9 day Southern Scenic Wonders
Christchurch to Christchurch
Breadcrumb
New Zealand tour itinerary name and information
Thrifty Tours

9 day Southern Scenic Wonders

This classic 9 day tour introduces you to Mt Cook National Park, Queenstown. Fiordland, Milford Sound and the West Coast Glaciers and includes the Tranz Alpine Scenic Train journey.

Currency selector
All prices are in
Tour summary and feature
Quick Itinerary Details

Independent tour (bus & coach)

This suggested tour costs from NZD$4,160 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Christchurch, finishes in Christchurch

9 days/8 nights

Hotel 3 star

 Customisable? YES

 Viewed 249 times in the last 7 days

Tour Inclusions

- Private transfer Christchurch International Airport to your accommodation
- Private Transfer Christchurch Train Station to your accommodation
- Private transfer accommodation to Christchurch Airport
8 breakfasts, 1 lunch
Tour at a glance

Day 1: Welcome to Christchurch, transfer to accommodation, rest of day at leisure
Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Cotswold

Day 2: Christchurch to Mt Cook National Park
Accommodation: Hermitage Hotel Room Mount Cook View

Day 3: Mt Cook National Park to Queenstown
Accommodation: Heartland Hotel Queenstown

Day 4: Free day to explore Queenstown
Accommodation: Heartland Hotel Queenstown

Day 5: Milford Sound day tour with Real Journeys
Accommodation: Heartland Hotel Queenstown

Day 6: Queenstown to Fox Glacier
Accommodation: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier

Day 7: Explore Fox Glacier and the glacier region
Accommodation: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier

Day 8: Fox Glacier to Greymouth train station, Tranz Alpine train to Christchurch
Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Cotswold

Day 9: Depart Christchurch today

Tour full itinerary

Detailed itinerary: 9 day tour starting in Christchurch

Day 1 - Welcome to Christchurch, transfer to accommodation, rest of day at leisure
9 day Southern Scenic Wonders - Day 1
Private transfer Christchurch International Airport to your accommodation

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

Welcome to Christchurch City

Christchurch New Zealand's garden city is steadily being transformed into a vibrant urban destination. Encompassing a large green belt, it is known for its wide tree lined avenues and lush gardens. A great way to explore the city or easy way to see the sights or ride the historic trams across town to the renowned botanic gardens and the unique cardboard Transitional Cathedral, that's right it is built of cardboard!

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Discover Christchurch Afternoon Tour

A half day sightseeing tour of Christchurch highlighting both the damage to the city inflicted by several large earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 and the r...

Read more

A half day sightseeing tour of Christchurch highlighting both the damage to the city inflicted by several large earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 and the rebuild which is currently in progress, together with the surviving beauty of the city and the historical landmarks. Experience the grand architecture, beautiful gardens and scenic viewpoints on a half-day city tour of Christchurch.
The tour commences in the central city of Christchurch and covers the area which was completely devastated by the Christchurch earthquakes in February 2011. The guide will explain both the history of the city and the effects of the earthquake. On leaving the inner city, the tour travels to Mona Vale a historic homestead and gardens. Then you will travel to the Sign of the Takahe, a historic building with a lookout providing spectacular views over the city, Canterbury Plains and to the Southern Alps. The tour then travels via the Port Hills and Lyttleton Harbour by way of the Sign of the Kiwi and Governors Bay to the Port of Lyttleton. The tour proceeds through the Lyttleton harbour tunnel to the seaside suburb of Sumner and cave rock before returning to the central city where the tour will conclude.

