Road Trip: South Island Discovery

17 Days from $5,190 USD / person

On this intensive New Zealand round trip, you will experience the scenic diversity of the South Island. Go stargazing at Lake Tekapo, explore the history and heritage of Oamaru, and say hello to penguins at the Blue Penguin Colony. Surround yourself in the incredible landscape of the Otago Peninsula and Milford Sound – this is a treat for wildlife lovers! Dramatic sceneries of the Southern Alps await you in Queenstown and at the Franz Josef Glacier. Relax on the sun-kissed beaches of Nelson or head out on a cruise to Abel Tasman National Park. Spot dolphins, whales, and birds off the coast of Kaikoura.

Like all of our Oceania tours, you can also customize this tour to your wishes. Contact us to get started on a journey of a lifetime!

Luxury Travel. Your Way.

This itinerary will be customized for you. Please reach out and our experts will work with you to create a journey so unique, it could only be yours.

Ideal For

Nature & Landscapes

Wildlife & Safaris

Sample Itinerary

Day

Place

Hotel Opts

1 – 2

Christchurch
Highlights: English Heritage, Maori Art & Culture, Southern Alps

The Quality Hotel Elms
The George

2 – 4

Tekapo

Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo
Ranginui Bed & Breakfast

4 – 5

Oamaru

Brydone Hotel
Valley Views Glamping Otiake

5 – 7

Dunedin
Highlights: Unique Landscapes, Otago Peninsula Wildlife Reserve, Culture & Architecture

Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin
Distinction Dunedin

7 – 8

Te Anau
Highlights: Lake Te Ana, Gateway to Fiordland National Park, Adventure & Outdoors

Distinction Hotel and Villas Lake Te Anau
Blue Ridge B&B

8 – 10

Queenstown
Highlights: Dramatic Landscapes, Adventure Sports, Milford Sound Fjord

Heartland Hotel Queenstown
Hotel St Moritz Queenstown

10 – 12

Franz Josef Glacier
Highlights: Natural Wonders, Outdoor Activities, Heli-hiking & Glacier Flights

Holly Homestead (B & B)
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

12 – 13

Punakaiki

Hydrangea Cottages
Punakaiki Resort

13 – 15

Nelson
Highlights: Outdoor Adventures, Boulder Bank, World of Wearable Art & Classic Cars Museum

Balmoral Motel
Shelbourne Villa

15 – 16

Kaikoura
Highlights: Marine Life & Birds, Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, Crayfish & Seafood

Bella Vista Motel Kaikoura
Lemon Tree Lodge

16 – 17

Akaroa
Highlights: French Colonial Architecture, Dolphin Spotting, Watersports

Akaroa FyrneBrooke House
French Bay House

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Sample Itinerary

Day 1 – 2

1 Night

Christchurch

Christchurch is a vibrant city with a rich English heritage nestled on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, bordered by the Waimakariri River and the Pegasus Bay. With innovative architecture, public installations such as the 185 Chairs, and international street art, Christchurch is undergoing an extraordinary urban regeneration. Explore Quake City, a space that showcases the aftermath of Canterbury’s recent earthquakes, Māori galleries that contain some beautiful pounamu (greenstone) pieces, and the International Antarctic Center with its interactive and educational exhibits. Hagley Park and Christchurch Botanic Gardens offer delightful green spaces within the city. Not to be missed is the hop-on-hop-off loop tram, a fun ride infused with commentary, to navigate the city’s highlights. For a more leisurely experience, go punting on the Avon River, passing through the heart of Christchurch, and sit back and relax on a gondola ride that offers stunning vantages of the Canterbury Plains, the Banks Peninsula, and the Southern Alps beyond!

Hotel options

The Quality Hotel Elms – Opt 1

Room Standard Room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

The George – Opt 2

Room Executive Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Day 2 – 4

2 Nights

Tekapo

Lake Tekapo is about three hours drive south-west of Christchurch in the Mackenzie Basin. The township faces north across the remarkable turquoise coloured lake to the mountainous drama of the Southern Alps. Lake Tekapo gets its intense milky-turquoise colour from the fine rock-flour (ground by glaciers) which is suspended in the water.

