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The Southern Drift
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Sistema di prenotazione semplice e intuibile. In caso di necessità le istruzioni presenti sul sito sono risultate utili e chiare. Nessun problema riscontrato
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Highlights
Journey down the Haast River in a fully enclosed jet boat, and discover the remarkable glacial valley where temperate rainforest thrives.
See lush rainforests, thundering waterfalls and interesting wildlife while aboard the Milford Mariner. Explore Haast River by jetboat and view snowcapped peaks from your TranzAlpine train journey.
Delve deep into the natural wonders of Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, with specialist nature guides sharing their knowledge of this mystical landscape.
Learn about Franz Josef’s majestic glaciers and the history and geology of Milford Sound from specialist local guides. Discover historical landmarks like the Church of the Good Shepherd and Arrowtown's gold rush heritage.
Join a behind-the-scenes tour at OCHO Chocolate, and embark on a culinary discovery of Queenstown.
Memorable culinary experiences await. Highlights include a wine tasting at a boutique cellar door, a decadent High Tea at Mt. Cook Lakeside Retreat and plenty of dining amidst breathtaking views.
Take a dip in the Franz Josef/Waiau local geothermal hot pools and relax and rejuvenate after a day of discovering the South’s natural wonders.
Spend a night on the Milford Mariner, cruising on 'the eighth wonder of the World', rejuvenate at Te Waonui Forest Retreat, and slow down at the idyllic Edgewater Lake Wānaka Hotel.
Memorable culinary experiences await. Highlights include a wine tasting at a boutique cellar door, a decadent High Tea at Mt. Cook Lakeside Retreat and plenty of dining amidst breathtaking views.
Take a dip in the Franz Josef/Waiau local geothermal hot pools and relax and rejuvenate after a day of discovering the South’s natural wonders.
Spend a night on the Milford Mariner, cruising on 'the eighth wonder of the World', rejuvenate at Te Waonui Forest Retreat, and slow down at the idyllic Edgewater Lake Wānaka Hotel.
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New Zealand’s South Island unfolds before you on The Southern Drift, a 10-day natural landmarks sightseeing tour starting and ending in Christchurch. Designed for experienced travelers, this journey reveals the island’s breathtaking diversity—from the majestic peaks of Milford Sound and Franz Josef Glacier to the tranquil shores of Lake Ohau. Wander through the historic streets of Cromwell and Arrowtown, sample world-class wines, and relish gourmet meals set amid native flora and fauna. Accommodation, transport, and meals are all included, ensuring comfort and ease. The USP? The seamless combination of nature, culture, and cuisine, offering a well-rounded snapshot of New Zealand’s southern wonders.
day 1 - Welcome to Christchurch
Upon your arrival in Christchurch, travel to your hotel by private car transfer. Join your Journey Director for a Welcome Reception with local wine and canaps.
Meals:Welcome Reception
Location Visited:Christchurch
Accommodation:Hotel Montreal Christchurch
day 2 - Christchurch - Lake Ohau
Begin your day by exploring Christchurch's buzzing city sights before journeying to the brilliant bright blue waters of Lake Tekapo. You'll visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, which was built in 1935, and the first church in the Mackenzie Basin. Continue your adventure to the exquisite Mt. Cook Lakeside Retreat, where you'll indulge in a High Tea complemented by local sparkling wine and the majestic views of Lake Pukaki. Here, you'll meet the owners, Kaye and Luke Paardekooper, who will share the inspiring story of how they transformed this wild and rugged landscape into an alpine sanctuary on the edge of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Conclude your day at the charming Lake Ohau Lodge, nestled 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 with wine.
Meals:Breakfast, Dinner, High Tea
Location Visited:Christchurch, Lake Ōhau
Accommodation:Lake Ohau Lodge
day 3 - Lake Ohau - Queenstown
Travel through Lindis Pass to Cromwell. Visit Mrs. Jones Orchard for fresh produce, then explore the Highlands Museum, a paradise for car enthusiasts and novices alike. Enjoy a special wine tasting experience and delicious lunch at Gibbston Valley's Kinross cellar door. Continue your journey to Arrowtown, a charming village with a rich gold rush heritage, before reaching scenic Queenstown for the night.
