6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch

Ziua 1 · Christchurch - Kaikōura or Akaroa (Whale Watching/Kayaking/Nature Cruise & Alpaca Farm) - Christchurch

1. 1

   Christchurch

   15 min

   Start this multi-day tour in relaxed and delightful style! Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Christchurch. Choose between a full-day tour to Kaikoura or Akaroa, each offering a unique experience based on your preferred activities.

2. 2

   Kaikoura

   5 ore

   Kaikōura, famed for its stunning coastal scenery where rugged mountains meet the Pacific Ocean, lies near a unique underwater canyon system that draws abundant marine life, including whales. Opt for a guided kayaking adventure alongside seals, sea birds, and possibly dolphins, or a whale-watching cruise to spot majestic sperm whales, humpbacks, or orcas while learning about their habitat.

3. 3

   Akaroa

   5 ore

   Akaroa, a charming French-inspired village, invites you to explore its beauty with a 2-hour nature cruise, uncovering its rich history and unique wildlife, including the rare Hector’s dolphins, the smallest dolphins in the world. Follow this with a visit to a charming alpaca farm for cuddly encounters with these adorable animals.

4. 4

   Christchurch

   15 min

   After your chosen day tour, we’ll return to Christchurch and drop you off at your hotel.

Optional ("With Hotels" Option): 4 to 5-star hotel with breakfast based on availability & season.

Ziua 2 · Christchurch–TranzAlpine Scenic Train–Arthur’s Pass National Park–Castle Hill–Lake Tekapo-Stargazing in Dark Sky Reserve

1. 1

   TranzAlpine Train

   2 ore Intrarea inclusă

   Start your day by being picked up from your accommodation in Christchurch. Board the TranzAlpine Scenic Train for a breathtaking ride through stunning landscapes. Disembark at Arthur’s Pass Railway Station, where you will be greeted and taken to your next destination.

2. 2

   Otira Viaduct Lookout

   15 min

   Enjoy the stunning views from the Otira Viaduct Lookout, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys

3. 3

   Arthur's Pass National Park

   2 ore

   Explore the natural beauty of Arthur’s Pass National Park with a leisurely walk along the Devil’s Punchbowl Walking Track or the Arthur’s Pass Walking Track. These tracks wind through lush native bush, offering glimpses of stunning waterfalls and providing a peaceful escape into the heart of the park. As you stroll, keep an eye out for native birdlife and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

4. 4

   Castle Hill

   o oră

   Visit Castle Hill and marvel at the photogenic landscape of stunning limestone rock formations. This location has served as a backdrop for famous Hollywood movies, showcasing its unique and breathtaking scenery. Capture the beauty of this natural wonder and immerse yourself while taking a short loop walk. Take a break at Lake Lyndon as we drive towards Lake Tekapo.

5. 5

   Oprirea 5

   1 h 15 min Intrarea inclusă

   Upon reaching Lake Tekapo, check into your hotel and recharge. In the evening, take advantage of the opportunity to participate in a stargazing activity in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the largest Dark Sky Reserves in the world. Lake Tekapo is renowned for its stunning night skies, free from light pollution, offering a breathtaking view of the stars. This experience is perfect for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone looking to marvel at the beauty of the universe.

Optional ("With Hotels" Option): 4 to 5-star hotel with breakfast based on availability & season.

Ziua 3 · Lake Tekapo – Lake Pukaki – Aoraki Mount Cook - Scenic Helicopter Ride – Lindis Pass – Queenstown

1. 1

   Lake Tekapo

   30 min

   Start another beautiful day with a pickup from your hotel in Lake Tekapo. Visit the renowned ‘Church of the Good Shepherd’ and take in its picturesque setting against the backdrop of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps. Enjoy a brief, leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Tekapo.

2. 2

   Lake Pukaki

   30 min

   Visit Lake Pukaki, a stunning glacier-fed alpine lake known for its mesmerizing turquoise waters. Marvel at the beauty of this natural wonder as you take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak.

3. 3

   Aoraki/Mt. Cook

   3 h 15 min

   The drive towards Mount Cook offers awe-inspiring views. Upon reaching Mount Cook, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing scenery. Opt for the Hooker Valley Track, featuring famous swing bridges, and catch a glimpse of ice at Hooker Lake. Alternatively, choose the Tasman Glacier Walks for a different perspective. Look out for the kea, the world's only alpine parrot.

4. 4

   Oprirea 4

   30 min Intrarea inclusă

   It's time to embark on a scenic helicopter ride. Soar above the stunning valleys and peaks of Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park in one of the modern helicopters. Experience breathtaking views of Aoraki Mount Cook and the surrounding snow-capped ranges as you fly. Relax and enjoy this unique experience with onboard commentary from pilot.

