Premium New Zealand South Island
Experience Overview
Taking you from Christchurch to Queenstown via glaciers, wineries, lakes and cruise on Milford Sound, this 10-day Premium trip showcases the natural beauty and thriving food and wine scene in the South Island of New Zealand. Forage for fresh ingredients with a local chef in Otago and come face to face with endangered species at a wildlife Centre on the West Coast, including New Zealand’s rarest kiwi. With a friendly leader to guide the way you’ll experience a landscape that has been shaped by the elements over thousands of years.
Highlights
- Soak up one of the best parts of New Zealand’s South Island – it's wine! During your Feature Stay in Gibbston Valley, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting, indulge in a 3-course dinner and watch the sunset over the mountains (maybe from the on-site hot tubs)!
- Savour the flavours of the Otago region with a chef-led food and foraging Exclusive Experience on an expansive and stunning New Zealand deer station.
- Cruise the waters of iconic Milford Sound on a Premium day cruise, where you’ll enjoy drinks and canapes on board as you look out for the waterfalls, local wildlife and learn about the area.
- Enjoy a ranger-guided walk around the aptly named Blue Pools that feed the Makarora River and learn about the important work of the Aspiring Biodiversity Trust to reduce predators and save some of New Zealand’s rarest species.
- Take a 'backstage tour' of the West Coast Wildlife Centre, helping bring the critically endangered Rowi and Haast tokoeka kiwi back from extinction. Come face-to-face with these rare creatures.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2252
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Unknown
Transport: Private vehicle
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: PHPS
Starts: Christchurch, New Zealand
Finishes: Queenstown, New Zealand
Duration: 10 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (9), Lunch (2), Dinner (4)Accommodation: Hotel (9 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $5584 ($558 /day)
Itinerary
Welcome to New Zealand! When you arrive in Christchurch, you’ll be met at the airport by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. Your adventure officially begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight, followed by a welcome dinner at a tiny restaurant and natural wine bar featuring produce from the Canterbury region. Enjoy a three-course dinner celebrating local producers at a restaurant that champions sustainability.
Included Activities:
- Christchurch - Welcome Dinner
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Accommodation:
- The Fable Christchurch or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Take a morning stroll with your leader around some of the landmarks of Christchurch. Then, set off for Punakaiki, driving through Arthur’s Pass and Castle Hill – the spectacular mountain scenery may look familiar, as parts of The Chronicles of Narnia and Lord of the Rings movies were filmed here. After lunch in Moana, spend the afternoon in Greymouth, stopping into a boutique studio to learn about the prized west coast jade known locally as Pounamu (Greenstone). Then, continue to Monteith's Brewery, considered the original home of New Zealand craft brewing for a tour and tasting. Arrive at Punakaiki Resort by late afternoon – in Paparoa National Park, this resort lies next to Punakaiki Beach and the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes.
Included Activities:
- Greymouth - Monteith's Brewery Tour & Tasting
- Greymouth - Pounamu (Greenstone) Studio Visit
- Christchurch - Leader-led Orientation Walk
- Lake Brunner - Nature Walk
Accommodation:
- Scenic Hotel Punakaiki or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
After breakfast, explore the Punakaiki Rocks and Blowholes before the drive to Franz Josef. Along the way, stretch your legs at the charming west coast town of Hokitika and enjoy an exhilarating treetop adventure on a walk through the ancient Rimu and Kamahi tree canopy. In the afternoon, take a private ranger-guided tour of the West Coast Wildlife Centre – home of the official breeding programme for the world's rarest kiwi, the Rowi. Also keep an eye out for tuatara (a reptile endemic to New Zealand). Arrive in Franz Josef in the late afternoon, where you’ll have a free evening.
Included Activities:
- Hokitika - West Coast Treetops Walk
- Franz Josef - West Coast Wildlife Centre Visit with Ranger
- Punakaiki - Rocks & Blowhole Visit
Accommodation:
- Rainforest Retreat Deluxe Tree Hut or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Begin your day with a self-guided walk to see the icy wonderland created by the Franz Josef Glacier – one of the steepest glaciers in New Zealand. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you may like to join an optional heli-hiking tour and get even closer to the glacier. Other optional activities include kayaking, a scenic cruise on Lake Mapourika or a soak in the hot tubs at Franz Josef.
