Mt Cook with a lake in front of it
Striking view of Mt Cook
TranzAlpine train
TranzAlpine, one of the world's greatest train journeys
Aerial view of Queenstown
Aerial view of Queenstown
Boat on the water at sunset
Milford Mariner on the water at sunset
Lake Wakatipu
Lake Wakatipu through golden leaves
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  4. Signature Best of The South Island

Signature Best of The South Island

Mixed Board Basis 13 nights from €6,599 per person Including Flights

Overview

Discover the diverse landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island on this fantastic 13-night journey where natural wonders, cultural heritage and unforgettable experiences come together in one seamless adventure. From the vibrant city of Christchurch to the dramatic peaks of Mt Cook and the tranquil fjords of Milford Sound, this immersive tour showcases the very best the South Island has to offer.

Whether it’s world-class rail journeys, glacier views, charming towns or historic castles, every day brings a new highlight and a deeper connection to the landscape and stories of New Zealand (GPT).

Highlights:

  • Experience life in Antarctica at the International Antarctic Centre
  • Enjoy one of the world’s great train journeys – TranzAlpine
  • Explore Fiordland on an overnight Milford Sound cruise
  • Marvel at Mt Cook – New Zealand’s highest peak

Christchurch (2N) – Punakaiki (1N) – Franz Josef (1N) – Queenstown (3N) – Milford Sound (1N) – Invercargill (1N) – Dunedin (2N) – Twizel (1N) – Christchurch (1N)

Whats included?
  • Flights & taxes
  • Accommodation
  • Checked baggage
  • CAR licensed & bonded
  • In resort assistance
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Day 1
Christchurch

Upon arrival in Christchurch, meet a tour representative and transfer to your hotel. Depending on time of arrival, you will have the rest of the day to enjoy at leisure before a drink and dinner where you will meet your tour leader and group.

Overnight: Distinction Christchurch Hotel or similar (dinner included for arrivals before 8pm).

Day 2
Christchurch

In the morning, embark on a city tour of Christchurch to immerse yourself in its vibrant energy. After this, you will make your way to the International Antarctic Centre to learn more about life in Antarctica. Return to Christchurch for a journey on the Christchurch Tram, seeing the city’s key landmarks and learning more about its history.

The evening is yours to dine at leisure.

Overnight: Distinction Christchurch Hotel or similar (breakfast included).

Day 3
Christchurch – Moana – Punakaiki

The day begins with one of the world’s great train journeys aboard the TranzAlpine. Marvel at river valleys, dramatic gorges and huge viaducts before travelling through the Otira Tunnel to Moana. In this lakeside town, you will enjoy lunch at Kingfisher Restaurant before continuing to the town of Punakaiki.

Overnight: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Day 4
Punakaiki – Franz Josef

Today, explore the incredible Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes before making your way south to Greymouth. Sample craft beers over lunch at Monteith’s Brewing Co. before boarding the coach and travelling to Hokitika, known for its Greenstone. Later, arrive in Franz Josef, where you will have the opportunity to enjoy a scenic flight over the incredible glaciers.

Overnight: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).
Optional excursion: Scenic flight over glaciers

Day 5
Franz Josef – Queenstown

Today, you will journey south through the Haast Pass and enjoy views of the peaks of the Southern Alps. Queenstown is your next destination, situated on the shores of the stunning Lake Wakatipu.

Overnight: Mercure Queenstown Resort or similar (breakfast and dinner included).

Day 6
Queenstown

The day begins with a visit to the old gold mining village of Arrowtown. Explore the Lakes District Museum before travelling to Gibbston Valley Winery where you will enjoy a wine tasting in New Zealand’s largest Wine Cave and lunch in the restaurant.

In the evening, board the historic TSS Earnslaw for a cruise across Lake Wakatipu, arriving in Walter Peak Station. During the journey, indulge in a fantastic gourmet barbecue dinner sourced from the Colonel’s Homestead. Embark on a short farm tour before cruising back to Queenstown accompanied by a sing along by the piano.

