Date

Itinerary

30 Dec 19

Welcome to Christchurch

Welcome Reception and dinner with your Travel Director and fellow travellers.

Hotel: Ibis Hotel Christchurch (D)

31 Dec 19

Christchurch – Franz Josef

This morning, board the iconic TranzAlpine train and take one of the world’s great rail journeys. Pass through magnificent landscapes ranging from the lush pastureland of the Canterbury Plains to the rugged gorges and pristine ice-fed streams and lakes of the Southern Alps. Alight at Arthur’s Pass, the highest settlement on the South Island, and continue to Hokitika, home of New Zealand’s famous greenstone. Pounamu (its Māori name) is of great cultural significance in Māori culture and was prized for its strength, durability and beauty. Continue to Franz Josef Glacier. Hotel: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (Graham Wing)  (B/D)

01 Jan 20

Franz Josef – Queenstown

Drive over the spectacular Haast Pass this morning, passing the 96-metre Thunder Creek Falls, and serene Lakes Wanaka, Hawea and Dunstan.  Visit the historic gold-mining settlement of Arrowtown, where more than 70 original buildings from the gold-rush era are preserved. An orientation tour of the town, which sits on the shores of crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu among dramatic mountain ranges, completes your day.  Hotel: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown (B)

02 Jan 20

Queenstown 

Explore New Zealand’s adventure capital at your own pace today. There are jet boat rides and white water rafting for the thrill-seekers, and wine tours or intimate cafés for those who enjoy a more leisurely rhythm. You might like to visit the picturesque Queenstown Gardens and enjoy its beautiful tulips in spring or glorious roses in summer. Take a peaceful cruise this evening across Lake Wakatipu aboard the century-old TSS Earnslaw, Your destination is Walter Peak High Country Farm, where you’ll enjoy a gourmet barbecue Highlight Dinner and entertaining after-dinner show offering glimpses of high-country farm life. Hotel: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown  (B/D)

03 Jan 20

Queenstown – Te Anau

On your way to Milford Sound you’ll be awestruck by the towering native rainforests and rugged mountains of Fiordland National Park. Your cruise on the magnificent Sound takes in cascading waterfalls, hanging glacial valleys, and the sheer pinnacle of Mitre Peak.  Return to lakeside Te Anau. Hotel: Distinction Luxmore Hotel.  (B/D)

04 Jan 19

Te Anau – Dunedin

Journey through lush green sheepgrazing country on your way to Dunedin this morning. After a city tour, the afternoon is yours to enjoy as you please. Sit back and relax, ride the historic Taieri Gorge railway or perhaps take a wildlife cruise to spot penguins and Royal Albatross. Hotel: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City  (B/D)

05 Jan 19

Dunedin – Omarama

This morning during a tour of the city you’ll have the opportunity to visit the stately home known as Larnach Castle. Then set out for the historic town of Oamaru, with its elegant tree-lined streets and celebrated white limestone buildings. Later, follow the course of the mighty Waitaki River, passing the monumental Waitaki Hydro Power Scheme and Aviemore on your way to Omarama.  Hotel: Heritage Gateway Hotel   (B/D)

06 Jan 19

Omarama – Christchurch

Travel through the awe-inspiring Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park. At 3,724 metres, Aoraki/Mt. Cook is New Zealand’s highest mountain. Stop at serene Lake Tekapo, and view the famous Church of the Good Shepherd, whose altar window frames a perfect view of the Southern Alps beyond the lake. Later, traverse the fertile Canterbury Plains and return to the vibrant city of Christchurch, where your holiday began.  Hotel: Ibis Hotel (B)

07 Jan 19

Farewell from Christchurch

Bid farewell to your fellow travellers when your holiday comes to an end this morning after breakfast. (B)