Day 1 - 2
Board your transpacific flight and skip a day as you cross the International
Date Line.
Day 3 Arrive
Christchurch.
On arrival in Christchurch, the "Garden City," pick up your car from the
airport depot. Then you can take an historic tram ride, go shopping, or visit
the botanical gardens.
Day 4 Christchurch
Sightseeing.
Use this day to explore the city of Christchurch. If you are looking to go
further afield, take a drive to the beach of Brighton or on to Akaroa.
Alternatively, stay close to town and go shopping on Riccarton Road, visit the
cathedral or go punting on the Avon. Dimitri's Kebab Shop, just off cathedral
square, serves the best kebabs for a long way. Great value, freshly made and
they're always busy!
Day 5 Christchurch-Franz
Josef Glacier.
Today travel to Greymouth via Arthur's Pass, a journey famous for its
spectacular mountain scenery as it traverses the Southern Alps, as well as the
engineering feat involved in building the road. Travel south from Greymouth to
Franz Josef.
Day 6 Franz
Josef Glacier-Wanaka.
Before leaving Franz Josef, a trip to the glacier is a must. Either walk to the
base or take a flight - including a landing at the top - to view this
magnificent wonder. Continue on through Haast, past Lake Hawea and onto Wanaka.
Day 7 Wanaka-Arrowtown-Queenstown.
Depart Wanaka and drive past Lake Dunstan, heading for the gold rush town of
Arrowtown. The town has kept much of the architectural style from its gold rush
beginnings. A walk beside the river and a stroll through town are a great way to
absorb the atmosphere. Try a pie from the bakery on the corner of the main
street, facing the river. The pastry and the fillings may well be the best you
have the whole time you are in the country. Carry on to the adventure capital of
New Zealand -Queenstown.
Day 8 Queenstown.
Milford Sound Excursion.
Travel in a coach along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau, gateway to
FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK. View the Mirror Lakes as you continue through the
Eglinton Valley. From the Homer Tunnel emerge into the Cleddau Valley. Join your
Milford Sound CRUISE for an unforgettable experience, and explore the wonder of
this majestic fiord. Journey to the mouth of the sound and see the seals and
dolphins that inhabit this part of the world. Return to Queenstown.
Day 9 Queenstown.
A free day to enjoy the many leisure pursuits offered here. These include jet
boating, bungee jumping, traveling up the gondola, visiting wineries, and much
more. The staff at "The Station" can assist with information and reservations
for the huge selection of things to see and do.
Day 10 Queenstown-Mt.
Cook Region.
Depart Queenstown this morning through the Kawarau Gorge, over Lindis Pass and
into Mount Cook National Park. We suggest a scenic flight over some of New
Zealand's finest alpine scenery. As you pass through Cromwell, stop off at
Jackson's Orchard for great fruit, preserves, and honey.
Day 11 Mt. Cook
Region-Christchurch.
Today travel through Mackenzie country via Lake Tekapo where you can view the
solitary Church of the Good Shepherd. Reach the Canterbury Plains and arrive in
Christchurch, the "Garden City."
Day 12 Depart
Christchurch.
Your vacation arrangements conclude today as you return your rental car.