9 Day South Island Unleashed Northbound (Christchurch to Wellington)

Itinerary: day by day

Day 1 – Christchurch to Fox Glacier

Welcome to New Zealand! We kick things off with a morning spent exploring the city of Christchurch before jumping on our luxurious air conditioned coach and heading out to the stunning Fox Glacier. (D)

Day 2 – Fox Glacier to Queenstown

Wake up in Westland National Park, home to towering peaks and shimmering Fox Glacier. Later, we journey onto Queenstown and pass Lakes Hawea and Wanaka on the way. We travel through Haast Pass and our next point of interest is Thunder Creek Falls, an amazing waterfall set among lush rainforest. (BD)

Day 3 – Queenstown

For adrenalin junkies and leisure seekers, Queenstown – the undisputed adventure capital of New Zealand has it all! With so many activities on offer, you’re bound to find something fun to do – bungy jumping, the Shotover Jet, boat safari or horseback riding. All activities are optional and at your own expense. (B)

Day 4 – Queenstown to Fiordland Experience

It’s onwards passed Lake Wakatipu for tonight we’re taking to the Fiord with an exclusive overnight cruise on Milford Sound, surely one of New Zealand’s most picturesque areas. Keep an eye out for fur seals, bottlenose dolphins and even penguins. Between September and May we spend the night out on the water. (BD)

Day 5 – Fiordland Experience to Lake Ohau

Back on dry land, we travel over Lindis Pass and visit the town of Te Anau where we enjoy some remarkable views over the largest lake in New Zealand. (BD)

Day 6 – Lake Ohau to Hanmer Springs

We travel into Christchurch to pick up some new travellers. We’ll stop for lunch at a sheep station and learn about life on the farm. Mixing thrilling adventure with a relaxed atmosphere, Hanmer Springs offers thermal pools, mountain biking or even just stroll around town. (BLD)

Day 7 – Hanmer Springs to Nelson via Kaikoura

Spot fur seals at Ohau Point before reaching Kaikoura — a small town situated between the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges and waters of the Pacific Ocean. Why not make the most of your afternoon with some whale watching or dolphin swimming (optional and own expense). (B)

Day 8 – Nelson

Make sure you have your camera ready for Abel Tasman National Park! Here you can journey into a world where native bush meets golden sands, hidden bays and crystal blue waters. Stroll the many walking tracks, or maybe take to the water by boat or ocean kayak. (BD)

Day 9 – Nelson to Wellington

Say goodbye to the South Island as we hop on a ferry and cross the Cook Strait catching the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds from the viewing decks. Our trip ends in Wellington. (B)