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10-Day Southern Icons Adventure Tour from Christchurch: Mt Cook, Dunedin, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown and Franz Josef | Flexible Independent Travel

(2 Reviews)
Product Code: 718308

OVERVIEW

Highlights

    Flexible Independent Travel
    • Embark on a stunning South Island adventure, beginning and ending in Christchurch, the "Garden City"
    • Journey through scenic plains to Aoraki/Mt Cook, home to New Zealand's tallest peak and the beautiful Tasman Glacier
    • Enjoy the alpine beauty and stargaze in the Dark Sky Reserve
    • Explore Dunedin's heritage and wildlife, including yellow-eyed penguins and albatross
    • Continue to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park
    • Cruise through Milford Sound's dramatic cliffs and waterfalls
    • In Queenstown, choose from a range of activities or relax by Lake Wakatipu
    • End with alpine exploration in Franz Josef, then board the iconic TranzAlpine train back to Christchurch
Tour Code
718308
Duration
10 day
Departure City
Christchurch
End City
Christchurch
Language
English

IS THIS TOUR FOR ME?

Tour Themes: Cultural & Historical

Learn about history and local culture with in-depth tours and activities

Tour Type: Independent Tour

No guide will be available except during included excursions/activities/transfers

Group Size: Standard Group Tour

Tour with fellow travelers from all over the world

Activity Level: Moderate

Designed for travelers in good health who are comfortable with light walking or hiking

Itinerary

Day 01
Christchurch

Christchurch

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Cotswold or similar

Meal: B:Excluded L:Excluded D:Excluded

【Private Transfer from the Christchurch International Airport to your Christchurch Accommodation】

On arrival, you will be met by a private driver and transferred to your accommodation.

【Welcome to Christchurch City】

Christchurch, New Zealand's Garden City, is evolving into a lively urban destination. Known for its expansive green spaces, tree-lined streets, and beautiful gardens, the city offers a great way to explore. Ride the historic trams to visit the famous Botanic Gardens and the unique Transitional Cathedral, which is built entirely of cardboard!

Tips:
The Scenic Hotel Cotswold is just a few minutes walk to boutique shopping at Merivale and Hagley Park. The distinctive architecture of the Scenic Hotel Cotswold reflects Christchurch's image as the most English of cities outside of England.

Meal

  • B:Excluded
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 02

Christchurch - Mt Cook

Hotel: Hermitage Hotel Room Mount Cook View or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Included D:Excluded

【Christchurch to Mt Cook via Lake Tekapo Small Group Tour - Lunch Included】

This small group, fully-guided day trip combines all of the key highlights in the area with the famous Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park and Tasman Glacier. The ultimate way to get from Christchurch to Aoraki/Mt Cook. Led by famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

【Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre Museum and Theatre Explorer Pass】

A tribute to New Zealand's Sir Edmund Hillary, a humanitarian, ambassador, and one of the world's greatest explorers. The centre showcases the Aoraki Mt Cook region, the history of climbing, and early transport used throughout the region. This comprehensive museum details the life of Sir Edmund Hillary, the Hermitage, and provides access to the 126-seat custom-designed theatre. Check out the daily film schedule which includes 3D movies, documentaries, and 360-degree digital dome features.

Tips:
The Hermitage Hotel ringed by magnificent snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, is a world-renowned tourist destination and has been an icon of superior accommodation and dining since 1884.

Visiting Attractions

  • Lake Tekapo Lake Tekapo
  • Mount Cook National Park Mount Cook National Park

Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Included
  • D:Excluded
Day 03
Oamaru

Mt Cook - Dunedin

Hotel: Distinction Dunedin Hotel or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

【Mt Cook to Dunedin Transfer】

In the afternoon you will be picked up from your accommodation in Mt Cook Village for the journey through to Dunedin. Along the way you stop for a short break in Omarama, then onto Oamaru for a scenic tour of the historic Whitestone Precinct. You will then enjoy a guided walk along Koekohe Beach at Moeraki Boulders before reaching Dunedin, where you will be dropped off at your accommodation.

