Southern Alps Explorer Tour

This 9 day tour starts in Christchurch and finishes in Christchurch.

Explore the urban metropolis of Christchurch, known for its heritage, central botanic gardens and river which winds its way through the city. Departing Christchurch, make your way to Aoraki Mt Cook. Aoraki is the Maori name for New Zealand's highest peak and means "Cloud Piercer". Spend the night under the Dark Sky Reserve before your next adventure in Queenstown, famed for its stunning landscapes, outdoor activities and being nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Take the Crown Range through the historic Cardrona Valley to arrive in the relaxed lakeside town of Wanaka. Capture the Wanaka Tree and meander the boutique stores before continuing your trek to Franz Josef on the West Coast. Witness the beauty of Franz Glacier in a temperant rainforest before catching one of New Zealand's most scenic train journeys. Travse the West Coast from Greymouth and across to the Christchurch on the East Coast. Pass through the Southern Alps, Arthur's Pass National Park and the Cantebury Plains.

Accommodation type on this tour is: Boutique Lodges & Hotels.

Rental car insurance included

Rental car inclusions: Unlimited kilometres,airport/ferry terminal fees, additional drivers.

Tour pack: Includes detailed driving instructions, maps, guide books and much more.

This tour can be customised to suit you precisely - just request here.

This tour also features:

Included activity: Private transfer Christchurch International Airport to your accommodation

Included activity: Electronic Travel Guide and In-Country Support App

Included activity: TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch

Included activity: Private Transfer Christchurch Train Station to your accommodation

Included activity: Private transfer accommodation to Christchurch Airport

Meals included: 8 breakfasts

Itinerary summary for: Southern Alps Explorer Tour

Day 1: Arrive into Christchurch City
Accommodation: Orari Apartments

Day 2: Today is yours! View the city from above on a hot air balloon or go punting on the Avon
Accommodation: Orari Apartments

Day 3: Drive from Christchurch to Mt Cook through the stunning MacKenzie Country
Accommodation: Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki Wing Premium

Day 4: Follow the dry lands to Lindis Pass which leads into Central Otago, then through the Kawerau Gorge to Queenstown
Accommodation: The Dairy Private Hotel by Naumi

Day 5: Explore Queenstown or try one of the many adrenalin activities on offer
Accommodation: The Dairy Private Hotel by Naumi

Day 6: Today you will make your way to Wanaka before travelling the spectacular Haast Pass to the West Coast
Accommodation: Westwood Lodge

Day 7: Discover the glacier region, we suggest a helicopter flight for the best views
Accommodation: Westwood Lodge

Day 8: Farewell the West Coast and travel New Zealand by train on the TranzAlpine
Accommodation: Orari Apartments

Day 9: Farewell the 'Garden' city