Part of the First Light Travel Group
South Pacific Specialists
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Explore the very best of the South Island Adventure. Discover hidden gems, land on remote alpine vistas, immerse yourself in nature the and indulge at luxury lodges. Discover our world of sophisticated splendor and incredible scenery paired with unforgettable bespoke guided experiences.
Duration: 14 Days
Starts: Christchurch
Finishes: Queenstown
‘Haere Mai’ and Welcome to New Zealand!
New Zealand’s second-largest city, Christchurch, sits on the edge of the Canterbury Plains and is bordered by the Pacific Ocean. Known as “The Garden City,” it blends heritage with innovation, offering vibrant street art, cutting-edge projects, and a thriving hospitality scene. Nestled between the Southern Alps and the Canterbury Plains, it’s a dynamic hub of culture and nature. Explore scenic parks, modern architecture, and some of the country’s oldest buildings, all set within lush green spaces that invite relaxation and discovery. Christchurch is truly a city of renewal and charm.
2 Nights Accommodation at The George Included Meals: Dinner
Hike along Banks Peninsula's volcanic rim, featuring stunning coastal views and historical sites
Enjoy a privately guided Crater Rim Walk with luxury touches and relaxed pacing. Travel in a private SUV from your accommodation to Sumner/Lyttelton, where the walk begins with hot drinks at a local café. Hike 3–4 hours along the scenic volcanic rim, passing WWII relics and taking in panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Lyttelton Harbour, and the Southern Alps. A gourmet picnic lunch is served at a picturesque spot before returning to Christchurch. Every detail is carefully curated for a memorable, personalised experience.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Refreshments, Dinner
Take in the dramatic scenery of Aoraki/Mount Cook and the Southern Alps on your scenic drive
Collect your rental vehicle this morning and venture south today. The drive from Christchurch to The Lindis offers an ever-changing tapestry of South Island scenery. Journey through rolling Canterbury plains, past golden tussock fields, and alongside the turquoise waters of Lakes Tekapo and Pukaki. Snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps frame the route, while the landscape transforms into the dramatic high-country of the Lindis Pass. Expansive valleys, braided rivers, and vast open skies create a breathtaking sense of scale and solitude—perfectly setting the tone for a tranquil and luxurious alpine escape.
2 Nights Accommodation at The Lindis Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximate Distance: 355 km
Total Driving Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
Explore your serene surroundings through a range of exclusive activities on offer
The Lindis offers a curated selection of outdoor adventures and luxurious relaxation. Explore the Ahuriri Valley on horseback, hike through dramatic alpine landscapes, or enjoy e-bike rides along scenic trails. Fly fishing in the renowned Ahuriri River is a highlight during the summer season, while gliding offers breathtaking aerial views of the region. For those seeking tranquillity, spa treatments including massages and facials provide rejuvenation in a serene setting. Each activity is designed to immerse guests in the raw beauty and solitude of this spectacular high-country environment.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Refreshments, Dinner
Experience a high-country farm and the breathtaking panoramic views of Roy's Peak from the air
Make your way to Wanaka where your Roy’s Peak adventure begins with a 4WD journey through the stunning landscapes of West Wanaka Station, an authentic high-country farm. Stop for refreshments at a private mountain-top viewpoint overlooking Lake Wanaka and the snow-capped peaks of Mt Aspiring National Park. From there, board a helicopter for a once-in-a-lifetime flight to Coromandel Peak on Mt Roy. Enjoy time for photos at this iconic spot before flying back to meet your 4WD and return to Wanaka. This afternoon you will head to your stunning accommodation in Lake Hāwea.
2 Nights Accommodation at Lake Hawēa Station Included Meals: Breakfast
Approximate Distance: 130 km
Total Driving Time: 2 hours
Take on a thrilling ferrata climb & helicopter descent alongside a cascading waterfall
Experience the ultimate adventure with the Level 3 climb! This thrilling journey includes crossing a 2-wire bridge, navigating behind a stunning 60m waterfall, and climbing through an airy overhang. As Wildwire’s most extreme climb, it’s designed for fit adventure seekers with a strong head for heights. You’ll scale the entire waterfall to reach the summit and finish with an exhilarating helicopter ride down. Get ready for an unforgettable, adrenaline-pumping experience!
Included Meals: Breakfast
Cross alpine valleys, lakes and Southland farmland on your journey to the heart of Fiordland National Park
The drive from Lake Hāwea Station to Fiordland Lodge showcases some of New Zealand’s most diverse and breathtaking scenery. Travel through the Cardrona Valley and over the Crown Range, offering panoramic views of the Southern Alps. Next, you have the option to visit the charming historical gold mining village of Arrowtown before following the edge of Lake Wakatipu, pass through Kingston, and traverse Southland’s rolling farmland. As you near Te Anau, lush forests and expansive lakes set the stage for your arrival at Fiordland Lodge—a serene gateway to the Fiordland wilderness.