Included activities

Group Stargazing Tour in the Southern Hemisphere

Stargazing in the Southern Hemisphere: Starting your tour at Lake Tekapo’s lonely church at midnight, set out for Mount John Observatory, a few minutes away, listening to local tales. After a welcome orientation by your astrologist guides, soak in this unique experience amid the Gold Status Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. Learning about myths and legends surrounding celestial objects across global cultures, marvel at the spectacular night skies. Notice the Southern Cross, the haze of Milky Way, and Southern Hemisphere’s unique Magellanic Clouds. Get a closer look at distant galaxies and their features, thanks to powerful astro-binoculars, and telescopes. Sipping on hot chocolate, watch the moonrise cast shadows of the dramatic landscape, and silhouettes of the Southern Alps around. Alternately, considering bad weather, enjoy virtual reality and high-resolution images of celestial wonders on a projection screen at the Astro Café indoors. Later, relax on floating hammocks in the hot pools under the stars to a background of ambient space music, before returning to town. (Time of Day: 2030/2330/0000 hrs depending on the season; Duration: 2 hrs; Shared Activity; Fitness level: Easy; Please note in case of bad weather, the tour will be moved to the cafe indoors).

Explore Tekapo and Mount Cook on Your Own

Explore the magical lake Tekapo located in New Zealand’s South Island, one of the three lakes of the Mackenzie Basin. Depending on the season, you could choose from a variety of activities. Take a canoe out to the middle of the lake, go yachting or fishing in summer. Enjoy the ambiance of a winter wonderland when it snows, as you ski down the slopes of Roundhill Ski Resort or Mount Dobson. Alternately, sign up for adventure sports and later, head over to Tekapo Springs to relax in the hot pools. A little distance away lies the picturesque Mount Cook Village with the UNESCO-listed Aoraki, New Zealand’s highest peak located in the heart of Mount Cook National Park. Discover the beauty of the surroundings at your own pace by following the trails on foot or booking yourself a helicopter tour. End the day by stargazing at the nearby Mount John University of Canterbury Observatory. (Full Day; Self-explore Activity; No Guide; No Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy; Some activities like skiing are seasonal and won’t be available throughout the year; Please bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and sunglasses.)

Hotel options

Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo – Opt 1

Room Deluxe Lakeview

Meals Breakfast

Style Resort

Ranginui Bed & Breakfast – Opt 2

Room Rangi Suite

Meals Breakfast

Style Guest house

Day 4 – 5

1 Night

Oamaru

Oamaru boasts the country’s oldest public gardens, renowned Victorian architecture and two penguin colonies. Oamaru, the largest town of the Waitaki District, has a rich history and proud heritage, enriched by the passionate and perhaps quirky locals. Explore this heritage in the Victorian Precinct, where you will find, shops, galleries and traditional crafts within some of the Southern Hemispheres most complete Victorian streetscapes and19th century architecture. This heritage and history is proudly celebrated each November during Oamaru’s Victorian Heritage Celebrations. A new heritage experience is also nestled right in the heart of Victorian Oamaru, Whitestone City. This is a fun-filled and interactive experience that the whole family will love.

Included activities

Visit Blue Penguin Colony (Tickets Only)

Don’t pass up the chance to meet the planet’s tiniest penguins on your Oamaru vacation. Plan a day out at your own pace at the Blue Penguin Colony, which is tucked among the rocky cliffs of the seaside town’s old harbor area. Head out to Oamaru’s historic waterfront after a leisurely breakfast and make your way to the popular Blue Penguin Colony. You’ll be sure to spot them during the breeding season, hatching eggs, raising their chicks or molting. Young families, in particular, will love the new children’s play area, where children can learn and discover the secret world of these unique penguin species. Enter a specially-designed viewing room with nesting boxes where you can watch them go about their daily routines, without disturbing the precious colony. Guides at the research and monitoring center are always ready to enlighten you with information. (Duration: 2 hrs; Time of Day: Morning; Self-explore Activity; No Guide; No Transfers; Entry Ticket included; Fitness level: Easy; Please wear comfortable walking shoes).

