Discover Top of the South Island

Have you travelled with Grand Pacific before and are now looking for a tour that’s a little bit different? Look no further than Grand Pacific's Top of the South Island itinerary.

Offered as both small group and mid-size coach holiday options, this itinerary promises unforgettable experiences as it visits several iconic regions of the South Island, each offering something different. Grand Pacific has designed this trip for travellers who enjoy the outdoors, love food and wine and are keen to get off the main roads and experience some of New Zealand’s native wildlife and natural beauty.

From dolphin spotting to wine tasting to fascinating walks, there is something for everyone. Choose the way you experience this journey, with 2 comfort styles on offer - Grand Pacific's Ultimate Small Group tour or the Signature Mid-Size Group tour.

Ultimate Top of the South Island

The Ultimate Small Group Touring experience is specifically tailored to provide a Business Class level of comfort, service and quality without compromise. Enjoy premium accommodation, fabulous cuisine and impeccable service on a small group tour to remember. Travel in style on Grand Pacific's state-of-the-art designed, purpose-built Ultimate Coach featuring 20 Business Class leather seats, panoramic viewing, extensive onboard features and a level of comfort unparalleled by any other vehicle.

Signature Top of the South Island

Enjoy this itinerary in the Premium Economy Comfort of a full-size coach, touring with a mid-size group of up to 32 travellers. The Signature coaches are beautifully crafted, designed for New Zealand touring with 'delivering excellence' always front of mind. Stay in a selection of stylish, centrally located 4-star hotels offering superior service after a full day of adventure. Your professional Coach Captain and experienced Tour Leader will share their expert knowledge with you, offering authentic, innovative and educational experiences as your journey unfolds.

EXPLORE AND INDULGE

Experience the award-winning Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise, offering the chance to see the smallest and rarest Hector’s Dolphins. Cruise the shores of the Abel Tasman National Park, a hidden gem with crystal clear water and sandy beaches.

Meander through the pristine waters of the Marlborough Sounds to Furneaux Lodge for a delicious lunch including fresh local produce. Board the world-renowned TranzAlpine Railway from Christchurch to Lake Brunner, travel over spectacular viaducts, river valleys and gorges.

Sample locally brewed beers over a delicious lunch at Monteith’s Brewing Co, located in Greymouth on the stunning West Coast.

The Journey

Grand Pacific's Top of the South Island tour deviates from the main tourist highways and ventures to idyllic hideaways like Lake Brunner and the Hokitika Gorge on the West Coast, Abel Tasman National Park in Nelson and the Marlborough Sounds.

Targeting the "not-so-oldies" and the young-at-heart, Grand Pacific have designed this itinerary for the growing number of travellers who want a more engaging experience of New Zealand’s remarkable landscape and wildlife.

Coach transfers are kept to a minimum, with 1.5 hours the norm and the longest journey, from Kaikoura to Christchurch, a very scenic 2.5 hours taking in one of the finest coastal drives in the world.That means when the coach reaches exceptionally pretty places like Kaiteriteri in the Nelson region there is time to wander its famous golden sands, linger over a latte or browse boutique shops for gifts or treats.

With scenic walks spotted throughout the 11-day journey, most requiring less than an hour’s exertion, travellers can experience some of the South Island's natural wonders like the extraordinary ‘stack of pancakes’ rock formations and blowholes of Westland’s Punakaiki (aka Pancake Rocks) as they are pounded by the relentless Tasman Sea.

Explore the 11 Day Ultimate Top of the South Island Tour

Explore the 11 Day Signature Top of the South Island Tour