Join us on this guided scenic tour across the Cook Strait, past the mighty Southern Alps and through the Wild West Coast to beautiful Queenstown.
Highlights
- Sip world-class wine among the vines in Marlborough
- Experience the Southern Alps by world-renowned TranzAlpine train journey
- Whales, dolphins, and sea life – spend a day by the ocean in Kaikōura
- Discover Haast Pass on a unique Kiwi-style Road Trip adventure
- Uncover the home of the sacred pounamu, mesmerising blue lakes, and ancient forests on the West Coast
- Be captivated by the storytelling of your Tour Director throughout your great journey
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You'll love this tour
This is the perfect option for those who enjoy free time to create their own adventure while having the structure of a guided expert. Meet like-minded travellers and share this journey of a lifetime on a truly magnificent expedition.
Inclusions
- Experienced Tour Director
- Christchurch City Tour
- Marlborough Wine Experience
- West Coast Tree Top Walk
- Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Walk
- World-Famous Scenic Train Journeys
- Cook Strait Ferry Crossing
- Free time and optional excursions to personalise your holiday
What you get along the way
Transportation
- Coastal Pacific Scenic Train
- Interislander Ferry journey across the Cook Strait
- TranzAlpine Scenic Train
- Private Coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage
Meals
- 10 Breakfasts
- 3 Dinners
- 2 Meals on the train
Accommodation
- 3.5 - 4 Star Hotel (10 nights)
- Twin Share
- Single Upgrade Available
Minimum Age:
- 16 years and over
- Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
Group Size
Maximum of 35 people.
Itinerary
- Interislander Ferry
- Marlborough Wine Tour
- Christchurch Tram City Tour
- Group Dinner
- TranzAlpine Scenic Journey
- Punakaiki Pancake Rock Excursion
- West Coast Tree Top Walk
- Short nature walk to glacier viewing point
- Scenic coach journey through Haast Pass with stops along the way
- Haast Visitors Centre, Mrs Jones' Fruit Stall and Arrowtown Visit
Explore Wellington
Kia Ora!
Welcome to Wellington – New Zealand’s capital city! Wellington is known for its world-class dining, great coffee and eccentric shops.
After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Wellington has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to get cultured at Te Papa Museum or grab a drink at one of the many quirky bars on Cuba Street. You may even fancy a ride on the cable car!
After an exciting day on the town, your tour will officially begin as you join your fellow travellers and Tour Director at this evening’s welcome reception.
Accommodation
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation(1 night)
Meals Included
A welcome dinner is included in tonight's reception.
Activities
Welcome Reception
Crossing the Cook Strait
This morning you will say poroporoaki ki te motu raki (good-bye to the North Island) as you sail to the South Island, crossing the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry. As the shores of the North Island slowly disappear, enjoy a hearty seafaring breakfast on board.
Around midday, you will be spoiled with captivating harbour views as you enter the Queen Charlotte Sound. Admire the beauty of this coastal paradise as you arrive at the gateway of the South Island, Picton. Step off the Interislander Ferry and join your next world-class experience onboard a Marlborough Wine Tour!
Accommodation
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation(1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Activities
The Coastal Pacific Scenic Train
The morning is yours to explore. Meander through the local craft stores and coastal walks in Picton, or perhaps discover the Omaka Aviation Museum in Blenheim. Enjoy the waterfront cafés before boarding the Coastal Pacific train for another highlight rail journey through the Marlborough Wine Region.
Today you will be travelling into Kaikōura. Relax and let the train glide you across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breathtaking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks!
Once in Kaikōura, the evening will be yours to enjoy some iconic kai moana (seafood) at one of the quaint restaurants.
Accommodation
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation (1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities
Coastal Pacific Scenic Train Experience
Explore Kaikōura
Today will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You will have the opportunity to go whale watching! Enjoy today’s optional thrill of an up-close encounter with the world's largest-toothed predator, the Giant Sperm Whale, who live in the waters of Kaikoura year-round.
Want to get an aerial experience of the wildlife? Why not request a plane ride to capture the true grandeur of it all?
Whether you have decided to go whale watching or swimming with the dolphins and seals, we're sure you will be feeling peckish. Head to the hub of the action on the main street to sample some iconic New Zealand food - you can't go wrong with the humble Kiwiana fish and chips. Work off the deep-fried delights by wandering through the wonderful array of local artisan stores and souvenir shops.
