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The Southern Alps
New Zealand
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Incredible New Zealand: Essential Escorted Tour

13 days

Trip Overview

Your 13-day New Zealand adventure begins on the South Island in Christchurch. From here, you will travel to Lake Tekapo, driving along the shoreline of the azure Lake Pukaki and stopping at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park for an incredible view from New Zealand’s highest peak. The Church of the Good Shepherd, built in 1935, is where you will finish your day and is the perfect place to embrace the peace and tranquility of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding snow-capped mountains. Continue south through Oamaru, past the unusually large and smooth Moeraki Boulders at Koekohe Beach, until you reach the harbour city of Dunedin, set in and around a volcanic crater formed between 16 and 10 million years ago.

Your journey presses on to Lake Te Anau, where you will spend a night before your expedition through Fiordland National Park. You will eventually reach Milford Sound and embark on a cruise along the full-length of the fjord, through the towering mountain ranges, cliffs, and waterfalls before heading to Queenstown for two nights. You will have two days to enjoy Queenstown at leisure, including a buffet lunch 450 m above the city at Bob’s Peak via the Skyline Gondola. Your final two and half days on the South Island will take you across Haast Pass to the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers before returning to Christchurch on the world-renowned TranzAlpine rail journey.

Your North Island adventure begins with a scenic voyage on the Interislander ferry from Picton to Wellington. Continue north to New Zealand’s largest lake, Lake Taupo, and take in the roaring Huka Falls. You will then have two nights in Rotorua to fully embrace New Zealand’s Māori culture and explore the town’s geothermal geysers, mud pools, and boiling lakes before travelling to the village of Waitomo. Explore the glow worm skies, crystal tapestries, and limestone formations found in the Waitomo Caves before journeying to Auckland, where you will enjoy a farewell dinner to conclude your New Zealand adventure.

 

Travel Itinerary
Trip Starts
Trip Stop
Trip Ends

Itinerary Details

Incredible New Zealand

Multi Day Tour

Arrive Christchurch

Your spectacular New Zealand journey begins today upon arrival in Christchurch. Here, you will be met and transferred to your premium hotel. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Dinner.

Meal

Dinner

property

Quality Hotel Elms

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Quality Hotel Elms at 456 Papanui Road is ideally situated on the Northwest corner of the city offering easy access for out of town guest's proximity to the airport for North Island and International guests, without the hassle of entering the central city. The Quality Hotel Elms offer a variety of facilities and services, like our brand new Fiber optic super-fast internet that we now offer to all guests on a complimentary basis. Conferencing facilities for up to 200 delegates, and our new wedding venue has been constructed with the latest design specifications to ensure you and your guests are catered for in a beautiful setting.

Quality Hotel Elms
Multi Day Tour

Aoraki/Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo, Church Of The Good Shepherd

Enjoy a day of spectacular South Island scenery as you depart Christchurch this morning, following the shoreline of the powder blue Lake Pukaki. Arrive at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and view New Zealand's highest peak during your insider experience. Later, head to Lake Tekapo and visit the Church of the Good Shepherd.

Insider Experience
View the spectacular peak of Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

property

Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo

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Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo is located overlooking the breathtaking Lake Tekapo between Christchurch and Queenstown on New Zealand's South Island. The hotel has spectacular views across Lake Tekapo, the focal point of the Mackenzie Basin. This is the perfect base for exploring the region including Mt Cook National Park. There are 60 stylish lakeside rooms offered in a range of accommodation options including one, two and three bedroom luxury villas and apartments. Rakinui Restaurant and Lounge is a place to eat, drink and relax amongst warm friendly surroundings.

Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo
Multi Day Tour

Oamaru, Moeraki Boulders, Dunedin

Travel through Oamaru to Moeraki Boulders, unusually large spherical boulders stretched across Koekohe Beach. You will then continue south to Dunedin, enjoying views of majestic mountains and the sweeping stillness resting on farmlands and fields along the way.

