[13N14D · Round Trip] South Island Grand Tour

A scenic Pacific coastal drive along State Highway 1. Stop at Tawanui Farm for a taste of New Zealand rural life, then continue to Kaikoura — the whale-watching capital of the world. Join a whale watching tour (optional) to spot sperm whales surfacing just metres away.

Head north through Marlborough — New Zealand's largest wine region — with a Sauvignon Blanc tasting stop along the way. Arrive at Abel Tasman where golden beaches and emerald water await tomorrow's exploration.

A full free day in New Zealand's smallest national park. Kayak along golden-sand coastline, join a water taxi to secluded bays, or skydive (optional) for breathtaking aerial views of the national park. Completely your call.

Travel south via Nelson Lakes National Park's crystal-clear alpine lake. The panorama of Lake Rotoiti from the Conical Hill Walk summit is a beautiful reward for the journey, before arriving at the alpine hot-springs town of Hanmer Springs.

Soak in South Island's finest outdoor thermal pools — mineral-rich warm waters set against a mountain backdrop. Water slides and private spa pools are also on offer. In the afternoon, explore the Hanmer Forest Park on foot or by mountain bike.

Return to Christchurch via Lewis Pass, stopping to discover the city's vibrant post-earthquake rebirth. Colourful street art, the Iron Ridge Sculpture Park, and striking container architecture tell a story of resilience and creativity.

A day trip to the stunning Akaroa Peninsula — one of the most scenic drives from Christchurch. Stroll through a charming French-heritage harbour village, then join the Pohatu Penguin Nature Tour to meet the world's smallest blue penguins up close.

Cross the dramatic Southern Alps via Arthur's Pass, pausing at the 131m Devil's Punchbowl Waterfall. Descend into the lush West Coast rainforest and arrive at Franz Josef — gateway to one of the most accessible glaciers on earth.

Walk the Glacier Valley Track as towering white ice walls close in through the gorge — a free and unforgettable hike. For the ultimate experience, add a heli-hike (optional) to land on the snowfield and walk among ancient crevasses.

Drive through the ancient Haast Pass rainforest to Wanaka. Stop at Lake Matheson's surreal mirror reflections and the iconic #ThatWanakaTree. Arrive in Wanaka as the mountains turn golden at dusk.

Pass through Arrowtown's gold-rush stone buildings and autumn-coloured lanes, stopping at the world's first commercial bungee site — Kawarau Bridge. Arrive in Queenstown as Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables create a stunning skyline welcome.

A full free day in New Zealand's adventure capital. Choose bungee jumping, jet boating, skydiving (optional), or simply explore the lakefront cafés and Skyline Gondola. End the evening with dinner overlooking Lake Wakatipu's glittering night lights.

Depart at dawn through Fiordland National Park — as you emerge from the Homer Tunnel, Milford Sound's sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls unfold before you. A 2-hour cruise through this UNESCO World Heritage fiord is the journey's undisputed highlight.

The grand finale: travel via Lake Tekapo's turquoise shores. The Church of the Good Shepherd and Mount John Observatory frame a perfect panorama of mountains and lake. After two unforgettable weeks exploring the entire South Island, return to Christchurch.