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New Zealand

Wonders of New Zealand’s South Island

 
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20272028
Duration
14 days
From per person
$5,999 $5,799
Tour code
ZNS27
Mobility Rating 2
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Travel among a group of like-minded travelers led by a professional tour manager
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Delve into the striking landscapes and rich history of New Zealand's South Island on an in-depth exploration from Te Anau's Glowworm Caves and historic Dunedin to a cruise through Milford Sound

Embark on an immersive tour of New Zealand's diverse South Island, connected by breathtaking rail journeys on the Coastal Pacific, the TranzAlpine and the Taieri Gorge Railway.

Witness natural wonders including Te Anau's Glowworm Caves, Franz Josef Glacier and Mount Cook (Aoraki), New Zealand's highest peak. Explore Dunedin, the "Edinburgh of the South," visit the imposing 19th-century Larnach Castle and wander the streets in historic Oamaru.

Sample local wines in the Gibbston wine region, take a nostalgic steamboat cruise across Lake Wakatipu and sail into Milford Sound, the jewel of Fiordland National Park.

Unforgettable Experiences

Experiencing New Zealand’s greatest rail journeys
Experiencing New Zealand’s greatest rail journeys
Journey on world-renowned railroads including the Coastal Pacific from Picton to Christchurch; the heritage Taieri Gorge Railroad through spectacular mountain scenery; and the stunning TranzAlpine across the Southern Alps.
Exploring Dunedin, the “Edinburgh of the South”
Exploring Dunedin, the “Edinburgh of the South”
Discover this coastal city known for its blend of fascinating Scottish heritage, Gothic revival architecture and historic attractions, and visit the nearby Larnach Castle, a beautifully restored 19th-century structure.
Driving into Mount Cook National Park
Driving into Mount Cook National Park
Visit the lakeside town of Tekapo, drive along the glacial Lake Pukaki and visit Mount Cook village to soak up dramatic panoramas of Mount Cook, also known as Aoraki, New Zealand’s highest alpine peak.
Cruising into Lake Te Anau’s Glowworm Caves
Cruising into Lake Te Anau’s Glowworm Caves
Embark on a cruise on Lake Te Anau for a guided tour of the lake’s famous limestone caverns, full of stalagmites and stalactites, and the starry wonderland of the glowworm grotto.
Taking a nostalgic steamboat cruise on the TSS Earnslaw
Taking a nostalgic steamboat cruise on the TSS Earnslaw
Set sail from Queenstown on a vintage steamship, soaking up views of the snow-capped mountain range known as the Remarkables from the vast glacial Lake Wakatipu.

What’s included on the tour?

Itinerary

DAY1Arrival in Wellington

Your tour of New Zealand's spectacular South Island begins as you touchdown in the country's capital, Wellington. After transferring to our centrally located four-star hotel, you are at leisure until this evening.

Named for the Duke of Wellington, New Zealand's capital was first laid out in 1840 as a colonial outpost. Today, it has developed a reputation for creative innovation and a thriving culinary scene.

Back at our hotel this evening, you can meet the Tour Manager before we gather in the hotel restaurant for a welcome dinner. Overnight Wellington.

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY2Getting to know Wellington

This morning, we set out on a half-day sightseeing tour of the capital, starting with a ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car to the Botanic Gardens. Traveling through the hillside houses to Lambton Quay, enjoy sweeping views of the city and harbor at the top, before taking a stroll through the gardens' vibrant floral displays, exotic forests and native bush.

We continue by coach past city highlights including Oriental Bay, the iconic "Beehive" and Old St. Paul's Church - a great example of colonial Gothic architecture. In Hannah's Laneway, a hub of boutique producers, you'll find sweet treats and local delicacies to try or buy. The tour ends at Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum, where you can join a guided tour to introduce you to the country's unique natural world, Māori culture and colonial history.

This afternoon is free to explore. You might visit Zealandia, a nearby eco-sanctuary for native wildlife, or simply relax in one of Wellington's many cafés or waterfront bars. From craft beer to classic Kiwi fish and chips, the city offers a fantastic mix of flavors to round off your day. Overnight Wellington.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY3Crossing to the South Island for the Coastal Pacific

We board the Interislander ferry this morning for a journey across Cook Strait, a passageway separating the North and South Islands. Arriving in the port town of Picton, there is free time over lunch, which you could spend in one of the harborside cafés.

