13-Nights New Zealand: Southern Horizons - Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown, Franz Joseph from $7,679

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Wellington; Arrival in Wellington

Arrive in Wellington. You will be met and transferred to your hotel for a 3-night stay. The remainder of your day is free to explore; you may choose to ride the famous Wellington Cable Car for beautiful city views.

Day 2: Wellington; Wellington - Capital Bites Tour

Wellington isn’t just New Zealand’s political capital - it’s a culinary hotspot, known for everything from fine dining to hidden foodie gems. On this three-hour walking tour, you’ll explore vibrant neighborhoods like Cuba Street, the Waterfront, Willis Street, and Lambton Quay, sampling local flavors at a Maori waterfront eatery, a beloved Italian pizzeria, award-winning chocolate makers, a trendy food alley, and one of the city’s top restaurants. It’s the perfect blend of food, culture, and local character.

Day 3: Wellington; Wellington - Te Papa Highlights Tour & Weta Workshop Experience

This morning, enjoy a 60-minute guided introduction to the highlights of Te Papa’s taonga—the treasured cultural artifacts of the Maori people. This small group tour with an expert guide offers deeper insight and a richer understanding of Aotearoa’s unique heritage. Later, discover the creativity of Weta Workshop with a behind-the-scenes look at the props, models, and movie magic that brought world-famous films to life.

Day 4: Kaikoura; Transfer from Wellington to Kaikoura

This morning, head to the Interislander Ferry terminal for a scenic cruise across the Cook Strait and through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds to Picton. Upon arrival, collect your rental vehicle and drive along the picturesque Pacific Coast to Kaikoura. Marvel at ocean views, cliffs, and native wildlife on your way to this charming seaside town.

Day 5: Christchurch; Kaikoura - Whale Watching Cruise & Transfer to Christchurch

Join Whale Watch Kaikoura for an unforgettable marine adventure to spot giant sperm whales, dolphins, fur seals, and seabirds. After your cruise, continue your journey south, making your way to Christchurch via rolling farmland and coastal towns.

Day 6: Mount Cook; Mt Cook - Queenstown (B)

The Glacier Explorers 2.5-hour experience offers a truly unique way to encounter the Tasman Glacier—New Zealand’s largest glacier—up close. After a refreshing 30-minute walk to the glacier’s terminal lake, you’ll board a stable boat with an expert guide to explore the surreal, iceberg-dotted waters. Imagine drifting past towering ice formations that began their journey as snow nearly 300 years ago, now glistening and melting into the lake. Over the course of an hour, your guide will share the fascinating history of the glacier, the lake, and the surrounding Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, bringing the landscape to life. All of this unfolds against a breathtaking backdrop of New Zealand’s highest and most dramatic peaks, including Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman—an unforgettable adventure in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring alpine environments.,After your glacier adventure, continue your journey through the stunning Southern Alps, passing turquoise lakes and sweeping high country landscapes. The drive to Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s most scenic, leading you to the adventure capital nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

Day 7: Queenstown; Queenstown (B)

The Glacier Explorers 2.5-hour experience offers a truly unique way to encounter the Tasman Glacier—New Zealand’s largest glacier—up close. After a refreshing 30-minute walk to the glacier’s terminal lake, you’ll board a stable boat with an expert guide to explore the surreal, iceberg-dotted waters. Imagine drifting past towering ice formations that began their journey as snow nearly 300 years ago, now glistening and melting into the lake. Over the course of an hour, your guide will share the fascinating history of the glacier, the lake, and the surrounding Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, bringing the landscape to life. All of this unfolds against a breathtaking backdrop of New Zealand’s highest and most dramatic peaks, including Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman—an unforgettable adventure in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring alpine environments.,After your glacier adventure, continue your journey through the stunning Southern Alps, passing turquoise lakes and sweeping high country landscapes. The drive to Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s most scenic, leading you to the adventure capital nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

Day 8: Queenstown; Explore Milford Sound (B,L)

Today, experience the stunning Milford Sound! After check-in, your pilot will brief you on the scenic 35-minute flight to Milford Sound, showcasing highlights like Skippers Canyon, the Paradise region, and Donne Glacier. Upon arrival, you’ll board the Spirit of Milford for a nature cruise through the fiord, with onboard guides and capped passenger numbers ensuring a more personal experience. After exploring waterfalls, wildlife, and dramatic cliffs, enjoy a stunning return flight over alpine lakes and the majestic Sutherland Falls, concluding your unforgettable five-hour adventure back in Queenstown.

