Southern Wines and Southern Scenes 10 Day Tour
Queenstown to Queenstown
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New Zealand tour itinerary name and information

Southern Wines and Southern Scenes 10 Day Tour

Discover two of the most exciting wine regions in New Zealand, The Waipara Valley and Central Otago.  Along the way you'll also explore the magnificent alpine scenery of Mt Cook National Park, get up close to the West Coast's remarkable glaciers and spend time relaxing in charming boutique accommodation in the beautiful Southern Lakes district.

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Tour summary and feature
Quick Itinerary Details

South Island Self Drive

This suggested tour costs from NZD$5,315 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Queenstown, finishes in Queenstown

10 days/9 nights

Boutique Lodges & Hotels

 Rental car included

 Viewed 18 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

- Private Transfer Queenstown Airport to your Accommodation
- Private Transfer Christchurch Train Station to your accommodation
Meals included: 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches
Tour at a glance

Day 1: Welcome to Queenstown, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to The Dairy Boutique Hotel
Accommodation: The Dairy Private Hotel by Naumi

Day 2: Explore the vineyards of Central Otago and the Gibbston Valley, famed for their Pinot Noir
Accommodation: The Dairy Private Hotel by Naumi

Day 3: Your rental car is delivered then take the short trip over the Crown Range to Wanaka
Accommodation: Tin Tub Luxury Lodge
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 60 kms / 38 miles : 0.9 hours

Day 4: Journey through the spectacular Haast Pass to the West Coast wilderness
Accommodation: Westwood Lodge
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 282 kms / 175 miles : 3.4 hours

Day 5: Take to the air for amazing views, then land on the glacier for an adventure on the ice
Accommodation: Westwood Lodge

Day 6: Drive north along the stunning West Coast Road and take the TranzAlpine train to Christchurch
Accommodation: The George Hotel
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 170 kms / 106 miles : 2.1 hours

Day 7: Just north of Christchurch is the Waipara Valley, enjoy an afternoon guided tour including lunch
Accommodation: The George Hotel

Day 8: Travel south to the immense Southern Alps and Mt Cook National Park for your Glacier Explorers tour
Accommodation: Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki Wing Premium
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 350 kms / 217 miles : 4.1 hours

Day 9: Follow the dry lands to Lindis Pass which leads into Central Otago, then through the Kawerau Gorge to Queenstown
Accommodation: The Dairy Private Hotel by Naumi
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 257 kms / 159 miles : 3.0 hours

Day 10: Depart Queenstown today

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 8 kms / 5 miles : 0.2 hours

Tour full itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Southern Wines and Southern Scenes 10 Day Tour - Day 1
Private Transfer Queenstown Airport to your Accommodation

On arrival you will be met by a private driver and delivered to your Queenstown accommodation.

Welcome to Queenstown

Renowned for its adrenaline inducing activities Queenstown is synonymous with adventure. Parked on the shores of Lake Wakatipu this small alpine town is nestled below soaring vistas of The Remarkables Mountain Range. While arguably the brightest gem in New Zealand’s crown, Queenstown offers far more than an action-packed getaway. Spend time on the Gibbston wine trail and end with a meal at Michelin star chef Josh Emett’s restaurant, Rata. Take a trip down memory lane on a 100 year old steamship the TSS Earnslaw. Soak in the scenery on your walk around the lake, or venture further afield into Fiordland National Park. Head over the hill to resort town Wanaka, or re-live scenes from Lord Of The Rings by four wheel drive. But - if you really do want that rush - head out on the Shotover Jet, dive off the Nevis Bungy, freefall on the Canyon swing or Zip line the Gondola. Just be sure it's done on an empty stomach  – don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Your accommodation: The Dairy Private Hotel by Naumi

The Dairy Private Hotel – a unique blend of exquisite design, rich history and warm hospitality in the city centre. Beginning as Queenstown’s original ‘dairy’ (corner store) in 1920, it has now transformed into an interiors masterpiece after an exquisite refurbishment that features wallpapers from British luxury interiors brand House of Hackney.
Southern Wines and Southern Scenes 10 Day Tour - Day 2
Appellation Gourmet Food & Wine Tour

An indulgent and diverse full day tour showcasing the very best sights and tastes from the Central Otago region. Let an experienced wine guide lead you on a tasting journey through the three contrasting Central Otago wine sub-regions of Gibbston, Bannockburn and Cromwell.
Visit 4 premium vineyards, extensively sampling the region’s renowned cool-climate wines and retrace history by discovering the historic settlements of Old Cromwell and beautiful Arrowtown.
Enjoy a guided tour through New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave and savour a unique lunch of 5 dishes cooked in retired oak barrels and perfectly matched with 5 wines.

