SOUTH ISLAND EXPERIENCE

DAY 1 Wednesday 27th July 2022

CHRISTCHURCH (D)

Kia Ora and Welcome to Christchurch! Your guide will welcome you to Christchurch and depending on your arrival time, will take you on a tour of the colourful and inspiring city that mixes old England with pop and new age architecture and art. This evening enjoy a group arrival dinner to get to know your leader and fellow travellers.

Accommodation: Your own room at Towers on the Park or similar

DAY 2 Thursday 28th July 2022

FRANZ JOSEF (B)

In the morning you go on board the Tranz Alpine Express for one of the most beautiful train trips in the world. In comfortable compartments with large windows you can completely relax and take in the scenery from the East coast over the Arthur’s Pass to the West coast of New Zealand’s South Island. On board you will receive breakfast, so sit back, eat and enjoy the breath-taking views! Arrive in the largest settlement of the West Coast, Greymouth, in the early afternoon, where means of transport are changed and your guide greets you again, ready to continue to the glacier region. As a natural weather barrier, the high mountain range of the Southern Alps is responsible for the high precipitation in this area. Above snow level, large ice masses accumulate, which turn into fast-flowing glaciers. The Franz Josef and the Fox glacier push down to about 300m above sea level—unique in temperate climates. In the early evening you reach your accommodation in Franz Josef.

Accommodation: Your own room at Rainforest Retreat Franz Josef or similar

DAY 3 Friday 29th July 2022

WANAKA (B)

In the morning you have the option to take a helicopter flight over the glacier, even landing amongst this alpine wonderland (optional extra). You will experience a typical glacier landscape with washed out glacier beds, gravel terraces and boulders formed by ice. Depending on time, we can walk to Lake Matheson, an easy walk which provides us with an excellent mountain reflection on its calm water. We continue our tour and reach Westland National Park, a World Heritage Park. Here we undertake a bush walk and reach a seldom-visited beach which was once joined part of Gondwanaland. Your tour guide will explain the different species of native trees such as Rimu, Kahikatea and Beech. The Hapuku Estuary Walk is board walked, and panels provide information on flora and fauna. We continue via Haast Pass towards Wanaka, reaching the Aspiring National Park which offers us stunning views of the surrounding snowy peaks and the glacier lakes Hawea and Wanaka. In Wanaka you will see Wanaka’s most photographed tree before checking in to your hotel.

Accommodation: Your own room at Wanaka Hotel or similar

DAY 4 Saturday 30th July 2022

ARROWTOWN – QUEENSTOWN (B/L)

Today, road conditions permitting, we will traverse the Crown Range. Here we will stop at the popular Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand’s oldest and most iconic hotels. Here we will enjoy lunch. Thereafter, we travel on to Arrowtown, another picture book pioneer town. With its tree-lined avenues, it is a far cry from the hustle and bustle of Queenstown. But it wasn’t always like this – gold was discovered here in 1861 and as a result, thousands of goldminers flocked to Arrowtown from all over the world, including a great many people from China. Today in Arrowtown you can still see remnants of this era—there are a fascinating collection of mining cottages straight out of the last century. From Arrowtown, we continue on to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital!
Special Information: Should we not be able to drive the Crown Range due to weather, we will instead drive an alternative route to Queenstown, stopping at a winery for lunch.

Accommodation: Your own room at Heartland Hotel Queenstown or similar

DAY 5 Sunday 31st July 2022  

QUEENSTOWN (B)

An early morning start will see you on your way to Te Anau, the gateway to the Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound. Situated on the west coast of the South Island, Milford Sound is a fusion of spectacular natural features with amazing visual cues around every corner. Described by Rudyard Kipling as the “eighth wonder of the world”, Milford Sound was carved by glaciers during the Ice Age. The fiord’s cliffs rise vertically from the dark waters, mountain peaks scrape the sky, and waterfalls cascade downwards, some as high as 1000 metres. When it rains in Milford Sound, and it often does, those waterfalls multiply with magnificent effect. Arriving at the wharf, you will transfer to a boat to enjoy a cruise in this beautiful environment. After your cruise you will return by coach to Queenstown.

Accommodation: Your own room at Heartland Hotel Queenstown or similar

DAY 6 Monday 1st August 2022

QUEENSTOWN (B)

Today enjoy a free day in Queenstown with plenty on offer. Speak to your guide for assistance in booking in activities or simply take to the streets and explore. With so much to see and do in Queenstown, you’ll be spoiled for choice!

Accommodation: Your own room at Heartland Hotel Queenstown or similar

DAY 7 Tuesday 2nd August 2022    

MOUNT COOK (B)

Today we travel from Queenstown to the Mt Cook National Park, a unique environment of different alpine plants and flowers set to the panoramic view of New Zealand’s highest peak, Mt Cook (3754m), also known as Aoraki in the Maori language. The park is correspondingly spectacular, featuring the Tasman glacier, over 300 species of plants including the delicate Mt Cook lily, and many fine walks and hikes. Blessed with a marvellous view of the surrounding peaks, we overnight in Mt Cook Village. Enjoy this alpine village which is absolutely spectacular in winter!

Accommodation: Your own room at Mount Cook Lodge & Motels or similar

DAY 8 Wednesday 3rd August 2022

CHRISTCHURCH (B)

Today you travel down from Aoraki over Lake Tekapo to Christchurch. At Lake Tekapo you will see beautiful turquoise waters contrasting with the deep mountains in the background. On the shores of Lake Tekapo, you will visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, a picturesque vantage point for the Southern Alps.

Accommodation: Your own room at Towers on the Park or similar

DAY 9 Thursday 4th August 2022

KAIKOURA (B/D)

Today your guide drives you up the coast to the beautiful coastal town of Kaikoura, the perfect place for marine life encounters and coastal walks. Kaikoura is also a great place to eat crayfish. In fact, in Te Reo, kai means food and koura means crayfish. Kaikoura’s environment is truly spectacular—the village is caught between the rugged Seaward Kaikoura Range and the Pacific Ocean. In winter, the mountains are covered with snow, adding to the drama of the landscape. Kaikoura’s special attraction is marine mammal encounters—whales, fur seals and dolphins live permanently in the coastal waters. Included for you is a whale watching experience. Every Whale Watch tour is a unique experience and the sightings vary—giant Sperm Whales are the stars of the show and year round residents, and a typical tour may encounter New Zealand Fur Seals, pods of Dusky Dolphins, and the endangered Wandering Albatross. Depending on the season, you may also see migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales. Afterwards, return back to Christchurch and enjoy a farewell dinner with your group.

Accommodation: Your own room at Towers on the Park or similar

DAY 10 Friday 5th August 2022

CHRISTCHURCH (B)

Today, your adventure in New Zealand comes to an end. Say goodbye to your travelling companions as you part ways. Or why not stay on in beautiful New Zealand? Otherwise, a group airport transfer will be available.

TOUR DATES: 27TH JULY – 5TH AUGUST 2022

TOUR PRICING: A$5,983 PLUS AIRFARES/TAXES

Towers on the Park CHC

Towers on the Park offers 34 rooms and comfortable modern accommodation with free Wi-Fi. All rooms receive daily servicing and include private off-street parking and access to the guest laundry.

Hagley Golf Course and Christchurch Botanic Gardens are just across the road from The Towers on the Park Hotel. It is a 20-minute stroll through Hagley Park to the Christchurch Casino.

Each studio and apartment includes a refrigerator and tea/coffee making facilities. Some accommodation also offers a microwave and ironing facilities. Each offers a private bathroom with a shower. Some units also have a spa bath.

Riccarton is a great choice for travellers interested in shopping, parks and relaxation.

Rainforest Retreat Franz Josef

Nestled amongst the Southern Alps close to Franz Josef Glacier and countless scenic spots, Rainforest is the perfect base to explore New Zealand’s Glacier Country and the wild West Coast.