Optional Activities:
- Franz Josef - Lake Mapourika Scenic Cruise (125 NZD)
- Franz Josef - Waiho Hot Tubs - from (89 NZD)
- Franz Josef - Heli-Hiking Tour - from (695 NZD)
- Franz Josef - Kayaking Excursion - from (149 NZD)
Accommodation:
- Rainforest Retreat Deluxe Tree Hut or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart Franz Josef for the resort town of Wanaka – the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park, located in the Otago region. Stop along the way at Makarora and visit the Aspiring Biodiversity Trust – an organisation that strives to protect and restore indigenous biodiversity. After lunch, take a guided flora and fauna walk with a local ornithologist and ecologist. Keep an eye out for endangered birds as you learn about how the Aspiring Biodiversity Trust is working to reduce predators and save some of New Zealand’s rarest species. Arrive in Wanaka by late afternoon and settle into your home for the next two nights. Located next to the resplendent Wanaka Station Park on the shores of Lake Wanaka, and a short stroll from Wanaka township, you'll be perfectly placed to enjoy all this popular town has to offer.
Included Activities:
- Makaroa - Aspiring Biodiversity Trust Lunch
- Makaroa - Guided Flora and Fauna Walk with Local Ornithologist
Accommodation:
- Edgewater Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Enjoy a sleep in this morning or start your day with a hike up Mt Iron for a view over Lake Wanaka and the surrounding peaks. Central Otago is a region well known for food and wine, and today you’ll visit the spectacular Criffel Station. Here you will be shown around the farm by the family before a delicious lunch made using local produce.
Included Activities:
- Wanaka - Criffel Station Lunch Experience
Accommodation:
- Edgewater Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Soak up a free morning in gorgeous Wanaka, then take the short drive to Arrowtown – known for its heritage town centre and autumn festival, this leafy community is perfect to explore on foot. When you arrive, you’ll take a leader-led walking tour through the cute shops and cafes, then head on to your Feature Stay accommodation at Kinross Winery in the Gibbston Valley. This working vineyard near Queenstown features on-site hot tubs and mountain scenery. During your stay, you’ll have a wine-tasting session followed by a 3-course group dinner featuring local, fresh produce.
Included Activities:
- Arrowtown - Leader-led Walking Tour
- Gibbston Valley - Wine Tasting
Accommodation:
- Kinross Winery or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is all about the gorgeous scenery of the South Island! Say goodbye to the vineyard after breakfast and start your journey to the iconic Milford Sound – surrounded by mountains and, depending on the season and rainfall, hundreds of waterfalls, this place is well-acclaimed for a reason. When you arrive at the port, you’ll take a Premium day cruise to try to spot the local wildlife, waterfalls and amazing scenery from the water. Enjoy drinks and canapes on board, as well as in-depth commentary. After the cruise, head on to Queenstown for a free evening.
Included Activities:
- Milford Sound - Day Cruise
Accommodation:
- Ramada Queenstown or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Soak up a free morning and early afternoon in Queenstown, making the most of your time in this scenic city. Wander at your own pace, then head out in the late afternoon with your group. You’ll board the TSS Earnslaw – an iconic, century-old coal-fired steamship. Cruise along Lake Whatkatipu to Walter High Peak Country Farm, taking in the scenery of the lake as you go. When you arrive, enjoy a sheep dog demonstration before sitting down for their famous gourmet barbeque dinner. Maybe say a cheers to an amazing adventure, then cruise back to Queenstown as the sun sets.
Included Activities:
- Queenstown - Walter High Peak Country Farm visit and BBQ dinner
- Queenstown - Lake Whakatipu Steamboat Cruise
Accommodation:
- Ramada Queenstown or similar (Number of Nights: 1)
Your New Zealand adventure ends this morning after breakfast. As this trip spends little time in Queenstown, it’s recommended that you spend an extra day or two if you want to experience all the town has to offer. Your booking agent will be happy to book additional accommodation for you, just get in touch ahead of time.