Your accommodation: The Dairy Private Hotel by Naumi

The Dairy Private Hotel – a unique blend of exquisite design, rich history and warm hospitality in the city centre. Beginning as Queenstown’s original ‘dairy’ (corner store) in 1920, it has now transformed into an interiors masterpiece after an exquisite refurbishment that features wallpapers from British luxury interiors brand House of Hackney.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Southern Wines and Southern Scenes 10 Day Tour - Day 3
Collect your rental car

This tour can be priced with any of the rental cars available in our fantastic range, from economy hatchbacks to prestige saloons and SUVs.

Queenstown to Wanaka

Leaving Queenstown you'll drive over New Zealand's highest sealed road, the Crown Range before arriving into the resort town of Wanaka.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Wanaka Wine Tours Boutique Central Otago Wine Trail

This small group wine tour (maximum 8) offers a relaxed and personal introduction to the wines and scenery of the Central Otago region. This tour is a...

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This small group wine tour (maximum 8) offers a relaxed and personal introduction to the wines and scenery of the Central Otago region. This tour is a great way to explore award-winning vineyards hidden amongst the rugged landscape of Central Otago. Visit and enjoy tastings at 4 Central Otago vineyards including a delicious mid-afternoon platter to enjoy with your tastings.  You'll also discover the history of the region with a visit to Old Cromwell Town, a charming heritage precinct that has been revitalised into a boutique arts and crafts village.

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SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Paddle Wanaka Tiki Tour

This is a fantastic introduction to kayaking, with an easy guided paddle exploring the beautiful Lake Wanaka coastline and enjoying the outstandi...

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This is a fantastic introduction to kayaking, with an easy guided paddle exploring the beautiful Lake Wanaka coastline and enjoying the outstanding scenery. You will be whisked away to a remote section of the beautiful Lake Wanaka where you will be fitted out with safety gear and given a kayaking skills lesson before you get out onto the water. No matter how fast you go, after about an hour your guide will find you an epic spot to take a rest and have some light refreshments.

Looping back to your start point (after exploring a few more hidden sweet-spots and taking a few more photos), you’ll leave the kayaks behind and cruise or drive back into town.

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Your accommodation: Tin Tub Luxury Lodge

Experience the Tin Tub Luxury Lodge in Wanaka, an alpine hideaway you won’t want to leave. Enjoy the magnificent views while you relax in the heated swimming pool or from your personal balcony.
Meals included: Breakfast

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 60 kms / 38 miles : 0.9 hours

Southern Wines and Southern Scenes 10 Day Tour - Day 4
Wanaka to Franz Josef Glacier

The route follows the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea before you enter the village of Makarora, the gateway to Mt. Aspiring National Park.  The Blue Pools, just outside Makarora, are a wonderful 30-minute walk through pristine native beech forest. Descending into Mt. Aspiring National Park and towards the Haast Pass, crashing rivers and waterfalls are around every corner. Crossing the Haast River you are now truly on the wild West Coast, a 600-kilometre stretch of bush, rainforest, and podocarp forest.
Paringa Salmon Farm is a great halfway stop to stretch your legs, feed the fish, and stop for lunch or refreshment.
First Fox Glacier welcomes you to the glacier region and Franz Josef township is just a further 45 minutes' drive over the impressive Fox Hills.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Blue Pools Nature Experience with Southern Alps Air

Begin with a 30 minute scenic flight encompassing views of glaciers, Mt Aspiring, remote waterfalls, river valleys and mountain ranges that few people...

