The Southern Drift
The Southern Drift
$8995
The Southern Drift
12 Days Starting and ending in Christchurch, New Zealand
Visiting: Christchurch, Franz Josef, Franz Josef Glacier, Wānaka, Queenstown, Doubtful Sound, Dunedin
Tour operator:
Tour code:
LGSIFM25
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
10 - 18
Age range:
5-99
Special diets catered:
Please advise request
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Eco Conscious, Foodie and Wine Tours, Rail Tours, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Experience the best of the South Island of New Zealand on this 12-day guided tour. Travel on the Tranzalpine, one of the great train journeys of the world to the wild West Coast. Discover the Franz Josef Glacier on a guided walk with local experts. Journey along the Haast River in an enclosed jet boat, then travel to the picturesque mining village of Arrowtown. Take time to explore the charming town of Queenstown: here, you can choose a guided e-bike tour or join a boutique wine tour, then dine on exceptional fare at one of its most exclusive restaurants. Journey through Fiordland National Park to Milford Sound, where you’ll enjoy a half-day guided walk along the famous Milford Track — the finest walk in the world. Travel to the Edinburgh of the south, Dunedin, to sample craft gin at Dunedin Craft Distillers. End your adventure in Christchurch, where you will toast to your travels during a celebration dinner.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Christchurch
Location: Christchurch
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Montreal, Christchurch.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your New Zealand luxury tour begins by private car to your boutique hotel located in the heart of Christchurch and just minutes from North Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens. Pay a visit to the blooms at the Botanic Gardens or ride the Christchurch Tram before meeting your Travel Concierge where you’ll raise a glass to a grand journey.
Day 2: Christchurch To Franz Josef
Location: Franz Josef
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Franz Josef.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Embark on one of the world's great scenic railway journeys aboard the TranzAlpine train to the small village of Arthur's Pass. Along your journey, view the stunning scenery just outside your massive windows as you traverse the Canterbury Plains through the dramatic Southern Alps passing the ice fed Waimakariri River and native beech forest. From Arthur's Pass continue by coach to the charming town of Hokitika, the cultural centre of the West Coast. You will meet a local expert for a guided history walk in historic Holkitika. In the the town of Franz Josef, your eco friendly retreat nestled in the wilderness welcomes with natural ambience paired with impeccable luxury, inviting you to enjoy the view from your private balcony.
Day 3: The Mighty Franz Josef Glacier
Location: Franz Josef Glacier
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Franz Josef.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Immerse yourself in the grand natural surroundings traversing the brilliant blue ice and deep crevasses of Franz Josef Glacier on a valley walk with a Local Expert. Learn about this uniquely accessible glacier with only a seven-mile descent from the Southern Alps and less than 1,000 feet above sea level. Take in its majesty surrounded by distant rainforest, mountain tops, waterfalls and the upper glacier. Further your discovery of Franz Josef village luxuriating in panoramic viewpoints, taking a bike ride to the nearby beach where the Waiho river meets the Tasman Sea, or treating yourself to a massage at your hotel’s on-site Amaia Luxury Spa for a Lomi-Lomi or Hot Stone Massage.
Day 4: Travel From Franz Josef To Wānaka
Location: Wānaka
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Edgewater Wānaka Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Cruise down the Haast River in a purpose-built, fully enclosed jet boat past snow-capped mountains contrasting with sub-tropical, untouched rainforest basking in the beauty of the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area. Your guide is eager to share their expert knowledge of this glacial valley as the sunlight pours across the wilderness or the waterfalls tumble down in a light, misty rain. Experience fairy-tale lavender fields. Your destination is your hotel in Wānaka: sitting at the edge of Lake Wānaka and designed to flow with the seasons, Edgewater is a place you’ll find nature at your own pace.
Day 5: Wānaka
Location: Wānaka
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Edgewater Wānaka Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Be awed at the natural beauty around you while relaxing on a lake cruise. Complete your bonding-with-nature experience on an afternoon nature walk.
