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See all the highlights of New Zealand's scenic South Island on this five-day guided sightseeing tour. Travel by coach from Christchurch to Queenstown, experience the majesty of Milford Sound, view the glacier at Franz Josef and travel aboard the famous TranzAlpine Express train. Highlights include Mount Cook, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Haast Past, Franz Joseph and the incredible TranzAlpine Rail Journey
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
Independent Touring - this is not a Group Tour - we use local suppliers and you will have a different coach & driver each day
Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Accommodation as per itinerary
Air-conditioned vehicle
Milford Sound Cruise
Live commentary on board
Tranz Alpine from Greymouth to Christchurch
Food and drinks, unless specified
Gratuities
5-Day South Island Tour from Christchurch in a single room.
Pickup included
5-Day South Island Tour from Christchurch in twin share accommodation.
Pickup included
5-Day South Island Tour from Christchurch in triple share accommodation.
Pickup included
Operated by Leisure Tours
67 reviews
Susan K,Nov 2, 2024
I really enjoyed my 5 Day bus tour. Visiting Franz Joseph Glacier was a little disappointing because it was rather late in the day, and therefore the fog and mist hid nearly everything. The Glacier is so far away from the viewing platforms, that even in good weather not much would be seen in good detail. A vantage point closer would be great, but I completely understand that this is not possible unless you fly there! The accommodation in Queenstown for three nights was fabulous and the view from my room overlooking the lake was awesome. On the last day of the tour, a massive rain and snow weather event moved in. Our time visiting Mt Cook was cancelled because the snow was very high on the road, and we got to the turnoff not long before the road was closed. At that time it was -14° on Mt Cook! We experienced quite a full on snow storm and the towns and lakes along our journey looked more like ski resorts! We were very lucky to get through that area, and thanks to our wonderful driver, we made it back to Christchurch with no dramas! This was my first up close and personal experience with snow, and an adrenaline charged journey I'll never forget. I've now learned that the weather in New Zealand is very changeable and that just adds to the overall excitement and uncertainty of what lies ahead. Thanks to Leisure Tours for a well organised bus tour.
Abhay S,Oct 22, 2024
This was 5 day packages linked and tailored to see the South Island. The hotels were top quality and good location and the tour drives were all friendly and knowledgeable. Just have to ensure you are punctual and board the bus as per the detailed itinerary provided. Enjoyed South Island due to this tour.
Eduardo G,Sep 22, 2024
Operator is not respecting stops , times in locations . They only give 10 mins instead 30. Besides we were not taken to fox glacier as it says in Viator.
Raj J,Jan 29, 2024
Very intensive itinerary but well coordinated with use of professional local service operators. Good choice of hotels although the first one at Franz Josef was a marginal 3/4*.
David S,Jan 28, 2024
I went on this trip to see the fiords from a boat as the big event although the other sightseeing was also spectacular. I am well pleased with the result. The boat went right up to a couple of waterfalls and plenty opportunity to take some pics. Breathtaking. On the last day the trip back was on rather small busses when we could have done with windows in the roof and a little more space to sit for 8 hours but OK. On the whole a great tour.