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Begin with a 30 minute scenic flight encompassing views of glaciers, Mt Aspiring, remote waterfalls, river valleys and mountain ranges that few people get to experience.  With a window seat for every passenger the views are spectacular. From your landing point at Makarora, you are driven a short distance to the beginning of your 2 hour wilderness walk. The walk is on a well formed track through native beech forest which leads you to cross the first of 4 swing bridges and the clear and pure waters of the 'Blue Pools' - pristine, beautiful pools in the Blue River to linger at and enjoy while spotting fish. From here the track winds through native forest amongst the mountains of the Southern Alps near the banks of the Makarora River. Interesting and picturesque this is a very ancient setting only recently made easily accessible.  The natural surroundings and tranquility are most noticeable during your relaxing walk in this special part of the Mt Aspiring World Heritage National Park. The track leads you to the meeting point at the mouth of the Young River where the jet boat will be waiting to whisk you off on a 1 hour scenic and spectacular journey through the Makarora Valley on the glacially fed waters of the pristine Makarora River. Feel the wind in your hair during your jet boat safari and be intrigued by the changing landscape as you journey to the mouth of the Makarora River and the head waters of Lake Wanaka before returning to Makarora Village.

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Your accommodation: Westwood Lodge

Westwood is a purpose built lodge, crafted entirely from wood and exquisitely decorated throughout. The lounge is the place to meet to watch the Southern Alps turn a soft pink in the setting sun.
Meals included: Breakfast

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 282 kms / 175 miles : 3.4 hours

Southern Wines and Southern Scenes 10 Day Tour - Day 5
Franz Josef Glacier Helihike with The Helicopter Line

Take a scenic flight over all three Franz Josef glacier icefalls. Landing high on the glacier take a two hour guided trip through some of the most beautiful terrain in the country. Your guide will choose the route as you go through a wonderland of blue ice and frozen pinnacles. You'll have endless views of the surrounding mountains and rainforest as well as plenty of opportunities to take photographs. Sure to be one of the most memorable experiences you have while you are in New Zealand. Should weather not be suitable to take this flight you are able to transfer your booking onto a similar tour on any of the Helicopter Line operations in Queenstown or Mt Cook.

Your accommodation: Westwood Lodge

Westwood is a purpose built lodge, crafted entirely from wood and exquisitely decorated throughout. The lounge is the place to meet to watch the Southern Alps turn a soft pink in the setting sun.
Meals included: Breakfast
Southern Wines and Southern Scenes 10 Day Tour - Day 6
Franz Josef to Greymouth Train Station

Today head north along the mighty West Coast highway you pass through ancient temperate rainforests while getting sneak peeks of the wild coast beach occasionally. Whataroa is the next town where you can see one of the world's rarest birds, the New Zealand white heron or Kotuku nest at the Waitangi Roto Nature Reserve, and guided tours from October to March will take you there. 
Ross is the site of an old gold mining town and some of the old buildings and workings remain. In fact, Ross is still home to one of the few working gold mines left in New Zealand and the local information center offers you the chance to pan for gold.
Hokitika is a great place to explore craft and gift stores and head to the coast and take in the endless sea views. The Jade or Greenstone on offer in Hokitika is probably some of the best you will see in the country. The Hokitika Gorge is located 45 minutes inland and offers turquoise waters flowing through a narrow gorge. A great short walk will deliver you to this piece of paradise.
Continue on to Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast and the starting point for the next leg of your journey the TranzAlpine Scenic Train. Drop your rental car at the Greymouth Train Station depot located at the train station building before boarding your train to Christchurch.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch

Considered one of the world's great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch. You'll travel across the South Island from the west to the east coast through Arthur's Pass National Park. From the comfort of your carriage see lush beech forest, deep river valleys and the spectacular peaks of the Southern Alps. Descend to the windswept Canterbury Plains before arriving in the city of Christchurch.

Private Transfer Christchurch Train Station to your accommodation

On arrival at the Christchurch train station, you will be met by a private driver and transferred to your accommodation.

Your accommodation: The George Hotel

The George is the essence of supreme comfort. The award-winning 5 star hotel is opposite Hagley Park and just a few minutes stroll from the Botanic Gardens. It also has an award-winning restaurant, 50 Bistro onsite.
Meals included: Breakfast

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 170 kms / 106 miles : 2.1 hours

Southern Wines and Southern Scenes 10 Day Tour - Day 7
Collect your rental car

This tour can be priced with any of the rental cars available in our fantastic range, from economy hatchbacks to prestige saloons and SUVs.