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
Location Visited:Lake Ōhau, Queenstown
Accommodation:The Rees
day 4 - Queenstown
Today, explore Queenstown at your own pace. Why not sit back and enjoy a peaceful cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard New Zealands oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak Station (own expense). As the day winds down, prepare for an unforgettable evening at the Bathhouse, an elegant dining establishment spectacularly situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Savour a sumptuous meal while taking in vast, serene lakeside view, creating a perfect finale to your day.
Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
Location Visited:Queenstown
Accommodation:The Rees
day 5 - Queenstown - Milford Sound
Start the day with a journey along the Devil's Staircase, with its dramatic landscapes leading you to the charming town of Te Anau. Here, you'll enjoy a delightful lunch at a local farm, immersing yourself in theauthentic flavors and hospitality of the region. 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 fiords spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains, and diverse wildlife such as seals, penguins, and dolphins. Hear from the specialist nature guide on board or choose to explore the shoreline by kayak or tender. The Milford Mariner offers the facilities of a larger ship while retaining the intimate atmosphere of a small ship. Onboard facilities are made up of spacious viewing decks, a dining saloon with fully licensed bar, as well as an observation lounge. Dining included in your cruise are hors doeuvres followed by a three-course buffet meal, as well as a choice between continental or a cooked breakfast.
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Location Visited:Queenstown, Milford Sound
Accommodation:Milford Mariner
day 6 - Milford Sound - Wanaka
Depart the serene beauty of Fiordland National Park and journey to the picturesque town of Wnaka, nestled amidst the majestic Southern Alps and gracing the shores of Lake Wnaka. This idyllic town offers a perfect blend of natural splendour and leisurely pursuits. As the day concludes, savour a delightful dinner accompanied by wine, set against the tranquil backdrop of Lake Wnaka.
Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
Location Visited:Milford Sound, Wanaka
Accommodation:Edgewater Lake Wānaka Hotel
day 7 - Wanaka - Franz Josef
Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Wnaka, 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 to the West Coast town of Haast, full of diverse landscapes that will captivate your senses. Experience a Haast River jet boat adventure, gliding through pristine waterways surrounded by breathtaking wilderness. This exhilarating ride offers a unique perspective of the regionsnatural beauty. Arrive in Franz Josef and settle into the splendid Te Waonui Forest Retreat. In the evening, indulge in a sumptuous dinner accompanied by wine, enveloped by the serene ambiance of this forest sanctuary.
Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
Location Visited:Wanaka, Franz Josef
Accommodation:Te Waonui Forest Retreat
day 8 - Franz Josef
Begin your day at a leisurely pace, soaking in the spectacular surroundings of Franz Josef. Explore this captivating region with a local guide, who will illuminate the wonders of its majestic glaciers, verdant rainforests, and uniquely varied landscapes. After a day of immersive discovery, return to the calm respite of Te Waonui Forest Retreat, where you can unwind and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
Meals:Breakfast
Location Visited:Franz Josef
Accommodation:Te Waonui Forest Retreat
day 9 - Franz Josef - Christchurch
Depart Franz Josef for Hokitika, where you will go on an informative walking tour led by a local history expert. Learn about the West Coast's rich heritage, including shipwrecks, gold miners, and pounamu hunters. Then, enjoy a scenic TranzAlpine ride from Arthurs Pass to Christchurch, marveling at the Southern Alps' breathtaking scenery. Conclude with a Celebration Dinner in Christchurch, toasting to your unforgettable journey.
Meals:Breakfast, Dinner
Location Visited:Franz Josef, Christchurch
Accommodation:Hotel Montreal Christchurch
day 10 - Farewell from Christchurch
As your extraordinary journey draws to a close, enjoy a seamless transfer to Christchurch Airport. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories made during your exploration of New Zealand.
