14-Day South Island Adventure Tour from Christchurch

14-Day South Island Adventure Tour from Christchurch

This 14-day tour of the South Island of New Zealand will take you on a remarkable adventure, taking you further off the beaten track, with a small group of travellers and a knowledgeable guide. You'll have the opportunity to go hiking, skydiving, walk on a glacier, swim with dolphins, cycle some of the country's most scenic trails, go jet boating and more on New Zealand's South Island, one big, beautiful, natural play ground!

Day 1: Depart Christchurch Airport and travel to Hanmer Springs to relax in the thermal hot pools.

Day 2: Start the day with an invigorating walk up Conical Hill before we head to Kaikoura where you can spot marine life.

Day 3: Travel north along rugged coastal roads to the seaside port town of Picton.

Day 4: Sample a wine at a local vineyard before heading to the fabulous Abel Tasman National Park.

Day 5: Today is a free day to explore the Abel Tasman National Park. Walk along the stunning golden sand beaches, hop on a sailboat or go kayaking.

Day 6: Travel the scenic Arthur’s Pass to the West Coast. You visit Hokitika, famous for pounamu (jade), before your day ends in Franz Josef, home to Franz Josef Glacier. 

Day 7: The day is spent in Franz Josef so you can explore the glacier or walking trails. 

Day 8: Visit Lake Matheson, New Zealand’s most photographed lake, before heading to Mount Aspiring National Park where you go jet boating! 

Day 9: Doubtful Sound is a true treasure of New Zealand and today you will board a purpose-built boat for an overnight cruise. Look out for fur seals, penguins and dolphins. 

Day 10: Today head for the "adventure capital of the world", Queenstown. Queenstown is known for its nightlife with excellent restaurants, pubs, nightclubs and live music. 

Day 11 - 12: You have two free days to fully explore. Queenstown is a great place to spend a few days, no matter your past-time of choice. Some optional activities may include AJ Hackett Bungy, Canyon Swing, Skyline Gondola and Luging (own expense). 

Day 13: Back on the bus, head for Wanaka to spend the morning on a scenic bike ride along the lakeside. After lunch, journey north to your next overnight stop at the base of New Zealand's highest mountain, Aoraki/Mt Cook. 

Day 14: Stop for a break on the shores of turqouise Lake Tekapo and you have the option to join a thrilling white water rafting adventure on the Rangitata River in the afternoon. Those not rafting will carry on to Christchurch, meeting the rafters later in the evening. This is where your tour comes to an end. 

Accommodation: Comfortable accommodation situated in great locations, staying in a range of cabins, lodges or local hostels