Experience Fiordland, Queenstown and Glacier Country
This 6 day South Island itinerary from Christchurch showcases New Zealand’s most breathtaking natural highlights, combining alpine landscapes, dramatic fiords and rugged West Coast scenery. From the garden city to the adventure capital, each destination offers a unique and memorable experience.
Travel through Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, explore vibrant Queenstown and cruise the iconic Milford Sound before heading into glacier country. With the TranzAlpine train completing your journey, this itinerary delivers a compact yet immersive South Island adventure
Inclusions
Accommodation for 5 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 Franz Josef with Glacier Shuttles
Franz Josef Glacier Valley Shuttle
Franz Josef to Greymouth Train Station with Hokitika Scenic Tours
TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch
Shared Transfer from Christchurch Train Station to Christchurch CBD Accommodation
Private Transfer from Christchurch Accommodation to Christchurch Airport
2 lunches
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Christchurch
Arrive in Christchurch, a city known for its beautiful gardens, heritage charm and evolving urban spaces. Spend time exploring its leafy streets, river precinct and vibrant dining scene at your own pace.
Included: Private transfer from Christchurch Airport to accommodation Enjoy a seamless arrival with a private transfer directly to your hotel. This comfortable service allows you to settle in and begin your journey stress-free.
Suggested Activity: Discover Christchurch Afternoon Tour Explore the city with Leisure Tours on a half-day journey through Christchurch’s past and present. See historic landmarks, beautiful gardens, and key sites shaped by the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes, while discovering the city’s inspiring rebuild and scenic viewpoints.
Accommodation: Sudima Christchurch City
Stay in a modern boutique hotel located near Hagley Park and the city centre. Its stylish design and central location provide a relaxing base for your stay.
Day 2: Christchurch to Queenstown via Mt Cook
Travel through the Canterbury Plains and into the heart of the Southern Alps, where stunning landscapes unfold at every turn. This scenic journey showcases turquoise lakes, alpine passes and New Zealand’s highest peak.
Included: Christchurch to Queenstown Small Group Tour via Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook Travel in comfort with Cheeky Kiwi Travel on a fully guided small group journey from Christchurch to Queenstown. Visit iconic highlights including Lake Tekapo, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, and the Tasman Glacier, with expert commentary and lunch included along the way.
Accommodation: Stay 2 nights at Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Stay in the heart of Queenstown, close to the lakefront and vibrant town centre. Its convenient location makes it ideal for exploring the area’s attractions.
Meals included: Lunch
Day 3: Milford Sound Experience
Travel into Fiordland National Park, home to some of New Zealand’s most dramatic natural scenery. Today’s experience combines luxury travel with breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable moments.
Included: Milford Sound Business Class coach and cruise experience Travel in premium comfort with RealNZ and Altitude Tours on a fully guided journey from Queenstown to Milford Sound. Enjoy scenic stops, panoramic views, and a luxury cruise aboard the MV Sinbad with canapés, New Zealand bubbles, and expert storytelling throughout.
Meals included: Lunch
Day 4: Queenstown to Franz Josef
Depart Queenstown and travel across the Southern Alps via the scenic Haast Pass. Today’s journey highlights dramatic changes in landscape, from alpine terrain to lush rainforest and rugged coastline.
Discover Franz Josef Glacier, known in Māori as “Ko Roimata o Hine Hukatere” – The Tears of the Ice Maiden. One of the few glaciers in the world descending into rainforest, it offers unforgettable experiences from scenic flights to guided walks and easy-access viewpoints.
Included: Queenstown to Franz Josef transfer with Glacier Shuttles Journey through dramatic alpine landscapes with Glacier Shuttles, travelling from Queenstown over the spectacular Haast Pass. Experience ever-changing scenery, from towering peaks and blue lakes to lush rainforest, waterfalls, and the rugged beauty of the West Coast.
Included: Glacier Valley Shuttle Take a convenient transfer into the valley with Glacier Valley Shuttle for close-up views of the glacier. From the road end, enjoy a short walk to a viewing platform or explore surrounding tracks through native forest and alpine scenery.
Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
Stay in the heart of Franz Josef village, close to local attractions and walking tracks. Its comfortable setting offers a relaxing base surrounded by natural beauty.
Day 5: Franz Josef to Christchurch via TranzAlpine
Travel north along the West Coast before crossing the Southern Alps by train. This journey combines coastal scenery with one of the world’s most iconic rail experiences.
Included: Franz Josef to Greymouth transfer via Hokitika Travel north with Hokitika Scenic Tours, passing through Hokitika, a historic seaside town renowned for its pounamu and gold mining heritage. Continue to Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast and the departure point for your scenic rail journey.
Included: TranzAlpine Scenic Train from Greymouth to Christchurch Board the TranzAlpine Scenic Train for an unforgettable trip from Greymouth to Christchurch. Cross the Southern Alps via Arthur's Pass National Park, taking in lush forests, river valleys and expansive plains along the way.
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 day.
Suggested Activity: TranzAlpine Scenic Plus Upgrade Enhance your rail journey with premium seating, meals and drinks served at your seat. This upgrade adds an extra layer of comfort and indulgence to an already spectacular experience.
Accommodation: Sudima Christchurch City
Relax back at Sudima Christchurch City Hotel in modern accommodation located close to Christchurch’s attractions. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of scenic travel.
Day 6: Depart Christchurch
Your journey concludes in Christchurch, giving you time to reflect on the incredible landscapes and experiences of the South Island. From alpine scenery to glacier country and fiords, this tour captures the essence of New Zealand.
Included: Private transfer from accommodation to Christchurch Airport Enjoy a seamless transfer to the airport for your onward journey. This final service ensures a smooth and well-organised departure.