Southern Alps - Overland Trip

Accommodation

We use different forms of accommodation on our tour: Hotels, farm stays, lodges and camping. 3 person dome tents and sleeping mattresses are provided. There will be some opportunities to upgrade to \'chalet\' accommodation at some camp grounds if you wish. These are booked and paid for en-route. All accommodation is based on twin share unless circumstances dictate we change room configurations.

Kitty Notes

In addition to the tour price there is a Local Tour Payment, which is paid to your Crew at the beginning of each tour - in NZ$ cash only. This is part of your overall tour cost and is used to cover three meals a day (whilst camping) and accommodation as per itinerary while on tour. Please refer to our website for a full list of optional excursions.

Itineraries (Wellington - Queenstown)

Southern Alps - 9 Days
South Islands
Tour Cost: GBP£465 + NZD$270 LTP

WHAT\'S INCLUDED
Accommodation: Hotels – Camping - Farm stays – lodges
Camping equipment: 3 person dome tents + sleeping mattresses
Meals: All meals while camping, most other breakfasts and lunches
Transport: Overland Vehicle – Ferry
Staff: Tour Leader / Driver + Local Guides
Mountain Bikes
On board library

Cook Strait Ferry
Milford Sound Cruise

HIGHLIGHTS:
Wellington – Cook Strait Ferry – Kaikoura –Christchurch - Mt Cook Region - Dunedin - Southern Lakes – Queenstown – Milford Sound

TOUR ITINERARY - 9 DAYS

Day 1: Wellington to Kaikoura via the Cook Strait:
Today we cross the Cook Strait and enter the South Island through the scenic Marlborough Sounds, often dubbed New Zealand's 'little slice of Norway'. We arrive at Picton, the gateway to the Sounds, and make our way to Kaikoura via Marlborough which is New Zealand's top producing wine region. Kaikoura is home to some of the best sea creatures in the world. There is so much diversity and accessibility here because of the topography and depth of the ocean floor. You cannot be anything but impressed with Kaikoura; from the beautiful Peninsula backed by the snow-capped peaks of the Kaikoura Ranges to the whales, dolphins and seals.
*Possible upgrade available here.

Day 2: Kaikoura to Christchurch:
This morning before we depart Kaikoura we have the chance to go in search for the mighty Sperm Whale (weather permitting) - or maybe a swim with dolphins/seals in their natural environment. A drive along the Kaikoura coast and the 'Alpine Pacific Triangle' brings us to the very English looking city of Christchurch. The 'Garden City' has plenty to offer and you will have time to explore. Don't miss the Cathedral Square and the chance to meet the famous wizard! Take time out with a walk through tree lined Hagley Park which borders the city centre, and end your afternoon with a relaxed punt down the Avon River. Tonight we can head into town for a bit of local culture.

Day 3: Christchurch to Omarama:
We depart Christchurch and head South through the Canterbury Plains towards McKenzie Country. We stop for views along the way at Lakes Tekapo and Pukaki. We have the option of a flight over New Zealand's highest peak, Mt Cook, which is 3764m and produces fantastic aerial views of the mountains and surrounding areas. Tonight we spend the night at one of McKenzie Countries remote farm stations.

Day 4: Omarama to Dunedin:
Today as we make our way to Dunedin, New Zealand's Scottish and Victorian City, we stop along route to see Moreraki Boulders. Formed some 60 million years ago, these boulders have long been a subject of legend and curiosity. Dunedin is at the heart of one of New Zealand's most renowned eco tourism areas. Not only can one see the world's rarest penguin's, the Royal Albatross, New Zealand's Oldest University, but the world's steepest street, and a 19th Century Castle. And let's not forget an optional tour of the Speight's Brewery, 'The Southern Man's beer'. Tonight we can enjoy a night out in this Scottish City.

Day 5: Dunedin to Te Anau:
We head into Southland on the 'Southern Scenic Route' towards the famous Milford Sound. We make the ascent up to the Homer Tunnel, which is 1200m long and an experience on its own. As we drive into Milford Sound you will soon understand why we have travelled so far off the beaten track to get here. Come rain or shine this is truly New Zealand at its unparalleled and glorious best. Tonight we will relax before we take in the spectacular scenery.
*Possible upgrade available here.

Day 6: Milford Sound to Te Anau:
Today we hop aboard our boat for a breathtaking cruise in the heart of Milford Sound. You will see Mitre Peak, which has a dominate presence on the skyline. Milford Sound is 15km long and about 290m at its deepest. You also have the chance to visit the 160m Bowen falls. The fiords are home to a number of different wildlife, with Fur seals commonly being seen lying about on the rocks. We head back to Te Anau, New Zealand's second largest lake. This lovely little lake side town will allow you to appreciate the spacious open areas, beautiful lake views and the amazing contrasts that the South Island has on offer.
*Possible upgrade available here.

Day 7: Te Anau to Queenstown:
Today we head to the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown. You have more than a few options available to you for the next 48 hours. First, you can take time to relax and get your breath back, or you can fasten your seatbelt and jump in! .With the variety of activities on offer in and around Queenstown, you will be spoilt for choice. Jump off the bungee bridge, go white water rafting and follow that by a jet boat ride. When you think you have had enough, there's always more! It's out of the wet cloths and on with the dry, as we paint the town red by night. (Winter trips have the option of hitting the slopes, to catch up on some skiing).

Day 8: Queenstown:
You have today to explore this adventure town or just relax in the array of coffee shops on and around the lakes edge; the surrounding view will see your day pass very easily. Queenstown is one of top, and most scenic adventure venues in the world. Within the stunning setting of mountains and lake, you can do almost anything here. There are a number of wineraries here that offer very good wines - especially Pinot Noir - and claim to be the most southerly wineraries in the world. So instead of jetboating on the Shotover, perhaps a relaxing wine trail is more to your liking.


Day 9: Queenstown
Your tour officially finishes today after breakfast.