Great Journeys New Zealands - Alpine Highlights Itinerary

Welcome to Christchurch – New Zealand’s Garden City. The largest city in the South Island, Christchurch is known for its historical earthquake in 2011 and how it rebuilt itself into a charming, multicultural city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican ‘gothic revival’ architectural influence.

After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your tour director, head out and explore all that Christchurch has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to wander through the enticing stalls at Riverside Market or explore the botanical gardens before heading to the art gallery, museums and other city attractions.

After an exciting day on the town, your journey will officially begin as you join your fellow travellers and tour director at this evening’s welcome reception.

Meals: Dinner & Drink

Experience the world-famous TranzAlpine scenic train journey through the Southern Alps, emerging in the West Coast!

On this fantastic escape, you will see epic vistas, soar on the edges of the ice-fed Waimakariri River, traverse through the Great Divide, and experience ever-changing landscapes. The natural scenery isn’t the only marvel, though. The TranzAlpine passes through the Ōtira Tunnel, a true engineering marvel of 100 years!

Once you arrive at the West Coast, a private coach will take you even further off the beaten track to Punakaiki, where you will explore curious limestone rock formations and blowholes.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch on the train

Accommodation: West Coast - 1 Night

This morning you’ll start your West Coast adventure by visiting one of the South Island’s most popular activities– the West Coast Tree Top walk. This elevated adventure will get you acquainted with the locals – the ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees.

After your sky-high experience, continue south into glacier country. Franz Josef Glacier is quite special in that it survives in the warm coastal rainforest temperatures. With a short walk to a viewpoint, you'll get a fantastic view of the vast valley, as well as a sneak peak of Franz Josef Glacier itself. If you would 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 your glacial experience and checking into the hotel, you’ll have some free time to enjoy Franz Josef town. Indulge in a helicopter flight, nature walk or tap into some natural tranquility at the local hot pools.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Franz Josef - 1 Night

Today you will be exploring the mountainous Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey to Queenstown will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. Marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and stunning glaciers as your tour director guides you between local hidden gems.

Emerging on the other side of the pass, explore a local fruit hotspot before exploring the cobblestone streets of the historic goldmining settlement 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!

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Queenstown - 3 Nights

Enjoy a free day to explore everything Queenstown has to offer.

Today, we highly recommend you join an excursion to the 8th Wonder of the World – it truly is a remarkable experience. Milford Sound / Piopiotahi is a scenic escape approximately three hours from Queenstown. The natural landscape will engulf you as you waltz through plunging valleys and towering peaks.

Take this encounter to the next level by booking a return visit by plane and soar like the Piopio (ancient bird) back to Queenstown.

Whether you’ve decided to hop aboard the steamship lake cruise on the iconic TSS Earnslaw, or marvel at the power of ancient roaring rivers, tonight you have a free evening to indulge in Queenstown's exciting nightlife. Sip cocktails and indulge in the sparkling views of Lake Wakatipu.

Meals: Breakfast

Queenstown truly has something for everyone. Personalise your day to be as active or relaxed as you’d like. Whether it’s exploring Walter Peak on a horse trekking adventure, joining the historic steamship across Lake Wakatipu or sipping wine in Gibbston Valley, there is no shortage of activities to delight your senses.

This evening is your ‘final hurrah’ as you enjoy a farewell dinner. This is the perfect time to reminisce and share photos and phone numbers with your new friends.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
 

Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travellers.

Meals: Breakfast

Minimum Age: 

• 16 years and over
• Under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult

Accommodation:

• Twin share
• Single upgrade available
• Solo Traveller Share options available

Please note: Tour inclusions may vary depending on the season of departure.

Reverse journey available on selected dates