31 Day Ultimate Escape Tour – North to South 

Welcome to New Zealand! Upon arrival you will be picked up for your private transfer from Auckland International Airport to your hotel.

AUCKLAND / TAMAKI MAKAURAU – an exciting, sporting and cultural city, sprawled on a narrow isthmus, between two harbours. The Waitemata and Manukau Harbours, are a main feature of the city, along with numerous volcanic cones such as Mount Eden and Rangitoto Island. The city’s many beaches, marinas and parks, make it ideal for outdoor pursuits such as yachting, rugby, cricket or a day at the beach. The Auckland metropolitan area is New Zealand’s biggest city, and the population mix of European, Māori, and Pacific Islander, make Auckland the largest Polynesian city in the World.

SKYCITY Auckland – Sky Tower, Total Tower Experience – Sky Tower/Sky Deck. This afternoon you will enjoy The Total Tower Experience which allows you to explore every publicly accessible level of the Sky Tower. You’ll take a glass-fronted elevator to the main observation deck at 186 meters and continue up to the Sky Deck at 220 meters for even more spectacular panoramic views of Auckland. The experience offers a chance to see Auckland’s volcanoes, harbors, and islands, and provides an impressive perspective on the city’s geography.

Today you’ll pick up your Compact SUV Budget Rental Car and head north from the city and discover the breathtaking beauty of Northland, New Zealand’s ‘Winterless North.’ This vibrant region offers stunning beaches, lush subtropical forests, and rich Māori culture. Explore the famous Bay of Islands, a paradise for sailing, dolphin cruises, and island hopping. Experience the ancient history at Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where New Zealand’s story began. Wander through charming coastal towns, indulge in fresh seafood, and marvel at untouched natural landscapes. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Northland promises unforgettable experiences in a spectacular setting.

BAY OF ISLANDS/IPIPIRI – This was the name given by Captain James Cook when he described the area 200 years ago. The Bay, studded with over 150 islands, is a “drowned river system,” an area where the sea has invaded and drowned a number of river valleys. Its sheltered waters offer some of the finest boating and fishing to be found anywhere. The Bay of Islands was the site of the first Christian Mission station in New Zealand, as well as having New Zealand’s first capital city, Russell, which is now a quiet little seaside village.

Northland Ferries, Paihia – Russell – Paihia Ferry. When you reach your accommodation, we have included a ferry over to explore Russell and its eateries. Northland Ferries operates passenger and vehicle ferries in the Bay of Islands, providing regular and reliable connections for the local community and visitors to the region. It’s a fun and easy way to get out on the water and get a feel for the Bay of Islands.

There’s nothing like waking up in the Bay of Islands and today we’ve included a special Northland tour that we know you will love.

Salt Air Cape Reinga Fly/Drive. This unique tour offers a spectacular perspective of New Zealand’s Far North. You’ll take an initial scenic flight over Ninety Mile Beach, land at a private airstrip, and then board a vehicle for a guided tour of the Cape Reinga lighthouse and Te Paki sand dunes, where you can sandboard. The return flight provides breathtaking views of the east coast, including remote white sand beaches and the Bay of Islands.

Before leaving the Bay of Islands, start the day with an optional visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. This historic site is where New Zealand’s founding treaty was signed, offering guided tours, cultural performances, and museum exhibits.

Today, this is a great trip that takes you from the beautiful eastern Bay of Islands to the more rugged and remote west coast. You’ll travel inland through scenic rural routes and forests. Omapere is a peaceful town on the Hokianga Harbour, famous for its massive sand dunes and its significance in Māori legend and history.

NORTHLAND/TE TAI TOKERAU – Spring in subtropical Northland brings the senses alive. Imagine ocean waves lapping on white sand beaches with the warming sun on your skin. Listen to native birdsong in ancient kauri forests. Savour the taste of luscious fruits and fresh seafood and inhale the fragrance of early blooms. The subtropical Northland experience promises a contrast between the relative sophistication of the east coast and the soulful simplicity of the west coast.

