Explore Milford Sound, Fox Glacier and the TranzAlpine
This 8 day South Island itinerary from Christchurch brings together New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes, from alpine lakes and towering mountains to dramatic fiords and rugged coastlines. Travelling in comfort, you’ll experience a seamless loop through the region’s most spectacular highlights.
Journey to Queenstown for adventure and scenery, cruise through the breathtaking Milford Sound, and explore the glacier region of the West Coast. With the legendary TranzAlpine train completing your adventure, this tour delivers a rich and unforgettable South Island experience.
Inclusions
Accommodation for 7 nights staying in Hotel 4 star
Electronic Travel Guide and In-Country Support App
The Visitor Promise - Cultural Learning Course
Private Transfer Christchurch International Airport to Christchurch Accommodation
Christchurch to Queenstown via Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park & Tekapo with Cheeky Kiwi - Lunch Included
Milford Sound Business Class with Real NZ and Altitude Tours - Includes Canapes
Queenstown to Fox Glacier with Glacier Shuttles
Flying Fox Glacier Helihike with Fox Glacier Guiding
Fox Glacier to Greymouth Train Station with Hokitika Scenic Tours
TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch
Shared Transfer from Christchurch Train Station to Christchurch CBD Accommodation with Christchurch Touring Company
Private Transfer from Accommodation to Airport with Christchurch Touring Company
7 breakfasts, 2 lunches
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Christchurch
Arrive in Christchurch, a city known for its gardens, heritage architecture and evolving urban landscape. Take some time to explore the city’s highlights, from the Avon River to its vibrant dining precincts.
Included: Private transfer from Christchurch Airport to accommodation Enjoy a seamless arrival with a private transfer directly to your hotel. This convenient service ensures a smooth start to your South Island journey.
Suggested Activity: Discover Christchurch Afternoon Tour Gain insight into Christchurch’s history and rebuild following the earthquakes on a guided sightseeing tour. This experience highlights key landmarks, gardens and scenic viewpoints across the city.
Accommodation: Sudima Christchurch City
Stay in a stylish, centrally located hotel close to Hagley Park and the city’s attractions. Its modern design and premium comfort make it an excellent base for your stay.
Day 2: Christchurch to Queenstown via Aoraki Mount Cook
Travel across the Canterbury Plains and into the heart of the Southern Alps. Today’s journey showcases some of New Zealand’s most iconic alpine scenery, including glacial lakes and towering peaks.
Included: Christchurch to Queenstown Small Group Tour via Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook Visit the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd before continuing to Mount Cook National Park. Enjoy breathtaking views of New Zealand’s highest mountain and surrounding landscapes as you travel south.
Accommodation: Stay 3 nights at Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Stay in the heart of Queenstown, within easy reach of shops, restaurants and the lakefront. This comfortable hotel offers a great base for exploring the adventure capital.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: Free Day in Queenstown
Spend the day discovering Queenstown’s stunning alpine setting and vibrant atmosphere. From scenic walks to thrilling activities, there is something for every style of traveller.
Suggested Activity: Shotover Jet Canyon Jet Boat Ride Experience an adrenaline-filled ride through narrow river canyons at high speed. The famous 360-degree spins make this a must-do adventure in Queenstown.
Suggested Activity: Queenstown Skyline Gondola Ride Take in panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains from the summit. This scenic ride offers a relaxing way to appreciate the region’s natural beauty.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 4: Milford Sound Business Class Experience
Travel into Fiordland National Park, one of New Zealand’s most dramatic natural landscapes. Today’s journey combines luxury travel with breathtaking scenery and unforgettable moments.
Included: Milford Sound Business Class coach and cruise experience Travel in comfort with premium seating, scenic stops and engaging commentary en route. Cruise through Milford Sound while enjoying canapés and stunning views of waterfalls, cliffs and wildlife.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5: Queenstown to Fox Glacier
Journey from Queenstown to the West Coast, travelling through the scenic Haast Pass. Experience a dramatic change in landscapes as you move from alpine terrain to lush rainforest and rugged coastline.
Included: Queenstown to Fox Glacier transfer with Glacier Shuttles Enjoy a scenic drive past mountain peaks, waterfalls and pristine lakes. This journey highlights the diversity of the South Island’s natural environments.
Accommodation: Stay 2 nights at Te Weheka Resort
Stay in a boutique property in the heart of Fox Glacier village, surrounded by rainforest. Its peaceful atmosphere offers a relaxing base for exploring glacier country.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 6: Fox Glacier Adventure
Today offers the chance to experience one of New Zealand’s most unique natural wonders up close. Surrounded by rainforest and alpine peaks, Fox Glacier provides an unforgettable setting.
Included: Fox Glacier heli hike experience Fly by helicopter onto the glacier and explore its ice formations with an expert guide. This thrilling experience combines scenic flight and guided adventure in a truly spectacular environment.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 7: West Coast to Christchurch via TranzAlpine
Travel north along the rugged West Coast before crossing the Southern Alps by rail. Today combines coastal scenery with one of the world’s most famous train journeys.
Included: Fox Glacier to Greymouth transfer via Hokitika Gorge Pass through historic towns and scenic coastal landscapes rich in natural beauty. Hokitika Gorge offers striking turquoise waters and a glimpse into the region’s heritage.
Included: TranzAlpine Scenic Train from Greymouth to Christchurch Journey through Arthur’s Pass National Park, taking in alpine peaks, river valleys and expansive plains. This iconic rail experience is a highlight of any South Island itinerary.
Included: Shared transfer from Christchurch train station to accommodation On arrival, transfer comfortably to your hotel in the city centre. This convenient service ensures a smooth end to your journey.
Accommodation: Sudima Christchurch City
Relax in modern accommodation close to Christchurch’s attractions. It’s an ideal place to unwind after a day of scenic travel.
Meals included: Breakfast
Day 8: Depart Christchurch
Your journey concludes in Christchurch, offering time to reflect on the incredible landscapes you’ve experienced. From fiords to glaciers and alpine scenery, this tour captures the essence of the South Island.
Included: Private transfer from accommodation to Christchurch Airport Enjoy a stress-free transfer to the airport for your onward journey. This final service ensures a smooth and well-organised departure