Rainforest is located in Franz Josef Village close to the glacier of the same name on New Zealand’s West Coast, 5 hours drive from both Christchurch and Queenstown airports. Rainforest is committed to environmental stewardship and is proud to promote the Tiaki Promise.

Wanaka Hotel

Heartland Hotel Queenstown

With stunning views our friendly Swiss-style Heartland Hotel Queenstown brings visitors from all over the world. Access a range of leisure activities from bungy jumping to shopping from one of the best accommodation locations in Queenstown.

Heartland Hotel Queenstown has a distinctive design close to all the action in the bustling resort town. Even with the amazing views of the mountains and Lake Wakatipu you can still feel cosy and tucked away in these A-Line style chalets in the hills.

Mount Cook Lodge & Motels

If you thought Mount Cook was out of your budget, think again! There’s a friendly face at Mount Cook offering a great range of accommodation for today’s budget-conscious travellers. Whether you’re into hiking, want to get out on the glaciers, soar across the Southern Alps or relax in the bar with a game of pool – they’ve got you covered. And all for a fraction of the price you’d expect to pay at one of New Zealand’s most amazing destinations.

The Lodge provides quality room options to suit all budgets and tastes including ensuite bathrooms, quality linen, refrigerator and a patio or balcony so you can soak up the stunning mountain views. All motel units include kitchenettes, ensuite bathrooms, car parking and an outdoor patio area so you can soak up the stunning mountain views.

Chill out in the Chamois Bar & Grill, a favourite of travellers and locals alike. Enjoy pub style meals at great prices then party till late, play pool or watch the game on the sports screen. The bar features a beer garden and BBQ area. Internet kiosks are available in the building.

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

Franz Josef Glacier (Kā Roimata ō Hine Hukatere) is one of the steepest glaciers in New Zealand, descending from its origins high in the Southern Alps deep into the lush native rainforest of Westland’s National Park. It also moves faster than your average glacier, with the main ice fall capturing speeds of up to five metres. This creates some truly incredible features in the glacier such as ice caves, tunnels, seracs and crevasses; all of which are constantly changing and evolving so no two days are ever the same.

QUEENSTOWN

In the heart of the Southern Alps, with unrivalled alpine scenery, snow-capped mountains and fresh mountain air, Queenstown is New Zealand’s home of winter. Whether you have an appetite for adventure, mountains and fresh air; or are keen to enjoy a delicious meal and fine wine beside roaring fire, you will be well catered for. Get away from the everyday and escape to Queenstown.

Each year from early June onwards, the region transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting snow sports enthusiasts from around the world with its incredible lake and alpine scenery, crisp blue-sky days and easy access to some of New Zealand’s finest ski and snowboard terrain accompanied by a vibrant après ski scene. Queenstown is big enough to offer a wide range of accommodation, activities, four ski areas, events, eateries, and bars—yet small enough to make you feel like you belong.

MOUNT COOK/AORAKI

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is home of the highest mountains and the longest glaciers. It is alpine in the purest sense – with skyscraping peaks, glaciers and permanent snow fields, all set under a star-studded sky.

According to Ngāi Tahu legend, Aoraki and his three brothers were the sons of Rakinui, the Sky Father. While on a sea voyage, their canoe overturned on a reef. When the brothers climbed on top of their canoe, the freezing south wind turned them to stone. The canoe became the South Island (Te Waka o Aoraki); Aoraki and his brothers became the peaks of the Southern Alps.

Although Aoraki Mount Cook encompasses 23 peaks over 3000 metres high, it is very accessible. State Highway 80 leads to Aoraki/Mt Cook Village which is situated beside scenic Lake Pukaki and provides a comfortable base for alpine activities. Far from city lights, the stargazing here is magnificent – Aoraki Mount Cook National Park forms the majority of New Zealand’s only International Dark Sky Reserve.