Today we’ve included two of our favourite tours in this area of Northland.

Manea Footprints of Kupe Manea Footprints of Kupe. This is a unique cultural and heritage experience that takes you into Te Ao Maori, the Māori world. You’ll be welcomed by the descendants of Kupe and guided through a multi-faceted journey that preserves and celebrates the story of their ancestor’s voyage to New Zealand. The experience uses art, film, and live performance to provide an authentic and immersive insight into tribal histories.

Footprints Waipoua/Crossings Hokianga Twilight Encounter. This world-acclaimed night tour takes you on a journey through the ancient Waipoua Forest with a local Māori guide. The tour begins with a prayer seeking permission to enter the forest. As day transitions to night, your senses will be enhanced as you meet some of the world’s oldest and largest kauri trees, including the majestic Tane Mahuta, with your guide sharing legends and songs.

This trip takes you from the remote beauty of the Hokianga Harbour and back to civilization. You’ll travel through scenic, rural Northland and past the giant Waipoua Forest before connecting back to the main highway and heading south to Auckland.

In Auckland, we suggest taking an optional tour to the All Blacks Experience, where you’ll dive into the history, culture, and passion behind New Zealand’s legendary rugby team through interactive exhibits and immersive storytelling.

Prepare for a fantastic trip from Auckland to the Coromandel. You’ll leave the city behind and head east to the coast. Pauanui is a lovely, laid-back beach town known for its wide, sandy beach and relaxing holiday vibe. It’s the perfect place for a nights break.

PAUANUI – Located in the beautiful Coromandel region of New Zealand, Pauanui would have to be amongst the most beautiful spots in the world. A tranquil harbour rests behind Pauanui making it a sheltered and idyllic settlement. Safe swimming and surfing, climb Pauanui Mountain via a walking track, catch a ferry to nearby Tairua and explore the surrounding area.

Kiwi Dundee Adventures Nature & Coastal Tour. Today you will be collected by your Kiwi Dundee guide and explore the Coromandel Peninsula. This small-group tour is designed to get you off the beaten path and into the heart of the Coromandel’s wild beauty. Your guide, a local legend, will take you on a journey to explore secluded waterfalls and ancient rainforests. The tour also includes visits to some of the area’s most beautiful beaches, all while your guide shares stories and insights into the region’s history, geology, and unique flora and fauna.

Today you’ll leave Tairua on the Coromandel coast and travel inland through forested valleys. The journey crosses the Hauraki Plains with its dairy farms and small towns. Continue past lakes and geothermal areas before arriving in Rotorua, a city known for its geysers and rich Māori cultural heritage.

On your way enjoy a detour to the Hobbiton Movie Set and take a Hobbiton Movie Set Tour. Time to step into Middle-earth with this enchanting guided tour. You’ll journey through the picturesque sheep farm to the movie set, where you’ll see the Hobbit Holes, the Mill, and the Party Tree. Your guide will share fascinating behind-the-scenes stories and movie magic secrets, culminating in a complimentary beverage at the world-famous Green Dragon Inn.

ROTORUA – located on a volcanic plateau, and formerly a spa town, Rotorua is most famous for its geothermal activity. Rotorua is the main place in New Zealand where aspects of Maori traditions can be seen, from wood carvings, and meeting houses, to a Hangi Dinner and Maori dances. Native and introduced tree species abound locally and combined with several picturesque lakes, Rotorua is a fascinating mix of culture and nature.

Today experience two of Rotorua’s best activities, the perfect way to see what Rotorua is all about.

Waimangu Volcanic Valley, Self Guided Walk & Boat Cruise. This is the most popular way to experience the Waimangu Volcanic Valley. You’ll first take a self-guided walk through the valley to see the unique geothermal features, including the stunning Inferno Crater. At the end of the walk, you’ll embark on a scenic boat cruise of Lake Rotomahana, where you can see the geysers and hot springs from the water, all while a knowledgeable guide provides commentary.

