If there was a tick list for things to do in New Zealand's South Island this tour fills every box. Looping from Christchurch you will travel in comfortable small buses with leading providers and like minded travel companions to see, Queenstown, Milford Sound, the West Coast and the TranzAlpine Scenic Train. If you have more than 8 days available why not let us help you customize this tour to suit your needs. We could add a night in Queenstown, help you get on the glacier in Franz Josef or just give you more time to soak it all up and unwind.
Independent tour (bus & coach)
This suggested tour costs from NZD$4,805 per person (twin share, low season)
Starts in Christchurch, finishes in Christchurch
8 days/7 nights
Hotel 4 star
Customisable? YES
Viewed 515 times in the last 7 days
Day 1: Welcome to New Zealand
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch
Day 2: Christchurch to Mt Cook National Park to Queenstown
Accommodation: Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Day 3: Free day to explore Queenstown
Accommodation: Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Day 4: Milford Sound day tour
Accommodation: Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Day 5: Queenstown to Fox Glacier
Accommodation: Te Weheka Resort
Day 6: Explore Fox Glacier
Accommodation: Te Weheka Resort
Day 7: Fox Glacier to Greymouth train station, Tranz Alpine train to Christchurch
Accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch
Day 8: Farewell from New Zealand
Christchurch New Zealand's garden city is steadily being transformed into a vibrant urban destination. Encompassing a large green belt, it is known for its wide tree lined avenues and lush gardens. A great way to explore the city or easy way to see the sights or ride the historic trams across town to the renowned botanic gardens and the unique cardboard Transitional Cathedral, that's right it is built of cardboard!
On arrival, you will be met by a private driver and transferred to your Christchurch accommodation.
A half day sightseeing tour of Christchurch highlighting both the damage to the city inflicted by several large earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 and the r...
Read moreA half day sightseeing tour of Christchurch highlighting both the damage to the city inflicted by several large earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 and the rebuild which is currently in progress, together with the surviving beauty of the city and the historical landmarks. Experience the grand architecture, beautiful gardens and scenic viewpoints on a half-day city tour of Christchurch.
The tour commences in the central city of Christchurch and covers the area which was completely devastated by the Christchurch earthquakes in February 2011. The guide will explain both the history of the city and the effects of the earthquake. On leaving the inner city, the tour travels to Mona Vale a historic homestead and gardens. Then you will travel to the Sign of the Takahe, a historic building with a lookout providing spectacular views over the city, Canterbury Plains and to the Southern Alps. The tour then travels via the Port Hills and Lyttleton Harbour by way of the Sign of the Kiwi and Governors Bay to the Port of Lyttleton. The tour proceeds through the Lyttleton harbour tunnel to the seaside suburb of Sumner and cave rock before returning to the central city where the tour will conclude.
Your accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch
This luxury hotel is centrally located in the revitalised Cathedral Square in the heart of the city, a short stroll from the Avon River, Botanical Gardens, Christchurch Casino, Cashel Mall and new Christchurch Convention Centre.What better way to get from Christchurch to Queenstown than a small group, fully-guided day trip that combines all of the key southern highlights such as magnificent views of the famous Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and Tasman Glacier. The famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.
Your accommodation: Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Right in the heart of the action, the Millennium Hotel is just minutes from Queenstown's central shopping and entertainment district. Outdoor activities such as bungy jumping, white water rafting and jet boating are just some of the easily accessible activities nearby in New Zealand's adventure capital.Although celebrated as New Zealand's ‘adventure capital', Queenstown offers far more than a fast-paced, action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic, and scenic wonders. Whether you are looking for a scenic short walk or a longer one, you will find the perfect hike or bike trail in Queenstown. Explore Queenstown Gardens, or try out more challenging trails up to Ben Lomond Walkaway or Queenstown Hill Walking Track. Enjoy iconic views and take Queenstown Gondola up 450 metres to Bob's Peak, or ride on the 100-year-old Steamship - the TSS Earnslaw - to Walter Peak Station for dinner and a farm tour. Browse the waterfront cafes and al fresco restaurants, try out the famous Fergburger, or grab a dessert at Patagonia Chocolates.
