South Island Discovery - 10 days

South Island Discovery - 10 days

tourhub | On The Go Tours | South Island Discovery - 10 days | 2798/SOIDI
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10 Days From

$4805

$4565

South Island Discovery - 10 days

10 Days Starting and ending in Christchurch, New Zealand

Visiting: Christchurch, Fox Glacier, Wanaka, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Twizel

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 16

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

Interests:

Eco Conscious, Rail Tours, Wildlife Tours

Activities:

Boat/Cruise Excursion, Walking

From: $4805 $4565 Operator discount: -$240

NB: Prices correct on 22-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a 10-day South Island Discovery tour in New Zealand, starting and ending in Christchurch. Experience the charm of Christchurch with a punting cruise and heritage tram ride. Journey through the Southern Alps on the iconic Tranz-Alpine rail to Greymouth, and explore the stunning landscapes of Fox Glacier and Lake Matheson. In Wanaka, choose between an eco-tour or a 4WD adventure. Discover the historic gold rush village of Arrowtown and the breathtaking Milford Sound with a scenic cruise. Conclude your adventure in Queenstown, where you can indulge in thrilling activities or relax by Lake Wakatipu. Enjoy comfortable stays in 4-star hotels and savor local cuisine, all while being guided by expert local guides.

Highlights

  • Christchurch – Explore the city with punting on the River Avon and a heritage tram ride.

  • Tranz-Alpine Rail Journey - Cross the Southern Alps and enjoy breathtaking scenery.

  • Wanaka - Choose between an ecological tour on Lake Wanaka or a 4X4 countryside excursion.

  • Te Anau - Discover the gateway to Fiordland National Park beside the largest lake on the South Island.

  • Milford Sound - Experience a cruise through Fiordland National Park, watching for dolphins.

  • Queenstown – Conclude your journey in this vibrant city on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

  • Visit the historic gold rush village of Arrowtown nestled beneath majestic peaks.

  • Admire the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd against the backdrop of the Southern Alps.

Itinerary

tourhub | On The Go Tours | South Island Discovery - 10 days | 2798/SOIDI | Route Map

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Day 1: Christchurch

Location: Christchurch

Accommodation Name: Distinction Christchurch Hotel

Arriving in Christchurch you will be met and transferred to your accommodation. This afternoon we will join punting boatmen in traditional Edwardian dress for a leisurely River Avon cruise through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. We then enjoy a stylish journey on a heritage tram through the ever-changing city centre.





Please note: The included activities for this tour begin in the early afternoon on day 1. Please ensure you arrive in Christchurch in time to begin the tour.

Day 2: Christchurch

Location: Fox Glacier

Accommodation Name: Distinction Fox Glacier Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Christchurch – Fox Glacier. Today we embark on the renowned Tranz-Alpine rail journey through the Southern Alps to Greymouth. We'll see the vast Canterbury Plains and farmland which is followed by the breathtaking gorges and valleys of the Waimakariri River. We then ascend into the Southern Alps which we then cross to reach the lush rainforests of Westland before concluding the journey at the town of Greymouth.





Driving further south we visit the town of Hokitika and its galleries of greenstone jewellery and artwork. Continuing to Hokitika Gorge we stretch our legs and discover the blue/green waters that pass through the rugged rocks. Following the road south we reach Franz Josef and then on to the Village of Fox which is where the huge rivers of snow and ice of the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers flow from vast snowfields high in the Southern Alps, down almost to sea level. If the weather allows there is the option of a helicopter ride over the glaciers at an extra cost.

Day 3: Fox Glacier

Location: Fox Glacier

Accommodation Name: Edgewater Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Fox Glacier – Wanaka. First thing today we visit nearby Lake Matheson which, when weather conditions are just right, perfectly mirrors Mount Cook in its waters creating a stunning visual effect. From here we head up over the Haast Past along the river road, which took more than 40 years to complete, travelling deep into Mt Aspiring National Park to Lake Wanaka and the picturesque resort town of Wanaka.

Day 4: Wanaka

Location: Wanaka

Accommodation Name: Edgewater Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your choice of activity today must be made at the time of booking. Please let our Reservations team know which included activity you would like to partake in.





Today we have a choice of two included excursions. Option 1 sees you join an eco tour. Depart Wanaka by boat and escape civilisation as we cruise to an island where we hike through vibrant native vegetation to find a hidden mountaintop lake surrounded by small islands. We trek on to reach the island's summit for a 360-degree view of Lake Wanaka, its mountains and valleys, and the Arethusa Pool. Look out for the rare Buff Weka, a flightless bird extinct on Mainland NZ since 1920, which often joins visitors.





Option 2 is a 4WD adventure. We will explore a perfect mix of stunning scenery, history, and farm life in New Zealand's High Country. We will traverse remote back roads on an authentic farm with Lake Wanaka as our backdrop, surrounded by nature's beauty. We get up close to farm animals and visit historical sites, all while enjoying optional hikes through alpine meadows and lakeside forests, offering a unique insight into Wanaka's history, heritage, modern farming, and breathtaking landscapes.





