Overview
Come along on a memorable expedition across the South Island on this 7 Day Signature Inspirational Alps Train Tour. Experience a comfortable and stylish off-the-beaten-track travel as we lead you on this picturesque and unforgettable adventure from Christchurch to Queenstown.
Highlights
- Immerse yourself in the Southern Alps through the renowned TranzAlpine train journey.
- Reveal the abode of sacred pounamu, enchanting blue lakes, and ancient forests on the West Coast.
- Unearth the wonders of Haast Pass on an authentic Kiwi-style Road Trip escapade.
- Engage with the enthralling narratives provided by your local Tour Director throughout this remarkable expedition.
- Embark on an exploration of Milford Sound on a scenic cruise.
- Marvel at the shimmering beauty of Lake Wakatipu from the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship.
This itinerary can also be done in reverse. Please enquire for available departures from Queenstown.
Details
Departure Dates
| Month | Year | Day |
| September | 2024 | 21 |
| October | 2024 | 12 |
| November | 2024 | 9, 23 |
| December | 2024 | 14 |
| February | 2025 | 1, 6 |
| March | 2025 | 22 |
| April | 2025 | 19, 26 |
|
(C) Tour Closed (L) Limited availability |
||
Minimum Age:
- 16 years and over
- Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
Group Size: Maximum of 20 people
Start: Christchurch
Finish: Queenstown
Includes:
- Experienced Tour Director
- Christchurch Historic Tramway Restaurant
- West Coast Tree Top Walk
- Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Walk
- Haast River Safari
- Milford Sounds Day Tour and Cruise
- TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Dinner Excursion
- World-Class Scenic Train Journey
- Private Coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage
- 6 Breakfasts
- 1 Lunch
- 3 Dinners
- 1 Meal on the train
Accommodation
- 4 to 4.5 Star Hotel (6 nights)
- Twin Share
- Single Upgrade Available
Maximum of 20 people.
Pricing:
Cost Per Person (Twin-share)
September 2024 - April 2025
- Adult: from NZ$ 6,199
- Single supplement: POA
Overview
Come along on a memorable expedition across the South Island on this 7 Day Signature Inspirational Alps Train Tour. Experience a comfortable and stylish off-the-beaten-track travel as we lead you on this picturesque and unforgettable adventure from Christchurch to Queenstown.
Highlights
- Immerse yourself in the Southern Alps through the renowned TranzAlpine train journey.
- Reveal the abode of sacred pounamu, enchanting blue lakes, and ancient forests on the West Coast.
- Unearth the wonders of Haast Pass on an authentic Kiwi-style Road Trip escapade.
- Engage with the enthralling narratives provided by your local Tour Director throughout this remarkable expedition.
- Embark on an exploration of Milford Sound on a scenic cruise.
- Marvel at the shimmering beauty of Lake Wakatipu from the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship.
This itinerary can also be done in reverse. Please enquire for available departures from Queenstown.
On board the carriages
TranzAlpine Train
TranzAlpine Train crossing Bealey River
Queenstown
Milford Sound
Itinerary
Open AllThis itinerary can also be done in reverse. Please enquire for available departures from Queenstown.
Kia Ora!
Welcome to Christchurch – New Zealand’s Garden City! The largest city in the South Island, Christchurch is known for its historical earthquake in 2011 and how it rebuilt itself into a charming, multicultural city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican 'gothic revival' architectural influence.
After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Christchurch has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to wander through the enticing stalls at Riverside Market or explore the botanical gardens before heading to the art gallery, museums, and other city attractions.
After an exciting day in the town, your journey will officially begin as you meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director at aboard Christchurch’s historic tramway restaurant.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 Night)
Meals Included
Dinner
Activities
Welcome Dinner
The TranzAlpine Scenic Train
The moment has come to experience the world-famous TranzAlpine journey through the Southern Alps, emerging in the West Coast!
On this fantastic escape, you will see epic vistas, soar on the edges of the ice fed Waimakariri River, traverse through the Great Divide, and experience ever-changing landscapes. The natural scenery isn’t the only marvel, though. The TranzAlpine passes through the Otira Tunnel, a true engineering marvel of 100 years!
