Uncover the secrets of the south, from historic towns to West Coast extremes, this tour will see it all. Flying directly to Dunedin from Auckland, you will arrive in a city built on the wealth of the gold rush. Following the gold trail through New Zealand’s southern heartland, you will cruise Fiordland and experience the stunning glaciers before returning to Auckland via one of the countries most spectacular rail journeys.

Day 1: Auckland - Dunedin

Fly to Dunedin “The Edinburgh of the South”, where you will be met and transferred to your accommodation.  The afternoon is free for optional activities such as visiting New Zealand’s only castle or viewing some of the Otago Peninsulas unique wildlife .  Stay 1 night in Dunedin.

Day 2: Dunedin - Te Anau
This morning take in more of the city sights including a quick  trip to the Cadbury chocolate factory or The Octagon. This afternoon travel south and west across the fertile Southland Plains to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland.  Stay 1 night in Te Anau.

Day 3: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown

A full day taking in the wonders of Eglington Valley, Homer Tunnel, Milford Sound and Mitre Peak. A cruise on the sound is included.  Continue north to Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown.  Stay 2 nights in Queenstown.

Day 4: At Queenstown

Today is free for you to enjoy this fabulous alpine resort. There are dozens of optional activities from thrilling jet boat rides to leisurely lake cruises, 4WD safaris and bungy jumping. This evening enjoy your dinner at Skyline restaurant including Gondola.

Day 5: Queenstown - Glaciers

Travel north via the Kawarau Gorge with its historic gold mines, then past the stone fruit growing region of Cromwell. You continue on through the Southern Lakes district including Lake Wanaka to the Haast Pass. Continue north, through dense rain forest broken by rugged coastal vistas, towards the glaciers. Stay 2 nights at Franz Josef or Fox Glacier.

Day 6: At Glaciers

A whole day is available for optional excursions on the Glacier, for bush walks or simply to soak up the beauty of snow-capped mountains contrasting with the deep greens of the native bush - add an experience.

Day 7: Glaciers - Greymouth - Christchurch

Travel north along the narrow, bush clad, coastal plain past Hokitika to Greymouth. Board the renowned TranzAlpine train and travel through the Otira tunnel, over Arthur’s Pass and down across the Canterbury Plains, arriving in Christchurch early evening. Stay 1 night at a Christchurch Airport hotel. 

Day 8: Christchurch - Auckland 

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Auckland. If the weather is favourable ask for window seats that will allow you to view Mt Ruapehu as you fly north above the volcanic plateau. Your tour ends on arrival at Auckland airport.