Southern Escape

Arrive in Christchurch, a picturesque city known for its English influence, incredible natural surroundings, and lively local attractions.

Tonight, meet your Tour Director. Stay: Christchurch, Hotel Elms (D)

Start the day with an Insider Experience, as you travel aboard the iconic TranzAlpine train. Afterwards, drive through the Southern Alps, home to the Franz Josef/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere and Fox Glaciers, as well as spectacular lakes and rainforests. Stay: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier (B/D)

Insider Experience: Journey across the South Island from coast to coast on this world-famous rail journey. Climb over the snow-capped Southern Alps through striking scenery to the wild West Coast.

Travel past the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, through Haast Pass, and then skirt the shores of Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea to Queenstown. The city is renowned for its world-class food, so during time at leisure, perhaps enjoy one of the many local restaurants. Stay Two Nights: Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview (B)

Insider Experience: Relax and unwind in your room, which boasts sublime views of Lake Wakatipu and the snow-capped peaks of The Remarkables. You'll be just a short stroll from Queenstown's vibrant centre, allowing you to explore and make the most of all that this lively resort town has to offer. Whether it's great food and wine, shopping or adventure that you're after, Queenstown has something just for you.

Begin today with an Insider Experience. Then, enjoy lunch at one of the famous Ferg Foods restaurants located in the city centre (Fergburger, Ferg's Bar, Mrs Ferg and Fergbaker). The rest of the day is free for you to spend at leisure, so you may like to choose one of our exciting Enhance Your Journey experiences. This evening, perhaps tantalise your tastebuds as you discover Queenstown's thriving foodie scene. (B/L)

Insider Experience: Ride the Skyline gondola to the top of Bob's Peak, 480 metres above the city. Marvel at the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu, Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and the town sprawling out beneath you.

This morning after breakfast, skirt The Remarkables mountain range, tracing the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Fiordland National Park and beyond to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Here, an incredible Insider Experience waits. Later, continue by coach to Te Anau. After taking time to settle into your hotel, enjoy a delicious dinner. Stay: Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau (B/D)

Insider Experience: Carved by ancient glaciers, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular wilderness regions in the world. Set sail on a cruise along the full length of the World Heritage-listed fiord, basking in all the natural wonders you encounter.

After leaving the Fiordland region today, you'll journey through the rolling Southland countryside before arriving in Dunedin. Enjoy a tour, where you'll see the city's most significant landmarks and learn about Dunedin's history. Take some time at leisure to explore the town as you please. Stay: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City (B)

Journey along the east coast to see the Moeraki Boulders/Kaihinaki. A geological marvel, these large spherical stones were formed around 65 million years ago and can be found along a stretch of Koekohe Beach. Travel to Oamaru to see some of New Zealand's finest 19th-century architecture, and then continue to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where an incredible Insider Experience waits. Later, journey to Lake Tekapo/Takapo and arrive at your hotel, Peppers Bluewater Resort. Stay: Lake Tekapo/Takapo, Peppers Bluewater Resort (B/D)

Insider Experience: Traverse the glorious alpine landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and take in the spectacular surrounds as you pass towering mountains and glacier-fed rivers. Stop to admire breathtaking views of Aoraki/Mount Cook, which is New Zealand's highest peak.

Insider Experience: Say 'ka kite ano' (see you again) to New Zealand and your fellow travellers at a special dinner at Rakinui Restaurant at Peppers Bluewater Resort on the stunning shores of Lake Tekapo/Takapo. Enjoy exquisite local cuisine prepared by world-class chefs as you celebrate the end of your Kiwi adventure with new-found friends.

Your final day in New Zealand begins with a visit to the Church of the Good Shepherd on the edge of Lake Tekapo/Takapo. Enjoy the pristine natural beauty of the spectacular surrounds.

Afterwards, you'll be transferred to Christchurch Airport, where your tour with us concludes. (B)