Grand Pacific 8 Day Classic Warbirds South Island

This fully escorted 8-day tour gives you access to the outstanding beauty of New Zealand's South Island, the incredible Warbirds over Wanaka and much more. 

Arrive into Christchurch where you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening meet your tour leader and travelling companions for dinner.

This morning board the TranzAlpine, one of the great train journeys of the world. Travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges as you ascend to Arthur’s Pass located in the centre of the Southern Alps. Board your coach and travel to Hokitika, famous for its Greenstone before arriving at Franz Josef where time is  available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers.
*Please be aware, there are some departure dates where the train may not be available due to covid-related schedule changes outside of Grand Pacific's control. If this occurs, your journey through the incredible Arthur's Pass will continue onboard your coach. Chat to a consultant to check the current schedule for your preferred departure.

See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south along the West Coast to Fox Glacier. Continue via the Haast Pass, an area of stunning beauty before arriving into picturesque Queenstown, a year-round resort situated on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu. This evening is free to dine out at one of the many fine restaurants.

Today you have the choice of either a free day in Queenstown or travelling to Wanaka for the opening day of the Warbirds Over Wanaka Airshow.  No flying will occur today, however there may be some practice happening overhead. On the ground check out the static displays which include classic cars and Warhorses (military vehicles), sport aircraft, and aviation trade stands. This is also the opportunity to taste wine and food from the Central Otago region.

Travel to Wanaka over the next two days where Wanaka Airport will become your home as you are entertained by the world's best display pilots flying aircraft overhead. Your ticket will gain you access to the Gold Pass Enclosure. Enjoy the ultimate in airshow luxury as you will be situated on the flight line with grandstand seating and a plush marquee where you can relax in comfort and watch the show from the best seats in the house.

On the final day, all eyes will be in the air as you watch some of the world’s most iconic Warbird aircraft plus modern military machines, aerobatics, sport aircraft and so much more. The aerial action is backed by world-class pyrotechnics when the Airfield is defended by the fighters from an attack by enemy aircraft. The show culminates in a massed Fighter flypast, a sight not to be missed!

Depart Queenstown and travel north through the dramatic Lindis Pass where the landscape is dominated by tussock grassland and snow-capped mountains. Continue through the Mackenzie country into Christchurch. This evening enjoy dinner with new friends. 

Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.