You'll love this tour
Highlights
- Experience the Southern Alps on the world-renowned TranzAlpine
- Uncover the home of the sacred pounamu, mesmerising blue lakes, and ancient forests on the West Coast
- Discover Haast Pass on a unique Kiwi-style road trip adventure
- Be captivated by the storytelling of your tour director along this great journey
- Explore the Milford Sound aboard a scenic cruise
- Admire the sparkling Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship
What's included
Activities
- Experienced tour director
- Guided pounamu experience including Hokitika Gorge Walk
- Haast River Safari
- VIP West Coast Wildlife Centre, guided Kiwi walk
- Milford Sound day tour and cruise
- TSS Earnslaw cruise and dinner excursion
- World-class scenic train journey TranzAlpine
*Please note: Tour inclusions may vary depending on the season.
Transport
- TranzAlpine scenic train
- Private coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage at selected locations
- Fully guided
Meals
- 6 Breakfasts
- 1 Lunch
- 3 Dinners
- 1 Meal on the train
Accommodation
- 4 - 4.5 star hotels (6 nights)
- Twin share
- Single upgrade available
Minimum age
- 16 years and over
- Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
Group size
Maximum of 20 peopleWhat's included
Activities
- Experienced tour director
- Guided pounamu experience including Hokitika Gorge Walk
- Haast River Safari
- VIP West Coast Wildlife Centre, guided Kiwi walk
- Milford Sound day tour and cruise
- World-class scenic train journey TranzAlpine
*Please note: Tour inclusions may vary depending on the season.
Transport
- TranzAlpine scenic train
- Private coaches to reach regional gems
- Private shuttles (excluding airport arrival)
- Porterage at selected locations
- Fully guided
Meals
- 6 Breakfasts
- 1 Lunch
- 3 Dinners
- 1 Meal on the train
Accommodation
- 4–4.5 star hotels (6 nights)
- Twin share
- Single upgrade available
Minimum age
- 16 years and over
- Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
Group size
- Maximum of 20 people
I've been on many tours & this was overall the best, by far - and I firmly believe it was because of the brilliant tour director - Marie
Explore Christchurch
Kia ora!
Welcome to Christchurch – New Zealand’s Garden City. The largest city in the South Island, Christchurch is known for its historical earthquake in 2011 and how it rebuilt itself into a charming, multicultural city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican 'gothic revival' architectural influence.
After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your tour director, head out and explore all that Christchurch has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to wander through the enticing stalls at Riverside Market or explore the botanical gardens before heading to the art gallery, museums, and other city attractions.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals included
Dinner
The TranzAlpine scenic train
The moment has arrived to experience the world-famous TranzAlpine, indulging in the Scenic Plus service as you journey through the breathtaking Southern Alps and emerge onto the untamed West Coast.
On this unforgettable escape, marvel at dramatic alpine vistas, glide along the ice-fed Waimakariri River, and cross the Great Divide. As the landscape transforms before your eyes.
You’ll also traverse the historic Ōtira Tunnel, an engineering triumph over a century old. Along the way, enjoy regionally inspired food and rich commentary that enhances your Scenic Plus experience.
Arriving in Greymouth, you’ll be met by a private coach and taken even further off the beaten track.
Enjoy a custom Greenstone experience - a special insight into the cultural significance and artistry of pounamu (New Zealand jade). Then stretch your legs on a guided walk through the stunning Hokitika Gorge, where vivid turquoise waters wind through lush native bush.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals included
Breakfast, Lunch
Activities
TranzAlpine Scenic Plus
Custom greenstone experience & guided walk around Hokitika Gorge
Explore the West Coast
This morning, your West Coast journey continues with a VIP experience at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, a special, guided walkthrough designed exclusively for Great Journeys New Zealand guests.
Go behind the scenes to learn about the conservation efforts for the rare Rowi kiwi and discover the secrets of this fascinating native species in a truly immersive encounter.
After your wildlife experience, enjoy free time in Franz Josef to explore at your own pace. Take a short scenic walk to the glacier viewpoint, browse the charming local shops, or choose from optional adventures such as a thrilling helicopter flight over the glacier or a serene wilderness tour through the rainforest.