Hide

Your accommodation: Scenic Hotel Cotswold

The Scenic Hotel Cotswold is just a few minutes walk to boutique shopping at Merivale and Hagley Park. The distinctive architecture of the Scenic Hotel Cotswold reflects Christchurch's image as the most English of cities outside of England.
Day 2 - Christchurch to Mt Cook National Park
9 day Southern Scenic Wonders - Day 2
Christchurch to Mt Cook via Lake Tekapo Small Group Tour with Cheeky Kiwi - Includes Lunch

This small group, fully-guided day trip combines all of the key highlights in the area with the famous Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and Tasman Glacier. The ultimate way to get from Christchurch to Aoraki/Mount Cook. Led by famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre Explorer Pass

A tribute to New Zealand's Sir Edmund Hillary humanitarian, ambassador and one of the world's greatest explorers, the centre showcases the Aoraki Moun...

Read more

A tribute to New Zealand's Sir Edmund Hillary humanitarian, ambassador and one of the world's greatest explorers, the centre showcases the Aoraki Mount Cook region and its people within a comprehensive museum as well as a 126-seat custom-designed theatre and Digital Dome Planetarium.

Hide
Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: Hermitage Hotel Room Mount Cook View

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.
Day 3 - Mt Cook National Park to Queenstown
9 day Southern Scenic Wonders - Day 3
SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - 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 ...

Read more

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.

Hide
Aoraki/Mount Cook to Queenstown Small Group Tour

Departing spectacular Aoraki/Mt Cook, this scenic tour winds its way through some of the best the Southern Alps area has to offer; stunningly blue Lake Pukaki, High Country Salmon experiences, the panoramic Lindis Pass, the grand Kawarau Gorge before finally coming to an end in breathtaking Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world.

Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: Heartland Hotel Queenstown

The Heartland Hotel Queenstown is the ideal place to stay if you want to be close to all the action of Queenstown's main centre, yet be elevated enough to take advantage of the spectacular views over Lake Wakatipu to the mountains.
Day 4 - Free day to explore Queenstown
9 day Southern Scenic Wonders - Day 4
Free day in Queenstown

Although celebrated as New Zealand's ‘adventure capital’ Queenstown offers far more than a fast paced action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic, and scenic wonders.
Close to the Gibbston wine trail, where you can sample some of the region’s best Pinot or catch a ride on the 100 year old Steamship - the TSS Earnslaw -  to Walter Peak Station for dinner and a farm tour.
Browse the waterfront cafes and have lunch at Michelin star chef Josh Emett's ‘Rata' or simply take a leisurely lakeside stroll or ride the gondola for breathtaking views.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Shotover Jet Canyon Jet Boat Ride

Shotover Jet is the only company permitted to operate in the Shotover River Canyons. It's a thrilling ride! Skim past rocky outcrops at close range in...

Read more

Shotover Jet is the only company permitted to operate in the Shotover River Canyons. It's a thrilling ride! Skim past rocky outcrops at close range in your Shotover Jet 'Big Red', as you twist and turn through the narrow canyons at breathtaking speeds. And a major highlight - hold tight for the world-famous Shotover Jet full 360-degree spins!

Hide
SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Skyline Gondola Queenstown and Buffet Dinner

With breathtaking views across Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu, the Skyline Complex is a must-do. Catch the fully enclosed gondola to the summit for a re...

Read more

With breathtaking views across Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu, the Skyline Complex is a must-do. Catch the fully enclosed gondola to the summit for a remarkable panorama of the city surrounds. Wander the outdoor viewing decks then enjoy a gourmet buffet meal in the Stratosphere Restaurant.

Hide
Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: Heartland Hotel Queenstown

The Heartland Hotel Queenstown is the ideal place to stay if you want to be close to all the action of Queenstown's main centre, yet be elevated enough to take advantage of the spectacular views over Lake Wakatipu to the mountains.
Day 5 - Milford Sound day tour with Real Journeys
9 day Southern Scenic Wonders - Day 5
Milford Sound Cruise and coach tour from Queenstown

