5-Day South Island Tour: Southern Highlights & Milford Sound 

Christchurch to Queenstown : Depart Christchurch and travel across the Canterbury Plains on a small-group, fully guided journey through New Zealand’s iconic South Island landscapes. Stop at the stunning Lake Tekapo to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and enjoy lakeside walks and photo stops framed by the Southern Alps. Continue into Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park to experience dramatic alpine scenery, including short scenic walks, views of New Zealand’s highest peak, and an included lunch surrounded by mountain vistas. Visit the Tasman Glacier lookout for unforgettable photo opportunities.

Included Activity: Christchurch to Queenstown via Aoraki-Mount Cook National Park & Tekapo with Cheeky Kiwi (Lunch Included)

Queenstown: Known in Māori as Tāhuna, Queenstown is home to many adrenaline-inducing activities. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, this alpine town has very distinct seasons, and most adventure activities can be accessed year-round. Queenstown is famous for jet boating, bungy jumping, rafting, skydiving, paragliding, and even indoor adventure experiences. For an unforgettable rush, head out on the Shotover Jet, dive off the Nevis Bungy, free-fall on the Canyon Swing, or zip line from the Gondola.

While arguably the brightest gem in New Zealand’s crown, Queenstown offers far more than an action-packed getaway. For a slower pace, enjoy hiking trails, biking trails, guided tours, boat cruises, scenic flights, or spa and wellness experiences. Stroll along the lakefront, dine at al fresco eateries, and soak up the local atmosphere. Take a ride on the iconic TSS Earnslaw steamship, or board the Skyline Gondola for sweeping views of the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu.

Pack a picnic and enjoy summer sightseeing at Coronet Peak, just 20 minutes from central Queenstown. Ride the Peak Gondola, explore mountain hiking trails, or set off on scenic bike rides. In winter, Queenstown transforms into a world-class alpine destination, offering skiing, snowboarding, and a wide range of après-ski activities, alongside excellent bars, restaurants, and opportunities to relax and unwind.

Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge or similar (Alternative accommodations can be arranged upon request.)

Meals Included: Lunch

Blue Peaks Lodge offers well-equipped self-contained rooms with a fantastic location overlooking Queenstown and is just an easy five-minute walk to the Queenstown lakefront.

Explore Queenstown

Queenstown, known in Māori as Tāhuna, is celebrated as New Zealand’s adventure capital, yet it offers far more than a fast-paced, adrenaline-filled escape. Set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and framed by the dramatic Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is rich in scenic beauty, history, and world-class dining. From scenic lakeside strolls to longer hiking and biking trails, Queenstown caters to every pace and interest.

Wander through the tranquil Queenstown Gardens, challenge yourself on the Ben Lomond Walkway or Queenstown Hill Walking Track, or take the Queenstown Gondola 450 metres up to Bob’s Peak for sweeping panoramic views. Cruise across the lake aboard the iconic 100-year-old TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak Station for a farm tour and dinner, then return to the waterfront to enjoy al fresco cafés, the famous Fergburger, or sweet treats from Patagonia Chocolates.

Optional Activity: Shotover Jet Canyon Jet Boat Ride

Shotover Jet is the only company permitted to operate in the Shotover River Canyons. It's a thrilling ride! Skim past rocky outcrops at close range in your Shotover Jet 'Big Red', as you twist and turn through the narrow canyons at breathtaking speeds. And a major highlight - hold tight for the world-famous Shotover Jet full 360-degree spins!

Optional Activity: Shotover Jet Canyon Jet Boat Ride

Hop aboard the Skyline Gondola - the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! From which you can take in the awe-inspiring views of this spectacular landscape. Sit back and relax as you enjoy panoramic views of The Remarkables, Walter Peak, Cecil Peak, Coronet Peak and the magnificent Lake Wakatipu.

Optional Activity:

Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience: a delicious barbeque lunch and a farm tour in a stunning lakeside setting. First, take a scenic cruise from Queenstown to Walter Peak High Country Farm on board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw, one of the last remaining fully functional coal-fired passenger ships in the southern hemisphere.
Disembark and take in the picturesque shores of the station. Relax on the lakeside terrace at the Colonel's Homestead Restaurant and savor the aromas of the best local produce being cooked on the grill. The seasonal menu has plenty to choose from, including salads, vegetables, and succulent meat, with plenty of delicious dietaries on offer as well. Finish your meal with a scrumptious dessert before joining an entertaining farm demonstration or exploring the beautiful lakeside gardens.

Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge or similar (Alternative accommodations can be arranged upon request.)

Blue Peaks Lodge offers well-equipped self-contained rooms with a fantastic location overlooking Queenstown and is just an easy five-minute walk to the Queenstown lakefront.

Included Activity: Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Tour from Queenstown  (Includes Lunch)

Departing from Queenstown, sit back and relax aboard a luxury glass-roofed coach to enjoy a relaxing trip along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Te Anau. The coach driver provides an informative commentary and plenty of photo opportunities. After a morning tea break in Te Anau, the coach continues along the spectacular Milford Road. On reaching Piopiotahi-Milford Sound, board your vessel for a leisurely cruise in the fiord. The cruise provides excellent viewing opportunities, and plenty of time is available to enjoy waterfalls, rainforests, mountains, and wildlife. Rain or shine, every day in Piopiotahi-Milford Sound will leave you in awe.

Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge or similar (Alternative accommodations can be arranged upon request.)
Meals Included: Lunch

Blue Peaks Lodge offers well-equipped self-contained rooms with a fantastic location overlooking Queenstown and is just an easy five-minute walk to the Queenstown lakefront.

Queenstown to Franz Josef via Wānaka Small Group Tour with Cheeky Kiwi (Lunch Included)
Departing from Queenstown, this scenic journey includes a stop at the historic Cardrona Hotel, famous for its rustic charm and mountain scenery. In Wānaka, capture the iconic photo of the Wānaka Tree with Mt Aspiring and the Southern Alps as your backdrop. Continue along the Clutha River, stopping at Lake Hāwea, Thunder Creek Falls, and Ship Creek, where lush rainforest meets the rugged coastline. The day concludes in Franz Josef, passing glacial rivers and the stunning Lake Matheson, a true photographer’s paradise.

Franz Josef
Franz Josef Glacier, known in Māori as Ko Roimata o Hine Hukatere (The Tears of the Ice Maiden), is one of the world’s rare glaciers that descends from alpine heights into a temperate rainforest. Highlights include scenic glacier flights, heli-hiking experiences, and easy-access glacier viewpoints just a short drive from the village. Surrounding forest and alpine walking tracks, along with a range of adventure activities, make Franz Josef a standout destination on New Zealand’s wild West Coast.

Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites (Alternative accommodations can be arranged upon request.)
Meals Included: Lunch

Punga Grove is right in the heart of Franz Josef Glacier village, offering stylish accommodation in a beautiful rainforest setting.

Franz Josef to Greymouth Train Station with Hokitika Scenic Tours
Head north from Franz Josef through to the historic gold mining region of Hokitika. Known for its Pounamu (New Zealand Greenstone), this seaside town has a rich history dating back to the 1860’s. Continue on to Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast and the starting point for the next leg of your journey: the TranzAlpine Scenic Train.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch
Considered one of the world's great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch. Travel across the South Island from the west to the east coast through Arthur's Pass National Park. From the comfort of your carriage, see lush beech forests, deep river valleys, and the spectacular peaks of the Southern Alps. Descend to the windswept Canterbury Plains before arriving in the city of Christchurch.