Next, we join the celebrated Coastal Pacific train for a memorable rail journey, traveling south to Christchurch. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of the Marlborough wine-growing region, before the ocean unfolds on one side while mountains rise dramatically on the other. As the route hugs the Kaikōura coast, keep an eye out for marine life such as seals, dolphins or even distant sperm whales.

Reaching our destination of Christchurch this evening, we spend the night in the South Island's largest city. Blending English influences with the region's unique spirit, Christchurch is a cultural city. It also has a burgeoning reputation for contemporary cuisine and an innovative approach to authentic New Zealand dishes, and you might like to find restaurants serving Canterbury lamb, Akaroa salmon or organic wines from the Waipara Valley. Overnight Christchurch.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY4Time to explore the green city of Christchurch

With a day at leisure in Christchurch, a complimentary day pass on the city's historic tram makes getting around the city easy. Besides its striking architecture and some of New Zealand's oldest buildings, there are many green spaces to explore. For example, the city's Botanic Gardens - whose restaurant serves authentic Spanish dishes - or the urban park on the banks of the Avon River.

This unique city also offers an eclectic mix of street art to fine art. To discover more, you could visit the Centre for Contemporary Art or Christchurch Art Gallery, the Māori name of which is Te Puna o Waiwhetū.

A ride on the Christchurch Gondola is another popular option. During the journey, you can soak up views across the city and Lyttelton Harbour to the Southern Alps, Canterbury Plains, Pegasus Bay and the Pacific Ocean. To venture beyond the city, you could opt for a wine tour of the nearby Waipara region. In New Zealand's second largest city, your dining options are endless, and Christchurch has a reputation for wholesome, healthy food and friendly hospitality. Overnight Christchurch.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY5To Twizel in Mount Cook National Park

After breakfast, we leave Christchurch for a scenic coach journey to Twizel, in the vast Mount Cook National Park. Our journey takes us through Fairlie, an attractive rural town, before crossing the mountainous Burke's Pass.

We make a short stop for lunch in the lakeside town of Tekapo, where you could visit the quaint Church of the Good Shepherd, set against a striking mountain backdrop on the shores of the lake. We also view the vivid blue glacial waters of Lake Pukaki as our journey continues alongside this stunning alpine lake, passing through wild moorland with Mount Cook towering in the distance.

Also known as Aoraki, Mount Cook is New Zealand's highest alpine peak. The national park surrounding it is a dramatic terrain of glaciers and soaring mountains. There's a chance to enjoy some free time in Mount Cook village before we continue on to the relaxed town of Twizel, where we spend the night. Overnight Twizel.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY6From Twizel to Dunedin

Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we board a coach for a scenic journey through the vast Waitaki Plains. Gazing out the window, enjoy views of undulating green fields and distant mountains as we approach the coast.

Reaching seaside Oamaru, we leave the coach to stretch our legs and explore this historic site. First laid out in 1858, this harbor town is home to several original limestone buildings, and a handful of streets named after English and Scottish rivers, such as Thames Street, Tyne Street and Severn Street. From Oamaru, we continue to the village of Maoraki for another brief stop. One of the village's key sights is the Maoraki Boulders, a group of massive spherical rocks scattered across Koekoehe Beach.

In the late afternoon, we arrive in Dunedin, a coastal city known for its blend of fascinating history, Gothic architecture and natural wonders. Founded in 1848 by Scottish settlers, Dunedin's name comes from the Scottish Gaelic name for Edinburgh (Dùn Èideann). With a free evening, you're welcome to explore the city independently. For dinner, you might like to try a local classic: fish and chips, made with fresh blue cod. Overnight Dunedin.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY7Dunedin, Taieri Gorge and Larnach Castle

Waking in Dunedin, we enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading to the station for one of New Zealand's most scenic train journeys. Our round-trip journey on the Taieri Gorge Railroad takes us deep into the mountainous landscapes of Central Otago, crossing immense, hand-carved viaducts and historic bridges.

Sit back and relax in the train's restored 1930s carriages as friendly onboard hosts share stories about the line's fascinating history. Enjoy incredible views of the Taieri Gorge as the train winds around the mountains, showcasing the spectacular scenery from every angle.