Day 6: Wanaka To Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Rees Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit Highlands Motorsport Museum and come face to face with the state-of-the-art machines. Meet Mrs Jones Orchard, a traditional fruit stall owner, and indulge in real fruit ice-cream and stone fruit. Enjoy lunch and experience exclusive wine tasting in Gibbston Valley of the Vines at Kinross. Visit the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown.
Day 7: Queenstown
Location: Queenstown
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: The Rees Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Take in the surrounding landscape on a Lake Wakatipu scenic cruise aboard TSS Earnslaw and visit Walter Peak High Country farm for an Eco Experience - an idyllic place to spend a few peaceful hours. Or, choose a guided e-bike scenic ride along the lake. Enjoy dinner tonight at local restaurant The Bathhouse, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
Day 8: Queenstown To Doubtful Sound (Overnight Cruise)
Location: Doubtful Sound
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Fiordland Navigator
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel by road to Manapouri, then by Catamaran and coach to Doubtful Sound to meet the Fiordland Navigator. Doubtful Sound is a stunning fiord with ancient valleys, waterfalls and wildlife. Your overnight nature cruise comes complete with an onboard naturalist, activities and lectures, not to mention delicious locally sourced cuisine.
Day 9: Doubtful Sound To Dunedin
Location: Dunedin
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Distinction Dunedin Hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Upon disembarking the cruise, continue by road to Dunedin, stopping for lunch at Te Anau. In Dunedin, your heritage hotel welcomes you with a cosy atmosphere in the city centre. Dine on favourites such as surf and turf, braised lamb, catch of the day, or other modern twists on traditional local dishes at Parcels Restaurant.
Day 10: Distillery Tour And Dunedin At Leisure
Location: Dunedin
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Distinction Dunedin Hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a relaxed start this morning before taking a guided tour at Dunedin Craft Distillers, the first distillery in Aotearoa New Zealand and one of only a handful worldwide, to produce botanical spirits from surplus bread and bakery products that would otherwise go to landfill. Discover on this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, how owners, Jenny McDonald and Sue Stockwell do it in a ‘Bread to Bottle Tour’ which takes you through the process used to turn bread into spirits. Venture just next door for a special Chocolate tasting journey at OCHO Chocolate covering the history of chocolate in Dunedin, OCHO's genesis, how 'real' chocolate is made and a 10-sample bean to bar tasting. Relax or continue exploring Dunedin as you wish. Perhaps take a wildlife cruise of the Otago Peninsula or visit the iconic Larnach Castle.
Day 11: Dunedin To Christchurch
Location: Christchurch
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Montreal, Christchurch.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel up the coast through the towns of Oamaru and Timaru to Christchurch to uncover the city’s highlights on a fascinating sightseeing tour. On arrival in Christchurch embark on a sightseeing tour of the city to learn about its rebirth after the devastating 2011 earthquake. View historic landmarks including Canterbury Museum built in the late 1800s and New Regent Street’s Spanish Mission architectural style and quirky boutiques. Sample the best of Christchurch over dinner at Montreal Bar and Restaurant, highlighting seasonal ingredients with sophistication.
Day 12: Farewell From Christchurch
Location: Christchurch
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bid farewell to your fellow travellers after breakfast, as your journey comes to an end with a transfer to Christchurch International Airport for your onward flight.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is included at all hotels during the tour.
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Meals
Enjoy breakfast every morning, 6 dinners, 1 lunch with wine, and 1 lunch throughout your journey.
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Transfers
Transfers are included on your journey start and end dates, and where additional accommodation has been booked in advance through Luxury Gold.
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Guided Tours
In select destinations, our network of Local Expert Guides will illuminate your journey on a deeper level.
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Hotel Taxes and Tips
Hotel taxes, porterage and tips, as well as tips for included dining experiences, are included.
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Wi-Fi
Enjoy complimentary hotel Wi-Fi. And, on select coaches, onboard Wi-Fi may also be available.
