South Island Explorer - 12 days Tour by On The Go Tours

12 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

16 peopleMaximum group size

18 - 55 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Easy

Light physical activity suitable for most people with average fitness levels.

Starts

Auckland, New Zealand

Ends

Christchurch, New Zealand

Highlights

Auckland - Enjoy the view from Bastion Point, visit Auckland Museum and the waterfront on a guided city tour

Rotorua - Visit the Te Puia geothermal site and a Kiwi conservation project, plus experience a Te Pa Tu Maori cultural evening

Redwood Forest - Cross a series of suspension bridges and elevated walkways to appreciate the towering redwood trees which are more than 100 years old

Christchurch – See the city with an included punting experience and a ride on a restored heritage tram

Tranz-Alpine Rail Journey - Cross the Southern Alps on this famous rail journey, taking in some of the South Island's fastest scenery

Wanaka - Choose from an ecological tour to a serene island on Lake Wanaka or a 4X4 excursion into the surrounding countryside

Milford Sound - Pass through incredible Fiordland National Park and enjoy a cruise on Milford Sound - look out for dolphins!

Lake Tekapo – See a tiny church set against a majestic backdrop, one of New Zealand’s most photographed spots

Wanaka - Choose from an ecological tour to a serene island on Lake Wanaka or a 4X4 excursion into the surrounding countryside

Milford Sound - Pass through incredible Fiordland National Park and enjoy a cruise on Milford Sound - look out for dolphins!

Lake Tekapo – See a tiny church set against a majestic backdrop, one of New Zealand’s most photographed spots

Itinerary

Experience the best of both New Zealand islands with the 12-day South Island Explorer tour, specially tailored for discerning travelers who appreciate culture and natural beauty at an easy pace. From the cultural vibrancy of Auckland, witness a traditional Maori Te Pa Tu celebration and the geothermal marvels of Te Puia, before crossing to the South Island aboard the scenic Tranz-Alpine Railway. Glide through the ethereal waters of Milford Sound, bake the classic pavlova at Lake Tekapo, and marvel at the grandeur of Mt. Cook. The tour wraps up in Christchurch, blending city sophistication with awe-inspiring landscapes. The unique selling point is its holistic blend of cultural immersion and natural wonders, making this trip a standout tour package for those seeking depth and diversity in one journey.

day 1 - Welcome to New Zealand!

Upon arrival into Auckland you will be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel. The rest of the day offers free time to explore the local area.

OverNight:Auckland

day 2 - Auckland & Te Pa Tu

Auckland – Rotorua. This morning we enjoy an Auckland City tour with panoramic views from Bastion Point, Maori and Pacific Island displays at the Auckland Museum, the quaint Parnell Village, and the picturesque waterfront. Following this we leave Auckland and head to Rotorua, the heart of New Zealand's thermal and cultural region. When we arrive we will take part in a city tour before heading to our nights accommodation.

In the afternoon we have some time to relax before we visit Tamaki Maori Village for Te Pa Tu, an evening experience and feast that changes with the Maori lunar calendar. We experience Maori culture and feast on seasonal cuisine in the forest Pa surrounded by Tawa trees and bonfires. The 4-course fusion feast includes Hangi dishes served al fresco or in the dining room, depending on the weather.

In the summer, Tu Te Ra celebrates harvest and ancient Maori concepts of warfare and peace, whilst in winter, Tu Te Ihi celebrates the Matariki star cluster with rituals, energy, and passion. Return hotel transfers are included; other travellers will be on board.

Meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

OverNight:Rotorua

day 3 - Te Puia, Treewalk & Christchurch

Rotorua – Christchurch. In Rotorua, we'll experience both New Zealand's geothermal wonders and rich Maori heritage. Te Puia is a must-visit, featuring active geothermal sites, indigenous arts, crafts, and a Kiwi conservation project. Their welcoming culture means they treat you like family and we are treated with a private guide whilst we are here.

Following this we head to the Redwood Forest for a Redwood Treewalk Day Walk with 28 suspension bridges among 120-year-old Californian coastal redwoods. These elevated walkways offer a unique view of the undergrowth from 12 meters above the ground.

In the afternoon we fly to Christchurch. On arrival, we join punting boatmen in traditional Edwardian dress for a leisurely River Avon cruise through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. We then enjoy a stylish journey on a heritage tram through the ever-changing city centre.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:Christchurch

day 4 - The Tranz-Alpine Railway & Fox Glacier

Travelling before October 2026: Christchurch – Fox Glacier. Today, we embark on the renowned Tranz-Alpine rail journey through the Southern Alps to Greymouth. We'll see the vast Canterbury Plains and farmland, which is followed by the breathtaking gorges and valleys of the Waimakariri River. We then ascend into the Southern Alps, which we then cross to reach the lush rainforests of Westland before concluding the journey at the town of Greymouth.

