Day 1 Christchurch – Oamaru

We depart Christchurch for the drive south through the Canterbury Plains, stopping off to explore the small town of Geraldine on the way. At Oamaru visit the numerous artisan workshops in the magnificent Victorian Precinct, or perhaps the Steampunk Museum before checking into our accommodation. In the early evening opt to head to the harbour to see the Blue Penguins emerge from the ocean at the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony.
Meals (D)

Day 2 Oamaru – Dunedin

This morning we visit Moeraki, a lovely little fishing village in a secluded bay near a NZ Fur Seal colony. After spending some time here we head south to the Orokonui Ecosantuary. Here they have installed predator-proof fencing to protect a number of rare native bird species. Opt to take a walk through the enclosure to see some of these birds and other native flora and fauna. From here we head to the Otago Peninsula via the quirky town of Port Chalmers to Portobello. Enjoy a seaside lunch before heading into Dunedin City for some time exploring the galleries and museums of this city seeped in Scottish and Maori heritage.
Meals (B/D)

Day 3 Dunedin – Gore

Today we travel along the relatively unknown Catlin’s Coast, visiting various points of natural beauty along the way such as light houses, waterfalls, beaches and lakes. In the afternoon we arrive in Gore, the country music capital of NZ. Here we experience some authentic kiwi culture. There is the opportunity to visit the famed ‘Goreggenheim’ Eastern Southland Gallery, housing the Ralph Hotere Gallery and John Money Collection. Or alternatively, the Hokonui Moonshine Museum, bringing Gore’s colourful past as a centre for illicit whisky distilling and bootlegging to life!
Meals (B/D)

Day 4 Gore – Te Anau

We head to Fiordland, first visiting Lake Manapouri. There is an opportunity to do a short walk among the beech forest on the Kepler Track before we head to the quaint town of Te Anau. Visit the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary and see some rare endemic species up close. Settle into our accommodation for the next two nights.
Meals (B/D)

Day 5 Te Anau (Fiordland)

Today is free for you to explore Fiordland in your own way. Being dominated by the steep sides of the snow-capped Southern Alps, deep lakes, and steep, glacier-carved fiords, most of Fiordland is inaccessible by road. Seeing it from the water in either Milford or Doubtful Sound, or by the air, is the way to go. There are many options to choose from however a journey into Milford Sound followed by a cruise, or alternative a day trip to Doubtful Sound are a great options. For a once in a lifetime experience, a scenic helicopter flight would offer a truly remarkable experience of Fiordland. In the evening we regroup and share our adventures.
Meals (B/D)

Day 6 Te Anau – Queenstown

This morning we enjoy the amazing views alongside Lake Wakatipu on our way to Arrowtown. We stop off at a winery for a chance to taste the local wines along the way. In Arrowtown check into our accommodation and explore the galleries and boutiques of the Arrowtown precinct and Chinese Village, or take a walk along the river trail. We then head to Queenstown and the end of the tour.
Meals (B)

What’s included in the tour package?

• 5 nights double/twin share ensuite accommodation
• 5 evening meals; 5 continental breakfasts (indicated by B/L/D in the itinerary)
• the services of a tour leader
• all transport from Christchurch to Queenstown
• Goods & Services Tax of 15%

Not included in the tour package:

• lunches
• wine; beer; espresso coffees
• single accommodation supplement ($350)
  Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony entry (from $36)
• Orokonui Ecosantuary entry (from (18)
• Eastern Southland Gallery Entry
• Milford Sound Cruise (from $135) OR
• Doubtful Sound Cruise (from $275) OR
• Fiordland Scenic Flight (from $250-$500)
• optional wine tasting