Explore Oamaru and Moeraki Boulders on Your Own

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the North Otago Coast as you explore its famous attractions at your own pace. Head to historic Oamaru, the largest town of Waitaki district, known for its rich Victorian heritage. Stroll around the country’s oldest public gardens before you make your way to the town’s Victorian Precinct. Pop into the charming shops and galleries as you soak in the beauty of 19th century architecture. Stop by Whitestone City for an interactive experience of what the town was like during colonial times. You could enjoy lunch at your pick of fine restaurants and breweries in the area. Afterward, choose to head over to the penguin colony at the harbor nearby before driving down the scenic route to the famous Moeraki Boulders on Koekohe Beach. Walk around these mysteriously spherical stones that lie scattered across the beach. Capture splendid images of the gorgeous landscape before you wind up your day and turn back. (Duration: Full Day; Self-explore Activity; No Guide; No Transfers; Entrance Fees & Meals are not included)

Hotel options

Brydone Hotel – Opt 1

Room Superior Room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Valley Views Glamping Otiake – Opt 2

Room Station Peak Cabin

Meals Breakfast

Style Camp

Day 5 – 7

2 Nights

Dunedin

Dunedin, also known as the ‘Edinburgh of New Zealand’, is a charming city in Otago Harbor on the idyllic South Island. Blessed with unique landscapes and abundant wildlife, this quirky city also boasts a bustling center, and a vibrant art and culture scene. A hip university town known for its Scottish and Maori heritage, visitors can while away time at various well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian-style structures, including the Larnach castle and railway station, and numerous heritage building turned cafes. Outside of town, scenic roads take you past the busy harbor along dramatic hills with entire neighborhoods built on the steep slopes. Dunedin is a great base for hiking or cycling with several picturesque regions nearby. Explore the Otago Peninsula, a wildlife reserve and breeding ground for albatross, seals and penguins, dotted with beautiful beaches, rugged viewpoints, and quaint hamlets. Several walking or tramping tracks also welcome you to cut loose through shrublands and forested valleys around the city.

Included activities

Group Tour of Otago Peninsula

Explore the rich natural and cultural history all around Dunedin on this exciting trip. Discover the volcanic Otago Peninsula that stands on the easternmost corner of town, leading down to the valley and Otago Harbour. Home to a great many flocks of water birds and waders, this unique hilly and oceanside landscape is perfect for bird sightings. Take photographs if you wish, before taking a wildlife cruise. Have fun spotting sea lions, fur seals, Little Blue Penguins and the only mainland breeding colony of Royal Albatross on our planet. Visit the Larnach Castle, which stands on top of the peninsula. Built in the late 19th century, this is the country’s only castle and has recently been recognized as a national heritage building. Admire the spectacular views from the castle top, taking in the elegant architectural details, the sprawling grounds and gardens, as well as its fascinating history. Return to your hotel after sailing down the Otago Harbour on a leisurely cruise in the warm winter sun. (Time of the day: 1030 or 1130 hrs, depending on the season; Duration: 5 hrs; Shared Activity; Fitness level: Moderate; Please wear comfortable walking shoes).

Hotel options

Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin – Opt 1

Room Standard Room

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Distinction Dunedin – Opt 2

Room One Bedroom Suite

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 7 – 8

1 Night

Te Anau

Te Anau, with its breathtaking landscape, sits on the banks of serene Lake Te Ana, the second largest in the country. Known as the gateway to Fiordland National Park, this picture perfect town is located amid nature’s bounty with spectacular glaciers, endangered flightless takahe birds, limestone cave, beech forests, and majestic mountains all within easy reach. Hike the Kepler, Routeburn, and Milford tracks, explore the spectacular Te Anu glow worm caves, book a scenic flight, and indulge in fishing or kayaking at this outdoor paradise. Whether you are looking for authentic Kiwi cuisine or international flavors to tantalize your taste buds, the restaurants in Te Anau have something for everyone. Famed for its wild food, especially venison, lobster, and various other varieties of seafood, Te Anau has a selection of fine dine and casual eateries, some featuring live entertainment and al fresco dining.