In the late afternoon, your journey will continue, once again, on the Coastal Pacific Train en route to Christchurch, or “The Garden City”. The spectacular scenery won’t cease to amaze as you journey south through the rolling hills and extensive plains. Enjoy the relaxing journey with a glass of wine in hand.
Accommodation
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation (2 nights in Christchurch)
Meals
Breakfast
Activities
Coastal Pacific Scenic Train Journey
Explore Christchurch
Christchurch, the hub for South Island exploration, is also a wonderful city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican ‘gothic revival’ architectural influence. Often remembered for its earthquake in 2011, the city is rebuilding itself as a multi-cultural haven. So, without further delay, jump on the historic tram to learn the history, tales, and culture of Ōtautahi Christchurch.
Enjoy your free time as you explore the Arts Centre, Quake City Museum, Christchurch Art Gallery, and Botanical Gardens. Ride on the city tram to uncover Christchurch's great history, or relax as you punt on the Avon River. There is also a multitude of delicious cafés tucked into quaint side streets we're sure you will love. If you are in the mood for something different, set off for Akaroa, an ‘incroyable’ French coastal settlement just an hour and half from the city centre.
Dinner awaits as you join your fellow travellers once again to tell them about the exciting places you have discovered.
Accommodation
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation(2 nights in Christchurch)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
The TranzAlpine Scenic Train
The moment has come to experience the world-famous TranzAlpine scenic train journey through the Southern Alps, emerging in the West Coast!
On this fantastic escape, you will see epic vistas, soar on the edges of the ice fed Waimakariri River, traverse through the Great Divide, and experience ever changing landscapes. The natural scenery isn’t the only marvel though. The TranzAlpine passes through the Otira Tunnel, a true engineering marvel of 100 years!
Once you arrive at the West Coast, a private coach will take you even further off the beaten track to Punakaiki, where you will explore curious limestone rock formations and blowholes.
Accommodation
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation(1 night)
Meals Included
Breakfast
Activities Included
Explore the West Coast
This morning you start your West Coast adventure by visiting one of the South Island’s most popular activities– the West Coast Tree Top Walk. This elevated adventure will get you acquainted with the locals – the ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees.
After your sky-high experience, continue south into Glacier Country. Franz Josef Glacier is quite special in that it survives in the warm coastal rainforest temperatures. With a short walk to a viewpoint, you'll get a fantastic view of the vast valley, as well as a sneak peek of Franz Josef Glacier itself. If you would prefer to get up close, we recommend booking an optional helicopter flight. This will ensure you are getting the best possible view of this natural wonder.
After your glacial experience and checking into the hotel, you’ll have some free time to enjoy Franz Josef town. Indulge in a helicopter flight, nature walk or tap into some natural tranquillity at the local hot pools.
Accommodation
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation(1 night)
Meals
Breakfast
Activities
A Unique Kiwi Style Road Trip
Today you will be exploring the mountainous Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey to Queenstown will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. Marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and stunning glaciers as your Tour Director guides you between local hidden gems.
Emerging on the other side of the pass, explore a local fruit hotspot before exploring the cobblestone streets of the historic goldmining settlement of Arrowtown.
After an exciting plunge into the history of this gold rush village, you will arrive in the world-famous resort town of Queenstown!
Accommodation
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation(3 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals
Breakfast
Activities
Explore Queenstown
Enjoy a free day to explore everything Queenstown has to offer.
Today, we highly recommend you join an excursion to the 8th Wonder of the World - it truly is a remarkable experience. Milford Sounds/ Piopiotahi is a scenic escape approximately three hours from Queenstown. The natural landscape will engulf you as you waltz through plunging valleys and towering peaks. Take this encounter to the next level by booking a return visit by plane or helicopter and soar like the Piopio (ancient bird) back to Queenstown.
Whether you’ve decided to hop aboard the steamship lake cruise on the iconic TSS Earnslaw, or marvel at the power of ancient roaring rivers - tonight you have a free evening to indulge in Queenstown's exciting nightlife. Sip cocktails and indulge in the sparkling views of Lake Wakatipu.
