Day 1: Queenstown
Welcome to Tahuna (Queenstown)! Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Wakatipu, winter transforms this region into a breathtaking wonderland. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, head out and explore the lively town centre, browsing boutique shops or warming up with a coffee or mulled wine. After the meeting, the night is yours to find the best spot for a cosy dinner with your group – your local leader will have the best spots on hand.
Day 2: Cardrona Valley / Te Anau
This morning, head out on a scenic drive over the Crown range and into the Cardrona Valley – you'll start to see why the South Island is so well known for its nature. Today, you’ll get into the great outdoors on snowshoes and walk along secluded trails with the spectacular Otago scenery in the background. This afternoon, make the journey south down to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park, and settle into this cosy town for the evening. Perhaps you'd like to visit the local community cinema, where they show a short documentary about this famous region. Later, maybe head to a local pub for a craft beer and wild venison pie – New Zealand is known for its pies!
Day 3: Milford Sound / Queenstown
Today, the fjords are calling. Drive over to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi – winter is a special time to visit, with snowy mountains, crisp alpine air and fewer visitors. Take a late-morning cruise on the Sound, then head out for a walk through native rainforest with your guide. It's a short uphill climb, but you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views across the fjord and its towering snow-covered peaks. After, continue your journey, stopping at the picturesque Mirror Lakes and Lake Gunn on the way, where on calm days the surrounding mountains and forests are perfectly reflected in the clear water. Then, drive back to Queenstown for the evening.
Day 4: Queenstown
Enjoy a free day in Queenstown today, checking out what this small, yet bustling town has to offer. Maybe head to the ski and snowboard fields and spend a day on the slopes – don't worry, your leader will always be on hand to help you hire any gear you need, purchase lift passes and organise transport to and from the slopes. There are two ski fields close by – The Remarkables and Coronet Peak – and your leader can also help you decide where to go based on what you’re interested in. Or, take to the water on a jet boat across Shotover River. If you’re looking for a slower pace, you could join a local wine tour or take a boat ride across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm to meet the alpacas and Scottish Highland cattle, followed by a cosy afternoon tea.
Day 5: Aoraki Mt Cook
Get an early start this morning! Drive through the Gibbston Valley, sandwiched between vineyards and mountains, over Lindis Pass and into Mackenzie Country before arriving at Aoraki Mt Cook, the country's highest mountain. Depending on the weather and fitness levels, your leader will take you on some walks to make the most of this spectacular landscape. Depending on the weather, you may opt to do the full Hooker Valley hike, a shorter portion of the trail or a walk on the Tasman Glacier View Track. Wherever you choose, the views will be incredible!
Day 6: Queenstown
Make the drive back to Queenstown this morning. On the way, time permitting, stop in Arrowtown, one of New Zealand's most picturesque small towns for a morning coffee and stroll. Continue to Queenstown, where your trip comes to an end. If you’d like to spend some more time here, just chat with your booking agent ahead of time.