Meal

Breakfast

property

Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

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This stylish hotel has a fresh contemporary design, with clean lines and dramatic features softened by natural elements such as timber and neutral tones. At once energetic, yet restful, Scenic Hotel Dunedin City is well in tune with the beat of this vibrant city. Located in the heart of the city and just blocks from the Octagon, Scenic Hotel Dunedin City is within walking distance of many of the city's main attractions, great restaurants and shopping centres. So whether you are visiting Dunedin for business or pleasure look no further than the exquisite Scenic Hotel Dunedin City for your accommodation choice! Throughout the hotel, attention is paid to style, quality, convenience and service. This has earned Scenic Hotel Dunedin City an impressive 4 star plus Qualmark rating, as well as the Enviro-Silver rating in recognition of our environmental awareness. We look forward to making your stay memorable!

Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
Multi Day Tour

Dunedin, Te Anau

Enjoy a guided tour of Dunedin, the quirky and historic harbour city set in and around what was once a volcanic crater. One of New Zealand's first three cities, Dunedin is renowned for its rich and interesting architecture, warm and friendly locals, and unique wildlife. It's also home to the world's steepest street. Later, head to the picturesque little town of Te Anau on the shore of the beautiful lake of the same name.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

property

Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau

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Set amidst beautiful nature, Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau overlooks majestic mountains and lakes and lets you discover the region’s breath-taking natural wonders. From our hotel, you can explore the cliffs and waterfalls, cruise deep within the Fiordland into Milford Sound, traverse across the mysterious Manapouri Lake, or get lost in the magical Glow Worm Caves. Featuring 94 modern guest rooms, with double beds and adjoining rooms for families, a stay at our hotel in Te Anau lets you discover the pristine beauty of this New Zealand region and so much more

Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau
Multi Day Tour

Te Anau, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, Queenstown

Travel deep into the incredible Fiordland National Park for a visit to what Rudyard Kipling famously described as the 'eighth wonder of the world,' Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Enjoy an unforgettable Insider Experience on a cruise along the full length of the World Heritage-listed fiord beneath hulking mountains, stunning waterfalls and pristine beauty at every angle. Later, travel to New Zealand's adventure capital, the irrepressibly beautiful Queenstown on Lake Wakatipu. Enjoy an evening at leisure to explore the town at your own pace.

INSIDER EXPERIENCE
Cruise the full length of magnificent Milford Sound/Piopiotahi.

INSIDER EXPERIENCE
Settle in for a relaxing two-night stay overlooking beautiful Lake Wakatipu.

Meal

Breakfast

property

Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

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A sophisticated escape inspired by its surrounding nature. Located in the heart of Queenstown, the hotel is surrounded by picturesque mountains and Lake Wakatipu. Just a stroll away, you’ll find the town centre. Shop in charming boutiques, dine at classic bistros, or even find an adventure. Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview is a 4-star Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel, with an Environmental Sustainability Plan for the future. The hotel has 66 superior rooms and 19 two-bedroom serviced apartments. Spacious and outfitted with modern amenities, every room features large private balconies or a private courtyard to enjoy refreshing views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range - all from the comfort of your room.

Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview
Multi Day Tour

Queenstown

INSIDER EXPERIENCE
Ride the Skyline Gondola 450 metres above the city to the top of Bob's Peak.

Soar to the top of a Queenstown peak and check out the view as all of Queenstown spreads below you. Following this, enjoy lunch at one of the FergFoods restaurants located throughout the city centre (Fergburger, FergsBar, Mrs. Ferg & FergBaker). Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You'll find plenty to see and do in and around Queenstown, not least sitting back somewhere comfortable and enjoying the magnificent views.