Returning to Dunedin on the train, we head to Larnach Castle. Built in 1871 by a wealthy banker, this Gothic revival masterpiece is the country's only authentic castle. With entrance included, we explore the interior and the gardens on a self-guided tour. Returning to Dunedin in the evening, you have an evening at leisure. Overnight Dunedin.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY8Traveling to Te Anau & the Glowworm Caves

Leaving our hotel after breakfast, we board a coach for today's journey to Te Anau. With a name originating from the Māori phrase for "the place of the swirling waters," Te Anau occupies a breathtaking setting on the eastern shores of a fjord-like lake. Overlooked by magnificent snow-capped mountains, this is the gateway to New Zealand's Fiordland in the southwestern corner of the South Island. Our route takes us past the summit of the beautiful Lindis Pass, along the Clutha River, besides Lake Dunstan and over the suspension bridge of the immense Kawararu river gorge.

On arrival, we embark on a cruise on Lake Te Anau for a guided tour of the lake's incredible caves. Our tour takes us into the lake's famous limestone caverns, which are full of stalagmites and stalactites, and the starry wonderland of the Glowworm Grotto. During our visit, we gain an insight into the fascinating ecosystem this species of beetle calls home.

Returning to Te Anau, we check in to our hotel. With a free evening, you might like to explore the town's inviting restaurants, many of which showcase local produce and South Island wines. Overnight Te Anau.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY9Te Anau, Milford Sound & Queenstown

A full-day coach excursion into the world-acclaimed Fiordland National Park awaits after breakfast. Part of the UNESCO Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area, this spectacular region is one of the great wilderness areas of the Southern Hemisphere, with ancient fjords, dense forests and craggy mountains covering nearly 5,000 square miles - nearly the size of Connecticut.

En route to Milford Sound, we stop at the spectacular Mirror Lakes, two deep, blue lakes framed by a striking mountain backdrop. Reaching the most famous of New Zealand's ancient glacier-carved fjords, we see lush rainforest valleys where waterfalls cascade over sheer granite cliffs to the sea below.

Embarking on a cruise across serene Milford Sound, we can enjoy a picnic lunch while absorbing spellbinding views of dramatic cliffs rising out of the dark water. Back on land, we continue through the scenic Eglinton Valley and the incredible Homer tunnel to our lakefront hotel in Queenstown. This popular destination offers more majestic scenery, a picturesque lake, hot springs and a great selection of places to enjoy dinner. Overnight Queenstown.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
DAY10Wine-tasting experience & TSS Earnslaw lake cruise

After a free morning in New Zealand's adventure capital, Queenstown, we are given a guided sightseeing tour of the city and surrounding areas. Our route takes us to historic Arrowtown, the site of a gold rush in the 1860s and a Lord of the Rings filming location, before continuing to a local vineyard. Here, we enjoy a tasting of wines from across the renowned Central Otago region, famous for varieties including pinot noir, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc.

Next, we board a vintage steamship for a cruise across azure Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand's longest lake. Sailing since 1912, the TSS Earnslaw is the oldest passenger-carrying steamship in the southern hemisphere. We pass an impressive range of snow-capped mountains called the Remarkables and the distinctive tip of Cecil Peak.

Mooring up at Walter Peak High Country Farm, overlooking the lake near Camel Head Beach, we enjoy a barbecue dinner at the Homestead Restaurant followed by a demonstration of farming activities. Later, we rejoin the TSS Earnslaw for an evening sailing back to Queenstown. Overnight Queenstown.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY11At leisure to uncover Queenstown

A full free day awaits after breakfast this morning, providing a chance to explore Queenstown at your own pace. For fantastic views across the town, maybe take the gondola up to Bob's Peak, a towering ridge with panoramic vistas. Alternatively, you may prefer to visit the peaceful Queenstown Gardens, a haven of native and exotic trees, with a lake and formal gardens, a short distance along the peninsula from the town.

Other options include taking a gentle walk (or a serious hike!) along the coastline or indulging in a spa experience at the Onsen Hot Pools, reachable by taxi. These are located in a spectacular setting overlooking the Shotover River, and booking ahead for treatments at the spa is recommended.

Queenstown itself has an excellent food scene, and you can find an exciting choice of restaurants and cafés offering fresh and healthy dishes with a creative twist. Overnight Queenstown.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY12The iconic Franz Josef Glacier

Today's journey is an unforgettable one as we visit the Franz Josef Glacier for an overnight stay.

Setting off on a scenic drive through Kawarau Valley Gorge to Cromwell, we pass through a popular fruit growing valley that has become an important wine producing area in recent years. Stopping at Jones Family Fruit Stall, there's free time to buy fresh produce, honey, preserves or gifts, or maybe indulge in a real fruit ice cream. Our tour continues around Lake Dunstan into New Zealand's breathtaking Glacier Country, passing the ski-resort of Wanaka on the shores of the glacial Lake Wanaka, then crossing the Haast Mountain Pass through the Southern Alps.

