8 places you sleep in over 13 nights. Select a place in the list to find it on the map.
1Overnight stop, in route orderVisited on the waySmall group vehicle with your driver guideStarts and ends in Christchurch. 8 overnight stops across 14 days, about 2,010 km of driving. Select a marker to open that day.
Overview
Guided tour, small group. A driver guide travels with you the whole way, in a smaller group and a smaller vehicle than a full-size coach.
Discover the best of New Zealand’s South Island in a small group on the Ultimate Coach. 14 days through the South Island, starting and finishing in Christchurch. Along the way: Christchurch, Punakaiki, Franz Josef. Every night is booked and the travelling is handled, so the itinerary below is what you actually do rather than a list of things you could arrange yourself.
On arrival into Christchurch you will be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink as you meet your travelling companions. Staying in Hotel Hotel Montreal (2 nights) 5 Star Accommodation Hotel Montreal, a longstanding 5-star gem in Christchurch, offers relaxed luxury in the heart of the city. Just steps away from the city’s excitement and the Botanic Gardens, it boasts the central city’s largest, fully refurbished rooms. Enjoy timeless décor, blending comfort and style, along with private balcony, vast wardrobe and tranquil lounge seating for a true home-away-from-home experience. Meals included: Dinner
This morning an introductory city tour of Christchurch will showcase its revitalised centre buzzing with energy. Continue to the International Antarctic Centre, where you will gain fascinating insights of life in Antarctica. Return to the city and enjoy a leisurely journey aboard the charming Christchurch Tram, a unique experience combining history and the city’s key landmarks. This evening is free for you to dine at leisure. Staying in Hotel Hotel Montreal 5 Star Accommodation Hotel Montreal, a longstanding 5-star gem in Christchurch, offers relaxed luxury in the heart of the city. Just steps away from the city’s excitement and the Botanic Gardens, it boasts the central city’s largest, fully refurbished rooms. Enjoy timeless décor, blending comfort and style, along with private balcony, vast wardrobe and tranquil lounge seating for a true home-away-from-home experience. Meals included: Breakfast
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 coastal town of Punakaiki. Staying in Hotel Scenic Hotel Punakaiki 4 Star Accommodation Situated in Paparoa National Park just 300 metres from the magnificent Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, Scenic Hotel Punakaiki offers comfortable, environmentally friendly accommodation. Enjoy beach views, spacious & modern studio units with an ensuite. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning explore the world-famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Continue south to Greymouth, home of Monteith’s Brewing Co. where you will sample craft beers over lunch. Board your coach and travel to Hokitika, famous for its Greenstone before arriving at the township of Franz Josef where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers. Staying in Hotel Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef 5 Star Accommodation Legacy Te Waonui Hotel Franz Josef is truly luxurious and can be found in an area of native rainforest which has been carefully preserved. All the guest room balconies look out into the rainforest, which contains mature trees up to 20m high. Guests get a real sense of seclusion and privacy during their stay. Lavishly appointed guest rooms, generously proportioned and featuring the highest standard of room amenities, such as your own personal pillow menu, natural wool mattress underlay and high-speed Internet access. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Marvel at the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you journey south through the breathtaking Haast Pass. Arrive in picturesque Queenstown, a year-round resort set on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu. A leisurely 3-night stay allows you to slow the pace and take time to explore this incredible natural playground. Staying in Hotel Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown (3 nights) 4 Star Plus Accommodation Queenstown, New Zealand’s mountain playground, is one of the great alpine regions of the world and the charming Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown Hotel calls this place home - the resort offers a hotel experience certain to leave you breathless. Set on the scenic slopes of Ben Lomond Mountain, Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown offers an alpine charm. Crafted from centuries-old schist stone and cedar, this comfortable and sophisticated Queenstown hotel is the perfect place to relax. Unwind in a room where timeless charm meets contemporary comfort with all the essentials thoughtfully considered making every stay feel effortlessly relaxed. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, take in the spectacular sights of Queenstown. Begin with a visit to Arrowtown, a charming old gold mining village, where you will explore the Lakes District Museum. Next head to Gibbston Valley Winery and experience a wine tasting in New Zealand’s largest Wine Cave, followed by lunch in the restaurant. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a delicious gourmet barbecue dinner featuring a menu of seasonal, fresh and locally sourced food at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano as you cruise back to Queenstown. Staying in Hotel Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown 4 Star Plus Accommodation Queenstown, New Zealand’s mountain playground, is one of the great alpine regions of the world and the charming Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown Hotel calls this place home - the resort offers a hotel experience certain to leave you breathless. Set on the scenic slopes of Ben Lomond Mountain, Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown offers an alpine charm. Crafted from centuries-old schist stone and cedar, this comfortable and sophisticated Queenstown hotel is the perfect place to relax. Unwind in a room where timeless charm meets contemporary comfort with all the essentials thoughtfully considered making every stay feel effortlessly relaxed. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Speciality Dinner