Tips:
Distinction Dunedin Hotel occupies the grand Chief Post Office built in the 1930’s. This art deco inspired building has recently been transformed into a 4 star hotel with elegant décor, set in the heart of the city.

Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 04
Dunedin

Dunedin

Hotel: Distinction Dunedin Hotel or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

【Castle to Cruise Tour and Penguin Place】

Today, explore the wildlife and history of the Otago Peninsula. Embark on a wildlife cruise aboard the MV Monarch around Taiaroa Head, home to the world’s only mainland Royal Albatross nesting site. Spot New Zealand fur seals, sea lions, and possibly penguins, dolphins, and other marine birds. On land, take a guided tour of Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle, built in 1871, and learn about its intriguing history and scandals. End the day at the Otago Peninsula Eco Restoration Alliance, a nesting site for the rare Yellow-eyed Penguin.

Tips:
Distinction Dunedin Hotel occupies the grand Chief Post Office built in the 1930’s. This art deco inspired building has recently been transformed into a 4 star hotel with elegant décor, set in the heart of the city.

Visiting Attractions

  • Otago Peninsula Otago Peninsula
  • Larnach Castle Larnach Castle

Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 05
Te Anau

Dunedin - Te Anau

Hotel: Distinction Luxmore Hotel or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

【Dunedin to Te Anau Transfer】

Dunedin to Te Anau TransferThe drive to Te Anau takes you through Southland farmland, passing the peaceful river town of Balclutha, known for its arched bridge over the Clutha River, a popular fishing spot. Continue through the rural town of Clinton and on to Gore, the country music capital, also renowned for fly fishing. Enjoy the lush farmland views as you head east to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound.

【Ata Whenua - Shadowland Film at Fiordland Cinema】

This breathtaking 'Fiordland On Film - Ata Whenua' will take you on an unforgettable journey through one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on earth. Shot by award-winning cinematographers with outstanding musical composition, this is the next best thing to a scenic flight over this spectacular wilderness.

Tips:
The perfect base for all your Fiordland travel, Distinction Luxmore Hotel provides comfortable accommodation right in the heart of Te Anau.

Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 06
Queenstown

Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown

Hotel: Ramada Hotel & Suites Queenstown Central or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Included D:Excluded

【Milford Sound Cruise with Return Luxury Coach Transfers from Te Anau, and onto Queenstown】

From Te Anau, you travel by coach along the spectacular Milford Road. Photo stops are made on the way into Milford, with additional photo stops and a short walk on the return journey. The experienced drivers enjoy sharing their knowledge of the area. On reaching Milford Sound, you join a Cruise for a leisurely cruise the full-length of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea. The cruise provides excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time is available to enjoy waterfalls, rainforests, mountains and wildlife. During the cruise, your friendly crew provide commentaries in several languages and point out sights such as Mitre Peak and the Pembroke Glacier.

 

Tips:
Ramada Hotel & Suites offers well-appointed apartment-style rooms located in the heart of Queenstown. Experience tranquillity all year round, overlooking the shores of Lake Wakatipu and within walking distance of Queenstown's central shopping and entertainment area.

Visiting Attractions

  • Milford Sound Milford Sound

Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Included
  • D:Excluded
Day 07
Queenstown

Queenstown

Hotel: Ramada Hotel & Suites Queenstown Central or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

【Queenstown】

Queenstown offers far more than a fast-paced, action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic, and scenic wonders. Whether you are looking for a scenic short walk or a longer one, you will find the perfect hike or bike trail in Queenstown. Explore Queenstown Gardens, or try out more challenging trails up to Ben Lomond Walkaway or Queenstown Hill Walking Track. Enjoy iconic views and take Queenstown Gondola up 450 metres to Bob's Peak, or ride on the 100-year-old Steamship - the TSS Earnslaw - to Walter Peak Station for dinner and a farm tour. Browse the waterfront cafes and al fresco restaurants, try out the famous Fergburger, or grab a dessert at Patagonia Chocolates.

Tips:
Ramada Hotel & Suites offers well-appointed apartment-style rooms located in the heart of Queenstown. Experience tranquillity all year round, overlooking the shores of Lake Wakatipu and within walking distance of Queenstown’s central shopping and entertainment area.

Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 08
Franz Josef

Queenstown - Franz Josef

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

【Queenstown to Franz Josef Transfer】

Leaving Queenstown, travel past picturesque scenery of massive mountain peaks and crystal-clear blue lakes. Travel across the Haast Pass to the other side of the Southern Alps, the landscape changes dramatically. Welcome to the wild and wonderful West Coast, a remote and unspoiled region. Wind your way past native rainforest, rocky coastlines and powerful waterfalls. Your journey concludes in the village of Franz Josef, your base for exploration of the area.

【Glacier Valley Shuttle】

You will be met at your accommodation by a representative from Glacier Shuttles and taken on a short tour to view the glacier. Your shuttle vehicle will transfer you up the Franz Josef valley to the road end. Here you will have the opportunity to walk to view the glacier from a viewing platform. Or enjoy one of the short walks available in this area. You will be returned to your accommodation by the Glacier Valley Shuttles.

Tips:
Only a breath away from the Franz Josef Glacier, Scenic Hotel is located in the heart of Franz Josef Village. Here you will find all of the amenities you would expect, as well as being close to the shops, restaurants and activities on offer in the beautiful Westland region.

Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 09
Christchurch

Franz Josef - TranzAlpine Scenic Train - Christchurch

Hotel: Scenic Hotel Cotswold or similar

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

【Franz Josef to Greymouth Train Station Transfer】

Head north from Franz Josef to the historic gold mining region of Hokitika. Known for its Pounamu (New Zealand Greenstone) this seaside town has a rich history dating back to the 1860's. Continue to Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast and the starting point for the next leg of your journey - the TranzAlpine Scenic Train.

【TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch】

Considered one of the world's great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch. Travel across the South Island from the west to the east coast through Arthur's Pass National Park. From the comfort of your carriage see lush beech forest, deep river valleys and the spectacular peaks of the Southern Alps. Descend to the windswept Canterbury Plains before arriving in the city of Christchurch.

【Shared Transfer from the TranzAlpine Railway Station to your Christchurch Accommodation】

On arrival at the Christchurch railway station, you will be met by a driver and transferred to youraccommodation.

Tips:
The Scenic Hotel Cotswold is just a few minutes walk to boutique shopping at Merivale and Hagley Park. The distinctive architecture of the Scenic Hotel Cotswold reflects Christchurch's image as the most English of cities outside of England.

Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Day 10
Christchurch

Christchurch

Meal: B:Included L:Excluded D:Excluded

【Private Transfer from your Christchurch Accommodation to the Christchurch Airport】

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to Christchurch Airport in time for your departing flight.

Meal

  • B:Included
  • L:Excluded
  • D:Excluded
Please note that order of day-to-day itinerary is adjustable depending on tour start day.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Package Includes

    • 9-Night 3 Star Hotel Accommodations including Breakfast
    • Private Transfer from Christchurch International Airport to Christchurch Accommodation
    • Christchurch to Mt Cook via Lake Tekapo Small Group Tour - Lunch Included
    • Sir Edmund Hilary Alpine Centre Museum and Theatre Explorer Pass
    • Mt Cook to Dunedin Transfer
    • Castle to Cruise Tour + Penguin Experience
    • Dunedin to Te Anau Transfer
    • Ata Whenua - Shadowland Film at Fiordland Cinema
    • Milford Sound Cruise from Te Anau and Returning to Queenstown
    • Queenstown to Franz Josef Transfer
    • Glacier Valley Shuttle
    • Franz Josef to Greymouth Train Station Transfer
    • TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch
    • Shared Transfer from the TranzAlpine Railway Station to Christchurch Accommodation
    • Private Transfer from Christchurch Accommodation to Christchurch Airport
    • Electronic Travel Guide and In-County Support App (The guest will have access to the local operator's travel APP, which has your itinerary outlined day by day with timings etc.)