This evening, rejoin your group for a culinary highlight: a four-course dinner at Te Waonui Forest Retreat, where locally sourced ingredients and refined flavours are served in a tranquil rainforest setting.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Coach journey to Franz Josef
VIP West Coast Wildlife centre, guided walkthrough of Kiwi (exclusive to Great Journeys New Zealand)
4 course dinner at Te Waonui
Explore the Southern Lakes
Today you will explore the Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey of about five hours to Queenstown, will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. While aboard an exciting river boat and private coach, marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and majestic glaciers as your tour director guides you between local hidden gems. Stop in unique locations that only locals know about.
After an exciting plunge into the history of this gold rush village, you will arrive in the world-famous resort town of Queenstown!
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 star accommodation (3 nights in Queenstown)
Meals included
Breakfast
Activities
Scenic coach journey through Haast Pass with stops along the way
Haast River Safari
Explore Milford Sound
The 8th Wonder of the World
Charge your camera and prepare for one of the most awe-inspiring adventures of your journey. Today, you’ll travel to the majestic Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, often called the 8th Wonder of the World, aboard our exclusive Cruise Milford Coach service.
Relax in comfort as we wind through native rainforests, alpine meadows, and mirror-like reflective pools—complete with custom stops tailored to your group’s interests. On arrival, step aboard your boutique cruise and journey deep into the heart of the fjord. Feel the mist from Bowen and Stirling Falls, marvel at the vertical face of Mitre Peak, and take in the dramatic beauty carved by ancient glaciers.
For those looking to elevate the experience, there’s an optional scenic flight available for your return—soaring above the Southern Alps for a breathtaking aerial perspective of Fiordland.
After this unforgettable day, return to Queenstown for a relaxing evening at your own pace.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 star accommodation (3 nights in Queenstown)
Meals included
Breakfast, Lunch
Activities
Milford Sound day excursion
Explore Queenstown
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, hopping on the gondola for inspiring views, or sipping wine in Gibbston Valley, there is no shortage of activities to delight your senses.
Enjoy a ‘final hurrah’ this evening as we board the TSS Earnslaw Steamship cruise, dinner, and show. Reflect on your great adventure with your fellow travellers as you cruise to your dining experience at Walter Peak overlooking the beautiful Table Bay. Sit back and watch a true Kiwi experience as you learn about sheep shearing and dog herding in this beautiful setting. This evening will truly encapsulate your great journey as a truly New Zealand highlight.
Not ready to call it a night? Sip cocktails and indulge in Queenstown’s exciting nightlife alongside the sparkling Lake Wakatipu.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 star accommodation (3 nights in Queenstown)
Meals Included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Farewell dinner at Walter Peak Farm
TSS Earnslaw cruise & farm show
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 Included
Breakfast
Activities
Transfer to airport
Welcome to Queenstown
Kia ora and welcome to Queenstown – the adventure capital of New Zealand! Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and framed by the mighty Remarkables, Queenstown offers a stunning introduction to the South Island.
You’ll meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers in the mid-afternoon before heading across the lake aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship. At Walter Peak Station, enjoy a delicious gourmet BBQ dinner and soak in the serene lakeside views, a memorable way to begin your 17-day journey through Aotearoa.
Accommodation
4–5 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals included
Welcome Dinner
Activities
TSS Earnslaw Steamship ride
Walter Peak gourmet BBQ dinner
Milford Sound scenic journey
Today, venture into Fiordland National Park for a full-day tour to the world-renowned Milford Sound. Travel along one of the most scenic drives in the country, stopping at mirror lakes, alpine meadows and dramatic viewpoints.
Enjoy a scenic cruise through the sound, surrounded by towering peaks, cascading waterfalls and, if you're lucky, pods of dolphins. After a picnic lunch on board, return to Queenstown by coach or optional scenic flight (weather permitting).
Accommodation
4–5 star accommodation
Meals included
Breakfast, Lunch
Activities
Milford Sound scenic cruise
Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier
Depart Queenstown this morning and travel north along the wild West Coast. Enjoy a photo stop in Wānaka, then journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Haast Pass, where waterfalls tumble through ancient beech forests.
