7 Day Southern Alps Circuit Itinerary

‘Haere Mai’ and welcome to Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city and the South Island's capital. A transfer has been arranged from the airport to your hotel.

Bordered by the Pacific Ocean, Christchurch is our "Garden City", blessed with beautiful parks and gardens right in the heart of town. English heritage buildings sit side by side with innovative post-earthquake regeneration in this vibrant place.

After settling in, why not relax with a punting trip down the Avon River? Gliding gently along in a flat-bottomed boat, you will take in Christchurch's 'must-see' historic attractions and botanic gardens away from the hustle and bustle of the streets.

Some Suggested Activities Options for Christchurch

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

Driving from the East Coast of the South Island to the West, you'll discover a huge diversity of landscapes in the space of a single day - this is what New Zealand is famous for!

Leaving our southern capital behind, travel over the vast Canterbury Plains into pure New Zealand backcountry. The views turn alpine as you snake through the ski fields on your way to cross picturesque Arthurs Pass.

The landscape turns lusher and greener as you enter the rainforest territory of the West Coast, where you'll meet the ocean and drive south along the magnificent windswept coastline.

Nestled in a rainforest clearing, Franz Josef Glacier Village lies at the heart of the Westland National Park. Welcome to one of the most diverse and beautiful areas of New Zealand.

Approximate Distance: 385 km | 239 miles  Total Driving Time: 5 hours 

Accommodation: Franz Joseph - 2 Nights

The magnificent Franz Josef Glacier is widely regarded as the gem of New Zealand’s West Coast glaciers. It tumbles down from the Southern Alps almost to the sea, its ancient icy faces contrasting spectacularly with the surrounding rainforests.

There are many different ways to admire the glacier. You can walk to the terminal face, get a birds eye view with a scenic helicopter flight, or take an exhilarating heli-hike up to the bluest ice.

Whatever you choose, get ready to experience the most spectacular glacier environment anywhere in the world.

Excursions available in and around the Franz Josef area:

Today's drive from Franz Josef to Wanaka is one of the most scenic in New Zealand, as the windswept West Coast gives way to ancient forests and mountain passes.

Behind the Gates of Haast is a lost world so spectacular and remote that UNESCO designated it a World Heritage area. There's beauty around every bend, with woodland walks and dramatic waterfalls along the way - perfect for picnic stops.

After this breathtaking drive you will arrive in the lakeside town of Wanaka, where you will relax for the next two nights.

Approximate Distance: 285 km | 177 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours

Accommodation: Wanaka - 2 Nights

A compelling mix of spectacular alpine scenery, fine food & wine and boutique shopping, the lakeside resort town of Wanaka is surrounded by some of New Zealand’s most wild and beautiful places.

The spectacular hikes, skiing, water sports and boating options here will delight anyone with a passion for the outdoors. The mountain backdrop is perfect for a for a skydive or even a romantic flight in a vintage Tiger Moth plane.

Staying around town is just as enjoyable; delight in the many delicious eateries and bustling pubs and enjoy a stroll on the lakeside walkway. Charming in all seasons, we're pretty sure you'll fall in love with Wanaka.

Enjoy one of New Zealand's top scenic drives through the spectacular Southern Alps as you travel from Wanaka to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. Home to our country's highest mountain, this icy wonderland is exquisitely beautiful.

Mt Cook Scenic Flight with Tasman Glacier Landing

This afternoon a helicopter whisks you away on a scenic flight to the Tasman Glacier. Soaring high above the Southern Alps, you'll fly up the Tasman Valley and land on New Zealand's largest glacier. With pristine snowfields all around (not to mention 600 metres (1968 ft) of ice under your feet!) it's a magical experience.

Tonight, look to the skies for another New Zealand Natural Wonder: Mount Cook National Park is an International Dark Sky Reserve, and the stargazing opportunities are simply unbeatable.

Approximate Distance: 210 km | 130 miles Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Mt Cook - 1 Night

To make the most of your time in the mountains, why not embark on one of New Zealand's finest short walks before you depart for Christchurch?

The Hooker Valley Track is a stunning 11 km (6.8 miles) trek leading to the terminal lake of the Hooker Glacier. The trail winds through the Hooker Valley in the shadow of Aoraki /Mount Cook, crossing the mighty Hooker River on old-fashioned swing bridges.
Reaching the lake, you are rewarded by unsurpassed vistas of Aoraki / Mount Cook's south face and the surrounding glaciers.

Returning to Christchurch, it's time to say "Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage! We take care of your transfer to Christchurch Airport where you will board your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional New Zealand holiday.

Approximate Distance: 330 km | 205 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 15 mins