After descending to follow the course of the Haast River toward the coast, we travel north through natural rainforest and past pretty bush-fringed lakes. Not long after passing the Fox Glacier, we arrive in the town of Franz Josef itself, where your evening is free. On the banks of the Waiho River that flows from the Franz Josef Glacier, the town is surrounded by the epic landscapes of the Westland Tai Poutini National Park. Overnight Franz Josef.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY13The stunning TranzAlpine railway

This morning, we leave Franz Josef and travel north by coach through forests and farmlands, with the Southern Alps rising sharply to the east and vistas of the Tasman Sea to the west. We stop in Hokitika for free time to explore the charming coastal town and enjoy lunch. You might like to visit a boutique jade shop, where you can see local craftspeople create jewelry and ornaments from greenstone (pounamu).

Next, we continue inland to the small, remote village of Arthur's Pass, nestled in the heart of Arthur's Pass National Park, for a vacation highlight. Regarded as one of the world's greatest rail journeys, the TranzAlpine train carries us from the Southern Alps and across wild rivers to Christchurch. Traveling in panoramic viewing carriages, one end of the train has an open-air viewing platform from which to soak up views of viaducts, picturesque gorges and the fertile Canterbury Plains before arriving in Christchurch.

After checking in to our hotel, we mark our last night in New Zealand with a farewell group dinner. Overnight Christchurch.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY14Traveling home

From Wellington to Christchurch, this remarkable tour has shown us the very best of New Zealand's South Island. Journeying on the celebrated Coastal Pacific, the TranzAlpine and the Taieri Gorge Railroad, we enjoyed breathtaking views of the island's towering mountains, shimmering lakes and beautiful coastline. We saw natural wonders including Te Anau's Glowworm Caves, Franz Josef Glacier and Mount Cook (Aoraki), and visited vibrant cities including Christchurch, Dunedin and Queenstown. Our tour ended with two scenic cruises along the glacial Lake Wakatipu and Milford Sound in the UNESCO-listed Fiordland National Park.

This morning after breakfast, your vacation draws to a close and you can begin your journey home.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours, they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. Please reference our Mobility Ratings Information, and if you’d like to discuss any particular vacation with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us at 1-877-929-7245.

Hotels

Scenic Hotel Dunedin City, Dunedin
Scenic Hotel Dunedin City, Dunedin
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Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier, Franz Josef
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier, Franz Josef
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Copthorne Hotel Queenstown Lakeview, Queenstown
Copthorne Hotel Queenstown Lakeview, Queenstown
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Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Te Anau
Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Te Anau
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Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel, Twizel
Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel, Twizel
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James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor, Wellington
James Cook Hotel Grand Chancellor, Wellington
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Crowne Plaza Hotel, Christchurch
Crowne Plaza Hotel, Christchurch
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Trains

See more details about this tour's trains.

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Coastal Pacific
Coastal Pacific

Operating between Picton and Christchurch, this celebrated train crosses 211 miles of New Zealand's South Island. The route follows the rugged Pacific coast against a backdrop of two mountain ranges; the Seaward and Inland Kaikoura Ranges. Along the way, passengers can take advantage of the Coastal Pacific's open viewing carriage and single-class carriages with large windows. South of Picton, the route passes through Marlborough, New Zealand's world-renowned wine-growing area, before winding between the mountains and the sea. Onboard, passengers can purchase snacks and drinks from the buffet car.

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Taieri Gorge Railway
Taieri Gorge Railway

The Taieri Gorge Railroad is one of New Zealand's most scenic train journeys. Departing from the Dunedin, the train travels deep into the mountainous landscapes of Central Otago, crossing immense, hand-carved viaducts and historic bridges en route to Pukerangi.

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TranzAlpine
TranzAlpine

Running once a day, the TranzAlpine is one of the most scenic railway journeys in New Zealand. The most impressive section is between Arthur's Pass and Christchurch. The journey takes us across the rich grazing farmland of the Canterbury Plain, through the Waimakiriri River Gorge, and over the spectacular mountains of the Southern Alps. Onboard, passengers can visit the buffet car, open viewing carriage and single-class carriages with large windows.

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Enhance your trip

Extend your stay

Many of our guests choose to spend additional nights before or after their trip. Great Rail Journeys would be happy to make hotel arrangements for you.