About the tour
Starts
Ends
Christchurch, New Zealand
Christchurch, New Zealand
Highlights
Christchurch: Experience the striking natural landscape of the South Island as you travel on the TranzAlpine. Famous as one of the world’s great train journeys, you can enjoy the remarkable scenery from the ice-fed Waimakariri River to the magnificent Canterbury Plains.
Hokitika: Visit the coastal town of Hokitika, where you’ll find stunning scenery and a cool, arty vibe. Join a Local Expert for a Hokitika History Walk and hear about the area's rich history - from the discovery of New Zealand jade through the many tales from the gold rush in the 1860s.
Franz Josef: Experience the mighty natural wonder of the Franz Josef Glacier and what the ice age must have felt like. The sheer enormity of these giant ice puzzles will leave you spellbound as you explore the area with your Local Expert.
Haast River: Enjoy the unique blend of thrilling speed and calm comfort on a Haast River jet boat safari. Zip past untouched forests and snow-capped mountains in your fully enclosed cabin while you hear beguiling tales of the wilderness communities of the valley.
Lake Wanaka: Wānaka Lavender Farm is just a few minutes drive from Wānaka, where you can experience 20 acres of beautiful lavender fields. Enjoy a walk through the flowers, meet our friendly farm animals, play a garden game, unwind over a cup of herbal tea & indulge in our lavender ice-creams. Sample our Lakes Honey and the many Wānaka Lavender Farm products that are lovingly made on site.
Itinerary
Explore the best of New Zealand’s South Island on The Southern Drift, a 12-day relaxed-paced city sightseeing tour that starts and ends in Christchurch. Journey on the famous Tranzalpine train to the rugged West Coast, walk the Franz Josef Glacier with expert guides, and glide along the Haast River in a jet boat. Discover Arrowtown’s mining history, indulge in Queenstown’s boutique wines or scenic e-bike tours, and savor fine dining. Trek a portion of the legendary Milford Track in Fiordland, sample craft gin in Dunedin, and celebrate your adventure in Christchurch. Designed for experienced travelers, this trip’s highlight is its seamless mix of guided nature walks, gourmet food, and cultural experiences—all wrapped in comfort.
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