South Island New Zealand touring ideas

This popular South Island itinerary captures the essence of the South Island’s towns, lakes, mountains, fiords and glaciers including iconic attractions such as the TranzAlpine train journey and a visit to the more remote Doubtful sound in Fiordland National Park. The must-see locations of Queenstown and Mt. Cook National Park are also included.

This 8 day itinerary will give you a wonderful taste of the South Island's scenery while enjoying some of our great lodges and hotels including The Hermitage at Mt. Cook, Larnach Castle in Dunedin, Fiordland Lodge in Te Anau, Matakauri Lodge in Queenstown,Te Waonui on the West Coast and the fabulous George Hotel in Christchurch.

A fabulous exploration of New Zealand's lower South Island, taking in all that makes this region such a spectacular vacation destination. From Christchurch, head to the Southern Alps and Mt. Cook National Park, Dunedin and the wildlife of the Otago Peninsular, Te Anau and Fiordland National Park, Queenstown and the West Coast Glaciers.

This 8 day scenic touring route will give you a wonderful taste of the South Island's beauty and diversity. Visit Christchurch and Dunedin and take time to explore these wildly different and unique cities. Explore Mt. Cook and Fiordland National Park, visit Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital before heading to the West Coast and New Zealand's glacier region.

This tour takes you for 11 days of adventure around the South Island. Travelling with like-minded people, you will leave with new friends. The transport for this trip is second to none. With only 20 seats on a full-sized coach, you can only imagine the comfort and space as you witness New Zealand's most dramatic landscapes from the comfort of your seat. 
On arrival into Christchurch, you will be met by a Grand Pacific representative who will transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink as you meet your travelling companions.

Looping from Christchurch to Queenstown and back this tour highlights the very best of the South Island. Cross the Southern Alps on the most beautiful train ride, cruise Milford Sound and much more all whilst travelling on one of Grand Pacific's "business class" style coaches.

Discover 100% Pure New Zealand on this Inspiring Journey through the bountiful natural treasures of the South Island. From the still waters of Milford Sound and snowcapped peaks of the Southern Alps to rolling hills and grassy plains of Central Otago, delve into the exquisite beauty of a land that has remained unchanged for millennia.

Starting from Queenstown discover the best of the south’s spectacular scenery, five national parks and the wild West Coast’s rainforests and seascapes. Cruise on Milford Sound and cap off the day with an unforgettable flight back over the Alps. From Wanaka head to Lake Matheson, Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers. Experience untouched Paparoa National Park and return over Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch.

Start with a visit to Invercargill’s transport museums then fly to Stewart Island for two nights. From the island cruise across to Ulva Island bird sanctuary, a nature lover’s playground. Back on the mainland explore the stunning Catlins coastline and the albatross colony near Dunedin and Larnach Castle.

Stay in the heart of Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, cruise on Milford Sound and take a spectacular flight back over the Alps to Queenstown. From Wanaka, the Haast Pass leads to lush rainforests, Franz Josef Glacier, Okarito Lagoon and Punakaiki’s wild coastline.

*May, July & Sept departures may vary slightly due to seasonal availability.

Float amid the untouched beauty of Doubtful Sound on an overnight cruise. Stay in stunning Queenstown and Wanaka, see Arrowtown and stay at the historic Cardrona Hotel. Tour up the West Coast to Franz Josef before returning over Arthur’s Pass.