Once you arrive on the West Coast, a private coach will take you even further off the beaten track to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Here you will explore curious limestone formations and blowholes before finishing your day in the ocean-front town of Hokitika.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
TranzAlpine Scenic Journey
Punakaiki Pancake Rock Excursion
Explore the West Coast
This morning you’ll start your West Coast adventure by visiting one of the South Island’s most popular activities – the Tree Top Walk. This elevated adventure will get you acquainted with the locals – the ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees.
After your sky-high experience, continue south into Glacier Country. Franz Josef Glacier is quite special in that it survives in coastal rainforest temperatures. With a short walk to a viewpoint, you'll get a fantastic view of the vast valley, as well as a sneak peak of Franz Josef Glacier itself. If you would prefer to get up close, we recommend booking an optional helicopter flight. This will ensure you are getting the best possible view of this natural wonder.
After indulging in the local activities and retail therapy in Franz Josef’s souvenir shops, join your group for an impeccable highlight meal at Te Waonui Forest Retreat.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities Included
West Coast Tree Top Walk & Café
Short nature walk to glacier viewing point
Four-Course Degustation Meal at Te Waonui Forest Retreat
A Unique Road Trip Adventure
Today you will explore the Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey of about five hours to Queenstown, will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. While aboard an exciting river boat and private coach, marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and majestic glaciers as your Tour Director guides you between local hidden gems. Stop in unique locations that only locals know about.
Emerging on the other side of the pass, explore the local fruit hotspot – Mrs. Jones’ Fruit Stall, before exploring the cobblestone streets of Arrowtown.
After an exciting plunge into the history of this gold rush village, you will arrive in the world-famous resort town of Queenstown!
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities Included
Scenic coach journey through Haast Pass with stops along the way
Haast River Safari
Mrs Jones’ Fruit Stall and Arrowtown Visit
Explore Milford Sound
Make sure you charge your camera before you set off on today’s adventure. Today you’re heading to Milford Sound/ Piopiotahi to be engulfed in towering peaks and waltz through plunging valleys.
After travelling through native rainforests, meadows, and past beautiful reflective pools, you will join your cruise in Milford Sound. Enjoy one of the most stunning natural features New Zealand has to offer. Aboard the cruise, you will meander down the sound to experience the rumble of Bowen and Stirling Falls as they plummet from glacial hanging valleys. Marvel at the sheer pinnacle of Mitre Peak, rising from the deep waters of the fjord.
Or if you’d like to soar like the Piopio (ancient bird), why not elevate your day by booking a flight into the Sound by plane?
After this adventure, you will be heading back to Queenstown for a relaxing evening.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (3 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Activities
Milford Sound Day Excursion
Explore Queenstown
Queenstown truly has something for everyone. Personalise your day to be as active or relaxed as you’d like. Whether it’s exploring Walter Peak on a horse trekking adventure, hopping on the gondola for inspiring views, or sipping wine in Gibbston Valley, there is no shortage of activities to delight your senses.
Enjoy a ‘final hurrah’ this evening as we board the TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise, dinner, and show. Reflect on your great adventure with your fellow travellers as you cruise to your dining experience at Walter peak overlooking the beautiful Table Bay. Sit back and watch a true Kiwi experience as you learn about sheep shearing and dog herding in this beautiful setting. This evening will truly encapsulate your great journey as a truly New Zealand highlight.
Not ready to call it a night? Sip cocktails and indulge in Queenstown’s exciting nightlife alongside the sparkling Lake Wakatipu.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (3 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Farewell Dinner at Walter Peak Farm
TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Farm Show
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travellers.
Not ready to leave Queenstown? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay.
Meals
Breakfast
Activities
Transfer to airport
Cost Per Person (Twin-share)
September 2024 - April 2025
- Adult: from NZ$ 6,199
- Single supplement: POA
Itinerary
Open AllThis itinerary can also be done in reverse. Please enquire for available departures from Queenstown.
Kia Ora!
Welcome to Christchurch – New Zealand’s Garden City! The largest city in the South Island, Christchurch is known for its historical earthquake in 2011 and how it rebuilt itself into a charming, multicultural city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican 'gothic revival' architectural influence.
After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Christchurch has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to wander through the enticing stalls at Riverside Market or explore the botanical gardens before heading to the art gallery, museums, and other city attractions.
