Christchurch: South Island Explorer Premier Escorted Vacation
- Duration
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 8,620
Explore the breathtaking landscape of the South Island and enjoy premier accommodations on this journey across New Zealand. Starting in Christchurch, you’ll explore the natural wonders of New Zealand’s South Island, including Aoraki/Mt. Cook, Milford Sound, and the lake country of Queenstown.
This 12-day trip to New Zealand takes you on a premier escorted tour of the highlights of the South Island, visiting Christchurch, Aoraki/Mt. Cook, Dunedin, Milford Sound, and Queenstown.
Your New Zealand tour begins in Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island with a popular just under 400,000. Known as the Garden City, Christchurch has the most distinctly English atmosphere of any city in the country. Although the city remains in the process of recovery and redevelopment after the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011, it’s still a beautiful city. Spend the rest of your day exploring some of its most popular sites, such as the Botanical Gardens. The next day, reach the foot of Aoraki/Mt. Cook, the highest mountain in New Zealand. Hike along the foothills at the base of the mountain to see the gorgeous scenery. In the summer, you can even ride a boat out onto the water to see the icebergs of Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake.
Continue your New Zealand vacation by heading to Dunedin, a city known as the Edinburgh of the South. Admire the city’s Victorian and Edwardian architecture on a guided tour, heading to Larnach Castle and Olveston House. You can also visit the famous railway station or enjoy a pint at Speight’s Brewery, which has been brewing beer since 1876. Pass on to Te Anau, a town sitting at the gateway of Fiordland National Park. Based in Te Anau, head to nearby caves to delve underground and explore a world illuminated by glowworms. You can also take a cruise along Doubtful Sound or visit one of the local wineries to relax with a glass of wine. Pass into Fiordland and visit Milford Sound, the most popular sight in the country. Take a cruise along the gorgeous waters of Milford Sound and peer up at Mitre Peak, the fjord’s crowning achievement.
Continue your New Zealand vacation to Queenstown, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in the Southern Alps. Known as the Adventure Capital of the World, Queenstown is where you can satisfy your wildest outdoor ambitions. Spend a few days in Queenstown taking advantage of its many attractions. You can visit some filming locations from The Lord of the Rings or hike through the forest to see a variety of local birds. You can also get your adrenaline fix by sky diving from airplanes, bungie jumping from bridges, or jet-skiing across the waters of Lake Wakatipu. You can also tee up for 18 holes of golf at one of the many golf courses or visit a winery to taste some of New Zealand’s famous vintages.
Pass onto the alpine country around Franz Josef and admire Franz Josef Glacier, one of the two largest glaciers in the country. You can also ride the famous TranzAlpine Train throughout the mountains for the best views of the countryside. Then close out your New Zealand tour by returning to Christchurch, where you’ll continue your onward journey.
- Duration
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 8,620
Itinerary View Trip Map
Arrive Christchurch
On arrival in Christchurch, you'll be meet and transferred to your hotel.
| Duration | 1 Night |
|---|---|
| Accommodation |
Rydges Latimer Christchurch |
| Location | View map |
-
Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Rydges Latimer Christchurch is located just 2 minutes walking distance from the city's CBD, is within easy driving distance of a stunning collection of local attractions and activities and only a 15 minute drive from Christchurch International Airport and features 138 guest rooms and extensive ...
Rydges Latimer Christchurch is located just 2 minutes walking distance from the city's CBD, is within easy driving distance of a stunning collection of local attractions and activities and only a 15 minute drive from Christchurch International Airport and features 138 guest rooms and extensive banquet facilities with a capacity to cater for up to 360 people, making it the largest hotel function space in Christchurch.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Conference Facilities
- Restaurant
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
Christchurch, Mt. Cook
Discover beloved Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand. In the evening, you'll enjoy a tantalising Farewell Dinner at your hotel.
Signature Experience
Enter Aoraki Mt Cook National Park and admire Mt Cook.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
The Hermitage Aoraki Mount Cook |
| Location | View map |
-
The Hermitage Aoraki Mount Cook
Discover the spectacle and drama of New Zealand's Aoraki Mount Cook National Park from the splendour and comfort of The Hermitage Aoraki Mount Cook. The Hermitage, located within Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, has a range of accommodation types available. The main hotel complex contains ...
