This sample price: priced within the past 7 days for arrival on 8/1/2023, departure from Washington DC (all Airports), US. Choose your own departure city and dates.
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This is a suggested independent itinerary that you customize. Please select the best flights, hotels, trains, activities, transportation and number of nights in each destination to fit your needs.
The wild and wonderful South Island of New Zealand offers everything; you can float over tranquil meadows in a hot-air balloon, get up close to a glacier, enjoy the fruits of the southernmost wine-making region in the world, and even get a glimpse into Antarctica. The trip of your dreams!. Drive through Christchurch (one of the world’s most unique destinations, combining urban regeneration and innovation with heritage, culture and exhilarating activity), Greymouth (is the biggest hub on the West Coast in the South Island, and has the turnaround of the TranzAlpine train journey, recognised as one of the top train trips in the world), Franz Josef (is one of most publicly-accessible glaciers in New Zealand, and among the most accessible in the world – until recently, there was easy walking access directly to the glacier termini), Wanaka, Mt. Cook and Queenstown (known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown is home to a range of adventures, from the world's first and most famous bungy jumps - the Kawarau Bridge Bungy). This is a flexible package. Select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities.
This 9 night sample itinerary includes:
Flight into Christchurch and out of Queenstown
Rental Car for 10 days
Hotel for 2 nights in Christchurch
Hotel for 1 night in Greymouth
Hotel for 1 night Franz Josef
Hotel for 1 night in Wanaka
Hotel for 1 night in Mount Cook
Hotel for 3 nights Queenstown
Driving Time Christchurch - Greymouth: 3 hrs. 15 mins. approx. Greymouth - Franz Josef: 2 hrs. 20 mins. approx. Franz Josef - Wanaka: 3 hrs. approx. Wanaka - Mount Cook: 2 hrs. 30 mins. approx. Mount Cook - Queenstown: 3 hrs. 25 mins. approx.
Price history for this itinerary (past 7 days):
From Washington DC (all Airports), US for 9 nights
Wellington (8)Christchurch (28)Queenstown (25)Franz Josef (7)Greymouth (5)Wanaka (3)Mount Cook (4)
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Trip Summary
2 nights in Christchurch
The largest city in the South Island of New Zealand is the charmingChristchurch. The eclectic energetic city has something to offer everyone, bordered by the ocean and hills the activities here are endless. Hike through the magnificent mountains rangers including Mt Cook, go white water rafting, mountain biking, surfing, whale watching, you name it, Christchurch has it. Along with vibrant street art, delicious food and a unique container mall the city that was so badly affected by the earthquakes is re-building itself.
Recommended Stay:At least 3 nights Must See`s:
Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum, Christchurch Square, Hagley Park, Avon River, Christchurch Art Gallery, Quake City, Christchurch Tramway, Christchurch Gondola and so much more!
1 nights in Greymouth
The wildest side of New Zealand, the West Coast has an impressive landscape of brooding mountains, icy glaciers and surreal coastal formations. Greymouth, the largest town in this region, is a peaceful place: the residents are friendly and the city has a unique flavor of both English culture as well as some Maori. It is both rich in history and steeped in Maori heritage. South of Greymouth, nearby Shantytown offers a fascinating insight into the gold rush days of the 1880's, re-creating the atmosphere of the era.
Recommended Stay:At least 3 nights Must See`s:
Walk the Brunner Mine Site, Go Off-Roading Adventure, Take a Day Trip to Lake Brunner, Take the transalpine through Arthur`s Pass, Taste the famous beer at the original Monteith`s Brewhouse, and so much more!
1 nights in Franz Josef
Franz Josef is a small town in the West Coast region of the South Island of New Zealand. The glacier's terminal face is 3 miles from the town and its accessibility makes it a major tourist attraction and the main reason to visit Franz Josef. The scenery changes every day on the glacier because it is constantly moving and new routes are always being made. If you budget permits you, try the scenic helicopter flight with the glacier landing, it will be unforgettable. If you're into hiking, there are full day and half day options and easy/ beginner climbs to difficult/more competent climber routes. If you're lucky you'll spot a 'kea' or alpine parrot.
Recommended Stay:At least 3 nights Must See`s:
Hike to Alex Knob, Take a hike in the Tartare Tunnel and check out the glow worms, Chase waterfalls, Explore Peter`s Pool, take the challenge on Roberts Point Track, Take the Callery Gorge Hike and view the Waiho River, Kayak on Lake Mapourika, and so much more!
