Breadcrumb
New Zealand tour itinerary name and information
Thrifty Tours

Southern Spotlight Tour

Explore the South Island on this popular 9 day itinerary. Highlights include a night in Mt Cook National Park, Dunedin, Te Anau including a Milford Sound cruise, free time in Queenstown, an evening cruise on the TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak station for dinner, the West Coast and Franz Josef Glacier plus the Tranz Alpine Train journey from Greymouth to Christchurch.

Currency selector
Select your currency to view indicative pricing
Tour summary and feature
Quick Itinerary Details

Independent Tours

This suggested tour costs from NZD$6,310 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Christchurch, finishes in Christchurch

9 days/8 nights

Hotel 4 star

 Customisable? YES

 Viewed 704 times in the last 7 days

price pp from
NZD$6,310
twin share/double
Tour at a glance

Day 1: Arrive Christchurch
Accommodation: Sudima Christchurch City

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

Day 3: Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park to Dunedin
Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

Day 4: Dunedin to Te Anau
Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas

Day 5: Te Anau to Milford Sound then onto Queenstown
Accommodation: Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown

Day 6: Queenstown free day to explore, TSS Earnslaw cruise and dinner at Walter Peak Station
Accommodation: Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown

Day 7: Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier
Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

Day 8: Franz Josef to Greymouth train station, Tranz Alpine train to Christchurch
Accommodation: Sudima Christchurch City

Day 9: Depart Christchurch today

Tour full itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Southern Spotlight Tour - Day 1
Private Transfer Christchurch International Airport to Christchurch 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.

Hide

Your accommodation: Sudima Christchurch City

Sudima Christchurch City is a brand new 5-star boutique hotel, ideally located on Victoria Street. Amidst an array of cafes, restaurants and bars, stay only a martini olive pips’ throw from beautiful Hagley Park and Christchurch’s CBD. Experience the garden city in comfort and style.
Southern Spotlight Tour - Day 2
Christchurch to Aoraki-Mt Cook via Lake Tekapo Small Group Tour with Cheeky Kiwi - Lunch Included

Departing from Christchurch, you will make your way through the vast Canterbury Plains. Enjoy a delicious stop at Fairlie Bakehouse before marvelling at the vibrant blue waters of Lake Tekapo and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd. Travel past the stunning Lake Pukaki, framed by Aoraki-Mt Cook and the Southern Alps, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park. Capture unforgettable photos and explore New Zealand’s highest peak without breaking a sweat!

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Glacier Explorers

Experience 500-year-old icebergs up close on the Aoraki-Mt Cook terminal lake. The Glacier Explorers tour is the only one of its kind in New Zealand a...

Read more

Experience 500-year-old icebergs up close on the Aoraki-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

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.
Meals included: Breakfast
Southern Spotlight Tour - Day 3
Mt Cook to Dunedin with Iconic

In the afternoon you will be picked up from your accommodation in Mt Cook Village for the journey through to Dunedin. Along the way you stop for a short break in Omarama, then onto Oamaru for a scenic tour of the historic Whitestone Precinct. You will then enjoy a guided walk along Koekohe Beach at Moeraki Boulders before reaching Dunedin, where you will be dropped off at your accommodation.

Your accommodation: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City

Just two blocks from the Octagon in the heart of the city, Scenic Hotel Dunedin City is close to shops, parks and the best city attractions and services. The hotel provides excellent 4-star accommodation to Dunedin's visitors.
Meals included: Breakfast
Southern Spotlight Tour - Day 4
Dunedin to Te Anau Transfer with Trips & Tramps

The drive to Te Anau takes you through classic Southland farmland scenery. Pass through the tranquil river town of Balclutha, the largest town in South Otago, which hosts a range of shops and services. Balclutha is memorable for its arched concrete bridge, under which flows the mighty Clutha River. The river is open for salmon and trout fishing all year round.
As you head inland, you will pass through the small rural town of Clinton before reaching Gore, the official home of country music. It's also known for great fly fishing, with the Mataura River and many other productive streams close by. Take time to enjoy the lush farmland scenery as you journey east towards your lakeside destination of Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound.

Your accommodation: Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas

The Te Anau Hotel and Villas offers a range of accommodation from hotel rooms and suites to villas. Ideally located on the lake front this hotel is just a few minutes stroll from the shops, cafes and many activities Te Anau has to offer.
Meals included: Breakfast
Southern Spotlight Tour - Day 5
Milford Sound Business Class with Real NZ and Altitude Tours - includes selection of gourmet canapes

Embrace the spirit of Milford Sound in this exclusive tour,  where rich storytelling and intimate encounters with the land and sea create an experience like no other. From the moment you step onto your high-end transfer in Queenstown, your journey becomes part of the adventure, with cultural storytelling, scenic stops, and exceptional service. Spacious reclining seats, curated refreshments, and panoramic windows ensure you travel in style. In Milford Sound, immerse yourself in the iconic beauty with a glass of New Zealand bubbles in hand, aboard the masterfully redesigned MV Sinbad. Relax in an elegant lounge, indulge in a generous selection of canapés, and take in the fresh Fiordland air from the top deck as expert storytelling brings the history, wildlife, and legends of this extraordinary place to life.

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information, see here.

