14 Day Signature Best of the South Island
What to expect
What's Included
- 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
- HIGHLIGHT 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
Departure Date
Select your preferred date or enquire
Your Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive Christchurch
On arrival into Christchurch, you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink when you meet your Tour Leader and travelling companions for dinner.
4.5 Star Accommodation
Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey, 4.5 star hotel offers elegant rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.
Day 2 - Christchurch Sightseeing
This morning an introductory city tour of Christchurch will showcase its revitalised centre buzzing with energy. Continue to the International Antarctic Centre, where you will gain fascinating insights of life in Antarctica. Return to the city and enjoy a leisurely journey aboard the charming Christchurch Tram, a unique experience combining history and the city’s key landmarks. This evening is free for you to dine at leisure.
4.5 Star Accommodation
Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey, 4.5 star hotel offers elegant rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.
Day 3 - Christchurch - Moana - Punakaiki
This morning board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. Travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges before descending through the Otira Tunnel to Moana, on the banks of picturesque Lake Brunner. Enjoy lunch at Kingfisher Restaurant before travelling to the coastal town of Punakaiki.
4 Star Accommodation
Situated in Paparoa National Park just 300 meters from the magnificent Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, Scenic Hotel Punakaiki offers comfortable, environmentally friendly accommodation. Enjoy beach views, spacious & modern studio units with an ensuite.
Day 4 - Punakaiki – Franz Josef
This morning explore the world-famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Continue south to Greymouth, home of Monteith’s Brewing Co. where you will sample craft beers over lunch. Board your coach and travel to Hokitika, famous for its Greenstone before arriving at the township of Franz Josef where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers.
4 Star Accommodation
Only a breath away from the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier, in the heart of the village and edge of the Westland World Heritage Park, lies the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier offering everything you need to explore this dramatic region in style and comfort. The professional and friendly staff pride themselves on making your stay enjoyable and comfortable.
Day 5 - Franz Josef - Queenstown
Marvel at the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you journey south through the breathtaking Haast Pass. Arrive in picturesque Queenstown, a year-round resort nestled on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu. A leisurely 3-night stay allows you to slow the pace and take time to explore this incredible natural playground.
4 Star Plus Accommodation
Situated on a unique vantage point with breathtaking views over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables Mountain range, the Mercure Queenstown Resort is the ideal place to relax and recharge before you explore all the wonderful activities and places to discover in and around the spectacular Queenstown.
Day 6 - Queenstown Sightseeing
Today, immerse yourself in the spectacular sights of Queenstown. Begin with a visit to Arrowtown, a charming old gold mining village, where you will explore the Lakes District Museum. Next head to Gibbston Valley Winery and experience a wine tasting in New Zealand’s largest Wine Cave, followed by lunch in the restaurant. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a delicious gourmet barbecue dinner featuring a menu of seasonal, fresh and locally sourced food at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano as you cruise back to Queenstown.
4 Star Plus Accommodation
Situated on a unique vantage point with breathtaking views over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables Mountain range, the Mercure Queenstown Resort is the ideal place to relax and recharge before you explore all the wonderful activities and places to discover in and around the spectacular Queenstown.
Day 7 - Queenstown (Free Day)
Queenstown is celebrated around the world for its amazing activities, great food, award winning wine and its vibrant nightlife scene. Today, enjoy the freedom to explore Queenstown and all on offer at your leisure. Your crew are available to help you choose from the many optional activities available. This evening is also free to dine at one of the many fine restaurants.
4 Star Plus Accommodation
Situated on a unique vantage point with breathtaking views over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables Mountain range, the Mercure Queenstown Resort is the ideal place to relax and recharge before you explore all the wonderful activities and places to discover in and around the spectacular Queenstown.
Day 8 - Queenstown - Milford Sound Overnight Cruise
This morning, journey through Te Anau to Milford Sound where you will board the Milford Mariner for an unforgettable overnight cruise. Take your time to marvel at the fiord’s spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife - you’re bound to encounter seals and if you’re lucky maybe dolphins and penguins. There are opportunities to explore the shoreline by tender boat or kayak (swimwear required) - or to simply relax on board. As evening falls indulge in a delicious freshly prepared carvery buffet by the onboard chef.
