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South Island Vistas, Fjords and Alps
Private tour

South Island Vistas, Fjords and Alps

nzNew Zealand
6 cities
12 days, 11 nights
Day by day
Places you explore
Recommended hotels
Landmarks & Experiences
Day 1 Christchurch

Arrival
Welcome to Christchurch, a vibrant city blending rich history with modern charm .

Upon arrival you are transferred to the centrally located hotel. The rest of the evening is free to enjoy the place on your own.

Breakfast included
Crowne Plaza Christchurch, an IHG Hotel
Crowne Plaza Christchurch, an IHG Hotel
764 Colombo Street, Christchurch, NZ, 8011
Standard Room, City View
1 room
Up to 2 guests
1 King Bed
27 m²
Breakfast not included
More amenities
Arrival: Private Airport Transfer Sedan
New Zealand Visa Processing Service
New Zealand Visa Processing Service
Day 2 Christchurch

Christchurch Discovery

Today you will embark on a captivating half-day tour that encompasses Christchurch's most iconic landmarks. Traverse the sprawling green expanse of the city, pay tribute at the solemn Bridge of Remembrance, wander along the vibrant facades of New Regent Street and of course admire Cathedral Square and ChristChurch Cathedral. As you journey through the city, engage with live commentary that enriches your understanding of Christchurch's history and the ongoing recovery efforts following the 2011 earthquake. Cathedral Square and ChristChurch Cathedral remains one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. 

Restoration work is ongoing, and it's a poignant place to begin your journey and understand the city's resilience. Culminate your exploratory adventure with an exhilarating cable car ride, offering elevated views that knit together the city's varied tapestry of natural beauty and architectural wonder. This tour is more than a cursory glance at Christchurch, it's an immersive dive into the city's resilience, culture, and scenic splendour. 

*Note: A complimentary tram ride is included in the package, making your travel experience even more unforgettable. Feel free to catch it during your free time!

5h
Highlights of Christchurch
Highlights of Christchurch
Day 3 Christchurch

Departure 

In the morning, you meet you private driver, who takes you to the departure point.

Tody you will embark on a captivating day-long odyssey aboard the TranzAlpine train, a panoramic journey that sweeps across New Zealand's picturesque South Island, linking Christchurch's east coast to Greymouth's rugged west. 

Departing from Christchurch, the train courses through the lush Canterbury Plains before ascending into the heart of the Southern Alps via the awe-inspiring Waimakariri River valleys. A brief respite in the alpine haven of Arthur's Pass allows you to absorb the majestic mountain scenery that envelops you.

The adventure culminates as the train negotiates the engineering marvel of the Otira Tunnel, emerging into the untouched beauty of New Zealand's West Coast. Here, you'll descend through dense alpine rainforests to reach Greymouth, the bustling epicenter of the South Island's western region. 



Crowne Plaza Christchurch, an IHG Hotel
Address
764 Colombo Street, Christchurch, NZ, 8011
Departure: Private City Transfer Sedan
Train from Christchurch to Hokitika
Departure
9 h
Arrival
Day 3 Hokitika

Arrival
Upon arrival you will be transferred to the hotel. The rest of the evening is free.

Breakfast included
Hokitika Fire Station Boutique Accommodation
Hokitika Fire Station Boutique Accommodation
9 Hamilton St, Hokitika, West Coast, NZ, 7810
Chief Henshaw
1 room
Up to 6 guests
1 Queen Bed and 2 Double Beds
120 m²
Breakfast not included
More amenities
Day 4 Hokitika

Hokitika Gorge and Lake Kanerie
Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the wonders of New Zealand's West Coast with our knowledgeable guide. Your day unfolds with as you immerse yourself in the natural beauty as you venture to the stunning Hokitika Gorge, where turquoise waters captivate the senses. 

The adventure continues with a visit to the serene Lake Kaniere, completing a day filled with enchanting landscapes and unforgettable experiences in this magical part of the world.

After the tour you return to your accommodation and enjoy your evening at leisure.



4h
Hokitika Gorge & Lake Kaniere
Hokitika Gorge & Lake Kaniere
Day 5 Hokitika

West Coast Treetop Walkway Tour & Departure to Wild South Westland


Today after check out you will be taken through to the majestic South Westland District of New Zealand on your drive south you will stop at the tree top work and wanfer through the canopy of the sub tropical rainforest.

