Welcome to Christchurch!! Set against a majestic backdrop from the Alps to the ocean, Christchurch and Canterbury offer visitors a unique and diverse destination. From Christchurch city, you’ll find the sparkling Pacific Ocean, the majestic Southern Alps and an ancient volcanic peninsula all within driving distance.Christchurch is New Zealand's largest South Island city. Set on the expansive Canterbury Plains between the Pacific Ocean and the mighty snow-capped Southern Alps it is a vibrant, ever-changing city. The city is interwoven by the meandering Avon River, linking parks, gardens and avenues. On arrival in Christchurch, you will collect rental car and drive to your accommodation.
After breakfast, we head to Queenstown. On your Self Drive to Queenstown, there are 2 route options. (The Coastal Route) & (The Inland Route), popular & shorter route to reach Queenstown is “The Inland Route”. It is a great way to see some of the best places in New Zealand. You can head to Lake Tekapo to marvel at the views and go to Mount Cook to see this incredible mountain. At Lake Tekapo the solitary ‘Church of the Good Shepherd’ takes pride of place against the backdrop of the vivid blue glacier-fed lake.Follow the shores of beautiful Lake Pukaki and through the historic Central Otago region to Queenstown.Queenstown sits on the shore of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu among dramatic alpine ranges; it’s rumoured that gold prospectors - captivated by the majestic beauty of the surrounding mountains and rivers - gave this now cosmopolitan town its name.Queenstown is the home of the ultimate adventure bucket list. There’s skiing in the winter and activities such as bungy jumping, sky diving, canyon swinging, jet boating, horse trekking and river rafting all year round. It has also become a renowned cycling destination, providing everything from easy scenic tracks to backcountry trails, road rides to heli-biking and the Southern Hemisphere’s only gondola accessed downhill mountain biking. On arrival in Queenstown, we head to our hotel & relax after Check-In
After breakfast, we discover the best views in town with our great saving, high flying combo. Begin your day on an adrenaline fuelled Jet boat ride and then take to the skies on an incredible scenic Helicopter flight over Queenstown. Your trip includes an alpine landing 5,000 feet above sea level on the remarkables spur. There is no better way to experience Queenstown’s stunning scenery.
After breakfast, we depart to Te Anau. Enroute we experience the peacefulness & tranquility of Doubtful Sound. Sometimes called 'the Sound of Silence', there is a cloistered serenity within Doubtful Sound that contrasts with Milford Sound. The fiord is rich in flora and fauna, New Zealand Fur Seals and Fiordland Crested Penguins can be seen on many of the small islets at the entrance of the fiord. Enjoy 2 boat Cruises included on Lake Manapouri & Doubtful Sound. Later we proceed to Te Anau. The picturesque township of Te Anau is the main visitor base for the glacier-carved wilderness that is Fiordland National Park.
We depart for Invercargill this morning where on arrival we will transfer to Bluff to catch our express catamarans to Stewart Island. Guest can experience Foveaux Strait and also have opportunity to keep a lookout for wildlife, especially seabirds, albatross etc. Comprehensive commentaries provide information on the Interesting landmarks such as Dog Island Lighthouse, Ruapuke Island, Titi Islands & Mt Anglem – Stewart Island’s highest point. On arrival in Oban (Stewart Island), guest will enjoy a guided tour of the island by mini coach. Starting from Oban Village, your local guide will explain about local knowledge of the history & environment of Stewart Island. You will have opportunity to see Lee Bay, Halfmoon Bay & Horseshow Bay.
After breakfast we set out to enjoy a leisurely cruise of beautiful Paterson Inlet viewing hidden coves and unspoilt beaches. Today we have opportunity to learn about the Maori History & European Settlement including Whaling. We then disembark at Ulva Island, a wildlife sanctuary for a guided walking tour with specialist nature guide. View rare plants and rich birdlife, including the inquisitive weka, which are often seen on the beach. The island sanctuary is located within Paterson Inlet (Whaka a Te Wera) and offers the opportunity to view rarer native species including weka, kākā, kākāriki, tūī, bellbirds (korimako), pigeons (kereru), fantails (piwakawaka), tomtit (miromiro) and brown creeper (pīpipi).Some lucky visitors to the sanctuary have also seen the Stewart Island brown kiwi (tokoeka) during the day.
Today we take a return ferry from Oban (Stewart Island) to Bluff. On arrival, we proceed to Invercargill. Fondly known as the "City of Water and Light", referring to the long summer daylight hours, frequent appearances of the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights). Invercargill has plenty of character and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere - except when it comes to celebrating Southland’s obsession with classic motoring! On arrival, Check-In at Hotel in Invercargill
The drive from Invercargill to Dunedin via the Catlin’s Coast may seem short. However, the Catlins are ecologically unique and still relatively untouched by the large commercial tourist ventures enabling a more low-key nature focussed experience. Native coastal bush and forest, waterways, beaches, birds and sealife combine with the coast’s temperamental weather to make your visit to the South a memorable one. On arrival in Dunedin, guest can proceed directly to Larnach Castle & Gardens. Larnach Castle is New Zealand’s only castle situated on the Otago Peninsula & is located around 30 mins drive from Dunedin. You can visit the Castle and discover its rich history that dates back to 1871 as well as explore the exquisite gardens, which have attained a Garden of International Significance award from the New Zealand Gardens Trust.
Depart Dunedin and travel towards north to the “Garden City” of Christchurch. In the evening enjoy a 4 Course Dinner Service on Tramway Restaurant. Experience the luxury of our 36 Seater air-conditioned, colonial style dining tram and be treated to the finest service, cuisine and beverages New Zealand has to offer. Incorporate fabulous dining with a sightseeing tour showcasing Christchurch’s inner city vibrancy and heritage – truly a mix of the old and the new. The Christchurch Tramway Restaurant dinner tour is a unique activity not to be missed.
Depending on your flight times we will head to Christchurch Airport for your flight to Onward Destination. We trust you enjoyed your New Zealand Holiday & we look to plan your next holiday soon.
