New Zealand: South Island Encompassed
Overview
15 Days | Roundtrip from Christchurch | Active South Island Expedition
Experience the dramatic wilderness of New Zealand's South Island. Highlights of this 15-day adventure include day hikes in Abel Tasman National Park, cruising the iconic Milford Sound, exploring Franz Josef Glacier, and discovering the alpine landscapes of Mt Cook and Queenstown.
Duration
15 Days/14 Nights
Rating
4.7 (177 Reviews)
Pickup Point
Bealey Quarter, Christchurch
Price
from $1,899
Itinerary
Day 1: Christchurch (Arrival)
Arrive in Christchurch at any time. Meet your group and CEO for a welcome orientation meeting in the evening.
Day 2: Christchurch to Kaikoura
Travel north along the scenic coastline to Kaikoura, famous for marine life and seal colonies.
Day 3: Kaikoura to Abel Tasman National Park
Drive through Marlborough wine country toward Tasman Bay, setting up camp on the edge of Abel Tasman National Park.
Day 4: Abel Tasman National Park
Spend a full day exploring golden beaches and coastal forest trails by foot, water taxi, or optional kayak.
Day 5: Abel Tasman to West Coast / Punakaiki
Head west through the rugged Buller Gorge to view the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes in Punakaiki.
Day 6: Punakaiki to Franz Josef Glacier
Disembark after breakfast. Complimentary group transfers to the airport or city luggage storage are included.
Day 7: Franz Josef Glacier
Travel along the West Coast road to the glacier region, taking in views of rainforests meeting snow-capped mountains.
Day 8: Franz Josef to Queenstown
Full day to explore the glacier environment with optional guided heli-hikes, rainforest walks, or local hot pools.
Days 9–10: Queenstown
Drive through the Haast Pass past glacial lakes Wanaka and Hawea to Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world.
Day 11: Queenstown to Fiordland / Te Anau
Two free days in Queenstown to enjoy optional bungy jumping, jet boating, mountain biking, or hiking Ben Lomond.
Day 12: Milford Sound Cruise to Central Otago
Head into Fiordland National Park, set among towering peaks, deep fjords, and native beech forests.
Day 13: Central Otago to Aoraki / Mt Cook Region
Experience a scenic cruise on Milford Sound surrounded by waterfalls and sheer cliffs, then travel into Central Otago.
Day 14: Mt Cook / Lake Tekapo to Christchurch
Journey north past Lake Pukaki to the foot of New Zealand's highest mountain, Aoraki / Mt Cook.
Day 15: Christchurch (Departure)
Hike in the shadow of Mt Cook, view the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, and finish the loop back in Christchurch.
What's Included & Excluded
What's Included
✅ Accommodation: 14 nights in a mix of hostels, hotels, lodges, and scenic campsites
✅ Meals: Selected breakfasts and group dinners as specified in the trip dossier
✅ Transportation: Private air-conditioned minivan throughout the South Island
✅ Activities: Milford Sound scenic cruise, Abel Tasman coastal day hike, Kaikoura coastal walk, and Punakaiki Pancake Rocks visit
✅ National Park Fees: Entry and permits for all visited national parks
✅ Group Leader: CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout the tour
What's Excluded
❌ International Flights: Airfare to and from Christchurch (CHC)
❌ Travel Insurance: Mandatory for participation
❌ Visas / NZETA: Entry visas or Electronic Travel Authority for New Zealand
❌ Unspecified Meals: Personal lunches, dinners, alcoholic drinks, and snacks
❌ Optional Activities: Glacier heli-hiking, bungy jumping, jet boating, and skydiving in Queenstown
❌ Tips & Gratuities: For local drivers, guides, and activity operators
Who Is This Tour For?
✅ Active Explorers: Ideal for travelers who love combining daily day hikes and outdoor activities with comfortable transport between highlights.
✅ Nature & Landscape Lovers: Perfect if you want to experience New Zealand's glaciers, fjords, alpine lakes, and coastal rainforests all in one trip.
✅ Road-Trip Enthusiasts: Great for those who enjoy iconic scenic drives and stopping at remote viewpoints along the way.
✅ Thill-Seekers & Hikers: Designed for adventurers who want free time in Queenstown and Mt Cook to customize their own adrenaline or hiking experience.
Trip Details
Physical Rating: Level 2 (Light/Moderate) – Accessible to most fitness levels capable of walking on dirt trails, uneven terrain, and basic coastal paths with a light daypack.
Travel Style: Active Road-Trip Expedition – A mix of scenic drives in a private minivan, day hikes, national park exploration, and coastal cruises.
Group Size: Small group experience (Max 18 travelers) led by an expert Chief Experience Officer (CEO).
Transport: Private air-conditioned minivan, water taxis, and scenic cruise vessels.
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