Experience Iconic South Island Landscapes and Scenic Journeys
Travel from Christchurch through the breathtaking Southern Alps, where braided rivers and wide-open plains lead into dramatic alpine terrain. Continue toward Queenstown, passing glacial lakes and mountain scenery that define the South Island’s natural beauty. This journey introduces you to some of the region’s most iconic landscapes, blending scenic travel with unforgettable viewpoints.
A highlight of the tour is a visit to Milford Sound, where towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls and rainforest create a truly spectacular setting. Along the way, experience charming towns, peaceful lakes and diverse environments that showcase the South Island’s variety. The itinerary combines relaxation and exploration, offering a well-rounded introduction to New Zealand’s southern highlights.
Inclusions
Accommodation for 4 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 - Lunch Included
Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Tour from Queenstown with RealNZ - Lunch Included
Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wānaka Small Group Tour - Lunch Included
Franz Josef to Greymouth Train Station with Hokitika Scenic Tours
TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch
3 lunches
Itinerary
Day 1: Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt Cook
Leave Christchurch and journey south through the wide-open Canterbury Plains, where braided rivers and alpine views set the tone for the days ahead. Along the way, visit the striking turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and continue into Aoraki Mount Cook National Park before arriving in Queenstown.
Included: Christchurch to Queenstown via Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park & Tekapo - Lunch Included This fully guided journey combines some of the South Island’s most iconic scenery in one memorable day, from glacial lakes to rugged alpine peaks. Travelling in a small group allows for a more personal experience, with informative commentary and scenic stops adding depth to the spectacular landscapes.
Queenstown offers a wonderful mix of alpine scenery, lakefront charm and year-round activities to suit every travel style. You might choose to stroll the waterfront, enjoy a scenic cruise, browse local eateries, or simply relax and take in the views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables.
Accommodation: Stay 2 nights at Blue Peaks Lodge
Blue Peaks Lodge offers well-equipped, self-contained rooms in a fantastic location overlooking Queenstown. Just a short walk from the lakefront, it provides a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the town.
Meals included: Lunch
Day 2: Free Day in Queenstown
Today is yours to enjoy in Queenstown, a destination known for its dramatic mountain setting and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you prefer gentle sightseeing or something more adventurous, the town offers a wide variety of experiences surrounded by exceptional natural beauty.
Suggested Activities: Shotover Jet Canyon Jet Boat Ride For a fast-paced thrill, head into the narrow Shotover River Canyons aboard the famous Shotover Jet. This high-energy ride is known for its speed, tight turns and signature 360-degree spins through one of Queenstown’s most dramatic landscapes.
Suggested Activities: Queenstown Skyline Gondola Ride Ride the Skyline Gondola high above Queenstown for sweeping views over Lake Wakatipu, The Remarkables and surrounding peaks. It is a fantastic way to appreciate the scale of the landscape while enjoying one of the best vantage points in the region.
Suggested Activities: TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Lunch This classic Queenstown experience combines a scenic cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw with a gourmet lunch at Walter Peak High Country Farm. Set beside the lake, the experience also includes a farm demonstration or time to explore the beautiful lakeside gardens.
Day 3: Milford Sound Day Trip
Travel deep into Fiordland today, where towering mountains, rainforest and waterfalls create one of New Zealand’s most unforgettable natural environments. The journey itself is part of the experience, with scenic coach travel and photo stops along the way to Piopiotahi / Milford Sound.
Included: Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Tour from Queenstown with RealNZ - Lunch Included Travel by luxury glass-roofed coach beside Lake Wakatipu and through Te Anau before continuing along the spectacular Milford Road. Once in Milford Sound, board your cruise and enjoy excellent views of sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, rainforest and wildlife in this world-famous fiord.
Meals included: Lunch
Day 4: Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wanaka
Leave Queenstown behind and travel north through diverse South Island landscapes, from alpine passes to lakes, river valleys and rainforest. This scenic route to the West Coast reveals a remarkable contrast of environments, with plenty of memorable stops along the way.
Included: Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wānaka Small Group Tour - Lunch Included This journey includes standout sights such as the historic Cardrona Hotel, the famous Wānaka Tree, Lake Hāwea, Thunder Creek Falls and Ship Creek, where rainforest meets the sea. The day finishes in Franz Josef after passing glacial rivers and beautiful Lake Matheson, one of the region’s most photographed locations.
Explore Franz Josef Franz Josef is one of the few places in the world where a glacier descends through temperate rainforest, making it a fascinating destination both culturally and geographically. Scenic flights, heli-hikes, short walks and glacier viewpoints all offer different ways to appreciate this unique West Coast environment.
Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Punga Grove Motel & Suites is located right in the heart of Franz Josef village in a beautiful rainforest setting. Its stylish accommodation and convenient location make it an excellent base for experiencing the glacier region.
Meals included: Lunch
Day 5: Franz Josef to Christchurch
Your final day combines a scenic West Coast transfer with one of the world’s great rail journeys. From glacier country to the Southern Alps and across to the Canterbury Plains, today offers a memorable finale to your South Island circuit.
Included: Franz Josef to Greymouth Train Station Travel north through the historic gold mining region of Hokitika, a town well known for its greenstone heritage and rugged coastal character. Continue to Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast, where you will connect with the next stage of your journey.
Included: TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch The TranzAlpine is considered one of the world’s great train journeys, crossing the South Island from west to east through Arthur’s Pass National Park. From your carriage, enjoy views of beech forest, deep river valleys and the spectacular Southern Alps before descending onto the Canterbury Plains and arriving in Christchurch.
Coach Tours
