Signature Spectacular South Tour

Kia Ora! Welcome to Wellington – New Zealand's capital city! Wellington is known for its world-class dining, great coffee and eccentric shops. Your great journey will officially begin the moment you check into your hotel room. After reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Wellington has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to get cultured at Te Papa Museum or grab a drink at one of the many quirky bars on Cuba Street. You may even fancy a ride on the cable car!After an exciting day on the town, join your fellow travellers as well as the Tour Director at this evening's welcome reception. Stay: Rydges Wellington (or similar), Wellington

This morning you will say Haere ra to Te Ika a Maui (good-bye to the North Island) as you sail to the South Island, crossing the Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry. As the shores of the North Island slowly disappear, enjoy a hearty seafaring breakfast on board. Around mid-day, you will be spoiled with harbour views entering the Queen Charlotte Sound. Admire the beauty of this coastal paradise as you arrive at the gateway of the South Island, Picton. Step off the Interislander Ferry and join your next world-class experience on a Marlborough Wine Tour! Stay: Picton Beachcomber Inn (or similar), Picton (B)

The morning is yours to explore Picton. Meander through the local craft stores and coastal walks, or perhaps take a cruise to the Queen Charlotte Sound. Enjoy the waterfront cafes before boarding the Coastal Pacific train for another highlight rail journey through the Marlborough Wine Region. Today you will be travelling into Kaikōura. Relax and let the train glide you across remote beaches, between mountains and sea, on a timeless journey of breathtaking beauty. Keep an eye out for the fur seals lazing on the rocks! Once in Kaikōura, the evening will be yours to enjoy some iconic kai moana (seafood) at one of the quaint restaurants. Stay: Sudima Kaikoura (or similar), Kaikoura (B)

Today will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience of whale watching! Enjoy today's thrill of an up-close encounter with the world's largest-toothed predator, the Giant Sperm Whale. If you would prefer to gain an aerial experience of the wildlife, why not request a plane or helicopter ride to capture the true grandeur of it all? After this outstanding experience, we're sure you will be feeling peckish. Head to the beach to sample some iconic New Zealand food - you can't go wrong with the humble Kiwiana fish and chips.

Work off the deep-fried delights by wandering through the wonderful array of local artisan stores and souvenir shops. In the late afternoon, your journey will continue, once again, on the Coastal Pacific Train enroute to Christchurch, or “The Garden City”. The spectacular scenery doesn't cease to amaze as you journey south through the rolling hills and flat plains. Enjoy the relaxing journey with a glass of wine in hand from the scenic café. Sit back and relax for the remainder of the evening before hitting the town the following day. Stay: Rydges Latimer Christchurch (or similar), Christchurch (B)

Christchurch, the hub for South Island exploration is also a wonderful city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican influence. Often remembered for its earthquake in 2011, the city is still rebuilding itself into a multi-cultural haven. So, without further delay, jump on the historic tram to learn the history, tales, and culture of Ōtautahi Christchurch.

Enjoy your free time as you explore the Arts Centre, Quake City Museum and botanical gardens. There is also a multitude of delicious cafes tucked into quaint side streets we're sure you will love. If you are in the mood for something different, set off for Akaroa, a French coastal settlement just outside the city.

Dinner onboard the Christchurch Historic Tramway. Stay: Rydges Latimer Christchurch (or similar), Christchurch (B/D)

The moment has come to experience the world-famous TranzAlpine journey through the Southern Alps to the West Coast!On this fantastic escape, you will see epic vistas, soar on the edges of the ice-fed Waimakariri River, traverse the Southern Alps, and experience miles of native beech forest. The natural scenery isn't the only marvel though. The TranzAlpine will also pass through the Otira Tunnel, a true engineering marvel of almost 100 years!Once you arrive on the West Coast, you will travel even further off the beaten track by coach to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Here you will walk amongst limestone formations before finishing your day in the coastal town of Hokitika. Stay: Beachfront Hotel Hokitika (or similar), Hokitika (B)

This morning you start your West Coast adventure by visiting one of the South Island's most popular activities– The Treetop Aerial Walkway. This elevated adventure will get you acquainted with the locals – the ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees of course.

After your sky-high experience continuing into glacier country, you'll reach Franz Josef. Franz Josef glacier is quite unique in that it survives in coastal rainforest temperatures. We'll drive as close as possible, but if you'd 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 our glacial experience and checking into our hotel, you'll have some free time to enjoy Franz Josef town. Indulge in a little retail therapy, the helicopter flight, nature walk or tap into some natural tranquillity at the hot pools. Stay: Te Waonui Forest Retreat (or similar), Franz Josef (B/D)

Today you will explore the Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey of about five hours to Queenstown, will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. While aboard an exciting river boat and private coach, marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and majestic glaciers as your Tour Director guides you between local hidden gems. Stop in unique locations that only locals know about. Emerging on the other side of the pass, explore the local fruit hotspot – Mrs. Jones' Fruit Stall before exploring the cobblestone streets 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! Stay: Scenic Hotel Queenstown (or similar), Queenstown (B)

Make sure you charge your camera before you set off on today's adventure. Today you're heading to Milford Sound / Piopiotahi to be engulfed in towering peaks and to waltz through plunging valleys. After travelling through native rainforests, meadows, and knobs (yes knobs!), you will join your cruise in Milford Sound. Jump aboard and meander down the sound where you will experience the rumble of Bowen and Stirling Falls as they plummet from glacial hanging valleys sharply into the sea. Marvel at the sheer pinnacle of Mitre Peak, rising from the deep waters of the fiord. Or if you'd like to soar like the Piopio (ancient bird), why not elevate your day by flying into the Sounds by plane or helicopter? After this adventure, you will be heading back to Queenstown for the evening. Sip cocktails and indulge in Queenstown's exciting nightlife along the sparkling Lake Wakatipu. Stay: Scenic Hotel Queenstown (or similar), Queenstown (B/L)

Queenstown truly has something for everyone. Personalise your day to be as active or relaxed as you'd like. Whether it's sipping wine in Gibbston Valley or bungy jumping with AJ Hackett, there is no shortage of activities to delight your senses. Enjoy a final hurrah this evening as we board the TSS Earnslaw cruise. Reflect on your great adventure with your fellow travellers as you cruise to your dining experience at Walter peak overlooking the beautiful Table Bay. Stay: Scenic Hotel Queenstown (or similar), Queenstown (B/D)

Your journey will finish after breakfast. (B)