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 Day South Island Tour Queenstown to Christchurch

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Fly into Queenstown and enjoy our Splendid South: 7 Days of South Island Magic signature travel package, combining iconic sights, hidden gems, and seamless logistics into one effortless journey.

This epic adventures takes you from Queenstown to Milford Sound, then on to Mount Cook, Tekapo and Christchurch. This is a one way tour. Alternatively, see our Christchurch to Christchurch 7 day tour route via the rugged West Coast.

Accommodation and activity availability is limited during peak seasons so an early booking is strongly recommended.

Contact us to book or customise this tour to suit your dates, group size or interests.

Trip Details and Highlights

Duration: 7 days, 6 nights
Start: Queenstown
End: Christchurch
Explore Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital, with a stay in a private villa overlooking Lake Wakatipu
Scenic Skyline Gondola ride with optional luge adventure
Scenic flight or full-day tour to Milford Sound (optional)
All transfers, guiding and activity bookings for effortless planning
Drive the Crown Range and stay lakeside in Wānaka
Walk the Hooker Valley Track beneath Aoraki/Mt Cook
Visit Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd
Return via the golden Canterbury Plains and Rakaia Gorge to Christchurch
Tailored recommendations for restaurants, wineries and local attractions

Day 1 :

Arrival in Queenstown

Arrive at Queenstown Airport and meet your private guide. Settle into your lakeview villa and enjoy a relaxed afternoon. Depending on timing, explore Arrowtown’s gold-rush charm or ride the Skyline Gondola for sunset views.

Day 2 :

Queenstown at Leisure (Optional Milford Sound Flight & Cruise)

A free day to soak in Queenstown’s alpine setting or add one of the region’s iconic adventures:
– Scenic flight and cruise in Milford Sound
– Jetboating the Shotover River
– Wine tasting in the Gibbston Valley
– Hot air ballooning at sunrise
Evening free to dine at one of Queenstown’s celebrated restaurants. We can advise and book for you.

Day 3 :

Queenstown to Wānaka

Travel over the Crown Range, New Zealand’s highest sealed road, and descend into Wānaka. Enjoy lakefront walks, boutique shops, or short hikes before relaxing in your boutique lodge.

Day 04 :

Wānaka to Aoraki/Mt Cook

Journey through the golden tussocks of the Lindis Pass to the turquoise shores of Lake Pukaki. Enter Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park and take the famous Hooker Valley Track across swing bridges with glacier views. Stay overnight in Mt Cook Village or nearby Twizel. Optional stargazing after dark.

Day 05 :

Aoraki/Mt Cook at Leisure

A full day in the national park offers plenty of options:
– Scenic helicopter flight with glacier landing
– Boat trip on the Tasman Glacier lake
– Guided alpine walk
Evening at leisure in your lodge with views of New Zealand’s highest peaks.

Day 06 :

Mt Cook to Lake Tekapo to Christchurch

Depart Mt Cook and continue to Lake Tekapo. Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and, if time allows, enjoy the hot springs overlooking the lake. Travel onward via the rolling Canterbury Plains and Rakaia Gorge to Christchurch.

Day 07 :

Departure

Private morning transfer to Christchurch Airport for your onward flight.

Splendid South: 7 Day South Island Tour Queenstown to Christchurch

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Trip Details and Highlights

Itinerary

From USD $3,950 pp twin share

Inclusions

Optional Extras

FAQs

You can send your enquiry via the form below.