Fall in love with the highlights of this 10 day South Island itinerary that takes you on a circuit of spectacular mountains, lakes, rivers, glaciers, waterfalls and rainforests and gives you the opportunity to enjoy all the bucket list adventures you could wish for.
Created for travellers in their mid-thirties and upwards, on this New Zealand South Island itinerary you’ll visit Christchurch, Queenstown, Lake Wanaka, Lake Tekapo (and Lake Wakatipu, Lake Mapourika, Lake Hawea, plus more lakes!), the Mackenzie Country, and Franz Josef, plus you’ll get to take one of the world’s greatest train rides! Your comfortable 3–4 star accommodation on tour includes a boutique hotels and a rainforest retreat.
We’ll travel from the wide plains of Canterbury, through the mountains and lakes of Central Otago, to the glaciers and pristine rainforest of the West Coast via the spectacular Haast Pass. By the end of this New Zealand South Island itinerary, you will have lost count of the number of times you’ve uttered the words: “Wow!”, “So beautiful!” and “It’s breathtaking!”.
You’ll have the opportunity to swim, kayak, jet boat, skydive, hike, bike, see kiwis, relax in hot pools, eat and drink like a local, and more.
But only if you want to; this is your trip, and it’s designed to be flexible. Across this 10 day South Island itinerary we include some of the things that we reckon are absolute essentials, but rather than force you into activities you’re not so sure of, we leave the choice up to you. You can pre-book activities that you definitely want to do before the trip starts, and then add more while you’re on tour.
As our tours are made up of a combination of tours, the composition of your group may change throughout your tour (Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch are the hubs where the group may change).
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Christchurch, Kaikoura, Aoraki
Christchurch, Kaikoura, Aoraki, Ohau, Queenstown, Wanaka, Franz Josef
18% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
From north to south, east to west, New Zealand is a country of contrasts. And that’s why we love it. One minute you’re drifting through World Heritage-listed gorges on a Milford Sound/Piopiotahi tour, then next you’re scaling ice on a Franz Josef/Waiau tour. Sometimes there’s a Maori-inspired feast on the menu; at others there’s award-winning wine. Spanning 17 days, two islands and countless attractions – both city and country – this trip to New Zealand is one for the record books.
Local cultureWaterfalls
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin
Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Te Anau, Queenstown, Franz Josef, Punakaiki, Rotorua, Wellington, Kaikoura, Twizel
13% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
This solo tour of New Zealand will show you some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world! You will discover fascinating rainforests, magnificent mountains, powerful waterfalls, stunning glaciers and more on this magical journey. Begin your tour in Auckland, the cultural capital of New Zealand packed with diverse neighborhoods and historical landmarks. Drive over the Auckland Harbour Bridge and take in the magnificent views of the Hauraki Gulf and the city skyline. Visit The Domain, the oldest park in Auckland and one of the largest in the city! Head on a tour of the Waitomo Caves as you travel through the beautiful farmland regions and embark on a scenic boat ride on the Glowworm Grotto, illuminated by thousands of tiny glowworms. Explore Rotorua, a geothermal wonderland where you will discover magnificent glaciers, natural hot springs, and mud pools. Catch a flight to Christchurch and discover Mount Cook, the tallest mountain peak in New Zealand with a height of 3,724 meters. Visit Lake Tekapo, a breathtaking glacier-fed Lake where you will discover extraordinary views of the Southern Alps. From there you will drive to Queenstown, the Adventure Capital of New Zealand known for its wide range of outdoor activities including ziplining, bungee jumping, paragliding, and skydiving. Your tour of New Zealand will end in this fascinating city, and you will head home filled with unforgettable memories!
Natural landmarks sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Culture and nature unite in this inter-island New Zealand tour. Oh, and there’s a good dose of food and wine on the side to deliver a well-rounded taste of North and South. Whether you’re into wide, open spaces – Stewart Island, we’re looking at you – bubbling geysers, gem-like glaciers or windswept coasts. Whether you’re a history, sport, architecture or culture buff. This New Zealand guided tour is for you.
Local culture
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Resort, Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Auckland, Christchurch, Nelson
Auckland, Christchurch, Nelson, Wellington, Napier, Rotorua, Omarama, Dunedin, Invercargill, Stewart Island, Queenstown, Franz Josef, Punakaiki
18% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Marty was extremely helpful and informative throughout the entire tour. His knowledge and humour was fantastic.
The various drivers during the tour were also very friendly and helpful.
The consideration the company extended to my wife's dietary requirements was immense.