1 nights in Wanaka
Lake Wanaka is the perfect setting for an unhurried weekend getaway, an action packed outdoor adventure, a leisurely family holiday and a photographer`s dream. There`s no shortage of activities for all ages on land, on water or in the air. It is the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park. With its beautiful lake and mountain views, Wanaka has become a popular tourist resort.
Recommended Stay:At least 3 nights Must See`s:
Lake Wanaka, Roys Peak, Rippon Vineyard, Mou Waho Island, Cardrona Valley Ski Resort, Warbirds and Wheels Museum, Wanaka Lavender Farm, and so much more!
1 nights in Mount Cook
Located in the heart of New Zealand's Alpine country, at 3754 meters, New Zealand`s highest peak was named Mt Cook after the British explorer Captain James Cook. Although it encompasses 23 peaks over 3,000 meters high Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is very accessible. State Highway 80 leads to Aoraki/Mount Cook Village which is situated beside scenic Lake Pukaki and provides a comfortable base for alpine activities. At Mt Cook Village you can experience life at its best: enjoy safaris, boating on the glacier lakes, horse treks, fishing, scenic flights with snow landings and numerous walks and hikes.
Recommended Stay:At least 3 nights Must See`s:
Wander through Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, Go on a cruise around Tasman Glacier’s terminal lake, See the Church of the Good Shepard with your own eyes, Visit Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Center, Stargaze at the Mount John Observatory, View the mountains up close from a helicopter, Be mesmerized by the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, and so much more!
3 nights in Queenstown
Queenstown is the epicenter for adventure in New Zealand, known as the `Adventure Capital of the World`. The town is built around an inlet on Lake Wakatipu and has spectacular views of nearby mountains. Queenstown provides a wide variety of sports including skiing, jet boating, bungee jumping, mountain biking and hiking. In the winter time Queenstown is a major gathering place for snow sports with people from all over the country, and the world for that matter, traveling to ski here. Locally, Queenstown has a reputation as one of New Zealand's wine and cuisine centers and also feature a vibrant nightlife.
Recommended Stay:At least 3 nights Must See`s:
Queenstown Beach, Lake Wakatipu, Skippers Canyon, Bob`s Peak, Skyline Gondola and Luge, Queenstown Gardens, Queenstown Hill, Coronet`s Peak, Onsen Hot Pools, Otago Wine Region, Arrowtown and so much more!
Located in the South Pacific Ocean, off the southeast coast of Australia, New Zealand is made up of two spectacular islands. The North Island is well known for its beaches, islands, volcanoes, geothermal areas, and Maori heritage, while the major cities of Auckland and Wellington, are also exciting hubs of culture, cuisine and nightlife.
The South Island is famous for its dramatic landscapes, outdoor activities, and astounding wildlife. The majestic Southern Alps stretch almost the length of the island, sheltering glaciers, alpine lakes, and some of the world's best skiing.
The package rates displayed are your total price per person based on Double Occupancy and your Arrival Date and Number of Nights selected.
You can change details after selecting your travel date.
*Sample prices on display include ALL taxes & fuel surcharges... read more
close [x] * Sample prices displayed include international and domestic airline tickets as per itinerary and ALL airline-related taxes and fuel surcharges and are per person, based on double occupancy, and are dynamic in nature. Prices do not include insurance or delivery charges which are optional and customizable by the traveler. The airfare portion of the itinerary price is based on economy class, midweek departure. Prices do not include fees for carry on or checked baggage which can add additional fees per ticket on a roundtrip flight based on carrier charges. It also does not include any entrance fees or visa fees that may be charged at international airports. Some cities may charge local taxes that can only be collected by hotel at destination.
Prices were accurate at the time we posted them. Sample prices were for a specific travel date and specific departure airport, as indicated. Your prices will vary according to departure cities and travel dates. We do not control prices (airlines and hotel reservation systems do). Prices may change dynamically and at times significantly numerous times during any given day.
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Christchurch
The largest city in the South Island of New Zealand is the charmingChristchurch. The eclectic energetic city has something to offer everyone, bordered by the ocean and hills the activities here are endless. Hike through the magnificent mountains rangers including Mt Cook, go white water rafting, mountain biking, surfing, whale watching, you name it, Christchurch has it. Along with vibrant street art, delicious food and a unique container mall the city that was so badly affected by the earthquakes is re-building itself.