Driving further south, we visit the town of Hokitika and its galleries of greenstone jewellery and artwork. Continuing to Hokitika Gorge, we stretch our legs and discover the blue/green waters that pass through the rugged rocks. Following the road south, we reach Franz Josef and then on to the Village of Fox, which is where the huge rivers of snow and ice of the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers flow from vast snowfields high in the Southern Alps, down almost to sea level. If the weather allows there is the option of a helicopter ride over the glaciers at an extra cost.

Travelling in or after October 2026:Christchurch – Fox Glacier. Today we board the world-famous TranzAlpine train for one of the most scenic rail journeys on earth. From the wide Canterbury Plains we pass farmland and follow the dramatic gorges and valleys carved by the Waimakariri River. The train climbs into the Southern Alps before we disembark at Arthur’s Pass.

From here we continue by coach across to the rugged West Coast. We stop in Hokitika, known for its galleries showcasing pounamu (greenstone) jewellery and artwork. Travelling further south, we pass through forests and farmland, with the Southern Alps to the east and the Tasman Sea to the west, before reaching Franz Josef and then the small village of Fox Glacier. Here, immense rivers of snow and ice flow down from high in the Southern Alps to almost sea level – one of New Zealand’s most remarkable natural sights.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:Fox Glacier

day 5 - Mt Aspiring National Park

Fox Glacier – Wanaka. First thing today we visit nearby Lake Matheson which, when weather conditions are just right, perfectly mirrors Mount Cook in its waters creating a stunning visual effect. From here we head up over the Haast Past along the river road, which took more than 40 years to complete, travelling deep into Mt Aspiring National Park to Lake Wanaka and the picturesque resort town of Wanaka.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:Wanaka

day 6 - Wanaka

Your choice of activity today must be made at the time of booking. Please let our Reservations team know which included activity you would like to partake in.

Today we have a choice of two included excursions. Option 1 sees you join an eco tour. Depart Wanaka by boat and escape civilisation as we cruise to an island where we hike through vibrant native vegetation to find a hidden mountaintop lake surrounded by small islands. We trek on to reach the island's summit for a 360-degree view of Lake Wanaka, its mountains and valleys, and the Arethusa Pool. Look out for the rare Buff Weka, a flightless bird extinct on Mainland NZ since 1920, which often joins visitors.

Option 2 is a 4WD adventure. We will explore a perfect mix of stunning scenery, history, and farm life in New Zealand's High Country. We will traverse remote back roads on an authentic farm with Lake Wanaka as our backdrop, surrounded by nature's beauty. We get up close to farm animals and visit historical sites, all while enjoying optional hikes through alpine meadows and lakeside forests, offering a unique insight into Wanaka's history, heritage, modern farming, and breathtaking landscapes.

When we return to Wanaka we have the afternoon at leisure to relax or enjoy the town.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:Wanaka

day 7 - Wanaka to Te Anau

Travelling before October 2026:Wanaka – Te Anau. We begin our day in Wanaka, stopping at the iconic Cardrona Pub. Then we venture through the Crown Range Road to explore historic Arrowtown, a charming gold rush village nestled beneath majestic peaks near the Arrow River. We carry on along the scenic road between the Remarkables mountain range and stunning Lake Wakatipu before traversing a glacial valley turned farmland to reach Lake Te Anau, the South Island's largest freshwater lake and the entry point to Fiordland National Park.

Travelling in or after October 2026: Wanaka – Te Anau. This morning, we stop at the famous Cardrona Hotel before taking the Crown Range road to Arrowtown, a gold-rush settlement nestled beside the Arrow River. We then follow the road along the base of the Remarkables and the sparkling waters of Lake Wakatipu before entering a glacial valley now rich farmland, to arrive at Lake Te Anau – the largest freshwater lake in the South Island and the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

On arrival, we discover Fiordland’s wild beauty by jet boat, gliding from Te Anau’s lakefront into the Waiau River and as far as the remote shores of Lake Manapouri. Surrounded by mountains and forest, this is a world of natural splendour steeped in history. Afterwards, we visit Woodstone Farm, a 220-acre working property with a fully restored 100-year-old woolshed. Here we meet a local farmer, enjoy a traditional sheep-shearing and dog-mustering demonstration, and gain an authentic insight into Southland farming life.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:Te Anau

day 8 - Fiordland National Park

Te Anau – Queenstown. The journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound is one of the most scenic drives you can experience. Fiordland National Park, part of the Southwest New Zealand World Heritage Area is awe-inspiring, and features towering mountains and deep valleys sculpted by ancient glaciers. Milford Sound, famously dubbed the 'eighth wonder of the world' by Rudyard Kipling, is a breathtaking destination in any weather.