Accommodation
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation (3 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals Included
Breakfast
The Close to an Adventure of a Lifetime
Queenstown truly has something for everyone. Personalise your day to be as active or relaxed as you’d like. Whether it’s exploring Walter Peak on a horse trekking adventure, joining the historic steamship across Lake Wakatipu or sipping wine in Gibbston Valley, there is no shortage of activities to delight your senses.
This evening, is your ‘final hurrah’ as you enjoy a farewell dinner. This is the perfect time to reminisce and share photos and phone numbers with your new friends.
Accommodation
3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation(3 Nights in Queenstown)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Farewell Dinner
Departing Queenstown
Departing Queenstown
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travellers.
Not ready to leave Queenstown? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay.
Meals
Breakfast
Activities
Transfer to airport
Included activities
Our Classic Southern Highlights Tour provides the perfect balance of must-see activities and free time to explore. The following activities are included:
Recommended additional activities
There are dozens of optional activities you can enjoy on our Classic Southern Highlights Tour, but these are our top four must-do activities:
Included journeys
Our Classic Southern Highlights Tour includes three of the greatest journeys in New Zealand - the Interislander Cook Strait crossing, Coastal Pacific train, and TranzAlpine train.
Journey highlights
The journey is part of the destination on our tours, and our Scenic trains and ferries are the ultimate way to see New Zealand.
On our Classic Southern Highlights Tour, your journey begins aboard the Interislander Cook Strait ferry cruising through Wellington Harbour and the magnificent Marlborough Sounds.
From Picton, you'll voyage through vineyards and along the Pacific Coast to Kaikoura and then Christchurch aboard the Coastal Pacific train.
Your final journey is aboard the TranzAlpine train, traversing the Southern Alps on a breathtaking journey from east to West Coast.
Available Dates
Product Code: CWQ
Our Classic Southern Highlights Tour departs on the following dates. To book your place, either call us on 0800 872 467 (+64 4 495 0775) or click the Book Now button and complete the enquiry form. You can choose to pay 20% and then pay the balance 66 days before departure.
Start Queenstown
30 SEPT 2023
days
12
Finish Wellington
11 OCT 2023
NZ$
6599
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
10 OCT 2023
days
11
Finish Queenstown
20 OCT 2023
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
28 NOV 2023
days
11
Finish Queenstown
8 DEC 2023
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
12 DEC 2023
days
11
Finish Queenstown
22 DEC 2023
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
2 JAN 2024
days
11
Finish Queenstown
12 JAN 2024
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
30 JAN 2024
days
11
Finish Queenstown
9 FEB 2024
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
27 FEB 2024
days
11
Finish Queenstown
8 MAR 2024
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
5 MAR 2024
days
11
Finish Queenstown
15 MAR 2024
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
26 MAR 2024
days
11
Finish Queenstown
5 APR 2024
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
9 APR 2024
days
11
Finish Queenstown
19 APR 2024
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
23 APR 2024
days
11
Finish Queenstown
3 MAY 2024
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
24 SEPT 2024
days
11
Finish Queenstown
4 OCT 2024
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
17 DEC 2024
days
11
Finish Queenstown
27 DEC 2024
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
21 JAN 2025
days
11
Finish Queenstown
31 JAN 2025
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
11 FEB 2025
days
11
Finish Queenstown
21 FEB 2025
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Start Wellington
1 APR 2025
days
11
Finish Queenstown
11 APR 2025
NZ$
6299
per person
twin/share
Solo Traveller Options
Guaranteed Share: If you are a solo traveller, you can choose the guaranteed Share option, and we will match you with another solo traveller of the same gender in a twin-bedded room. If we can't match you with another solo traveller, we will cover the Single Supplement cost.
Single Supplement: If you are a Solo Traveller and would like a room to yourself, you can select to pay the Single Supplement when confirming your booking.
Symbol Key
This tour date is guaranteed to depart
Single supplement available
Hurry! This tour is either almost sold out or close to departure
Important Information
Any questions?
Our super-friendly and knowledgeable Travel Centre team is on hand to answer your questions. Whether it's pricing, availability, future dates and tour options, or extended itineraries.
Give us a call or contact us online, we can't wait to hear from you!
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