Private Tour
Available languages
96 hours
Mobile ticket
Embark on an unforgettable 4-day journey through New Zealand's stunning South Island, exploring many of its major attractions. Start your tour in Auckland, one of the major gateways to NZ, and conclude in the vibrant city of Christchurch. Experience Queenstown's beauty while exploring Lake Wakatipu, Gardens, and lakeside streets. Thrill at 360-degree spins on a jet boat and enjoy panoramic views from Skyline Queenstown. Discover the enchanting Te Anau Glowworm Caves and the sparkling waters of Milford Sound. Immerse yourself in the majestic scenery of Mount Cook and the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki. Enjoy stargazing at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best places in the world for night sky viewing. Drive to Arthur's Pass, marveling at the unique rock formations of Castle Hill, before returning on the iconic TranzAlpine Scenic Train. Throughout the tour, enjoy the hospitality of a knowledgeable guide-driver, a comfortable vehicle, and scenic drives.
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Travelers should have their own comprehensive travel insurance
If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
If any optional activity is canceled by activity provider or unavailable, alternatives provided
Optional: Accommodation for 3 nights in 4 to 5-star properties with breakfast where available
Standard Economy Arrival Flight Ticket from Auckland to Queenstown
WiFi on board
Packaged snacks & chocolates
Use of charging cables & emergency rain gear
Transportation throughout the tour
Optional: Entry tickets for Milford Sound Cruise, Jet Boating & Gondola with Luge Rides
Optional: Entry tickets for TranzAlpine Train, Stargazing in Dark Sky Reserve, Glowworm Caves Tour
Packaged water bottles
Knowledgeable guide-driver
Food & Drinks (except 3 x breakfast where available with "With Hotels & Entry Tickets" option)
Travel Insurance
Anything not described in the inclusions
Optional ("With Hotels & Entry Tickets" Option): 4 to 5-star hotel with breakfast based on availability & season.
Auckland
Start this multi-day tour in relaxed and delightful style! Board your flight at Auckland to reach Queenstown.
Queenstown
Enjoy a convenient airport pickup in Queenstown. Visit the famous Queenstown Gardens, located on a picturesque peninsula surrounded by Lake Wakatipu. These gardens offer a peaceful retreat with stunning views. After exploring the gardens, take a leisurely stroll through the streets of central Queenstown to experience the city's cheerful vibes. After this moment of calmness, prepare yourself to experience the power of twin V8 engines as you jet boat down the Shotover/Kawarau River. Reaching speeds of up to 95 kmph, enjoy the adrenaline rush with multiple 360-degree spins.
Te Anau
Enjoy a scenic drive to Te Anau and check-in to your hotel at Te Anau, refresh and prepare for the famous Te Anau Glowworm Cave tour.
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Explore the fully guided underground caves and marvel at the thousands of glowworms illuminating the darkness like a starry sky. These glowworms, known as Arachnocampa luminosa, are unique to New Zealand and are found exclusively in the country's caves. They create a mesmerizing display as they emit a soft blue-green light, creating a magical atmosphere. The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a truly enchanting experience. Finish this day full of beautiful memories.
Optional ("With Hotels & Entry Tickets" Option): 4 to 5-star hotel with breakfast based on availability & season.
Milford Sound
Start your day with a convenient hotel pickup in Te Anau. Enjoy the scenic drive towards Milford Sound, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Take advantage of scenic stops and nature walks like Eglinton Flats, Mirror Lakes, Hollyford Valley Lookout, Falls Creek, Monkey Creek, Lake Gunn along the way to capture the beauty of the landscape. Upon reaching Milford Sound, embark on a cruise to experience the stunning beauty of the fiord up close. Marvel at the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife that call this area home. Enjoy a scenic return drive to Queenstown.