This overnight cruise through the heart of Fiordland provides astonishing views and the ultimate Milford Sound adventure. Departing from the Milford Sound wharf in the late afternoon and accompanied by a specialist nature guide explaining the history and geology of the area. This cruise style is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to view the fiord’s spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife – you’re bound to encounter seals and, if you’re lucky, maybe dolphins and penguins too.
Day 9 - Milford Sound – Te Anau - Invercargill
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading back out to the Tasman Sea (weather permitting) to explore more of the fiord. Return to the wharf to meet your coach and enjoy the scenic drive to Te Anau for a short break. Continue your journey to Invercargill, where you visit Bill Richardsons Transport World for a guided tour of this remarkable private collection, housed in a purpose-built Art Deco building. The displays feature vintage trucks, rare classic cars, petrol pumps and an ever-growing showcase of Wearable Arts.
4.5 Star Accommodation
Invercargill’s newest hotel is housed in a former government building, now transformed into an elegant 4.5 star, 150-room haven. Each guestroom features luxury cloud-like beds, warm ambient lighting, sleek ensuite bathrooms with spacious walk-in showers equipped with both standard and rain shower heads. Guests can also enjoy a stylish restaurant and bar, set in warm and welcoming spaces, destined to become a favourite gathering place for both locals and visitors.
Day 10 - Invercargill – The Catlins - Dunedin
Your day begins with a visit to Classic Motorcycle Mecca, home to an impressive collection of over 300 classic bikes from around the globe. From there, journey through the stunning Catlins region, where lush rainforest meets dazzling beaches. A visit to Curioscape located on picturesque Curio Bay will provide an interactive experience on the region followed by lunch. Next enjoy a visit to Purakaunui Falls, a magnificent triple-tiered waterfall, perfect for capturing unforgettable photos. Along the way, take in the dramatic coastal scenery with plenty of opportunities to admire the views. Our journey continues to Dunedin, your home for the next 2-nights.
4.5 Star Accommodation
Positioned in the heart of the city and just blocks from the Octagon, Scenic Hotel Dunedin City is within walking distance of many of the city's main attractions, great restaurants and shopping centres. This stylish hotel has a fresh contemporary design, with clean lines and dramatic features softened by natural elements such as timber and neutral tones. The attention to style, quality, convenience and service is evident throughout the hotel.
Day 11 - Dunedin
Travel along the picturesque Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle. On a guided tour you will hear the tragic and scandalous tales which make up the castle’s history. Enjoy a delicious Devonshire Tea, and take time to wander around this Garden of International Significance. Dunedin was built on the riches of the gold rush with one of the best collections of Edwardian and Victorian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere on display. Enjoy an orientation tour taking in the city’s key sights. Optional activities to consider include a wildlife excursion to observe animals in their natural habitat or a guided tour of Olveston Historic Home, containing a wealth of treasures of a bygone era.
4.5 Star Accommodation
Positioned in the heart of the city and just blocks from the Octagon, Scenic Hotel Dunedin City is within walking distance of many of the city's main attractions, great restaurants and shopping centres. This stylish hotel has a fresh contemporary design, with clean lines and dramatic features softened by natural elements such as timber and neutral tones. The attention to style, quality, convenience and service is evident throughout the hotel.
Day 12 - Dunedin - Mt Cook - Twizel
Farewell Dunedin and travel to Oamaru famous for its limestone. Follow the Waitaki River as you marvel at Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available to enjoy a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the Southern Alps. Travel to Twizel for your overnight stay.
4 Star Accommodation
Located in the heart of the Mackenzie region, a unique area of New Zealand's South Island where mountains meet the riverbeds sits a true country oasis. The Distinction Mackenzie Country features natural stonework and architecture that beautifully reflects and compliments the surrounding landscape. The hotel offers comfortably furnished guest rooms all featuring their own private balcony or patio from which to soak in the glorious mountain views. Featuring natural stone, roaring fires and expansive lawns, the Distinction Mackenzie Country is the ultimate place to unwind after a day experiencing the activities and sights the region has to offer.
Day 13 - Twizel - Christchurch
Continue to Lake Tekapo and view the brilliant turquoise water, the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Sheep Dog Statue before arriving in Christchurch. This evening enjoy a pre-dinner drink and reminisce on the memories created with your new friends at the farewell dinner.
4.5 Star Accommodation
Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey, 4.5 star hotel offers elegant rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.
Day 14 - Depart Christchurch
Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.
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