Explore South Island Lakes, Fiords and Alpine Landscapes
Travel from Christchurch to Dunedin, following the coastline and crossing wide braided rivers that flow from the Southern Alps. Continue inland to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland, before experiencing the dramatic beauty of Milford Sound. This journey showcases a rich variety of landscapes, from rugged coastlines to tranquil lakes and towering mountains.
Spend time in Queenstown, surrounded by the Remarkables and the shores of Lake Wakatipu, before travelling through alpine regions to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Highlights include Lake Tekapo’s vivid blue waters and expansive mountain scenery as you return to Christchurch. This itinerary combines natural wonders, scenic travel and iconic South Island experiences .
Inclusions
Accommodation for 3 nights staying in Motels
Electronic Travel Guide and In-Country Support App
The Visitor Promise - Cultural Learning Course
Christchurch to Dunedin by InterCity Coach
Dunedin Coach Stop to Accommodation Transfer
Dunedin to Te Anau Transfer
Milford Sound Cruise from Te Anau and returning to Queenstown with RealNZ - Lunch Included
Gondola Ride with Skyline Queenstown
Queenstown to Christchurch via Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo with Cheeky Kiwi
1 lunch
Itinerary
Day 1: Christchurch to Dunedin
Depart Christchurch and travel south across the expansive Canterbury Plains, where braided rivers and open farmland stretch toward the horizon. Following the coastline, pass through historic towns before arriving in Dunedin, known for its Scottish heritage and striking architecture.
Included: Christchurch to Dunedin by InterCity Coach Journey through a changing landscape of plains, rivers and coastal scenery, with views shaped by glacial activity from the Southern Alps. Along the way, pass through Timaru and Oamaru, the latter famed for its distinctive white stone buildings and heritage charm .
Included: Dunedin Coach Stop to Accommodation Transfer On arrival, enjoy a seamless transfer from the coach stop to your accommodation in the city. This convenient service allows you to settle in quickly and begin exploring Dunedin with ease.
Accommodation: Bella Vista Dunedin
Centrally located, this modern property offers easy access to Dunedin’s shops, restaurants and attractions. Its comfortable, self-contained units provide a practical and relaxing base for your stay.
Day 2: Dunedin to Te Anau
Leave Dunedin and journey inland through Southland’s rich farming landscapes, where rivers and rolling hills define the scenery. Travel toward Te Anau, a peaceful lakeside town and gateway to Fiordland National Park.
Included: Dunedin to Te Anau Transfer Travel through classic rural landscapes, passing towns such as Balclutha and Gore, each with their own regional character and history. The journey offers scenic views of farmland and rivers as you head toward the tranquil shores of Lake Te Anau .
Accommodation: Bella Vista Te Anau
Located within walking distance of the lakefront, this accommodation provides a quiet and comfortable setting. Its convenient location makes it easy to explore Te Anau and enjoy its relaxed atmosphere.
Day 3: Milford Sound to Queenstown
Today’s journey takes you deep into Fiordland, one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking natural regions. Travel along the famous Milford Road before experiencing the dramatic beauty of the fiord itself.
Included: Milford Sound Cruise from Te Anau and return to Queenstown with RealNZ - Lunch Included Travel through alpine scenery to Milford Sound, where towering cliffs and waterfalls create a spectacular setting. Cruise the length of the fiord to the Tasman Sea, enjoying close-up views of natural features and potential wildlife sightings .
Accommodation: Stay 2 nights at Blue Peaks Lodge
Arrive in Queenstown and settle into your centrally located accommodation near the lakefront. This comfortable lodge provides a convenient base for exploring the town and its surroundings.
Meals included: Lunch
Day 4: Queenstown at Leisure
Spend the day exploring Queenstown, a destination renowned for its alpine scenery and vibrant atmosphere. Surrounded by mountains and set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, it offers a wide range of experiences to suit every interest.
Included: Skyline Gondola Ride Take a ride on the Skyline Gondola, ascending high above Queenstown for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lake. From the top, enjoy sweeping vistas of The Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu, offering excellent photo opportunities.
Explore Queenstown Discover Queenstown’s walking trails, gardens and waterfront, or venture further afield for outdoor adventures. Options range from scenic hikes and lake cruises to dining experiences and exploring local shops and cafés.
Queenstown’s mix of natural beauty and lively culture makes it one of New Zealand’s most popular destinations. Whether you prefer relaxation or adventure, there is something here for everyone to enjoy.
Day 5: Queenstown to Christchurch via Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo
Depart Queenstown and travel through the heart of the South Island, where alpine landscapes and glacial valleys create a dramatic backdrop. This scenic journey connects some of the region’s most iconic natural highlights before returning to Christchurch.
Included: Queenstown to Christchurch via Aoraki Mount Cook National Park & Lake Tekapo with Cheeky Kiwi Travel through Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s highest peak, and take in views of glaciers and rugged mountain terrain. Continue to Lake Tekapo, known for its vibrant blue waters and stunning alpine setting, before crossing the Canterbury Plains .