Queenstown is celebrated around the world for its amazing activities, great food, award winning wine and its vibrant nightlife scene. Today, enjoy the freedom to explore Queenstown and all on offer at your leisure. Your Coach Captain is available to help you choose from the many optional activities available. This evening is also free to dine at one of the many fine restaurants. Staying in Hotel Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown 4 Star Plus Accommodation Queenstown, New Zealand’s mountain playground, is one of the great alpine regions of the world and the charming Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown Hotel calls this place home - the resort offers a hotel experience certain to leave you breathless. Set on the scenic slopes of Ben Lomond Mountain, Rendezvous Heritage Hotel Queenstown offers an alpine charm. Crafted from centuries-old schist stone and cedar, this comfortable and sophisticated Queenstown hotel is the perfect place to relax. Unwind in a room where timeless charm meets contemporary comfort with all the essentials thoughtfully considered making every stay feel effortlessly relaxed. Meals included: Breakfast
Today travel to Manapouri. Enjoy lunch as you cruise across this glacial lake. A short ride over the Wilmot Pass brings you to the boarding point to join the Fiordland Navigator for an amazing overnight experience. As you cruise through the pristine beauty of Doubtful Sound, naturalist guides will provide commentary and point out the resident wildlife. There are opportunities to explore the shoreline by tender boat or kayak (swimwear required) - or to simply relax on board. When evening falls enjoy a delicious carvery buffet prepared by the onboard chef. Staying in Overnight Fiordland Navigator Doubtful Sound is unspoiled, unmatched and unforgettable. You will create some lifelong memories as the Fiordland Navigator takes you through the ultimate Doubtful Sound experience. As you cruise through some of NZ’s most stunning scenery, knowledgeable nature guides will provide commentary. There are opportunities to explore the shoreline by kayak or tender boat, or to simply relax on board. As evening falls, you will enjoy a delicious buffet dinner prepared by the onboard chef and served in the dining saloon. Mingle with fellow travellers, savour some of the fine wines and if the skies are clear, enjoy some stargazing. The next day explore other parts of the fiord. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Start the day with a hearty breakfast before heading back to Deep Cove for the trip to Manapouri. Return to the wharf and meet your Ultimate Coach for the journey to Te Anau for a short break. Continue your journey to Invercargill, where you will visit Bill Richardsons Transport World for a guided tour of this remarkable private collection, housed in a purpose-built Art Deco building. The displays feature vintage trucks, rare classic cars, petrol pumps and an ever-growing showcase of Wearable Arts. Staying in Hotel Distinction Invercargill 4.5 Star Accommodation Invercargill’s newest hotel is housed in a former government building, now transformed into an elegant 4.5 star, 150-room haven. Each guestroom features luxury cloud-like beds, warm ambient lighting, sleek ensuite bathrooms with spacious walk-in showers equipped with both standard and rain shower heads. Guests can also enjoy a stylish restaurant and bar, set in warm and welcoming spaces, destined to become a favourite gathering place for both locals and visitors. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Your day begins with a visit to Classic Motorcycle Mecca, home to an impressive collection of over 300 classic bikes from around the globe. From there, journey through the stunning Catlins region, where lush rainforest meets dazzling beaches. Enjoy lunch at Curio Bay, renowned for its 180-million-year-old Jurassic petrified forest. Next enjoy a visit to Purakaunui Falls, a magnificent triple-tiered waterfall, perfect for capturing unforgettable photos. Along the way, take in the dramatic coastal scenery with plenty of opportunities to admire the views. Our journey continues to Dunedin, your home for the next 2-nights. Staying in Hotel Distinction Dunedin Hotel (2 nights) 4.5 Star Accommodation 2024 Travellers Choice Winner and ranked in the top 20 of all hotels in NZ on TripAdvisor. The Distinction Dunedin Hotel is elegant, luxurious and located in the rejuvenated and vibrant Warehouse Precinct in the heart of the city. The ideal combination of style and functionality. These air-conditioned Dunedin Studios offer a cloud-like super king bed and modern ensuite bathroom with a luxurious dual fixture walk-in rain shower plus complimentary Distinction toiletries. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel along the picturesque Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle. On a guided tour you will hear the tragic and scandalous tales which make up the castle’s history. Indulge in an Ultimate High Tea followed by time to stroll through this Garden of International Significance. Dunedin was built on the riches of the gold rush with one of the best collections of Edwardian and Victorian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere on display. Enjoy an orientation tour taking in the city’s key sights. Optional activities to consider include a wildlife excursion to observe animals in their natural habitat or a guided tour of Olveston Historic Home, containing a wealth of treasures from a bygone era. Staying in Hotel Distinction Dunedin Hotel 4.5 Star Accommodation 2024 Travellers Choice Winner and ranked in the top 20 of all hotels in NZ on TripAdvisor. The Distinction Dunedin Hotel is elegant, luxurious and located in the rejuvenated and vibrant Warehouse Precinct in the heart of the city. The ideal combination of style and functionality. These air-conditioned Dunedin Studios offer a cloud-like super king bed and modern ensuite bathroom with a luxurious dual fixture walk-in rain shower plus complimentary Distinction toiletries. Meals included: Breakfast
