Grand Pacific 10 Day Signature South Island

This morning board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. Travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges as you ascend to Arthur's Pass located in the centre of the Southern Alps. Board your coach and travel to Hokitika, famous for its Greenstone before continuing to the township of Franz Josef where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers.

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

• 4 Star Accommodation

  Only a breath away from the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier, in the heart of the village and edge of the Westland World Heritage Park, lies the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier offering everything you need to explore this dramatic region in style and comfort. The professional and friendly staff pride themselves on making your stay enjoyable and comfortable.

See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south along the West Coast to the Fox Glacier township. Continue via the Haast Pass, an area of stunning beauty before arriving into picturesque Queenstown, a year-round resort situated on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu. This evening is free to dine out at one of the many fine restaurants.

Staying in Hotel Millennium Hotel Queenstown (2 nights)

• 4 Star Plus Accommodation

  Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping and entertainment district, Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown Gardens. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel.  All rooms at Millennium Hotel Queenstown are designed for complete relaxation with its inviting bed and cosy ambience, it’s a good nights rest for sure.

Today is a free day to explore Queenstown. Your crew will assist with the many optional activities available. You may wish to enjoy the thrill of a jet boat ride or a heritage tour of the scenic Skippers Canyon. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a delicious gourmet barbecue dinner featuring a menu of seasonal, fresh and locally sourced food at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano as you cruise back to Queenstown.

Staying in Hotel Millennium Hotel Queenstown

• 4 Star Plus Accommodation

  Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping and entertainment district, Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown Gardens. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel.  All rooms at Millennium Hotel Queenstown are designed for complete relaxation with its inviting bed and cosy ambience, it’s a good nights rest for sure.

Enjoy a leisurely start this morning before travelling to Arrowtown, an old gold mining village where you visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland. Today you may like to visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves (optional).

Staying in Hotel Distinction Luxmore Hotel Lake Te Anau (2 nights)

• 4 Star Accommodation

  Conveniently located in the heart of Te Anau's town shopping centre and a short stroll from the South Island’s largest lake - Lake Te Anau. Escape into the serene surroundings of Distinction Luxmore Hotel before heading out to explore the world-famous beauty of Fiordland including Milford Sound. Stay in rooms which are well appointed and modern with a Fiordland interior design theme. The hotel offers an excellent standard of service and the team at Distinction Luxmore will make your stay in Te Anau comfortable and enjoyable.

Depart Te Anau for a fascinating drive to Milford Sound where you board your launch for a cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy lunch onboard. This afternoon return to Te Anau where some free time is available. You might like to cap off your Fiordland experience by watching the breathtaking film, Ata Whenua - Shadowland, which screens at the Fiordland Cinema (optional).

Staying in Hotel Distinction Luxmore Hotel Lake Te Anau

• 4 Star Accommodation

  Conveniently located in the heart of Te Anau's town shopping centre and a short stroll from the South Island’s largest lake - Lake Te Anau. Escape into the serene surroundings of Distinction Luxmore Hotel before heading out to explore the world-famous beauty of Fiordland including Milford Sound. Stay in rooms which are well appointed and modern with a Fiordland interior design theme. The hotel offers an excellent standard of service and the team at Distinction Luxmore will make your stay in Te Anau comfortable and enjoyable.

Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Dunedin known as the ‘Edinburgh of the South’ and enjoy a city tour. Travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle where you will hear of the tragic and scandalous history on a guided tour. Enjoy a delicious Devonshire Tea, and take time to wander around this Garden of International Significance.

Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Southern Cross

• 4 Star Accommodation

  The Scenic Hotel Southern Cross is Dunedin’s largest and most established hotel boasting rooms and suites with modern style, convenience and exceptional service. Just a short walk from the Octagon, railway station and close to Otago university, this perfectly located stylish inner city accommodation has everything you need for a relaxing and memorable stay.

Farewell Dunedin and travel to Oamaru famous for its limestone. Follow the Waitaki River and see Lake Benmore as you continue to marvel at Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available to enjoy a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the Southern Alps. Travel to Twizel for your overnight stay.

Staying in Hotel Distinction Mackenzie Country

• 4 Star Accommodation

  Located in the heart of the Mackenzie region, a unique area of New Zealand's South Island where mountains meet the riverbeds sits a true country oasis. The Distinction Mackenzie Country features natural stonework and architecture that beautifully reflects and compliments the surrounding landscape. The hotel offers comfortably furnished guest rooms all featuring their own private balcony or patio from which to soak in the glorious mountain views. Featuring natural stone, roaring fires and expansive lawns, the Distinction Mackenzie Country is the ultimate place to unwind after a day experiencing the activities and sights the region has to offer. 

Continue to Lake Tekapo, view the brilliant turquoise water, the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Sheep Dog Statue before arriving in Christchurch for a city tour. This evening enjoy a pre-dinner drink and reminisce on memories shared with your new friends at the farewell dinner.

Staying in Hotel Distinction Christchurch Hotel

• 4.5 Star Accommodation

  Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey, 4.5 star hotel offers elegant rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.

Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.