Southern Escape

Arrive in Christchurch, a picturesque city where you will find a charming combination of its English Heritage, incredible natural surroundings, and lively local attractions.

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

Ride the iconic TranzAlpine train, then drive through the Southern Alps, home to the Franz Josef/ Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere and Fox glaciers, as well as spectacular lakes and rainforests. Stay: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier (B/D)

Insider Experience: Embark on one of the world's great rail journeys aboard the TranzAlpine train. Watch the South Island's snow-capped mountains and rolling green hills glide past from the comfort of your seat.

Travel past the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, through Haast Pass, skirting the shores of lakes Wanaka and 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: Settle in for a two-night stay with the dramatic backdrop of towering mountains overseeing Lake Wakatipu.

After heading up to Bob's Peak, enjoy lunch at one of the FergFoods restaurant located throughout the city centre (Fergburger, FergsBar, Mrs. Ferg & FergBaker), then enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Why not try one of our Select Experiences? Join the TSS Earnslaw for a cruise to Walter Peak Station, offering an insight into farming life in New Zealand's high country, or take an exhilarating Shotover Jet Boat ride (both at own expense). This evening, perhaps tantalise your tastebuds as you discover Queenstown's thriving foodie scene. (B/L)

Insider Experience: Ride the Skyline Gondola 450 metres above the city to the top of Bob's Peak and check out the view as all of Queenstown spreads below 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. Your reward is a cruise along the full length of the sound. Carved by ancient glaciers, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi is widely regarded as one of the most incredible natural wilderness areas on earth. Later, continue by coach to Te Anau. After time to settle into your hotel, enjoy dinner. Stay: Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau (B/D)

Insider Experience: Cruise the full length of Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, a magnificent fiord with spectacular landscapes surrounding this World Heritage-listed area.

Leaving the Fiordland region, today you'll journey through rolling Southland countryside before arriving in Dunedin. Enjoy a tour taking in the city's most significant landmarks and learn of its rich 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. These large spherical stones were formed more than 60 million years ago and can be found along a stretch of Koekohe Beach. Continue to Oamaru to see some of New Zealand's finest 19th-century architecture. Later, en route to Lake Tekapo, journey into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park to admire the sublime alpine scenery. Arrive at your hotel, Peppers Bluewater Resort, situated near the shores of Lake Tekapo. Stay: Lake Tekapo, Peppers Bluewater Resort (B/D)

Insider Experience: View majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook, the highest mountain in Australasia. Dine on fresh local produce at your hotel's stylish restaurant during a memorable Farewell Dinner.

Your final day in New Zealand begins with a visit to the tiny Church of the Good Shepherd on the edge of Lake Tekapo. Enjoy the pristine natural beauty. Your journey then concludes on arrival at Christchurch Airport. (B)