Day 1: Christchurch
Begin in Christchurch, known for its English heritage, as well as for being New Zealand’s oldest established city. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Dinner as you meet your fellow travellers.
Day 2: Ohinetahi and Private Gardens
Today we journey to the historic 19th-century Ohinetahi garden and homestead, the private home of New Zealand architect Sir Miles Warren. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at Frensham, a relaxed private country garden with a huge variety of plants. On our way back to Christchurch, we stop in at a special private garden, set on more than eight acres. The owners are proud of its excellent design, planting and maintenance – it even boasts its own Kauri forest.
Day 3: Alan Trott Garden, Oamaru Public Garden and Dunedin
Traverse the Canterbury Plains today and admire the stunning alpine scenery of rugged mountain peaks. Travel via Ashburton, Timaru and Oamaru to Dunedin, stopping along the way for a visit at the garden of Alan Trott. The seven-acre masterpiece blends elegant woodland and formal design with highlights including intricate knot gardens, tranquil pools, and magnificent trees underplanted with rhododendrons and perennials. Stop briefly at Oamaru Public Garden, one of New Zealand’s oldest gardens, which has a five star ‘Garden of Significance’ rating. Arrive later in the city of Dunedin, which features the best collection of Edwardian and Victorian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere.
Day 4: Dunedin Botanic Gardens, Larnach Castle and Otago Peninsula
Visit Dunedin Botanic Gardens, New Zealand’s oldest botanical garden, with more than 6,800 plant species. Travel to the Otago Peninsula, home to an array of wildlife, including the little blue penguin, northern royal albatross and New Zealand fur seals. During our time on the peninsula, we call in on Glenfalloch Woodland Garden, whose rhododendrons and azaleas contrast with its native ferns and indigenous trees. Enjoy a delicious lunch at Larnach Castle, which dates back to 1871 and is set within a magnificent private garden.
Day 5: Dunedin Garden, Wildflowers and Te Anau
Today, visit a garden close to Dunedin, before travelling on to Te Anau, looking out for spring wildflowers along the way. Learn about all the introduced species that have coloured the landscape from your Botanical Guide.
Day 6: Milford Sound Cruise and Queenstown
Enjoy nature’s garden at its finest as you explore Mirror Lake, Homer Tunnel and The Chasm, then take a spectacular cruise along Milford Sound. New Zealand’s most stunning natural attraction, Milford Sound comprises dramatic mountain peaks, reflective waters and steep forest-clad cliffs. Later, arrive in the picturesque city of Queenstown, set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
Day 7: Private Garden and Arrowtown
Take a tour of a spectacular private, sustainable garden in Central Otago. Then visit the historic gold mining village of Arrowtown, where you’ll have time to explore the quaint shops along its heritage main street. This afternoon, enjoy free time in Queenstown before reconvening for dinner.
Day 8: Queenstown
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home.
