Overview
Itinerary
Enjoy your free time as you explore the Arts Centre, Quake City Museum and botanical gardens. 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, a French coastal settlement just outside the city. Dinner onboard the Christchurch Historic Tramway. Stay: Rydges Latimer Christchurch (or similar), Christchurch
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 the coastal town of Hokitika. Stay: Beachfront Hotel Hokitika (or similar), Hokitika (B)
After your sky-high experience continuing into glacier country, you'll reach Franz Josef. 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: Te Waonui Forest Retreat (or similar), Franz Josef (B/D)
Stop in unique locations that only locals know about. Emerging on the other side of the pass, explore the local fruit hotspot – Mrs. Jones' Fruit Stall before exploring the cobblestone streets of Arrowtown. After an exciting plunge into the history of this gold rush village, you will arrive in the world-famous resort town of Queenstown! Stay: Scenic Hotel Queenstown (or similar), Queenstown (B)
Jump aboard and meander down the sound where you will experience the rumble of Bowen and Stirling Falls as they plummet from glacial hanging valleys sharply into the sea. Marvel at the sheer pinnacle of Mitre Peak, rising from the deep waters of the fiord. Or if you'd like to soar like the Piopio (ancient bird), why not elevate your day by flying into the Sounds by plane or helicopter?
After this adventure, you will be heading back to Queenstown for the evening. Sip cocktails and indulge in Queenstown's exciting nightlife along the sparkling Lake Wakatipu. Stay: Scenic Hotel Queenstown (or similar), Queenstown (B/L)
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. Enjoy a final hurrah this evening as we board the TSS Earnslaw cruise. Reflect on your great adventure with your fellow travellers as you cruise to your dining experience at Walter peak overlooking the beautiful Table Bay. Stay: Scenic Hotel Queenstown (or similar), Queenstown (B/D)
Your journey will finish after breakfast. (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 Signature Inspirational Alps 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.
- Explore the Southern Alps onboard the world-famous TranzAlpine scenic train
- Discover the home of pounamu and ancient forests on the Wild West Coast
- Dine along marvellous scenery in world-class locations
- Be captivated by the storytelling of your local tour director along this great journey
- Explore New Zealand's city life in Christchurch and Queenstown
- Experienced Tour Director
- Christchurch Historic Tramway Restaurant
- West Coast Treetop Aerial Walkway
- Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes Walk
- Haast River Safari
- Milford Sound Day Tour and Cruise
- TSS Earnslaw; Cruise and Dinner Excursion
- World-Class Scenic Train Journey
- Arrival transfer
- Optional activities (unless specified)
- Meals (unless specified)
- Airfares
- Personal spending money
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Each Signature Tour takes you deep into New Zealand culture on a unique rail journey filled with amazing local experiences.
Travel to New Zealand's most spectacular locations, while enjoying a Tour Director, 4-4.5 star accommodation, breakfasts, select meals, train journeys, premium activities and transfers.
Dates & Pricing
USD
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 Inquire. Additional savings may apply. 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. Pricing and trip details are correct 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 the cruise-line and 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.
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