Return luxury coach transport from Queenstown to Milford Sound, with a 1 hour 40 minute Cruise along the full length of the fiord. On boarding a Real Journeys luxury glass-roofed coach in Queenstown or Te Anau, you will enjoy a relaxing trip along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Te Anau. The coach driver provides an informative commentary. After a morning tea break in Te Anau, where you have the option of purchasing refreshments, the coach continues along the spectacular Milford Road. There is time for photo stops and short walks along the way. On reaching Milford Sound, you board the modern, spacious vessel for a leisurely cruise in the fiord. The cruise provides excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time is available to enjoy waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and the wildlife. During the cruise your friendly crew provide commentaries in several languages and point out the sights such as Mitre Peak and the Pembroke Glacier.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Your accommodation: Heartland Hotel Queenstown

The Heartland Hotel Queenstown is the ideal place to stay if you want to be close to all the action of Queenstown's main centre, yet be elevated enough to take advantage of the spectacular views over Lake Wakatipu to the mountains.
Day 6 - Queenstown to Fox Glacier
9 day Southern Scenic Wonders - Day 6
Queenstown to Fox Glacier with Glacier Shuttles

Leaving Queenstown, travel past picturesque scenery of massive mountain peaks and crystal-clear blue lakes. Travel across the Haast Pass to the other side of the Southern Alps, the landscape changes dramatically. Welcome to the wild and wonderful West Coast, a remote and unspoiled region. Wind your way past native rainforest, rocky coastlines and powerful waterfalls. Your journey concludes in the village of Fox Glacier, your base for exploration of the area.

Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier

The Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier is nestled at the base of the majestic Southern Alps, in the Westland World Heritage Park. Originally built in 1928 it has been refurbished to retain its charming atmosphere.
Day 7 - Explore Fox Glacier and the glacier region
9 day Southern Scenic Wonders - Day 7
Fox Glacier

The mighty Fox is the largest and longest of the magnificent West Coast glaciers. Remarkably, it ends in temperate rainforest, 250 metres above sea level only twelve kilometres from the sea.
There are more peaks at the head of the Fox Glacier than in any other valley in New Zealand.
The Fox Glacier, like all glaciers, advances and retreats. Evidence of the latest surge forward can be seen in the bulging lower ice fall. Alpine Guides has access onto the lower part of the glacier via a secret track that climbs through regenerating native forest. From the track, you will have stunning views into the upper parts of the glacier. Fox Glacier township is the more "laid back" of the twin Glacier Country townships of Fox and Franz Josef, and people often comment on having chosen Fox for its relaxed atmosphere.
An excellent selection of cafés and a wide range of accommodations are available. The township enjoys breathtaking views of New Zealand's highest peaks, Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. Lake Matheson, the famous reflection lake, is a five-minute drive west of Fox Township and historic Gillespie's Beach, known for its crashing surf and distant snow-capped mountains, is only 25 minutes west by car.

 

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Flying Fox - Fox Glacier Helihike with Fox Glacier Guiding

The fly-in, fly-out Helihike combines the excitement of walking on the Fox Glacier with the thrill of helicopter flights. By flying in you are able to...

Read more

The fly-in, fly-out Helihike combines the excitement of walking on the Fox Glacier with the thrill of helicopter flights. By flying in you are able to access and explore a part of the glacier that is otherwise very difficult to get to. It is here, shunted between two ice falls, that the awesome glacier forces work hardest and often create spectacular ice caves and arches. Equipped with sturdy leather boots, you board the helicopter for your first flight over the awe-inspiring pillars of the lower icefall. Here, the steep ice is in constant motion. You then circle the marvellous upper icefall and the Victoria Falls before landing. Your remote landing site on the ice is an exceptionally beautiful part of the glacier. At this stage, you are outfitted with instep crampons, specially designed by Alpine Guides for these ice conditions and you follow the ice steps cut by the guides as you explore the beautiful formations and ice caves which are seen only here. This trip offers wonderful photographic opportunities. Each departure is a true voyage of exploration; there are so many changing features that the guides always find something new. Ice time, weather permitting, is about 2.5 hours.

Please note that ice features change all the time and no guarantee of specific features can be made.

