Southern Escape

Arrive in Christchurch, a picturesque city known for its English influence, incredible natural surroundings, and lively local attractions. Tonight, meet your Tour Director and enjoy dinner with your fellow travellers.

Today begins with an Insider Experience. Later, take a scenic drive along the West Coast. This stunning region is home to the Franz Josef/Waiau and Fox Glaciers, as well as spectacular lakes and rainforests. 

Insider Experience – Ride the iconic TranzAlpine train to Arthur’s Pass

Journey through the heart of the Southern Alps, passing dramatic gorges, alpine rivers, and lush beech forests aboard the iconic TranzAlpine train. This scenic rail journey offers breathtaking views and a relaxing way to experience one of New Zealand’s most spectacular landscapes.

A stunning drive across Haast Pass brings you to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital. Here, enjoy an Insider Experience.

Insider Experience – Bask in idyllic views at Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

Relax and unwind in your room, which boasts sublime views of Lake Wakatipu and the snow-capped peaks of The Remarkables. You’ll be just a short stroll from Queenstown’s vibrant centre, allowing you to explore and make the most of all that this lively resort town has to offer. Whether it's great food and wine, shopping or adventure that you're after, Queenstown has something just for you.

Start the day with an Insider Experience. Then, enjoy lunch at Queenstown’s famous Fergburger. With the rest of the day free for you to spend at leisure, you may like to try one of our Enhance Your Journey select experiences.  

Insider Experience – Ride by Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak in Queenstown

Ride the Skyline gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak, 480 metres high. Marvel at the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu, Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and the town sprawling out beneath you. 

Enhance Your Journey – Million Dollar Cruise

Glide across the mystical waters of Lake Wakatipu, keeping your eyes peeled for local bird life as well as enormous trout, which swim in the lake’s waters. 

Enhance Your Journey – Shotover Jet Boat Ride

Those feeling adventurous can head out on a thrilling jet boat ride, roaring through narrow river canyons just centimetres from sheer rock walls.  

Enhance Your Journey – TSS Earnslaw Cruise

Join the historic steamer TSS Earnslaw on a cruise to Walter Peak Station for dinner, where you will gain an insight into farming life in New Zealand’s high country.

Follow The Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu to the incredible Fiordland National Park, where an Insider Experience awaits. Later, travel to the lakeside town of Te Anau.

Insider Experience – Cruise Milford Sound/Piopiotahi and enjoy spectacular scenery

Journey through the beautiful Fiordland National Park on your way to magnificent Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Once you arrive, set sail on a cruise along the full length of its pristine waters, basking in all the natural wonders you encounter. 

Journey through the rugged countryside of Southland before arriving in Dunedin for a city tour. This picturesque city is known as the wildlife capital of New Zealand, where you can spot sea lions, fur seals, rare penguins and the world’s only mainland-breeding albatross colony. After being settled by Scots in 1848, the city has retained its Gaelic roots with its stunning Gaelic-inspired architecture, performances of the haggis ceremony and the finest-tasting whisky in the country.

See the Moeraki Boulders/Kaihinaki and visit the charming town of Oamaru. Journey to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where you will enjoy an Insider Experience. Later, arrive at Peppers Bluewater Resort for a Farewell Dinner.

Insider Experience – Admire stunning views at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Travel through the glorious alpine landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and stop to admire breathtaking views of New Zealand's highest peak. 

Insider Experience – Farewell Dinner at Lake Tekapo/Takapō

Say 'ka kite ano' (see you again) to New Zealand and your fellow travellers at a special dinner at Rakinui Restaurant at Peppers Bluewater Resort on the stunning shores of Lake Tekapo/Takapō. Enjoy exquisite locally inspired cuisine prepared by world-class chefs as you celebrate the end of your Kiwi adventure with newfound friends. 

Journey alongside the shimmering waters of Lake Pukaki before stopping at the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, a perfect photo opportunity with breathtaking lake views of Lake Tekapo/Takapō. Then continue on to Christchurch, where your journey concludes.