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This curated 8-day South Island itinerary is made for travellers who seek both adventure and elegance in equal measure. Starting in Queenstown, embrace thrilling activities like jetboating and helicopter rides, followed by gourmet wine tasting and a soak in cliffside hot pools. Cruise through the majestic Milford Sound, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, before journeying north to Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak.
Continue the romance in Lake Tekapo, home to stargazing experiences and rejuvenating spa treatments with mountain views. In Christchurch, discover a relaxed city blending gardens and Gothic architecture, before boarding the iconic TranzAlpine train—one of the world’s great scenic railways. The journey winds through to Franz Josef, where glaciers and geothermal pools await.
Round out your trip in Wanaka with a lakeside lunch and picturesque drive back to Queenstown. With its mix of natural beauty, serene moments, and optional add-ons, this itinerary is ideal for couples, solo travellers, and anyone wanting to experience the best of the South in comfort.
Upon arrival at Queenstown Airport, enjoy a private transfer to your accommodation. Settle into this alpine hub known for its dramatic landscapes and sparkling lake. This afternoon, take the Skyline Gondola up Bob’s Peak for stunning views over Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables mountain range. Optional: add a welcome drink at the mountaintop bar or a relaxing evening lakeside.
Accommodation: Queenstown hotel or boutique lodge, such as Hotel St Moritz or similar
Today’s full-day tour takes you into Fiordland National Park, one of the most spectacular places in the world. Travel by coach or optional scenic flight to Milford Sound, where you’ll board a nature cruise. Glide past towering peaks and dramatic waterfalls, with the chance to spot seals, dolphins, and rare birds. Enjoy a picnic lunch onboard before returning to Queenstown. This evening, consider an optional cruise on Lake Wakatipu for sunset views.
Accommodation: Queenstown hotel or boutique lodge, such as Hotel St Moritz or similar
Choose your own adventure today in Queenstown. Start with a morning adrenaline experience—perhaps the Shotover Jet, bungy jump, or a helicopter flight over the Remarkables. Later, slow the pace with a visit to Gibbston Valley for wine tasting in stunning surrounds. The day ends with a luxurious soak at the Onsen Hot Pools, overlooking the Shotover River. Optional: upgrade to a private candlelit session with drinks and snacks.
Accommodation: Queenstown hotel or boutique lodge, such as Hotel St Moritz or similar
Depart Queenstown for a breathtaking drive through Lindis Pass and along Lake Pukaki to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. Check in to your alpine accommodation and enjoy the afternoon exploring walking tracks or simply soaking in the views. Tonight, join a guided stargazing tour under some of the darkest skies in the Southern Hemisphere—a highlight for romantics and nature lovers alike.
Accommodation: Mount Cook village lodge or alpine retreat, such as Hermitage Hotel or similar
Travel from Mount Cook to the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, where the Church of the Good Shepherd offers postcard-perfect photo opportunities. Visit Tekapo Springs for a couples’ spa treatment with a view, or take a relaxing soak in the hot pools. Continue your journey to Christchurch, arriving in the afternoon with time to explore the gardens or riverside promenade.
Accommodation: Christchurch hotel, such as The George or similar
Board the TranzAlpine early this morning for one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. Cross the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps to the wild West Coast, arriving in Greymouth. From here, transfer by private vehicle to Franz Josef Glacier. Check into your lodge and unwind with an evening visit to the Glacier Hot Pools, surrounded by rainforest.
Accommodation: Franz Josef lodge or boutique hotel, such as Te Waonui Forest Retreat or similar
Depart Franz Josef for Queenstown via the stunning southern lakes route. Stop at Lake Matheson for morning reflections and photo stops before continuing to Wanaka for a scenic lakeside lunch. This charming town offers beautiful views, boutique shops, and a peaceful vibe. In the afternoon, drive over the Crown Range back to Queenstown. Tonight, enjoy your final evening in the South Island at leisure.
