5 DAY
SOUTH ISLAND TOUR

​​​Day One: Christchurch → Franz Josef

 

Depart Christchurch at 9:00 AM and journey across the South Island in style, travelling from the Canterbury plains to the wild West Coast. Enjoy scenic stops at the limestone landscapes of Castle Hill, alpine views in Arthur’s Pass, and the chance to spot the native kea parrot. Visit the artisan town of Hokitika before continuing past pristine lakes and rainforest to Franz Josef, where you’ll stay the night surrounded by glacier-carved wilderness. 

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Consider stopping at Devil’s Punchbowl in Arthur’s Pass Village for a refreshing break and scenic walk or stop at the famous Hokitika Gorge and see why it is loved by so many. If you’re planning to enjoy the Hokitika Gorge Walk (a 1.5-hour return walk), please be aware that it requires a 40-minute drive inland from the main highway each way. Planning ahead is recommended to allow enough time.

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Spend the night in the charming alpine township of Franz Josef, nestled at the foot of the glacier. Enjoy the opportunity to explore the region with a guided glacier walk, an unforgettable scenic helicopter flight, or an exhilarating Heli-hike onto the glacier itself. Here you can ​discover local artisan shops and take in the crisp, fresh alpine air.

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Due to time constraints, some activities require advance planning to ensure availability and a smooth experience.

 

For overnight accommodation recommendations please see the "Accommodation" tab at the top. 

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Day Two: Franz Josef → Queenstown 

​​The next morning, depart Franz Josef around 9:00 AM and journey over the spectacular Haast Pass, arriving in Queenstown by late afternoon.

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Traveling down New Zealand’s wild West Coast is nothing short of breath-taking, with towering mountains, native rainforest, and dramatic landscapes revealing themselves around every turn. The drive takes approximately six hours plus scenic stops along the way—perfect for photos and a relaxed pace. Due to limited dining options en route, we recommend a later lunch stop of your choice - your driver will be happy to discuss this during your journey.

 

Place we suggest to stop on the way:

• Lake Matheson

• Blue Pools Walk

• ​Haast Pass

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Should time allow, consider adding Wanaka onto your stop. Alternatively you can do this as an optional activity during your free-time in Queenstown.

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Day Three: Queenstown

While in Queenstown, you’ll have access to a wide range of unforgettable experiences.

Choose from iconic adventures like the AJ Hackett bungy jump, Shotover jet boat ride, Gondola ride, Indoor I-Fly skydiving or a more relaxed, Tenpin bowling at Kingpin. We are also happy to arrange a full-day tour and scenic cruise to the world-renowned Milford Sound.

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For additional activity ideas, check out our additional activities page in the tab at the top. 

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*Should you wish to extend your stay, you can add an additional night in Queenstown.*

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Day Four: Queenstown→ Mount Cook

As you leave Queenstown, you will begin to see the landscape change into turquoise alpine lakes, rolling farmland, and panoramic mountain views before arriving at the breath-taking Aoraki Mount Cook Village. Along the way, you’ll pass the vivid blue waters of Lake Pukaki, with uninterrupted views of Aoraki/Mount Cook rising majestically in the distance. From rolling high country plains to glacier-carved terrain, every turn offers a postcard-perfect moment. 

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We recommend stopping at the Famous Alpine Salmon Farm with options to also stop at Mrs Jones Fruit Shop and New Zealand’s highest lavender farm.

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Day Five: Mount Cook Village→ Christchurch

Waking up in Mount Cook Village feels like stepping into a dream—surrounded by towering peaks, crisp alpine air, and the stillness of untouched wilderness. As the morning light touches the snow-capped mountains, a deep sense of awe and tranquility washes over you, grounding you in nature’s grandeur.

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To really experience this surreal landscape, why not start your day with either the stunning Hooker Valley Track Walk  or the Tasman Glacier boat ride. To see the vast expanse of how far the Southern Alps reach, book yourself on a scenic helicopter or plane flight with the option of a glacial landing.

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We then say goodbye to Mount Cook Village and journey to Lake Tekapo, visiting the Famous Church of The Good Shepherd. Heading back, consider having lunch at the Fairlie Bakery in the Township of Geraldine before heading back through the rolling Canterbury Plains to the City of Christchurch.

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*Should you wish to extend your stay, you can add an additional night in Lake Tekapo.*

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Make this ultimate, bucket list South Island trip a reality and contact us today. 

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