10 Day The Alps Circle ‘Premium’ Tour 

Upon arrival you will be picked up for your private transfer from Queenstown Airport to your accommodation with time to get a feel for this extraordinary city.

QUEENSTOWN/TAHUNA – is the South Island’s most popular resort, set alongside the shores of Lake Wakatipu, under the gaze of the Remarkables Ranges. See the contrast of smooth glacier rounded hills, and jagged mountain summits that reach high above the ancient ice floor. The town is renowned for its jet boating, bungy-jumping, skiing and awe-inspiring scenery. Local story has it, that the gold prospectors of the 19th century pronounced the town as “fit for any Queen”, and so she was called Queenstown.

There is so much to do in and around Queenstown that you are spoilt for choice today. Choose from one of our suggested optional tours, take it easy and enjoy the town or talk to your consultant about the myriads of fun on offer in this extraordinary destination.

Today you’ll pick up your Intermediate SUV Rental Car and head off on what is an incredibly scenic journey that links the adventure hub with the West Coast glaciers. You’ll travel over the Haast Pass, a route with lush rainforest and past towering mountains. The scenery transforms dramatically as you travel up the West Coast, with lush native bush and dramatic coastal views before you arrive at the glaciers.

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER/WAIAU – originally named Victoria, after Queen Victoria of England, geologist Julius Von Haast, renamed it, Franz Josef, after the current Emperor of his homeland, Austria. The Glacier is pale blue/green ice that has retreated and advanced many times over the years. A walk from the carpark to the Glacier terminal will give you some impressive views and an idea of the immense size of the Glacier itself. The township of Franz Josef is a small town based around the tourist and supply trade.

Today you’ll drive from Franz Josef to Greymouth to drop your car off and begin an epic train journey aboard the TranzAlpine. Experience one of the world’s most scenic train rides, traveling through the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island. The journey takes you through the mountains of Arthur’s Pass to the farmlands of the Canterbury Plains through river gorges, offering incredible views from the open-air viewing carriage.

All aboard for the countries best train ride with The Great Journeys of New Zealand – TranzAlpine: Greymouth to Christchurch. Travel on the world famous TranzAlpine Train from Greymouth to Christchurch, enjoying the incredible scenery along the way. The journey will take you coast-to-coast through the ‘Great Divide’ and the indomitable spine of mountains that partitions New Zealand’s South Island. From your carriage you’ll see the lush green valleys of the West Coast, the spectacular Southern Alps, beautiful gorges and river valleys and the fields of the Canterbury Plains. Your train journey is 223.8 kilometres long with 16 tunnels and 5 viaducts, the highest being the Staircase standing at 73 metres. An open-air viewing carriage allows you to get even closer to the stunning scenery and provides many opportunities to photograph your favourite spots. With the Scenic Plus experience, savour regionally inspired cuisine paired with wine and beer from the comfort of your luxurious seat as you soak in the spectacular scenery – a hosted dining experience like no other.

You will be met by Hallmark Limousines at the Christchurch Train Station for your private transfer to your Christchurch city hotel.

CHRISTCHURCH/OTAUTAHI – Located on a level plain, Christchurch is defined by its historic past and vibrant future. The willow and oak-lined River Avon meanders through its heart, where you can enjoy a punt ride or explore the sprawling Botanic Gardens. Much of the city’s unique charm comes from its blend of old and new; elegant stone buildings sit alongside striking contemporary architecture. Following a series of earthquakes, the city has been thoughtfully and creatively rebuilt, resulting in innovative new spaces like the Transitional Cathedral and Margaret Mahy Playground. This spirit of renewal makes Christchurch an exciting hub for arts, culture, and dining, while its proximity to both the stunning Canterbury Plains and the volcanic Port Hills offers easy access to outdoor adventures.

Today you will pick up your next Intermediate SUV Rental Car rental car and prepare your camera for this spectacular trip that takes you inland from Christchurch.  You’ll leave the Canterbury Plains behind and head inland. The landscape changes dramatically as you get closer to the Southern Alps, and suddenly you’ll see the brilliant, milky-blue waters of Lake Tekapo. It’s a photographer’s dream, especially with the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd on its shores.

