Classic Southern Highlights Tour

Kia Ora! Welcome to Wellington – New Zealand's windy capital! Wellington is known for its world-class dining, great coffee and eccentric shops. Your great 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 Wellington has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to get cultured at Te Papa Museum or grab a drink at one of the many quirky bars on Cuba Street. You may even fancy a ride on the cable car! 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 Wellington (or similar), Wellington

This morning you will say Haere ra to Te Ika a Maui (good-bye to the North Island) as you sail to the South Island, crossing the Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry. As the shores of the North Island slowly disappear, enjoy a hearty seafaring breakfast on board. Around mid-day, you will be spoiled with harbour views entering the Queen Charlotte Sound. Admire the beauty of this coastal paradise as you arrive at the gateway of the South Island, Picton. Step off the Interislander Ferry and join your next world-class experience on a Marlborough Wine Tour! Stay: Scenic Hotel Marlborough (or similar), Blenheim (B)

After enjoying a delightful breakfast, the morning is yours to explore sunny Blenheim. Enjoy the roses at Upton Oaks Garden or perhaps learn a thing or two about aviation at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre.

You'll hear the hoot of the Coastal Pacific train as it pulls in to bring you on yet another scenic experience. This time – along the rugged coastline of the South Island. On this train journey, you will glide across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless voyage of breath-taking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks!

Once in Kaikoura, the evening will be yours to enjoy some iconic kai moana (seafood) at one of the well-known restaurants. Stay: Sudima Kaikoura Hotel (or similar), Kaikoura (B)

Today, if you choose, will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You will have the opportunity to go whale watching! Enjoy today's optional thrill of an up-close encounter with the world's largest-toothed predator, the Giant Sperm Whale. Want to get an aerial experience of the wildlife? Why not request a plane or helicopter ride to capture the true grandeur of it all?

Whether you have decided to go llama trekking or swimming with the dolphins and seals, we're sure you will be feeling peckish. Head to the beach to sample some iconic New Zealand food - you can't go wrong with the humble Kiwiana fish and chips. Work off the deep-fried delights by wandering through the wonderful array of local artisan stores and souvenir shops.

In the late afternoon, your journey will continue, once again, on the Coastal Pacific Train en route to Christchurch, or “The Garden City”. The spectacular scenery doesn't cease to amaze as you journey south through the rolling hills and flat plains. Enjoy the relaxing journey with a glass of wine in hand from the scenic café. Stay: Rydges Latimer Christchurch (or similar), Christchurch (B)

Christchurch, the hub for South Island exploration is also a wonderful city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican influence. Often remembered for its earthquake in 2011, the city is still rebuilding itself into a multi-cultural haven. So, without further delay, jump on the historic tram to learn the history, tales and culture of Ōtautahi Christchurch.

Enjoy your free time as you explore the Arts Centre, Quake City Museum and botanical gardens. Ride on the city tram to uncover Christchurch's great history. There is also a multitude of delicious cafes tucked into quaint side streets we're sure you will love. If you are in the mood for something different, set off for Akaroa, an ‘incroyable' French coastal settlement just outside the city.

Dinner awaits as you join your fellow travellers once again to tell them about the exciting places you discovered. Stay: Rydges Latimer Christchurch (or similar), Christchurch (B/D)

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)