Epicurean Alpine Odyssey

Kia Ora! Your unforgettable journey starts in Christchurch. Check-in to your hotel then enjoy a warm welcome from your tour guide. Dive into the experience, meeting your fellow travelers and exclusive tour guide. Indulge in an included dinner at a renowned Christchurch restaurant, savoring culinary delights that reflect the vibrant flavors of New Zealand, promising a perfect end to an enriching day of exploration and cultural immersion. Stay tuned as your guide unveils tomorrow's enchanting voyage across the South Island. Stay: 4 - 4.5 Star Accommodation, Christchurch (D)

Embark on a breathtaking journey through New Zealand's South Island. Prepare to be enchanted as you board the TranzAlpine train in the morning, enjoying the Scenic Plus package that treats you to a sumptuous breakfast and lunch against the backdrop of unparalleled vistas.

Your adventure continues as the TranzAlpine pulls into Greymouth. Here, your transport awaits to whisk you away to Hokitika, where a truly authentic experience awaits. Join Rachel from Hokitika Scenic Tours and a local Iwi member for an immersive pounamu (jade) experience, followed by a guided walk around the mesmerizing Hokitika Gorge loop track, led by Rachel and the Iwi.

Mid afternoon, bid farewell to Hokitika as coaches depart for Franz Josef, where your accommodation awaits. After checking in, indulge in a delicious dinner included at the hotel, rounding off a day filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences. Stay: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (or similar), Franz Josef (B/L/D)

Embark on a day of wonder and exploration of the south, beginning with breakfast included at your hotel. As the morning unfolds, seize the opportunity to elevate your experience with an optional helicopter tour, treating yourself to breathtaking aerial views of Franz Josef and its surrounding landscapes.

Set off on a scenic coach journey from Franz Josef to the picturesque village of Ōkārito. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Ōkārito with the Ōkārito Heritage EcoTour. This enriching experience combines a captivating walking tour with a tranquil lagoon boat tour, offering insights into the area's rich history and biodiversity. Indulge in a delicious lunch featuring local delicacies, included as part of your tour.

With approximately two hours of free time, marvel at the beauty of Ōkārito before returning to Franz Josef, where the afternoon beckons with a myriad of optional activities. Whether you choose to relax and unwind or embark on further adventures, the choice is yours to make the most of your time in this stunning region. Stay: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier (or similar), Franz Josef (B/L)

Enjoy breakfast included at your hotel as anticipation mounts for your adventure ahead. Bid farewell to Franz Josef as you set off for the unforgettable Haast River Safari. Immerse yourself in the captivating Haast River Safari Experience, a journey through pristine wilderness and exhilarating rapids that promises to leave you in awe. During your safari, make a stop at the charming Fruit Emporium, where you can indulge in locally sourced delights and refreshments.

Please note that there will be no stop at Arrowtown today, as this enchanting destination will be covered on the following day of your itinerary.

As your safari concludes, anticipation builds as you arrive in the vibrant town of Queenstown, renowned for its stunning scenery and endless adventures. The evening is yours to savor at your leisure, perhaps exploring Queenstown's culinary scene or simply relaxing and soaking in the atmosphere. You'll enjoy the luxurious Naumi The Dairy Hotel Queenstown, providing a perfect retreat after a day filled with excitement and discovery. Stay: Naumi The Dairy Hotel, Queenstown (B/L)

Indulge in a leisurely morning as your day begins with a continental breakfast included at the Naumi Hotel, featuring a tempting spread of croissants, cold meats, and cereals, ensuring you start your day on a delicious note.

With the morning at your leisure, explore Queenstown at your own pace, immersing yourself in the array of optional activities this vibrant lakeside town has to offer. Around noon, embark on a delightful journey with Ayrburn Arrowtown, as their coaches collect you from Naumi The Dairy Hotel.

Prepare for a treat as you're transported to Ayrburn for a wine tasting experience paired with a buffet lunch. Following this culinary adventure, take some time to wander around the charming Arrowtown township, soaking in its quaint charm, before returning to Queenstown aboard the coach.

This serves as a farewell function, marking the end of your tour with memorable flavors and experiences. As the day winds down, retreat to the lounge at Naumi The Dairy Hotel for happy hour. Enjoy complimentary drinks and canapés, raising a toast to the adventures of the tour and the memories made. Stay: Naumi The Dairy Hotel, Queenstown (B/L)

As your journey ends, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel letting you relish those last moments of your stay. It's time to say goodbye as you check out of the hotel. As you prepare to depart, rest assured that your departure transfer is included, ensuring a seamless transition as you head towards your next destination. Reflect on the memories created during your stay, carrying with you the experiences and adventures that have enriched your journey. (B)