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Grand Pacific Tours

Grand Pacific Tours 8 Day Classic Warbirds South Island

Starting in Christchurch this tour will take you on a loop of the south island during which you will experience the TranzApline scenic train, see the rugged west coast and enjoy a 3-day air show in the stunning Wanaka setting.  With a beautiful mountain backdrop, this air show takes place within a natural amphitheatre and attracts many international aviation enthusiasts.

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Quick Itinerary Details

Guided Coach Touring

This suggested tour costs from NZD$5,099 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Christchurch, finishes in Christchurch

8 days/7 nights

Hotel 4 star

 Pre and post tour options? YES

 Viewed 21 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

Entry into Warbirds over Wanaka Airshow
TranzAlpine Rail Journey
7 breakfasts, 6 dinners
price pp from
Was NZD$5,499
Now NZD$5,099
twin share/double
Tour at a glance

Day 1: Arrive Christchurch

Day 2: Christchurch - Arthur’s Pass - Franz Josef

Day 3: Franz Josef - Queenstown

Day 4: Queenstown - Wanaka - Queenstown

Day 5: Warbirds Over Wanaka

Day 6: Warbirds Over Wanaka

Day 7: Queenstown - Christchurch

Day 8: Depart Christchurch

Tour full itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Modern Urban Square with Art Sculpture

On arrival into Christchurch, you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening meet your Tour Leader and travelling companions for dinner.

Staying in Hotel Distinction Christchurch Hotel

  • Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey 4.5 star hotel offers refurbished Classic Rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Grand Pacific Merchandise

Quality merchandise is great value for money and will provide a special memento of your holiday for years to come. Tour jackets and tour caps are avai...

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Quality merchandise is great value for money and will provide a special memento of your holiday for years to come. Tour jackets and tour caps are available for purchase. Merchandise items must be ordered at the time of booking and are not available for purchase in New Zealand

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TranzAlpine train

This morning board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. Travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges as you ascend to Arthur’s Pass located in the centre of the Southern Alps. Board your coach and travel to Hokitika, famousfor its Greenstone before continuing to the township of Franz Josef, where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers.

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

  • Only a breath away from the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier, in the heart of the village and edge of the Westland World Heritage Park, lies the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier offering everything you need to explore this dramatic region in style and comfort. The professional and friendly staff pride themselves on making your stay enjoyable and comfortable.

Aerial View of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu

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

Staying in Hotel Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront (4 nights)

  • Experience tranquillity all year round. Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront sits overlooking the shores of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range, and within walking distance of Queenstown’s central shopping and entertainment area. You will stay in the Superior Room which overlooks the beautiful rose gardens.  This contemporary styled room has all the comforts needed to wind down after a busy day.

Vintage Warplane on Ground

Today you have the choice of either a free day in Queenstown or travelling to Wanaka for the opening day of the Warbirds Over Wanaka Airshow. No flying will occur today, however there may be some practice happening overhead. On the ground check out the static displays which include classic cars and Warhorses (military vehicles), sport aircraft and aviation trade stands. This is also the opportunity to taste wine and food from the Central Otago region.

Staying in Hotel Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront

  • Experience tranquillity all year round. Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront sits overlooking the shores of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range, and within walking distance of Queenstown’s central shopping and entertainment area. You will stay in the Superior Room which overlooks the beautiful rose gardens.  This contemporary styled room has all the comforts needed to wind down after a busy day.

World War II Fighters in Flight

Travel to Wanaka over the next two days where Wanaka Airport will become your home as you are entertained by the world’s best display pilots flying aircraft overhead. Your ticket will gain you access to the Gold Pass Enclosure. Enjoy the ultimate in Airshow luxury as you will be situated on the flight line with grandstand seating and a plush marquee where you can relax in comfort and watch the show from the best seats in the house.

Staying in Hotel Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront

  • Experience tranquillity all year round. Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront sits overlooking the shores of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range, and within walking distance of Queenstown’s central shopping and entertainment area. You will stay in the Superior Room which overlooks the beautiful rose gardens.  This contemporary styled room has all the comforts needed to wind down after a busy day.

Formation Flight of Vintage Trainers

On the final day, all eyes will be in the air as you watch some of the world’s most iconic Warbird aircraft plus modern military machines, aerobatics, sport aircraft and so much more. The aerial action is backed by world-class pyrotechnics when the Airfield is defended by the fighters from an attack by enemy aircraft. The show culminates in a massed Fighter flypast, a sight not to be missed!

Staying in Hotel Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront

  • Experience tranquillity all year round. Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront sits overlooking the shores of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range, and within walking distance of Queenstown’s central shopping and entertainment area. You will stay in the Superior Room which overlooks the beautiful rose gardens.  This contemporary styled room has all the comforts needed to wind down after a busy day.

Lindis Pass

Depart Queenstown and travel north through the dramatic Lindis Pass where the landscape is dominated by tussock grassland and snow-capped mountains. Continue through the Mackenzie country into Christchurch. This evening enjoy dinner with newfound friends and reminisce onmemories shared.

Peaceful River Scene with Punting

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

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Starts Status   Double (2 people sharing) Single occupancy You save  
Mar 31, 2026
(Tuesday)
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was NZD$5,499
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was NZD$6,999
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Grand Pacific Tours 8 Day Classic Warbirds South Island

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