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Travel Concierge
Enjoy seamless personal assistance throughout your journey. From securing exclusive reservations, to organising transportation, your Travel Concierge ensures every aspect of your travel is tailored to your tastes and preferences.
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Transport
Travel in style with a private car, the scenic TranzAlpine train, and a coach. Enjoy a jet boat cruise on the Haast River, a lake cruise in Wanaka, and a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu. Experience an overnight nature cruise on Doubtful Sound.
What's Not Included
International TravelInternational travel to and from New Zealand is not included.
Dining Summary
11 Breakfast (B)6 Dinner (D)1 Lunch with Wine (L)1 Lunch (L)
Additional Included Highlights
Enjoy seamless personal assistance throughout your journey. From securing exclusive reservations, to organising transportation, your Travel Concierge ensures every aspect of your travel is tailored to your tastes and preferences.In select destinations, our network of Local Expert Guides will illuminate your journey on a deeper level.Included at all hotels.Hotel taxes, porterage and tips, as well as tips for included dining experiences, are included.Enjoy breakfast every morning, and an array of incredible dining options throughout your journey, infused with discovery and adventure.On days where a Relaxed Start (RS) is indicated, you can select to indulge in breakfast in bed.?Enjoy complimentary hotel Wi-Fi. And, on select coaches, onboard Wi-Fi may also be available.Transfers are included on your journey start and end dates, and where additional accommodation has been booked in advance through Luxury Gold. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city as the itinerary, may be requested.
Magnificent Stays
Franz Josef: Surrounded by pristine wilderness, Te Waonui Forest Retreat is a five-star haven of relaxation and impeccable luxury. With a natural, earthy ambience and attentive service, there’s no better place to take a deep breath and simply unwind.
Passport Moments
Christchurch: Experience the striking natural landscape of the South Island as you travel on the TranzAlpine. Famous as one of the world’s great train journeys, you can enjoy the remarkable scenery from the ice-fed Waimakariri River to the magnificent Canterbury Plains.Hokitika: Visit the coastal town of Hokitika, where you’ll find stunning scenery and a cool, arty vibe. Join a Local Expert for a Hokitika History Walk and hear about the area's rich history - from the discovery of New Zealand jade through the many tales from the gold rush in the 1860s.Franz Josef: Experience the mighty natural wonder of the Franz Josef Glacier and what the ice age must have felt like. The sheer enormity of these giant ice puzzles will leave you spellbound as you explore the area with your Local Expert.Makarora: Visit Makarora, a great base point to explore the beauty of the Southern Alps. Your Travel Concierge will take you on an orientation of the town where you can admire remarkable scenery and hear more about its history.Haast River: Enjoy the unique blend of thrilling speed and calm comfort on a Haast River jet boat safari. Zip past untouched forests and snow-capped mountains in your fully enclosed cabin while you hear beguiling tales of the wilderness communities of the valley.Lake Wanaka: Wanaka Lavender Farm is just a few minutes drive from Wanaka, where you can experience 20 acres of beautiful lavender fields. Enjoy a walk through the flowers, meet our friendly farm animals, play a garden game, unwind over a cup of herbal tea & indulge in our lavender ice-creams. Sample our Lakes Honey and the many Wanaka Lavender Farm products that are lovingly made on site.Cromwell: Visit the Highlands National Motorsport Museum and come face to face with top-of-the-line machines. Since you only ever see them in the movies or on TV, there’s just something about being in the same room with these rare special cars that gets everyone buzzing.Gibbston Valley: Enjoy an exclusive wine tasting in Gibbston Valley Wine Region at Kinross, followed by lunch.Lake Wanaka: Take a leisurely cruise out to Stevensons Arm, home to Mount Burke high country sheep station. Verdant green pastures precede Mount Gold which rises majestically into the Northern skyline. On Stevensons Island take a short hike with your guide and enjoy complimentary tea, coffee and cookies back onboard.Fiordland National Park: Give in to the wilderness, and escape to the secluded Patea Doubtful Sound, located in the depths of the Fiordland National Park. Unlike a day cruise, this unique overnight experience completely immerses you in nature. Wake up feeling connected, in harmony, and full of wonder for Aotearoa’s native flora and fauna.