I would recommend AAT to anyone who is considering a guided tour.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Auckland, Christchurch, Queensto
Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown, Rotorua, Milford Sound, Lake Tekapo
17% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
12-100 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cairns, Christchurch, Blue Mount
Cairns, Christchurch, Blue Mountains, Sydney, Auckland, Hahei, Maori Village, Wellington, Cape Tribulation, Kaikoura, Hanmer Springs, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Twizel, Airlie Beach, Byron Bay, Port Macquarie
Cam was wonderful, knowledgeable, kind and considerate! He cared about each person on the tour and went out of his way to ensure that everyone was safe and happy. 😃. The concierge Tony, at the Rendezvous Grand Hotel Melbourne was the best. The bus driver the morning of departure from Melbourne was a jerk! Our driver in New Zealand, Jaden, like Cam, became part of us. We love him and his driving was amazing. He and Cam were on the same wavelength and worked so well together that they were reading each other’s minds. All excursions were great fun and you should add the captain cook tours in Fiji to your options. The flights went off perfectly and the airport folks were great. The Compass mobile app was awesome and easy to use. Our tour guide in Hobart, Zoe, did a fantastic job. Loved her sense of humor. Thanks Cam, Jaden, and Zoe for being part of our family and sharing your homes (countries) with us. There are so many wonderful memories that it would take pages to share them all!
Discover some of the most magnificent mountains, breathtaking fjords, fascinating cities, and spectacular rainforests on the planet with this tour of New Zealand and Australia! Begin your journey in Auckland, the capital of New Zealand and a vibrant city that sits squarely on the Pacific Ring of Fire. Learn about the past and present volcanic activity of the city as you explore the diverse neighborhoods and historic landmarks. Drive over the Auckland Harbour Bridge and take in the magnificent views of the Hauraki Gulf and the city skyline. Visit The Domain, the oldest park in Auckland and one of the largest in the city! Head on a tour of the Waitomo Caves as you will travel through the beautiful farmlands and enjoy a breathtaking boat ride on the Glowworm Grotto, illuminated by thousands of tiny glowworms. Catch a flight to Christchurch to uncover the extraordinary sights of the Southern Alps from Mount Cook, the highest mountain in New Zealand with a height of 3,724 meters, before you visit Lake Tekapo en route to Queenstown. From there you will fly to Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia filled with fascinating hidden gems including an underground art scene, extraordinary restaurants, and ample shopping opportunities. Wander around the Fitzroy Gardens, one of the most beautiful gardens in Melbourne, and visit Albert Park, home to the Australian Grand Prix. Take a train to Sydney to visit the Opera House, known for its extraordinary architectural design, and drive to Bondi Beach, the most famous surfing beach in the country. Your tour of New Zealand and Australia will end in Sydney, and you will head home filled with fascinating memories!
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Rotorua, Auckland, Melbourne, Sy
Rotorua, Auckland, Melbourne, Sydney and NSW, Sydney, Christchurch, Queenstown
We had a fabulous trip and really enjoyed New Zealand the most, along with Sydney... each area had something special to off in scenery, doing different activities and spending time with lovely travel mates.
Active and outdoor
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
1-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cairns, Wellington, Queenstown
Cairns, Wellington, Queenstown, Sydney, Adelaide, Uluru, Nelson, Hokitika, Franz Josef
The itinerary covered all important things to see and experience. Accommodations are well placed for city life, night life, botanical gardens, parks and close to all the amenities. Day tours are arranged to discover nature wonders, beautiful countryside, famous landmarks. The trip wound up with relaxing warm beautiful beaches in Fiji.
Traverse New Zealand’s North and South Islands, exploring hidden wonders and iconic landscapes. Witness majestic glaciers, shimmering lakes and ancient rainforests brimming with wildlife. Immerse yourself in rich cultural experiences, fresh seasonal fare, world class wines and scenic stays. Experience a journey like no other.
Local culture
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Auckland, Christchurch, Lake Oha
Auckland, Christchurch, Lake Ohau , Queenstown, Milford Sound, Wanaka, Franz Josef, Tauranga, Rotorua, Napier, Wellington, Marlborough
18% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
Discover some of the most breathtaking rainforests, fascinating cities, magnificent mountains, and majestic fjords on the planet with this tour of New Zealand and Australia! Your journey will begin in Auckland, the capital of New Zealand packed with diverse neighborhoods and historical landmarks. Drive over the Auckland Harbour Bridge and take in the magnificent views of the Hauraki Gulf and the city skyline. Visit The Domain, the oldest park in Auckland and one of the largest in the city! Head on a tour of the Waitomo Caves as you will travel through the beautiful farmlands and enjoy a breathtaking boat ride on the Glowworm Grotto, illuminated by thousands of tiny glowworms. Catch a flight to Christchurch and uncover the sights of the Southern Alps from Mount Cook before you visit Lake Tekapo en route to Queenstown. From there you will fly to Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia filled with fascinating hidden gems including an underground art scene, extraordinary restaurants, and ample shopping opportunities. Wander around the Fitzroy Gardens, one of the most beautiful gardens in Melbourne, and visit Albert Park, home to the Australian Grand Prix. Fly to Cairns, one of the most popular destinations in Australia known as the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Take a train to Sydney to visit the Opera House, known for its extraordinary architectural design, and drive to Bondi Beach, the most famous surfing beach in the country. Your tour of New Zealand and Australia will end in Sydney, and you will head home filled with unforgettable memories!
Natural landmarks sightseeing
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Rotorua, Auckland, Cairns, Sydne
Rotorua, Auckland, Cairns, Sydney and NSW, Melbourne, Sydney, Christchurch, Queenstown
Geoff VenningTravel Expert in New Zealand
