5-Day South Island Tour from Christchurch

Highlights

Begin your 5-day exploration of New Zealand's South Island with hotel pickup in Christchurch. Peer through the windows of your comfortable coach at the vivid scenery while you journey through the foothills of the Southern Alps. Your guide makes a stop at Mt. Cook for lunch (own expense) before your first night in Queenstown, including free time to explore at your leisure. After a memorable cruise on Milford Sound, nestled in the UNESCO-listed Fiordland National Park, drive along Haast Pass to Westland National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The rugged West Coast route takes you past soaring mountain ranges, native forests and lakes to the must-see Franz Josef Glacier, where you spend the night with scenic views. On the final day, travel to the reconstructed gold-rush town of Shantytown. Conclude your South Island tour with a train trip from Greymouth aboard the TranzAlpine Express. The route takes you over the Southern Alps through Arthur's Pass to Christchurch, renowned as one of the world’s top 10 train journeys.

Summary

Begin your 5-day exploration of New Zealand's South Island with hotel pickup in Christchurch. Peer through the windows of your comfortable coach at the vivid scenery while you journey through the foothills of the Southern Alps. Your guide makes a stop at Mt. Cook for lunch (own expense) before your first night in Queenstown, including free time to explore at your leisure. After a memorable cruise on Milford Sound, nestled in the UNESCO-listed Fiordland National Park, drive along Haast Pass to Westland National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The rugged West Coast route takes you past soaring mountain ranges, native forests and lakes to the must-see Franz Josef Glacier, where you spend the night with scenic views. On the final day, travel to the reconstructed gold-rush town of Shantytown. Conclude your South Island tour with a train trip from Greymouth aboard the TranzAlpine Express. The route takes you over the Southern Alps through Arthur's Pass to Christchurch, renowned as one of the world’s top 10 train journeys.

Tour info

Duration

5 days

Why take this tour?

See all the highlights of New Zealand's scenic South Island on this five-day guided sightseeing tour. Travel by coach from Christchurch to Queenstown, experience the majesty of Milford Sound, view the glacier at Franz Josef and travel aboard the famous TranzAlpine Express train. Highlights include Mount Cook, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Haast Past, Franz Joseph and the incredible TranzAlpine Rail Journey

What’s included?

Air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Live commentary on board
Accommodation as per itinerary
Milford Sound Cruise
Tranz Alpine from Greymouth to Christchurch
Entry/Admission - Christchurch
Food and drinks, unless specified
Gratuities

Things to know

Before you book

Duration: 5 days
Mobile tickets accepted

Cancellation Policy

If you cancel at least 7 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.

Operator Website

Operated by:

Leisure Tours

About operator:

This Waipara wine region tour takes you to visit four wineries, with tastings, in a half-day trip from Christchurch. Enjoy samples of local reds and whites without worry of designating a driver as transportation is included. Listen to a guide's commentary about the local terroir to learn about the region as you travel. Upgrade to include a lunch with wine pairings.