8 Days: Christchurch, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Glacier Region, Tranz Alpine Train

Tour Overview:
After arriving in Christchurch, travel across the fertile Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo before continuing on to Mt. Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain. Explore the world renowned Milford Sound fjord as well the fairytale like backdrop of Queenstown, the world’s adventure capital. Explore the glacier region of Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, before ending your trip on a high by taking one of the most scenic train journeys on the planet, the TranzAlpine.

DAY 1 – ARRIVE CHRISTCHURCH

On arrival in Christchurch, ‘The Garden City’, seat in coach passengers will be met by our local representative and privately transferred to your hotel. Self drive clients will collect your rental car at the airport and drive to your hotel.

DAY 2 – CHRISTCHURCH / MT COOK / QUEENSTOWN

Travel across the fertile Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo before continuing on to New Zealand’s highest mountain, Mt Cook. Depart Mt Cook and follow the shores of Lake Pukaki south through the historic Central Otago region to the ‘Alpine Resort’ of Queenstown. (B)

DAY 3 – QUEENSTOWN – MILFORD SOUND

Follow the southern arm of Lake Wakatipu to Lumsden, and onward to Lake Te Anau. Enter the Eglinton Valley and travel through the breath taking man made Homer Tunnel to reach Milford Sound. Enjoy a cruise on this world famous fiord, dominated by Mitre Peak and the cascading Bowen Falls. Return to Queenstown. (B)

DAY 4 – QUEENSTOWN

A free day to explore the endless optional attractions available. Queenstown offers bungy jumping, jetboating, white water rafting, gondola rides and much more. Optional activities not included in tour price. (B)

DAY 5 – QUEENSTOWN / GLACIER REGION

Depart Queenstown this morning and travel along the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea to the Haast Pass. Continue up the West Coast past spectacular mountain ranges and native forests to the glacier region of Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. For Self Drive clients, entry to the Glacier Hot Pools is included. (B)

DAY 6 – GLACIER REGION

This morning enjoy a glacier valley walk. This afternoon is at leisure. Optional activities include helicopter scenic flights (optional tours at additional cost). (B)

DAY 7 – GLACIER REGION / TRANZ ALPINE TRAIN / CHRISTCHURCH

Travel north to Greymouth today and board the world famous Tranz Alpine train. Ascend through lush beech forests past the alpine village of Arthur’s Pass before crossing the spectacular Southern Alps onto Christchurch. (B)

DAY 8 – DEPART CHRISTCHURCH

Transfer to the airport for your departing flight. (B)

* This tour is also available on self-drive basis