After an exciting day in the town, your journey will officially begin as you meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director at aboard Christchurch’s historic tramway restaurant.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 Night)
Meals Included
Dinner
Activities
Welcome Dinner
The TranzAlpine Scenic Train
The moment has come to experience the world-famous TranzAlpine journey through the Southern Alps, emerging in the West Coast!
On this fantastic escape, you will see epic vistas, soar on the edges of the ice fed Waimakariri River, traverse through the Great Divide, and experience ever-changing landscapes. The natural scenery isn’t the only marvel, though. The TranzAlpine passes through the Otira Tunnel, a true engineering marvel of 100 years!
Once you arrive on the West Coast, a private coach will take you even further off the beaten track to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Here you will explore curious limestone formations and blowholes before finishing your day in the ocean-front town of Hokitika.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
TranzAlpine Scenic Journey
Punakaiki Pancake Rock Excursion
Explore the West Coast
This morning you’ll start your West Coast adventure by visiting one of the South Island’s most popular activities – the Tree Top Walk. This elevated adventure will get you acquainted with the locals – the ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees.
After your sky-high experience, continue south into Glacier Country. Franz Josef Glacier is quite special in that it survives in coastal rainforest temperatures. With a short walk to a viewpoint, you'll get a fantastic view of the vast valley, as well as a sneak peak of Franz Josef Glacier itself. If you would prefer to get up close, we recommend booking an optional helicopter flight. This will ensure you are getting the best possible view of this natural wonder.
After indulging in the local activities and retail therapy in Franz Josef’s souvenir shops, join your group for an impeccable highlight meal at Te Waonui Forest Retreat.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities Included
West Coast Tree Top Walk & Café
Short nature walk to glacier viewing point
Four-Course Degustation Meal at Te Waonui Forest Retreat
A Unique Road Trip Adventure
Today you will explore the Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey of about five hours to Queenstown, will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. While aboard an exciting river boat and private coach, marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and majestic glaciers as your Tour Director guides you between local hidden gems. Stop in unique locations that only locals know about.
Emerging on the other side of the pass, explore the local fruit hotspot – Mrs. Jones’ Fruit Stall, before exploring the cobblestone streets of Arrowtown.
After an exciting plunge into the history of this gold rush village, you will arrive in the world-famous resort town of Queenstown!
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities Included
Scenic coach journey through Haast Pass with stops along the way
Haast River Safari
Mrs Jones’ Fruit Stall and Arrowtown Visit
Explore Milford Sound
Make sure you charge your camera before you set off on today’s adventure. Today you’re heading to Milford Sound/ Piopiotahi to be engulfed in towering peaks and waltz through plunging valleys.
After travelling through native rainforests, meadows, and past beautiful reflective pools, you will join your cruise in Milford Sound. Enjoy one of the most stunning natural features New Zealand has to offer. Aboard the cruise, you will meander down the sound to experience the rumble of Bowen and Stirling Falls as they plummet from glacial hanging valleys. Marvel at the sheer pinnacle of Mitre Peak, rising from the deep waters of the fjord.
Or if you’d like to soar like the Piopio (ancient bird), why not elevate your day by booking a flight into the Sound by plane?
After this adventure, you will be heading back to Queenstown for a relaxing evening.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (3 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Activities
Milford Sound Day Excursion
Explore Queenstown
Queenstown truly has something for everyone. Personalise your day to be as active or relaxed as you’d like. Whether it’s exploring Walter Peak on a horse trekking adventure, hopping on the gondola for inspiring views, or sipping wine in Gibbston Valley, there is no shortage of activities to delight your senses.
Enjoy a ‘final hurrah’ this evening as we board the TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise, dinner, and show. Reflect on your great adventure with your fellow travellers as you cruise to your dining experience at Walter peak overlooking the beautiful Table Bay. Sit back and watch a true Kiwi experience as you learn about sheep shearing and dog herding in this beautiful setting. This evening will truly encapsulate your great journey as a truly New Zealand highlight.
Not ready to call it a night? Sip cocktails and indulge in Queenstown’s exciting nightlife alongside the sparkling Lake Wakatipu.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation (3 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Farewell Dinner at Walter Peak Farm
TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Farm Show
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travellers.
Not ready to leave Queenstown? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay.
Meals
Breakfast
Activities
Transfer to airport
