12 Day South Island Voyage Self Drive

Arrive in Christchurch and collect your rental car before settling into the city for your first night. Take some time to explore the central city, stroll through the gardens or relax after your journey.

Optional Activity: Christchurch Gondola
Soar above Christchurch on the gondola and enjoy panoramic views across the city, Canterbury Plains, Lyttelton Harbour and the Southern Alps. Take in the spectacular scenery from the summit before exploring the walking trails and viewing areas.

Discover Christchurch at your own pace, from its beautiful gardens and riverside precinct to its vibrant cafés and heritage attractions. Today's included experiences offer a relaxed way to see some of the city's most distinctive sights.

Included: Tram & Punting on the Avon Combo
See Christchurch's central sights aboard its heritage tram before enjoying a peaceful punt along the Avon River. Glide past leafy gardens and historic landmarks while learning more about the city's character and history.

Leave Christchurch behind and journey through the Canterbury Plains towards the spectacular Southern Alps. Arrive beneath Aoraki/Mount Cook, where dramatic mountains and glaciers create an unforgettable alpine setting, before checking in at The Hermitage, located in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

Included: Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre Explorer Pass
Discover the history of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the pioneering spirit of mountaineering through museum exhibits and an immersive 3D experience. Learn about Sir Edmund Hillary and the explorers who have ventured into this remarkable alpine environment.

Continue south through the Mackenzie Basin, passing turquoise lakes, golden tussocklands and rugged mountain ranges. Arrive in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, with the evening free to enjoy its lively lakefront atmosphere.

Optional Activity: Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner 
Cruise across Lake Whakatipu aboard the iconic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm, where a gourmet BBQ dinner awaits at the lakeside Colonel’s Homestead. Enjoy delicious local produce, spectacular alpine views and an entertaining farm demonstration before cruising back to Queenstown.

Head into the remote wilderness of the Dart River, surrounded by towering mountains, native forest and pristine waterways. Today's adventure combines the excitement of jet boating with the unique experience of exploring the river by inflatable kayak.

Included: Dart River Funyaks Safari Adventure
Speed through the Dart River by jet boat before paddling into peaceful side streams and hidden waterways by Funyak. Surrounded by dramatic alpine scenery and native forest, this is an unforgettable way to experience the heart of the Dart River Valley.

Enjoy a full day to experience Queenstown your way, with endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation and sightseeing. Take a scenic walk, browse the boutiques, relax besides Lake Whakatipu or simply enjoy the town's spectacular mountain backdrop.

Included: Skyline Gondola & Buffet Dining at Stratosfare Restaurant
Soar above Queenstown on the Skyline Gondola for breathtaking views across Lake Whakatipu, the Remarkables and surrounding peaks. Enjoy a delicious buffet dinner at Stratosfare Restaurant while taking in one of the region's most spectacular alpine panoramas.

Travel through the South Island's scenic countryside to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Spend the afternoon relaxing besides the lake or exploring the charming township before your Milford Sound adventure tomorrow.

Optional Activity: Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour
Cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Te Anau before exploring a fascinating underground world of rushing streams and sculpted rock formations. Drift silently beneath thousands of glowing worms, creating a magical star-like display deep within the caves.

Journey deep into Fiordland National Park through some of New Zealand's most spectacular wilderness. Towering peaks, ancient rainforest and cascading waterfalls lead to the breathtaking fiord of Milford Sound.

Included: Milford Sound Coach, Cruise & Coach with Seasonal Packed Lunch
Travel through the dramatic landscapes of Fiordland before cruising beneath towering cliffs and past spectacular waterfalls. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins and penguins as you explore one of New Zealand's most iconic natural wonders.

Leave Fiordland behind and travel towards the picturesque alpine town of Wanaka. Framed by mountains and the sparkling waters of Lake Wānaka, this relaxed destination is perfect for enjoying beautiful scenery at a slower pace.

Optional Activity: Mou Waho Island Cruise & Walk
Cruise across Lake Wānaka to the remote Mou Waho Island Nature Reserve, home to native wildlife and spectacular alpine scenery. Enjoy a guided walk to the island's hidden lake and take in panoramic views of Lake Wānaka and the surrounding Southern Alps.

Continue west towards the rugged West Coast, travelling through changing landscapes of mountains, lakes and lush native rainforest. Arrive in Franz Josef and settle into your tranquil forest retreat, surrounded by the wild beauty of the West Coast.

Optional Activity: West Coast Wildlife Centre
Discover New Zealand's unique native wildlife at the West Coast Wildlife Centre in Franz Josef. Learn about kiwi conservation and meet fascinating native species through interactive exhibits and wildlife experiences.

Enjoy the final stretch of your West Coast journey as you travel north to Greymouth, where you'll return your rental car before boarding the TranzAlpine. Cross the Southern Alps on one of the world's great scenic rail journeys, travelling through dramatic mountain landscapes, river valleys and the Canterbury Plains before arriving in Christchurch.

Included: TranzAlpine Scenic Plus Journey
Settle into the Scenic Plus carriage for panoramic views as the train crosses the spectacular Southern Alps. Watch rugged mountains, alpine rivers and sweeping valleys unfold from the comfort of your seat on this iconic rail journey.

Enjoy a final morning in Christchurch, take a leisurely stroll through the city or enjoy breakfast before your departure. Your private transfer will take you to Christchurch Airport for your onward flight, bringing your memorable South Island adventure to a close with memories of alpine landscapes, dramatic fiords, beautiful lakes and unforgettable experiences.