
Experience the wonder and sights of the South Island with it's glaciers, mountains, fjords and wild west coast. See stunning tree studded river valleys, hike age-old glaciers, paddle over tranquil water and mountain bike, jet boat, bungee and para glide in New Zealand's extreme sport capital.
This tour may operate in either direction.
Day 1: Christchurch - Hokitika
Today we drive from the east to the west coast crossing over
great plains then over the dividing mountain range before entering the
lush sub tropical rain forests of the stunning west coast. We stop for
short walks at beautiful hidden locations along the way.
(Backpacker / Cabin Accommodation)
Day 2: Hokitika - Franz Joseph Glacier
The drive down the coast today is beautiful. We have several cultural activity
options before leaving for Franz Joseph Glacier along the coast of forests,
lakes and hidden beaches.
(Backpacker / Cabin Accommodation)
Day 3: Franz Joseph Glacier
Today we have many options. There are spectacular flights available
in both helicopters and ski planes. The flights offer unequalled views
of the mountains, valleys and glaciers and there is the option of a snow
landing depending on the trip you pick. There are also guided walks onto
the glacier and excellent light hikes available in the valley.
(Backpacker / Cabin Accommodation)
Day 4: Franz Joseph Glacier - Queenstown
We drive the remainder of the west coast and climb up through
the Haast pass into the Southern Alps . This is a stunning drive with
fantastic views of the mountains, rivers and lakes. Lots of great stops
to take photos today. Tonight we arrive in Queenstown for three full
days of fun and activities.
(Backpacker / Cabin Accommodation)
Day 5 - 7: Queenstown
Over these three days you have the chance to see and experience the extreme
activity capital of the world. There is simply no end to the fantastic line
up of activities including, bungy, mountain biking, kayaking, rafting, helicopter
rides, jet boats and paragliding. Also in winter you can ski at one of the
local resorts. There are also a huge variety of shops, restaurants and fun
things to see in town. On day one in Queenstown we will do a tour of the
area in the bus to orientate you on Queenstown and to show you the outer
areas like Arrowtown which is a quaint old gold mining town with lots of
history. After that you have two days free to enjoy the area and do your
own thing. An unforgettable place.
(Backpacker / Cabin Accommodation)
Day 8: Queenstown - Milford Sound
We drive through to Milford Sound to go aboard the Milford
Wanderer floating hotel fjord cruiser for your overnight cruise through
the fjords. This place is stunning with tall mountain peaks, waterfalls
and crystal clear water. You get to paddle a kayak over the tranquil
waters and to see fantastic marine life. During the winter months of
May to October this is a day trip only without kayaking. We also offer
the awe-inspiring Dart River Jet Safari as an alternative to Milford
for those who would prefer this in winter.
(Cruise Accommodation)
Day 9: Milford Sound - Omarama / Mount Cook Nat'l Park
After returning to dry land we drive up to Omarama near the
foot of New Zealand's highest peak, Mt Cook. The drive is over expansive
high country farmland with views of the Alps , rivers and lakes. Here
we have a last night out with all the gang before returning to Christchurch
. This night will be spent in Mt Cook National Park whenever possible.
(Backpacker / Cabin Accommodation)
Day 10: Omarama/Mt Cook- Christchurch
We swing into Mt Cook and hope to catch a view of this spectacular
mountain. There are wonderful lake views and photo opportunities galore.
From there we continue on to Christchurch and say our goodbyes.