South Island Grand Discovery (Superior) - 14 Days

On arrival in Christchurch, you will be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening, enjoy a pre-dinner drink as you meet your tour leader and fellow travellers before dinner.

Please note: For arrivals later than 8.00pm, dinner is not included.

This morning, an introductory city tour showcases Christchurch’s revitalised centre, now buzzing with new energy. We then visit the International Antarctic Centre, where you will gain fascinating insight into life in Antarctica. Back in the city, enjoy a leisurely journey on the charming Christchurch Tram - a wonderful way to discover the city’s history and key landmarks. This evening is free for you to dine at leisure.

Today we board the TranzAlpine, widely regarded as one of the world’s great rail journeys. Travel across towering viaducts, through river valleys and dramatic gorges, before descending through the Otira Tunnel to Moana on the shores of beautiful Lake Brunner. After lunch at the Kingfisher Restaurant, we continue to the coastal township of Punakaiki.

This morning we explore the famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. We then continue south to Greymouth, home of Monteith’s Brewing Co., where we enjoy a tasting over lunch.

Later, travel to Hokitika, well known for its greenstone, before arriving in Franz Josef. There may be time to take an optional scenic flight over the spectacular glaciers, weather permitting.

Take in the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as we travel south through the breathtaking Haast Pass. We arrive in Queenstown, a year-round resort town set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. With 3 nights here, there is time to slow the pace and enjoy this outstanding alpine setting.

Today we discover some of Queenstown’s highlights. Our first stop is Arrowtown, a charming former gold mining village, where we visit the Lakes District Museum. We then head to Gibbston Valley Winery for a tasting in New Zealand’s largest wine cave, followed by lunch in the restaurant.

This evening, board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. At the Colonel’s Homestead, enjoy a gourmet barbecue dinner featuring seasonal, fresh and locally sourced produce. After dinner, there is a short farm tour before we reboard the TSS Earnslaw for the return cruise to Queenstown, complete with a sing-along around the piano.

Queenstown is known for its adventure activities, excellent dining, award-winning wine and lively atmosphere. Today is free for you to explore at your own pace. The crew will be happy to help you choose from the many optional activities available. This evening is also free for you to dine at one of Queenstown’s many restaurants.

Today we travel via Te Anau to Manapouri. Enjoy lunch while cruising across this glacial lake. A short journey over Wilmot Pass brings us to the boarding point for the Fiordland Navigator and an unforgettable overnight cruise.

As we explore the untouched beauty of Doubtful Sound, naturalist guides share commentary and point out resident wildlife. There may be opportunities to explore the shoreline by tender boat or kayak - swimwear required - or simply relax on board. In the evening, enjoy a carvery buffet prepared by the onboard chef.

Start the day with a hearty breakfast before heading back to Deep Cove for the trip to Manapouri. Return to the wharf and meet your Ultimate Coach. Continue your journey to Invercargill, one of the southernmost cities in the world, where you will have time to explore at leisure.

This morning, enjoy a guided visit to Bill Richardson Transport World, a remarkable private collection showcased in a striking, purpose-built Art Deco building. The impressive displays include vintage trucks, rare classic cars, historic petrol pumps, and an ever-expanding exhibition of Wearable Arts. From here, travel through the breathtaking Catlins region, where lush rainforest gives way to spectacular coastal scenery.

Stop at Curio Bay, famous for its 180-million-year-old Jurassic petrified forest, before enjoying lunch. Continue to Purakaunui Falls, a magnificent triple-tiered waterfall and a favourite spot for photography. As the journey unfolds, take in dramatic coastal views and scenic lookouts before arriving in Dunedin, your home for the next two nights.

Travel along the scenic Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle. On our guided tour, hear the tragic and scandalous stories that shape the castle’s history. Enjoy a High Tea in the Grand Ballroom and time to wander through the gardens, recognised as a Garden of International Significance.

Dunedin prospered during the gold rush and today has one of the Southern Hemisphere’s finest collections of Edwardian and Victorian architecture. An orientation tour introduces the city’s key sights. Optional activities include a wildlife excursion to see animals in their natural habitat, or a guided tour of Olveston Historic Home.

This morning we leave Dunedin and travel to Oamaru, known for its distinctive limestone buildings. Following the Waitaki River inland, we enjoy superb views of Aoraki - Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak.

This morning, marvel at Mount Cook. There is also an opportunity to take an optional scenic flight - weather permitting - over the Southern Alps. We continue to Lake Tekapo, where we see its vivid turquoise water, the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Sheepdog Statue, before returning to Christchurch. This evening, enjoy a pre-dinner drink and reflect on the journey with your fellow travellers at the farewell dinner.

Kia ora. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.

Please note: If departing the hotel before the restaurant opens, breakfast is not included.