Chat now 0449 790 108
Chat now 0449 790 108

10 Day Signature South Island

Land Tour

Explore the landscapes of the spectacular South Island
*Note: All prices are based on Land-Only, upgrade to a flight inclusive package available upon request.

From price

$6,189
$5,689
From price per person, twin share
Tour Provider Grand Pacific Tours
Number Of Days
10
Start Location
Christchurch, New Zealand
End Location
Christchurch, New Zealand
Age Range
Avg. 50+
Group Size
20 to 32
Tour Style
Luxury
Tour Themes
No specific theme
Physical Rating
Easy to Moderate

Departure dates

From price per person, twin share
Start End Availability Price
29 Oct 2026 07 Nov 2026 On request $6,189
10 Nov 2026 19 Nov 2026 On request $6,189
19 Nov 2026 28 Nov 2026 Last seats $6,189
$5,689
29 Nov 2026 08 Dec 2026 Last seats $6,189
22 Jan 2027 31 Jan 2027 Available $6,189
12 Feb 2027 21 Feb 2027 Available $6,189
$5,689
20 Apr 2027 29 Apr 2027 Available $6,189
09 May 2027 18 May 2027 On request $6,189
$5,939
18 May 2027 27 May 2027 Available $6,189
$5,689

Inclusions

  • TranzAlpine Rail Journey
  • Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw
  • Lakes District Museum
  • Milford Sound Cruise and Lunch
  • Larnach Castle and Devonshire Tea
  • Dunedin City Sights Tour
  • Christchurch City Sights Tour

    • Itinerary details

    Day 1 - Arrive Christchurch

    On arrival into Christchurch, you will be met by a Grand Pacific Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. This evening enjoy a complimentary pre-dinner drink when you meet your Tour Leader and travelling companions for dinner.

    Hotel

    4.5 Star Accommodation

    Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey, 4.5 star hotel offers elegant rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.

    Meals D
    Day 2 - Christchurch - Arthur’s Pass - Franz Josef

    This morning board the TranzAlpine, renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world. Travel over massive viaducts, river valleys and spectacular gorges as you ascend to Arthur's Pass located in the centre of the Southern Alps. Board your coach and travel to Hokitika, famous for its Greenstone before continuing to the township of Franz Josef where time is available to experience a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the spectacular glaciers.

    Hotel

    4 Star Accommodation

    Only a breath away from the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier, in the heart of the village and edge of the Westland World Heritage Park, lies the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier offering everything you need to explore this dramatic region in style and comfort. The professional and friendly staff pride themselves on making your stay enjoyable and comfortable.

    Meals B,D
    Day 3 - Franz Josef - Queenstown

    See the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps as you travel south along the West Coast to the Fox Glacier township. Continue via the Haast Pass, an area of stunning beauty before arriving into picturesque Queenstown, a year-round resort situated on the shores of magical Lake Wakatipu. This evening is free to dine out at one of the many fine restaurants.

    Hotel

    4 Star Plus Accommodation

    Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping and entertainment district, Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown Gardens. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel.  All rooms at Millennium Hotel Queenstown are designed for complete relaxation with its inviting bed and cosy ambience, it’s a good nights rest for sure.

    Meals B
    Day 4 - Queenstown (Free Day)

    Today is a free day to explore Queenstown. Your crew will assist with the many optional activities available. You may wish to enjoy the thrill of a jet boat ride or a heritage tour of the scenic Skippers Canyon. This evening board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a delicious gourmet barbecue dinner featuring a menu of seasonal, fresh and locally sourced food at the Colonel’s Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSS Earnslaw for a sing along by the piano as you cruise back to Queenstown.

    Hotel

    4 Star Plus Accommodation

    Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping and entertainment district, Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown Gardens. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel.  All rooms at Millennium Hotel Queenstown are designed for complete relaxation with its inviting bed and cosy ambience, it’s a good nights rest for sure.

    Meals B,SD
    Day 5 - Queenstown - Te Anau

    Enjoy a leisurely start this morning before travelling to Arrowtown, an old gold mining village where you visit the Lakes District Museum. Continue to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland. Today you may like to visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves (optional).

    Hotel

    4 Star Accommodation

    Conveniently located in the heart of Te Anau's town shopping centre and a short stroll from the South Island’s largest lake - Lake Te Anau. Escape into the serene surroundings of Distinction Luxmore Hotel before heading out to explore the world-famous beauty of Fiordland including Milford Sound. Stay in rooms which are well appointed and modern with a Fiordland interior design theme. The hotel offers an excellent standard of service and the team at Distinction Luxmore will make your stay in Te Anau comfortable and enjoyable.

    Meals B,D
    Day 6 - Te Anau - Milford Sound - Te Anau

    Depart Te Anau for a fascinating drive to Milford Sound where you board your launch for a cruise on this magnificent fiord. See the spectacular Bowen Falls and towering Mitre Peak as you enjoy lunch onboard. This afternoon return to Te Anau where some free time is available. You might like to cap off your Fiordland experience by watching the breathtaking film, Ata Whenua - Shadowland, which screens at the Fiordland Cinema (optional).

    Hotel

    4 Star Accommodation

    Conveniently located in the heart of Te Anau's town shopping centre and a short stroll from the South Island’s largest lake - Lake Te Anau. Escape into the serene surroundings of Distinction Luxmore Hotel before heading out to explore the world-famous beauty of Fiordland including Milford Sound. Stay in rooms which are well appointed and modern with a Fiordland interior design theme. The hotel offers an excellent standard of service and the team at Distinction Luxmore will make your stay in Te Anau comfortable and enjoyable.