CHRISTCHURCH

Christchurch is the city of exploration, where urban regeneration and heritage thrive. The city is constantly evolving, always giving locals and visitors something new to explore. Expect street art and innovative projects, a bustling hospitality scene and established green spaces. Christchurch is the newest city in the world, and it’s time the world rediscovered its secrets.

The central city is filled with cutting-edge architecture alongside some of the oldest buildings in New Zealand. The Avon River intersects the city, bringing a natural landscape to the urban environment. Christchurch is the basecamp for South Island exploration, with the Banks Peninsula within reach, as well as the stunning Southern Alps and famed Canterbury Plains.

The surrounding Canterbury region offers visitors unforgettable journeys and picturesque towns, zen-like retreats and thrill-seeking opportunities. Escape to Hanmer Springs for a thermal soak, or north to Kaikōura to encounter the local wildlife. Everything New Zealand has to offer can be found here.

Tour Inclusions:

• Two’s a Crowd Tour Host
• 9 nights’ accommodation
• Solo room – always!
• Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
• All sightseeing, guided tours and entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary

Tour Exclusions:

• Travel Insurance
• International/domestic flights to the start/end of the tour
• Expenses of a personal nature, such as laundry, taxis, souvenirs and phone calls
• Meals and drinks not included in the itinerary
• Pre- and post-tour accommodation (we can assist)
• Visa costs (if applicable)
• Any tours listed as “Optional Tours” (and are subject to change, depending on weather and schedule changes)
• Gratuities (optional)

TOUR DATES: 27TH JULY – 5TH AUGUST 2022

TOUR PRICING: A$5,983 PLUS AIRFARES/TAXES

Towers on the Park CHC

Towers on the Park offers 34 rooms and comfortable modern accommodation with free Wi-Fi. All rooms receive daily servicing and include private off-street parking and access to the guest laundry.

Hagley Golf Course and Christchurch Botanic Gardens are just across the road from The Towers on the Park Hotel. It is a 20-minute stroll through Hagley Park to the Christchurch Casino.

Each studio and apartment includes a refrigerator and tea/coffee making facilities. Some accommodation also offers a microwave and ironing facilities. Each offers a private bathroom with a shower. Some units also have a spa bath.

Riccarton is a great choice for travellers interested in shopping, parks and relaxation.

Rainforest Retreat Franz Josef

Nestled amongst the Southern Alps close to Franz Josef Glacier and countless scenic spots, Rainforest is the perfect base to explore New Zealand’s Glacier Country and the wild West Coast.

Rainforest is located in Franz Josef Village close to the glacier of the same name on New Zealand’s West Coast, 5 hours drive from both Christchurch and Queenstown airports. Rainforest is committed to environmental stewardship and is proud to promote the Tiaki Promise.

Wanaka Hotel

Heartland Hotel Queenstown

With stunning views our friendly Swiss-style Heartland Hotel Queenstown brings visitors from all over the world. Access a range of leisure activities from bungy jumping to shopping from one of the best accommodation locations in Queenstown.

Heartland Hotel Queenstown has a distinctive design close to all the action in the bustling resort town. Even with the amazing views of the mountains and Lake Wakatipu you can still feel cosy and tucked away in these A-Line style chalets in the hills.

Mount Cook Lodge & Motels

If you thought Mount Cook was out of your budget, think again! There’s a friendly face at Mount Cook offering a great range of accommodation for today’s budget-conscious travellers. Whether you’re into hiking, want to get out on the glaciers, soar across the Southern Alps or relax in the bar with a game of pool – they’ve got you covered. And all for a fraction of the price you’d expect to pay at one of New Zealand’s most amazing destinations.

The Lodge provides quality room options to suit all budgets and tastes including ensuite bathrooms, quality linen, refrigerator and a patio or balcony so you can soak up the stunning mountain views. All motel units include kitchenettes, ensuite bathrooms, car parking and an outdoor patio area so you can soak up the stunning mountain views.