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch

property

Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

View On Map

A sophisticated escape inspired by its surrounding nature. Located in the heart of Queenstown, the hotel is surrounded by picturesque mountains and Lake Wakatipu. Just a stroll away, you’ll find the town centre. Shop in charming boutiques, dine at classic bistros, or even find an adventure. Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview is a 4-star Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel, with an Environmental Sustainability Plan for the future. The hotel has 66 superior rooms and 19 two-bedroom serviced apartments. Spacious and outfitted with modern amenities, every room features large private balconies or a private courtyard to enjoy refreshing views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range - all from the comfort of your room.

Copthorne Hotel and Apartments Queenstown Lakeview
Multi Day Tour

Queenstown, Fox Glacier

The stunning drive across Haast Pass brings you to the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers in the Southern Alps. Both Fox and Franz Josef glaciers go well below the snowline and into temperate rainforest.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

property

Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier

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The historic Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier originally opened in 1928 and has provided a comfortable bed for the night for more than its fair share of climbers and adventurers from all corners of the world. Restored in 2007, the hotel proudly continues its tradition with modern comforts. With the mighty Southern Alps as its backdrop, the hotel offers fantastic rural and mountain views. The hotel has 67 guest rooms and suites. Standard rooms and suites are equipped with; free Wi-Fi, refrigerators, hairdryers and tea and coffee making facilities.

Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
Multi Day Tour

Fox Glacier, TranzAlpine Train, Christchurch

INSIDER EXPERIENCE
Embark on one of the world's great rail journeys aboard the TranzAlpine train. Watch the South Island's snow-capped mountains and rolling green hills glide past from the comfort of your seat.

Drive through the sublime Southern Alps passing spectacular lakes and rainforests to the TranzAlpine Train for your Insider Experience before heading to Christchurch.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

property

Quality Hotel Elms

View On Map

Quality Hotel Elms at 456 Papanui Road is ideally situated on the Northwest corner of the city offering easy access for out of town guest's proximity to the airport for North Island and International guests, without the hassle of entering the central city. The Quality Hotel Elms offer a variety of facilities and services, like our brand new Fiber optic super-fast internet that we now offer to all guests on a complimentary basis. Conferencing facilities for up to 200 delegates, and our new wedding venue has been constructed with the latest design specifications to ensure you and your guests are catered for in a beautiful setting.

Quality Hotel Elms
Multi Day Tour

Christchurch, Interislander, Wellington

INSIDER EXPERIENCE
Enjoy one of the world's most scenic voyages on the Interislander ferry en route to Wellington.

Journey north from Christchurch to the port town of Picton where your ferry awaits. Sail through the stunning waters of Queen Charlotte Sound and Tory Channel before crossing Cook Strait to New Zealand's, Wellington, where your North Island adventure begins.

Meal

Breakfast

property

Travelodge Wellington

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Travelodge Hotel Wellington is situated in the town center of the infamous “windy city”, just a short stroll to funky cafes, incredible shopping, and the beautiful Wellington harbor. A visit to Wellington is not complete without a journey on the iconic, bright red Wellington Cable Car or a trip to the Te Papa Tongarewa (the Museum of New Zealand) – both within easy reach of the hotel. Travelodge Wellington offers 132 spacious rooms, equipped with important comforts like cozy beds, microwaves, cable TV, and free WiFi. The perfect way to start your day is by enjoying a coffee and pastry from the hotel breakfast room with stunning sweeping city views. Steps Restaurant and Bar is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a hearty meal, or room service is available daily from 5 pm to 10 pm for those exhausted after an exciting day of exploring the city. Squeeze a workout at the hotel gym into your itinerary, or if you would like other suggestions for local activities visit the hotel’s 24-hour reception for assistance.