Recommended Stay:At least 3 nights Must See`s:
Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum, Christchurch Square, Hagley Park, Avon River, Christchurch Art Gallery, Quake City, Christchurch Tramway, Christchurch Gondola and so much more!
The wildest side of New Zealand, the West Coast has an impressive landscape of brooding mountains, icy glaciers and surreal coastal formations. Greymouth, the largest town in this region, is a peaceful place: the residents are friendly and the city has a unique flavor of both English culture as well as some Maori. It is both rich in history and steeped in Maori heritage. South of Greymouth, nearby Shantytown offers a fascinating insight into the gold rush days of the 1880's, re-creating the atmosphere of the era.
Recommended Stay:At least 3 nights Must See`s:
Walk the Brunner Mine Site, Go Off-Roading Adventure, Take a Day Trip to Lake Brunner, Take the transalpine through Arthur`s Pass, Taste the famous beer at the original Monteith`s Brewhouse, and so much more!
Franz Josef is a small town in the West Coast region of the South Island of New Zealand. The glacier's terminal face is 3 miles from the town and its accessibility makes it a major tourist attraction and the main reason to visit Franz Josef. The scenery changes every day on the glacier because it is constantly moving and new routes are always being made. If you budget permits you, try the scenic helicopter flight with the glacier landing, it will be unforgettable. If you're into hiking, there are full day and half day options and easy/ beginner climbs to difficult/more competent climber routes. If you're lucky you'll spot a 'kea' or alpine parrot.
Recommended Stay:At least 3 nights Must See`s:
Hike to Alex Knob, Take a hike in the Tartare Tunnel and check out the glow worms, Chase waterfalls, Explore Peter`s Pool, take the challenge on Roberts Point Track, Take the Callery Gorge Hike and view the Waiho River, Kayak on Lake Mapourika, and so much more!
Lake Wanaka is the perfect setting for an unhurried weekend getaway, an action packed outdoor adventure, a leisurely family holiday and a photographer`s dream. There`s no shortage of activities for all ages on land, on water or in the air. It is the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park. With its beautiful lake and mountain views, Wanaka has become a popular tourist resort.
Recommended Stay:At least 3 nights Must See`s:
Lake Wanaka, Roys Peak, Rippon Vineyard, Mou Waho Island, Cardrona Valley Ski Resort, Warbirds and Wheels Museum, Wanaka Lavender Farm, and so much more!
Located in the heart of New Zealand's Alpine country, at 3754 meters, New Zealand`s highest peak was named Mt Cook after the British explorer Captain James Cook. Although it encompasses 23 peaks over 3,000 meters high Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is very accessible. State Highway 80 leads to Aoraki/Mount Cook Village which is situated beside scenic Lake Pukaki and provides a comfortable base for alpine activities. At Mt Cook Village you can experience life at its best: enjoy safaris, boating on the glacier lakes, horse treks, fishing, scenic flights with snow landings and numerous walks and hikes.
Recommended Stay:At least 3 nights Must See`s:
Wander through Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, Go on a cruise around Tasman Glacier’s terminal lake, See the Church of the Good Shepard with your own eyes, Visit Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Center, Stargaze at the Mount John Observatory, View the mountains up close from a helicopter, Be mesmerized by the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, and so much more!
Queenstown is the epicenter for adventure in New Zealand, known as the `Adventure Capital of the World`. The town is built around an inlet on Lake Wakatipu and has spectacular views of nearby mountains. Queenstown provides a wide variety of sports including skiing, jet boating, bungee jumping, mountain biking and hiking. In the winter time Queenstown is a major gathering place for snow sports with people from all over the country, and the world for that matter, traveling to ski here. Locally, Queenstown has a reputation as one of New Zealand's wine and cuisine centers and also feature a vibrant nightlife.
Recommended Stay:At least 3 nights Must See`s:
Queenstown Beach, Lake Wakatipu, Skippers Canyon, Bob`s Peak, Skyline Gondola and Luge, Queenstown Gardens, Queenstown Hill, Coronet`s Peak, Onsen Hot Pools, Otago Wine Region, Arrowtown and so much more!
From Washington DC (all Airports), US for 9 nights
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