Experience ultimate relaxation and enjoyment in the breathtaking town of Tekapo. Nestled between Christchurch and Queenstown, Lake Tekapo is situated at the heart of the Mackenzie Basin and Cook Mountain Basin. To the north, you’ll find the pristine emerald waters of the lake, while the majestic Southern Alps grace the opposite shore. Glacier-derived rock-pink suspended in the lake gives Lake Tekapo its striking turquoise hue. Along the lakeshore, you’ll discover the charming Church of the Good Shepherd, which frames a magnificent view of Mount Cook through its altar window.
Embark on a helicopter journey to the stunning Tasman Glacier, where you’ll soar above the Southern Alps and embark on an epic 2-hour hiking adventure. Starting from Mount Cook Airport, you’ll fly over the picturesque Tasman Glacier Lake and the icy formations downstream, reaching an elevation of 3,000 meters. In the shadows of the Southern Alps’ highest peaks, Aoraki and Tasman, you’ll explore the undulating ice formations. Equipped with glacier boots and trekking poles, you’ll spend the next 2 hours in a different world amidst the mountains. On the return flight, you’ll glide past the towering Hochstetter Icefall, a 1,000-meter-high (3,200-foot) spectacle on the eastern face of Aoraki / Mount Cook.
Board the TSS Earnslaw, a vintage steamship, for a nostalgic journey reminiscent of the early 20th century. As the TSS Earnslaw gracefully cruises Lake Whakatipu, you can observe stokers working alongside the boilers, feel the warmth of the funnel’s exhaust, and listen to the rhythmic hum of the steam engine. Explore the Walter Peak High-Country Farm to learn about high-country living. Upon disembarking, our rural host will guide you through this historically significant farm. Experience sheep shearing, watch farm dogs rounding up sheep, visit the livestock pens, feed the animals, and savor freshly baked afternoon tea in a charming rustic woolshed.
Ride the iconic Skyline Gondola, the Southern Hemisphere’s steepest cable car, for stunning views of Queenstown and the surrounding mountains. At 480 meters above Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu, you’ll reach Bob’s Peak, offering a 220-degree panoramic view. From the viewing platform, enjoy a magnificent vista of the lake and mountains, including Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Walter Peak, and Cecil Peak. Taste top New Zealand cuisine at Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar while exploring the southern night sky.
Itinerary
Kaikoura Fishing
On a fishing trip lasting several hours to half a day, you can catch various fish, including the renowned New Zealand crayfish, which is plentiful in the coastal waters of Kaikoura.
Seal Colony
Kaikoura is New Zealand’s marine wildlife hub, with over 5,000 New Zealand Fur Seals residing along its coastline. You can observe these charming seals lounging in the sun in groups, either on boardwalks or on the rocky shores.
Morning Itinerary
Kaikoura Fishing
On a fishing trip lasting several hours to half a day, you can catch various fish, including the renowned New Zealand crayfish, which is plentiful in the coastal waters of Kaikoura.
Afternoon Itinerary
Seal Colony
Kaikoura is New Zealand’s marine wildlife hub, with over 5,000 New Zealand Fur Seals residing along its coastline. You can observe these charming seals lounging in the sun in groups, either on boardwalks or on the rocky shores.
Morning Itinerary
Whale Watching
Cruise along the coastline to watch giant sperm whales, with the opportunity to see other marine mammal species.
Afternoon Itinerary
Depart to Hanmer Springs
Hanmer Springs boasts 15 outdoor hot pools, a freshwater pool, and a recreational area with a waterslide, providing an indulgent and thrilling experience.
Morning Itinerary
International Antarctic Centre
Explore the four Antarctic seasons, face Antarctic storms, learn about scientists’ lives in Antarctica, visit New Zealand’s Scott Base, and get close to little blue penguin families!
Afternoon Itinerary
Punting On the Avon
Enjoy a leisurely punt on the Avon River while taking in the ever-changing views of the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens and the city center. Let the experienced punter guide you and immerse yourself in the charm of the Edwardian era.
