Embark on an unforgettable journey through New Zealand’s South Island, where dramatic alpine landscapes, glacial wonders, and crystal-clear lakes come together to create a truly immersive travel experience.
✨ Highlights:
✅ Christchurch – Discover the “Garden City,” where historic charm meets modern innovation. Stroll through the Botanic Gardens and explore the revitalized city center.
✅ Lake Tekapo – Take in the vibrant turquoise waters, visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Southern Alps beneath some of the clearest night skies in the world.
✅ Queenstown – Experience New Zealand’s adventure capital, set along the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Choose from adrenaline-filled activities or simply relax and soak in the stunning alpine scenery.
✅ Wanaka – Unwind in this peaceful alpine retreat, known for its natural beauty, boutique charm, and the famous lone tree standing gracefully in Lake Wanaka.
✅ Franz Josef – Journey into glacier country to explore the awe-inspiring Franz Josef Glacier, enjoy scenic rainforest walks, and relax in natural hot pools.
Welcome to New Zealand! Upon arrival at Christchurch International Airport, you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. Known as the “Garden City,” Christchurch blends historic charm with modern creativity. After check-in, take time to unwind or enjoy a leisurely stroll through its scenic streets and green spaces.
Overnight in Christchurch.
Hotel: The Observatory Hotel ★★★★★
Room: Deluxe room
Welcome aboard the Christchurch Tram! Travel on our newly extended track & enjoy this unique and historic way to view the inner city. Drivers provide a live and entertaining commentary. A full circuit takes 50 minutes, includes 18 stops and there are up to four Trams operating. Trams run approximately every 15 minutes (season dependent) and your ticket lasts all day as a hop on and off pass. Once booked, please collect your tickets with your booking reference number from the booking office located in Cathedral Junction 109 Worcester St.
Overnight in Christchurch.
Hotel: The Observatory Hotel ★★★★★
Room: Deluxe room
Meals: Breakfast
Today, set out on a scenic journey by cab through the Canterbury Plains towards the breathtaking Lake Tekapo. Famed for its striking turquoise waters and dramatic alpine backdrop, this serene destination offers postcard-perfect views at every turn. Visit the charming Church of the Good Shepherd and soak in the tranquillity of this magical setting.
Overnight in Lake Tekapo.
Hotel: Ranginui at Lake Tekapo ★★★★★
Room: King Bedroom
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, continue your journey by cab through ever-changing landscapes as you travel towards the adventure capital of New Zealand—Queenstown. Surrounded by majestic mountains and set along the shimmering Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown welcomes you with its vibrant energy and stunning natural beauty. The evening is yours to relax or explore.
Overnight in Queenstown.
Hotel: The Central Hotel Queenstown, A Naumi Chapter ★★★★★
Room: Oasis Room
Meals: Breakfast
Join talented and knowledgeable guides on a journey along one of New Zealand's most scenic drives. All guides have unique and insightful stories to share, and spill the secrets of their beautiful backyard as you travel through lush rainforest, glacier carved valleys, alpine lookouts and much more. Enjoy spectacular short walks and incredible photo stops before arriving at the main event, magical Milford Sound. On arrival at Milford Sound, board a modern and spacious catamaran exploration of the region’s most famous fiord. As the boat travels the length of the fiord to the Tasman Sea, the welcoming crew will share what they know about their place, its wildlife, waterfalls, and fascinating history. Enjoy complimentary lunch before joining the crew for a dance in the spray of pure glacial melt as the boat noses close Stirling Falls for a refreshing finale!
Return to Queenstown in the evening.
Overnight in Queenstown.
Hotel: The Central Hotel Queenstown, A Naumi Chapter ★★★★★
Room: Oasis Room
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, enjoy a picturesque drive to the charming town of Wanaka. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking lake views, Wanaka offers a peaceful contrast to Queenstown’s buzz. Take a leisurely walk along the lake or simply relax and soak in the beauty of your surroundings.
Overnight in Wanaka.
Hotel: Golfcourse Road Chalets & Lodge ★★★★
Room: King Bedroom
Meals: Breakfast
Today’s journey is nothing short of spectacular as you travel along one of the most scenic routes in New Zealand towards Franz Josef. Pass through lush rainforests, rugged coastlines, and dramatic mountain landscapes before arriving in glacier country. The region’s raw beauty and unique terrain create an unforgettable experience.
Overnight in Franz Josef.
Hotel: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier ★★★★
Room: Superior Room
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, continue your journey by cab to Christchurch and board one of New Zealand’s most iconic train experiences. Sit back and relax as you pass through stunning alpine scenery, rolling countryside, and dramatic gorges - an unforgettable way to conclude your South Island adventure.
Overnight in Christchurch.
Hotel: The Observatory Hotel ★★★★★
Room: Deluxe Room
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand. Check out from your hotel and transfer to Christchurch International Airport for your onward journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of this extraordinary escape.
Meals: Breakfast
Departure Dates from Los Angeles:
Inclusions:
Round-trip Flights with baggage
Scenic Train tickets from:
- Franz Josef to Christchurch
Intercity Air Conditioned Transfers From:
Airport Transfers throughout the itinerary
3 Night stay at the 5★ The Observatory Hotel, Christchurch with Breakfast
1 Night stay at the 5★ Ranginui at Lake Tekapo, Lake Tekapo
2 Night stay at the 5★ The Central Hotel Queenstown, A Naumi Chapter, Queenstown with Breakfast
1 Night stay at the 4★ Golfcourse Road Chalets & Lodge, Wanaka with Breakfast
1 Night stay at the 4★ Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier, Franz Josef with Breakfast
One day Christchurch Tram Ticket
Milford Sound Coach and Cruise tour from Queenstown
Based on 2 adults sharing
We always strive to confirm the hotels listed in the package you choose, but in rare cases where we can't, like-for-like alternatives will be provided