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Brian - Traveled, January 2024
Summer was the best (she told me to say that , but it is true. She always had everything organized, timely, communicated very well. She looked out for and took care of everyone and made everyone feel special. We have a trip lined up for Japan, that leader has there work cut out for them to meet the expectation Summer has provided for us . We look forward to our next trip with Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/22/2024
Yvette - Traveled, January 2024
Perfect balance between planned activities and free time so there is freedom to explore through more physical activities, or relaxing and enjoy the amazing scenery and food. Highly recommend this amazing trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/16/2024
Gina - Traveled, December 2023
It was such an amazing trip that I got emotional when I was leaving and shed tears after saying goodbye. The New Zealand Premium tour was the experience of a lifetime. Everything was perfectly thought out and organized. Each day was like being in a new little world! I had an absolute blast with the fellow travelers and our amazing, knowledgeable guide, Summer. If you are considering this trip-GO FOR IT. I wish I could do it all over again. thank you intrepid for the lifelong memories!!! I can’t wait to do another trip with you again one day!!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/10/2024
Mary - Traveled, December 2023
Good tour spectacular scenery well organised. Detour because of road closure was well handled. Good guide very friendly approachable flexible knowledgeable Good variety of activities. On the whole we met well informed people who delivered their knowledge very well. Milford Sound was a big highlight. Great emphasis on biodiversity. Have come away from tour with very positive feelings about New Zealand the people, their history and traditions, their excellent food quality, their care for the environment, people flora fauna and the country’s traditions. Would recommend highly.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/18/2023
Ian - Traveled, May 2023
The grandeur of New Zealand and our excellent tour leader made this a memorable trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/09/2023
Barbara - Traveled, March 2023
An excellent itinerary that covered a variety of landscapes and many differing and interesting experiences, including learning more about what is being done to protect NZ's natural species and biodiversity. Our tour leader/driver Michelle did an excellent job, which added to the overall trip experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/16/2023
Cheryl - Traveled, February 2023
The South Island tour led by Michelle was fantastic and exceeded our expectations. With a small group our individual needs were accommodated when needed. The itinerary and accommodations were top rate. We had a good mix of personal and group time.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/10/2023
Naji - Traveled, December 2023
This was a phenomenal tour that provides the perfect balance between thoughtfully-organized group activities and ample time for self-guided adventures. If you're looking to check the 'must-sees' of the South Island off your bucket list in the company of a rockstar tour guide and fairly luxurious accommodations, I would strongly consider hopping on board.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/06/2023
Brendan - Traveled, May 2022
An amazing experience led superbly by passionate, knowledgeable, experienced guides. An inaugural trip in a small group, went without a hitch. Stunning scenery, food and experiences. Miss the group already, the friendly guides added so much.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/16/2022
Sabrina - Traveled, May 2022
The tour was very well planned out and the activities were awesome. The pace of the tour was good and amount of planned vs free time was just nice. This was our first Intrepid tour but definitely won't be our last!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/30/2022
John - Traveled, February 2025
Intrepid again provided a terrific experience. In particular our leader, Grant , was wonderful. New Zealand is not to be missed and we’ll be back next year! Well done Intrpid and all!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/10/2025
Isabelle - Traveled, March 2025
The tour on the South island is incredible. So many amazing views and experiences. Our guide was fantastic, keeping us organized and informed, while driving us safely through the mountainous terrain. There are great walks and beautiful town to see along the way. We had many beautiful look out stops. There was plenty of free time as well, to do your own thing. A great vacation. Highly reccomend it!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/20/2025
Michael - Traveled, March 2025
New Zealand is an absolutely stunning country. Anne, our guide showed us all its magic
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/06/2025
Graeme - Traveled, March 2025
The Premium South Island trip was an adventure of a life time. Excellently planned, Annie was a fantastic tour guide and worth every minute she spent on the trip
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/06/2025
Iliana - Traveled, March 2025
Amazing trip of the South Island. Our trip leader, Annie, was super knowledgeable about the history, culture and environment of the amazing country. Saw such a variety of landscapes, from alpine regions to beaches to fjords. Learnt a lot about the Maori culture and the unique wildlife of New Zealand. Would recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/06/2025
Stephanie - Traveled, February 2024
A truly wonderful trip completely made by our extremely professional and knowledgeable tour guide/driver/ organiser, Wayne. Hotels and food mediocre but scenery amazing, The itinerary needs updating as time was wasted and many additional miles travelled in a squashed minibus visiting pointless now empty former attractions. Admin and communication from Intrepid needs improving.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/08/2024
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