Southern Wonders: 7-Day South Island Scenic
$189,25/Person
Experience the very best of New Zealand’s South Island on this unforgettable 7-day scenic journey, combining vibrant cities, dramatic coastlines, alpine landscapes, wildlife encounters, and iconic film locations. From Christchurch’s cultural charm to the majestic fiords of Milford Sound and the adventure capital Queenstown, this tour is thoughtfully designed to balance sightseeing, nature, relaxation, and adventure—perfect for first-time visitors and nature lovers alike.
Highlights
- Christchurch city attractions & Antarctic experience
- Kaikōura coastal wildlife & optional whale watching
- Hanmer Springs alpine hot pools
- Moeraki Boulders & Oamaru heritage town
- Dunedin’s castles, waterfalls & dramatic coastline
- Milford Sound cruise through Fiordland National Park
- Queenstown adventures, Arrowtown & Gibbston Valley wine tasting
Included and Excluded
- Private vehicle with an experienced and knowledgeable driver/guide
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off within the city or agreed locations
- Flexible sightseeing stops as per the itinerary and time availability
- Bottled water during the tour
- Entry tickets or admission fees for any attractions or activities
- Charges for optional experiences such as cruises, adventure activities, or guided attractions
- Meals, snacks, and personal refreshments
- Accommodation and airfare
- Travel insurance
- Any activity not specifically mentioned in the inclusions
- Personal Expenses
Tour Plan
Day 1: Christchurch City Sightseeing
Highlights & Experiences
- Scenic ride on the Christchurch Gondola with panoramic views of Canterbury Plains & Southern Alps
- Interactive snow and penguin encounter at the International Antarctic Centre
- Relaxing stroll along the Avon River and visit to Riverside Market
- Coastal relaxation at Sumner Beach
- Photo stop at the iconic Cardboard Cathedral
- Overnight: Christchurch
Day 2: Christchurch → Kaikōura → Hanmer Springs
Highlights & Experiences
- Scenic coastal drive to Kaikōura
- Walk along Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway and visit the Seal Colony
- Optional whale-watching cruise (weather permitting)
- Alpine drive to Hanmer Springs
- Evening relaxation at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools
- Overnight: Hanmer Springs
Day 3: Hanmer Springs → Oamaru → Dunedin
Highlights & Experiences
- Explore the Victorian Precinct in Oamaru
- Visit the famous Moeraki Boulders
- Discover heritage architecture in Dunedin
- Photo stop at the historic Dunedin Railway Station
- Overnight: Dunedin
Day 4: Dunedin & Otago Peninsula
Highlights & Experiences
- Guided visit to Larnach Castle
- Scenic coastal drive to Nugget Point Lighthouse
- Explore cliffs and caves at Tunnel Beach
- Wildlife spotting and breathtaking ocean viewpoints
- Overnight: Dunedin
Day 5: Dunedin → Cromwell → Queenstown
Highlights & Experiences
- Travel through Central Otago landscapes via Cromwell
- Scenic orchard regions and historic bridge viewpoints
- Arrival in Queenstown
- Sunset lakeside walk along Lake Wakatipu
- Overnight: Queenstown
Day 6: Queenstown → Milford Sound → Queenstown
Highlights & Experiences
- Journey through Fiordland National Park
- Scenic stop in Te Anau
- Photo stops at Mirror Lakes, Eglinton Valley & waterfalls
- Scenic cruise at Milford Sound with wildlife spotting
- Overnight: Queenstown
Day 7: Queenstown, Arrowtown & Wine Experience
Highlights & Experiences
- Gondola ride with Skyline Queenstown
- Explore historic gold-mining village of Arrowtown
- Visit famous Lord of the Rings filming locations
- Wine tasting in Gibbston Valley featuring Central Otago Pinot Noir
- Optional adventure activities (bungy jumping, jet boating)
- Tour Ends in Queenstown
