Celebrate Christmas on an 11-day South Island journey, travelling by premium small-group coach through alpine scenery, historic towns, fiords and glacier country. Highlights include a Doubtful Sound overnight cruise, Christmas Day in Queenstown, elegant dining and carefully selected 4–5 star accommodation.
11 Day / 10 Night Tour
$9,629
87+ Booked
11 Day / 10 Night Tour
$9,629
87+ Booked
Arrive in Christchurch and transfer to your central hotel. This evening, enjoy a welcome drink and festive dinner with fellow travellers and your Coach Captain as your South Island journey begins. Overnight in Christchurch.
Visit the International Antarctic Centre before a guided city sights tour showcasing Christchurch’s heritage and modern rebuild. Enjoy a leisurely ride on the historic tram, with the evening free to dine at leisure. Overnight in Christchurch.
Travel across the Canterbury Plains to Lake Tekapo, stopping at the Church of the Good Shepherd. Continue into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, surrounded by alpine scenery. Optional scenic flights available. Overnight in Mount Cook Village.
Follow the Waitaki River to Oamaru, known for its limestone architecture, then continue to Dunedin. Enjoy a guided city tour highlighting Scottish heritage and coastal viewpoints. Overnight in Dunedin.
Tour Larnach Castle with Ultimate High Tea and time in the gardens. Travel south through Otago and Southland to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland. Optional glowworm caves or local film experience. Overnight in Te Anau.
Travel to Manapouri and cross Wilmot Pass before boarding the Fiordland Navigator. Enjoy guided nature activities, kayaking, and a buffet dinner while cruising remote Doubtful Sound. Overnight onboard.
Explore more of the fiord before returning to land and travelling to Queenstown. Celebrate Christmas Day with a festive dinner overlooking Lake Wakatipu. Overnight in Queenstown.
Enjoy a free day in Queenstown with optional sightseeing or relaxation. In the evening, cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard the TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak for a gourmet dinner and farm experience. Overnight in Queenstown.
Visit historic Arrowtown and the Lakes District Museum. Continue through the dramatic Haast Pass to the West Coast, passing Fox Glacier before arriving in Franz Josef. Optional scenic flights available. Overnight in Franz Josef.
Visit a greenstone factory in Hokitika before boarding the TranzAlpine train at Arthur’s Pass. Cross the Southern Alps back to Christchurch, where a farewell dinner concludes the journey. Overnight in Christchurch.
After breakfast, transfer to Christchurch Airport for your onward flight, concluding your Ultimate South Island Christmas experience.
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5 days ago
The Aotearoa Highlights Journey was an amazing experience. The route flowed perfectly from Auckland to Christchurch, and every stop felt meaningful. Having everything organised made the drive easy, and the freedom to explore made it even better. Highly recommend!
1 week ago
I loved every moment of this trip. The glowworm caves, Rotorua’s geothermal sights, and the ferry crossing to the South Island were unforgettable. Queenstown and Milford Sound were the absolute highlights. Such a well-crafted itinerary!
3 days ago
This tour gave me the ideal mix of adventure and relaxation. Kaikōura’s coast, Aoraki/Mount Cook, and the stop in Wellington were incredible. The planning was spot-on, and the self-drive setup made everything feel effortless. I’d definitely book again!
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Hey, I’m Roman, your go-to guide at Go New Zealand Tours. If you’re seeking something off the beaten path, I’m here for you. Whether it’s exploring the hidden gems of the North Island or hiking through the Southern Alps, I’ll make sure your trip is truly unique.
Hi, I’m Micheal, your Travel Consultant at Go New Zealand Tours. I’m passionate about crafting journeys that blend excitement and relaxation. Whether you’re after a thrilling adventure in Queenstown or a peaceful retreat in Lake Tekapo, I’ll make it happen.
I’m Shaun, and I’m all about creating the perfect balance between adventure and culture. From discovering the wild beauty of Fiordland to soaking in the rich Māori heritage in Rotorua, I’ll design a journey that speaks to your spirit of exploration.
Hi, I’m Maria! If you love rich history and vibrant culture, I’m your consultant. I’ll curate a trip that takes you from the iconic Hobbiton to the lively streets of Wellington, with plenty of authentic Kiwi experiences along the way.
Hey, I’m Mike. I’ve got a knack for designing laid-back yet exciting trips. If you’re looking to cruise through the Bay of Islands or enjoy a scenic coach tour to Rotorua, I’ll create an easy-going itinerary that’s tailored to your needs.
I’m Brian, your go-to Travel Consultant at Go New Zealand Tours. I’m a big fan of the scenic routes and incredible views New Zealand offers. If you’re looking to experience jaw-dropping landscapes or adventure-packed days, I’m here to make it all come true.
I’m Adam, and I’m here to help you take your New Zealand dreams off the page and into reality. Whether you’re up for hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or soaking up the culture in Auckland, I’ll create a trip that brings your vision to life.
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