Discover the Beauty of New Zealand: 11-Day South Island Exploration Tour

Tour Overview

Explore the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of New Zealand's South Island on our unforgettable 11-day tour. From the rugged peaks of the Southern Alps to the pristine beaches of Abel Tasman National Park, immerse yourself in the natural beauty and rich heritage of this captivating region. Discover iconic landmarks, indulge in delicious cuisine, and embark on thrilling adventures as you create memories to last a lifetime. With expert guides and seamless logistics, let us guide you on a journey of exploration and discovery through the heart of the South Island.

Start Location Christchurch

End Location Christchurch

Top Highlights

Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise
TranzAlpine Rail Journey
Wilderness Gallery Hokitika
Monteith's Brewing Co. Tasting
Nelson Classic Car Museum
Abel Tasman Guided Walk and Barbecue Cruise
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
Cloudy Bay Estate Wine Tasting
Queen Charlotte Sound Cruise to Furneaux Lodge
Kaikõura Museum
International Antarctic Centre
Christchurch City Sights Tour
Nelson City Sights Tour

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An unforgettable journey awaits you

Embark on a travel experience that will stay with you forever. We offer a blend of culture, adventure, and tranquility, ensuring every moment is filled with wonder. Whether you’re seeking thrill or relaxation, we create journeys that are truly unforgettable.

The journey Begins

Signature Tour Style Coach

32 Premium Economy Comfort leather and cloth reclining seats. 2 + 1 armchair seating configuration for better panoramic viewing. Adjustable arm and headrests and seat belts. Individual seat back tray table, cup holder and USB charging port. Multi-media entertainment systems with three screens. 2 door access, restroom, air conditioning and electrical sockets. Cold water storage available. Complimentary daily onboard Wi-Fi allowance.
Day 1: Arrive Christchurch

On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink when you meet your Tour Leader and travelling companions for dinner.

Overnight: Christchurch

Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Christchurch - Akaroa - Christchurch

After an introductory city sights tour, enjoy a scenic drive to the historic French village of Akaroa, with time to wander through the charming galleries and craft stores. This afternoon set off on a Nature Cruise in the hope of spotting the rare Hector’s Dolphin and keep an eye out for penguins and other sea birds. Following your cruise, return to Christchurch where the evening is free to dine at one of the city’s many restaurants.

Overnight: Christchurch

Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Christchurch - Moana - Hokitika

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 before descending through the Otira Tunnel to Moana, on the banks of picturesque Lake Brunner. Enjoy lunch at Kingfisher Restaurant, before travelling to the Brunner Mine Site, the location of the 1896 mine explosion. This afternoon in the coastal town of Hokitika, visit a local gallery, for the opportunity to pick up a gift or souvenir.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Hokitika - Punakaiki

Today, take in the natural beauty of the Hokitika Gorge on a short walk descending through the hardwood forest that will lead you to a swing bridge which crosses the Hokitika River. Continue north to Greymouth, home of Monteith’s Brewing Co. where you will sample locally brewed beers over lunch. This afternoon travel along the Great Coast Road to the world-famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.

Overnight: Punakaiki

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Punakaiki - Nelson

Journey north along the coast to Tauranga Bay and Cape Foulwind, named by Captain Cook in 1770 when he encountered nasty weather. A short walk along the rocky headland will showcase the rugged coastline and sea life often on show amongst the rocks. Travel inland via the Buller Gorge and Murchison to Nelson, one of the sunniest cities in New Zealand. This afternoon enjoy an orientation tour of the city followed by a visit to the Nelson Classic Car Museum where you will marvel at an incredible collection of iconic cars.

Overnight: Nelson

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6: Nelson - Abel Tasman National Park - Nelson

Travel to Kaiteriteri, gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park and join a cruise along the parks’ picturesque coastline. At Anchorage Bay a barbecue lunch will be served. Re-join your coach and depart for Nelson via the vineyards. This evening is free for you to dine at one of the local restaurants in town.

Overnight: Nelson

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7: Nelson - Blenheim

Today travel via Havelock and the winegrowing region of Marlborough. Visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, home to one of the largest private collections of WW1 Aircraft, brought to life in sets created by the internationally acclaimed WingNut Films and Weta Workshop. Head back into town where you will enjoy lunch at a local Blenheim beer garden before a short drive to Cloudy Bay Estate. Established in 1985, Cloudy Bay was one of the original wineries in the region. Enjoy a personalised tasting experience followed by time to wander through the superb, manicured grounds and towering gum trees, which will surely be a highlight.