Included activities

Group Day Cruise to Fiordland National Park and Overland Tour

Set off from Te Anau and travel along the lake to your cruise. Keep your camera handy to capture the special moments along the Milford Road. Enjoy the spectacular views while you traverse the Main Divide of the Southern Alps. Pass under the mountains through the Homer Tunnel, a long passageway created through solid rock. Hop onboard the cruise at Milford Sound, which will take you down the length of the ford and into the Tasman sea. Over the course of the next two hours, listen to your captain’s animated and informative commentary as you travel; you will sail past rock walls scarred by glaciers, gorgeous waterfalls, and the majestic Mitre Peak towering at a height of 1,692 meters. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, savor a mouthwatering buffet lunch aboard the cruise. Finally, it’s time to get off the boat and drive back to Te Anau or Queenstown. (Duration: 6 hrs; Time of day: 1045/1245/1445 hrs; Shared Activity; Self-drive).

Hotel options

Distinction Hotel and Villas Lake Te Anau – Opt 1

Room Lake View Hotel Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Resort

Blue Ridge B&B – Opt 2

Room Guest Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Guest house

Day 8 – 10

2 Nights

Queenstown

Queenstown is where adventure seekers head out to for a shot of adrenalin! The region’s dramatic landscape is wrapped around the scenic lakes, velvety mountains and valleys of the Southern Alps. Summer or winter, there’s always plenty to do along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and the slopes of the Coronet Peak. Arguably the bungee jumping and skydiving capital of the world, get ready to plunge down bridges, planes and hill tops. The fiord of Milford Sound, home to the rare black coral, seal colonies, penguins, dolphins and the Mitre Peak, is not too far away. Kayaking along Lake Wakatipu, camping at the Routeburn Track, jet-boating down the Shotover and Dart rivers, and skiing down Coronet Peak and The Remarkables are some of the city’s popular pastimes. Queenstown also forms a base for exploring South Island’s other adventure destinations, charming vineyards and old mining settlements around Wanaka, Glenorchy and Arrowtown.

Included activities

Group Tour: Dart River Jet Safari

Your tour begins at the boarding point on the Dart River, where you can hop onto a uniquely designed jet boat to explore the heart of Mount Aspiring National Park, just outside of Queenstown. Zoom past magnificent natural formations on the braided, turquoise blue, glacier-fed river systems, while soaking in the spectacular scenery around. Listening to stories of Māori expeditions, and your guide performing exciting river spins, head into the picturesque Te Waipounamu World Heritage Area. Disembarking shortly after, take a walk inside ancient beech tree forests on the heritage Greenstone Trail, and learn about the myriad native flora and fauna. Later, board a 4×4 coach to explore the scenic backcountry, especially several Middle Earth locations including the Paradise Valley campervan site, used as a backdrop for the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies. Finally, en route Glenorchy, enjoy beautiful vistas of snow-capped mountains and native forests along the banks of Lake Wakatipu. Drive past horse stables, cattle stations, and pristine homesteads, before dispersing. (Duration: Full Day; Time: 0800/ 1200/1230 hrs; Shared Activity; Fitness level: Moderate; Please bring sunscreen, and a warm layer of clothing, and wear comfortable shoes.)

Hotel options

Heartland Hotel Queenstown – Opt 1

Room Standard Room with A/C

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Hotel St Moritz Queenstown – Opt 2

Room Alpine Suite Garden View

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

Day 10 – 12

2 Nights

Franz Josef Glacier

Welcome to glacier country! Explore Franz Josef (also Waiau), a small township perched alongside the Waiho river that serves as a gateway to the majestic Franz Josef Glacier. Surrounded by dense rainforests, secret waterfalls, suspension bridges, and tartare tunnels with glow worms, Franz Josef is a treasure trove of natural wonders, making it an ideal base to enjoy numerous outdoor activities. The area’s stunning beauty can be enjoyed through a number of ways – Scenic flights and heli-hikes over the West Coast glaciers, kayak tours on Lake Mapourika, glacier valley walks and more. Unwind at the natural hot pools found around the region. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the West Coast Wildlife Center which prides itself on its conservation efforts of the Rowi and the Haast tokoeka, two of the most endangered Kiwi species in the world.