Te Puia, Te Po combo (Guided experience + Indigenous Evening). This is a perfect way to experience Māori culture and the geothermal wonders of Rotorua. The tour begins with a guided walk, where you’ll see the famous Pōhutu Geyser at dusk. You’ll then be welcomed into the Marae (meeting house) with a pōwhiri (traditional welcome), followed by a cultural performance and a delicious hāngī feast. The experience concludes with a hot chocolate at the geyser under the stars.

Depart Rotorua and travel through Kaingaroa Forest and the landscapes of a volcanic plateau. The route then crosses the Kaweka Ranges, with its winding mountain roads, before descending into Hawke’s Bay. You’ll pass through beautiful orchards and vineyards before arriving in Napier, a city known for its stunning Art Deco architecture.

NAPIER/AHURIRI – the largest city in the Hawke’s Bay, whose port handles the province’s huge volumes of produce, spreads around the wedge of Bluff Hill, sometimes still referred to as “Scinde Island.” Napier was almost completely surrounded by water before the severe 1931 earthquake flattened the city but uplifted vast areas of the surrounding seabed. As a result of the disaster, the city was almost completely rebuilt during the 1930’s, giving it an Art Deco style of architecture, unique to a New Zealand city.

Today you are heading on a guided walk of Napier a short activity popular with all our guests. Following perhaps venture out on the short drive that takes you between the cities of Napier and Hastings. The two towns are very close, and the journey is perfect for a quick transfer between the Art Deco architecture of Napier and the lovely cafes and shops of Hastings.

The Art Deco Trust, Guided walk. This tour is an easy walk with a passionate local guide who will bring Napier’s history to life. You will see some of the city’s best examples of the Art Deco, Spanish Mission, and Stripped Classical styles. The tour begins with a short film about the devastating 1931 earthquake, providing context for the city’s remarkable and stylish rebirth.

This is a great journey that takes you from Hastings in Hawke’s Bay and travels south to the Wairarapa. You’ll travel through beautiful rural landscapes before you arrive in Martinborough, a delightful wine village famous for its superb pinot noir.

MARTINBOROUGH/WHAREKAKA – is located approximately 1 hour 15 minutes from Wellington, with a population of 1500 Martinborough Village is wedged between dozens of vineyards and offers much more than wine tours and tastings. The small village square has a range of places to eat, great pub food, cafes and quality fine dining. Enjoy historic or boutique hotels, vineyard retreats and rustic cottages. Shop at designer clothing outlets, galleries and specialist shops or pamper yourself at the day spa. Step outside the square for olive grove tours and tastings, walks, crystal clear swimming holes and horseback views of the beautiful valley. Get out on a top-class golf course, speed across farmland on a quad bike, enjoy a jet boat ride or for something quite different experience clay pigeon shooting.

Leave Martinborough, a delightful wine village, and travel through the picturesque Wairarapa region. You’ll pass through the charming towns of Greytown and Featherston before beginning a climb up the Remutaka Hill Road, which offers sweeping views back over the valleys. The final descent brings you into Wellington, a city nestled on a stunning natural harbor.

WELLINGTON/TE WHANGANUI-A-TARA – the Capital city of New Zealand since 1865, is situated around Wellington harbour, its houses clinging precipitously to the steep hillsides. Wellington is renowned for its wind which is channelled through the Cook Strait, and causes the wind to blow most days. A clever blend of buildings, old and new, beautiful vistas of the city and harbour, and a cosmopolitan mix of culture and arts give Wellington its heart, and vibrant atmosphere.

Te Papa Museum of New Zealand, Introducing Te Papa. included today is this one-hour guided tour which is an excellent way to get the most out of your visit to Te Papa. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the museum, sharing captivating stories and providing a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s rich history, art, and culture, from its unique geological past to its indigenous Māori traditions.