Travelodge Wellington
Multi Day Tour

Wellington, Taupo, Rotorua

Continue north to Taupo, a town on the northern shore of New Zealand's largest lake, Lake Taupo, known for its world-class restaurants and resorts. Later, witness the thundering power of Huka Falls, New Zealand's most visited attraction, before travelling to Rotorua.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

property

Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua

View On Map

If you’re visiting New Zealand, Rotorua is simply unmissable. Located at the heart of the North Island it’s an adventure capital, a geothermal hot-spot, and a cultural hub. With its unique natural environment, you’ll never run out of things to do. Whether you crave adrenalin-fuelled fun, sightseeing, and natural wonders, or a bit of pampering and relaxation, Rotorua combines it all in one bubbling, boiling, the beauty of a city. As well as smelling a bit funny, Rotorua is famous for its stunning geothermal parks. Wai-O-Tapu is nothing short of spectacular. Te Puia never fails to impress. And if you love bubbling mud, Hell's Gate is heaven on earth. For pure beauty, there’s Hamurana Springs and Lake Tarawera are beyond compare. In all, there are over 18 lakes in the region you can walk around or explore by boat. Swim at sandy beaches, enjoy the tranquillity of stunning waterfalls, soak in a hot stream… somehow you always feel you’ve discovered your very own secret spot.

Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
Multi Day Tour

Rotorua, Agrodome

INSIDER EXPERIENCE
Savour an authentic Maori Hangi feast in Rotorua. The delicious, locally sourced buffet will feature a Maori twist in each dish, followed by an exhilarating cultural performance, and finish the evening with a hot chocolate overlooking the mesmerising display of Pohutu Geyser.

Rotorua captures the essence of New Zealand with its geothermal geysers, fascinating Maori culture and rich heritage. Your sightseeing continues with a visit to the Agrodome or perhaps enjoy a visit to the Hobbiton movie set from the Lord of the Rings series (own expense).

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

property

Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua

View On Map

If you’re visiting New Zealand, Rotorua is simply unmissable. Located at the heart of the North Island it’s an adventure capital, a geothermal hot-spot, and a cultural hub. With its unique natural environment, you’ll never run out of things to do. Whether you crave adrenalin-fuelled fun, sightseeing, and natural wonders, or a bit of pampering and relaxation, Rotorua combines it all in one bubbling, boiling, the beauty of a city. As well as smelling a bit funny, Rotorua is famous for its stunning geothermal parks. Wai-O-Tapu is nothing short of spectacular. Te Puia never fails to impress. And if you love bubbling mud, Hell's Gate is heaven on earth. For pure beauty, there’s Hamurana Springs and Lake Tarawera are beyond compare. In all, there are over 18 lakes in the region you can walk around or explore by boat. Swim at sandy beaches, enjoy the tranquillity of stunning waterfalls, soak in a hot stream… somehow you always feel you’ve discovered your very own secret spot.

Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
Multi Day Tour

Rotorua, Waitomo, Auckland

INSIDER EXPERIENCE
Discover the famous Waitomo glow worm caves.

Travel to Waitomo to explore the glow worm caves, then continue to cosmopolitan Auckland, New Zealand's largest city. This evening, enjoy a special Farewell Dinner with your fellow travellers.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner

property

Sudima Auckland City

View On Map

Sudima Auckland City is a 4.5-star hotel in the heart of the city. It's conveniently located within easy walking distance of Auckland's bustling shopping, arts, dining and entertainment precincts and opposite the New Zealand International Convention Centre. So whether you're in town for leisure or business, Sudima Auckland City is perfect. For sight-seers and holiday makers Sudima Auckland City's central location makes it a perfect base for exploring Auckland city and beyond. Whatever your plans, our friendly team can help. All guests 12 years and over are required to be fully vaccinated and validated by the COVID-19 vaccination pass in order to enter the premises, its venues and outlets. This policy will continue to be reviewed in line with the changing government restrictions.

Sudima Auckland City
Multi Day Tour

Depart Auckland

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport where your journey comes to an end.

Meal

Breakfast


Wellington Cable Car

Departures

2024: December 15, 29
2025: January 19; February 16; March 16; April 20; May 11; June 8; September 21;
October 5; November 16, 30; December 14, 28

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Incredible New Zealand: Essential Escorted Tour

13 days -
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