River. After a lunch stop at Makarora we head to Queenstown, taking time to stop to explore the historic gold-mining village of Arrowtown on the Arrow River. The adventure capital awaits you for your extended 3 night stay, and you’ll have the opportunity to explore it during an orientation tour when you
arrive.

Stay: St Moritz (3 nights) (B, D)

Today, select your choice of sightseeing: consider a day indulging in the region’s vintages on a wine tour. View the Lord of Rings film locations and scenery of Queenstown, and Glenorchy on a scenic tour, or spend time in the spa indulging in a relaxing massage (B)

Make the most of your extended stay in Queenstown. Why not sit back and enjoy a peaceful cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard New Zealand’s oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak Station. Otherwise, you
could simply relax, shop or enjoy time at one of the many cafés and restaurants while soaking up the alpine views. Tonight, we have a highlight dinner at one of Queenstown’s exclusive restaurants. (B, D)

Venture to Te Anau and then deep within the Fiordland National Park. Drive through the hand-hewn Homer Tunnel and emerge into a photographer’s paradise where glaciers and peaks give way to the unexpected beauty of Mirror Lake. You’ll stop to explore the wonder of the Chasm Walk before arriving at Milford Sound Lodge, with its exquisite views of the Cleddau Valley.

Stay: Milford Sound Lodge (2 nights) (B, D)

Wake up to the startling beauty of Milford Sound. This morning, board the Southern Discoveries vessel for a half day exploration of Milford Sound. Sail out to the Tasman sea looking for wildlife and an opportunity to go sea kayaking in Harrisons Cove. (B, L, D)

We leave the majestic Fiordland National Park for the fertile sheep-dotted pastures of South Otago. Travel through Te Anau known for its beautiful lake and on to the country musical town of Gore at lunchtime, before arriving in Dunedin, New Zealand’s southernmost city. Enjoy dinner tonight at Parcels Restaurant at your hotel.

Stay: Distinction Hotel, Dunedin (2 nights) (B, D)

This morning, join an exclusive tour of Larnach Castle. Your afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps ride the historic Tairei Gorge Railway or take a wildlife cruise of the Otago Peninsula. (B)

Travel up the east coast of the South Island via Omarau and Timaru. Once back in Christchurch embark on a sightseeing tour of the city to learn about its rebirth after the devastating 2011 earthquake. This evening, toast your trip at a Celebration Dinner with your new-found friends and Journey Director.

Stay: Hotel Montreal, Christchurch (B, D)

Say farewell to your fellow travellers as your Inspiring Journey comes to an end and we transfer you to Christchurch Airport for your onward flight. (B)