8 Day Wonders of South Island

Arrive in Christchurch and spend the afternoon at leisure, soaking in the relaxed pace of the Garden City. Perhaps take a gentle stroll through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens to admire the beautifully landscaped grounds or if you’re in the mood for shopping, head to the City Mall precinct. There you’ll find a vibrant mix of modern boutiques, local designers, street art, and cosy cafés, perfect for easing into your South Island adventure.

This evening, join our local city guide and explore the city’s thriving culinary scene while meeting your fellow group members. Learn about local culture, discover hidden treasures and experience the many flavours Christchurch has to offer. Enjoy a shared style menu paired with curated premium beverages.

Overnight: Sudima Christchurch ★★★★★
Meals: Dinner

Today you will discover breathtaking scenery as you board the iconic TranzAlpine train, from Christchurch to the high country of the Southern Alps and Arthur’s Pass. Considered one of the world’s most scenic rail experiences, you will journey through the wide expanse of the Canterbury plains and Waimakariri gorge, where the train snakes along viaducts and through tunnels before entering the high country of the Southern Alps. When you reach Arthurs Pass, step off the train and breathe the crisp alpine air. This remote mountain village is surrounded by dramatic peaks and native bush. After lunch, head back to Christchurch via Porters Pass. The road journey offers a different perspective of the alpine region, with panoramic views over hills and glacial valleys.

Overnight: Sudima Christchurch ★★★★★
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

An early start this morning for your journey to Mount Cook. Once you arrive, take a short scenic walk before boarding the Glacier Explorers boat from the Tasman Lake Jetty for a cruise around the Tasman Glacial Lake. Experience New Zealand’s largest glacier, see floating icebergs up close where you may even observe the calving of an iceberg. Take in the awe-inspiring alpine scenery as you glide through the icy waters, surrounded by towering peaks. This unforgettable experience offers a rare glimpse into the raw beauty and power of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

This evening head to Lake Tekapo to join a Big Sky Stargazing tour and learn about the beautiful southern night sky. Observe the Southern Cross, planets, star clusters and the spectacular Milky Way.

Overnight: Peppers Bluewater Resort ★★★★
Meals: BreakfastMeals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, continue your journey to the picture-perfect alpine town of Wanaka, set against the stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakefront, take in the crisp mountain air, and explore the town’s boutique shops and charming cafés. You might want to grab a coffee with a view or visit the famous Wanaka Tree for an early photo opportunity. Soak in the peaceful atmosphere before you join a cruise to Stevensons Island for a short walk to the summit of the island. Learn about the conservation efforts that go into keeping this unique and magical island bird reserve. Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.

Overnight: Oakridge Resort Wanaka ★★★★
Meals: Breakfast

Embark on a picturesque drive by Kinross, a Central Otago winery known for its quality boutique wines. Talented wine advisors will take you on a journey through the world of Otago Wines. Next, head to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. On arrival, check in to the Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa, home for the next three nights.

Tonight, a dining experience like no other awaits you. Cruise across Lake Wakatipu on the iconic TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak High Country Farm and make your way to the lakeside Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant for a gourmet barbecue dinner. Enjoy an entertaining farm demonstration and explore the beautiful lakeside gardens. After dinner, cruise back to Queenstown.

Overnight: Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa ★★★★★
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today, join a guided adventure tour to Milford Sound with highlights including Mirror Lakes, Monkey Creek, Knobs Flat, Homer Tunnel, Christie Falls and The Chasm. Upon arrival, board a small boat for a Milford Sound Nature Cruise and explore stunning scenery and view wildlife including seals, penguins and dolphins. Enjoy lunch as you cruise this magnificent fjord. Take a scenic flight back to Queenstown and witness the panoramic views across the Southern Alps. Finish the day with a scenic gondola ride, taking you 480 metres up over Lake Wakatipu to the top of Bob’s Peak. Enjoy dinner at Stratosfare Restaurant while taking in panoramic views of Queenstown.

Overnight: Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa ★★★★★
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today explore the iconic, untouched landscapes of Dart River Valley on an exhilarating jet boat ride. Journey through the Dart River’s ever-changing braided river system and take in the surroundings of breathtaking snow-capped mountains, ancient native forest, waterfalls and glacier valleys frozen in time. The jet boat ride is followed by an easy 20 minute guided walk through ancient native beach forest.

Late afternoon, make your way into central Queenstown where you will meet your guide for a twilight craft beer and wine tour. Visit three unique locations around Queenstown and Gibbston and sample some of the finest drops in the region. Now, here’s the twist, if beer is more your thing, then bounce from vines to hops and taste some local craft beers instead. Once you have completed the tour, the evening is free to explore Queenstown’s thriving restaurant scene.

Overnight: Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa ★★★★★
Meals: Breakfast

Your unforgettable New Zealand adventure comes to an end after breakfast.

Meals: Breakfast