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15 Day Ultimate South Island
Ultimate Coach Tour starting in Wellington and finishing in Christchurch
Countries Visited: New Zealand 
Tour Type: Ultimate
Tour Duration: 15 Days (14 Nights)
From: Wellington to Christchurch
Tour Code: XV
Operator: Kirra
from AU $3,455 pp
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Tour Description

Breathtaking scenery you will just have to see to believe on this 15 Day Ultimate South Island coach holiday. From the snow capped Southern Alps in the South Island, impressive glaciers and stunning Milford Sound this coach tour showcases all the highlights the majestic South Island has to offer.

This popular 15 Day itinerary starts in Wellington and takes in the whole of the South Island visiting Nelson, the West Coast, Queenstown, Milford Sound and Dunedin including activities and locations not normally visited on a coach touring holiday. For the more intrepid traveller we have included the Hollyford Track Guided Walk as an option in lieu of the 3 night stay in Queenstown. During the course of your tour you will have free time in Nelson, Franz Josef Glacier, Queenstown and Dunedin so you can relax or choose one of the many diverse optional excursions available.

Tour Highlights:

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Day
1
Arrive Wellington
Welcome to New Zealand! We will greet you at the airport, with transport waiting to take you to your hotel. Stay: Bay Plaza Hotel
Day
2
Wellington – Blenheim – Nelson
Join the Interislander Ferry for the scenic cruise to Picton, enjoy spectacular views of Wellington and the sheltered waters of Queen Charlotte Sound, then on to Montana Winery for a tasting and winery tour. From this renowned wine region it’s a fascinating drive to Nelson noted for its arts and crafts. Stay: Leisure Lodge (2 nights)
Day
3
Nelson or Abel Tasman National Park
Today is at your leisure, take the time to explore the shops and art galleries which make Nelson famous. If you would like to explore a little more your Coach Captain will happily assist with arranging activities for you. We recommend an optional day tour to the Abel Tasman National Park.
  Abel Tasman Day Trip Option
The Abel Tasman National Park is an amazing part of New Zealand. With an abundance of wildlife and pristine waters you can choose from many walking options. You board a launch that takes you along the coastline, passing icons such as split apple rock and a possible local seal or two. Additional cost AU $120 per person
Day
4
Nelson – Greymouth
Lush farmlands then forest covered ranges to the rugged Buller Gorge – a spectacular scenic drive. Visit Westport and the coast near Cape Foulwind, possibly lunch at the award winning Beach House Cafe and south to explore the Pancake rocks at Punakaiki. At Greymouth visit Jade Boulder Gallery to see native jade, mined in remote alpine valleys crafted into fine jewellery. Stay: Hotel Ashley
Day
5
Greymouth – Franz Josef Glacier
Hugging the coastline of the West Coast, as you come closer your view will be dominated by the towering Southern Alps, highlighting your journey to Franz Josef. Stay: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef
Day
6
Franz Josef – Wanaka
Follow the rugged coastline then inland across the Alps and the Haast Pass to the impressive bushlands of the Aspiring National Park. On arrival in Wanaka you’ll have a choice of activities between a launch cruise that will take you across the lake to Stevensons Island, a nature reserve, then an informative bush walk with refreshments.
Alternatively if adrenalin is what you are after then experience an exhilarating jet boat ride along the Clutha River.. Stay: Grand Mercure Oakridge Resort
Day
7
Wanaka – Queenstown
Drive through a picturesque region that has a fascinating history of early settlement and goldmining for a late morning arrival into the ever-popular resort of Queenstown. Dinner tonight is at the spectacular Skyline Restaurant (entire group). Stay: Rydges Hotel (3 nights)
  3 Day Hollyford Track Walk Option
This 3 day/2 night walk is a spectacular journey, which takes in diverse scenery from dense forest to untouched beaches. The highlights are the walking back in time through beech forests, crossing Fiordlands longest swing bridge, jet boating along the Hollyford River before finishing with a scenic flight into Milford Sound to rejoin your group on Day 10. Additional cost AU $1,330 per person, twin share. Read More>
Day
8
to
9
Queenstown At Leisure
The next two days are at your leisure whilst in the adventure capital. You can either sit back, relax or your Coach Captain is available to assist with any optional activities you would like to do. (B/D) (Dinner on Day 8 is not included allowing the opportunity to dine at a restaurant of your choice.)
Day
10
Queenstown – Milford Sound
Follow the lake to Kingston, across fertile farmlands to Fiordland. Visit moody Lake Manapouri then Lake Te Anau. Follow the Eglinton Valley, native forests, lakes, waterfalls and towering mountains. At The Divide collect the Greenstone Trek group and travel through the Hollyford Valley and Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound. Board the Milford Mariner for an overnight cruise – an undoubted highlight. Stay: Milford Mariner
Day
11
Milford Sound – Dunedin
Wake to the sounds of silence in a pristine world with a glimpse every so often of a passing seal or penguin. You return to shore to follow the rugged and remote mountains as they change to lush green countryside as you approach Dunedin, the ‘Edinburgh of the South.’ Tonight prior to dinner you will be treated to a traditional Scottish Haggis Ceremony. Stay: Cargills Hotel (2 nights)
Day
12
Dunedin
A day to enjoy at your leisure with a multitude of optional activities available. A Monarch Wildlife Cruise, Natures Wonders Tour (both featuring penguins, seals and birdlife), the Taieri Gorge Railway, a Citibus Newtons Tour, fascinating Larnach Castle or Tour the Cadbury Factory or Speights Brewery. Have fun!
Day
13
Dunedin – Mt Cook
This morning visit Olveston House, Dunedin’s majestic historic home. Travel north stopping to view the unusual Moeraki Boulders then explore Oamaru. Follow the Waitaki Valley, passing the hydro lakes until you reach Mt Cook National Park and village, amidst New Zealand’s highest mountains. This afternoon visit the Tasman Glacier where you will be amazed by the floating icebergs in the nearby lake. Stay: Hermitage Hotel
Day
14
Mt Cook – Christchurch
Visiting Lake Tekapo, view the Church of the Good Shepherd and Collie Dog memorial. Continue onto Burkes Pass to the Canterbury Plains and Christchurch for a city and surrounds tour. Stay: Pavilions Hotel
Day
15
Depart Christchurch
Today is goodbye to all your new found friends before you make your homeward journey. You will be transferred to Christchurch International Airport to join your flight home.