En route, experience the spectacular Haast River Safari, a jet boat adventure through a stunning UNESCO World Heritage wilderness.
Arrive in the glacier region of Franz Josef, a charming village nestled near the base of its mighty namesake glacier. This evening, enjoy a gourmet dinner at Te Waonui Forest Retreat, surrounded by native rainforest.
Accommodation
4–4.5 star accommodation (1 night in Franz Josef)
Meals included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Scenic Coach transfer with photo stops
Haast River Safari
Dinner at Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Glacial wonders and Punakaiki
Begin your day with a visit to the Franz Josef Glacier viewpoint, or choose an optional scenic helicopter flight (weather dependent) for a truly unforgettable perspective of the glacier and surrounding peaks.
Next, enjoy an exclusive VIP backstage tour at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, where you’ll learn about the conservation of New Zealand’s rarest kiwi – the rowi – and see this endangered species up close.
In the afternoon, travel north to the artistic town of Hokitika, famous for its greenstone (pounamu). The evening is yours to explore, with the option to visit the enchanting Hokitika Glowworm Dell after dark – a magical end to the day.
Accommodation
4–4.5 star accommodation (1 night in Hokitika)
Meals included
Breakfast
Activities
Franz Josef Glacier wiewpoint (or optional scenic flight)
West Coast Wildlife Centre VIP experience
Optional Hokitika Glowworm visit
West Coast to Christchurch via TranzAlpine train
Start your day with a scenic journey north to Hokitika, where you'll enjoy a Greenstone carving demonstration and guided walk through the stunning Hokitika Gorge – known for its vibrant turquoise waters.
Then, board the TranzAlpine Scenic Plus train in Greymouth. Enjoy a premium rail experience with locally inspired cuisine and full onboard service as you cross the Southern Alps via dramatic viaducts and Arthur’s Pass, arriving in Christchurch by evening.
Accommodation
4–5 star accommodation (1 night in Christchurch)
Meals included
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Activities
Hokitika Greenstone experience & gorge walk
TranzAlpine Scenic Plus journey
Explore Christchurch
Spend the day discovering Christchurch, a city of remarkable transformation. Your guided city tour will highlight the Botanic Gardens, Transitional Cardboard Cathedral and the creative urban rebuild projects.
Your Hop-On Hop-Off Tram ticket allows you to explore the city at your own pace. This evening, gather with your group for a special dinner at Earl, a celebrated local restaurant known for its seasonal cuisine and warm hospitality.
Accommodation
4–5 star accommodation (1 night in Christchurch)
Meals included
Breakfast, Dinner
Activities
Christchurch guided tour
Hop-On Hop-Off Tram Pass
Dinner at Earl
Farewell from Christchurch
Welcome to Christchurch
Kia ora!
Welcome to Christchurch, New Zealand’s Garden City. The largest city in the South Island, Christchurch is known for its historical earthquake in 2011 and how it rebuilt itself into a charming, multicultural city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican 'gothic revival' architectural influence.
After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your tour director, head out and explore all that Christchurch has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to wander through the enticing stalls at Riverside Market or explore the botanical gardens before heading to the art gallery, museums, and other city attractions.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals included
Dinner
The TranzAlpine scenic train
The moment has arrived to experience the world-famous TranzAlpine, indulging in the Scenic Plus service as you journey through the breathtaking Southern Alps and emerge onto the untamed West Coast.
On this unforgettable escape, marvel at dramatic alpine vistas, glide along the ice-fed Waimakariri River, and cross the Great Divide. As the landscape transforms before your eyes, you’ll also traverse the historic Ōtira Tunnel, an engineering triumph over a century old. Along the way, enjoy regionally inspired food and rich commentary that enhances your Scenic Plus experience.
Arriving in Greymouth, you’ll be met by a private coach and taken even further off the beaten track. Enjoy a custom Greenstone experience, a special insight into the cultural significance and artistry of pounamu (New Zealand jade). Then stretch your legs on a guided walk through the stunning Hokitika Gorge, where vivid turquoise waters wind through lush native bush.
