Discover Iconic Landscapes from Christchurch to Queenstown and Beyond
Travel from Christchurch through the heart of the South Island, passing turquoise lakes and alpine landscapes on your way to Queenstown. Highlights include the stunning Lake Tekapo and the dramatic peaks of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, home to the country’s highest mountain. This scenic journey showcases some of the most photographed and awe-inspiring locations in New Zealand.
Continue your adventure with a visit to Milford Sound, where towering cliffs, waterfalls and rainforest create a breathtaking natural setting. Journey onward to Dunedin via the historic Taieri Gorge Railway, then return to Christchurch along the rugged Otago coastline. This diverse itinerary combines natural beauty, wildlife and heritage experiences for a memorable South Island escape .
Inclusions
Accommodation for 3 nights staying in Motels
Electronic Travel Guide and In-Country Support App
The Visitor Promise - Cultural Learning Course
Christchurch to Queenstown via Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park & Tekapo with Cheeky Kiwi - Lunch Included
Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Tour from Queenstown with RealNZ - Lunch Included
Queenstown to Dunedin including Taieri Gorge Train with Cheeky Kiwi Travel
Dunedin Accommodation to Coach Stop Transfer
Dunedin to Christchurch by InterCity Coach
Itinerary
Day 1: Christchurch to Queenstown
Depart Christchurch and journey through the expansive Canterbury Plains, where wide-open landscapes stretch toward the Southern Alps. As you travel inland, alpine scenery begins to dominate, leading you toward some of the South Island’s most iconic natural highlights before arriving in Queenstown.
Included: Christchurch to Queenstown via Lake Tekapo & Aoraki Mount Cook - Lunch Included Visit the stunning Lake Tekapo, famous for its vivid turquoise waters and mountain backdrop, before continuing into Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of alpine peaks and glacial landscapes, with expert commentary bringing the region’s history and geography to life .
Accommodation: Stay 2 nights at Blue Peaks Lodge
Located just a short walk from Queenstown’s lakefront, this comfortable lodge offers easy access to the town’s vibrant dining and activity scene. Its elevated position provides pleasant views and a relaxing base after a full day of scenic travel.
Meals included: Lunch
Day 2: Milford Sound Day Trip
Today’s journey takes you deep into Fiordland, one of New Zealand’s most dramatic and remote regions. Travel along scenic alpine roads and through lush valleys on your way to one of the country’s most famous natural wonders.
Included: Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Tour from Queenstown with RealNZ - Lunch Included Travel beside Lake Wakatipu and through Te Anau before continuing along the spectacular Milford Road to Milford Sound. Cruise through the fiord surrounded by towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls and rainforest, with opportunities to spot wildlife in this breathtaking environment.
Return to your Queenstown accommodation after a full day of exploration and relax in comfortable surroundings. Its central location allows you to easily enjoy the town’s evening atmosphere.
Meals included: Lunch
Day 3: Queenstown to Dunedin via Taieri Gorge Railway
Leave the alpine resort town of Queenstown and travel through the historic landscapes of Central Otago. This journey combines rugged scenery with a unique rail experience before arriving in Dunedin.
Included: Queenstown to Dunedin including Taieri Gorge Train Travel through dramatic gorges and past historic gold mining towns before boarding the iconic Taieri Gorge Railway. This scenic rail journey offers a unique perspective of remote landscapes, carrying you through tunnels and across viaducts into Dunedin .
Accommodation: Motel on York
Situated in central Dunedin, this modern accommodation places you within easy walking distance of cafés, restaurants and key attractions. Its convenient location makes it a great base for exploring the city.
Day 4: Dunedin to Christchurch
Begin your final day with a transfer to the coach stop before travelling north along the scenic east coast. This journey offers a mix of coastal views, historic towns and expansive plains as you return to Christchurch.
Included: Dunedin Accommodation to Coach Stop Transfer Enjoy a smooth and convenient transfer from your accommodation to the coach departure point. This short journey ensures a stress-free start to your day’s travel.
Included: Dunedin to Christchurch by InterCity Coach Travel along the Otago coastline, passing through towns such as Oamaru and Timaru, known for their heritage architecture and coastal charm. Continue across the wide Canterbury Plains, crossing braided rivers before arriving back in Christchurch .
Coach Tours