15 Day Ultimate South Island Reviews

Tour reviews from past clients of Global Journeys. 1 Reviews, Average Rating 5.0 of 5.
The 15 day tour was everything I hoped for and more! I was astounded by the the changing landscape and the extraordinary beauty of the South Island. I found the coach really comfortable and Trevor, our driver very competant and helpful. To anyone who is thinking about a tour of NZ, I would say 'stop thinking and just do it! You will never regret the decision.' From my experience earlier this year I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this tour as the way to go.
Heather Spicer (Australia)
Tour Date 09/04/2011

Tour Prices

Tour prices are per person. Please request a quote for tour availability.

EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER*

2012 Season Sale! Save up to $290 per couple. Exclusive to Global Journeys. Deposit this month only to qualify! Subject to availability at the time of booking.

START DATE END DATE BROCHURE
(Twin Share)
BROCHURE
(Single)
OUR
SAVINGS
OUR
PRICE
13 Oct 2012 27 Oct 2012 AU $3,600 AU $4,825 Save $145 AU $3,455
10 Nov 2012 24 Nov 2012 AU $3,600 AU $4,825 Save $145 AU $3,455
24 Nov 2012 08 Dec 2012 AU $3,600 AU $4,825 Save $145 AU $3,455
22 Dec 2012 05 Jan 2013 AU $3,600 AU $4,825 Save $145 AU $3,455
12 Jan 2013 26 Jan 2013 AU $3,600 AU $4,825 Save $145 AU $3,455
26 Jan 2013 09 Feb 2013 AU $3,600 AU $4,825 Save $145 AU $3,455
02 Feb 2013 16 Feb 2013 AU $3,600 AU $4,825 Save $145 AU $3,455
09 Feb 2013 23 Feb 2013 AU $3,600 AU $4,825 Save $145 AU $3,455
16 Feb 2013 02 Mar 2013 AU $3,600 AU $4,825 Save $145 AU $3,455
23 Feb 2013 09 Mar 2013 AU $3,600 AU $4,825 Save $145 AU $3,455
09 Mar 2013 23 Mar 2013 AU $3,600 AU $4,825 Save $145 AU $3,455
16 Mar 2013 30 Mar 2013 AU $3,600 AU $4,825 Save $145 AU $3,455
30 Mar 2013 13 Apr 2013 AU $3,600 AU $4,825 Save $145 AU $3,455

Note: The majority of departures above will proceed or are guaranteed to depart. We will outline the status of your departure date in your quote along with all applicable discounts and specials.