You will also get to see glowworms in real life!
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 star accommodation (2 night)
Meals included
Breakfast, morning tea, lunch
Activities
TranzAlpine Scenic Plus
Custom Greenstone Experience & guided walk around Hokitika Gorge
Explore the West Coast
This morning, your West Coast journey continues with a VIP experience at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, a special, guided walkthrough designed exclusively for Great Journeys New Zealand guests. Go behind the scenes to learn about the conservation efforts for the rare Rowi kiwi and discover the secrets of this fascinating native species in a truly immersive encounter.
After your wildlife experience, enjoy free time in Franz Josef to explore at your own pace. Take a short scenic walk to the glacier viewpoint, browse the charming local shops, or choose from optional adventures such as a thrilling helicopter flight over the glacier or a serene wilderness tour through the rainforest.
This evening, rejoin your group for a culinary highlight: a four-course dinner at Te Waonui Forest Retreat, where locally sourced ingredients and refined flavours are served in a tranquil rainforest setting.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 star accommodation (1 night)
Meals included
Breakfast, dinner
Activities
Coach journey to Franz Josef
VIP West Coast Wildlife centre, guided walkthrough of Kiwi (exclusive to Great Journeys New Zealand)
4 course dinner at Te Waonui
Explore the Southern Lakes
Today you will explore the Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey of about five hours to Queenstown, will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. While aboard an exciting river boat and private coach, marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and majestic glaciers as your Tour Director guides you between local hidden gems. Stop in unique locations that only locals know about.
After an exciting plunge into the history of this gold rush village, you will arrive in the world-famous resort town of Queenstown. Enjoy a winery late lunch or dinner.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 star accommodation (2 nights in Queenstown)
Meals included
Breakfast
Late lunch or dinner
Activities
Scenic coach journey through Haast Pass with stops along the way
Haast River Safari
Explore Milford Sound
Charge your camera and prepare for one of the most awe-inspiring adventures of your journey. Today, you’ll travel to the majestic Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, often called the 8th Wonder of the World, aboard our exclusive Cruise Milford Coach service.
Relax in comfort as we wind through native rainforests, alpine meadows, and mirror-like reflective pools, complete with custom stops tailored to your group’s interests. On arrival, step aboard your boutique cruise and journey deep into the heart of the fjord. Feel the mist from Bowen and Stirling Falls, marvel at the vertical face of Mitre Peak, and take in the dramatic beauty carved by ancient glaciers.
For those looking to elevate the experience, there’s an optional scenic flight available for your return, soaring above the Southern Alps for a breathtaking aerial perspective of Fiordland.
After this unforgettable day, return to Queenstown for a relaxing evening at your own pace.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 star accommodation (2 nights in Queenstown)
Meals included
Breakfast, lunch
Activities
Milford Sound day excursion
Depart Queenstown
This morning, say farewell to your fellow travellers over a final breakfast as you reminisce about the journey you’ve shared.
Queenstown truly has something for everyone, so why not extend your stay and continue exploring? Whether it’s taking in inspiring views from the gondola, heading out to Walter Peak for an adventure, or sipping wine in Gibbston Valley, there’s no shortage of ways to make the most of your time here.
Or if you're ready to say goodbye to Queenstown, airport transfers are provided.
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 star accommodation (2 nights in Queenstown)
Meals included
Breakfast
Transfers included
Included activities
Our Signature Inspirational Alps tour between Christchurch and Queenstown includes New Zealand's must-do activities:
Available dates
Tour Code: SCQ
Our Signature Inspirational Alps Tour departs on the following dates. To book your spot, either call us on +64 3 341 2698 or click the 'book now' button and complete the enquiry form. You can choose to pay a 20% deposit and then pay the balance 66 days before departure.