Morning Itinerary
Depart to Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo undergoes ever-changing transformations from dawn to dusk. Its serene waters, mirroring the surroundings, offer a tranquil setting with scattered stones along the shore.
Afternoon Itinerary
Mt. John Stargazing tour
Visit the Mount John Observatory, operated by the University of Canterbury, to explore the scientific wonders of the southern hemisphere’s night sky using various refracting telescopes. Listen to timeless legends.
Morning Itinerary
Lake Pukaki
On your way to New Zealand’s highest peak, Mount Cook, along State Highway 80, you’ll encounter a stunning and unforgettable sight – the brilliantly blue Lake Pukaki, celebrated as one of New Zealand’s most beautiful lakes.
Afternoon Itinerary
Depart to Mount Cook for Tasman Glacier Heli Hike
This adventure combines a thrilling helicopter flight to Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, with an exciting glacier hike on the country’s largest glacier.
Morning Itinerary
Royal Albatross Centre
Feel the wonder of a 3-meter wingspan albatross gracefully soaring near you, while discovering interesting insights about these remarkable seabirds.
Afternoon Itinerary
Moeraki Boulders
Venture through regenerated native forests and enjoy the stunning landscape of the Moeraki Boulders. If you’re lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of Hector’s dolphins frolicking in the sea.
Blue Penguin Colony
The Little Blue Penguin, the world’s smallest penguin at 20-30cm in height, returns home in groups at nightfall. They follow a regular schedule, leaving at sunrise and returning at sunset. You can observe their journey back to their nests while guides explain their habits.
Morning Itinerary
Experience Jet boat
Hop on a jet boat, glide through stunning narrow canyons, and savor a one-of-a-kind, thrilling journey.
Afternoon Itinerary
Skyline Gondola + Summit Buffet Dinner
Ride Queenstown’s iconic Skyline Gondola for breathtaking panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains. Dine at the Stratosfare Restaurant and enjoy a meal while taking in the night scenery.
Morning Itinerary
Depart to Glenorchy
Glenorchy, situated on the northern shore of Lake Wakatipu, is a mere 45-minute drive from Queenstown and serves as the gateway to various hiking trails and the magical realm of Middle-earth.
Afternoon Itinerary
TSS Earnslaw Lake Cruises
Take a ride on the TSS vintage steamship and cruise the stunning Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown. You can also choose to visit Walter Peak Farm for close animal encounters, and wool shearing demonstrations, and indulge in a classic New Zealand BBQ feast.
Full-day Itinerary
Depart to Milford Sound
Embark on a cruise that takes you all the way to the end of Milford Sound. Experience the thrill of passing beneath stunning waterfalls, feeling the mist on your face, and the opportunity to spot rare wildlife like dolphins, penguins, and seals up close.
Morning Itinerary
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Observe the rushing waters sculpting ancient rock formations, admire the diverse array of ancient pillars, and then venture into the pitch-black and tranquil glowworm cave, where thousands of glowworms will illuminate a marvelous tapestry for you.
Afternoon Itinerary
Onsen Hot Pools
Soak in a hot spring among the cliff-top cedars, enjoying the beautiful mountain views.
Morning Itinerary
Arrowtown
Arrowtown, nestled along the Arrow River, is one of New Zealand’s most picturesque settlements. Enjoy a leisurely walk along tree-lined streets, taking in the restored cottages and gold mining heritage.
Afternoon Itinerary
Blue Pools Track
Stroll through the beautiful ancient forest, cross the suspension bridge, and experience the pristine waters of the Makarora River’s Blue Pools.
Morning Itinerary
Lake Wanaka and That Wanaka Tree
The crystal-clear waters of Lake Wanaka, nestled among the mountains, resemble a sapphire gem.
Afternoon Itinerary
Christchurch Tramway Dinner
The one-of-a-kind tramway restaurant in New Zealand, where you can savor a delicious dinner while enjoying the bustling city center views.
