16 Day Southern Coast & Stewart Island Nature

Today you arrive in Christchurch, ready to begin your South Island adventure. Stretch your legs and enjoy a relaxed introduction to this vibrant city nestled between parklands and the Pacific Ocean.

Private Transfer from Christchurch Airport to Your Hotel
On arrival, your private driver will meet you and take you straight to your accommodation. This smooth transfer means you can settle in without stress after your flight.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY – Discover Christchurch Afternoon Tour
A half‑day tour offers insight into Christchurch’s recovery from the 2010–11 earthquakes and highlights its beautiful gardens and historic spots. This is a perfect way to understand the city’s character and its exciting transformation.

Today you begin your journey by collecting your hire car and heading to the extraordinary Banks Peninsula. Wind your way through lush countryside and ocean‑fringed bays, enjoying a delightful contrast to city life.

Collect Rental Car
Your car is ready for pick up, with a comfortable standard vehicle included in your tour price. You can upgrade to suit your style and needs from a great selection if you’d like something a bit more spacious or powerful.

Drive Christchurch to Akaroa
Meandering roads take you through rolling hills and coastal inlets to the charming French‑inspired town of Akaroa. The scenery makes for a lovely introduction to New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes and French influence.

Swimming with Dolphins Cruise with Black Cat
Cruise Akaroa Harbour in search of the rare Hector’s dolphins and, conditions permitting, enjoy up to an hour swimming with them. All equipment is provided — just bring your swim gear and towel for a wonderfully unique experience.

Today’s drive takes you inland across the vast Canterbury Plains toward the soaring Southern Alps. Expect incredible mountain vistas and the kind of wide‑open skies that make every stop a photo opportunity.

Drive to Aoraki/Mt Cook
Cross dramatic high country and visit the picturesque Lake Tekapo before heading on to Lake Pukaki with views stretching right into Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. It’s a scenic day of continually changing landscapes.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY – Glacier Explorers
Set out on a purpose‑built boat to explore the spectacular Tasman Glacier terminal lake and view towering icebergs. This unique journey brings you up close to ancient ice and dazzling natural formations.

Today you leave alpine country behind and head south toward vibrant Dunedin, taking in diverse scenery along the way. Keep your camera handy for charming towns and fascinating geological sights.

Drive to Dunedin
Travel through iconic landscapes including the Waitaki Valley and the historic town of Oamaru, with its distinctive stone buildings. A quick detour to Moeraki Beach for the spherical boulders is well worth your time.

Today is your chance to uncover Dunedin’s rich heritage and incredible wildlife on the Otago Peninsula. This region beautifully combines culture, history and scenic coastlines.

Castle to Cruise Tour and Penguin Experience with Monarch
Set off on a wildlife cruise around Taiaroa Head, where royal albatross and seals are often spotted. After the cruise, visit historic Larnach Castle and then head to a protected penguin sanctuary to learn about these rare birds and see them in their natural habitat.

Today’s drive follows one of New Zealand’s most dramatic coastal roads, full of hidden gems and wildlife‑rich beaches. Take your time — there’s so much to explore that you’ll want to pause often.

Drive Southern Scenic Route
Wind along rugged coastline and through lush forested areas, past Nugget Point and fossilised forests at Curio Bay. Keep your eyes open for seals, penguins and other unique wildlife along the way.

Today you fly to tranquil Stewart Island, where native bush, wildlife and peaceful beaches await. This is a true escape into nature, with plenty of birdlife and serene views.

Flight to Stewart Island
Your scenic flight gives you aerial views over Foveaux Strait and the southern tip of the South Island. It’s a short hop that feels like a gateway to a wilder, slower‑paced world.

Explore Stewart Island/Rakiura National Park
With 85% of the island protected as national park, today is yours to enjoy native bush tracks, wildlife viewing and maybe even a spectacular sunset. The island’s remote feel and quiet beaches create a perfect contrast to your earlier travels.

Today you spend time exploring a beautiful predator‑free sanctuary just minutes from Stewart Island. This pristine little island is one of New Zealand’s best places to spot rare native birds.

Ulva Island Explorer
Cruise across Paterson Inlet and join a guided walk through the sanctuary where native birds like saddlebacks, robins and yellowheads thrive. The guides share passionate insights and your included picnic lunch makes this a full, fulfilling day out.