Start Christchurch
14 MAR 2026
days
7
Finish Queenstown
20 MAR 2026
NZ$
6399
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
21 MAR 2026
days
7
Finish Queenstown
27 MAR 2026
NZ$
6399
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
28 MAR 2026
days
7
Finish Queenstown
3 APR 2026
NZ$
6399
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
4 APR 2026
days
7
Finish Queenstown
10 APR 2026
NZ$
6399
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
11 APR 2026
days
7
Finish Queenstown
17 APR 2026
NZ$
6399
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
18 APR 2026
days
7
Finish Queenstown
24 APR 2026
NZ$
6399
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
25 APR 2026
days
7
Finish Queenstown
1 MAY 2026
NZ$
6399
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
11 OCT 2026
6
days
Finish Queenstown
16 OCT 2026
NZ$
6499
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
18 OCT 2026
6
days
Finish Queenstown
23 OCT 2026
NZ$
6499
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
8 NOV 2026
6
days
Finish Queenstown
13 NOV 2026
NZ$
6499
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
22 NOV 2026
6
days
Finish Queenstown
27 NOV 2026
NZ$
6499
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
29 NOV 2026
6
days
Finish Queenstown
4 DEC 2026
NZ$
6499
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
13 DEC 2026
6
days
Finish Queenstown
18 DEC 2026
NZ$
6499
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
20 DEC 2026
6
days
Finish Queenstown
25 DEC 2026
NZ$
6499
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
10 JAN 2027
6
days
Finish Queenstown
15 JAN 2027
NZ$
6499
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
24 JAN 2027
6
days
Finish Queenstown
29 JAN 2027
NZ$
6499
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
31 JAN 2027
6
days
Finish Queenstown
5 FEB 2027
NZ$
6499
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
21 FEB 2027
6
days
Finish Queenstown
26 FEB 2027
NZ$
6499
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
7 MAR 2027
6
days
Finish Queenstown
12 MAR 2027
Start Christchurch
14 MAR 2027
6
days
Finish Queenstown
19 MAR 2027
NZ$
6499
per person
twin/share
Start Christchurch
18 APR 2027
6
days
Finish Queenstown
23 APR 2027
NZ$
6499
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
Last chance to grab this special offer! Confirmation is on request, subject to availability
Northbound Tour: This tour travels from South to North
Winter Tour: This tour travels in the South Island through the winter season
Important Information
Tales from the tours
Get the inside story by travelling with us from Auckland to Queenstown aboard one of our New Zealand rail tours in our “Tales from the tours” blog series!
FAQs
The Signature Inspirational Alps tour is a premium 6 or 7 day guided South Island journey from Christchurch to Queenstown, combining the world-famous TranzAlpine scenic train with curated regional experiences and elevated accommodation.
-
TranzAlpine scenic rail journey
-
Punakaiki Pancake Rocks & Blowholes Walk
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West Coast rainforest experiences
-
Guided South Island touring
-
Queenstown alpine scenery
-
Expert tour director throughout the journey
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Premium small group (max 20 guests)
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Iconic TranzAlpine rail journey
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Elevated accommodation
-
Seamless guided South Island exploration
-
Balanced included highlights and free time
This premium guided South Island experience runs for 6 or 7 days, travelling from Christchurch to Queenstown through some of New Zealand’s most spectacular alpine and coastal landscapes.
The tour includes the iconic TranzAlpine scenic train, widely regarded as one of the world’s great rail journeys, crossing the Southern Alps between Christchurch and Greymouth.
Some of the included highlights:
You can also add optional activities when booking to personalise your experience.
The tour starts in Christchurch and finishes in Queenstown. Selected reverse departures (Queenstown to Christchurch) may also be available.
It’s ideal for travellers aged 16 years and over (under 18 must be accompanied by an adult) who want a premium, small-group guided South Island rail holiday without the stress of self-driving.
The tour includes daily breakfast, selected premium dining experiences and 6 nights in 4–4.5 star accommodation on a twin share basis.
Departures operate seasonally from September through April (dates vary by season).
Yes, there is scheduled free time during the itinerary so you can choose optional excursions and tailor parts of your journey.
Any questions?
Whether it's pricing, availability, future dates, tour options or extended itineraries, our super-friendly and knowledgeable New Zealand travel specialists are here to help.
Our Travel Centre are on hand to answer your questions and help you build your perfect New Zealand holiday.
Give us a call or contact us online; we can't wait to hear from you.