General Information

The information below relates to this itinerary only.

Tour Operator: Kirra Tours

Kirra ToursSee the best of New Zealand on a Kirra Tours escorted coach touring holiday. This is truly the very best way for you to see and enjoy all the wonderful scenery and activities New Zealand has to offer and we guarantee the value is unequalled. Choose from a wide range of coach tour itineraries showcasing the finest attractions and experiences that New Zealand has to offer.




Frequently Asked Questions

Will the coach be comfortable and modern?

All our touring coaches are ultra modern, superbly appointed and fully air-conditioned to ensure comfortable travel during the warmer summer months and heated to provide extra warmth during cooler periods. Large vista windows, armchair style seating, ample leg room, the latest in stereo and public address systems and air bag suspension all combine to ensure your travelling comfort. In addition, our vehicles are fastidiously maintained in our partner companies own workshop to ensure you have a safe and troublefree journey. Kirra Holidays Coach Captains are all allocated their own vehicles so take great pride in ensuring they are always superbly presented.

What documentation will I receive?

Once your tour is fully paid for, we will email your tour itinerary to you so you that have a copy on hand including your arrival instructions. This generally happens around 30-40 days out from your tour start date. On arrival in New Zealand you'll be met at the airport and you'll then receive a receive your travel kit including travel bag, ticket wallet, maps and itinerary.

What meals will be served on tour?

A typical breakfast will consist of a choice of cooked dishes such as bacon, eggs, sausages etc with tea/coffee toast and preserves. With the healthy eater in mind, breakfast also includes, fruit juices, cereals, fruit and often yogurt. A typical dinner will either be table service with selections from a 3 course menu or buffet style, offering an extensive choice to well satisfy both the discerning diner and largest appetite.

All tours, include the Maori Hangi and Concert in Rotorua and in Queenstown, either the “Taste of New Zealand” carvery dinner at the Skyline Restaurant or Earnslaw cruise with dinner in the "Colonel's Homestead Dinner" at Walter Peak high country sheep station.

Who travels on Kirra tours?

Your travelling companions are likely to be from any parts of the globe. Whilst predominantly Australian, they are likely to also be from the UK, Western Europe, the USA, Canada and many New Zealanders as well. Each year Kirra Tours identifies guests from between 35 and 40 countries which further enhance everyone's holiday experience and the establishment of friendships around the world.

How many other people will I be travelling with?

Depending on the tour you choose and the time of year you are travelling our group sizes can vary from fewer than 21 people up to 48 people, so there is a great opportunity to mingle and make new friends.

Do I need to tip?

Tipping is not normally expected in New Zealand. If you have been given exceptional service, tipping is certainly acceptable and the amount discretionary. Some restaurants may add a surcharge for weekends and/or public holidays, which will most likely be displayed on their menu.

What options do I have if I am travelling alone?

If you wish to share with another tour member you can advise Global Journeys at the time of booking. Kirra Tours believe that traveling solo doesn't have to cost you more. We will try to match you with someone of the same sex in order to avoid having to pay the single supplement. If we are not able to provide a suitable roommate, we will provide a single room at no extra cost.

Can I travel with children on Kirra tours?

Yes, Kirra will take care of the whole family when travelling with children 2-15 years of age.There is a reduction in the tour price depending on how many adults are travelling. We will outline the costs in your quote.

Where can I find out more information on Kirra?

We have a dedicated section on our website providing more detailed information on Kirra including more FAQ's on what you need to know before, during and after your travel; as well as information on what to expect on tour, and a comprehensive search facility to enable you to easily find more of their tours. Read more> (NB: This link will take you away from this tour itinerary page).


Airport Transfer Information

Free Airport Transfers

Kirra offers a hotel or airport transfer at the start and end of your tour, or in-conjunction with pre or post accommodation booked with Global Journeys & Kirra. All flight information must be given to Global Journeys at least 6 weeks prior to departure so that transfers can be booked. If you book your own pre or post accommodation then transfers cannot be included.


Terms & Conditions:

Yep, all the boring small print! We still recommend you read it all though, as no one likes surprises. Click here to read them now - they will open in a new window, or print them off to read over later with a cup of coffee!

 

Kirby O'Connor

Your Tour Consultant Will Be:

Kirby O'Connor
Aussie & Kiwi Specialist
Email: kirby@globaljourneys.com
Expertise: Australian & New Zealand Touring Specialist
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Abel Tasman National ParkFox GlacierLake WanakaMilford SoundMoeraki BouldersMt Cook
 
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