Included activities

Group Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk

Begin your walk on the one-way Bailey bridge, and set out into the lush Westland Tai Poutini National Park that protects the famous Franz Josef glacier. During this leisurely experience, hop across streams, traverse rocky river beds of the Waiho River, and soak in the rainforest surrounds to a background of birdsong. Take short breaks to admire native flora and fauna, and a few gushing waterfalls along the way. You can also catch glimpses of the glacier, and a few peaks of the Southern Alps in the distance. Heading up the valley, see other dramatic natural formations such as schist boulders, the Split-Apple rock, and the Champness rock, while your guide shares local Maori folklore, as well as facts about glaciology and the region’s natural history. Upon reaching the viewpoint, sip on hot drinks and gaze into the terminal face of the Franz Josef glacier, glistening against the lofty rock walls. Back at Franz Josef town, relax in the glacier hot pools. (Duration: 3 hrs; Time: 1015 or 1415 hrs; Shared Activity; Includes hiking gear and entry to glacier hot pools; Please note this tour does not take you onto the glacier).

Hotel options

Holly Homestead (B & B) – Opt 1

Room Standard Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier – Opt 2

Room Standard Room -Graham Wing

Meals Breakfast

Style Lodge

Day 12 – 13

1 Night

Punakaiki

The stretch of land comprising Greymouth, Punakaiki, and Westport, situated along the West Coast of South Island, is a treasure trove of natural resources. Explore the diverse geographical features of this region, from snow-capped mountains to rainforests and from beaches to rivers to limestone formations. Visit the Paparua National Park near Punakaiki and the famous pancake rocks with winding walkways and “blowholes”. Greymouth is the largest town on the West Coast with spellbinding views of the Southern Alps. Visit Monteith’s Brewery here, one of New Zealand’s oldest, and Shantytown, a recreated 1900s gold mining town. Among places of interest at Westport are the coal museum, Hawk’s Crag canyon and cliff and Lake Rochfort.

Included activities

Explore Pancake Rocks on Your Own

Head out at your own pace to the scenic town of Punakaiki on this fascinating exploration of the famous Pancake Rocks. Make your way to Dolomite Point on the outskirts of town where you can see a cluster of naturally stacked limestone rocks that resemble pancakes! Stroll down the walkway to enjoy splendid views of these geological formations that are believed to have been formed 30 million years ago. Capture stunning images of seawater spurting out of several vertical blowholes at high tide before you wind up your walk. You could also head to nearby Truman Track that takes you through the subtropical forest to a vantage viewpoint over a scenic beach. After exploring to your heart’s content, you could browse the charming stores in town or enjoy refreshments at a local café before heading back to your hotel. (Duration: Full Day; Self-explore Activity; No Guide; No Transfers; Entrance Fees & Meals are not included)

Hotel options

Hydrangea Cottages – Opt 1

Room Mamaku Suite

Meals Breakfast

Style Guest house

Punakaiki Resort – Opt 2

Room Eco Suite

Meals Breakfast

Style Resort

Day 13 – 15

2 Nights

Nelson

A paradise for outdoor adventure enthusiasts, Nelson is blessed with breathtaking wooded hills, rocky headlands, and golden beaches. Boulder Bank, a dramatic eight-mile long natural rocky formation out at Nelson Haven, adds to the waterscape, and also has a lighthouse! Home to a vibrant creative community, the city is punctuated with a host of quirky landmarks. Visit the renowned World of Wearable Art & Classic Cars Museum that displays avant garde pieces and exotic automobiles under the same roof. Being one among New Zealand’s oldest settlements, Nelson’s Founders’ Heritage Park gives visitors an insight into the early European settlers in the region. Hike to the geographical center of New Zealand, which affords panoramic views over this coastal city surrounded by the Tasman Mountains and overlooking the serene Tasman Bay.

