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Explore The Southern Drift for 10 days with Inspiring Journeys and discover unforgettable experiences - Photo 2

The Southern Drift

-10%

Country:

New Zealand

Flight:

Not included

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Tour id:

305413

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  • Operator:

    Inspiring Journeys

  • Length:

    10 days

  • Group size:

    16 pax

  • Age:

    12 to 99

  • Difficulty:

    Difficulty levels:
    • Relaxing
    • Easy
    • Moderate
    • Serious
    • Heart-pumping
  • 22.10-31.10.25 scheduled icon
  • 12.11-21.11.25 scheduled icon
  • 18.03-27.03.26 guaranteed icon

Discover New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures. From the vibrant city of Christchurch to the serene shores of Lake Ohau. Wander through charming historic towns from Cromwell to Arrowtown. Sample world class wines and delight in gourmet cuisine amidst the beauty of native flora and fauna.

Tour program

Day 1

Welcome to Christchurch

Upon your arrival in Christchurch, travel to your hotel by private car transfer. Join your Journey Director for a Welcome Reception with local wine and canapés.
Begin your day by exploring Christchurch's buzzing city sights before journeying to the brilliant bright blue waters of Lake Tekapo. You'll visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, which was built in 1935, and the first church in the Mackenzie Basin. Continue your adventure to the exquisite Mt. Cook Lakeside Retreat, where you'll indulge in a High Tea complemented by local sparkling wine and the majestic views of Lake Pukaki. Here, you'll meet the owners, Kaye and Luke Paardekooper, who will share the inspiring story of how they transformed this wild and rugged landscape into an alpine sanctuary on the edge of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Conclude your day at the charming Lake Ohau Lodge, nestled in the Mackenzie High Country and surrounded by breathtaking wilderness. The Main Lodge boasts a cozy open fire and expansive windows with stunning views of the lake, providing the perfect setting to unwind before a family-style dinner with wine.
Travel through Lindis Pass to Cromwell. Visit Mrs. Jones Orchard for fresh produce, then explore the Highlands Museum, a paradise for car enthusiasts and novices alike. Enjoy a special wine tasting experience and delicious lunch at Gibbston Valley's Kinross cellar door. Continue your journey to Arrowtown, a charming village with a rich gold rush heritage, before reaching scenic Queenstown for the night.
Today, explore Queenstown at your own pace. Why not sit back and enjoy a peaceful cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard New Zealand’s oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak Station (own expense). As the day winds down, prepare for an unforgettable evening at the Bathhouse, an elegant dining establishment spectacularly situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Savour a sumptuous meal while taking in vast, serene lakeside view, creating a perfect finale to your day.
Start the day with a journey along the Devil's Staircase, with its dramatic landscapes leading you to the charming town of Te Anau. Here, you'll enjoy a delightful lunch at a local farm, immersing yourself in the authentic flavors and hospitality of the region. Continue your adventure through the World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park sighting glaciers, and mountain ranges en route to the amazing Mirror Lake before driving through the hand-hewn Homer Tunnel. Spend the night aboard the iconic Milford Mariner and wake up in one of the most beautiful places on earth. The cruise style is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to view the fiord’s spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains, and diverse wildlife such as seals, penguins, and dolphins. Hear from the specialist nature guide on board or choose to explore the shoreline by kayak or tender. The Milford Mariner offers the facilities of a larger ship while retaining the intimate atmosphere of a small ship. Onboard facilities are made up of spacious viewing decks, a dining saloon with fully licensed bar, as well as an observation lounge. Dining included in your cruise are hors d’oeuvres followed by a three-course buffet meal, as well as a choice between continental or a cooked breakfast.
Depart the serene beauty of Fiordland National Park and journey to the picturesque town of Wānaka, nestled amidst the majestic Southern Alps and gracing the shores of Lake Wānaka. This idyllic town offers a perfect blend of natural splendour and leisurely pursuits. As the day concludes, savour a delightful dinner accompanied by wine, set against the tranquil backdrop of Lake Wānaka.
Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Wānaka, passing the quiet waters of Lake Hawea and the picturesque settlement of Makarora – a hikers hub surrounded by vast alpine scenery and river valleys of lush temperate rainforest. Continue to the West Coast town of Haast, full of diverse landscapes that will captivate your senses. Experience a Haast River jet boat adventure, gliding through pristine waterways surrounded by breathtaking wilderness. This exhilarating ride offers a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty. Arrive in Franz Josef and settle into the splendid Te Waonui Forest Retreat. In the evening, indulge in a sumptuous dinner accompanied by wine, enveloped by the serene ambiance of this forest sanctuary.
Begin your day at a leisurely pace, soaking in the spectacular surroundings of Franz Josef. Explore this captivating region with a local guide, who will illuminate the wonders of its majestic glaciers, verdant rainforests, and uniquely varied landscapes. After a day of immersive discovery, return to the calm respite of Te Waonui Forest Retreat, where you can unwind and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
Depart Franz Josef for Hokitika, where you will go on an informative walking tour led by a local history expert. Learn about the West Coast's rich heritage, including shipwrecks, gold miners, and pounamu hunters. Then, enjoy a scenic TranzAlpine ride from Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch, marveling at the Southern Alps' breathtaking scenery. Conclude with a Celebration Dinner in Christchurch, toasting to your unforgettable journey.
As your extraordinary journey draws to a close, enjoy a seamless transfer to Christchurch Airport. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories made during your exploration of New Zealand.