When we return to Wanaka we have the afternoon at leisure to relax or enjoy the town.

Day 5: Wanaka

Location: Te Anau

Accommodation Name: Distinction Luxmore Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wanaka – Te Anau. We begin our day from Wanaka, stopping at the iconic Cardrona Pub. Then we venture through the Crown Range road to explore historic Arrowtown, a charming gold rush village nestled beneath majestic peaks near the Arrow River. We carry on along the scenic road between the Remarkables mountain range and stunning Lake Wakatipu before traversing a glacial valley turned farmland to reach Lake Te Anau, the South Island's largest freshwater lake and the entry point to Fiordland National Park.

Day 6: Te Anau

Location: Milford Sound

Accommodation Name: Scenic Suites Queenstown

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Te Anau – Queenstown. The journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound is one of the most scenic drives you can experience. Fiordland National Park, part of the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area is awe-inspiring, and features towering mountains and deep valleys sculpted by ancient glaciers. Milford Sound, famously dubbed the 'eighth wonder of the world' by Rudyard Kipling, is a breathtaking destination in any weather.





Following this we embark on a comfortable cruise, passing the iconic Mitre Peak to reach the Tasman Sea. Keep a lookout for seals and dolphins, which often grace the fiord's waters. After the cruise we retrace our route back to Te Anau and then journey through the Southland farmlands and circle the stunning Lake Wakatipu to reach Queenstown.

Day 7: Queenstown

Location: Queenstown

Accommodation Name: Scenic Suites Queenstown

Meals Included: Breakfast

Nestled amid majestic mountains and on the pristine shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown's natural beauty and unique ambiance provide an ideal setting for a visit filled with adventure, exploration, or relaxation. Today, we have the freedom to choose our own activities: thrill-seekers might opt for activities like zip-lining at Bob's Peak, a heart-pounding Shotover jet-boat ride, or white-water rafting. For those of us seeking a more leisurely experience, we can enjoy a gondola ride to Bob's Peak or embark on a 4WD safari to Skippers Canyon. Queenstown also offers boutique wineries, local gardens, and a chance to cruise Lake Wakatipu on the elegant steamship TSS Earnslaw for a visit to Walter Peak High Country Farm.

Day 8: Queenstown

Location: Twizel

Accommodation Name: Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Queenstown – Twizel. This morning we head north through Kawarau Gorge and past the scenic Lake Dunstan. We cross the Central Otago Countryside to the Lindis Pass where we descend into the Mackenzie Basin where the Southern Alps dominate the horizon. We enjoy a picturesque drive along Lake Pukaki to arrive at Mt. Cook Village, nestled at the base of New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mt. Cook. Our overnight stay awaits in the charming town of Twizel.

Day 9: Twizel

Location: Christchurch

Accommodation Name: Distinction Christchurch Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Twizel – Christchurch. Today we get to experience Kiwi culture by visiting a local home on Lake Tekapo's shores to learn the art of making Pavlova, a beloved New Zealand dessert. We enjoy our Pavlova during morning tea, taking in the stunning lake views. We admire the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, beautifully situated against the backdrop of the Southern Alps. Continuing our journey through the high country's tussock plains, passing through charming towns like Fairlie and Geraldine, en route to Ashburton we then travel across the fertile Canterbury Plains to reach Christchurch, a city that combines post-earthquake regeneration with a rich blend of heritage, culture, and innovation.

Day 10: Christchurch

Location: Christchurch

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today our adventure in New Zealand comes to an end. A transfer takes you to Christchurch Airport for your flight home.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    4-star hotels

  • 9 breakfasts & 1 lunch

    Enjoy 9 breakfasts and 1 lunch during your tour.

  • 9 nights 4 star hotels

    Stay in 4-star hotels for 9 nights throughout the tour.

  • Airport arrival and departure transfers on day 1 and day 10

    Airport transfers are provided on the first and last day of the tour.

  • Escorted by an expert local guide/driver with specialist local guides at some sites

    The tour is escorted by an expert local guide/driver, with specialist local guides at certain sites.

  • All relevant transfers and transportation in modern air-conditioned vehicle

    All transfers and transportation are provided in a modern air-conditioned vehicle.

  • Tranz-Alpine rail journey from Christchurch - Greymouth

    Experience the Tranz-Alpine rail journey from Christchurch to Greymouth.

  • Christchurch Edwardian punt & heritage tram experience

    Enjoy a punt and heritage tram experience in Christchurch.

  • Local eco-guided tour or an authentic 4WD adventure at Wanaka

    Choose between a local eco-guided tour or a 4WD adventure in Wanaka.

  • Tour historic gold rush village of Arrowtown

    Visit and tour the historic gold rush village of Arrowtown.

  • Milford Sound cruise & lunch

    Enjoy a cruise and lunch at Milford Sound.

show more

What's Not Included

  • International flights and visas

    International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.

