From the vibrant city of Christchurch to the serene shores of Lake Ohau. 9 days through the South Island, starting and finishing in Christchurch. Along the way: Christchurch, Lake Tekapo, Queenstown. 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.
Included in your price
This itinerary can be customised: extra nights, different rooms, more activities or a different vehicle. Tell us what you would change.
Your journey:ChristchurchCromwellTe AnauWānakaHokitikaChristchurch
You don’t have to arrive in Christchurch early, but we recommend you do, this South Island city has some of New Zealand’s most innovative architecture, not to mention forward-thinking restaurants and bars. Tonight, it’s time to meet your Travel Director and travelling companions for a tour briefing and drinks. Staying in: Wyndham Garden (1 night)
Begin your day by exploring Christchurch’s city sights before journeying to the brilliant bright blue waters of Lake Tekapo. You’ll view the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, which was built in 1935, and was the first church in the Mackenzie Basin. You are then welcomed to the stunning lakeside home of Angie and Stan Taylor for afternoon tea. Retired farmers, baker Angie is the undisputed Pavlova Queen who will give a demonstration and explanation of the great trans-Tasman pavlova controversy, while Stan will regale you with tales of a lifetime spent farming. Conclude your day at the charming Lake Ohau Lodge, set 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. Staying in: Lake Ohau Lodge (1 night) Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel through the Lindis Pass to Cromwell. Visit the Jones Family fruit stall for fresh produce, then explore Highlands Museum, a paradise for car enthusiasts and novices alike. Continue your journey to Arrowtown, a charming village with a rich gold rush heritage, before reaching scenic Queenstown. Enjoy a burger at your leisure at cult eatery Fergburger, famous for its mouthwatering gourmet burgers and vibrant atmosphere. Staying in: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront (1 night) Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Take today at your own pace. Perhaps choose an optional experience. Like things fast and furious? Feel the wind in your hair on the high-octane jet boat ride, perhaps. There’s a reason why Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the country. Nature lover? Discover some of New Zealand’s feathered friends at Kiwi Park. Staying in: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront (1 night) Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Start the day with a journey along the Devil’s Staircase, with its dramatic landscapes leading you to the charming town of Te Anau. 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 fur seals and various seabirds. Hear from the specialist nature guide on board and explore the shoreline by kayak or tender. The Milford Mariner offers 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 four-course buffet meal, as well as a delicious cooked breakfast. Staying in: Milford Mariner (1 night) Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart the serene beauty of Fiordland National Park and journey to the picturesque country town of Wānaka, set 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. Your hotel is located in the heart of the village just a short walk from the lakefront and set among surrounding cafes and restaurants. Staying in: Wanaka Hotel (1 night) Meals included: Breakfast
Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Wānaka, passing the pristine 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 over the Haast Pass, the historic township of Fox Glacier awaits. Get some perspective on an optional experience scenic flight over Fox and Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere (Franz Josef Glacier), if the weather behaves, you may even get a glacier landing. Staying in: Heartland Fox Glacier, Heartland Glacier Country (1 night) Meals included: Breakfast
Today’s drive north winds past lush rainforests and rugged coastlines to Hokitika, famous for its greenstone and arty, laid-back vibe. From there, the road heads inland through the Southern Alps. As you climb toward Arthur’s Pass, the scenery shifts from rainforest to soaring peaks, rocky gorges, and sweeping tussock plains. Keep an eye out for cheeky kea (the world’s only alpine parrot) along the way! Once over the pass, the landscape softens again, opening up to wide Canterbury plains as you roll toward the bright lights of Christchurch. Tonight, enjoy dinner with your Travel Director, a fitting end to your New Zealand adventure. Staying in: Wyndham Garden (1 night) Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
It’s time to say farewell and head home, sorting through snapshots of an unforgettable journey. But the best souvenirs? The lasting memories of a holiday immersed in untamed nature and cultural experiences. Meals included: Breakfast
This itinerary departs on the dates that suit you, subject to availability. Peak season (December to February) books out early, so enquire well ahead for summer travel.
Add nights, upgrade rooms, swap activities or extend into the other island. Tell us what you would change and we will re-quote, no obligation.
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.
Watch: Franz Josef on this itinerary
Still deciding? Worth a read: How many days do you actually need in New Zealand? · The best time to visit New Zealand, from people who live here
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.
How your money is protectedAvailability checked with our New Zealand operations team and confirmed in writing, not an automated estimate.
Quotes are free and carry no obligation. You pay a deposit only once the itinerary is right and you say go.
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.Questions before you enquire? Email hello@silverferntravel.com and ask. No form required.
3 days across the South Island, starting and ending in Christchurch, lift passes, lessons and lodging in one booking. Strong on ski packages.
3 days across the South Island, from Queenstown through to Christchurch, built around the famous trains. Strong on family touring.
5 days across the South Island, a loop from Queenstown, built around the winter season. Strong on adventure.
