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South Island

Start: Wellington (or Queenstown)
Finish: Queenstown (or Wellington)
Locations: Wellington, Queenstown
Duration: 11 days
Minimum Age: 16

Details

Discover the South Island From Marlborough to Milford Sound

New Zealand’s South Island unfolds in spectacular fashion on this 11-day guided journey from Wellington to Queenstown. Towering mountains, glacial valleys, and breathtaking coastlines set the stage for an adventure filled with scenic train rides, cruises, and cultural experiences. Along the way, a knowledgeable Tour Director shares stories that bring each destination to life, from the vineyards of Marlborough to the serene waters of Milford Sound.

A seamless and comfortable way to explore, this tour includes premium accommodation, curated meals, and world-class transport, ensuring a stress-free experience. Highlights include a whale-watching excursion in Kaikōura, a tree-top walk through ancient rainforests, and a journey across the Southern Alps aboard the iconic TranzAlpine train. With reverse itinerary options available, this adventure caters to those seeking an immersive and scenic exploration of New Zealand’s South Island.

INCLUSIONS

Signature Experiences

  • Premium Plus Lounge experience on the Interislander Ferry (Cook Strait crossing)
  • Coastal Pacific and TranzAlpine Scenic Plus train journeys with onboard dining
  • Marlborough wine experience with curated tastings
  • Paua pearl farm visit and tasting
  • Dolphin Encounter in Kaikōura (weather permitting)
  • Guided pounamu experience and Hokitika Gorge walk
  • Haast River Wilderness Safari
  • VIP entry and guided Kiwi encounter at the West Coast Wildlife Centre
  • Milford Sound nature cruise
  • TSS Earnslaw cruise to Walter Peak with gourmet buffet dinner and farm tour
  • Fully guided by an expert Tour Director

Transport & Transfers

  • Scenic rail: Coastal Pacific & TranzAlpine (Scenic Plus class)
  • Cook Strait ferry from Wellington to Picton
  • Private coaches for regional exploration
  • Local shuttles (excluding airport pickup)
  • Porterage at all accommodations

Meals Included

  • 10 breakfasts
  • 1 lunch
  • 4 dinners (including Walter Peak dinner)
  • 1 meal onboard the TranzAlpine train

Accommodation

  • 10 nights in premium 4–5 star hotels
  • Twin-share rooms (single supplement available)

*Please note: Tour inclusions may vary depending on the season of departure.

  • Tour Route: 11-day journey from Wellington to Queenstown (reverse option available)
  • Group Size: Maximum 20 travellers for a personalised experience
  • Age Limit: 16+ years, under 18s must travel with an adult
  • Fitness Level: Moderate walking required, some areas may not be accessible

Solo Traveller Choices

  • Guaranteed Share: Travelling solo? Choose our Guaranteed Share option, and we'll pair you with another solo traveller of the same gender in a twin-bedded room. If we’re unable to find a match, we’ll cover the cost of the Single Supplement.
  • Single Supplement: Prefer your own space? Opt for the Single Supplement at the time of booking to enjoy a private room throughout your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Only professionally trained service animals assisting customers with disabilities are permitted onboard.

  • Scenic Class Passengers:
    • 1 Large checked bag (Max: 23kg, 158cm linear size)
    • 1 Cabin bag (Max: 7kg, 118cm linear size; wheeled/hard-sided suitcases must be checked in)
    • 1 Small bag or handbag for valuables and essentials
    • 1 Small infant bag (for passengers traveling with an infant; infants do not receive a separate luggage allowance)
  • Scenic Plus Passengers:
    • 2 Large checked bags (Max: 23kg each, 158cm linear size)
    • 1 Cabin bag (Max: 7kg, 118cm linear size; wheeled/hard-sided suitcases must be checked in)
    • 1 Small bag or handbag for valuables and essentials
    • 1 Small infant bag (for passengers traveling with an infant; infants do not receive a separate luggage allowance)

Yes, travellers with special needs or disabilities are welcome. However, please note the following:

  • Disclosure Required at Booking: You must advise us at the time of booking if you have any medical, physical, or special needs requiring accommodation during the tour.
  • Reasonable Adjustments: We will do our best to accommodate your needs where possible, unless doing so would significantly alter the nature of the services.
  • Third-Party Services: We’ll pass on your requirements to our external providers, but any modifications by those providers are at their discretion.
  • Travel Fitness: You must be medically and physically fit to undertake the tour and its activities.
  • Mobility Assistance: If you need help boarding or disembarking vehicles or require special assistance, you must travel with a carer or support person. Tour staff and fellow travellers are not responsible for providing personal assistance.
  • Medical Access: Some remote tour locations may have limited access to medical or dental services. GJNZ is not liable for costs or consequences related to this reduced access.

Yes, age restrictions apply to all tours unless otherwise stated:

  • Minimum Age: Participants must be over 16 years of age. Children under 16 are not permitted unless the tour is specifically designed as family-friendly.
  • Travellers Under 18: Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult who is responsible for their welfare for the entire duration of the tour.
  • Tour Style: Tours are designed for specific age groups, as outlined in each tour’s terms.
  • Third-Party Activities: Some included activities or services (e.g. wine tasting) may have separate age limits. You are responsible for meeting these restrictions, and no refunds or compensation will be given if you are unable to participate due to age.

Seats on scenic trains may face forward or backward, and there is no seat reservation system.

On coach travel days, we operate a seat rotation system to ensure fairness for all travellers. If you suffer from motion sickness, it is your responsibility to bring any necessary medication or remedies, as we are unable to guarantee specific seating positions or provide anti-nausea aids.

No, all our journeys, including the open-air viewing carriage, are smoke-free. Our friendly train manager will let you know if there are stops where you can stretch your legs.

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