5. 5

   Oprirea 5

   15 min

   Pass through Lindis Pass on your way to Queenstown. Stop at Lindis Pass Summit Lookout to enjoy endless vistas of mountains. Upon arrival in Queenstown, check in to your accommodation and prepare for the adventures that await in this vibrant lakeside city.

Optional ("With Hotels" Option): 4 to 5-star hotel with breakfast based on availability & season.

Ziua 4 · Queenstown Explore (Queenstown Gardens, Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown Wharf, Jet Boating & Skyline Gondola with Luge Rides)

1. 1

   Queenstown

   4 ore

   Start your beautiful day in Queenstown with a pickup from your hotel. Visit the famous Queenstown Gardens, located on a picturesque peninsula surrounded by Lake Wakatipu. These gardens offer a peaceful retreat with stunning views. After exploring the gardens, take a leisurely stroll through the streets of central Queenstown to experience the city's cheerful vibes. Relax by the shores of Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand's longest lake. After this moment of calmness, prepare yourself to experience the power of twin V8 engines as you jet boat down the Kawarau or Shotover River. Reaching speeds of up to 95 kmph, enjoy the adrenaline rush with multiple 360-degree spins.

2. 2

   Oprirea 2

   4 ore Intrarea inclusă

   After jet boating, there's more to enjoy. Take a ride on the Queenstown Gondola, which is believed to be the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere. Upon reaching the top, you'll be treated to spectacular views of The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Walter and Cecil Peak, and, of course, Queenstown itself. Spend quality time at the top exploring the area, or engaging in fun activities like thrilling luge rides and open-air chairlifts. Watch the sunset from this vantage point. Afterwards, take a return ride on the Gondola back down, where you will be picked up and dropped off at your hotel to relax and recharge for another epic day, exploring Milford Sound.

Optional ("With Hotels" Option): 4 to 5-star hotel with breakfast based on availability & season.

Ziua 5 · Queenstown - Milford Sound Cruise or Doubtful Sound Cruise - Te Anau

1. 1

   Queenstown

   15 min

   Start this unforgettable day with a pickup from your Queenstown hotel. Choose between a full-day tour to Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, both located in Fiordland National Park, each showcasing the stunning beauty of New Zealand’s fiords in their own distinct way.

2. 2

   Milford Sound

   5 ore

   Enjoy the scenic drive towards Milford Sound, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Take advantage of scenic stops and nature walks along the way to capture the beauty of the landscape. Upon reaching Milford Sound, embark on a cruise to experience the stunning beauty of the fiord up close. Marvel at the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife that call this area home.

3. 3

   Oprirea 3

   7 h 30 min

   Begin your journey with a peaceful cruise across Lake Manapouri, followed by a scenic coach ride over Wilmot Pass, offering spectacular views of untouched rainforest and alpine scenery. Upon arrival at Doubtful Sound, board a cruise to explore the vast, remote fiord known for its deep stillness and dramatic landscapes. Surrounded by towering peaks, hidden waterfalls, and native wildlife, the experience feels truly immersive and untouched.

4. 4

   Te Anau

   15 min

   Enjoy the drive back to Te Anau and end the day filled with beautiful memories as you check in to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Optional ("With Hotels" Option): 4 to 5-star hotel with breakfast based on availability & season.

Ziua 6 · Te Anau Glowworm Caves - Queenstown (Kiwi Park or Private Hot Pool Soak) - Optional Flight to Auckland or Christchurch

1. 1

   Te Anau

   3 ore

   Be picked up from your hotel in Te Anau. Prepare for the famous Te Anau Glowworm Cave tour. Explore the fully guided underground caves and marvel at the thousands of glowworms illuminating the darkness like a starry sky. These glowworms, known as Arachnocampa luminosa, are unique to New Zealand and are found exclusively in the country's caves. They create a mesmerizing display as they emit a soft blue-green light, creating a magical atmosphere. The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a truly enchanting experience. Later, sit back and enjoy the scenic drive to Queenstown, taking in the stunning landscapes along the way.

2. 2

   Queenstown

   2 h 30 min

   Choose to experience either the unique Kiwi Park or a relaxing hot pool.

   Kiwi Park: Experience the wonder of NZ's unique wildlife at the Kiwi Park. Get up close to the iconic kiwi bird, discover the ancient tuatara, a fascinating reptile that has existed since the time of the dinosaurs, along with a variety of other native species, in a natural and immersive environment. Know the park's conservation efforts and the importance of preserving NZ's precious biodiversity.

   Private Hot Pool Soak: Relax at one of the most popular hot pools in NZ — a serene retreat perched above the Shotover River. Soak in a private cedar-lined hot tub while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and river below. This tranquil experience offers the perfect balance of luxury and nature.

   It's time to say goodbye as we drop you off in Queenstown. You can either start another adventure or catch your optional departure flight to Auckland or Christchurch. May the memories never fade.