Package Excludes

    • Live tour guide
    • Flights
    • Lunch or Dinner (unless outlined in the inclusions)

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation made within:

  • 0 - 09 Days Prior to Departure Date - Non-refundable
  • 10 - 22 Days Prior to Departure Date - 30% of total purchase amount can be refunded
  • 23 - 62 Days Prior to Departure Date - 45% of total purchase amount can be refunded
  • 63 or More Days - 80% of total purchase amount can be refunded
Please Note:
Amendment Policy:  
• Dates of the tour can be changed at any time (subject to availability of the specific components), however any costs such as hotel amendment fees or cancellation costs will be passed to you. If the start date of the tour is moved inside 9 days or arrival, a fee of NZD$275.00 per person applies plus any cancellation costs imposed by third party suppliers. Moving arrangements to different dates may incur additional costs due to seasonal changes.

Special Notes

    • We offer hotel extension service, if you need the additional service, please contact us for the quotation.
    • Flexible Independent Travel means you will be on your own, following the itinerary that has been laid out.
    • The local operator's electronic travel guide and in-country support app is a travel app that has the itinerary loaded along with a messaging component that allows you to message the concierge team if you have any question that is non-urgent. You will receive the information about how to download the app once your booking is confirmed. With your email address and a unique password, you will have the access to your itinerary details. You will be able to click into your itinerary day-by-day with everything laid out based on your accommodation, activities etc. Timings and locations are all outlined. It also provides information about each location.
  • Depending on your arrival time, your hotel room may not be available until the afternoon. Most hotels allow check-in between 1:00pm-3:00pm, however some charge a fee for early check-in. Please check at the hotel desk to see if you may store your luggage at the hotel if you wish to explore the city on your own before check-in.
  • The time we mentioned in the itinerary is for reference only. Please refer to your guide on tour for the actual arrangement. The visiting order and duration might be changed according to actual and practical situation for better service.
  • This tour/activity is overseen by a select local operator in the region. Upon booking your tour or activity and after receiving confirmation, you will be issued an e-ticket detailing the local operator's name and contact information. If you require assistance finding a specific tour, please contact us for more information.

Pricing Info

Your reservation is always subject to confirmation by email, normally within one to two business days.

* Price for Single Occupancy applies when one person stays in one standard hotel room.
* Price for Double Occupancy applies when two people stay in one standard hotel room.
* Maximum room capacity: 2 people including adult and child/infant.

Reservation Info

    1.Immediately after submitting your reservation you will receive a Receipt of Reservation via email.
    2. Within one to two business days of submitting your reservation you will receive a status update email from us. If you need to book an airline ticket, we recommend that you do so after you receive a confirmation of your tour reservation from us.
    3. An E-Ticket will be sent to you via email as soon as details of your reservation are confirmed or your supporting information is received by us. We will provide you with all detailed information about your tour on the E-Ticket. Contact information for local tour provider will be included on E-Ticket for your convenience or re-confirmation purpose if re-confirmation is required.
    4. Simply print your E-Ticket and present it with your valid photo ID on the day of your activity to your tour guide. Please remember E-Ticket is your proof of purchase.

Terms and Conditions

    - Your purchase does not guarantee confirmation. Your purchase will initiate a reservation process. We will confirm with you via email within one to two business days.
    - Prices may vary due to availability. We reserve the right to make price adjustment without prior notice.
    - Please refer to our Standard Amendment, Cancellation and Refund Policy before you make reservation.
    - Please refer to Customer Agreement before you make reservation.
    - Local tour provider reserves the right to make modifications to tour arrangements including order of tour activities, hotel and its location if deemed necessary.

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    Conditional Cancellation
    This tour qualifies for: Free Cancellation 25 or more Days Prior to Departure
    • 16-24 Days Prior to Departure Date - 75% of total purchase amount can be refunded
    • 7-15 Days Prior to Departure Date - 50% of total purchase amount can be refunded
    • 6 Days Prior to Departure Date - Non-refundable
    All cancellations must be made directly with Tours4Fun, not with tour providers. The day mentioned above is based on the date we receive your signed Cancellation Request Form and travel service start date (departure date).
    • 0 - 09 Days Prior to Departure Date - Non-refundable
    • 10 - 22 Days Prior to Departure Date - 30% of total purchase amount can be refunded
    • 23 - 62 Days Prior to Departure Date - 45% of total purchase amount can be refunded
    • 63 or More Days - 80% of total purchase amount can be refunded
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