Accommodation: Queenstown hotel or boutique lodge, such as Hotel St Moritz or similar
After breakfast, a private transfer will take you to Queenstown Airport for your onward flight. If you’re not ready to leave, ask us about extending your stay in Fiordland, Central Otago wine country, or even the North Island.
Price & Availability
All bookings are subject to availability at the time of your request. Once we receive your booking enquiry, we’ll confirm availability within 24 hours.
Prices are quoted in Australian Dollars (AUD). If your package includes services priced in other currencies, currency conversion will be processed at midnight (AEST) each day. Please be aware that due to the constantly changing nature of exchange rates and supplier pricing, all package prices are subject to change until full payment is received and booking is confirmed.
Self-Guided Packages – Terms & Conditions
Our Self-Guided Packages are designed for travellers who want the freedom to explore independently, without the hassle of planning every detail. Each package follows a tried-and-tested itinerary that includes a combination of pre-booked services, such as accommodation and transport, and optional group tours or private experiences. You’ll have the flexibility to discover each destination at your own pace, with the confidence of having essential logistics taken care of and access to local support if needed.
Accommodation Flexibility
We understand that every traveller has different needs, so our itineraries offer flexibility in accommodation. You can choose from a range of hotels, from 3-star options to luxury 5-star properties, in most locations. If your first-choice hotel is not available at the time of booking, we will offer you an alternative of similar standard, quality, and location.
Travellers are welcome to customise their accommodation preferences before confirming their booking. If you’re unsure about the best options for your travel style, our team is happy to recommend alternatives.
Booking On Request
All packages are offered on request basis. In most cases, a deposit may be required before we can secure accommodation and services.
Once we receive your deposit and booking enquiry, we aim to confirm your package within 24 hours (longer if weekends or public holidays apply).
If your preferred travel dates are not available, we’ll suggest the closest alternatives or offer a full refund of your deposit.
Dynamic Pricing
Many of our accommodation providers and local suppliers use dynamic pricing models, which means prices fluctuate depending on factors such as demand, travel seasons, and availability.
Our listed “from” prices represent the lowest available rates based on low season travel with full availability. When you request a quote for your preferred travel dates, we’ll provide an accurate, up-to-date price based on availability at the time of quoting.
Prices may vary between the time we provide a quote and when you confirm your booking. Should there be any price differences, we will notify you before final confirmation and payment.
Itinerary Order & Availability
The order of your itinerary, including accommodation, tours, and transport, may be adjusted to secure the best availability and ensure a smooth travel experience. While we strive to follow the proposed itinerary as closely as possible, changes may be necessary, particularly during peak travel periods or when bookings are made close to your departure date.
For bookings made well in advance and outside of peak seasons, itinerary changes are uncommon. Any adjustments will be communicated to you in advance and are made with the aim of maintaining or improving the overall experience.
The final itinerary—including the order of your activities and accommodations—will be confirmed after your booking is secured.
Payment Terms
• A deposit may be required to secure your booking.
• Full payment is due no later than 45 days prior to your scheduled arrival date.
• If additional deposits are required by certain hotels or service providers, we will advise you at the time of confirmation.
• Your booking is not confirmed until full payment is received.
• Payments can be made via direct deposit, credit card, or other approved methods (merchant fees may apply).
Changes & Cancellations
• Your deposit is non-refundable once your booking is confirmed.
• Changes to your booking are permitted up to 45 days prior to departure, subject to availability and supplier approval. Additional fees may apply depending on the nature of the change.
• Cancellations within 45 days of arrival will incur a 100% cancellation fee, unless otherwise stated in your booking confirmation.
• Any rail tickets and flight tickets included in your package are non-refundable once issued and confirmed. These are subject to airline and supplier policies, which may include strict cancellation and amendment terms.
• We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect against unforeseen changes or cancellations.
Additional Information
• Please review visa requirements, health advice, and local regulations for your chosen destination prior to travel.
• We recommend allowing extra time for processing visas or travel documentation, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all bookings to cover unexpected events, including illness, cancellations, or delays.
If you’d rather chat, give one of our Travelcation Experts a call today to begin crafting your bespoke holiday experience.