This journey involves a scenic ferry trip and a coastal journey. You’ll take the ferry from Wellington to Picton and then travel south and west along the stunning coastline of Golden Bay before arriving in Kaiteriteri, the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park.

Interislander Wellington to Picton. This is a spectacular journey, often described as one of the world’s most scenic ferry crossings. As you depart Wellington’s harbor, you’ll enter the Cook Strait, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean. The highlight of the trip is the cruise through the tranquil Marlborough Sounds, with its secluded bays, lush forests, and rugged coastline. Onboard, you can relax in comfort, enjoy locally sourced cuisine and drinks, or simply take in the incredible views from the observation decks.

KAITERITERI – Loved for its beautiful golden sand beach, the sunny town of Kaiteriteri is a launching place for trips into the Abel Tasman National Park. This attractive beach town is 13 kilometres from Motueka and handy to the Abel Tasman National Park. Known for its beautiful golden sand (made of quartz and mica particles) and clear blue-green water, Kaiteriteri has a motor camp, motels, a general store and a choice of places to eat (check out the seafood). Local hikes include Withells Walk and Kaka Pah Point. From Kaiteriteri you can catch a water taxi or tour into the Abel Tasman National Park; you can also hire kayaks or arrange to go seal swimming.

Today explore this stunning area on a Wilson’s Abel Tasman Cruise/Walk – Seals & Beach. Travel in style and comfort aboard the Vista Cruise into Tonga Island Marine Reserve. Pause to view the antics at Tonga Island Seal Colony then land at historic Tonga Quarry Beach. Embark on a 2 hour walk over a forested saddle (maximum elevation 120 metres/400 ft) and around the Bark Bay waterfall trail, crossing the photogenic swing bridge beside Bark Bay Falls. Take some extra time to relax on the golden sands at Bark Bay beach before you continue on to picturesque Medlands Beach.

This is a full-day journey that takes you south, passing through the city of Nelson, and then along the stunning coastline. You’ll get to see a huge variety of South Island scenery, from the golden beaches of the Tasman region and the inland vineyards of Marlborough, to the dramatic coast of Kaikōura, where the mountains meet the sea. This is a drive that will enthrall you.

KAIKOURA/TE TAUMANU O TE WAKA A MAUI – means “to eat crayfish”, from the Maori words “Kai” meaning food, and Koura meaning crayfish. You can savour crayfish here in Kaikoura, view whales and dolphins at play, or visit local galleries and craft shops, or take a walk along the Peninsula Walkway. If you travel out onto the Kaikoura Peninsula and look back towards the mountains, an amazing tableau will appear before you. The seaward Kaikoura Range appears to rise from the sea, with the snow-capped Southern Alps as a backdrop.

Today you will venture out on one of New Zealand’s most iconic tours joining Whale Watch Kaikoura’s famous Whale Watching Tour, Captain’s Cabin. For a more intimate and luxurious experience, this tour provides a seat in the VIP Captain’s Cabin. You’ll get priority boarding, exclusive business-class seating, and personal interaction with the captain. You will enjoy a delicious food box and cold drinks while watching for whales and other marine life, all while getting a unique behind-the-scenes perspective on the navigation and search for wildlife.

A very popular trip that takes you south along the stunning coastline. The route hugs the Pacific Ocean, offering incredible views, and it’s a great place to spot seals basking on the rocks right next to the highway. You’ll leave the dramatic coastal scenery behind as you approach the city of Christchurch, a perfect way to end a coastal adventure.

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.

The perfect way to see Christchurch and its wider city. Leave your car at the hotel and join Canterbury Trails on their popular Christchurch City Full Day Tour. This tour is designed for travelers who want to experience all that Christchurch has to offer. You’ll explore the revitalized city center, the Botanic Gardens, and iconic landmarks. The day also includes a visit to the charming seaside suburbs of Lyttleton and Sumner, a scenic drive over the Port Hills, and a delicious lunch at a local cafe.

