9 Day Southern Wonders Guided Tour

First up this morning you’ll board the TranzAlpine, one of the top six train journeys in the world. This spectacular trip takes you across the Canterbury Plains and through the Southern Alps to Arthur’s Pass. Later, visit Hokitika, home of the native greenstone (jade), for a factory visit and jewellery demonstration. Next stop is Franz Josef Glacier (optional scenic Franz Josef Glacier flight is available).

Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

Travel through the Haast Pass, view Thunder Creek Falls and take a rainforest walk. Then it’s a trio of lakes – Wanaka, Hawea, Dunstan. Next up try sumptuous stone fruit at Cromwell, the stone fruit capital. Later, you’ll visit historic gold mining Arrowtown on the Arrow River, previously one of the world’s richest rivers. Arrive in Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure-capital.

Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel & Resort

Explore exciting Queenstown your way. From wine tours to jet boat rides and white water rafting, Queenstown will surprise and exhilarate. This evening cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard New Zealand’s oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet barbecue highlight dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead. An after-dinner farm show provides a glimpse into farm life.

Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel & Resort

Travel along the Devil’s Staircase and the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau. You’ll be awestruck by the great sights from Fiordland National Park to Milford Sound, one of the world’s most amazing places, where you’ll cruise on the waters of this natural wonder. En route you’ll drive through the hand-made Homer Tunnel to the abundant photo opportunities afforded by the Mirror Lake, Pop’s Lookout, Cleddau Valley, the Chasm, Mitre Peak and Bowen Falls. Then return to Te Anau. Tonight you have the option to visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves.

Accommodation: Distinction Luxmore Hotel

Cross sheep-filled farming land to Dunedin for a city tour. With free time this afternoon, consider a wildlife cruise to see the Penguins and Royal Albatross, a visit to the Speights Brewery or ride the historic Taieri Gorge Railway.

Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Dunedin with the opportunity to visit Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle (own expense). Travel through Oamaru, with its white limestone buildings, then follow the Waitaki River, passing hydro electric dams at Waitaki and Aviemore, to Omarama.

Accommodation: Heritage Gateway Hotel

Travel past Mt. Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s highest mountain. This afternoon stop at Lake Tekapo and view the Church of the Good Shepherd and then continue over the colourful Canterbury Plains to Christchurch.

Accommodation: Hotel Ibis

Your holiday concludes this morning after breakfast. You’ll be transferred to Christchurch Airport for your onward flight.