Shotover Jet is the only company permitted to operate in the Shotover River Canyons. It's a thrilling ride! Skim past rocky outcrops at close range in...
Read moreShotover Jet is the only company permitted to operate in the Shotover River Canyons. It's a thrilling ride! Skim past rocky outcrops at close range in your Shotover Jet 'Big Red', as you twist and turn through the narrow canyons at breathtaking speeds. And a major highlight - hold tight for the world-famous Shotover Jet full 360-degree spins!
HideHop aboard the Skyline Gondola - the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! From which you can take in the awe-inspiring views of this sp...
Read moreHop aboard the Skyline Gondola - the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! From which you can take in the awe-inspiring views of this spectacular landscape. Sit back and relax as you enjoy panoramic views of The Remarkables, Walter Peak, Cecil Peak, Coronet Peak and the magnificent Lake Wakatipu.
HideYour accommodation: Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Right in the heart of the action, the Millennium Hotel is just minutes from Queenstown's central shopping and entertainment district. Outdoor activities such as bungy jumping, white water rafting and jet boating are just some of the easily accessible activities nearby in New Zealand's adventure capital.Return luxury coach transport from Queenstown to Milford Sound, with a 1 hour 40 minute Cruise along the full length of the fiord. On boarding a Real Journeys luxury glass-roofed coach in Queenstown or Te Anau, you will enjoy a relaxing trip along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Te Anau. The coach driver provides an informative commentary. After a morning tea break in Te Anau, where you have the option of purchasing refreshments, the coach continues along the spectacular Milford Road. There is time for photo stops and short walks along the way. On reaching Milford Sound, you board the modern, spacious vessel for a leisurely cruise in the fiord. The cruise provides excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time is available to enjoy waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and the wildlife. During the cruise your friendly crew provide commentaries in several languages and point out the sights such as Mitre Peak and the Pembroke Glacier.
Your accommodation: Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Right in the heart of the action, the Millennium Hotel is just minutes from Queenstown's central shopping and entertainment district. Outdoor activities such as bungy jumping, white water rafting and jet boating are just some of the easily accessible activities nearby in New Zealand's adventure capital.Leaving Queenstown, travel past picturesque scenery of massive mountain peaks and crystal-clear blue lakes. Travel across the Haast Pass to the other side of the Southern Alps, the landscape changes dramatically. Welcome to the wild and wonderful West Coast, a remote and unspoiled region. Wind your way past native rainforest, rocky coastlines and powerful waterfalls. Your journey concludes in the village of Fox Glacier, your base for exploration of the area.
The mighty Fox is the largest and longest of the magnificent West Coast glaciers. Remarkably, it ends in temperate rainforest, 250 metres above sea level only twelve kilometres from the sea.
There are more peaks at the head of the Fox Glacier than in any other valley in New Zealand.
The Fox Glacier, like all glaciers, advances and retreats. Evidence of the latest surge forward can be seen in the bulging lower ice fall. Alpine Guides has access onto the lower part of the glacier via a secret track that climbs through regenerating native forest. From the track, you will have stunning views into the upper parts of the glacier. Fox Glacier township is the more "laid back" of the twin Glacier Country townships of Fox and Franz Josef, and people often comment on having chosen Fox for its relaxed atmosphere.
An excellent selection of cafés and a wide range of accommodations are available. The township enjoys breathtaking views of New Zealand's highest peaks, Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. Lake Matheson, the famous reflection lake, is a five-minute drive west of Fox Township and historic Gillespie's Beach, known for its crashing surf and distant snow-capped mountains, is only 25 minutes west by car.