Personalise your day
Lake Wakatipu: Fall in love with nature and immerse yourself in a unique experience where conservation, horticulture, and eco-tourism meet. The Walter Peak Eco Experience allows you to learn more about New Zealand conservation and contribute to biodiversity.Queenstown: Ride the scenic Lake trail, visit hidden gems of the area and learn local history.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with a private car, the scenic TranzAlpine train, and a coach. Enjoy a jet boat cruise on the Haast River, a lake cruise in Wanaka, and a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu. Experience an overnight nature cruise on Doubtful Sound.
Accommodation
Accommodation is included at all hotels during the tour, featuring stays at luxurious locations such as Hotel Montreal in Christchurch, Te Waonui Forest Retreat in Franz Josef, Edgewater Wanaka Hotel, The Rees Hotel in Queenstown, and Distinction Dunedin Hotel, ensuring comfort and relaxation throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experience does the Walter Peak Eco Experience offer?
The Walter Peak Eco Experience allows you to immerse yourself in a unique experience where conservation, horticulture, and eco-tourism meet. It provides an opportunity to learn more about New Zealand conservation and contribute to biodiversity.
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What can I expect from the 'Bread to Bottle Tour' in Dunedin?
The 'Bread to Bottle Tour' at Dunedin Craft Distillers takes you through the process of turning surplus bread and bakery products into botanical spirits, showcasing an effort to reduce landfill waste. This tour is part of the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience.
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What dining experiences are included in Queenstown?
In Queenstown, you can enjoy dinner at the majestic waterfront Bathhouse, where you can try locally grown, foraged, and farmed produce, along with local and international wines, against the spectacular lakefront backdrop of Lake Wakatipu.
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What activities are available during the overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound?
During the overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound, you can enjoy activities and lectures provided by an onboard naturalist, as well as delicious locally sourced cuisine.
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What is special about the TranzAlpine train journey?
The TranzAlpine train journey is one of the world's great scenic railway journeys, offering stunning views as you traverse the Canterbury Plains through the dramatic Southern Alps, passing the ice-fed Waimakariri River and native beech forest.
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What can I do in Franz Josef village?
In Franz Josef village, you can immerse yourself in the natural surroundings by traversing the Franz Josef Glacier on a valley walk, enjoy panoramic viewpoints, take a bike ride to the nearby beach, or treat yourself to a massage at the hotel's Amaia Luxury Spa.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Absolutely! We are very selective in who we work with and choose to only use hotels that take the health and well-being of our guests as seriously as we do and agree to meet expected guidelines and specifications. We only work with establishments that we are confident will consistently adhere to our standards.
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Which countries does Luxury Gold visit?
We offer incredible luxury trips in Europe, North America, South America, Hawaii, South-East Asia, the Indian sub-continent (including India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka), Australia and New Zealand.
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What other modes of transport does Luxury Gold use?
A Luxury Gold tour will include touring on high-speed trains, alpine cable cars, hydrofoils, river cruisers and horse-drawn carriages, in addition to our high-deck luxury coaches with extra legroom.
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Who travels with Luxury Gold?
We are delighted to welcome guests who have a shared love of travel, adventure, entertainment and exploration. A mix of solo travellers, couples, and groups of friends and family join us from all over the English-speaking world.
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What is the role of the Well-Being Director?
Working closely together with your Travelling Concierge, the Well-Being Director* will help make sure all necessary protocols are followed to ensure the health and wellbeing of all our guests. This includes our enhanced screening and hygiene protocols, complying with distancing and other requirements set by government authorities. They are also there to support our guests & answer any questions.
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Low Deposit
Luxury Gold requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of luxury gold charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions