Ultimate South Island

Day 1 Christchurch                                                                
Arrive into Christchurch and be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative at the airport who will transfer you to your hotel. This evening, meet your fellow companions for a welcome reception.                                                                

Day 2 Christchurch to Franz Josef      
Board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. Travel in style through breathtaking gorges. This evening, transfer by coach to Franz Josef where free time is available to experience an optional scenic flight over the glaciers.                                                                

Day 3 Franz Josef to Queenstown                          
Upon arrival into Queenstown after a scenic drive along the west coast, enjoy time at leisure for the remainder of the day. Choose to ride the gondola or explore one of the many hiking trails in the area.      

Day 4 Queenstown              
This morning,  you are free to choose between several of optional sightseeing experiences including a jet boat ride or a heritage tour of Skippers Canyon. This afternoon, board the TSS Earnslaw vintage steamship and enjoy a barbecue dinner at Walter Peak Station.                              

Day 5 Queenstown to Te Anau            
Enjoy a leisurely start to the morning before visiting the Lakes District Museum in Arrowtown. Continue onto Te Anau and perhaps visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves this afternoon.        

Day 6 Milford Sound              
Enjoy a nature cruise on Milford Sound. Witness the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy a picnic lunch on-board. This afternoon, return to Te Anau and do as you wish during free time.  

Day 7 Te Anau to Dunedin            
Travel to Dunedin, known as the ‘Edinburgh of the South’ and enjoy a city tour followed before free time to explore at leisure. Choose to take a brewery tour, see albatross in their natural habitat or take a tour of Olveston Historic Home.  

Day 8 Dunedin to Mount Cook            
Hear the tragic and scandalous stories on a guided tour of Lanarch Castle. Spend time wandering the grounds of this Garden of International Significance followed by an Ultimate High Tea served in the Grand Ballroom. Depart Dunedin and head to Oamaru, famous for its limestone and continue along the Waitaki River en route to Mount Cook.          

 Day 9 Mount Cook to Christchurch                        
Marvel at Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Weather permitting, take the opportunity to enjoy a scenic flight over the Southern Alps. Continue to view the turqouise waters of Lake Tekapo before returning to Christchurch for a farewell dinner.            

Day 10 Christchurch              
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward travels after a memorable holiday.