After soaking in Stewart Island’s wild charm, you’ll return to the mainland and continue your scenic road trip. Today’s journey takes you along the lesser-known yet stunning Southern Scenic Route to the lakeside town of Te Anau.

Flight from Stewart Island to Invercargill
A quick flight over the Foveaux Strait gives you one last glimpse of Stewart Island’s untouched beauty. You’ll land refreshed and ready for the next leg of your journey.

Drive Invercargill to Te Anau via the Southern Scenic Route
This stretch of road winds through historic settlements like Riverton and Tautapere, with hidden gems like Monkey Bay and the Clifden Suspension Bridge en route. Take your time and soak up the natural and historical richness of Southland.

Today is all about exploring the iconic Milford Sound – a must-do for any South Island journey. Towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene waters await as you cruise through this majestic fiord.

Milford Sound Cruise with Real NZ – Lunch Included
Set sail through Milford Sound with views of dramatic waterfalls, native rainforest, and wildlife like seals and dolphins. A tasty lunch on board rounds out this unforgettable cruise.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY – Milford Sound Lunch Cruise on the Fiordland Jewel
Experience Milford Sound in luxury aboard a boutique catamaran with panoramic views, top-notch dining, and the chance to spot marine life up close. This is a perfect blend of comfort and awe-inspiring natural wonder.

Today’s drive takes you from tranquil Te Anau to vibrant Queenstown, passing through lush farmland and along the shimmering edge of Lake Wakatipu. This route offers one of the most jaw-dropping lake views in the country.

Drive to Queenstown via the Devil’s Staircase
The road winds alongside Lake Wakatipu with countless photo stops — don’t miss the dramatic lookout at the Devil’s Staircase. The Remarkables mountain range makes an impressive entrance as you approach Queenstown.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY – TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner
Board the historic steamship for a scenic lake cruise to Walter Peak Station where a gourmet BBQ feast awaits. After dinner, enjoy a fun farm demonstration and a magical return cruise under the southern night sky.

Today kicks off with a thrilling jet boat ride deep into Mt Aspiring National Park, followed by a chance to explore Queenstown’s many charms. Adventure or relaxation — the choice is yours.

Wilderness Jet Experience with Dart River Safaris
Hold on tight as you race across braided riverbeds and through ancient beech forests, with plenty of stops to admire the wild beauty. It’s an unforgettable way to experience New Zealand’s dramatic backcountry.

Explore Queenstown
Take time to discover why Queenstown is one of NZ’s top destinations — from adrenaline-fuelled thrills to lakeside strolls and stunning mountain views. Whether you’re after a gondola ride, fine dining, or a laid-back day of shopping, Queenstown delivers.

Today’s journey is one of the most varied yet – from alpine passes and crystal lakes to lush rainforest and glacier country. You’ll travel via Wānaka and the spectacular Haast Pass before arriving at Franz Josef.

Drive to Franz Josef via Wānaka & Haast Pass
Stop in Wānaka for lakeside views and a coffee, and take a short walk to the Blue Pools on the way through. You’ll pass waterfalls, coastal rainforest and snow-capped peaks — this is South Island scenery at its finest.

Wake up in glacier country! Today is yours to explore this unique landscape of ancient ice, lush forest, and geothermal pools.

Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike with Glacier Guides
Lift off on a scenic helicopter flight before touching down on the glacier for a guided hike through ice caves and crevasses. It’s the ultimate way to get up close with one of New Zealand’s most impressive natural wonders.

Your final full day takes you along the West Coast to Greymouth, where you’ll drop off your car and hop aboard one of the world’s most scenic train journeys. From wild coastline to alpine passes, it’s a fitting finale.

Drive to Greymouth via Hokitika
Hokitika is a great stop for local pounamu (greenstone), artisan gifts, and ocean views. Drop off your rental car in Greymouth before continuing by train.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train – Greymouth to Christchurch
This world-famous rail journey crosses rivers, viaducts, and the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass before descending to the Canterbury Plains. Sit back and enjoy the spectacular scenery from the comfort of your carriage.

Shared Transfer to Accommodation
You’ll be met at Christchurch Station and driven to your accommodation for one last night in the Garden City.

Your unforgettable South Island adventure comes to a close today. One last transfer takes you to the airport — but don’t worry, New Zealand will be waiting for your return.

Private Transfer to Christchurch Airport
A comfortable door-to-door ride to the airport ensures your journey ends on a high note. Safe travels and mā te wā — see you again soon!