LAKE TEKAPO/TAKAPŌ – located in the Mackenzie country, with fantastic views of the surrounding Alps. The Lake’s unusual turquoise colour is given by fine rock-flour, which is dust ground by glacial movement and held in suspension by the Lake’s waters. The Lake is also well known for its brown and rainbow trout.

Tonight, you can choose the optional Alpha Crux Private Stargazing Tour from Lake Tekapo, where an expert guide will take you to a secluded spot for telescope stargazing and personalized insights into the night sky.

Today your journey offers a spectacular transition from the high-country heartland to the sea. Departing from Lake Tekapo, a town renowned for its stunning turquoise lake and world-class stargazing, the route travels east and south through the vast, golden tussock plains of the Mackenzie Basin. You’ll pass by serene farmlands and high-country stations before the landscape gradually changes as you approach the coast. The journey culminates as you arrive in Oamaru, a town famous for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture, unique Steampunk culture, and resident blue penguin colony.

Tonight, get up close with Oamaru Penguins only 2-3 metres from where they arrive and cross into the colony. You have individual seating which makes the experience more comfortable. You will also get to listen to an informative commentary that is given by one of our staff members. When you make your way out to the grandstand you will enter into the breeding colony on a boardwalk and walk amongst their nesting burrows.

OAMARU/TE OHA-A-MARU – is on the coast of Rural North Otago in the South Island of New Zealand. The Town is famous for its superb Limestone buildings, Coastal wildlife and Coastal walks. The Art Gallery, Museum, Historical Precinct (with its fully renovated Victorian Hotel, The Criterion) and the Magnificent Catholic Cathedral are also worth visiting. Go fishing in the Waitaki River or the nearby Waitaki Valley Lakes, experience the thrill of Jet boating. Boating, sailing and water skiing are all available recreations. Snow Skiing in the winter season is within easy reach of Oamaru.

Your journey follows the beautiful Pacific coastline, departing from Oamaru’s historic Victorian Precinct. The route heads south, offering picturesque views of the ocean and rolling farmlands. A highlight is the option to stop and see the unique Moeraki Boulders along the beach. The drive concludes as you arrive in Dunedin, a city famous for its grand architecture and vibrant culture, completing a perfect blend of coastal beauty and historic charm.

DUNEDIN/OTEPOTI – often called the “Edinburgh of the South”, Dunedin was settled by the Scottish settlers that came to New Zealand. It is a city of spires, of towers, gables and roofs with turrets, and gracious, generally stone, buildings. Dunedin is also home to the Albatross and Penguin colonies plus many species of New Zealand wildlife.

Today, you’ll join a Monarch Wildlife Cruises and Tours – Standard Peninsula Encounter Tour plus Monarch Cruise. Explore the Otago Peninsula on this guided, small group tour. Travel over the high road with postcard views of the harbour and coast. A short walk from the mini-bus will bring you to a remote beach with dramatic views of rugged coastal cliffs, offshore islands and possibly some huge sea lions. The trip continues to Wellers Rock Wharf for a one-hour Wildlife Cruise. You’ll travel out of the harbour, around Taiaroa Head, and out to sea. Watch royal albatross glide across the water as they return to their breeding colony and fur seals on the rocks below the historic lighthouse. You’ll also spot other rare seabirds and possibly blue penguins or other marine mammals.

Today you’ll leave the coastal city of Dunedin behind and travel inland. The route passes through the rugged and beautiful landscape of Central Otago, a region known for its dramatic hills and rock formations. You’ll eventually approach the stunning Lake Wakatipu, with views of the Remarkables mountain range, before arriving at Queenstown.

You may wish to enhance your evening by considering an optional tour to Walter Peak Station for a delicious lakeside BBQ dinner and breathtaking views.

Today you’ll return your rental car today and leave New Zealand ready to share your extraordinary memories and plan your next trip down to see us.