Then pass through the rural dairy farms before entering into the Sub Tropical rainforest with its ancient trees, sweeping views and mountains you will arrive in the beautiful village of Franz Josef.

Hokitika Fire Station Boutique Accommodation
Address
9 Hamilton St, Hokitika, West Coast, NZ, 7810
2h
West Coast Treetop Walkway Tour
West Coast Treetop Walkway Tour
Car from Hokitika to Franz Josef
Departure
2 h
Arrival
Day 5 Franz Josef

Arrival

Upon arrival you will be transferred to the hotel. The rest of the evening is free.

Breakfast included
Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Te Waonui Forest Retreat
State Highway 6, Franz Josef Glacier, NZ, 7856
Deluxe Room, 1 King Bed
1 room
Up to 2 guests
1 King Bed
33 m²
Breakfast included
More amenities
Day 6 Franz Josef

Franz Josef Glacier Tour 

The magnificent Franz Josef Glacier is widely regarded as the gem of New Zealand's West Coast Glaciers, and one of the most impressive sights to be found anywhere in the world. 

Your tour is a wonderful combination of an exhilarating helicopter ride, jaw-dropping scenery and a two-hour hike through the most spectacular glacier features. 

Your journey starts at the glacier base in Franz Josef Village where you check-in and get the essential gear. From here, your guide leads you on a short walk through the native forest to the helipad and gets you ready to board the helicopter. 

Your pilot lands you high up on the glacier itself, where your guide helps you make the final preparations for your hike before you head off to explore the pristine features of this incredible icescape.

Take in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, capture stunning memories, and seize the opportunity to learn more about this magnificent ice giant. 

A unique adventure that will almost certainly be your most memorable New Zealand experience! 


4h
Franz Josef Glacier Tour
Franz Josef Glacier Tour
Day 7 Franz Josef

Departure to Wanaka

Today after breakfast private driver will pick you up and transfer to the next destination - Wānaka.

This trip tracks down the West Coast through the breathtaking Haast Pass, into the heart of the Southern Alps. 

You’ll travel through the spectacular glacier region, two national parks and past two of New Zealand's largest lakes, Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka. From coastal scrub, rain forest, glaciers and native bush, to alpine tussock lands, lakes and mountains - this road showcases the best of South Island scenery all in one go.

Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Address
State Highway 6, Franz Josef Glacier, NZ, 7856
Car from Franz Josef to Wanaka
Departure
4 h
Arrival

Description for connection

It is one of the most beautiful drives in New Zealand. This trip takes you down the West Coast through the breathtaking Haast Pass, right into the heart of the Southern Alps.

Day 7 Wanaka

Arrival

Upon arrival you will be transferd to the hotel. 

Enjoy leisure time in Wanaka with its serene lake, stunning natural surroundings, and breathtaking sunsets over the Southern Alps 

Breakfast included
Edgewater
Edgewater
54 Sargood Drive, Wanaka, NZ, 9305
Hotel Room
1 room
Up to 3 guests
1 King Bed
20 m²
Breakfast not included
Day 8 Wanaka

Departure

This morning, you will have time to enjoy Wanaka at your leisure. In the afternoon, your private driver will pick you up and transfer you to your next destination - Queenstown. 

Edgewater
Address
54 Sargood Drive, Wanaka, NZ, 9305
Car from Wanaka to Queenstown
Departure
1 h 30 min
Arrival
Day 8 Queenstown

Arrival
Welcome to Adrenaline Capital. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the centrally located hotel. The rest of the evening is free to enjoy the area on your own.

Breakfast included
Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
Corner of Earl and Marine Parade, Queenstown, NZ, 9348
Standard Room, 1 King Bed
1 room
Up to 2 guests
1 King Bed
26 m²
Breakfast not included
More amenities
Day 9 Queenstown

Milford Sound Small Group Tour
Experience the iconic Milford Sound in a unique and intimate way with our small-group tour departing from Queenstown. You will make multiple scenic stops for you to capture the beauty of this stunning region during the journey. Once we arrive, prepare to be awed on a 2-hour cruise along the fjord. Glide past awe-inspiring cliffs, beneath cascading waterfalls, and through mirrored lakes, all while keeping an eye out for fur seals and dolphins. Your local guide will enhance the experience, offering informative commentary about the region's natural history and rich biodiversity. Before heading back, relish the tranquillity of a beech forest with a leisurely stroll to stretch your legs. The tour concludes with a comfortable ride back to your Queenstown hotel, making this small-group tour a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and personalized exploration of one of New Zealand's most revered natural wonders.

12h
Milford Sound Tour
Milford Sound Tour
Day 10 Queenstown

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Embark on an enchanting journey through the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, where you'll glide past rushing underground streams and marvel at the mesmerizing glow of hundreds of glowworms.

Your adventure begins with a hotel pick-up, followed by a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau aboard our purpose-built vessels.

Upon reaching Cavern House, delve into informative displays about this geological wonder before joining your knowledgeable guide underground. Traverse the caves as our friendly guides highlight key features and share insights into their history.

Witness the awe-inspiring underground landscape sculpted over 12,000 years by the force of the river. Marvel at limestone passages adorned with sculpted rock formations, whirlpools, and a thunderous underground waterfall.

Venturing deeper, glide into a hidden grotto illuminated by countless glowworms, exclusive to New Zealand. Experience the dazzling spectacle they create in the subterranean darkness.

After the tour, relax as you're transferred back to your hotel, concluding your unforgettable exploration of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves. 

Full day
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Day 11 Queenstown

Departure to Christchurch via Mount Cook
This morning you check out and embark on a breathtaking journey from Queenstown to Christchurch, traversing the heart of New Zealand's dramatic landscapes. 

This scenic tour takes you through the majestic Southern Alps to the towering heights of Mt. Cook, New Zealand's highest peak. 

Along the way, marvel at the stunning Lake Tekapo, where the vibrant blue waters and the historic Church of the Good Shepherd provide unforgettable photo opportunities. 

Conclude your adventure with a drop-off at your Christchurch hotel, bringing you comfort after a day filled with awe-inspiring sights and unique New Zealand charm.

Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
Address
Corner of Earl and Marine Parade, Queenstown, NZ, 9348
Bus from Queenstown to Christchurch
Departure
13 h
Arrival

Description for connection

In the early morning, start your tour in Queenstown, passing key sights as you exit the city. Travel through Kawarau Gorge to the historic Kawarau Suspension Bridge for your first photo op. Next, traverse the vineyards of Cromwell, cross Lake Dunstan, and ascend the scenic Lindis Pass for panoramic views. In the Mackenzie District, spot Merino sheep before a stop in Omarama for a local treat.

Continue to Lake Pukaki, set against the backdrop of Aoraki/Mt Cook and the Southern Alps, ideal for photos. In Mt Cook Village, capture shots of New Zealand’s highest peak if the weather permits. Enjoy free time in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park for walks or optional activities like scenic flights.

Head to Lake Tekapo to visit iconic sites quickly, then pass through Geraldine on the way to your final destination, Christchurch.

Note: this small group tour is not available on Mondays.

Day 11 Christchurch

Arrival
Welcome to the Garden City. Upon arrival private driver will pick you up and transfer to the centrally located hotel. The rest of the evening is free to enjoy the place on your own.

Breakfast included
Crowne Plaza Christchurch, an IHG Hotel
Crowne Plaza Christchurch, an IHG Hotel
764 Colombo Street, Christchurch, NZ, 8011
Standard Room, City View
1 room
Up to 2 guests
1 King Bed
27 m²
Breakfast not included
More amenities
Day 12 Christchurch

Departure
This morning after breakfast you check out and meet your private driver for your transfer to the airport for your departure flight

Crowne Plaza Christchurch, an IHG Hotel
Address
764 Colombo Street, Christchurch, NZ, 8011
Departure: Private Airport Transfer Sedan

What's included

Exceptional downtown hotel accommodations
Guided sightseeing tours with expert English-speaking guides
Delicious breakfasts at your hotels
In-depth exploration of best landmarks
In-depth exploration of best landmarks
Tickets and intercity transportation as per itinerary
Professional meeting services at the airport
Dedicated support team before and during your trip

Reviews

As you prepare for your travels, we proudly highlight our 99.8% customer satisfaction rate. Below are reviews from travelers who have enjoyed our award-winning service. Thank you for choosing us—your extraordinary journey awaits!
4.9 / 5
Excellent
962 Reviews
This was a dream trip for me, and they helped make it a dream come true.
The guides Firebird works with are top-notch.
We had a “trip of a lifetime,” thanks to Firebird.
I was extremely pleased with Firebird's personalized service.
nzChristchurch
2 nights
nzHokitika
2 nights
nzFranz Josef
2 nights
nzWanaka
1 night
nzQueenstown
3 nights
nzChristchurch
1 night