3 Nights Accommodation at Fiordland Lodge Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximate Distance: 250 km
Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Soar past towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, lush rainforests and experience remote alpine landings
Todays scenic helicopter scenic flight will reveal the breathtaking beauty of both Doubtful and Milford Sounds. Departing Te Anau, soar over Lake Manapouri into Doubtful Sound’s serene wilderness, landing at Campbell’s Kingdom—a hidden alpine valley with a waterfall and lake. Continue over dramatic fiords to Milford Sound, where a second landing awaits at Lake Quill, the source of towering Sutherland Falls. This unforgettable experience offers panoramic views, remote alpine landings, and a rare perspective on Fiordland’s most majestic and untouched landscapes—all in one extraordinary journey.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy a day to soak in the serene beauty of Lake Te Anau and enjoy everything on offer at Fiordland Lodge
Begin your free day at Fiordland Lodge with a gourmet breakfast overlooking Lake Te Anau. Embark on a guided nature walk or explore nearby trails like the Kepler Track. In the afternoon, relax in the lodge’s hot tub or enjoy a massage. As evening falls, savor a multi-course dinner featuring local ingredients, complemented by wines from the lodge’s cellar. Conclude your day by the fireplace or stargazing under Fiordland’s clear skies.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Take an exhilarating leap into the unknown and discover the adventure capital of Queenstown
Experience the thrill of the Shotover Canyon Swing, launching from a 109-metre-high platform above the Shotover River. Freefall 60 metres before soaring through the canyon—choose from over 70 creative jump styles, from wild to quirky. Then, explore Queenstown, set in New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes. The pristine shores of Lake Wakatipu reflect majestic mountains, while vibrant streets invite discovery with boutique shops and cafés. Rich in Māori culture, Queenstown blends heritage with beauty, offering a serene yet adventurous escape into nature and local charm—an unforgettable highlight of any journey.
2 Nights Accommodation at Eichardts Private Hotel Included Meals: Breakfast
Approximate Distance: 170 km
Total Driving Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Explore, relax or make the most of the adventure activities on offer followed by a relaxing soak at Onsen Hot Pools
Queenstown is a perfect destination for those who appreciate both nature and culture. Whether you’re drawn to tranquil lakeside walks or browsing boutique shops and galleries, the town offers something for everyone. Stroll the waterfront, take in stunning views, and enjoy the charm of its lively streets. Ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers, Queenstown invites you to unwind and explore at your own pace. After a day of discovery, soak in a private cedar tub at Onsen Hot Pools, enjoying serene views of the Shotover River and surrounding mountains.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Drive through some of New Zealand’s most spectacular alpine landscapes to your remote sanctuary
The drive from Queenstown to Blanket Bay near Glenorchy is a breathtaking journey along the 46 km Glenorchy-Queenstown Road, renowned as one of New Zealand’s most scenic routes. The road winds alongside Lake Wakatipu, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Highlights include stops at Sunshine Bay, Bob’s Cove, and the Bennetts Bluff Lookout, each providing stunning vistas and photo opportunities. As you approach Blanket Bay, the landscape transitions into serene alpine meadows, setting the stage for a tranquil retreat.
2 Nights Accommodation at Blanket Bay Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Approximate Distance: 45 km
Total Driving Time: 45 minutes
Jetboat through Mount Aspiring National Park and paddle through hidden streams, rock pools and dramatic chasms
The Funyak journey begins with an exhilarating jet boat ride from Glenorchy into the breathtaking Mount Aspiring National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then, paddle down crystal-clear waters in inflatable Funyaks, guided through hidden streams rich with native flora and fauna. A gourmet picnic lunch beside the river offers a peaceful break amid birdsong and beech forest. The adventure ends with a scenic coach ride back to Glenorchy, passing iconic film locations. Expert guides ensure safety and provide an unforgettable experience in one of New Zealand’s most stunning natural settings.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Make your way back to Queenstown Airport for your onward journey
With 14 days of taking on the iconic opportunities for adventure in the South Island, you will have made enduring memories and fondness of your time in New Zealand. Stay in touch and let us create more South Pacific dream trips for you.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Approximate Distance: 45 km
Total Driving Time: 45 minutes
“The untouched beauty of World Heritage National Parks and outstanding accommodations make this an itinerary full of adventure and new expereinces. The hero of this journey is the majestic grandeur of the Southern Alps, tusscok highlands and rainforest that sweep gracefully alongside the lowlands.”
Ready to find out more? Talk to one of our friendly travel designers about his tour. We guarantee you it will be the experience of a lifetime!
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The George hotel in Christchurch typifies luxury at every level. Extensive facilities, comprehensive service, excellent quality and attention to detail. Experience our signature style and consistent personalised service. The George restaurant – the award-winning 50 Bistro offers a beautiful setting overlooking Hagley Park, event spaces offer natural light, seclusion and all the modern conveniences while the accommodation offers 5-star comfort.