Day 9: Queenstown; Queenstown (B)

Today is free to explore Queenstown at your leisure.

Day 10: Franz Josef Glacier; Queenstown - Franz Josef (B,D)

Departing Queenstown, your journey to Franz Josef takes you on one of New Zealand’s most spectacular drives. Winding through the dramatic landscapes of the Southern Alps, you’ll pass crystal-clear lakes, rugged mountain ranges, and lush rainforests. Highlights along the way include the charming town of Wanaka, the stunning Haast Pass with its waterfalls and alpine views, and the wild West Coast, where the scenery shifts to dense native bush and rocky river valleys. This ever-changing landscape creates a breathtaking backdrop for your road trip, ultimately leading you to the glacier town of Franz Josef—an unforgettable destination nestled in the heart of a World Heritage area.

Day 11: Franz Josef Glacier; Franz Josef (B,D)

Today, experience the best of both worlds with an unforgettable Franz Josef Glacier Encounter. Your adventure begins with a breathtaking helicopter flight from Franz Josef, soaring above lush native rainforest, the rugged West Coast shoreline, and the vast expanse of the Southern Alps. As you fly toward the glacier’s neve, enjoy panoramic views stretching from the Tasman Sea to the towering peaks. You'll land high on the icefall at approximately 1,300 meters, where you’ll step onto the ancient glacier itself—an awe-inspiring landscape carved over thousands of years. With exclusive access provided by Franz Josef Glacier Guides, your time on the ice includes incredible photo opportunities and fascinating insights into the glacier’s history and cultural significance, creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience in one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders.,This afternoon, embark on a scenic cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Mapourika, followed by an exclusive guided walk through a pristine rainforest trail within the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary. Accessible only by boat, this hidden gem feels like stepping into a Jurassic world, where ancient trees, rich native bush, and abundant birdlife—including white herons and native species—surround you. The custom-built trail, carefully crafted by your skipper Dale and his team, offers a low-impact way to experience the untouched beauty of the West Coast rainforest, making this cruise and nature walk a truly immersive and unforgettable part of your Franz Josef adventure.

Day 12: Christchurch; Franz Josef - Greymouth - Christchurch (B)

This morning, depart Franz Josef and enjoy a scenic drive north along the rugged West Coast to Greymouth. The route takes you through lush rainforest, alongside wild coastlines, and past charming small towns—offering a final taste of the region’s natural beauty. Upon arrival in Greymouth, return your rental vehicle and board the iconic TranzAlpine train, one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. As you cross the Southern Alps, marvel at dramatic gorges, alpine peaks, and sweeping Canterbury Plains before arriving in Christchurch. On arrival, a private transfer will take you to your hotel, where you'll settle in for a relaxing two-night stay.

Day 13: Christchurch; Christchurch & Akaroa (B,L)

Visit the beautiful unspoilt old French whaling depot of Akaroa. A charming small township nestled in an inner harbour bay of Akaroa Harbour on Banks Peninsula.,The township contains a host of historic buildings, craft and gift shops together with a multitude of idyllic photo opportunities. Enjoy lunch before boarding a cruise on Akaroa Harbour. On your return journey to Christchurch a stop will be made at the Barry’s Bay Cheese factory, where you will get to sample some fine New Zealand cheese

Day 14: Christchurch; Depart Christchurch (B)

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before transferring to Christchurch Airport

13 Breakfast, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners