Departing Christchurch, we travel across the scenic Canterbury Plains into the breathtaking Mackenzie Country. Along the way, we’ll stop at Lake Tekapo to admire its vivid turquoise waters and visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd - perfect for a photo or two.
Our journey continues to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, where we’ll stretch our legs on a relaxed walk along the stunning Hooker Valley Track. This rewarding hike offers sweeping views of glaciers on Mt Sefton and The Footstool, as well as the awe-inspiring south face of Aoraki/Mt Cook - the tallest peak in New Zealand. Includes lunch and dinner.
Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is home to Australasia’s tallest peak, the mighty Aoraki / Mt Cook soaring above at 3724m. The iconic Hermitage Hotel is nestled in the shadow of this imposing peak and is ideally located for exploring the Park’s many walks, hikes and adventures. Enjoy the views with a barista-made coffee or visit the Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre museum and planetarium, before resting tonight in your comfortable ensuite room.
Today’s adventure takes us up the legendary 2,200 steps to Sealy Tarns, where we’ll pause to soak in sweeping views of the Hooker and Mueller Glaciers and along with the ice-carved peaks of Aoraki Mt Cook.
If conditions allow, we’ll continue higher onto the Sealy Range and along the ridge to Mueller Hut. Before descending, we’ll rest and enjoy the incredible reward - breathtaking 360-degree views of glaciers, ice cliffs, and the towering rock faces of New Zealand’s highest mountains.
For those seeking a different kind of thrill, this afternoon offers the option to join the Glacier Explorers boat tour on Tasman Glacier Lake - a remarkable experience that brings you up close to New Zealand’s longest glacier. If you’d like to add this option to your tour, please let us know at the time of booking. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Enjoy a second night at the iconic Hermitage Hotel located in the heart of Aoraki Mt Cook National Park.
Today, we head further south to make the most of the outdoor adventures this region has to offer. Our first stop is nearby Twizel, where you’ll be fitted with your bike for a ride along a scenic section of the renowned Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail. Pedal along peaceful canal roads, cross the Lake Ōhau weir, and follow a purpose-built track that winds around the shoreline of this stunning glacial lake. With breathtaking views at every turn, there will be plenty of time to stop, take photos, and soak up the turquoise waters and surrounding mountains.
We’ll arrive at our Lake Ōhau accommodation by bike and have time in the afternoon to relax, wander down to the lake for a swim or soak in the spa pool. Tonight, we’ll relax and enjoy dinner and accommodation at the welcoming Lake Ōhau Lodge. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Nestled against the hills, Lake Ōhau Lodge has a special reputation for high country hospitality and contemporary high-country food. From the lodge, enjoy panoramic views overlooking the alpine lake up to the majestic Aoraki Mt Cook. A restaurant, bar and spa pool will add to your experience of this uniquely Kiwi lodge.
Today we leave the Mackenzie Country behind and journey into the stunning Central Otago region. Our route takes us over the scenic Lindis Pass, offering sweeping views of tussock-clad mountains. Arriving in Wānaka, we follow the lakeshore road towards the dramatic peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park.
This afternoon’s hike takes us into the lower Matukituki Valley, where we explore Diamond Lake and ascend Rocky Mountain - a striking glacially carved formation known as a roche moutonnée (or “rock sheep”). From the summit, we’ll be treated to panoramic views over Lake Wānaka and out to the Southern Alps, including the majestic Tititea/Mount Aspiring. There are several trail options here, ranging from the gentle loop around Diamond Lake to the more challenging climb to Rocky Mountain’s summit - something to suit every energy level.
We’ll spend the next two nights in Wānaka, a charming alpine town with a vibrant lakefront atmosphere. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Situated a short distance from the stunning Lake Wānaka, Oakridge Resort is surrounded by beautiful mountains. Boasting 9 outdoor heated pools that are tastefully landscaped in rock and alpine tussock. Rooms are located on the 1st level with a balcony, rooms also include an ensuite bathroom and tea & coffee facilities.
Today’s adventure takes us trail cycling on e-bikes through one of Central Otago’s most striking landscapes.
We begin in "new" Cromwell, a town reborn after the original settlement was partially submerged in the early 1990s by the creation of Lake Dunstan - formed when construction of the Clyde Dam backed up the Clutha and Kawarau Rivers. From here, we follow the scenic Lake Dunstan Trail which winds around the Kawarau Arm to Bannockburn, a former gold mining area now celebrated for its vineyards and world-class pinot noir. A stop at a trailside winery offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy a cellar door tasting and a light lunch in a beautiful garden setting with panoramic views.
The adventure ramps up as we enter the dramatic Cromwell Gorge. The trail clings to rocky bluffs, crossing impressive boardwalks, cantilevered over the water from sheer rock faces, and a high suspension bridge - truly a cycling experience to remember.
Our ride ends in the charming historic town of Clyde, where there’s time to explore restored stone buildings now home to boutique shops and cafés. We return to Wānaka for a second night, full of fresh air and good cheer. Includes breakfast and lunch
Spend a second night at Oakridge Resort, minutes from Lake Wānaka.
Today we travel to the lakeside town of Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.
Our hike takes us through lush beech forest to the shores of Lake Manapouri, often described as the “loveliest of all lakes.” With its scattered islands, bush-fringed beaches, hidden coves, and a dramatic mountain backdrop, it’s easy to see why this lake captures the hearts of so many visitors. This walk offers the perfect introduction to the grandeur and serenity of Fiordland. We’ll take our time along the track, soaking up the natural beauty and stopping for photos.
We settle into our accommodation in Te Anau, where we’ll stay for the next two nights. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Te Anau is the gateway to the Fiordland National Park and home to the South Island’s largest lake. Situated on the lakefront, the Distinction Hotel and Villas offers chic, elegant accommodation and is only a short stroll from the Te Anau town centre.
Today is all about experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Fiordland. We begin with a stop at The Divide for a hike on the famous Routeburn Track. Climbing to Key Summit, we’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of ice capped peaks, alpine lakes, and deep glacially carved valleys.
We then continue to Milford where we’ll board a two-hour cruise through this awe-inspiring fiord, surrounded by towering cliffs that rise dramatically from the water’s edge. As we glide through the pristine waters, keep an eye out for playful dolphins, curious fur seals, and, if we’re lucky, the elusive Fiordland crested penguin. The serenity and scale of Milford Sound will leave you speechless.
On our return to Te Anau, we’ll stop at scenic lookouts for photos and to reflect on a truly awe-inspiring day. Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Stay a second night at the lakefront Distinction Hotel and Villas.
Before we say goodbye to Fiordland, we start the day with a visit to the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary. This peaceful reserve is home to a variety of native birdlife, including the rare and endangered takahē - a flightless bird once thought to be extinct. It's a chance to get up close with some of New Zealand’s most fascinating feathered residents while enjoying a final stroll by the lake.
We then travel to Queenstown, where we’ll enjoy a celebratory final meal. A chance to reflect, share stories, and toast to the incredible adventure we’ve had together. After brunch, we’ll provide a drop-off in Queenstown*. Includes brunch.
*Due to difficulties with the size of the vehicle combination and accessibility of many accommodations, drop off locations are limited to the Copthorne Hotel Lakefront, Rydges Lakeland Resort, iSite Visitor Centre (central Queenstown) or Queenstown Airport.
