DAY 1: Cross the international date line and arrive in New Zealand on Day 03
Day 3: Christchurch - Franz Josef
We board the world famous TranzAlpine for our journey across the Canterbury Plains through the Southern Alps. Join our coach at Arthur's Pass and visit the small town of Hokitika for a Jade jewellery demonstration. We travel through the gold-mining town of Ross before arriving at Franz Josef. This afternoon we enjoy informative commentary from our expert local glacier guide as he walks us to our viewing area at mighty Franz Josef Glacier. Tonight enjoy a welcome drink and dinner with your fellow passengers. Tr2.Hotel: Franz Josef Glacier Country Retreat, Franz Josef. (D)
DAY 4: Franz Josef - Queenstown
This morning there is time for an optional scenic flight over the glacier (weather permitting) or to take a dip in the local hot pools. Later we travel over the Haast Pass and along the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea. Stop to explore the historic gold-mining town of Arrowtown followed by an orientation tour of Queenstown before arriving at our exclusive accommodation, Millbrook Resort. Tonight is at leisure to dine at one of the restaurants at the resort. Hotel: Millbrook Resort, Queenstown, 2 nights (B)
DAY 5: Queenstown 'Free Time'
Today is free for you to explore at your leisure. Perhaps try a jet boat ride, white water rafting or a round of golf at Millbrook's world-renowned golf course. Tonight we ride the Skyline Gondola to Bob's Peak for dinner with a view overlooking stunning Queenstown, the Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu.(B)
Day 6: Queenstown - Milford Sound
We travel south along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau on the shores of Lake Te Anau, the largest lake in the South Island. Later we travel into the Fiordland National Park. We take time to explore the Mirror Lakes, Pop's Lookout and the Chasm before arriving into Milford Sound for our overnight cruise. Enjoy dinner on board tonight. Hotel: Milford Mariner, Milford Sound. (B, D)
DAY 7: Milford Sound - Stewart Island
This morning we enjoy the many early morning activities on board. Perhaps take a walk on the foreshore or try kayaking on the Sound. Later we continue further south to the southern-most city in New Zealand, Invercargill. This afternoon we board our ferry at Bluff to cruise to Stewart Island. Tonight is free to dine at one of the cafés or the local hotel. Hotel: Bay Motel, Stewart Island, 2 nights. (B)
DAY 8: Stewart Island
Enjoy a Village and Bays tour this morning before a cruise with lunch on Paterson Inlet. Stop at Ulva Island and spend time with native wildlife. Ulva Island is managed by the Department of Conservation. It is predator-free and is a must for viewing native birds and flora. Tonight you may want to try to spot kiwis in the native bush near our accommodation!. (B,L)
DAY 9: Stewart Island - Lake Ohau
We board our ferry and return to the mainland. We travel towards Queenstown stopping to try local stone fruit at Cromwell. Enjoy views of Lake Dunstan, New Zealand's largest man-made lake as we travel over the Lindis Pass into the Mackenzie Country. We arrive at our wilderness retreat, with its views of Lake Ohau and Mt. Cook. We dine watching the sun set on mighty Mt. Cook. Hotel: Lake Ohau Lodge, Mt. Cook. (B,D)
DAY 10: Depart Christchurch
Soak up the scenery of Mt. Cook National Park with an optional scenic flight (weather permitting). We'll see Lakes Pukaki and Tekapo, visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and travel across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch. You will be transferred to Christchurch Airport for your onward flight. (B) . Can be combined with an Australia extension. |