Hide
Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier

The Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier is nestled at the base of the majestic Southern Alps, in the Westland World Heritage Park. Originally built in 1928 it has been refurbished to retain its charming atmosphere.
Day 8 - Fox Glacier to Greymouth train station, Tranz Alpine train to Christchurch
9 day Southern Scenic Wonders - Day 8
Fox Glacier to Greymouth Train Station

Today you’ll head north through the historic gold mining region of Hokitika. Known for its Greenstone (Pounamu) this seaside town has a rich history dating back to the 1860’s. 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.

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.

Meals included: Breakfast

Your accommodation: Scenic Hotel Cotswold

The Scenic Hotel Cotswold is just a few minutes walk to boutique shopping at Merivale and Hagley Park. The distinctive architecture of the Scenic Hotel Cotswold reflects Christchurch's image as the most English of cities outside of England.
Day 9 - Depart Christchurch today
9 day Southern Scenic Wonders - Day 9
Private transfer accommodation to Christchurch Airport

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to Christchurch Airport in time for your departing flight.

Meals included: Breakfast
Tour quick quote
Instant quote or Book this tour

9 day Southern Scenic Wonders

Step 1: Choose a preferred start date here
Step 2: Select number of guests and room configuration
Select the number of adults per room type
Double room (based on 2 adults in 1 room, 1 bed)
Twin room (based on 2 adults sharing 1 room with 2 beds)
Single occupancy (based on 1 adult in one room)
Select the number of children per room type
Child (5-14yrs inclusive) Child cost when sharing with at least one adult
Child (0-4yrs inclusive) Child cost when sharing with at least one adult
No pricing loaded - please choose another date or contact us
Your quote for this tour:
Start date:
End date:
Guests:
Rooms:
Total cost for ALL guests is:
NZD$0
This quote is based on vehicles to accommodate your party in the vehicle type. We suggest changing the car type or contacting us for the best options.
Save and send a copy of this quote to
or

NOTE: Instant 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 are  subject to change. Refer to our terms and conditions.

Remember - we can create this itinerary with any style of accommodation or customise to suit your interests and timeframe. Just contact us here.

Tour departure list
See all departure dates & prices
Departure dates and prices
This tour has 450 departure dates.
All prices are in
Go to dates in
Starts Status Double (2 people sharing) Single occupancy You save  
Oct 9, 2023
(Monday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 10, 2023
(Tuesday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 11, 2023
(Wednesday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 12, 2023
(Thursday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 13, 2023
(Friday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 14, 2023
(Saturday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 15, 2023
(Sunday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 16, 2023
(Monday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 17, 2023
(Tuesday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 18, 2023
(Wednesday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 19, 2023
(Thursday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 20, 2023
(Friday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 21, 2023
(Saturday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 22, 2023
(Sunday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 23, 2023
(Monday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 24, 2023
(Tuesday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 25, 2023
(Wednesday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 26, 2023
(Thursday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 27, 2023
(Friday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 28, 2023
(Saturday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 29, 2023
(Sunday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 30, 2023
(Monday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Oct 31, 2023
(Tuesday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Nov 1, 2023
(Wednesday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Nov 2, 2023
(Thursday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Nov 3, 2023
(Friday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Nov 4, 2023
(Saturday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Nov 5, 2023
(Sunday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Nov 6, 2023
(Monday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Nov 7, 2023
(Tuesday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
Nov 8, 2023
(Wednesday)
NZD$4,160 NZD$7,135 Enquire Book
All prices are in
Go to dates in
Contact form
Send enquiry about this tour
Your contact information
Subscribe to our Regular Newsletter for Inspiring Holiday Ideas
Tour recommendation

Some similar tours to this one

9 days Map
9 day Southern Scenic Wonders
View Tour
 
9 days Map
9 Day Southern Spotlight
View Tour
 
9 days Map
9 day Coast to Coast
View Tour