Prepare your camera for this spectacular trip that takes you inland from Christchurch. You’ll pass through the Canterbury Plains and enter the Mackenzie Country, with breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and the vibrant turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki. The route then leads you directly to Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain.

MOUNT COOK/AORAKI – whose Maori name “Aorangi” means “Cloud Piercer” is some 3753.5 metres high and surrounded by a host of massive peaks. Mount Cook is New Zealand’s highest mountain, and can quite often be surrounded by cloud, constantly vulnerable to the fast changing weather patterns of an alpine climate.

The Hermitage Big Sky Stargazing. This evening you will join an expert astronomy guide for a mesmerizing 90-minute journey through the cosmos. You’ll be taken to a purpose-built viewing platform where, on a clear night, you can explore the Southern Cross, planets, and galaxies through powerful telescopes. Your guide will share their knowledge of the night sky, creating an unforgettable experience in this internationally recognized dark sky reserve.

This scenic trip takes you inland from the base of Aoraki / Mount Cook. Before you head off you might want to consider doing a Skiplane or heli tour around Mount Cook and we have suggested done below. The journey to Dunedin passes through the rugged landscapes of Central Otago before you get to the coast and the city of Dunedin. The scenery changes dramatically as you approach the city, and you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views of the Southern Alps and the turquoise glacial lakes.

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.

We’ve included a visit to Larnach Castle, Castle & Garden Entry on your way. Step back in time with a visit to Larnach Castle, a gothic revival masterpiece built in 1871. Your entry gives you access to the castle’s restored interior, where you can learn about the history of the Larnach family. You can also explore the stunning gardens of international significance and climb the tower for panoramic views of the Otago Peninsula and surrounding harbor.

Known for its rugged coastline and amazing wildlife we’ve include two tours today to show you the best of both.

Royal Albatross Centre, Unique Tour. This exclusive 90-minute private tour provides an intimate experience with the magnificent Northern Royal Albatross. With a dedicated expert guide, you will learn about the breeding cycle of these majestic birds and their conservation. You’ll view the albatross from a secluded, glass-fronted observatory and explore the historical Fort Taiaroa, which offers insights into the area’s human history.

Blue Penguins Pukekura, Otago Peninsula In Depth Tour.  This comprehensive and educational tour is designed for those with a thirst for knowledge. Your expert guide will take you to explore the remote parts of the peninsula, pointing out unique ecosystems, significant Māori sites, and a variety of wildlife. The tour concludes with the Blue Penguin Pukekura Experience, where you can watch the world’s smallest penguins come ashore at dusk.

This journey takes you southwest from Dunedin, passing through some lovely rural areas and smaller towns. The landscape is a mix of farmlands and high country, and as you get closer to Te Anau, you’ll start to feel the grandeur of the mountains and lakes that make up Fiordland. Te Anau is a great place to stay overnight before heading into Milford Sound.

TE ANAU – the focal point of the Fiordland National Park, the country’s most rugged and remote. Lake Te Anau sprawls at the feet of high rugged mountains with its South, Middle and North fiords probing into the ranges. The Lake, New Zealand’s second largest, is 417 metres deep.

RealNZ, Te Anau – Glowworm Caves. Once you’ve settled in around 4pm you will embark on a guided journey into the enchanting Te Anau Glowworm Caves, where rushing underground streams and luminous glowworms create a magical experience unlike any other. Your adventure begins with a scenic cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Te Anau aboard one of our purpose-built vessels. On arrival at Cavern House, explore fascinating displays that uncover the caves’ geology and history before your guide leads you into the underground labyrinth. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide will highlight the caves’ unique features and share captivating stories about their formation and discovery.

