South Island Discovery Tour
Tour Overview
This 9-day, 8-night adventure is your all-in-one guided exploration of New Zealand’s majestic South Island. Travel from Christchurch to Hanmer Springs, Arthur’s Pass, Greymouth, Punakaiki, Hokitika, Franz Josef Glacier, Wanaka, Queenstown, Twizel, Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo, and back to Christchurch. Discover alpine beauty, glacier walks, thermal pools, and thrilling scenic drives with experienced guides and comfortable transport.
- Duration: 9 Days 8 Nights
- Vehicle: Toyota Prius, Alpha, Toyota Alphard, Toyota Hiace, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Mini Bus
- Guide: German, Chinese, French, Japanese, English, Korean & Hindi Speakers
- Note: 10 hours service per day. $130NZD per hour for overtime fee
Highlights
- Christchurch City & Airport Tour
- Hanmer Springs hot pools
- Arthur's Pass and alpine landscapes
- Punakaiki Pancake Rocks
- Franz Josef Glacier exploration
- Wanaka lakeside beauty
- Queenstown adventure activities
- Optional Milford Sound cruise
- Mount Cook National Park
- Lake Tekapo and Church of the Good Shepherd
What's Included
- Professional Driver
- Specialized Guide
- Private Transport
- Clean and comfortable vehicle
- Meet & Greet
Not Included
- Food
- Activities
- Tickets
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Christchurch Airport & City Tour
Arrival in Christchurch and local sightseeing tour.
Day 2: Christchurch – Hanmer Springs – Christchurch
Day trip to Hanmer Springs for hot pools and alpine views.
Day 3: Christchurch – Arthur’s Pass – Greymouth
Scenic mountain route through Arthur’s Pass to Greymouth.
Day 4: Greymouth – Punakaiki – Hokitika – Franz Josef
Visit Pancake Rocks, Hokitika’s artisans, and end in glacier town Franz Josef.
Day 5: Franz Josef
Free day for glacier hikes, flights, or relaxing in hot pools.
Day 6: Franz Josef – Wanaka – Queenstown
Drive from West Coast glaciers to Wanaka and Queenstown.
Day 7: Queenstown or Milford Sound Trip
Choose to explore Queenstown or take a cruise at Milford Sound.
Day 8: Queenstown – Twizel
Drive through scenic routes and lakes toward Twizel.
Day 9: Twizel – Mount Cook – Lake Tekapo – Christchurch
Final scenic stretch through Mt. Cook and Lake Tekapo back to Christchurch.