Is this tour suitable for everyone?

The tour is suitable for most travellers, including families and older guests. Some short walks may be included during photo stops. If you have mobility concerns or prefer a slower pace, let us know — we can tailor recommendations.

Do I need to bring anything special?

We will send you a suggested gear list when you book. Bring a warm waterproof jacket, comfortable shoes, and a camera as the scenery is unforgettable. Water and lunch are provided, and you’re welcome to bring extra snacks and food.

Where does the tour depart from?

Pick-ups are usually from Christchurch Airport but we are happy to arrange a hotel pickup if your prefer.

Can I upgrade or customise the experience?

Yes - accommodation upgraded and other bespoke options can be arranged. Contact us for tailored itineraries.

Splendid South: 7 Days South Island Loop Tour Christchurch to Christchurch

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

An unforgettable 7-day South Island private tour experience from Christchurch to Christchurch, designed for small groups. Iconic sights, hidden gems & boutique stays.

Experience the very best of New Zealand’s South Island on this immersive 7-day journey designed by the expert team at Splendid South. Beginning and ending in Christchurch, this loop takes you through wild alpine West Coast landscapes, glacial lakes, rainforest coastlines, and iconic destinations like Queenstown and Tekapo with views of Aoraki/Mt Cook.

With private transport, exceptional accommodation, and a warm, knowledgeable English-speaking guide at your side, you’ll enjoy the comfort, insight, and personal service that Splendid South is known for.

Contact us to book or customise this tour to suit your dates, group size or interests. Or compare our 7-day South Island routes.

Trip Details and Highlights

Duration: 7 days, 6 nights
Start/End: Christchurch
Iconic destinations: West Coast, Franz Josef Glacier, Wanaka, Queenstown, Tekapo
Scenic drives: Arthur’s Pass, West Coast, Haast Pass
Helicopter flight over Franz Josef Glacier & Mt Cook (optional)
Scenic Skyline Gondola ride with optional luge adventure
Scenic flight or full-day tour to Milford Sound (optional)
Lakeview stay in Queenstown with leisure time
Tailored recommendations for restaurants, wineries and local attractions
Customisable accommodation: luxury lodge, five-star hotel, private villa or boutique alpine hotel
All transfers, guiding and bookings included for effortless planning

Day 1 :

Christchurch to Hokitika

Meet your private guide and journey west over Arthur’s Pass. Photo stops, short walks, waterfalls & alpine views en route before descending to the lush rainforest of the West Coast coast. Overnight in Hokitika.

Day 2 :

Hokitika to South Westland

Journey through temperate rainforest and coastal scenery. After lunch, enjoy a short easy walk to view Franz Josef Glacier*, before driving on to your beautiful, remote lodge. Enjoy a gourmet dinner and optional guided walk in this untouched wilderness. *If your group would rather view the Glacier by air, a scenic flight can be arranged for the next day instead.

Day 3 :

Helicopter over Franz Josef Glacier to Mt Cook, then to Wānaka

A morning scenic helicopter flight takes you soaring over the glaciers and into Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. By vehicle we then continue south over the Haast Pass with incredible photo stops, and on to charming Wānaka for lunch. Enjoy the afternoon exploring, shopping, walking or relaxing. Optional wine tour or other activities.

Day 04 :

Wānaka to Queenstown

Travel over the Crown Range into Queenstown. Settle into your private villa with spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu. Afternoon at leisure and get up the Skyline Gondola by early evening to marvel at the sunset. There is time for an afternoon adventure activity if you choose. We will make dinner reservations for you on request and have exceptional local knowledge to share.

Day 05 :

Queenstown at Leisure (or fly to Milford Sound)

Enjoy a relaxed day or add excitement with one of many unforgettable experiences. Talk to us about these options:

– Milford Sound flight + cruise
– Shotover Jetboat ride
– Skyline Gondola & Luge
– TSS Earnslaw steamship + Walter Peak BBQ lunch
– Wine tasting in the Gibbston Valley
– Ballooning over the mountains
– Skiing or Snowboarding (Winter & Early Spring only)
– A half-day guided local tour and short boat cruise

Day 06 :

Queenstown to Aoraki/Mt Cook to Christchurch

On the way out of Queenstown we will stop for you to see Bungee jumping at Kawarau Gorge. If any in your group want to do a Bungee jump, let us know so we can book this for you to align with the tour. Head north through the golden Lindis Pass and turquoise Lake Pukaki, returning to Christchurch via Lake Tekapo.

Day 07 :

Departure

Private morning transfer to Christchurch Airport for your onward flight.

Splendid South: 7 Days South Island Loop Tour Christchurch to Christchurch

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trip Details and Highlights

Itinerary (Day-by-Day)

From USD $3,950 pp twin share

Inclusions

Optional Upgrades

FAQs

You can send your enquiry via the form below.