Explore Christchurch City

Following the 2011 earthquake that razed its centre and much of the outlying suburbs, Christchurch is well into a billion-dollar makeover. In the middle of the Canterbury Plains, bordering the pacific ocean, New Zealand’s newest city is an ideal gateway to exploring the middle of the South.
Go punting on the Avon River, take a historic tram ride, catch the gondola to the rim of an extinct volcano or do all three! See the world's only Cardboard Cathedral and for nature enthusiasts - wander the renowned Christchurch Botanic Gardens, or head to Oxford Terrace in the city to find a great spot to eat or drink.
Drive an hour in any direction to ski, mountain bike, wine taste, whale-watch, bungy jump or play golf. Take the winding Port Hills road to the French settlement of Akaroa and tour the vines in Waipara for an authentic New Zealand wine-tasting experience.  

Waipara Valley Wine Trail and lunch with Leisure Tours

This tour explores 4 of North Canterbury’s boutique vineyards. Travel 45 minutes north of Christchurch through the New Zealand countryside to the Waipara Valley, well known for its warm, dry climate and rich alluvial soils, ideal for superior wine production. Over 40 vineyards and wineries pepper the landscape of the valley, with Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc dominating local plantings. You will stop for tastings at Pegasus Bay, Waipara Springs, Greystone Winery and Waipara Hills Winery. If for any reason one of these wineries is closed on the day or your tour an alternative winery in the Waipara Valley will be included. This activity also includes lunch at Waipara Springs Winery. The platter lunch includes tastes of both a regional and New Zealand flavour and is the perfect accompaniment to some of these wineries fine wines.

Your accommodation: The George Hotel

The George is the essence of supreme comfort. The award-winning 5 star hotel is opposite Hagley Park and just a few minutes stroll from the Botanic Gardens. It also has an award-winning restaurant, 50 Bistro onsite.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Southern Wines and Southern Scenes 10 Day Tour - Day 8
Christchurch to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

Today you'll drive through the heart of the South Island, crossing the vast Canterbury plains. Catch your breath in Geraldine before continuing through Fairlie. Ascending Burkes pass you'll come to the picturesque lakeside town of Tekapo.
Follow the road and take in the view of Aoraki Mt Cook (New Zealand's tallest mountain) from the shores of Lake Pukaki, known for its glacier fed turquoise blue colour. Continue along the lake to your final destination Mt Cook Village.
Please note: There are no food shops at Mt Cook, and dinner options are limited to one restaurant. If you wish to self-cater, you must stock up before arriving in Mt Cook, or make dinner reservations in advance.

Glacier Explorers Mt. Cook

Experience 500 year old icebergs up-close on the Mt Cook terminal lake. The Glacier Explorers tour is the only one of its kind in New Zealand and one of only three in the world! Very few glaciers terminate into lakes and even fewer of them are accessible. See towering ice cliffs and floating icebergs from the safety of a specially designed boat. These boats provide a safe way to view unseen and inaccessible areas of New Zealand's largest glacier The Tasman.

Your accommodation: Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki Wing Premium

The Hermitage Hotel ringed by magnificent snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, is a world-renowned tourist destination and has been an icon of superior accommodation and dining since 1884.
Meals included: Breakfast

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 350 kms / 217 miles : 4.1 hours

Southern Wines and Southern Scenes 10 Day Tour - Day 9
Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to Queenstown

Leaving the alpine region of Aoraki Mt Cook, you'll travel through the lakeside town of Twizel, then a little further to Omarama the gliding capital of New Zealand. Continue on over the Lindis Pass, one of New Zealand's highest roads with a summit of 971 metres. Arrive in the quaint village of Tarras, then continue on a short way to the historic Bendigo Reserve, one of Otago's original gold mining settlements.
Follow the road to Cromwell, and keep going through the sheer cliffs of the Kawarau Gorge towards Gibbston, one of New Zealand's premier wine growing regions. See the historic Kawarau Bridge where you can bungy jump or relax and watch others take the plunge. Approaching Queenstown, the Remarkables mountain range comes into view as you arrive into the adventure capital of New Zealand.

Your accommodation: The Dairy Private Hotel by Naumi

The Dairy Private Hotel – a unique blend of exquisite design, rich history and warm hospitality in the city centre. Beginning as Queenstown’s original ‘dairy’ (corner store) in 1920, it has now transformed into an interiors masterpiece after an exquisite refurbishment that features wallpapers from British luxury interiors brand House of Hackney.
Meals included: Breakfast

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 257 kms / 159 miles : 3.0 hours

Southern Wines and Southern Scenes 10 Day Tour - Day 10
Return your vehicle to Queenstown Airport

Explore more of Queenstown before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 8 kms / 5 miles : 0.2 hours

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Southern Wines and Southern Scenes 10 Day Tour

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