9 Day South Island Unleashed Southbound (Wellington to Christchurch)

Itinerary: day by day

Day 1 – Wellington to Nelson

We depart Wellington and travel across to the remarkable South Island, with its stunning national parks and incredible mountain ranges. We travel by ferry across the Cook Strait where the blue waters of Marlborough Sounds are waiting for us. Hop off at Picton and discover why Marlborough has become famous right across the world — enjoy some delicious wine tasting with lunch. We then head west across the mountains to Nelson, the South Island’s second largest city, renowned for its local art community. (B)

Day 2 – Nelson

You have the day free to explore your incredible surroundings. The nearby Abel Tasman National Park is one place not be missed. Here you can journey into a world where native bush meets golden sands, hidden bays and crystal blue waters. You can even explore the park by boat or paddle along the beautiful shoreline in an ocean kayak. There is also the options to try horse riding, quad biking or even an unforgettable tandem skydive. All activities are optional and at own expense. Tonight we regroup for a traditional Kiwi BBQ dinner, prepared for you by your guide. (BD)

Day 3 – Nelson to Christchurch via Kaikoura

Head back through the Rai Valley and the Marlborough Wine Region before stopping in Blenheim to stretch your legs. We continue to travel down the coast and try to spot some New Zealand fur seals at Ohau Point before arriving at Kaikoura — a small town situated between the Seaward Kaikoura Ranges and waters of the Pacific Ocean. Take a walk along the pebbled shore and enjoy one of the best seafood lunches you’ll ever eat (own expense). In summer, you have the option to get closer to some of New Zealand’s marine life on a whale watching and dolphin adventure (own expense). In winter, you’ll just have to settle for a glass of vino at one of Kaikoura’s  best wineries. Overnight in Christchurch. (B)

Day 4 – Christchurch to Fox Glacier

Cross the Canterbury Plains into the Southern Alps and stop for a break at Arthur’s Pass before continuing to Otira Gorge where the waterfalls cascade overhead. As we approach the wild coast, we stop off at the town of Hokitika for some lunch before making our way to a Jade factory to watch carvers create artworks from Pounamu greenstone. Overnight at Fox Glacier. (BD)

Day 5 – Fox Glacier to Queenstown

Explore the Westland National Park today, home to high mountain peaks, stunning glaciers and the chance to walk on a flowing river of ice. For those wishing to take a closer look at Fox Glacier, a half day guided walk is available or you can travel higher up the glacier on a heli-hike (own expense). Later, we take a short stop at Thunder Creek Falls, before stopping for a break at Makarora. Journey by Wanaka and Hawea Lakes before arriving at our destination, Queenstown — adrenalin capital of New Zealand. (B)

Day 6 – Queenstown

For adventure junkies and leisure seekers, Queenstown has it all! Here you can try a bungy jump, skim passed canyon walls on the Shotover Jet, safari through the breathtaking Dart River, go horse riding, mountain biking, white water rafting or hike your way to the top of Ben Lomond for incredible 360 degree views of the area. If you’re looking for a little relaxation, you can chill out in the local restaurants and bars instead. All activities are optional and at own expense. You can also go to picturesque Arrowhead with your guide and try panning for gold in the Arrow River. Later in the day, we head out to the longest and steepest luge track in New Zealand, where you can perfect your riding style before heading out for some dinner at the famous Winnies Bar. (BD)

Day 7 – Fiordland Experience

After a relaxing morning, we leave Queenstown and head to the Fiords. Our first stop is the township of Te Anau, located on the shores of some of New Zealand’s largest glacial carved lakes. Stop and admire the reflections in the waters of Mirror Lake and the views of Hollywood Valley before we travel through the Homer Tunnel and arrive at the departure point for our afternoon cruise to Milford Sound. We head out to the sound, so keep your eyes peeled for bottlenose dolphins and fur seals — you may even spot the occasional penguin! After visiting Milford Sound, enjoy tucking into a delicious dinner at the Fiordland lodge. (BD)

Day 8 – Fiordland to Lake Ohau

This morning you’ll find yourself in the middle of Lord of the Rings territory as we make our way along the Kawarau River, before continuing through Cromwell district and stopping to stretch our legs and sample some of the famous fruits of the region. You’ll be able to observe a huge difference in scenery as we travel over Lindis Pass and arrive at our home for the night on the shores of Lake Ohau. Tonight you’ll stay in a lakeside lodge retreat and there is plenty of time to relax with a quiet drink on the deck before dinner. Marvel at magnificent Mt Cook as the sun goes down on a another perfect New Zealand day. (BD)

Day 9 – Lake Ohau to Christchurch via Mt Cook Village

Wake up to some incredible views! This morning start the journey back to Christchurch with the Southern Alps providing the backdrop. Stop along the way at Mt Cook village and take a short walk through the national park (weather permitting). Our next stop is Lake Pukaki, where you can grab some amazing photographs of the lake’s incredibly clear waters surrounding Mt Cook. Stop for lunch before continuing on to the Church of the Good Sheppard and a kiwi farm experience at Fairlie, where you’ll learn about life on a sheep station and watch the sheep dogs in action. We cross the Canterbury Plans and arrive in Christchurch where our 9 day adventure comes to an end. (B)