Chill out in the Chamois Bar & Grill, a favourite of travellers and locals alike. Enjoy pub style meals at great prices then party till late, play pool or watch the game on the sports screen. The bar features a beer garden and BBQ area. Internet kiosks are available in the building.

FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

Franz Josef Glacier (Kā Roimata ō Hine Hukatere) is one of the steepest glaciers in New Zealand, descending from its origins high in the Southern Alps deep into the lush native rainforest of Westland’s National Park. It also moves faster than your average glacier, with the main ice fall capturing speeds of up to five metres. This creates some truly incredible features in the glacier such as ice caves, tunnels, seracs and crevasses; all of which are constantly changing and evolving so no two days are ever the same.

QUEENSTOWN

In the heart of the Southern Alps, with unrivalled alpine scenery, snow-capped mountains and fresh mountain air, Queenstown is New Zealand’s home of winter. Whether you have an appetite for adventure, mountains and fresh air; or are keen to enjoy a delicious meal and fine wine beside roaring fire, you will be well catered for. Get away from the everyday and escape to Queenstown.

Each year from early June onwards, the region transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting snow sports enthusiasts from around the world with its incredible lake and alpine scenery, crisp blue-sky days and easy access to some of New Zealand’s finest ski and snowboard terrain accompanied by a vibrant après ski scene. Queenstown is big enough to offer a wide range of accommodation, activities, four ski areas, events, eateries, and bars—yet small enough to make you feel like you belong.

MOUNT COOK/AORAKI

Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is home of the highest mountains and the longest glaciers. It is alpine in the purest sense – with skyscraping peaks, glaciers and permanent snow fields, all set under a star-studded sky.

According to Ngāi Tahu legend, Aoraki and his three brothers were the sons of Rakinui, the Sky Father. While on a sea voyage, their canoe overturned on a reef. When the brothers climbed on top of their canoe, the freezing south wind turned them to stone. The canoe became the South Island (Te Waka o Aoraki); Aoraki and his brothers became the peaks of the Southern Alps.

Although Aoraki Mount Cook encompasses 23 peaks over 3000 metres high, it is very accessible. State Highway 80 leads to Aoraki/Mt Cook Village which is situated beside scenic Lake Pukaki and provides a comfortable base for alpine activities. Far from city lights, the stargazing here is magnificent – Aoraki Mount Cook National Park forms the majority of New Zealand’s only International Dark Sky Reserve.

CHRISTCHURCH

Christchurch is the city of exploration, where urban regeneration and heritage thrive. The city is constantly evolving, always giving locals and visitors something new to explore. Expect street art and innovative projects, a bustling hospitality scene and established green spaces. Christchurch is the newest city in the world, and it’s time the world rediscovered its secrets.

The central city is filled with cutting-edge architecture alongside some of the oldest buildings in New Zealand. The Avon River intersects the city, bringing a natural landscape to the urban environment. Christchurch is the basecamp for South Island exploration, with the Banks Peninsula within reach, as well as the stunning Southern Alps and famed Canterbury Plains.

The surrounding Canterbury region offers visitors unforgettable journeys and picturesque towns, zen-like retreats and thrill-seeking opportunities. Escape to Hanmer Springs for a thermal soak, or north to Kaikōura to encounter the local wildlife. Everything New Zealand has to offer can be found here.

Tour Inclusions:

• Two’s a Crowd Tour Host
• 9 nights’ accommodation
• Solo room – always!
• Meals as per itinerary (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
• All sightseeing, guided tours and entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary

Tour Exclusions:

• Travel Insurance
• International/domestic flights to the start/end of the tour
• Expenses of a personal nature, such as laundry, taxis, souvenirs and phone calls
• Meals and drinks not included in the itinerary
• Pre- and post-tour accommodation (we can assist)
• Visa costs (if applicable)
• Any tours listed as “Optional Tours” (and are subject to change, depending on weather and schedule changes)
• Gratuities (optional)