Lakes and Mountains of the South Island

Christchurch isn’t just a city—it’s a comeback story. Once a quietly traditional city, this vibrant destination now blends historic charm with bold innovation. After rising gracefully from devastating earthquakes, Christchurch has transformed into a hub of creativity, green spaces, and unforgettable adventures. Stroll through the award-winning Botanic Gardens, hop on a heritage tram, or explore street art that turns the city into an open-air gallery. The Avon River winds gently through town, perfect for a peaceful punt ride or a riverside coffee. Nature lovers are just a short drive from beaches, alpine hikes, and the breathtaking Southern Alps, whereas foodies will fall in love with local flavours served up in stylish cafes and buzzing markets. Christchurch isn’t just the gateway to the South Island, it’s a destination in its own right!

The journey from Christchurch to Franz Josef Glacier takes you across the heart of the South Island, climbing through the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass. The landscape shifts dramatically—from Canterbury’s wide plains to alpine peaks, then down onto the rugged West Coast and into lush rainforest. It’s one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives, full of sharp contrasts and incredible views.

There are few places on earth like Franz Josef Glacier, an ancient ice flow that slowly descends the mountains into temperate rain forest. Whether you’re exploring ice caves on a guided walk or taking in the scale of this world heritage site from a scenic helicopter ride, the experience is both awe-inspiring and uniquely accessible. Surrounded by native rainforest the village of Franz Josef (also named after an Austrian emperor) has a relaxed Alpine feel and makes a cosy base to explore from. Visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre and you may spot a rare kiwi, or for the ultimate wind down relax in the town’s hot pools. Nearby Lake Mapourika is just a short drive from Franz Josef and offers scenic boat trips set to a background of some of New Zealand’s most incredible scenery.

Set against a stunning alpine backdrop and wrapped around the clear blue waters of Lake Wānaka, this lakeside town is a haven for travellers who crave beauty, calm, and just a touch of adventure. Whether you’re sipping coffee with a lake view, strolling along the shoreline, or setting off on a gentle hike, Wānaka moves at a pace that lets you savour the moment. Take a scenic drive to the Cardrona Valley, cruise the lake to the remote and predator-free Mou Waho Island, or explore walking trails like Mt. Iron for panoramic views without the strain. With boutique wineries, art galleries, cosy eateries, and warm-hearted locals, Wānaka offers the perfect balance of natural wonder and small-town charm.

Make the short drive between Wanaka and Queenstown today crossing the stunning Cardrona Pass.

Queenstown may be known as New Zealand’s adventure capital, but there’s far more here than bungee jumps and jet boats. For the mature traveller with a curious spirit, it offers the perfect blend of natural wonder, refined experiences, and just the right touch of adventure.

Cruise across the glassy waters of Lake Wakatipu aboard the vintage TSS Earnslaw, or take the Skyline Gondola to panoramic views that will leave you breathless (in the best way). Feeling bold? Try a gentle jet boat ride through the spectacular Dart River valley—thrilling, but perfectly manageable. Scenic helicopter flights, lake kayaking, and e-bike trails offer active ways to explore without pushing the limits.

Wander through historic Arrowtown, enjoy a wine tasting among the vines of Gibbston Valley, or treat yourself to a gourmet meal with a view of the Remarkables.

Enjoy uninterrupted views of the mountain scenery without having to self-drive to Milford Sound from Queenstown in a glass-roofed coach.

Milford Sound, located in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island, is a breathtaking fiord renowned for its dramatic scenery. Towering Mitre Peak rises above lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls such as Stirling and Bowen Falls, which tumble down the fiord’s steep cliffs. The area teems with wildlife, including fur seals, penguins, and dolphins. Visitors can explore the unique marine ecosystem at the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory, where rare black coral and other sea life can be seen.

Along the way you will make shirt stops in Te Anau, The Mirror Lakes and Monkey Creek.

Return to Queenstown in time for dinner.

Travel across the Lindis Pass to Mount Cook Village.

Towering above the Southern Alps is New Zealand’s highest mountain, and the star of the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Home to New Zealand’s largest glaciers and its only International Dark Sky Reserve, this World Heritage Site offers unrivalled scenery and adventure. The Hooker Valley Track is one of the most rewarding short hikes in the country— offering an easy, well-maintained trail that crosses swing bridges, skirts glacial rivers, and ends with an unforgettable view of Mount Cook reflected in a milky-blue lake. For a closer look at the icy heart of the region, head to the Tasman Glacier, the longest glacier in New Zealand. You can take a boat ride across the glacial lake, floating past ancient icebergs, or lift off on a helicopter for a high-altitude glacier landing—an experience that brings the scale and grandeur of the Southern Alps into full view. Before travelling on we recommend a visit to The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. This fascinating museum tells the story of the legendary mountaineer who trained here before conquering Everest.

Travel past the shores of Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo on your journey to Christchurch. We recommend a photo stop at the iconic church of The Good Shepherd.

The evening is yours to spend at leisure in Christchurch.