South Island 6 Days Tour – MON. CHC-CHC

Take an early flight to the Garden City – Christchurch. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore the charm of Christchurch city: visit the iconic Cathedral Square, the tranquil oasis of the Botanic Gardens, and stroll along the Avon River. After lunch, depart for the famous stargazing town of Lake Tekapo. Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd by the lake and take in the serene beauty of Lake Tekapo. Tonight, enjoy "the world's highest-altitude salmon" – Mt. Cook salmon sashimi, nurtured by glacial meltwater. Thanks to the region's pure and cold water, the salmon is known for its exquisite flavor and unique texture. Stay overnight in a stargazing reserve renowned for its stunning night sky, offering opportunities to view the Milky Way and explore the mysteries of the stars.

Accommodation: Godley Hotel Tekapo, Distinction Mackenzie Twizel, Distinction Heritage Oamarama, or equivalent nearby hotels

*Free taste of world famous Mt Cook Salmon.

After breakfast, take a bus to Mt. Cook National Park, known as the "Southern Alps." Spend approximately 3 hours here engaging in various activities. You may choose to take a guided walk along professional trails to explore the park, ancient glaciers, and pristine glacial lakes. Alternatively, take a helicopter tour with a snow landing to walk on the snowy peaks. Later, continue to Queenstown, a popular resort destination. Tonight’s dinner features a special roast lamb dish. 

Accommodation: Mercure Hotel, Copthorne Hotel, or equivalent in Queenstown

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, spend the entire day at your leisure. Optional activities include visiting Glenorchy, a filming location for the epic "The Lord of the Rings," or exploring the charming Arrowtown, which evokes a bygone gold rush era. You can also visit Wanaka's famous "Lone Tree," witness this natural marvel, and capture unforgettable moments. Other activities include taking the Queenstown Skyline Gondola for panoramic views, a TSS Earnslaw steamship tour to Walter Peak Farm, ice bar experiences, skydiving, horseback riding, and more. Enjoy the town’s diverse culinary offerings, including the famous Fergburger, ice cream, chocolate treats, or a lakeside glass of wine..  

Accommodation: Mercure Hotel, Copthorne Hotel, or equivalent in Queenstown

After breakfast, head to the lakeside town of Te Anau. You may opt for a luxurious cruise on Milford Sound, often called the eighth wonder of the world. Experience the stunning fjord, carved by glaciers over 10,000 years ago, and view spectacular sights such as the largest national park in New Zealand, Mirror Lakes, and temperate rainforests. If not visiting Milford Sound, explore the glowworm caves in Te Anau, where thousands of glowworms create a mesmerizing scene, or enjoy jet boating and scenic flights over Lake Manapouri. Tonight's dinner includes a special feast of fjord lobster and New Zealand venison. The fjord lobster thrives in the cold, pure waters of the region, offering firm and sweet meat, while New Zealand venison is rich in flavor and complexity. Optional Milford Sound Cruise: Adult NZD 274.00 / Child NZD 164.00 (includes round-trip transport and buffet lunch on the cruise).

Accommodation: Distinction Hotel, Kingsgate Hotel, Fiordland Hotel, or equivalent in Te Anau.

After breakfast, depart for Dunedin, a city steeped in Scottish heritage. As the second-largest city in the South Island and the commercial and administrative center of Otago, Dunedin reflects many Scottish traditions. Dunedin is known as the "Edinburgh of New Zealand" and boasts scenic hills, a picturesque harbor, and well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Highlights include Otago University, the historic railway station, the world’s steepest street, and the First Church. In the afternoon, continue to Oamaru, stopping to marvel at the natural wonder of the Moeraki Boulders, formed 65 million years ago. Dinner features a unique rock grill experience. In the evening, watch the world’s smallest blue penguins gracefully return to their nests – a true marvel of nature.

Accommodation: Mercure Hotel, Copthorne Hotel, or equivalent in Queenstown

After breakfast, depart Oamaru and travel along the east coast via the Canterbury Plains back to Christchurch. Stop at Farmers Corner to visit and feed alpacas, getting up close with these charming animals. After lunch, guests will be dropped off at the airport. Please book flights departing Christchurch after 4:00 PM to conclude this perfect 6-day South Island tour.