Breadcrumb
New Zealand tour itinerary name and information
Thrifty Tours

Train, Fiord and Glacier

Spoil yourself with a New Zealand tour to a beautiful fiord, stunning glacier and finish with one of the best scenic rail routes of New Zealand's South Island. This vacation really is fantastic if you want to see some unique highlights in a short time frame. Contact us if you wish to alter this plan - we can design your holiday specifically for your needs!

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

Independent tour (bus & coach)

This suggested tour costs from NZD$3,960 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Christchurch, finishes in Christchurch

6 days/5 nights

Hotel 3 star

 Customisable? YES

 Viewed 1112 times in the last 7 days

price pp from
NZD$3,960
twin share/double
Tour at a glance

Day 1: Christchurch to Dunedin by Intercity coach
Accommodation: Distinction Dunedin Hotel

Day 2: Dunedin to Queenstown by Intercity coach
Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront

Day 3: A full day tour into Milford Sound including a cruise
Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront

Day 4: A full day to explore Queenstown at leisure. Entrance to the Skyline Gondola is included
Accommodation: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront

Day 5: Travel through Lake Wanaka, Hawea and the Wild West Coast to Glacier Country
Accommodation: Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier

Day 6: Today cross the Southern Alps on the world famous Tranz Alpine Scenic Train

Tour full itinerary
Detailed Itinerary
Train, Fiord and Glacier - Day 1
Christchurch to Dunedin by InterCity Coach

Leaving Christchurch early, you will cross the vast Canterbury Plains as you head South, crossing many braided rivers that start their life as glacial melt water high in the Southern Alps. New Zealand's longest bridge at Rakaia crosses such an example. Pass through the towns of Timaru followed by Oamaru, most famous for its buildings constructed with the unique locally quarried white stone. Continue along the coast and into the city of Dunedin.

Dunedin Coach Stop to Accommodation Transfer with Iconic

On arrival into Dunedin you will be met from your coach and transferred to your accommodation.

Your accommodation: Distinction Dunedin Hotel

Distinction Dunedin Hotel occupies the grand Chief Post Office built in the 1930’s. This art deco inspired building has recently been transformed into a 4 star hotel with elegant décor, set in the heart of the city.
Train, Fiord and Glacier - Day 2
Dunedin Accommodation to Coach Stop Transfer with Iconic

You will be collected from your accommodation and transferred to the coach stop in time for your departure.

Dunedin to Queenstown by InterCity Coach

Your coach trip today takes you through the Otago Goldfields of yesteryear. The townships of Lawrence, Roxburgh and Alexandra were once booming gold rush towns, with populations many times more than their current small town image would imply. Alexandra and Roxburgh in more recent times have become well known for the delicious stone fruit that is grown here. The road follows the South Island's longest river, the Clutha River, and at Clyde you will see one of the largest hydro power stations harnessing its energy. The Kawarau River carves a steep and rugged gorge through to Gibbston where some of the finest Pinot Noirs can be sampled. It's also the home of the world's first commercial bungy jumping operation at the historic Kawarau Suspension Bridge and a great viewing platform. Continuing through Lake Hayes you soon arrive into the bustling alpine adventure town of Queenstown.

Taxi Transfer from Intercity Coach Stop to Queenstown Accommodation

Your accommodation: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront

The Copthorne Hotel and Resort, Queenstown Lakefront is conveniently located within walking distance to the centre of Queenstown and just a few minutes stroll from the picturesque Lake Wakatipu.
Meals included: Breakfast
Train, Fiord and Glacier - Day 3
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.

Your accommodation: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront

The Copthorne Hotel and Resort, Queenstown Lakefront is conveniently located within walking distance to the centre of Queenstown and just a few minutes stroll from the picturesque Lake Wakatipu.
Meals included: Breakfast
Train, Fiord and Glacier - Day 4
Explore 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.
Head down the Gibbston Valley wine trail to 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.’ Check out nearby historic Arrowtown and enhance your experience with a four wheel drive trip to Macetown.
Take a leisurely lakeside stroll or ride the gondola for breathtaking views. Drive through Lord Of The Rings country - or for the really fanatic, jump aboard one of many dedicated LOTR tours. If you do really want the adrenaline rush Queenstown is known for, take your pick from the Shotover Jet, Bungy, Canyon Swing, Zipline, Luge or Heli-ski.
Finally, if you're lucky enough to visit in winter (July-September) there are four ski resorts close by. You can head up to Coronet Peak and the Remarkables close to Queenstown, or head to Wanaka for Cardrona and Treble Cone.

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 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.

Your accommodation: Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront

The Copthorne Hotel and Resort, Queenstown Lakefront is conveniently located within walking distance to the centre of Queenstown and just a few minutes stroll from the picturesque Lake Wakatipu.
Meals included: Breakfast
Train, Fiord and Glacier - Day 5
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.

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.
Meals included: Breakfast
Train, Fiord and Glacier - Day 6
Fox Glacier to GreymouthTrain Station via Hokitika Gorge with Hokitika Scenic Tours

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.

Tour departure list
See all departure dates & prices
Departure dates and prices
This tour has 52 departure dates.
All prices are in
Go to dates in
Starts Status   Double (2 people sharing) Single occupancy You save  
Nov 10, 2024
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 11, 2024
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 12, 2024
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 13, 2024
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 14, 2024
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 15, 2024
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 16, 2024
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 17, 2024
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 18, 2024
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 19, 2024
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 20, 2024
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 21, 2024
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 22, 2024
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 23, 2024
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 24, 2024
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 25, 2024
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 26, 2024
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 27, 2024
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 28, 2024
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 29, 2024
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Nov 30, 2024
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Dec 1, 2024
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Dec 2, 2024
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Dec 3, 2024
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Dec 4, 2024
(Wednesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Dec 5, 2024
(Thursday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Dec 6, 2024
(Friday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Dec 7, 2024
(Saturday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Dec 8, 2024
(Sunday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Dec 9, 2024
(Monday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 Enquire Book
Dec 10, 2024
(Tuesday)
Enquire Book NZD$3,960 NZD$6,935 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 quick quote rework

Get an Instant Quote or Book this Tour

Train, Fiord and Glacier

Step 1:
Step 2: Select number of passengers and room configuration

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.

Tour recommendation

Some similar tours to this one

6 days Map
6 day Queenstown, Milford Sound and Glacier Highlights
View Tour
 
6 days Map
6 day Dunedin, Queenstown, Milford Sound and Glaciers
View Tour
 
6 days Map
Southern East Coast
View Tour