Farewell Dunedin and travel to Oamaru famous for its limestone. Follow the Waitaki River and see Lake Benmore as you travel to Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Staying in Hotel The Hermitage Hotel 4 Star Accommodation Set in the stunning Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, The Hermitage Hotel is surrounded by awe-inspiring glaciers, sparkling terminal lakes, rushing rivers, and the towering Aoraki/Mt Cook, Australasia’s tallest peak at 3,724 metres. This iconic hotel boasts a range of exceptional restaurants and bars, along with 164 well-appointed rooms. Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, The Hermitage provides the ultimate gateway to explore one of New Zealand’s most spectacular landscapes. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning there is an opportunity to enjoy a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the Southern Alps. Continue to Lake Tekapo and view the brilliant turquoise water, the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Sheep Dog Statue before arriving in Christchurch. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner including selected beverages with your newfound friends. Staying in Hotel Hotel Montreal 5 Star Accommodation Hotel Montreal, a longstanding 5-star gem in Christchurch, offers relaxed luxury in the heart of the city. Just steps away from the city’s excitement and the Botanic Gardens, it boasts the central city’s largest, fully refurbished rooms. Enjoy timeless décor, blending comfort and style, along with private balcony, vast wardrobe and tranquil lounge seating for a true home-away-from-home experience. Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner, Speciality Dinner
Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday. Meals included: Breakfast
Good to know
Departures
14 Day Ultimate Best of the South Island runs on set dates. These are the departures still open, with what each one costs per person, two sharing.
Availability checked 26 October 2026 from the operator's own bookings. Guaranteed means the operator has confirmed the departure will run; sold out dates stay on the list so you can see what is left.
A date not listed is not being sold. Choose one and your quote comes back against that departure, at that departure's price.
Before and after
The tour itself runs as published. Nights in Christchurch before it starts or in Christchurch after it ends, and any of the optional experiences, can be added to your quote.
Never travelling alone
Your whole itinerary lives in a smart travel app with live vouchers, maps and daily guidance, and your own travel specialist is reachable seven days a week while you are on the road. If plans change, we rearrange them in real time.
Who you are booking with
Operator
This itinerary is operated by a Qualmark Gold certified New Zealand operator. We book it for you and stay your point of contact.
Silver Fern Travel
Tourism New Zealand 100% Pure New Zealand Specialist (Insider), IATA certified, based in Auckland, New Zealand.
Prices
Quoted from the operator's own booking engine and refreshed weekly. The figure on this page is the one you will be quoted.
Yes, and most guests change something. Add nights, upgrade rooms, swap activities or start from a different city: tell us what you would change and we re-quote 14 Day Ultimate Best of the South Island at no cost and no obligation.
A professional driver-guide from our New Zealand operations team, on the ground with you throughout. Every itinerary we sell is operated by a Qualmark Gold certified New Zealand tour operator, the highest grading in the country's official quality mark.
14 Day Ultimate Best of the South Island runs on 7 scheduled departure dates, listed with their prices on this page. Choose one when you enquire and your quote comes back against that departure, usually within one working day.
13 nights in hotel 4 star. Every property is confirmed by name on your written quote, before you pay anything, so you can look each one up before you commit.
Nothing to enquire. A firm written quote arrives within one working day; if you go ahead, a 20% deposit per person (minimum NZ$250) confirms every booking and the balance is due 70 days before travel, with the exact date on your quote. Deposits can be paid by card, which keeps your card scheme's dispute protections in play.
No payment to enquire; a firm quote within one working day. Lowest priced travel dates, two sharing. International flights not included. A 20% deposit confirms your booking, with the balance due 70 days before travel. How your money is protected
Itineraries operated by a Qualmark Gold certified New Zealand operator. Tourism New Zealand 100% Pure Insider.
Request a quote for this trip
No payment, no obligation. A specialist replies with a firm quote within one working day.
Nothing to enquire, nothing until your quote is confirmed in writing, and never more than your deposit until the balance falls due 70 days before travel. Deposits can be paid by card, which keeps your card scheme’s protections in play.
Availability checked with our New Zealand operations team and confirmed in writing, not an automated estimate.
No booking fees, and nothing to pay to enquire
Quotes are free and carry no obligation. You pay a deposit only once the itinerary is right and you say go.
One person, before and during your trip
The same specialist plans your trip and is reachable while you are travelling, alongside in-country support seven days a week.
Insider status, Tourism New Zealand 100% Pure New Zealand Specialist Programme. IATA certified. Every itinerary is operated by a Qualmark Gold certified New Zealand tour operator.
12 days across the South Island, from Christchurch through to Queenstown, in a smaller group, with a driver guide throughout. Strong on national parks.