Tour Details

accommodation

9 Nights premium and authentic accommodation


Flights are not included.

Experienced Driver Guide & local Guides


Insurance is not included. Travel insurance is required for this tour. Please make sure you are adequately covered.
  • 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
  • 9 Breakfast (B)
  • 6 Dinner (D)
  • 1 High Tea (HT)
  • 2 Lunch (L)
  • Small group (average 16 guests) 17 included meals (9 breakfasts, 1 High Tea, 1 lunch, 7 dinners) 9 Nights premium and authentic accommodation

Highlands Taxi

Experience the luxury and power of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo with the Highlands Taxi, as our expert drivers take you on a thrilling ride through our 4.1KM track at speeds of up to 180km an hour.

Adults NZ$ 75.00

Highlands Super Dash

The Highlands Supercar Fast Dash is a true bucket-list experience. Take on the challenging turns of our world-class circuit in a high-performance Supercar with our professional driver by your side for an unforgettable ride in the 4WD 610 HP Lamborghini Huracán reaching 100Kph in 3.1 seconds and a top speed of 225Kph on the race track.

Adults NZ$ 199.00


Pure Glenorchy - Lord Of The Rings Scenic Tour

Lord of The Rings Scenic Tour: Visit the stunning locations from The Lord of The Rings. Encounter lsengard, Lothlorien Forest, The Misty Mountains, Ithilien and many more. Experience the absolute beauty of the Dart River Valley and our closest world heritage area. Learn about the remarkable history and unique culture of Glenorchy. Our tour feature’s some of the world’s most spectacular scenery visiting Mt. Aspiring World Heritage Area, Glenorchy, The Dart River Valley and Paradise. Encounter ancient beech forest, braided rivers and glacier carved valleys.

Adults NZ$ 199.00

Children NZ$ 105.00

  • Journey down the Haast River in a fully enclosed jet boat, and discover the remarkable glacial valley where temperate rainforest thrives.
  • See lush rainforests, thundering waterfalls and interesting wildlife while aboard the Milford Mariner. Explore Haast River by jetboat and view snowcapped peaks from your TranzAlpine train journey.
  • Low level of fitness required
  • Delve deep into the natural wonders of Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, with specialist nature guides sharing their knowledge of this mystical landscape.
  • Learn about Franz Josef’s majestic glaciers and the history and geology of Milford Sound from specialist local guides. Discover historical landmarks like the Church of the Good Shepherd and Arrowtown's gold rush heritage.
  • Join a behind-the-scenes tour at OCHO Chocolate, and embark on a culinary discovery of Queenstown.
  • Memorable culinary experiences await. Highlights include a wine tasting at a boutique cellar door, a decadent High Tea at Mt. Cook Lakeside Retreat and plenty of dining amidst breathtaking views.
  • Take a dip in the Franz Josef/Waiau local geothermal hot pools and relax and rejuvenate after a day of discovering the South’s natural wonders.
  • Spend a night on the Milford Mariner, cruising on 'the eighth wonder of the World', rejuvenate at Te Waonui Forest Retreat, and slow down at the idyllic Edgewater Lake Wānaka Hotel.
  • Comfortable walking shoes Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat Warm layers in cooler months, and a waterproof layer Camera A sense of adventure

Other activities and services are not included. 

  • Day 1 – flights to arrive prior to 4.00pm into Christchurch AirportDay 10 – flights to depart anytime from Christchurch Airport Return airport to hotel transfers are included in the price. Flights to and from the start/end of your trip are not included in the price.

Good to know

Currency

$

New Zealand Dollar

New Zealand

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Plug type I

Customer reviews

Operator

4.4

Faq Tour

How can I book a tour?
You can order a tour on our website by selecting the desired dates and clicking the “Confirm dates” button. You can also contact our sales department by phone or email.
Which payment options are available?
We accept credit cards, bank transfers and other popular payment methods.
Can I change or cancel my reservation?
Yes, changes or cancellations are possible, however penalties may apply depending on the time before the tour starts.
What documents are required to participate in the tour?
You will need a passport with a valid visa (if required) to visit countries along the tour route.

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