New Zealand South Island 9 Days 8 Nights Tour

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Day 1: Christchurch – Tekapo (230km / 3 hours)

Welcome to Christchurch, the "Garden City"! Our professional guide will greet you at Christchurch International Airport (Pick-up at 9:30 AM or 12:00 PM). Then, we will head to Tekapo, the world's first International Dark Sky Reserve. Here, you can gaze at the twinkling stars and the Milky Way above, immersing yourself in the breathtaking night sky.

We will also visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, a small yet unique chapel built entirely from stone, standing peacefully by Lake Tekapo. The lake’s distinctive turquoise color comes from glacial rock flour, creating a surreal landscape. If weather permits, you may opt for an optional Mount John Observatory Stargazing Tour or Tekapo Hot Springs for a relaxing evening under the stars.

Hotel: 3-star Godley Hotel / Boutique Tekapo Lodge

Day 2: Tekapo – Mount Cook (100km / 1.5 hours)

After breakfast, we will travel to Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s highest peak (Aoraki/Mount Cook) and Tasman Glacier, the country’s longest glacier. Along the way, we will stop at the famous salmon farm, where you can enjoy the stunning views of Lake Pukaki, known for its vibrant blue color.

Today, you will have the chance to experience the Glacier Explorers Boat Tour (3 hours), where you will cruise through the glacial lake, navigate past floating icebergs, and witness the impressive ice formations of the Tasman Glacier. If weather conditions allow, you may also opt for a scenic glacier flight or a hike along the Hooker Valley Track, one of New Zealand’s most iconic alpine trails.

Hotel: 4-star The Hermitage Hotel

Day 3: Mount Cook – Wanaka – Arrowtown – Queenstown (280km / 3.5 hours)

After breakfast, we will travel to Wanaka, a charming town perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Visit the Puzzling World, hike Iron Mountain, or take photos of the famous Wanaka Tree standing alone in the lake. You can also enjoy various outdoor activities such as cycling, kayaking, or savoring local food and wine.

In the afternoon, we will make a brief stop at Arrowtown, a historic gold-mining town. Walk along the Arrow River and admire the well-preserved 19th-century buildings, which tell the story of early Asian miners and the gold rush era.

By evening, we will arrive in Queenstown, the "Adventure Capital" of New Zealand, nestled beside Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the stunning Southern Alps.

Hotel: 4-star Copthorne / Holiday Inn or similar

Day 4: Queenstown – Glenorchy – Queenstown

Today, we will visit Glenorchy, a breathtaking town known for its spectacular landscapes, which served as the filming location for The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia. You can explore world-class hiking trails such as the Routeburn Track or experience a horse-riding adventure through the stunning alpine scenery.

You will also have the chance to take a 20-minute scenic flight over the Humboldt Mountains, enjoying panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding wilderness.

Upon returning to Queenstown, you may choose an optional Skyline Gondola ride up Bob’s Peak for aerial views of Queenstown and enjoy dinner at the famous Stratosfare Restaurant, or try the thrilling luge ride.

Hotel: 4-star Copthorne / Holiday Inn or similar

Day 5: Queenstown Free Day

Enjoy a relaxing morning or engage in thrilling adventure activities:

• NZONE Skydive: Experience an exhilarating 15,000ft skydive over Queenstown
• Kawarau Bridge Bungy: Jump from the world’s first commercial bungy site (43m height)

In the afternoon, embark on a 3.5-hour vintage steamship cruise aboard the TSS Earnslaw, sailing across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Enjoy a farm show, feed the animals, and indulge in a delicious BBQ lunch at a panoramic lakeside restaurant.

Hotel: 3-star Brydone Hotel Oamaru or similar

Day 6: Queenstown – Milford Sound – Te Anau (400km / 5.5 hours)

Today, we will explore the majestic Milford Sound, often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World". Board a scenic cruise (1.5 hours) to admire the towering fiords, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, including seals and dolphins. You may also stand on the deck to feel the refreshing spray of Stirling Falls.

By evening, we will arrive in Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. You may opt for an optional glowworm cave tour, where thousands of bioluminescent glowworms illuminate the underground caverns.

Hotel: 4-star Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau or similar

Day 7: Te Anau – Dunedin (300km / 3.5 hours)

After breakfast, we will travel to Dunedin, also known as the "Edinburgh of New Zealand". On the way, we will stop at Moeraki Boulders, a unique natural phenomenon where large, perfectly round boulders are scattered along the beach.

In Dunedin, explore the Victorian and Edwardian architecture, including the Dunedin Railway Station, Octagon Square, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Town Hall.

For wildlife lovers, an optional ARGO Wildlife Tour (1 hour) is available. Ride an eight-wheeled all-terrain vehicle across private farmland to visit the nesting sites of yellow-eyed penguins, blue penguins, and New Zealand fur seals while enjoying stunning coastal scenery.

Hotel: 3-star Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin or similar

Day 8: Dunedin – Oamaru – Christchurch (360km / 4.5 hours)

On the way to Oamaru, we will make another stop at the Moeraki Boulders.

Upon arrival in Oamaru, take a leisurely stroll through the town’s Victorian-era streets, admiring historic buildings, Roman-style columns, and vintage shop signs that make you feel like stepping into a storybook village.

In the afternoon, we will arrive back in Christchurch, where you can opt for a visit to the International Antarctic Centre to learn about polar expeditions and experience interactive Antarctic simulations.

Hotel: 4-star Scenic Hotel Christchurch or similar

Day 9: Christchurch

Enjoy a free morning before heading to Christchurch city for sightseeing. Visit the Cathedral Square, Canterbury Museum, Avon River, and Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

• Recommended departure flights: After 3:00 PM