8 Day Southern Alps Explorer Independent Coach Tour

Arrive in Christchurch, a city known for its blend of heritage charm and modern innovation. Spend the day settling in or exploring its leafy parks, riverside precincts, and evolving city centre.

Included: Private transfer from Christchurch Airport to accommodation
Enjoy a smooth and welcoming arrival with a private transfer directly to your hotel. This convenient service allows you to relax after your journey and begin your South Island experience with ease.

Suggested Activity: Discover Christchurch Afternoon Tour
Explore Christchurch on a guided afternoon tour that showcases both its historic charm and inspiring rebuild following the earthquakes. Discover elegant architecture, tranquil gardens and key landmarks while gaining insight into the city’s resilience and transformation.

Travel through the heart of the South Island, passing iconic alpine landscapes and glacial lakes. This scenic journey introduces you to the grandeur of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and Lake Tekapo.

Included: Christchurch to Queenstown via Aoraki Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo tour with lunch
Travel through some of the South Island’s most spectacular scenery on a guided small group journey between Christchurch and Queenstown. Visit iconic locations including Lake Tekapo and Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, while enjoying expert commentary and a comfortable, well-paced experience.

Spend the day discovering Queenstown, a destination celebrated for its stunning scenery and wide range of experiences. Whether you prefer adventure or relaxation, there is something here for everyone.

Suggested Activity: Shotover Jet Canyon Jet Boat Ride
Experience an adrenaline-filled ride through the narrow Shotover River canyons, skimming past rock walls at high speed. Hold on tight for thrilling twists, turns and the famous 360-degree spins that make this one of Queenstown’s most iconic adventures.

Suggested Activity: Skyline Gondola Ride
Take a ride on the Skyline Gondola and enjoy sweeping panoramic views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountain ranges. It’s a relaxing way to appreciate the region’s spectacular alpine scenery from above.

Suggested Activity: TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner
Cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship, enjoying stunning alpine scenery on your way to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Indulge in a gourmet BBQ dinner featuring local produce, followed by a traditional farm demonstration before returning to Queenstown under the night sky.

Travel into Fiordland National Park to experience the natural wonder of Milford Sound. This day showcases towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and pristine wilderness.

Included: Milford Sound coach and cruise tour from Queenstown with lunch
Travel through the spectacular landscapes of Fiordland National Park aboard a comfortable coach, with scenic stops and expert commentary along the way. Once in Milford Sound, enjoy a relaxing cruise surrounded by towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls and native wildlife in one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking natural settings.

Included: Queenstown to Franz Josef transfer with Glacier Shuttles
Travel from Queenstown to Franz Josef through some of the South Island’s most dramatic scenery, including alpine passes, glacial lakes and rugged mountain ranges. Crossing the Haast Pass, the landscape transforms into lush rainforest and wild coastline, offering a truly memorable journey to the West Coast.

Today offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore one of New Zealand’s most accessible glaciers. The dramatic icy landscape provides a unique and awe-inspiring environment.

Included: Franz Josef Glacier Helihike
Take to the skies on a scenic helicopter flight before landing on the stunning Franz Josef Glacier for a guided ice adventure. Explore a constantly changing landscape of blue ice formations and towering peaks, as your expert guide leads you through this remarkable glacial environment.

Travel north along the West Coast before crossing the Southern Alps on a world-famous rail journey. This day combines coastal scenery with one of New Zealand’s most iconic train experiences.

Included: Franz Josef to Greymouth transfer via Hokitika
Travel north along the rugged West Coast, passing through Hokitika, a historic town renowned for its pounamu and gold mining heritage. This scenic journey showcases coastal landscapes and rich history before arriving in Greymouth.

Included: TranzAlpine Scenic Train from Greymouth to Christchurch
Experience one of the world’s great rail journeys as you travel through Arthur’s Pass National Park and across the Southern Alps. Enjoy ever-changing scenery from rainforest and river valleys to wide open plains as you make your way to Christchurch.

Included: Transfer from Christchurch Train Station to accommodation
On arrival, enjoy a convenient transfer to your hotel in the city. This ensures a seamless end to your day of travel.

Your journey concludes in Christchurch, offering a smooth and relaxed departure. Take in a final glimpse of the city before heading to the airport.

Included: Private transfer from accommodation to Christchurch Airport
Enjoy a reliable transfer to the airport, ensuring a stress-free end to your tour. This final service provides a comfortable conclusion to your South Island experience.