South Island Uncovered

Days 1-2  Christchurch to Akaroa  
Pick up your car and drive east to beautiful Akaroa Harbour, nestled in the heart of an ancient volcano. Join a nature cruise to spot rare Hector’s dolphins, or explore one of the many picturesque walking trails before enjoying fresh fish and chips by the harbourfront.    

Day 3  Akaroa to Oamaru  
Today head down the coast, with a stop in Timaru to sample their famous artisanal cheeses, to the charming and historic town of Oamaru, where grand Victorian buildings line the promenade. As the sun sets, the town’s resident blue penguins perform their nightly ritual as they surf to shore and waddle home to their nests.    

Days 4-5  Oamaru to Dunedin  
Continue south and stop off to admire the famous domed boulders of Moeraki Beach. Explore Dunedin with its unique Scottish architecture and join a tour to the rugged Otago Peninsula, home to fur seals and majestic albatross.    

Day 6  Dunedin to Invercargill  
Spend the day discovering the stunning Catlins Forest Park. Those who venture this far into rural Southland are rewarded with rugged scenery, towering waterfalls and an abundance of birdlife. This evening head to Invercargill.    

Days 7-8  Invercargill to Stewart Island  
A 20 minute drive takes you to Bluff for your ferry across to Stewart Island. Spend your first day exploring this unspoilt natural paradise and as dusk sets in, venture into the native forest with your experienced guide for a chance to encounter the loveable and curious wild brown kiwi.  Enjoy another full day here and perhaps visit the Ulva Island Wildlife Sanctuary, home to rare bird and plant species.    

Day 9  Stewart Island to Te Anau  
Continue your journey to the lakeside town of Te Anau and marvel at the glacial-carved wilderness of Fiordland National Park.    

Day 10  Te Anau  
Today board a day cruise out to less explored Doubtful Sound, a stunning natural wonder 10 times larger than neighbouring Milford Sound and equally spectacular.    

Day 11  Te Anau to Gibbston Valley  
Head through the mountains to New Zealand’s best kept secret of boutique wineries in a scenic valley. Spend the afternoon sipping Pinot Noir in style before retiring to your boutique cottage.  

Day 12  Gibbston Valley to Queenstown  
Drive to Queenstown and continue your onward journey.