Discover the spectacle and drama of New Zealand's Aoraki Mount Cook National Park from the splendour and comfort of The Hermitage Aoraki Mount Cook. The Hermitage, located within Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, has a range of accommodation types available. The main hotel complex contains 164 rooms, while 32 Motel and 20 Chalet self-contained units are located 200-800m away in the village. From an intrepid journey through glacial valleys to a mouth-watering culinary dining adventure, The Hermitage Hotel is the perfect place to base your adventure and discover why this region has endeared itself to Kiwi adventure seekers for so long.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Conference Facilities
- Currency Exchange
- Lounge(s)
- Parking
- Restaurant(s)
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 5
Mt Cook
Personalise your experience today with our range of Freedom of Choice activities.
Freedom of Choice Sightseeing
Perhaps visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre or embark on a guided nature walk.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|
Mt Cook, Dunedin
Travel to Dunedin and choose your sightseeing activity today
Freedom of Choice Sightseeing
Perhaps tour Larnach Castle and visit Olveston House; or visit Dunedin's beautiful railway station and journey along the Taieri Gorge Railway. Those who enjoy a beer might like to tour Speight's Brewery. Alternatively, nature lovers can embark on an off-road tour of the beautiful Otago Peninsula.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Distinction Dunedin |
| Location | View map |
-
Distinction Dunedin
One of Dunedin's oldest heritage buildings has been lovingly transformed into Dunedin's newest hotel. This iconic 121 room property is the ideal base for business or leisure. It is conveniently located in the rejuvenated and vibrant exchange area in the heart of Dunedin city. Each ...
One of Dunedin's oldest heritage buildings has been lovingly transformed into Dunedin's newest hotel. This iconic 121 room property is the ideal base for business or leisure. It is conveniently located in the rejuvenated and vibrant exchange area in the heart of Dunedin city. Each elegant studio and suite boasts stylish contemporary design and functionality.
Facilities
- Bar
- Conference Facilities
- Free WiFi
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Laundry facilities
- Restaurant
- Room Service
- Tour Desk
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
Dunedin Te Anau
Travel through mountain scenery to Te Anau.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Distinction Hotel and Villas Te Anau |
| Location | View map |
-
Distinction Hotel and Villas Te Anau
Distinction Hotel and Villas is situated on Lakefront Drive facing Lake Te Anau, the South Island's largest lake. The expansive well maintained gardens and grounds surrounding the hotel provide the perfect complement to the attractive lake and mountain views. This hotel is very centrally located, ...
Distinction Hotel and Villas is situated on Lakefront Drive facing Lake Te Anau, the South Island's largest lake. The expansive well maintained gardens and grounds surrounding the hotel provide the perfect complement to the attractive lake and mountain views. This hotel is very centrally located, with just a short walk to a well-equipped shopping centre (open seven days a week), where you'll find retail outlets, restaurants and cafes. The hotel's 112 rooms are comprised of 4 Deluxe Suites, 80 Hotel Rooms, 13 Villa Suites and 15 Villa Rooms.
Facilities
- Barbeques (BBQ)
- Bellman/Porters
- Business Centre
- Currency Exchange
- Internet Access
- Laundry facilities
- Lounge(s)
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Spa
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 4
Freedom of Choice
This morning, choose your activity.
Freedom of Choice Sightseeing
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Te Anau, Milford Sound Cruise, Queenstown
Journey along the Milford Road into the heart of Fiordland National Park. Keep your camera ready as you wind down the Eglinton and Hollyford valleys, then drive through the Homer Tunnel to be met by the sight of Mitre Peak. Continue to Milford Sound, before making your way to Queenstown.
Signature Experience
Enjoy a cruise that explores the full length of the pristine Milford Sound.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Millennium Hotel Queenstown |
| Location | View map |
-
Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Whether staying for business or pleasure this hotel has something for everyone to enjoy. The Millennium Hotel Queenstown is located in the heart of Queenstown close to the central shopping, entertainment areas and minutes from various other outdoors activities such as bungee jumping, white water ...