Your accommodation: Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown

At the Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown, you could be forgiven for thinking you were in a postcard. Soak in the amazing view of the towering Remarkables mountain range rising from Lake Wakatipu from the comfort of the hotel. Crafted from centuries-old schist stone and cedar, this sophisticated Queenstown hotel is the perfect base to explore the adventure capital.
Meals included: Breakfast
Southern Spotlight Tour - Day 6
Explore Queenstown

Queenstown, known in Māori as Tāhuna is celebrated as New Zealand's ‘adventure capital'. Though 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. Whether you are looking for a scenic short walk or a longer one, you will find the perfect hike or bike trail in Queenstown. Explore Queenstown Gardens, or try out more challenging trails up to Ben Lomond Walkaway or Queenstown Hill Walking Track. Enjoy iconic views and take Queenstown Gondola up 450 metres to Bob's Peak, or 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 al fresco restaurants, try out the famous Fergburger, or grab a dessert at Patagonia Chocolates.

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 - Queenstown Skyline Gondola Ride

Hop aboard the Skyline Gondola - the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! From which you can take in the awe-inspiring views of this sp...

Read more

Hop aboard the Skyline Gondola - the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! From which you can take in the awe-inspiring views of this spectacular landscape. Sit back and relax as you enjoy panoramic views of The Remarkables, Walter Peak, Cecil Peak, Coronet Peak and the magnificent Lake Wakatipu.

Hide
TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner

Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience, a delicious gourmet BBQ buffet meal, and a farm demonstration in a stunning lakeside setting. Take in the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and its surroundings as you cruise across the lake to the historic Walter Peak high country farm aboard the TSS Earnslaw Steamship. Enjoy the ambiance of the heart of the stately homestead while your Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant chef prepares a gourmet BBQ dinner. Your seasonal menu includes an extensive selection of local New Zealand produce, including succulent meats and a selection of delicious vegetables and salads. Complete your meal with your choice of delicious desserts, or New Zealand cheeses. After dinner, watch the farm dogs in action with a sheep-herding demonstration and say hello to the other farm animals. Finally, cruise home under the southern stars and enjoy the fresh night air as the lights of Queenstown draw ever closer.

Your accommodation: Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown

At the Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown, you could be forgiven for thinking you were in a postcard. Soak in the amazing view of the towering Remarkables mountain range rising from Lake Wakatipu from the comfort of the hotel. Crafted from centuries-old schist stone and cedar, this sophisticated Queenstown hotel is the perfect base to explore the adventure capital.
Meals included: Breakfast, Speciality Dinner
Southern Spotlight Tour - Day 7
Queenstown to Franz Josef with Glacier Shuttles

Leaving Queenstown, travel past picturesque scenery of massive mountain peaks and crystal-clear blue lakes. Journey across the Haast Pass to the other side of the Southern Alps, the landscape changes dramatically. Enter 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 Franz Josef, your next base for exploration. 

Glacier Valley Shuttle

You’ll be transferred up the Franz Josef Valley to the road end, where you’ll have the opportunity to walk to a viewing platform with views of the glacier. Alternatively, you can enjoy one of the other scenic short walks in the area.

Your accommodation: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

Only a breath away from the Franz Josef Glacier, Scenic Hotel is located in the heart of Franz Josef Village. Here you will find all of the amenities you would expect, as well as being close to the shops, restaurants and activities on offer in the beautiful Westland region.
Meals included: Breakfast
Southern Spotlight Tour - Day 8
Franz Josef to Greymouth Train Station with Hokitika Scenic Tours

Head north from Franz Josef through to the historic gold mining region of Hokitika. Known for its Pounamu (New Zealand Greenstone) 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. 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.

Shared Transfer from Christchurch Train Station to Christchurch CBD Accommodation with Christchurch Touring Company

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

Your accommodation: Sudima Christchurch City

Sudima Christchurch City is a brand new 5-star boutique hotel, ideally located on Victoria Street. Amidst an array of cafes, restaurants and bars, stay only a martini olive pips’ throw from beautiful Hagley Park and Christchurch’s CBD. Experience the garden city in comfort and style.
Meals included: Breakfast
Southern Spotlight Tour - Day 9
Private Transfer from Christchurch Accommodation to Christchurch Airport with Christchurch Touring Company

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

Contact form
Send enquiry about this tour
Your contact information
Subscribe to our Regular Newsletter for Inspiring Holiday Ideas
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Tour departure list
See all departure dates & prices
Departure dates and prices
This tour has 193 departure dates.
All prices are in
Go to dates in
Starts Status   Double (2 people sharing) Single occupancy You save  
Jun 22, 2025
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jun 23, 2025
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jun 24, 2025
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jun 25, 2025
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jun 26, 2025
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jun 27, 2025
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jun 28, 2025
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jun 29, 2025
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jun 30, 2025
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 1, 2025
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 2, 2025
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 3, 2025
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 4, 2025
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 5, 2025
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 6, 2025
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 7, 2025
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 8, 2025
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 9, 2025
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 10, 2025
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 11, 2025
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 12, 2025
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 13, 2025
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 14, 2025
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 15, 2025
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 16, 2025
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 17, 2025
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 18, 2025
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 19, 2025
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 20, 2025
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 21, 2025
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
Jul 22, 2025
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$6,310 NZD$10,620 Enquire Book
All prices are in
Go to dates in
Tour recommendation

Some similar tours to this one

9 days Map
Southern Scenic Wonders
View Tour
 
9 days Map
Southern Scenic Wonders
View Tour
 
9 days Map
9 day Coast to Coast
View Tour
 
Tour quick quote rework

Get an Instant Quote or Book this Tour

Southern Spotlight Tour

Step 1:
Step 2: Select number of passengers and room configuration
How many guests are children?
How many guests are children?

Enter phone number to get a call from a travel planning expert within in 24 hours

Enter email address to receive your instant quote

Tick this box if you do not wish to receive emails about special offers
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 on this tour package is:

NZD$0

or
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.
The package cost above excludes rental vehicle hire as you are requesting a price for a vehicle outside of our designated season. Please reach out direct for rental vehicle rates.

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

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