    Meals B,L,D
    Day 7 - Te Anau - Dunedin

    Travel via Gore and Balclutha to Dunedin known as the ‘Edinburgh of the South’ and enjoy a city tour. Travel along the Otago Peninsula to Larnach Castle where you will hear of the tragic and scandalous history on a guided tour. Enjoy a delicious Devonshire Tea and take time to wander around this Garden of International Significance.

    Hotel

    4.5 Star Accommodation

    Positioned in the heart of the city and just blocks from the Octagon, Scenic Hotel Dunedin City is within walking distance of many of the city's main attractions, great restaurants and shopping centres. This stylish hotel has a fresh contemporary design, with clean lines and dramatic features softened by natural elements such as timber and neutral tones.  The attention to style, quality, convenience and service is evident throughout the hotel.   

    Meals B,D
    Day 8 - Dunedin - Mt Cook - Twizel

    Farewell Dunedin and travel to Oamaru famous for its limestone. Follow the Waitaki River and see Lake Benmore as you continue to marvel at Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. The opportunity is available to enjoy a scenic flight (optional, weather permitting) over the Southern Alps. Travel to Twizel for your overnight stay.

    Hotel

    4 Star Accommodation

    Located in the heart of the Mackenzie region, a unique area of New Zealand's South Island where mountains meet the riverbeds sits a true country oasis. The Distinction Mackenzie Country features natural stonework and architecture that beautifully reflects and compliments the surrounding landscape. The hotel offers comfortably furnished guest rooms all featuring their own private balcony or patio from which to soak in the glorious mountain views. Featuring natural stone, roaring fires and expansive lawns, the Distinction Mackenzie Country is the ultimate place to unwind after a day experiencing the activities and sights the region has to offer. 

    Meals B,D
    Day 9 - Twizel - Christchurch

    Continue to Lake Tekapo, view the brilliant turquoise water, the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Sheep Dog Statue before arriving in Christchurch for a city tour. This evening enjoy a pre-dinner drink and reminisce on memories shared with your new friends at the farewell dinner.

    Hotel

    4.5 Star Accommodation

    Standing amongst the buzz of the rejuvenated Cathedral Square, the Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. This 11 storey, 4.5 star hotel offers elegant rooms which combine luxury and relaxation for all holidaymakers. These spacious air-conditioned hotel rooms include the latest technology as well as double glazed windows to ensure a restful night’s sleep. An ensuite bathroom with shower over bath and complimentary Distinction toiletries.

    Meals B,SD
    Day 10 - Depart Christchurch

    Time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home after a memorable New Zealand holiday.

    Meals B

    Frequently Asked Questions

    You should choose this tour for its luxury experience and seamless organization where everything is taken care of. It offers high-end accommodations ranging from 4 to 4.5 stars and the choice between Ultimate Small Group Tours with Business Class comfort or Signature Mid-Size Group Tours with Premium Economy seating, all while benefiting from the expertise of Grand Pacific Tours, a specialist in New Zealand coach holidays since 1996.
    This tour is designed for luxury-seeking travellers who appreciate comfort and convenience. It is ideal for those who enjoy scenic landscapes, rich heritage, and diverse culture, and who prefer a fully escorted experience where they can relax in high-quality coaches and hotels while exploring the South Island.
    The pros include luxury transport and 4 to 4.5-star hotel stays, a comprehensive itinerary covering major highlights like Milford Sound and the TranzAlpine train, and the convenience of a fully escorted trip. A potential con is that some of the most exciting activities, such as scenic flights over glaciers or the Glowworm Caves, are optional and incur extra costs.
    This tour is a great option for couples and solo travellers looking for a high-end, social experience with a group. While the provided text does not explicitly mention family-specific amenities, the luxury nature and structured itinerary make it a comfortable choice for any adult traveller or family seeking a premium holiday.
    This tour is excellent for first-time visitors to New Zealand, as it covers a wide array of iconic South Island landmarks and provides informative commentary from an expert crew to introduce guests to the country's rich heritage and culture.
    The tour is rated as 'Easy to Moderate' in terms of physicality, suggesting it is accessible for many. However, specific details regarding accessibility equipment or modifications for those with significant mobility concerns are not specified, so we recommend contacting us for more details.
    This tour is primarily focused on sightseeing and culture, featuring stunning landscapes, city tours in Christchurch and Dunedin, and historical visits like Larnach Castle. While it offers optional adventure activities like jet boating in Queenstown, the core experience is centered on viewing the spectacular scenery of the South Island.
    The pace of the tour is balanced. While it covers a significant amount of ground across the South Island, it includes a dedicated free day in Queenstown and a 'leisurely start' on Day 5, allowing guests time to relax and explore at their own pace.
    The itinerary feels thoughtfully planned to be relaxing yet comprehensive. By utilizing luxury coaches and providing a free day in Queenstown, the tour ensures that guests can enjoy the highlights without feeling overly rushed.
    Yes, the tour includes many key highlights such as the TranzAlpine train journey, Arthur's Pass, Franz Josef, Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, Milford Sound, Dunedin, Larnach Castle, Mt Cook, and Lake Tekapo.
    The tour is led by an expert crew and a Tour Leader who provide informative commentary on the country's heritage and culture, ensuring a smooth experience for English-speaking guests. Specifics regarding translation services for other languages are not mentioned.
    Disclaimer:
    These FAQs have been generated with the assistance of AI to provide a general overview. They are intended as a starting point only and should be reviewed based on your knowledge, current supplier information and client requirements.
    as
    Compare tours