Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspirational Alps Tour
Christchurch to Queenstown
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New Zealand tour itinerary name and information
Great Journeys of New Zealand

Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspirational Alps Tour

Experience an unforgettable train and coach journey through New Zealand. Travel off the beaten track in comfort and style as you are guided on a scenic adventure of a lifetime. Explore the Southern Alps onboard the world-famous TranzAlpine scenic train, discover the home of pounamu and ancient forests on the Wild West Coast, dine along marvellous scenery in world-class locations, and explore New Zealand’s city life in Christchurch and Queenstown.

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Quick Itinerary Details

Guided Coach & Train Tours

This suggested tour costs from NZD$4,959 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Christchurch, finishes in Queenstown

7 days/6 nights

Hotel 4 star

 Pre and post tour options? YES

 Viewed 206 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

Punakaiki Rocks
TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Greymouth
View of the glacier from the parking lot
Travelling through the Southern Lakes
Haast, Mrs Jones Fruit Stall and Arrowtown Visit
Milford Sound Daytrip and Cruise
TSS Earnslaw cruise and dinner at Walter Peak high country farm, Queenstown
6 breakfasts, 3 dinners
Tour at a glance

Day 1: Welcome to Christchurch
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 2: Board the TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Hokitika
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 3: Hokitika to Franz Josef on the Wild West Coast
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 4: Franz Josef to Queenstown, the 'Adventure Capital'
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 5: A day trip to Milford Sound
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 6: Explore everything Queenstown has to offer
Accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Day 7: Depart Queenstown

Tour full itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspirational Alps Tour - Day 1
Welcome to Christchurch

Welcome to Christchurch – New Zealand’s Garden City! The largest city in the South Island, Christchurch is known for its historical earthquake in 2011 and how it rebuilt itself into a charming, multicultural city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican ‘gothic revival’ architectural influence.
After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Christchurch has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to wander through the enticing stalls at Riverside Market or explore the botanical gardens before heading to the art gallery, museums and other city attractions.
After an exciting day on the town, your journey will officially begin as you join your fellow travellers and Tour Director at this evening’s welcome reception.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Dinner
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspirational Alps Tour - Day 2
The TranzAlpine Scenic Train

The moment has come to experience the world-famous TranzAlpine journey through the Southern Alps to the West Coast! On this fantastic escape, you will see epic vistas, soar on the edges of the ice-fed Waimakariri River, traverse the Southern Alps, and experience miles of native beech forest. The natural scenery isn’t the only marvel though. The TranzAlpine will also pass through the Otira Tunnel, a true engineering marvel of almost 100 years!
Once you arrive on the West Coast, you will travel even further off the beaten track by coach to Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. Here you will walk amongst limestone formations before finishing your day in the coastal town of Hokitika.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspirational Alps Tour - Day 3
Explore the West Coast

This morning you start your West Coast adventure by visiting one of the South Island’s most popular activities– The Treetop Aerial Walkway. This elevated adventure will get you acquainted with the locals – the ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees of course.
After your sky-high experience, continue south into Glacier Country. Franz Josef Glacier is quite special in that it survives in coastal rainforest temperatures. With a short walk to a viewpoint, you'll get a fantastic view of the vast valley, as well as a sneak peek of Franz Josef Glacier itself. If you would prefer to get up close, we recommend booking an optional helicopter flight. This will ensure you are getting the best possible view of this natural wonder.
After indulging in the local activities and retail therapy in Franz Josef’s souvenir shops, join your group for an impeccable highlight meal at Te Waonui Forest Retreat.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspirational Alps Tour - Day 4
Explore the Southern Lakes

Today you will be exploring the mountainous Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey to Queenstown will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. Marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and stunning glaciers as your Tour Director guides you between local hidden gems.
Emerging on the other side of the pass, explore a local fruit hotspot before exploring the cobblestone streets of the historic goldmining settlement of Arrowtown. After an exciting plunge into the history of this gold rush village, you will arrive in the world-famous resort town of Queenstown!

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspirational Alps Tour - Day 5
Explore Milford Sound - The 8th Wonder of the World

Make sure you charge your camera before you set off on today’s adventure. Today you’re heading to Milford Sounds/ Piopiotahi to be engulfed in towering peaks and to waltz through plunging valleys.
After travelling through native rainforests, meadows, and knobs (yes knobs!), you will join your cruise in Milford Sounds. Jump aboard and meander down the sound where you will experience the rumble of Bowen and Stirling Falls as they plummet from glacial hanging valleys sharply into the sea. Marvel at the sheer pinnacle of Mitre Peak, rising from the deep waters of the fiord. Or, if you’d like to soar like the Piopio (ancient bird), why not elevate your day by flying into the Sounds by plane or helicopter?
After this adventure, you will be heading back to Queenstown for the evening. Sip cocktails and indulge in Queenstown’s exciting nightlife along the sparkling Lake Wakatipu.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspirational Alps Tour - Day 6
Explore Queenstown

Queenstown truly has something for everyone. Personalise your day to be as active or relaxed as you’d like. Whether it’s sipping wine in Gibbston Valley or bungy jumping with AJ Hackett, there is no shortage of activities to delight your senses.
Enjoy a ‘final hurrah’ this evening as we board the TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise, dinner, and show. Reflect on your great adventure with your fellow travellers as you cruise to your dining experience at Walter peak overlooking the beautiful Table Bay. Sit back and watch a true Kiwi experience as you learn about sheep shearing and dog herding in this beautiful setting. This evening will truly encapsulate your great journey as a truly New Zealand highlight.

Your accommodation: 4-4.5 Star Hotel

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Great Journeys of New Zealand - Signature Inspirational Alps Tour - Day 7
Depart Queenstown

Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travellers. You will be transferred to Queenstown Airport for your departing flight.

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NOTE: Quotes are subject to availability of specific accommodation and other inclusions. Our NZ touring experts will be in touch with you regarding this. Costs quoted in currencies other than New Zealand dollars (NZ$) are based on todays exchange rate and is subject to change.Terms and Conditions apply

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This tour has 18 departure dates.
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Starts Status Double (2 people sharing) Single occupancy You save  
Apr 6, 2024
(Saturday)
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NZD$5,799 NZD$7,699 Enquire Book
Apr 27, 2024
(Saturday)
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Jun 27, 2024
(Thursday)
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Sep 21, 2024
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Oct 12, 2024
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Nov 9, 2024
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Nov 23, 2024
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Dec 14, 2024
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Feb 1, 2025
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NZD$4,959 NZD$6,668 Enquire Book
Feb 6, 2025
(Thursday)
NZD$4,959 NZD$6,668 Enquire Book
Mar 1, 2025
(Saturday)
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NZD$4,959 NZD$6,668
Mar 22, 2025
(Saturday)
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limited space left
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Apr 19, 2025
(Saturday)
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Apr 26, 2025
(Saturday)
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