10 Day Southern Wild Itinerary

‘Haere Mai’ and welcome to New Zealand!

New Zealand’s second-largest city and the gateway to the South Island, Christchurch sits on the very edge of the Canterbury Plains and is bordered by the Pacific Ocean.  Stop in at the Riverside Market - a 7-day-trading, indoor market, linked to a vibrant network of boutique retail, restaurants, cafes & bars. Alternatively step back to Edwardian times with a relaxing Private Punting Trip down the Avon River. It's a wonderful introduction to the "Garden City". Gliding gently along the river in a flat-bottomed boat, you will take in Christchurch's 'must-see' historic buildings and Botanic Gardens away from the hustle and bustle of the city streets. Make the most of your free time, your New Zealand short break starts tomorrow.

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 night

It’s ‘all aboard’ this morning as you will begin your adventure on the renowned Tranz Alpine Railway, rated as one of the top 6 rail journeys in the world. Be entranced by the spectacular panorama that unfolds outside your window – the tracks wind through the very heart of the Southern Alps, a mighty mountain landscape that’s home to craggy gorges, soaring peaks and ribbons of crystal-clear rivers.

Once arrived in Greymouth we continue by coach to Franz Josef. We drive to Hokitika, where a nearby river is famous for being a traditional source of pounamu (greenstone). We stop in at a pounamu jewellery factory for a close-up look at this special native gem. Journeying onwards, we reach our final destination of Franz Josef Village – and here, you’re in for a real treat. The Franz Josef Glacier tumbles down from the Southern Alps almost to the sea, its ancient icy faces contrasting spectacularly with the surrounding rainforests. You will stay 2 nights in Franz Josef. 

Accommodation: Franz Josef - 2 Nights

Today is a free day to explore the region around Franz Josef. You are in the heart of the Westland National Park, considered to be the most diverse and beautiful areas in New Zealand and the home of the Kea, a protected native parrot that thrives in the chilly environment and is infamous for its inquisitive and often destructive behaviour! 

If you are feeling adventurous take a Glacier Heli Hike and land on the glacier with an experienced guide to explore the towering peaks and ice formations.

Today we venture across the mountains, driving up and over the Haast Pass and travelling past dramatic rivers, forests and mountains. We stop to stretch our legs on an easy forest track that leads to dazzling blue pools and the amazing Thunder Creek Falls. We journey along the shores of the turquoise-blue lakes of Wanaka, Hawea and Dunstan, and make our way through the rugged cliffs of the Kawarau Gorge and onwards to Cromwell. The final stop of today is Queenstown - the adventure capital of New Zealand.

Accommodation Queenstown - 2 nights

The surrounding area is known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vineyards and the natural landscape with wild rivers, high peaks and deep canyons has allowed Queenstown to developed an exciting array of outdoor adventure activities - and there's plenty to choose from. But if you are just want to chill out then Queenstown's compact downtown area is relaxed during the day and huge fun at night. In any season, you can count on stylish designer shops and many trendy restaurants offering a kaleidoscope of dining experiences.

Today promises to be one of the major highlights of your time in New Zealand. We journey to Te Anau, the gateway to the stunning Fiordland National Park, before driving the spectacular Milford Road. Lush forests, glacier-carved valleys, snowy peaks and mirror-like lakes dot this very special driving experience into a renowned World Heritage Site. 

Continuing through the hand-carved Homer Tunnel and on to Milford Sound itself, the views of this grand fiord are breath taking. We explore its inky waters on a boat cruise, soaking up the surroundings of granite cliffs, tumbling waterfalls and unique wildlife before journeying to Te Anau for the night. 

Accommodation: Te Anau - 1 Night

Today you will leave Te Anau and continue to Dunedin where you will arrive in the early afternoon. Majestic Victorian architecture dots the city centre, but one of the main attractions is the rare wildlife that lives here.

Dunedin is home to rare yellow-eyed penguins as well as the world’s only accessible mainland colony of Northern Royal Albatross. These princely ocean adventurers are thrilling to see up-close. Experience Dunedin your way with an afternoon of free time. Enjoy some time exploring some of the old historical buildings, university and train station! 

Accommodation: Dunedin - 2 Nights

Today you will cruise the length of the Otago Harbour. Experience an unforgettable half day cruise and peninsula tour and explore Careys Bay historic fishing village, Port Chalmers’ busy wharves and the harbour’s beautiful bays, hills, farmland, and forest. Enjoy Monarch’s fascinating Wildlife Cruise around Taiaroa Head and the surrounding coastline of dramatic cliffs. 

Watch the NZ Furseals play and swim near their breeding colonies, out at sea you can spot rarely seen ocean birds including other albatross species and petrels, and you may see penguins, dolphins and other marine mammals.

Today we are heading back to Christchurch. Keep your eyes peeled for the perfectly rounded boulders which are embedded in the sand at Moeraki Beach. It’s a scenic coastal and rural route, passing through charming towns like Oamaru—famous for its Victorian architecture and blue penguins—and Timaru, with its lovely Caroline Bay. Along the way, you’ll see rolling farmland, ocean views, and glimpses of the Southern Alps on the inland horizon.

Accommodation Christchurch - 1 Night

Homeward Bound"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage!

Today it’s time to say farewell to New Zealand. You will be transferred to the airport to begin your homeward journey.