12 Day Southern Highlights & Routeburn Great Walk

Your South Island adventure begins in Ōtautahi Christchurch, a city celebrated for its gardens and revitalised urban heart. Settle in and enjoy a relaxed introduction to New Zealand at your own pace.

Wander along the Avon River, explore Hagley Park or discover the city’s growing collection of eateries and galleries. Christchurch blends heritage architecture with innovative design, creating a vibrant yet easy going atmosphere.

Private Transfer to Accommodation

On arrival, a private driver will meet you and transfer you comfortably to your hotel. This seamless service ensures a smooth and stress free start to your holiday.

Suggested Activity – Willowbank Wildlife Reserve

Visit Willowbank for a close encounter with native wildlife, including New Zealand’s iconic kiwi. The natural bush setting and accessible viewing areas make this a rewarding introduction to Aotearoa’s unique fauna.

This morning your self drive journey begins as you head inland toward the Southern Alps. Today’s route delivers classic Canterbury scenery and vivid alpine lakes.

Private Transfer to Airport for Rental Car Collection

A private transfer will take you from your hotel to Christchurch Airport to collect your vehicle. From here, enjoy the flexibility and freedom of exploring independently.

Collect Rental Car

Choose the vehicle that best suits your travel style and prepare for spectacular open road scenery. Having your own car allows you to stop whenever a view demands your attention.

Drive to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

Travel across the Canterbury Plains before reaching Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki, both famed for their striking turquoise waters. As you approach Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand’s highest peak rises dramatically ahead.

Today is devoted to exploring the dramatic alpine environment surrounding Aoraki. Choose from scenic walks, glacier experiences or cultural insights at your leisure.

Walking Tracks in Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

A network of well formed tracks caters to all fitness levels, from short valley strolls to elevated tarn viewpoints. Each trail showcases braided rivers, glaciers and sweeping mountain panoramas.

Suggested Activity – Glacier Explorers

Cruise across the Tasman Glacier terminal lake to view ancient icebergs up close. Expert guides explain the glacier’s history and the powerful natural forces shaping the landscape.

Suggested Activity – Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

Discover the story of Sir Edmund Hillary and the region’s mountaineering heritage. Engaging exhibits and theatre presentations bring the spirit of exploration to life.

Depart the Mackenzie Basin and travel south through Central Otago’s golden hills and vineyard country. The scenery shifts from high alpine to dramatic gorges and lakes.

Scenic Drive to Queenstown

Pass through Twizel and over the Lindis Pass before descending toward Cromwell and the Kawarau Gorge. The Remarkables signal your arrival into vibrant Queenstown.

Return Vehicle to Queenstown Airport

On arrival, return your rental vehicle at the airport depot. The remainder of your time in Queenstown will be supported by organised transfers.

Suggested Activity – TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Dinner

Cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic steamship before enjoying a gourmet BBQ dinner at Walter Peak. This classic southern experience pairs stunning scenery with warm Kiwi hospitality.

Today is free to experience Queenstown your way, from scenic relaxation to high energy adventure. The alpine setting provides a spectacular backdrop for every activity.

Queenstown Skyline Gondola Ride

Ride the Skyline Gondola for sweeping views across Lake Wakatipu and surrounding peaks. From the summit, walking trails and viewing platforms showcase the dramatic landscape.

Suggested Activity – Shotover Jet Canyon Jet Boat Ride

Experience the thrill of a high speed jet boat ride through narrow river canyons. The famous 360 degree spins add an exhilarating highlight to your day.

Routeburn Track Briefing

Attend your pre walk briefing to confirm arrangements and collect any required gear. This session prepares you thoroughly for the guided Routeburn experience ahead.

Today marks the start of your guided Routeburn Track adventure. Travel from Queenstown to the trailhead and step into pristine alpine wilderness.

Queenstown to Mackenzie Lodge

Journey via Te Anau to the Divide before beginning your walk through silver beech forest. Highlights include Key Summit and Earland Falls before arriving at Mackenzie Lodge.

Hike: 12km (7.5 miles)

About: 6-8 hours walking

Track: Well-formed track with steady uphill climbs, rocky descents, and some narrow sections

Climb above the treeline today and take in expansive alpine vistas. The ever changing scenery is a highlight of the Routeburn experience.

Mackenzie Lodge to Routeburn Falls Lodge

Cross the Harris Saddle and, conditions permitting, climb Conical Hill for panoramic views. Descend past Lake Harris and cascading waterfalls to your lodge perched high above the valley.

Hike: 11km (6.9 miles)

About: 5-7 hours walking

Track:  A steady zigzag climb to Harris Saddle, followed by an undulating traverse and steep descent to the lodge.

Your final morning on the Routeburn Track descends through red beech forest and alpine flats. The journey concludes at the road end before returning to Queenstown.

Routeburn Falls Lodge to Road End

Follow the Routeburn River through tranquil forest to the trail finish. A coach transfer via Glenorchy returns you to Queenstown.

Hike: 9km (5.7 miles)

About: 3-4 hours walking

Track:  Steep rocky descent from the lodge, then mostly flat, well-formed track through forest and river flats

Your self drive journey resumes as you head toward the rugged West Coast. Alpine passes, rainforest and wild coastline define today’s scenic drive.

Transfer to Airport and Collect Rental Car

A transfer will take you to Queenstown Airport to collect your vehicle. From here, enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace once again.

Drive via Wanaka and Haast Pass

Travel past Lake Wanaka and through Mount Aspiring National Park before crossing Haast Pass. Continue north along the coast to Franz Josef township.

Franz Josef is famed for its glacier descending toward lush rainforest. Today is yours to explore this dramatic natural environment.

Suggested Activity – Twin Glacier Scenic Helicopter Flight

Soar above Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers for breathtaking aerial views. A snow landing provides the opportunity to step onto the glacier itself.

Combine road and rail today as you travel north to Greymouth before crossing the Southern Alps. This journey showcases some of the South Island’s most diverse scenery.

Drive to Greymouth and Return Rental Car

Pass through Hokitika and coastal forest before reaching Greymouth. Return your rental car at the station depot prior to boarding the train.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train to Christchurch

Board the renowned TranzAlpine Scenic Train for a spectacular cross island journey. Travel through Arthur’s Pass National Park and across the Canterbury Plains back to Christchurch.

Private Transfer to Accommodation

On arrival, a private driver will transfer you to your hotel. This seamless connection ensures a relaxed conclusion to your rail journey.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before preparing for your onward journey. Your 12 day Southern Highlights and Routeburn Great Walk experience concludes today.

Private Transfer to Christchurch Airport

A private transfer will collect you from your hotel and deliver you comfortably to the airport. Depart with lasting memories of alpine peaks, glacier valleys and unforgettable Great Walk scenery.