Experience the contrasts of the stunning South Island while staying in charming and unique 4 ˝ & 5 star boutique style accommodation. We have selected each property for the gracious and friendly hosts who will assist in making the most of your stay.Ride the Tranz Alpine Train; enjoy a self drive journey down the West Coast via the glaciers, walk in rainforest, fly and cruise Milford Sound and finale in the stunning alpine resort town of Queenstown.
Day 1: Christchurch Christchurch is known as the 'Garden City' with glorious parks, gardens and tree lined streets. It is also considered the most English city outside of England. Your accommodation is an elegant beautifully restored colonial home. Explore the Christchurch Art Gallery; Canterbury Museum, wander in the botanical gardens, Hagley Park or try punting along the Avon River. Day 2: Christchurch Today you have a free day to explore Christchurch Optional Sightseeing (additonal cost)
Day 3: Christchurch - Greymouth on the Tranz Alpine Train / Self Drive Greymouth - Franz Josef Glacier You will be transferred to the Christchurch Railway Station to board the Tranz Alpine Train and travel from coast to coast - a distance of 133 miles, duration 4 ˝ hours. Described as New Zealand's greatest rail journey and one of the worlds greatest - the TranzAlpine winds its way through lush beech forests, following rivers and skirting lakes before tracking slowly across the country's greatest mountain range, the Southern Alps. Crosses the huge, fertile patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains. Fitted with panoramic windows and an open air viewing carriage, passengers can view the spectacular scenery enroute. There are also 16 tunnels and 5 viaducts, the highest being the staircase standing at 200+ feet.
Upon arrival in Greymouth you will collect your rental car and enjoy a scenic drive south to your accommodation, nestled amongst the rainforest in the township of Franz Josef. This evening a fantastic degustation dinner is included in your stay.
Day 4: Franz Josef Glacier Today you can choose from a wide range of activities, from heli-hikes, to glacier walks, ice climbing or a scenic flight. This afternoon or early evening you may like to enjoy a soak in the lovely outdoor Glacier Hot Pools. Franz Josef Optional Sightseeing (additional cost)
Day 5: Franz Josef - Wanaka Today you will leave the glaciers for the gorgeous lakeside town of Wanaka. Along the way there are many photographic stops you may like to make along with scenic spots to stretch your legs. Your accommodation in Wanaka is luxurious & welcoming.
Day 6: Wanaka & Milford Sound Scenic Fly / Cruise / Fly The best scenic route to Milford Sound begins from LakeWanaka and MakaroraValley. Take in huge chunks of Mt Aspiring and FiordlandWorldHeritageNational Parks. Stunning vistas of rugged untouched wilderness, numerous glaciers, mountains, snow, ice, rivers, valleys and rainforest. Fly the full length of Milford Sound before landing and taking in the views from the water on a 1hr 45min scenic boat cruise. You will be back in Wanaka in time for an afternoon activity or simply time to kick back after a fabulous experience!
Day 7: Queenstown This morning you will make your way to Queenstown. You may like to stop along the way in quaint Arrowtown, or maybe a winery lunch at Amisfield Winery. Your accommodation for the next two nights is widely regarded as one of Queenstown’s top boutique hotels. Contemporary, timeless elegance in a property that takes its name from an original 1920’s corner store. You will be able to park your car and walk to nearby shops, restaurants, ride the gondola and stroll along the lakeside.
Day 9: Queenstown - Depart New Zealand Today you will have a free morning before returning your rental car to Queenstown airport and checking in for your flight to Auckland then on to the USA.
Package includes:
Round-trip airfare from Los Angeles on Air New Zealand and domestic flights within New Zealand
8 nights 4 ˝ and 5 star boutique accommodation
All breakfasts, two dinners
7 days intermediate size rental car incl. unlimited kms, daily insurance
Christchurch Meet and Greet and private transfer to accommodation
Two tickets to Christchurch Art Gallery latest exhibition
*Price is per person twin share departures commencing 9/31/09 – 03/21/10. Includes fuel surcharge. Excludes government fees and taxes up to $90 which encompasses passenger facility charges of $4.50 & September 11th security fee of $2.50 per enplanement in the USA to a maximum of $10. Pricing available for other times of year. Price reflects departures from Los Angeles in Pacific (economy) Class, valid on Air New Zealand flights and aircraft only. 7-day min. stay: 30-day max. Additional days and optional sightseeing can be added (additional cost). Stopover and upgrades on air available – please enquire for prices. Cancellation penalties apply. For rental car, mandatory CDW insurance is included. LDW bond of NZ$2812.50 is not included and is purchased on arrival in New Zealand. Bond is refundable when vehicle is returned undamaged. Cancellation penalties apply. Further restrictions may apply. Land portion operated by Active Downunder. CST#2060868-40.
* Advertised pricing - All itineraries are subject to seasonal price variations. Note, travel over the December / January time period may incur high season surcharges.
