Aerial View of Christchurch
Aerial View of Christchurch
Fountains, Christchurch
Fountains, Christchurch
Milford Sound at Twilight, South Island
Milford Sound at Twilight, South Island
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The Southern Drift - Best of South Island NZ

Mixed Board Basis 11 nights from €10,979 per person Including Flights

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 12-day exploration of New Zealand. Navigate the Haast River in a covered speedboat, before heading to Arrowhead, a scenic mining village. Here, you have the option to cycle along the Arrow River or participate in an exclusive wine tasting tour.

Discover the allure of Queenstown, capped off with a gourmet meal at a renowned restaurant. Traverse the majestic Fiordland National Park to reach Milford Sound, where a half-day guided trek on the world-renowned Milford Track awaits.

Visit Dunedin, New Zealand's southernmost city, for a delightful meal at Parcels Restaurant and a tasting of unique beers at Emerson’s Brewery. Conclude your journey with a comprehensive tour of Christchurch, culminating in a celebratory dinner. (LG)

Highlights:

  • Visit the Matakohe Kauri Museum to learn about one of New Zealand’s most famous attractions – the kauri tree
  • Go swimming and unwind in the Bay of Islands
  • Venture through the Coromandel Peninsula
  • Take a ferry ride across the Cook Strait
  • Go wine tasting in Hawke’s Bay
  • Take a wildlife cruise in Kaikoura

 

Whats included?
  • Flights & taxes
  • Accommodation
  • Checked baggage
  • CAR licensed & bonded
  • In resort assistance & 24 hour contact centre
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Day 1

Arrive in Christchurch

Your upscale New Zealand adventure starts with a private car transfer to your exclusive hotel in central Christchurch, conveniently close to North Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens. Take time to explore the vibrant flowers at the Botanic Gardens or enjoy a ride on the Christchurch Tram. Later, join your Travel Concierge for a welcome toast, celebrating the start of a magnificent journey.

Accommodation: Hotel Montreal or similar

Day 2

Christchurch- Franz Josef

Begin a remarkable journey on the TranzAlpine train, renowned for its breathtaking scenic route, to the quaint village of Arthur's Pass. Upon reaching Franz Josef, you'll be greeted by your eco-conscious hideaway, set amidst the serene wilderness.

Accommodation: Te Waonui Forest Retreat or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3

Franz Josef

Delve into the majestic outdoors with a guided valley walk across Franz Josef Glacier, where you'll encounter its stunning blue ice and profound crevasses, led by a knowledgeable local expert.

Accommodation: Te Waonui Forest Retreat or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4

Franz Josef- Queenstown

Embark on a thrilling jet boat ride down the Haast River, revelling in the splendour of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area. Afterward, explore the charming, historic gold-mining village of Arrowtown. Your journey concludes at a Queenstown hotel, boasting magnificent vistas of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range.

Accommodation: Hotel St. Mortiz or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5

Queenstown

Enjoy a picturesque bicycle journey along the Arrow River Trail or indulge in a tasting tour of the Central Otago region's finest Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc wines.

Accommodation: Hotel St. Mortiz or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 6

Queenstown

Dive into the thrilling world of Queenstown's adventure scene. Choose from locally available experiences like a jet boat excursion on the powerful Shotover River or an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip on the Kawarau River. In the evening, savour a meal at one of Queenstown's premier dining establishments.

Accommodation: Hotel St. Mortiz or similar

Meals Included: Dinner

Day 7

Queenstown- Milford Sound

Travel to Milford Sound via the scenic Fiordland National Park. Along the way, witness the enchanting Mirror Lakes, the hand-crafted Homer Tunnel, and the picturesque Cleddau Valley, before reaching the spectacular Chasm.

Accommodation: Milford Sound Lodge or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8

Milford Sound

Embark on a guided trek along the Milford Track, meandering through untouched lakes, towering mountain peaks, glaciers, and vast valleys. Relish the stunning landscapes of Milford Sound on a catamaran cruise, followed by a delightful dining experience at Pio Pio Restaurant.

Accommodation: Milford Sound Lodge or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9

Milford Sound- Dunedin

Embark on a picturesque drive from Fiordland National Park, passing through lush green fields, leading you to Dunedin. Here, a heritage hotel in the heart of the city awaits you, offering a warm and inviting ambiance. Enjoy a meal at Parcels Restaurant, where you can savour dishes like surf and turf, braised lamb, the day's fresh catch, or innovative takes on classic local cuisine.

Accommodation: Distinction Dunedin Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 10

Dunedin

Discover Dunedin's culinary delights with a guided tour and tasting session at Dunedin Craft Distillers. Then, continue your taste adventure with a special chocolate tasting experience nearby. Spend the day exploring Dunedin's landmarks or journey to the stunning coastal areas.

Accommodation: Distinction Dunedin Hotel or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11

Dunedin- Christchurch

Journey along the coast, passing through the towns of Oamaru and Timaru, on your way to Christchurch. There, embark on an intriguing sightseeing tour to discover the city's key attractions. Cap off the day with a delightful dinner at Polo Bar and Restaurant, sampling the finest offerings of the city.

Accommodation: Hotel Montreal or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 12

Depart Christchurch

Bid farewell to Christchurch and your fellow travellers as your transfer takes you back to Christchurch airport for your flight homebound.

Meals Included: Breakfast

 

  • International flights
  • Accommodation as specified in the itinerary
  • Internal Travel, air-conditioned coaches
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary
  • Excursions and activities as listed in the itinerary

What's Not Included:

  • External activities and excursions as per the itinerary
  • Meals that are not in the itinerary

 

Julie Leggatt
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