In the pristine Ahuriri Valley in New Zealand’s South Island, an iconic luxury lodge has been created on its own 6,000-acre site, surrounded on three sides by conservation parks. Guests can enjoy hiking, mountain climbing, biking, and horse riding, or simply relax and soak in the tranquillity. At night, marvel at the Milky Way and embrace the sound of silence. In today’s fast-paced world, the lodge offers a rare chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience peace in a setting of modern, refined sophistication and comfort.
Lake Hawea Station offers a unique blend of luxury and sustainability for the high-end traveller. Nestled in New Zealand’s stunning Southern Alps, this carbon-positive working farm provides exclusive accommodation with panoramic lake and mountain views. Guests enjoy private access to hiking and biking trails, gourmet farm-to-table dining, and immersive experiences like heli-touring and regenerative farming tours. With its commitment to conservation and bespoke service, Lake Hawea Station delivers an extraordinary, eco-conscious escape in one of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.
The open architecture of Fiordland Lodge reflects the vastness of the Fiordland National Park. Echoes of the forest are found in the striking natural timber construction; high ceilings, full trunk pillars and a massive river stone fireplace provide a warm spacious environment. A commanding staircase leads from the impressive lounge to a peaceful inviting mezzanine, complete with a library and fly tying area. On forty acres of land, Fiordland Lodge is set on a superb site with commanding views out across Lake Te Anau.
Eichardt’s Private Hotel is a Queenstown icon providing fine accommodation in seven luxurious Lake View Suites, four comfortably appointed Lakefront Apartments, The Residence and The Penthouse, all situated on premium lakefront positions in the heart of Queenstown. Eichardt’s opulent suites invite guests to soak up a sense of quiet before exploring one of the world’s truly remarkable locations. The hotel suites all feature a super-king bed, fireplace and mini-bar, a dressing room and bathroom.
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Glenorchy, Blanket Bay is a luxurious retreat that seamlessly blends opulence with nature’s grandeur. This exclusive lodge offers an unparalleled experience with its meticulously designed accommodations, gourmet dining, and a plethora of outdoor adventures. Three compelling reasons to choose Blanket Bay:
Christchurch is the city of exploration, where urban regeneration and heritage thrive. The city is constantly evolving, always giving locals and visitors something new to explore. Expect street art and innovative projects, a bustling hospitality scene and established green spaces. Christchurch is the newest city in the world, and it’s time the world rediscovered its secrets.The central city is filled with cutting-edge architecture alongside some of the oldest buildings in New Zealand. The Avon River intersects the city, bringing a natural landscape to the urban environment.
Wanaka Town is located on the southern shores of Lake Wanaka, embraced by the Southern Alps, Wanaka is Otago’s second resort town after Queenstown. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Wanaka, New Zealand’s fourth largest lake, reflect the snow-capped peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park. Here you can absorb the unstoppable beauty of pristine wilderness and know that it will be easy to find a great restaurant for dinner. The township of Wanaka is a magnet for visitors who want to find the perfect combination of outdoor adventure and indoor luxury.
MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK
Mt Cook National Park is known for its exquisite alpine beauty and is home to the highest mountain in New Zealand, Mt Cook. Its Maori name, ‘Aoraki’ means ‘cloud piercer’ and at 12,016ft (3,755m) it towers above the surrounding snow-covered peaks in the park. A third of the park is covered in permanent ice and snow and the mighty Tasman Glacier is the longest glacier outside of the polar regions. This is the very heart and soul of a World Heritage and National Park wilderness playground. Ice, snow, hidden valleys, lakes and glaciers offer golden opportunities for discovery, relaxation and adventure.
Te Anau is a township of tranquil beauty nestled on the shores of Lake Te Anau. It is located close to the main southern walking tracks such as the Hollyford, Routeburn and Greenstone Tracks. Other activities based at Te Anau include flight seeing, fishing, kayaking, sailing and horse riding as well as a variety of trips on the lake itself. You can also visit the underground waterfall and glow-worm grotto of the Te Anau Caves. This mountainous region of unspoilt forests and lakes was the home of two of the more remote regions of the Lord of the Rings movies.
Queenstown, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the magnificent Southern Alps, is New Zealand’s most celebrated destination. Offering a wealth of accommodation to suit all travellers, there is huge diversity in the experiences to be enjoyed – from adrenaline activities such as bungee jumps and sky diving, adventurous excursions like jet-boating and hiking through to superb golf, gourmet food and wine tours, alpine tours and hiking.
Just 45 minutes from Queenstown, Glenorchy is nestled on the northern shores of Lake Wakatipu & is the gateway to hiking trails and MiddleEarth™ magic.
Glenorchy’s soaring peaks, pristine lakes, glacial rivers, and ancient beech forests are a dream destination for outdoor adventures. Home to New Zealand’s finest hiking, the awe-inspiring scenery has formed the backdrop for films like Narnia, The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings.
No matter whether you want to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings or be challenged in the great outdoors, you won’t leave disappointed.
Glenorchy offers a range of accommodation options, from the rustic charms of the local campsite to New Zealand’s finest eco-retreat, as well as luxurious lodges and wilderness retreats.