Your accommodation: Te Weheka Resort
A modern, purpose built boutique Fox Glacier hotel. Te Weheka Resort provides a balance of luxury, privacy and location, while being only a short stroll to Fox Glacier village.The fly-in, fly-out Helihike combines the excitement of walking on the Fox Glacier with the thrill of helicopter flights. By flying in you are able to access and explore a part of the glacier that is otherwise very difficult to get to. It is here, shunted between two ice falls, that the awesome glacier forces work hardest and often create spectacular ice caves and arches. Equipped with sturdy leather boots, you board the helicopter for your first flight over the awe-inspiring pillars of the lower icefall. Here, the steep ice is in constant motion. You then circle the marvellous upper icefall and the Victoria Falls before landing. Your remote landing site on the ice is an exceptionally beautiful part of the glacier. At this stage, you are outfitted with instep crampons, specially designed by Alpine Guides for these ice conditions and you follow the ice steps cut by the guides as you explore the beautiful formations and ice caves which are seen only here. This trip offers wonderful photographic opportunities. Each departure is a true voyage of exploration; there are so many changing features that the guides always find something new. Ice time, weather permitting, is about 2.5 hours.
Please note that ice features change all the time and no guarantee of specific features can be made.
Your accommodation: Te Weheka Resort
A modern, purpose built boutique Fox Glacier hotel. Te Weheka Resort provides a balance of luxury, privacy and location, while being only a short stroll to Fox Glacier village.Today you’ll head north through the historic gold mining region of Hokitika. Known for its Greenstone (Pounamu) this seaside town has a rich history dating back to the 1860’s. Continue on to Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast and the starting point for the next leg of your journey - the TranzAlpine Scenic Train.
Considered one of the world's great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch. You'll travel across the South Island from the west to the east coast through Arthur's Pass National Park. From the comfort of your carriage see lush beech forest, deep river valleys and the spectacular peaks of the Southern Alps. Descend to the windswept Canterbury Plains before arriving in the city of Christchurch.
On arrival at the Christchurch train station, you will be met by a private driver and transferred to your accommodation.
Your accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch
This luxury hotel is centrally located in the revitalised Cathedral Square in the heart of the city, a short stroll from the Avon River, Botanical Gardens, Christchurch Casino, Cashel Mall and new Christchurch Convention Centre.A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to Christchurch Airport in time for your departing flight.
Starts | Status | Double (2 people sharing) | Single occupancy | You save | ||
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Sep 13, 2024
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 14, 2024
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 15, 2024
(Sunday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 16, 2024
(Monday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 17, 2024
(Tuesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 18, 2024
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 19, 2024
(Thursday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 20, 2024
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 21, 2024
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 22, 2024
(Sunday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 23, 2024
(Monday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 24, 2024
(Tuesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 25, 2024
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 26, 2024
(Thursday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 27, 2024
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 28, 2024
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 29, 2024
(Sunday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Sep 30, 2024
(Monday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$4,805 | NZD$7,650 | |||
Oct 1, 2024
(Tuesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$5,395 | NZD$7,415 | |||
Oct 2, 2024
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$5,395 | NZD$7,415 | |||
Oct 3, 2024
(Thursday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$5,395 | NZD$7,415 | |||
Oct 4, 2024
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$5,395 | NZD$7,415 | |||
Oct 5, 2024
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$5,395 | NZD$7,415 | |||
Oct 6, 2024
(Sunday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$5,395 | NZD$7,415 | |||
Oct 7, 2024
(Monday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$5,395 | NZD$7,415 | |||
Oct 8, 2024
(Tuesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$5,395 | NZD$7,415 | |||
Oct 9, 2024
(Wednesday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$5,395 | NZD$7,415 | |||
Oct 10, 2024
(Thursday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$5,395 | NZD$7,415 | |||
Oct 11, 2024
(Friday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$5,395 | NZD$7,415 | |||
Oct 12, 2024
(Saturday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$5,395 | NZD$7,415 | |||
Oct 13, 2024
(Sunday) |
Enquire Book | NZD$5,395 | NZD$7,415 |