Included activities

Group Cruise to Abel Tasman and Tonga Island

Enjoy a wonderful day cruising along the gorgeous Abel Tasman National Park. Get ready for an activity filled excursion of kayaking, swimming and bush walks, with a visit to the lovely Tonga Island Marine Reserve. After breakfast at your hotel, take an exclusive boat cruise to this beautiful nature reserve on the South Island. Spot penguin and seal colonies, schools of dolphins prancing in the crystal clear turquoise waters, and other marine life at Tonga Island, not to forget the spectacular beaches around the region. Relish an elegant luncheon spread aboard the exclusive cruise ship, washed down with refreshing local beer and some of New Zealand’s best wine. Enjoy kayaking and swimming, or trekking along the coast if you fancy a bit of adventure. (Duration: 6 hrs; Time of Day: 1000 hrs; Shared Activity; Meals included: Lunch, snacks and refreshments, including beer & wine; Fitness level: Moderate; Please share any food allergies in advance).

Hotel options

Balmoral Motel – Opt 1

Room Studio Standard

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Shelbourne Villa – Opt 2

Room Garden Suite

Meals Breakfast

Style Homestay

Day 15 – 16

1 Night

Kaikoura

Enjoy delightful wildlife encounters, and crayfish delicacies at the dreamy coastal city of Kaikōura. Sitting on a dramatic peninsula, Kaikōura boasts a superb location between the snow capped Kaikōura mountain range and the Pacific Ocean. The Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, dotted with whaling sites and historic pā (Māori defensive terrace), offers stunning cliff top vistas from various viewpoints. Get up close to whales, fur seals, and dolphins in the coastal waters, or enjoy birdwatching tours and sheep shearing shows. The state-of-the-art Kaikōura Museum showcases the region’s diverse culture and is a hub of events and exhibitions. Located on the city’s outskirts is the Lavender Farm that cultivates over 50 varieties of lavender! One can experience the region’s pioneering whaling history at the pink Fyffe House, Kaikōura’s oldest surviving building!

Included activities

Group Tour: Dolphins Spotting in Kaikoura

Set sail into the waters of the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Kaikoura to watch dolphins in their natural habitat. These friendly mammals can be found in the coastal waters of Kaikoura all year round. Settle down in a comfortable spot on the boat that has been designed to ensure optimum viewing conditions. Watch the friendly dolphins indulge in acrobatics antics as they jump out of the water. Keep your camera ready to capture some stunning images of these beautiful marine animals in all their glory from vantage points on the boat. Listen to your tour guide explain how it is possible to interact with the amiable water creatures through a unique language that is a combination of singing and dolphin-like noises. (Duration: 3.5 hrs; Time of Day: 0530/0830/1230 hrs (Nov 1-Jan 31), 0530/0900/1230 hrs (Mar 1–Apr 30), 0800/1230 hrs (May 1-Oct 31); Shared Activity; Fitness Level: Easy. Please note that tours are dependent on weather conditions and times vary with season.)

Hotel options

Bella Vista Motel Kaikoura – Opt 1

Room Compact Studio

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Lemon Tree Lodge – Opt 2

Room Garden View Suite

Meals Breakfast

Style Homestay

Day 16 – 17

1 Night

Akaroa

The quaint harborside town of Akaroa sits tucked into the heart of an ancient volcano. With its Gallic vibe, this charming town continues to hold on to its roots as the country’s first French settlement. A popular stop on the cruise circuit, the town is replete with fine examples of colonial architecture, delightful galleries, and inviting cafes and restaurants. The many bays and sheltered harbor make Akaroa a promising destination for outdoor fun. From dolphin spotting boat tours to sea kayaking opportunities to visiting alpaca farms, there is never a dull moment here. Foodies can look forward savoring fresh seafood enhanced with ingredients such as olives, walnuts, and lemons that thrive in the rich volcanic soil and Mediterranean climate. Accompanied by fine local wines, these make for a flavorful gastronomical experience. Choose to stay in a traditional barn, a historic mansion, or at a winery to lend that unique touch to your holiday.