Overnight: Mercure Queenstown Resort or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Day 7
Queenstown

Today is yours to explore Queenstown at leisure. Known as the adventure capital of the world, there is much to discover here.

Overnight: Mercure Queenstown Resort or similar (breakfast included).

Day 8
Queenstown - Milford Sound

In the morning, travel to Milford Sound and board the Milford Mariner for an incredible overnight cruise. Marvel at the diverse landscape – from waterfalls and mountains to rainforest and wildlife, there are many spectacular sights to take in. You may even see seals, dolphins and penguins.

There will be opportunities to explore along the way by tender boat or kayak, though you may choose to simply relax. Dinner will be a fantastic carvery buffet.

Overnight: Milford Mariner or similar (breakfast and dinner included).

Day 9
Milford Sound – Te Anau – Invercargill

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading back out to sea, exploring more of the fiord. After this, return to the wharf and meet your coach. Drive to Invercargill, with a short break in Te Anau. Visit Bill Richardsons Transport World for a tour of this private collection of vintage trucks, rare classic cars, petrol pumps and Wearable Arts.

Overnight: Distinction Invercargill or similar (breakfast and dinner included).

Day 10
Invercargill – The Catlins – Dunedin

Start the day with a visit to Classic Motorcycle Mecca, home to over 300 global classic bikes. Make your way through the breath-taking Catlins region, where rainforests and stunning beaches collide. Before lunch, visit Curioscape – an interactive experience full of immersive exhibits and a theatre.

After this, travel to Purakaunui Falls, a majestic waterfall and the perfect photo spot. Enjoy stunning views of the coast during the journey to Dunedin.

Overnight: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City or similar (breakfast, lunch and dinner included).

Day 11
Dunedin

Travel along the scenic Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle for a guided tour filled with tales of tragedy and scandal. Enjoy a traditional Devonshire Tea and explore the internationally recognised gardens. Discover Dunedin’s gold rush heritage and impressive Edwardian and Victorian architecture on an orientation tour of the city’s highlights. 

Overnight: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City or similar (breakfast included).
Optional excursion: Wildlife excursion, Tour of Olveston Historic Home.

Day 12
Dunedin – Mt Cook – Twizel

Travel to Oamaru, famous for its limestone, and follow the Waitaki River. Witness Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, where you will have the opportunity to enjoy an optional scenic flight over the Southern Alps. Next, travel to Twizel for an overnight stay.

Overnight: Distinction Mackenzie Country or similar (breakfast and dinner included).
Optional excursion: Scenic flight over the Southern Alps.

Day 13
Twizel – Christchurch

Today, travel to Lake Tekapo – where you will witness its stunning turquoise waters alongside the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Sheep Dog Statue.

Arrive in Christchurch and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure before dinner and drinks to reminisce on your time in New Zealand with the rest of the group.

Overnight: Distinction Christchurch Hotel or similar (breakfast and dinner included).

Day 14
Departure

Bid farewell to New Zealand today as you travel home, taking the memories of an incredible journey with you.

Breakfast included

  • International Flights
  • 13 nights accommodation as listed in itinerary
  • Meals as listed in itinerary
  • Return airport transfers in New Zealand
  • International Antarctic Centre
  • Christchurch Tram
  • TranzAlpine Rail Journey
  • Monteith’s Brewing Co. Tasting
  • Lakes District Museum
  • Gibbston Valley Winery
  • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw
  • Milford Sound Overnight Cruise
  • Bill Richardson Transport World
  • Classic Motorcycle Mecca
  • Curioscape
  • Larnach Castle and Devonshire Tea
  • Christchurch City Sights Tour
  • Dunedin City Sights Tour

**Please note that the itinerary and inclusions outlined apply to departures from September 2026 onwards. For departures prior to this date, please consult your sales expert. 

 

Jill Maguire
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