Trip StyleClassic

South Island Sojourn

15 days ex Christchurch

Trip Code: ONSS

Christchurch, Tranz Alpine Railway, Queenstown, Te Anau & Milford Sound, Mt Cook

New Zealand’s South Island is a land of jaw-dropping contrasts: snow-capped mountains, shining lakes, hidden coves and plunging fjords. It’s like a giant outdoor playground, and however you travel through this Tolkien-worthy landscape—feet, bike or boat—it’ll leave you breathless.

Day 1 Arrival Christchurch

Arrive in Christchurch at any time.

Day 2 Otira

Head into the vast Canterbury Plains and Otira via the Tranz Alpine railway, one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. Time for an afternoon walk through Otira Gorge and a beer with the locals at the Otira pub.

Day 3-4 Franz Josef

Make your way down the rugged West Coast to the town of Franz Josef, famous for its glacier hiking. Strap on some crampons for a guided walk on this amazing river of ice.

Day 5-7 Queenstown

Travel to the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown. Whatever gets your adrenaline moving, it’s here: from bungee jumping to steam boat rides, jet boat rides to wine tours, skydiving, hot air ballooning, mountain biking, hiking, and kayaking.

Day 8-9 Te Anau & Milford Sound

Head south towards Te Anau and breathtaking Milford Sound, in World Heritage Fiordland National Park. Take a boat cruise or kayak the fjords Rudyard Kipling called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.”

Day 10-11 Omakau, Central Otago (B,L,D)

Travel through wine country into the heart of Otago’s farm land and spend the next couple of days off the beaten track in Omakau. Trade boots for a helmet for an optional bike ride through the ‘real’ New Zealand. Stop at a local pub for a drink and lunch.

Day 12-13 Mackenzie Country (B)

Head toward the foothills of the Southern Alps and Mt Cook, New Zealand's tallest mountain. Options include a scenic flight around Mt Cook, boat trip to Tasman Glacier, and alpine hikes.

Day 14 Christchurch

Head back to the Canterbury plains and Christchurch, with time for some last minute shopping or sightseeing and one last evening with the group.

Day 15 Depart Christchurch