Inspiring Journeys - The 12 day Southern Drift Itinerary

‘Haere Mai’ … Welcome to New Zealand!

Your adventure begins in Christchurch. Send the afternoon at leisure before meeting your Journey Director and fellow companions for a Welcome Reception

Some suggested excursions if you have time.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

Begin your day by exploring Christchurch's city sights before journeying to the brilliant bright blue waters of Lake Tekapo. You'll visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, which was built in 1935, and the first church in the Mackenzie Basin. Continue your adventure to the exquisite Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, where you'll indulge in a sophisticated High Tea complemented by local sparkling wine and the majestic views of Lake Pukaki. This experience supports the owners, Kaye and Luke Paardekooper's ongoing land regeneration project, which started in 2010 and has been thriving ever since. End your day at the charming Lake Ohau Lodge, nestled in the Mackenzie High Country and surrounded by breathtaking wilderness. The Main Lodge boasts a cozy open fire and expansive windows with stunning views of the lake, providing the perfect setting to unwind before a delectable dinner with wine.

Meals: Breakfast, High Tea, Dinner

Accommodation: Lake Ohau - 1 Night

Travel through Lindis Pass to Cromwell. Visit Mrs. Jones Orchard for fresh produce, then explore the Highlands Museum, a paradise for car enthusiasts and novices alike. Enjoy a special wine tasting experience and delicious lunch at Gibbston Valley's Kinross cellar door. Continue your journey to Arrowtown, a charming village with a rich gold rush heritage, before reaching scenic Queenstown for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Queenstown - 2 Nights

 

Today, explore Queenstown at your own pace. Why not sit back and enjoy a peaceful cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard New Zealand’s oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak Station (own expense). As the day winds down, prepare for an unforgettable evening at the Bathhouse, an elegant dining establishment spectacularly situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Savour a sumptuous meal while taking in vast, serene lakeside view, creating a perfect finale to your day.

Recommended Queenstown Excursions:

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today continue your journey South to Te Anau, located on the shores of the South Island’s largest lake and enjoy lunch at a local farm, immersing yourself in the authentic flavours of the region. Travel through World Heritage Fiordland National Park's stunning glaciers and lush rainforest.

Spend the night aboard the iconic Milford Mariner and wake up in one of the most beautiful places on earth. The cruise style is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to view the fiord’s spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains, and diverse wildlife such as seals, penguins, and dolphins. Hear from the specialist nature guide on board or choose to explore the shoreline by kayak or small boat.

The Milford Mariner offers the facilities of a larger ship while retaining the intimate atmosphere of a small ship. Onboard facilities are made up of spacious viewing decks, a dining saloon with fully licensed bar, as well as an observation lounge. Dining included in your cruise are hors d’oeuvres followed by a sumptuous three-course meal, as well as a choice between continental or a cooked breakfast.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Milford Mariner - 1 Night

We leave the majestic Fiordland National Park and journey to the picturesque town of Wānaka, nestled amidst the majestic Southern Alps and gracing the shores of Lake Wānaka. This idyllic town offers a perfect blend of natural splendour and leisurely pursuits. Upon arrival, choose between a variety of outdoor activities at the opulent Edgewater Lake Wānaka. Whether you prefer to explore the scenic surroundings by mountain bike, enjoy a friendly game of tennis, or relax with classic lawn games, there is something for everyone. As the day concludes, savour a delightful dinner accompanied by wine, set against the tranquil backdrop of Lake Wānaka.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Wanaka - 1 Night

Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Wānaka, passing the quiet waters of Lake Hawea and the picturesque settlement of Makarora – a hikers hub surrounded by vast alpine scenery and river valleys of lush temperate rainforest. Continue to the West Coast town of Haast, full of diverse landscapes that will captivate your senses.

Experience a Haast River jet boat adventure, gliding through pristine waterways surrounded by breathtaking wilderness. This exhilarating ride offers a unique perspective of the region’s natural beauty. Arrive in Franz Josef and settle into the splendid Te Waonui Forest Retreat. In the evening, indulge in a sumptuous dinner accompanied by wine, enveloped by the serene ambiance of this forest sanctuary.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Franz Josef - 2 Nights

Begin your day at a leisurely pace, soaking in the spectacular surroundings of Franz Josef. Explore this captivating region with a local guide, who will illuminate the wonders of its majestic glaciers, verdant rainforests, and uniquely varied landscapes. After a day of immersive discovery, return to the calm respite of Te Waonui Forest Retreat, where you can unwind and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

Meals: Breakfast
 

Begin your day at a leisurely pace, soaking in the spectacular surroundings of Franz Josef. Explore this captivating region with a local guide, who will illuminate the wonders of its majestic glaciers, verdant rainforests, and uniquely varied landscapes. After a day of immersive discovery, return to the calm respite of Te Waonui Forest Retreat, where you can unwind and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

Your holiday concludes this morning after breakfast. You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Have a great homeward journey, farewell and hope to see you again soon!

Meals: Breakfast

Flights to depart anytime from Christchurch Airport

Itinerary Variations:
The provider strives to improve trip itineraries. If improvements can be made, or if circumstances beyond their control make changes necessary, the provider reserves the right to vary itineraries and to make substitutions.