Southern Heritage & Wildlife Trail: Queenstown to Kaikōura
Route: Queenstown • Dunedin • Oamaru • Lake Tekapo • Christchurch • Kaikōura
$189,25/Person
This journey blends dramatic landscapes with wildlife encounters and cultural heritage. From the Scottish charm of Dunedin to the penguins of Oamaru and the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, this tour offers a beautiful mix of scenery, history, and marine life before concluding in Kaikōura
Highlights
- Discover Dunedin’s historic architecture and visit the famous Otago Peninsula wildlife areas.
- Watch little blue penguins return to shore in Oamaru at sunset.
- Experience Lake Tekapo’s stunning turquoise waters and Dark Sky Reserve.
- Encounter whales or dolphins in Kaikōura, one of the best marine wildlife destinations in New Zealand.
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 – Queenstown to Dunedin
- Travel through Central Otago landscapes to Dunedin.
- Explore Baldwin Street and the historic railway station.
- Visit the Otago Peninsula for scenic coastal views
Day 2 – Dunedin to Oamaru
- Explore Moeraki Boulders along the coast.
- Visit Oamaru’s Victorian Precinct.
- Optional evening blue penguin viewing experience
Day 3 – Oamaru to Lake Tekapo
- Scenic drive inland to Lake Tekapo.
- Visit Church of the Good Shepherd.
- Optional stargazing experience in the evening.
Day 4 – Tekapo to Christchurch
- Stop at Lake Pukaki for Mount Cook views.
- Explore Christchurch city highlights.
Day 5 – Christchurch to Kaikōura
- Scenic coastal drive to Kaikōura.
- Optional whale watching cruise or dolphin encounter.