Hotel options

Akaroa FyrneBrooke House – Opt 1

Room Garden Suite

Meals Breakfast

Style Homestay

French Bay House – Opt 2

Room Mt Bossu Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Homestay

Price & Inclusions

Option 1

From $5,190 USD / person

Option 2

From $6,090 USD / person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes

Accommodation & meals as specified in the itinerary
Activities & excursions as specified in the itinerary
Transportation services as specified in the itinerary
Your Trip Coordination Team: Dedicated support throughout your journey, with a primary, personal point of contact. Plus, in case of emergencies while you’re traveling, our trip coordination team are available 24/7 by phone

Not Included

Entrance fees & meals, unless mentioned in the itinerary description
Tips & personal expenses
Visa & tourism fees
Travel, health and cancellation insurance
International airfare

What Our Guests Say

“Enchanting Travels took our dreams and made them a reality, getting us to New Zealand with adventures that were both urban and outdoors. Professional team and great spirit. We’re fans!”

November 2025 Rating 5/5

“I enjoyed how thorough the coordinators are in ensuring that you are able to experience as much as you would like within the time you have. My trip allowed me to explore 4 popular cities/towns in New Zealand (Auckland, Wellington, Nelson, Queenstown) and see some of the best sights and there’s no way that I would’ve been able to do this on my own.”

April 2025 Rating 5/5

“Enchanting Travels made our dream vacation to New Zealand a reality for us, from initial planning to pre-trip prep, and support throughout, they helped take the burden of trip logistics off our shoulders so we could focus on being present in each and every moment of New Zealand’s wonders.”

December 2025 Rating 5/5

“Our experience with enchanting travels was absolutely out of this world. We utilized their services to plan our honeymoon to New Zealand and boy, did they deliver!! Rebecca, went above and beyond to ensure we were truly happy with our itinerary and that It included a good balance of excursions as well as relaxing on our trip. She was receptive to any questions or feedback we had. Our travel liaison, Emma, was there every step of our trip to make sure we were comfortable, never lost, and always had the answers to any of our questions. This trip was truly the trip of a lifetime and a bucket list trip for my husband and I. We would not hesitate to utilize their services for another trip and we would definitely recommend them to any of our friends and family.”

November 2024 Rating 5/5

“I have had experience planning group trips with dear friends and this was by far the most well planned trip I have had the pleasure of putting together. Kelly and Megan listened to all of our ideas and requests and followed through on every front. Knowing that our trip coordinator, Megan Cena was double checking all of our hotels and activities a couple of days before arrival made a huge difference. We were expected at all of the arranged accommodations, no surprises! The quality of the private small group tours we participated in was exceptional. The tour guides were top-notch. We traveled by bus, train,ferry, airplane and luxury van and every piece of our trip went beautifully. Also, one ferry was cancelled and Enchanting Travels was working right away to get us on the next ferry. Having contact with Megan throughout our trip was another plus- she would write every night to ask how that day had gone. A wonderful vacation!”

March 2024 Rating 5/5

“Enchanting Travels has again organized and supported a fantastic trip for us. I highly recommend them, especially if you are venturing into unknown countries where English is not the primary language.”

November 2023 Rating 5/5

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Luxury Travel. Your Way.

Ideal For

Sample Itinerary

Thank You for Inquiring

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 – 2

Day 2 – 4

Day 4 – 5

Day 5 – 7

Day 7 – 8

Day 8 – 10

Day 10 – 12

Day 12 – 13

Day 13 – 15

Day 15 – 16

Day 16 – 17

Christchurch

Tekapo

Oamaru

Dunedin

Te Anau

Queenstown

Franz Josef Glacier

Punakaiki

Nelson

Kaikoura

Akaroa

Price & Inclusions

Option 1

Option 2

Price Includes

Not Included

What Our Guests Say

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