CHRISTCHURCH ARRIVAL

Christchurch - Welcome to Christchurch, the largest city in New Zealand’s South Island and the starting point of your Southern Crossing tour. Ōtautahi (Christchurch) is a lively city brimming with art, exhibitions, history, and hidden treasures. Visit the Riverside Markets for a coffee, drink, or snack, or take a leisurely walk through the botanical gardens.
This evening at 6pm, you’ll meet your Kiwi Experience Driver Guide and your new tour companions for a Christchurch Street Art Tour (included). This tour showcases street art, murals, and graffiti of various sizes, detailing the history of urban art and the city’s rise as an urban art hub.

CHRISTCHURCH TO FRANZ JOSEF

Arthur’s Pass National Park - Today, we journey from coast to coast over the Southern Alps, passing through Arthur’s Pass National Park, one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives. Arthur’s Pass features a landscape of contrasts: on the eastern side, we’ll traverse riverbeds and beech forests, while the western side boasts deep gorges and dense rainforests.

Devils Punchbowl Walking Track - Along the way, we’ll stop at the Devil’s Punch Bowl and the stunning Castle Hill.

FRANZ JOSEF FREE DAY

Franz Josef - The incredible Franz Josef is located in a world heritage area, where alpine scenery meets west coast rainforest, creating an epic backdrop for your free day. Today, you’ll have a unique opportunity to carve your own Pounamu (Greenstone) jewelry (included). You’ll learn about the cultural significance of pounamu as you engage in this authentic cultural experience and leave with your own special piece of Aotearoa New Zealand.

You’ll also have the chance to explore the Franz Josef glacier, a dynamic landscape of ice. Opt for the Heli-Hike adventure to walk on top of the glacier itself. For a free option, walk through the rainforest to a viewing area just 750m away from the icy wonderland.

FRANZ JOSEF TO LAKE HAWEA

Franz Josef Glacier - We start the day with a visit to the Franz Josef wildlife centre (included), home to the largest kiwi incubation and hatching facility in the South Island. You’ll be guaranteed to see a live kiwi in the open nocturnal house, as well as the Tuatara, a reptile unique to New Zealand.

Lake Matheson Walk - Next, we head to Lake Matheson for a refreshing walk around the lake, known for its perfect mirror reflection of Aoraki Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. The dark brown waters of Lake Matheson create an ideal reflective surface on calm days, perfectly capturing the mountains to the east.

Lake Hawea - We’ll then continue along the final stretch of Highway 6, stopping at popular scenic spots along the way, before arriving at Lake Hawea. Lake Hawea is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, offering opportunities for swimming, kite surfing, kayaking, biking, walking, or simply relaxing by the lake.

LAKE HAWEA TO QUEENSTOWN VIA WANAKA

Wanaka - A resort town located at the southern end of its namesake lake, with views of snowcapped mountains. It’s the gateway to the Southern Alps’ Mount Aspiring National Park, a wilderness of glaciers, beech forests, and alpine lakes. Be sure to check out #ThatWanakaTree and snap a photo of one of the world’s most photographed trees!

Kawarau Suspension Bridge - Visit the world’s first commercial bungy site – The Kawarau Bridge. Only the bravest travelers will dare to sign up for this iconic bucket list bungy!

QUEENSTOWN FREE DAY

Queenstown - Queenstown offers something for everyone, whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping adventures or a more relaxed exploration of the natural surroundings. Each season brings its own unique atmosphere, and most activities are available year-round. For thrill-seekers, options include bungy jumping, jet boating, white water rafting, and skydiving. For a more leisurely pace, rent a bike, take a stroll, enjoy a boat cruise, relax at a spa, or visit one of the many local vineyards.

MILFORD SOUND DAY TOUR

Milford Sound - No trip to the South Island is complete without visiting Piopiotahi, Milford Sound. Departing from Queenstown early in the morning, we’ll stop for breakfast and coffee in the charming town of Te Anau before continuing the breathtaking drive to Milford Sound, with scheduled photo stops along the way. Nestled within Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is renowned for its pristine wildlife, stunning geological formations, and captivating waterfalls. Enjoy a two-hour (included) scenic boat cruise through the inky black waters, keeping an eye out for dolphins, fur seals, and a variety of birdlife. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the endangered Fiordland Crested Penguin. After the cruise, we’ll return to Queenstown for the evening.

QUEENSTOWN TO CHRISTCHURCH VIA LAKE TEKAPO

Lake Tekapo - Marvel at the breathtakingly blue waters of the lake, framed by colorful lupins.

The Church of the Good Shepherd - Visit The Church of the Good Shepherd, situated on the shores of Lake Tekapō, surrounded by the natural beauty of the lake and mountains.

• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Breakfast
• All fees and/or taxes
• Accommodation (8 nights)

Spectacular scenery and lots of opportunity for adventure, this 8 day South Island adventure starts and finishes in the diverse city of Christchurch. Turquoise lakes, majestic glaciers, dramatic mountain peaks and the picture-perfect towns of Queenstown, Wanaka and Franz Josef are all a part of this epic road trip. With accommodation and some activities included (see below), our all-inclusive tours are hassle-free, authentic experiences for those short on time.

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.