Christchurch: South Island Explorer Premier Escorted Vacation
- Duration
- 14 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 5,355
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
- 14 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 5,355
Itinerary View Trip Map
Arrive Christchurch
On arrival, be met at the airport and transfer to your hotel where you have the afternoon to relax. Enjoy Welcome Drinks and Dinner tonight.
| Meal Plan | Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Rydges Latimer Christchurch |
| Location | View map |
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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
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Christchurch, Mt Cook
Traverse the Canterbury plains to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo. This afternoon, choose your Freedom of Choice Sightseeing experience.
Signature Experience
Journey into Mt Cook National Park to view Australasia's highest mountain, Aoraki (Mt Cook).
Freedom of Choice Sightseeing
You may like to join a guided nature walk. Alternatively, during the summer months, board a MAC boat and discover icebergs on the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake. Perhaps visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, including a visit to the planetarium and a stargazing session with an astronomer.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
The Hermitage Aoraki Mount Cook |
| Location | View map |
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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
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Mt Cook, Dunedin
Set out along the shores of Lake Pukaki to Oamaru. Continue to Koekohe Beach to view the unusual spherical-shaped Moeraki Boulders. Arrive in Dunedin this afternoon and enjoy time at leisure before dinner.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Distinction Dunedin |
| Location | View map |
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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
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Dunedin, Te Anau
Wake up this morning in Dunedin, where you may begin your day with your choice of sightseeing activity. Afterwards, absorb the breathtaking scenery as you travel to the lakeside settlement of Te Anau.
Freedom of Choice Sightseeing
You may choose to visit Olveston House, or take a lovely ride on the Taieri Gorge Railway. Those who enjoy a beer may choose to visit Speight's Brewery. Alternatively, either discover an albatross colony, or take a wildlife tour along the spectacular Otago Peninsula.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Distinction Hotel and Villas Te Anau |
| Location | View map |
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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
Te Anau
Decide how to spend your day in Te Anau thanks to our Freedom of Choice activities on offer to you today. Perhaps you may like to explore an underground network of limestone caves, lit by thousands of glow worms. Alternatively, you may prefer to set off on a wilderness cruise on Doubtful Sound. Or, take an exciting jet boat ride along the Upper Waiau River.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown
Along Milford Road, wind down the Eglinton and Hollyford valleys, then travel through the Homer Tunnel to be met by the sight of Mitre Peak. After, travel to Queenstown.
Signature Experience
Continue to Milford Sound where you will cruise along the full length of this fiord deep within Fiordland National Park.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Millennium Hotel Queenstown |
| Location | View map |
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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
Queenstown
Today you can discover Queenstown your own way with the included Freedom of Choice sightseeing activities available. Later, choose where to dine.
Freedom of Choice Sightseeing
Movie buffs may like to visit key The Lord of the Rings filming locations. Meanwhile, thrillseekers may enjoy an exhilarating ride on the Shotover Jet Boat through the narrow Shotover River Canyons, a Skippers Canyon adventure or an exciting 4WD tour through the region. Others may prefer a leisurely cruise on Lake Wakatipu, a picturesque bike ride through the surrounding vineyards, or a wine tour.
Freedom of Choice Dining
Select from a number of restaurants during a Freedom of Choice Dining evening.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|
Queenstown
Immerse yourself in beautiful Queenstown with a full day at leisure. You may like to take a relaxing stroll along the tranquil shores of Lake Wakatipu, or take part in the thrill of a lifetime in this adventurous city.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Queenstown, Franz Josef Glacier
Skirt the shores of lakes Wanaka and Hawea. Check in to your eco-resort, before a special four-course dinner.
Signature Experience
Cross Haast Pass into Westland Tai Poutini National Park, home to the Franz Josef Glacier.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Te Waonui Forest Retreat |
| Location | View map |
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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
Travel through deep gorges, river valleys and across the Southern Alps all the way to Christchurch.
Signature Experience
Join New Zealand's famous TranzAlpine train and experience one of the world's greatest rail journeys.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Rydges Latimer Christchurch |
| Location | View map |
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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, Kaikoura, Blenheim
Follow the east coast to Kaikoura. Later, take in a special and unique Signature Experience.
Signature Experience
Traverse the Marlborough region to Blenheim, where you will savour New Zealand's finest flavours with a Highlights of Marlborough Dinner. Each dish showcases superb local artisan produce, with each dish perfectly paired to wines from this stunning region.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Scenic Hotel Marlborough Blenheim |
| Location | View map |
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Scenic Hotel Marlborough Blenheim
A recent multi-million dollar renovation has left this contemporary property sparkling with style and comfort. Located in the heart of sunny Marlborough, the hotel is just minutes walk from the centre of Blenheim and puts some of New Zealand's finest food and wine virtually on ...
A recent multi-million dollar renovation has left this contemporary property sparkling with style and comfort. Located in the heart of sunny Marlborough, the hotel is just minutes walk from the centre of Blenheim and puts some of New Zealand's finest food and wine virtually on your doorstep. Scenic Hotel Marlborough offers guests the ultimate in modern comfort and service. You're sure to feel refreshed with a visit to Scenic Hotel Marlborough.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Conference Facilities
- Internet Access
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Parking (for Self Park)
- Pool (s)
- Reception (24 hrs)
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Spa(Hot-tub)/Jacuzzi
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 5
Blenheim
Tailor your day with a choice of an included sightseeing option.
Freedom of Choice Sightseeing
Perhaps embark on a tour of the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, enjoy the sheer beauty of Marlborough Sounds during a greenshell mussel cruise, or choose to visit some of the region's best wineries.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Blenheim, Picton, Wellington
Traverse the stunning waters of Marlborough and Queen Charlotte sounds while taking in breathtaking surrounds. This afternoon, take part in a fascinating city sights tour of Wellington.
Signature Experience
Cruise across Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
InterContinental Wellington |
| Location | View map |
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InterContinental Wellington
Intercontinental Wellington is a modern luxury hotel perfect for leisure or business travellers. Located in the heart of the city and adjacent to the scenic harbour, it is the ideal base to explore the local businesses, shopping and cultural centres. There are 232 stylish rooms ...
Intercontinental Wellington is a modern luxury hotel perfect for leisure or business travellers. Located in the heart of the city and adjacent to the scenic harbour, it is the ideal base to explore the local businesses, shopping and cultural centres. There are 232 stylish rooms to choose from and several modern conveniences on site for you to enjoy.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Bellman/Porters
- Business Centre
- Concierge
- Conference Facilities
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Lounge(s)
- Massage Treatments
- Pool (s)
- Reception (24 hrs)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Secretarial Service
- Spa
- Spa(Hot-tub)/Jacuzzi
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
Depart Wellington
Your tour concludes today with a transfer to the airport.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
2019: Jan 9, 18, 25, 29; Feb 8, 13, 27; Mar 1, 22; Apr 3; Sep 17; Oct 5; Nov 9, 14, 30
2020: Jan 9, 18, 25, 29; Feb 8, 13, 29; Mar 21; Apr 2; Sep 19
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.
19 Sep 2020
