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 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.

See the snow capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south 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.

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 some practice will be happening overhead. On the ground check out the static displays which include classic cars and Warhorses (military vehicles), sport aircraft, stationary engines, WOWMart (used aircraft parts for sale), NASA, aviation training organisations and aviation trade stands. Taste wine and food from Central Otago, or use your voucher to visit the Warbirds and Wheels Museum, which showcases the story of Sir Tim Wallis, founder of the Warbirds Over Wanaka International Airshow.

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. 

After breakfast (included) your tour concludes this morning. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.