Skyline Queenstown
Upon reaching Queenstown, check-in to your hotel. Take a ride on the Queenstown Gondola, which is believed to be the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere. Upon reaching the top, you'll be treated to spectacular views of The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, Walter and Cecil Peak, and, of course, Queenstown itself. Spend quality time at the top exploring the area, and engage in fun activities like luge rides and open-air chairlifts. Watch mesmerizing panoramic views. Afterwards, take a return ride on the Gondola back down, where you will be picked up and dropped off at your hotel to relax and recharge for another epic day, exploring Aoraki Mount Cook.
Optional ("With Hotels & Entry Tickets" Option): 4 to 5-star hotel with breakfast based on availability & season.
Start another beautiful day with pickup from your hotel in Queenstown. Enjoy the drive to Mount Cook. Pass through Lindis Pass on your way to Mount Cook. Stop at Lindis Pass Summit Lookout to enjoy endless vistas of mountains.
Lake Pukaki
Visit Lake Pukaki, a stunning glacier-fed alpine lake known for its mesmerizing turquoise waters. Marvel at the beauty of this natural wonder as you take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak.
Aoraki/Mt. Cook
The drive towards Mount Cook offers awe-inspiring views. Upon reaching Mount Cook, immerse yourself in the mesmerizing scenery. Either hike through the famous Hooker Valley Track and/or Tasman Glacier View Track to soak up the area’s wild beauty or engage in other activities like a helicopter ride, depending on weather conditions. Look out for the kea, the world’s only alpine parrot. Continue driving towards Lake Tekapo.
Upon reaching Lake Tekapo, check into your hotel and recharge. In the evening, take advantage of the opportunity to participate in a stargazing activity in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of the largest Dark Sky Reserves in the world. Lake Tekapo is renowned for its stunning night skies, free from light pollution, offering a breathtaking view of the stars. This experience is perfect for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone looking to marvel at the beauty of the universe.
Lake Tekapo
Start your day by being picked up from your hotel in Lake Tekapo. Visit the renowned ‘Church of the Good Shepherd’ and take in its picturesque setting against the backdrop of Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps. Enjoy a brief, leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Tekapo. Take a break at Lake Lyndon as we drive towards Arthur's Pass.
Castle Hill
Visit Castle Hill and marvel at the photogenic landscape of stunning limestone rock formations. This location has served as a backdrop for famous Hollywood movies, showcasing its unique and breathtaking scenery. Capture the beauty of this natural wonder and immerse yourself while taking a short loop walk.
Arthur's Pass National Park
Explore the natural beauty of Arthur’s Pass National Park with a leisurely walk along the Devil’s Punchbowl Walking Track or the Arthur’s Pass Walking Track. These tracks wind through lush native bush, offering glimpses of stunning waterfalls and providing a peaceful escape into the heart of the park. As you stroll, keep an eye out for native birdlife and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Otira Viaduct Lookout
Enjoy the stunning views from the Otira Viaduct Lookout, which offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
TranzAlpine Train
Board the TranzAlpine Scenic Train at Arthur’s Pass Station for a breathtaking ride through stunning landscapes. Disembark at Christchurch Railway Station, where you will be picked up. Our enchanting journey concludes as we bid you farewell at your preferred location in Christchurch.
Without Accommodations: This option excludes accommodations. Travelers must book their own accommodation. Date-specific location guidance provided.
Without Entry Tickets: This options excludes entry tickets for activities. Travelers book their own desired activities. Timeslot guidance provided.
With Accommodations: Includes accommodation for 3 nights in 4 to 5-star handpicked hotels with breakfast based on availability and season.
With Entry Tickets: Includes entry tickets for TranzAlpine Train, Stargazing, Glowworm Cave, Jet Boating, Gondola w/ Luge & Milford Sound Cruise.
Without Accommodations: This option excludes accommodations. Travelers must book their own accommodation. Date-specific location guidance provided.
With Entry Tickets: Includes entry tickets for TranzAlpine Train, Stargazing, Glowworm Cave, Jet Boating, Gondola w/ Luge & Milford Sound Cruise.
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Operated by Waimate Journeys