  • Items of a personal nature (telephone calls, laundry, travel insurance etc)

    Personal items such as telephone calls, laundry, and travel insurance are not included.

  • Optional activities

    Optional activities are not included in the tour package.

  • Tip for your tour guide / driver

    Tips for your tour guide/driver are not included.

    It is recommended to allow $4 - 7 USD per day per traveler.

Accommodation

Experience comfort and style at the Distinction Christchurch Hotel, Distinction Fox Glacier Hotel, Edgewater Hotel, Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Scenic Suites Queenstown, and Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel. Each offers modern amenities, stunning views, and excellent facilities, including restaurants and bars, ensuring a relaxing stay amidst New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes.

Age Policy

18+The average age of passengers on these tours is between 55-75yrs. Pure Discoveries do not permit children.

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with airport transfers, a modern air-conditioned vehicle, and the renowned Tranz-Alpine rail journey. Enjoy a scenic cruise on Milford Sound and explore Christchurch with an Edwardian punt and heritage tram experience, ensuring a seamless and memorable journey through New Zealand's South Island.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation can I expect during the South Island Discovery tour?

    During the South Island Discovery tour, you will stay in 4-star hotels such as the Distinction Christchurch Hotel, Distinction Fox Glacier Hotel, Edgewater Hotel in Wanaka, Distinction Luxmore Hotel in Te Anau, Scenic Suites Queenstown, and Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel in Twizel. These hotels offer modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and facilities like restaurants, bars, and fitness centers.

  • Are there any included meals during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes 9 breakfasts and 1 lunch. Meals are provided at various points throughout the tour, ensuring you have a chance to enjoy local cuisine.

  • What activities are included in the tour at Wanaka?

    In Wanaka, you have a choice between two included activities. Option 1 is an eco tour where you cruise to an island and hike to a mountaintop lake. Option 2 is a 4WD adventure exploring remote back roads and farm life in New Zealand's High Country.

  • Is there a guided component to the tour?

    Yes, the tour is escorted by an expert local guide/driver, and there are specialist local guides at some sites to enhance your experience and provide in-depth knowledge about the locations you visit.

  • What is the age policy for the South Island Discovery tour?

    The tour is designed for adults aged 18 and over, with the average age of passengers being between 55-75 years. Children are not permitted on this tour.

  • What is the transportation like during the tour?

    All relevant transfers and transportation are provided in a modern air-conditioned vehicle. Additionally, the tour includes a Tranz-Alpine rail journey from Christchurch to Greymouth.

  • What is the highlight of the Milford Sound visit?

    The highlight of the Milford Sound visit is a comfortable cruise through the fiord, passing the iconic Mitre Peak and reaching the Tasman Sea. You may also spot seals and dolphins in the waters.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Simla Patel (Google Reviewer)  

This company doesn’t deserve even...

26-Nov-2024

This company doesn’t deserve even 1 star. I would not recommend this company. There are hidden fees which means the cost of the holiday ends up being very expensive. We recently came back from our trip to China where it is not customary to tip in restaurants & hotel staff. Yet we had to make a payment upfront in cash to to the guide for more than £100. The hotel service was appalling. Just think £100 from each person. The trip was suppose to be a Tour yet we had to pay for all entrance fees. We complained about the poor condition of the hotels but no one responded to our emails to date. The after sales service is non existent. Do not use this company. Far far too expensive for what you get. Not competitive at all. They messed up our booking; repeatedly asked for the same information. We spent so much time correcting their errors. Very difficult to get hold of anyone because they all work in S Africa or New Zealand. Absolute nightmare

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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Jan 20, 2025 - Jan 29, 2025
$5475 $5201

Operator discount: -$274

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Operator discount: -$274

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Operator discount: -$274

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Operator discount: -$274

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Operator discount: -$274

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$5135 $4878

Operator discount: -$257

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$4805 $4565

Operator discount: -$240

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$5575 $5296

Operator discount: -$279

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Nov 03, 2025 - Nov 12, 2025
$5575 $5296

Operator discount: -$279

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$5915 $5619

Operator discount: -$296

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$5915 $5619

Operator discount: -$296

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Jan 26, 2026 - Feb 04, 2026
$5915 $5619

Operator discount: -$296

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$5915 $5619

Operator discount: -$296

Monday - Wednesday

Feb 23, 2026 - Mar 04, 2026
$5915 $5619

Operator discount: -$296

Monday - Wednesday

Mar 09, 2026 - Mar 18, 2026
$5915 $5619

Operator discount: -$296

Monday - Wednesday

Mar 23, 2026 - Apr 01, 2026
$5915 $5619

Operator discount: -$296

Monday - Wednesday

Apr 06, 2026 - Apr 15, 2026
$5575 $5296

Operator discount: -$279

Monday - Wednesday

Apr 27, 2026 - May 06, 2026
$5575 $5296

Operator discount: -$279

Prices last published on 22-Dec-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Enquire for huge savings

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