Following this we embark on a comfortable cruise, passing the iconic Mitre Peak to reach the Tasman Sea. Keep a lookout for seals and dolphins, which often grace the fiord's waters. After the cruise we retrace our route back to Te Anau and then journey through the Southland farmlands and circle the stunning Lake Wakatipu to reach Queenstown.

Meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch

OverNight:Queenstown

day 9 - Exploring Queenstown

Nestled amid majestic mountains and on the pristine shores of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown's natural beauty and unique ambiance provide an ideal setting for a visit filled with adventure, exploration, or relaxation. Today, we have the freedom to choose our own activities: thrill-seekers might opt for activities like zip-lining at Bob's Peak, a heart-pounding Shotover jet-boat ride, or white-water rafting. For those of us seeking a more leisurely experience, we can enjoy a gondola ride to Bob's Peak or embark on a 4WD safari to Skippers Canyon. Queenstown also offers boutique wineries, local gardens, and a chance to cruise Lake Wakatipu on the elegant steamship TSS Earnslaw for a visit to Walter Peak High Country Farm.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:Queenstown

day 10 - Journey to Mt Cook

Queenstown – Twizel. This morning we head north through Kawarau Gorge and past the scenic Lake Dunstan. We cross the Central Otago Countryside to the Lindis Pass where we descend into the Mackenzie Basin where the Southern Alps dominate the horizon. We enjoy a picturesque drive along Lake Pukaki to arrive at Mt. Cook Village, nestled at the base of New Zealand's highest peak, Aoraki/Mt. Cook. Our overnight stay awaits in the charming town of Twizel.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:Twizel

day 11 - Twizel to Christchurch

Travelling before October 2026: Twizel – Christchurch. Today, we get to experience Kiwi culture by visiting a local home on Lake Tekapo's shores to learn the art of making Pavlova, a beloved New Zealand dessert. We enjoy our Pavlova during morning tea, taking in the stunning lake views. We admire the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, beautifully situated against the backdrop of the Southern Alps. Continuing our journey through the high country's tussock plains, passing through charming towns like Fairlie and Geraldine, en route to Ashburton, we then travel across the fertile Canterbury Plains. Returning to Christchurch, there is free time to further explore.

Travelling in or after October 2026: Twizel – Christchurch. This morning, we visit a local home on the shores of Lake Tekapo to learn how to make Pavlova, New Zealand’s much-loved dessert. We enjoy our creation with morning tea while admiring the lake’s turquoise waters. We then view the Church of the Good Shepherd, one of the country’s most photographed landmarks, beautifully set against the Southern Alps.

Our journey continues across the tussock plains of the Mackenzie high country, through small towns such as Fairlie and Geraldine, before reaching the fertile Canterbury Plains. Arriving in Christchurch, we have time to relax before coming together this evening for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant – a fitting way to celebrate our New Zealand adventure.

Meals:1 Breakfast

OverNight:Christchurch

day 12 - Saying Goodbye

Today our adventure in New Zealand comes to an end. A transfer takes you to Christchurch Airport for your flight home.

Meals:1 Breakfast

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What's Included

Accommodation

11 nights 4 star hotels

Meals

11 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 1 dinnerMilford Sound cruise & lunchFarewell dinner (Travelling in or after October 2026)

Transport

Airport arrival and departure transfers on day 1 and day 12All relevant transfers and transportation in modern air-conditioned vehicle

Guide

Escorted by an expert local guide/driver with specialist local guides at some sites

Others

Economy class flight from Rotorua - ChristchurchChristchurch Edwardian punt & heritage tram experienceTranz-Alpine rail journey from Christchurch - GreymouthTouring of Auckland & RotoruaTe Pa Tu Maori experienceTe Puia & Arrowtown visitLocal eco-guided tour or an authentic 4WD adventure at WanakaMorning tea at a local home on the shores of Lake TekapoTranz Alpine Train journey Christchurch - Fox Glacier (Travelling in or after October 2026)Fiordland Jet & Woodstone Farm (Travelling in or after October 2026)Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go.

What's Excluded

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