Whether staying for business or pleasure this hotel has something for everyone to enjoy. The Millennium Hotel Queenstown is located in the heart of Queenstown close to the central shopping, entertainment areas and minutes from various other outdoors activities such as bungee jumping, white water rafting and jet boating. All of the 220 rooms and suites have been created with touches of luxury and have an atmosphere of relaxation.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Concierge
- Conference Facilities
- Currency Exchange
- Daycare/Babysitting Service
- Express Check In/Out
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Massage Treatments
- Parking
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Spa
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 5
Freedom of Choice
Personalise your experience today with our range of Freedom of Choice activities and dining options.
Freedom of Choice Sightseeing
Perhaps visit several local sites where the Lord of the Rings trilogy was filmed. Thrill-seekers may enjoy an exhilarating ride on the Shotover Jet Boat, a Skippers Canyon adventure, or a river safari along the Dart River.
Freedom of Choice Dining
In Queenstown, choose where to dine this evening. Sample the freshest South Island produce at Finz seafood restaurant, or take a scenic gondola ride to the Skyline Restaurant for stunning panoramic views. You may prefer a dinner cruise aboard the TSS Earnslaw, or dine at Elements Restaurant.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|
Queenstown
Enjoy the day at leisure today in New Zealand's adventure capital'.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Queenstown, Wanaka, Franz Josef Glacier
Travel alongside the breathtaking scenery of Haast River Valley to Franz Josef Glacier.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Accommodation |
Te Waonui Forest Retreat |
| Location | View map |
-
Te Waonui Forest Retreat
A haven from the city rush, a foray into New Zealand's pristine wilderness - Te Waonui Forest Retreat is truly a place to relax and refresh. All focus has been on creating a healthy, environmentally safe habitat to maximise guests' wellbeing. With a natural, earthy ...
A haven from the city rush, a foray into New Zealand's pristine wilderness - Te Waonui Forest Retreat is truly a place to relax and refresh. All focus has been on creating a healthy, environmentally safe habitat to maximise guests' wellbeing. With a natural, earthy ambience and attentive service, there's no better place to take a deep breath and simply unwind.
Facilities
- Bar
- Concierge
- Laundry facilities
- Reception (24 hrs)
- Restaurant
- Room Service
- Valet Parking
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 5
Franz Josef Glacier, TranzAlpine Train, Christchurch
Experience the TranzAlpine train today.
Signature Experience
Board the TranzAlpine train for New Zealand's greatest rail adventure.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Accommodation |
Rydges Latimer Christchurch |
| Location | View map |
-
Rydges Latimer Christchurch
Rydges Latimer Christchurch is located just 2 minutes walking distance from the city's CBD, is within easy driving distance of a stunning collection of local attractions and activities and only a 15 minute drive from Christchurch International Airport and features 138 guest rooms and extensive ...
Rydges Latimer Christchurch is located just 2 minutes walking distance from the city's CBD, is within easy driving distance of a stunning collection of local attractions and activities and only a 15 minute drive from Christchurch International Airport and features 138 guest rooms and extensive banquet facilities with a capacity to cater for up to 360 people, making it the largest hotel function space in Christchurch.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Conference Facilities
- Restaurant
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
Depart Christchurch
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
2018: Nov 14, 30; Dec 9, 18, 25, 29
2019: Jan 9, 18, 25, 29; Feb 8, 13, 27; Mar 1, 22; Apr 3; Sep 17
PRICE INCLUDES:
- 11 nights accommodation
- Sightseeing in up to 12 locations
- Services of an APT Tour Director and Driver
- The finest dining - a total of 19 meals
- Return airport transfers and porterage
- APT Signature Experiences
- Freedom of Choice Sightseeing
- Freedom of Choice Dining.
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
- Visa fees if applicable
- Meals and beverages not specifically indicated
- Optional excursions
- Items of a personal nature
- Airport transfers
- Gratuities
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.
17 Sep 2019
