Trip Length
12 Days
Trip Starts
Christchurch
Trip Finishes
Christchurch
Countries Explored: New Zealand
Accommodation
4 - 5 Star
Max. Group Size
22
Trip Code
NZSI
Overview
Read reviews and enjoy exclusive savings on Inspiring Journeys 12 Day The Southern Drift. Discover New Zealand on this Inspiring Journey through the natural treasures of the South Island. From the still waters of Milford Sound and snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps to the rolling hills of Central Otago, delve into the beauty of landscapes that have remained unchanged for millennia.
Itinerary
On arrival at Christchurch Airport you'll be driven by private car to your hotel. Spend some time at leisure to relax or explore on your own. Perhaps visit the Christchurch Botanical Garden or take a ride on the Christchurch Tram. In the evening meet your Journey Director for a Welcome Reception. Stay: Hotel Montreal, Christchurch
It's all aboard the TranzAlpine train. Rated as one of the world's great scenic railway journeys, you'll travel in comfort across the Canterbury Plains through to the Southern Alps. From Arthur's Pass, visit the small town of Hokitika, the heritage and cultural centre of the West Coast, to learn about the importance of Pounamu, better known as jade or greenstone.
Later we continue to Franz Josef. Your eco-friendly accommodation is set amid native bush, with an emphasis on relaxation and rejuvenation. This evening, why not enjoy Franz Josef's local geothermal hot pools or perhaps a massage. Stay: Te Waonui Forest Retreat
After a relaxed start we explore this area, where a local guide explains the history behind the mighty Franz Josef Glacier.
This morning it's time for an adventure as we journey down the Haast River in a purpose built, fully enclosed river jet boat. After a lunch stop at Makarora then travel on to Arrowtown where there is time to explore this historic gold-mining village on the Arrow River. Continue to Queenstown for an orientation tour. Tonight, dinner is included at your hotel. Stay: Hotel St Moritz Queenstown
Enjoy Queenstown your way! Perhaps join a wine tour and taste some of Central Otago's world-renowned Pinot Noir or view The Lord of the Rings film locations on a scenic tour of Queenstown and Glenorchy. Tonight, you can dine at one of the local restaurants along the waterfront in town or simply relax at your hotel.
Make the most of your extended stay in Queenstown. Why not sit back and enjoy a peaceful cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard New Zealand's oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak Station, take a jet boat ride down the mighty Shotover River. Or simply relax, shop or enjoy time at one of the many cafés and restaurants while soaking up the alpine views. Tonight, enjoy a highlight dinner at one of Queenstown's exclusive restaurants.
Travel south along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau on the shores of the South Island's largest lake. Later you'll travel through the rainforest of the UNESCO-listed World Heritage site of Fiordland National Park, sighting glaciers and mountain ranges onto the amazing Mirror Lake before driving through the hand-hewn Homer Tunnel. Tonight, stay at the magical Milford Sound Lodge, with views of the Cleddau Valley. Stay: Milford Sound Lodge
Wake up to the startling beauty of Milford Sound. This morning, explore a section of the famous Milford Track on an easy going half day guided walk. This place is steeped in rich history and stories, the flora and fauna are unique and special. This afternoon aboard the Southern Discoveries vessel sit back and relax as a specialist nature guide introduces you to the natural wonders of Milford Sound often called the ‘eighth natural wonder of the world'.
We leave the majestic Fiordland National Park for the fertile sheep-dotted pastures of South Otago. Travel through Te Anau known for its beautiful lake and on to the country musical town of Gore for lunchtime, before arriving in Dunedin, New Zealand's southernmost city. Enjoy dinner tonight at Parcels Restaurant at your hotel. Stay: Distinction Dunedin Hotel
Enjoy a relaxed start this morning, before taking a guided tour oat Emerson's Brewery, sample the tasty craft beer before an afternoon at leisure. Relax or continue exploring Dunedin as you wish. Perhaps ride the historic Tairei Gorge Railway or take a wildlife cruise of the Otago Pennisula.
Travel up the east coast of the South Island via Oamaru and Timaru. On arrival in Christchurch embark on a sightseeing tour of the city to learn about its rebirth after the devastating 2011 earthquake. Stay: Hotel Montreal, Christchurch
Say farewell to your fellow travellers as your Inspiring Journey comes to an end and we transfer you to Christchurch Airport for your onward flight.
Trip Inclusions
- TranzAlpine train journey
- Franz Josef Glacier Valley Guided Walk
- Haast River Safari
- Milford Track ½ day guided walk
- Southern Discoveries Milford Sound Nature Cruise
- Emerson's Brewery Tour – Craft Beer
- Specialist team of two highly experienced Journey Director and Driver Guide
- Local Specialists (Guides)
- Mixture of boutique, unique and 5-star hotels
- 11 Full buffet breakfasts
- 7 Dinners with wine
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat
- Warm layers in cooler months, and a waterproof
- Camera
- Day 1: Flights to arrive prior to 4.00pm into Christchurch Airport
- Day 12: Flights to depart anytime from Christchurch Airport
- Low level of fitness required
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Trip Reviews (1) Most Recent 'The Southern Drift' Reviews
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1 Star
A great trip 0 The Drifters, QLD, Australia, Jan 2015
Overall a great trip with a really good bunch of fellow travellers. Stewart Island was probably a bit of a waste of time and we feel a better wildlife experience would have been an eco-tour on the Otago Peninsular, from Dunedin. Coach driver and Tour guide were great - we love to hear local stories and get some local history. Anyone heading to the South Island needs to spend a little time in Christchurch, to see the devastation and meet the locals who are coping with rebuilding not only their city, but their lives - exceptional.
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Note
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.
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.
Note
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 Inspiring Journeys.
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 Inspiring Journeys.
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