Overnight: Blenheim

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Blenheim - Marlborough Sounds - Blenheim

Enjoy a leisurely start to the day before travelling to Picton where time is available to explore this picturesque port. Board a luxury vessel at Picton Marina and cruise the spectacular Queen Charlotte Sound to Furneaux Lodge whilst enjoying the informative commentary on this stunning region. At Furneaux Lodge a delicious lunch will be served followed by time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. There is access to kayaks and short walks around the property. On the return cruise to Picton a cheese platter featuring local produce is served accompanied by a glass of Marlborough wine, the perfect end to your Marlborough Sounds adventure. Board the coach for the short journey back to Blenheim where the evening is free to dine at one of the local restaurants.

Overnight: Blenheim

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9: Blenheim - Kaikõura

Farewell the Marlborough region and journey to Kaikõura. Visit the Kaikõura Museum, which features an exhibition depicting the impact of the 2016 earthquake. This afternoon you may like to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the coastline to see the many species of whales that migrate through this area.

Overnight: Kaikoura

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10: Kaikõura - Christchurch

Depart Kaikõura and head to Christchurch to visit the International Antarctic Centre, designed to provide an informative account of life in Antarctica. This evening enjoy a pre-dinner drink and reminisce on memories shared with your new friends at the farewell dinner.

Overnight: Christchurch

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11: Depart Christchurch

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

Overnight: Christchurch

Meals: Breakfast

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Availability:

Feb

Mar

Oct

Nov

Trip start	Trip End	Accommodation	Price	Inquire
Christchurch	Christchurch	Based on double occupancy (Airfare from Vancouver included)	$4,940 USD

We accept:

All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.

Valid for sale from now until 26 Sep 2023

Travel between 04 October and 30 June 2024

Pricing is based from Vancouver and add on from different Canadian Cities are available

**Pricing is starting from and based on availability. Certain high demand dates will result in higher pricing **

Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.

OUR KEY TO EARNING TRUST IS

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What’s Included

Personalised Meet and Greet on arrival
Return airport transfers in New Zealand
Professional Coach Captain
Tour Leader
10 nights 4 star accommodation
3 two night stays
Hotel porterage
1 rail journey
3 cruises
All sightseeing and prepaid attractions
Optional Activities
Signature Documentation Pack
Round-trip Airfare from Vancouver, British Colombia

What’s Not Included

Gratuities for Local Guides, Tour Managers, and/or Bus Driver
Items (attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary
Airfare unless specified as included within the itinerary
Taxes as applicable
Travel Insurance and Cancellation Protection (strongly recommended, ask us for a quote!)
Meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Tour Questions

The tour officially starts and ends in Christchurch, New Zealand. Travelers are met by a representative upon arrival at Christchurch airport on Day 1, embark on an 11-day loop through the South Island, and depart from Christchurch on Day 11.

This is an immersive 11-day "Southern Splendor" South Island exploration package showcasing New Zealand's diverse landscapes and heritage. The itinerary begins upon arrival in Christchurch on Day 1 and concludes after breakfast and an airport transfer on Day 11.

Key highlights include riding the world-famous TranzAlpine rail journey and taking an Akaroa Harbour nature cruise to spot Hector's dolphins. Additional experiences feature exploring Abel Tasman National Park, wine tasting at Cloudy Bay Estate, visiting the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, and touring the International Antarctic Centre.

The package includes round-trip airfare from Vancouver, BC, return airport transfers in New Zealand, and a personalised meet-and-greet upon arrival. It also covers 10 nights of 4-star accommodation, a professional coach captain, a tour leader, 1 rail journey, 3 cruises, and all prepaid sightseeing and attractions.

Exclusions from the package include gratuities for local guides, tour managers, and/or bus drivers, as well as travel insurance and cancellation protection (which are strongly recommended). Additionally, meals not specifically mentioned in the itinerary and applicable local taxes are not covered.

While the tours are suitable for all age demographics, the average age of travelers is typically 45 and older. This ensures a comfortable, well-paced, and companionable environment for mature travelers exploring New Zealand's scenic highlights.

Solo travelers can choose options to join most tours by paying a single supplement to secure their own private room throughout the trip. For those willing to share, a Twin Share option is offered for the majority of our tours, allowing you to room with another single, same-gender traveler to avoid single fees.

This tour features a low level of physical demand, primarily involving comfortable coach travel, short walks, and scenic boat or train cruises. However, you should inquire about any specific mobility restrictions before completing your booking to ensure the activities suit your needs.

Each passenger is allowed to bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag, with a baggage weight limit following airline and tour guidelines. Baggage handling is conveniently provided at the hotels included throughout your tour package.

Yes, the tour operators and partner dining venues can accommodate reasonable dietary restrictions such as food allergies, vegan, and vegetarian requirements. Guests are requested to inform staff of any specific dietary needs at the time of booking so appropriate alternative meal choices can be arranged.

Do you have more questions?

If you still have questions or need more information, feel free to ask! Simply fill out the form below, and our team will get back to you with the answers you need

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1-866-814-7378