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:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
18-
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
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
Itinerary
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
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Accommodation
4-star hotels -
9 breakfasts & 1 lunch
Enjoy 9 breakfasts and 1 lunch during your tour.
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9 nights 4 star hotels
Stay in 4-star hotels for 9 nights throughout the tour.
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Airport arrival and departure transfers on day 1 and day 10
Airport transfers are provided on the first and last day of the tour.
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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.
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All relevant transfers and transportation in modern air-conditioned vehicle
All transfers and transportation are provided in a modern air-conditioned vehicle.
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Tranz-Alpine rail journey from Christchurch - Greymouth
Experience the Tranz-Alpine rail journey from Christchurch to Greymouth.
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Christchurch Edwardian punt & heritage tram experience
Enjoy a punt and heritage tram experience in Christchurch.
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Local eco-guided tour or an authentic 4WD adventure at Wanaka
Choose between a local eco-guided tour or a 4WD adventure in Wanaka.
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Tour historic gold rush village of Arrowtown
Visit and tour the historic gold rush village of Arrowtown.
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Milford Sound cruise & lunch
Enjoy a cruise and lunch at Milford Sound.
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.
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Items of a personal nature (telephone calls, laundry, travel insurance etc)
Personal items such as telephone calls, laundry, and travel insurance are not included.
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Optional activities
Optional activities are not included in the tour package.
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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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+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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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.
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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.
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