5 Day South Island NZ Tour from Dunedin to Christchurch

South Island 5-Day Guided Tour from Dunedin to Christchurch

This 5-day guided tour covers South Island highlights of New Zealand, suitable for travelers seeking relaxed exploration with private transport and activities.

Highlights

• Visit Aoraki Mount Cook, Akaroa, Arthur's Pass, Lake Tekapo & Pukaki, Queenstown
• Explore Te Anau Glowworm Caves and choose between Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound cruises
• Enjoy optional handpicked activities and accommodations
• Avoid the stress of planning and long-distance driving

Description

Experience South Island's diverse landscapes and attractions with guided transport and expert support. Seven optional activities offer customized experiences.

Day 1: Dunedin – Te Anau – Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Begin with pickup in Dunedin, then travel to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. After check-in, take an evening tour of Te Anau Glowworm Caves illuminated by thousands of bioluminescent insects.

Day 2: Te Anau – Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound Cruise – Queenstown
Choose a morning cruise on Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound. Milford Sound includes scenic stops at Eglinton Flats, Mirror Lakes, Hollyford Valley Lookout, and Monkey Creek before cruising among peaks and waterfalls. Doubtful Sound features a lake crossing, Wilmot Pass, and a remote fiord with cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife. Return to Queenstown by scenic drive.

Day 3: Queenstown Exploration
Visit Queenstown Gardens and stroll central Queenstown streets. Relax by Lake Wakatipu before a thrill jet boating session. Take the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views and enjoy luge rides. Return to the hotel at sunset.

Day 4: Queenstown – Lindis Pass – Lake Pukaki – Aoraki Mount Cook – Lake Tekapo Stargazing
Travel via Lindis Pass to Lake Pukaki, an alpine glacier-fed lake. Visit Aoraki Mount Cook National Park for hiking options including Hooker Valley and Tasman Glacier walks. Spot the kea alpine parrot and take a scenic helicopter flight over the park valleys. Stay overnight at Lake Tekapo, a recognized Dark Sky Reserve, for evening stargazing.

Day 5: Lake Tekapo – Castle Hill – Arthur’s Pass – Otira Viaduct – TranzAlpine Train to Christchurch
Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and walk lakeside at Tekapo. Explore Castle Hill's limestone formations, then Arthur's Pass National Park with walks at Devil’s Punchbowl or Arthur’s Pass. View the Otira Viaduct Lookout before boarding the TranzAlpine Scenic Train to Christchurch. Arrive at Christchurch Railway Station for transfer to your accommodation.

Includes

• Private transportation with dedicated guide-driver for your group
• Onboard WiFi, packaged water, snacks, chocolates
• Use of charging cables and emergency rain gear
• Optional 'With Tickets' package: entry to 7 activities including TranzAlpine train, stargazing, helicopter ride, fiord cruises, glowworm caves, gondola with luge rides, and jet boating. Alternative activities offered if cancellations occur.
• Optional 'With Accommodation' package: 4 nights in 4 to 5-star hotels with breakfast, subject to availability

Excludes

• Meals and drinks except breakfast with the accommodation option
• Travel insurance
• Anything not listed under inclusions

Important Information

• Travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance.
• After booking, the supplier will contact you to confirm preferences.
• The 'With Tickets' option allows substitution of included activities with alternatives such as skydiving, horse trekking, scenic flights, glacier hiking, spa treatments, or ziplining, subject to availability and additional costs.

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.

For best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for optional activities and the accommodation package.