Overview
Itinerary
Christchurch is known for its historical earthquake in 2011 and how it rebuilt itself into a charming, multicultural city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican influence. Your journey will officially begin the moment you check into your hotel room. After reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Christchurch has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to wander through the enticing stalls at Riverside Market or explore the botanical gardens before heading to the art gallery. After an exciting day on the town, join your fellow travellers as well as the Tour Director at this evening's welcome reception. Stay: Rydges Latimer Christchurch (or similar), Christchurch
The moment has come to experience the world-famous TranzAlpine journey through the Southern Alps to the West Coast!
On this fantastic escape, you will see epic vistas, soar on the edges of the ice-fed Waimakariri River, traverse the Southern Alps, and experience miles of native beech forest. The natural scenery isn't the only marvel though. The TranzAlpine will also pass through the Otira Tunnel, a true engineering marvel of almost 100 years!
Once you arrive on the West Coast, you will travel even further off the beaten track by coach to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Here you will walk amongst limestone formations before finishing your day in Punakaiki. Stay: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki (or similar), Punakaiki (B)
This morning you start your West Coast adventure by visiting one of the South Island's most popular activities– The Treetop Aerial Walkway. This elevated adventure will get you acquainted with the locals – the ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees of course.
After your sky-high experience, you will continue south into Glacier Country. Franz Josef glacier is quite unique in that it survives in coastal rainforest temperatures. We'll drive as close as possible, but if you'd prefer to get up close, we recommend booking an optional helicopter flight. This will ensure you are getting the best possible view of this natural wonder.
After our glacial experience and checking into our hotel, you'll have some free time to enjoy Franz Josef town. Indulge in a little retail therapy, the helicopter flight, nature walk or tap into some natural tranquillity at the hot pools. Stay: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (or similar), Franz Josef (B)
Heading southwards, enjoy exploring the Southern Lakes region as you marvel at the sublime scenery. From glacier country, you will tread through the incredibly dense West Coast rainforest. In the distance, enjoy the spectacular picture-perfect mountain peaks as you journey along the clifftops.
After enjoying Haast, you will continue south through the dramatic Haast Pass and alongside impeccable lakes. The next stop will have you perusing through the delicious South Island fruit selection of fruit stalls. Charming and quirky Arrowtown is next on the itinerary.
After an exciting plunge into the gold rush village history, you have arrived in the world-famous resort town of Queenstown! Stay: Mercure Queenstown Resort (or similar), Queenstown (B)
Enjoy a free day to explore everything Queenstown has to offer.
Today we highly recommend that you join an excursion to the 8th Wonder of the World - it truly is a remarkable experience. Milford Sound / Piopiotahi is a scenic escape approximately three hours from Queenstown. The natural landscape will engulf you as you waltz through plunging valleys and under towering peaks. This could possibly be one of the most scenic drives you'll experience in your lifetime! Take this encounter to the next level by soaring like the Piopio (ancient bird) by plane or helicopter.
Whether you've decided to hop aboard the steamship lake cruise on the iconic TSS Earnslaw, or marvel at the power of ancient roaring rivers - tonight you have the night to indulge in Queenstown's exciting nightlife. Sip cocktails and indulge in the sparkling views of Lake Wakatipu. Stay: Mercure Queenstown Resort (or similar), Queenstown (B)
Queenstown truly has something for everyone. Personalise your day to be as active, or relaxed as you'd like. Whether it's sipping wine in Gibbston Valley, or bungy jumping with AJ Hackett, there is no shortage of activities to delight your senses.
This evening you'll come together as a group for a farewell dinner before departing. Stay: Mercure Queenstown Resort (or similar), Queenstown (B/D)
Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travellers. Airport transfer included. (B)
Trip Inclusions
The journey is part of the destination on our tours, and our Scenic trains are the ultimate way to see New Zealand.
On our Classic Alpine Tour, your journey begins aboard the world-famous TranzAlpine, traversing the rugged cliffs of the Waimakariri River gorge on your ascent into the Southern Alps. ; From Arthur's Pass, you will descend through the century-old Otira tunnel that stretches 8.5km beneath the great divide. On the far side, you'll wind through the lush green scenery of West Coast on your way past Lake Brunner and onto Greymouth.
Lastly, from Greymouth you will travel by luxury bus along the famous Great Coast Road - one of the most beautiful roads in the world.
- Witness the engineering marvels of the Otira Tunnel
- Explore the Southern Alps by train
- Experience the mesmerising blue lakes of the South Island
- Discover sacred pounamu and ancient forests on the West Coast
- Explore New Zealand's city life in Christchurch, Greymouth and Queenstown
- Be captivated by the storytelling of your local tour director along this great journey
- Experienced Tour Director
- Punakaiki (Pancake Rocks)
- West Coast Treetops Aerial Walkway
- TranzAlpine Scenic Train Journey
- Free time and optional excursions to personalise your holiday
- Arrival transfer
- Optional activities (unless specified)
- Meals (unless specified)
- Airfares
- Personal spending money
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Availability
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Great Journeys New Zealand. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Great Journeys New Zealand. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