Leave Te Anau today and travel through the Eglinton Valley, a landscape carved by glaciers. The route allows you to stop at Mirror Lakes and continues past Lake Gunn. You will travel through the Homer Tunnel into the Cleddau Valley before arriving in Milford Sound, a dramatic fiord framed by Mitre Peak and towering cliffs.

Real Journeys Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise ex Te Anau (Does NOT operate June/July or August). Board the Milford Mariner for a cruise on the full length of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea. An on-board Nature guide with specialist knowledge of the region’s history, flora and fauna provides detailed interpretation in English with a roving microphone. Plenty of time available to explore points of interest and view the spectacular alpine scenery including waterfalls, rainforest and the towering peaks; and keep a lookout for wildlife including seals, dolphins and penguins when in season. After reaching the open sea, sails may be hoisted subject to weather and conditions. The vessel then returns to the fiord and anchors overnight in sheltered Harrison Cove.

Activities include kayaking and exploring the shoreline on the tender craft. Overnight cruise includes a three-course buffet evening meal and beverages are available for purchased at the licensed on board bar. The next morning following a cooked or continental breakfast, there is further cruising before returning to the Milford Wharf. Reboard your coach for your return journey to Te Anau.

Accommodation tonight is on the Mariner.

Departing Milford Sound, you’ll retrace your route through the Homer Tunnel and Cleddau Valley. Travel through the Eglinton Valley and along the shores of Lake Te Anau. The journey then continues through the rural towns of Mossburn and Lumsden in Southland. Your trip concludes as you arrive in Queenstown, a vibrant town surrounded by majestic mountains and Lake Wakatipu.

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 myriad of fun on offer in this extraordinary destination.

Today you’ll embark on a Dart River Adventures. Dart River Wilderness Jet with take you on journey deep into the heart of world-renowned Mount Aspiring National Park, where myth, heritage and fantasy come to life. This ultimate wilderness jet boat adventure takes you on an unforgettable journey along the braided, glacier-fed Dart River. Experience the unique combination of breath-taking scenery and an exhilarating ride as you venture deep into Mount Aspiring National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Area. With unrivalled National Park access, you’ll cover up to 90km of river on a trip making Dart River Adventures the longest jet boat ride in the region. With plenty of time to connect with the area and take in the scenery, your guides give you their authentic touch, sharing stories of the area’s rich history, the Greenstone trail and renowned Māori legends.

Before you depart Queenstown we are going to give you one last adrenalin rush on the iconic Shotover Jet, Shotover Jet Boat Ride. This is a world-famous adventure. You’ll be on a powerful jet boat with a highly skilled driver who will navigate through the narrow canyons of the Shotover River. The ride is packed with excitement, with speeds of up to 85km/h and heart-pounding 360-degree spins, all while the stunning scenery rushes past.

Next is a relatively long and incredibly scenic journey that links the adventure hub with the West Coast glaciers. On route to Franz Josef 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.

There’s nowhere like Franz Josef and today you’ll experience the best of it with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours, on their Cruise & Walk tour. This unique tour offers a two-and-a-half-hour immersion into the untouched beauty of the Franz Josef region. You’ll begin with a tranquil cruise across Lake Mapourika, a scenic gem known for its mirror-like reflections of the surrounding Southern Alps and ancient rainforest. Your knowledgeable guide will share local stories and point out native birdlife as you glide across the calm water. The highlight of the trip is an exclusive landing at the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary, where you’ll embark on a guided walk along a private rainforest trail. This is a rare opportunity to experience a Jurassic-like ecosystem, with towering trees and a lush undergrowth, all while learning about the conservation efforts for the critically endangered Rowi kiwi.

Today you’ll drive from Franz Josef to Greymouth and return your rental car. From Greymouth, 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 from the farmlands of the Canterbury Plains through river gorges and into the mountains of Arthur’s Pass, offering incredible views from the open-air viewing carriage.

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.

Transferred to Christchurch Airport and leave New Zealand ready to share your extraordinary memories and plan your next trip down to see us.