New Zealand’s cool little capital, Wellington is the kind of place you could easily lose yourself in for a day. Good thing you arrived early. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travel companions this afternoon for an orientation tour of Wellington where you will visit the peak of Mount Victoria, and short stroll will reward you with 360-degree views of the surrounding harbour and city. After the tour you may like to visit Te Papa, the Museum of New Zealand, home to an extraordinary collection of artefacts, including an eye-opening exhibit dedicated to Māori history (entrance fee applies). Later, meet up with your fellow adventure-seekers for a drinks before your tour of the South Island of New Zealand. Staying in: James Cook Grand Chancellor (1 night)
New Zealand’s Southern Sounds - Small Group Tour 27/28
- 12 days, 11 nights
- Wellington to Christchurch
- Hotel 4 star
Where you will go
8 places you sleep in over 11 nights. Select a place in the list to find it on the map.
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.
Experience the best of New Zealand on this captivating tour. 12 days through the North and South Islands, running Wellington to Christchurch. Along the way: Wellington, Marlborough, Christchurch. 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.
- 11 nights accommodation
Explore more:Milford Sound and FiordlandGuided small groupSolo travellersAll guided toursLuxuryWellington toursMarlborough tours
What is included, and what is not
Included in the price
- 11 nights of accommodation, hotel 4 star
- Small group travel throughout with a driver guide
- A detailed day by day itinerary with every booking reference
- Support from a New Zealand based specialist while you travel
Not included
- International flights to and from New Zealand
- Travel insurance, which we recommend arranging on the day you pay your deposit
- Meals, unless a day in the itinerary lists one
- Personal spending, tips and anything not listed as included
This tour runs as published on set dates. Nights before or after it, and any of the optional experiences, can be added to your quote.
Day by day
This morning cruise the Cook Strait into tranquil Queen Charlotte Sound from the North Island to the South, through a maze of arms and inlets into Marlborough and the picturesque town of Blenheim. Often winning the title of sunniest town in New Zealand, Blenheim is known for its world class Sauvignon Blanc, sun-soaked vineyards and aviation heritage. This afternoon during your guided tour of the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, take in an extraordinary collection of World War I and II aircraft and memorabilia, each piece meticulously brought to life through the stunning craftsmanship of Weta Workshop. Staying in: Scenic Hotel Marlborough (1 night) Meals included: Breakfast
Today, explore Marlborough at your own pace. Perhaps book an optional experience. Choose from a wine tour of the local vineyards or jump onboard the iconic Mail Boat cruise delivering mail and supplies to local residents in Queen Charlotte Sound, offering a unique tour experience with scenic views, wildlife encounters, and insightful commentary. Staying in: Scenic Hotel Marlborough (1 night) Meals included: Breakfast
There aren’t many beaches more dramatic than the sands of Kaikoura. Bonus points if you spot a sea lion or sperm whale frolicking offshore, Kaikoura is the marine wildlife centre of New Zealand. Talk to your Travel Director for tips on the essential restaurants to dine in tonight, Christchurch has reinvented itself in more ways than one. Staying in: Wyndham Garden (1 night) Meals included: Breakfast
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. Consider 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
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 Lakes 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 three-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 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 quiet 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. Staying in: Heartland Fox Glacier (1 night) Meals included: Breakfast
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. 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, 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 two weeks immersed in untamed nature and cultural experiences. Meals included: Breakfast
Good to know
Departures
New Zealand’s Southern Sounds - Small Group 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 Wellington 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.
- Paying
- A 20% deposit confirms your booking; the balance is due 70 days before travel. How your money is protected.
Watch: Kaikoura on this itinerary
Asked before booking
Something not answered here? , no quote attached.
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
- Per day
- NZ$800planning included
- Travelling solo
- NZ$13,197single occupancy
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.
How it works
How your money is protectedTell us about your trip
Get your firm quote
Shape it until it fits
Confirm with a 20% deposit
Everything is booked for you
Travel with us beside you
The Silver Fern Promise
You never hand over more than a small deposit
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 protectedA firm quote within one working day
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.Questions before you enquire? Email hello@silverferntravel.com and ask. No form required.
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