New Zealand: Southern Horizons - Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown, Franz Joseph

16 Days | 13 Nights

Price per person from $8,969pp *Based on double occupancy
Air/Land Inclusive

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Experience New Zealand’s stunning natural beauty and rich culture on this immersive 14-day escape from Wellington to the South Island. Highlights include whale watching in Kaikōura, glacier encounters, and a breathtaking fly-cruise-fly over Milford Sound.

  • Round-trip airfare from Los Angeles to Wellington, returning from Christchurch
  • 13 Nights Superior/Deluxe Accommodation
  • 9 Days Intermediate Car Hire
  • 9 Experiences including Whale Watching, Glacier Boat Cruise and Walk, Akaroa Tour and Harbour Cruise and more
WellingtonNZ

WellingtonNZ

Kaikoura Dolphins, c. William Patino

Kaikoura Dolphins, c. William Patino

Description

Discover the ultimate New Zealand escape with this 13-night vacation that blends cultural immersion, scenic travel, and luxurious comfort from Wellington to Christchurch. Begin your journey with round-trip airfare on Fiji Airways from Los Angeles to Wellington, where you’ll be met with a private transfer to your boutique art-filled stay at QT Wellington. Dive into the capital’s vibrant food scene with the Capital Bites Tour, ride the charming Wellington Cable Car, enjoy a guided tour at Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum and explore Weta Workshop.

Set sail across the Cook Strait with a ferry to Picton, then embark on a scenic self-drive adventure with 9 days of car hire. Your first stop: Kaikōura, home of the giants of the sea. Enjoy a magical Whale Watching Cruise before continuing to Christchurch for a relaxing night. Journey next to Aoraki Mt Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain, where a Glacier Boat Cruise brings you face-to-face with ancient icebergs.

In Queenstown, settle in for three nights of alpine charm at the Millennium Hotel. The highlight: a scenic fly-cruise-fly to Milford Sound, a breathtaking aerial and water journey. From there, travel to Franz Josef for a luxurious rainforest stay and a guided glacier encounter—complete with a cruise and rainforest walk. Then board the iconic TranzAlpine Rail to Christchurch in Scenic Plus class.

Wrap up with two nights in Christchurch, including a full-day Akaroa tour, harbor cruise, and lunch in this charming French-influenced village. With private transfers, world-class experiences, and comfortable accommodations throughout, this vacation offers the perfect balance of adventure and indulgence in Aotearoa.

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Price

Travel Dates

Price*
*Based on double occupancy
Jun 26, 2026 - Jul 26, 2026 from $9,169pp *
Jul 27, 2026 - Aug 31, 2026 from $8,999pp *
Sep 1, 2026 - Sep 30, 2026 from $8,969pp *
Oct 1, 2026 - Dec 4, 2026 from $9,259pp *

*Prices are quoted in USD and are ‘from’, per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplements apply. Valid for departures July 27 - August 31, 2026 Advertised pricing reflects low season pricing. Seasonal surcharges apply for travel outside this season. Must be booked by July 31, 2026. Black-out dates may apply. Prices are current at time of posting (5/5/2026) and may differ when you book your travel and are not guaranteed until full payment is received and processed, due to seasonal surcharges and currency fluctuations. All pricing is strictly subject to availability. All prices, itineraries and routing are subject to change without notice. Please call for our current prices. CA CST: 2076233-40 | WA ID: 601 684 531 | PC-1282498.

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Inclusions

  • Round-trip airfare on Fiji Airways from Los Angeles to Wellington, returning from Christchurch
  • Private arrival transfer Wellington Airport to Hotel
  • 3-nights Wellington, QT Wellington, QT Gallery King Room
    • Capital Bites Tour
    • Wellington Cable Car Admission
    • Te Papa Highlights Tour
    • Weta Workshop Experiences Guided Tour with transfers
  • One-way Ferry from Wellington to Picton
  • 9-days Intermediate Car Hire including unlimited mileage
  • 1-night Kaikoura, Sudima Kaikoura, Deluxe King
    • Whale Watching Cruise
  • 1-night Christchurch, Sudima Christchurch City, King Room
  • 1-night Mount Cook, Hermitage Aoraki Mt Cook, Premium Plus Room
    • Glacier Boat Cruise & Walk
  • 3-nights Queenstown, Millennium Hotel Queenstown, Superior Room
    • Milford Sound Fly/Nature Cruise/Fly
  • 2-nights Franz Josef, Te Waonui Forest Retreat, Deluxe Room including Dinner
    • Franz Josef Glacier Encounter
    • Cruise and Rainforest Walk
  • One-way TranzAlpine Rail from Greymouth to Christchurch – Scenic Plus
  • Private arrival transfer Christchurch Rail Station to Hotel
  • 2-nights Christchurch, Sudima Christchurch City, King Room
    • Full-day Akaroa Day tour including Harbor Cruise and Lunch
  • Private departure transfer Christchurch Hotel to Airport
  • Breakfast daily
  • US/Foreign taxes and fees including September 11 Security Fee

Exclusions

  • Car Rental excludes additional insurances, petrol, bond, additional drivers (NZ$5+GST per day up to a maximum of NZ$25 +GST for the entire length of rental), Standard Insurance Excess (payable direct) and miscellaneous charges
  • New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) NZ$17 on free App or NZ$23 if completed online PLUS the IVL NZ$100. Payable on application.

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Map

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Itinerary

  • Plane Wing 102892839 m normal none WEB

    Day 1 - Depart USA

    This evening, make your way to Los Angeles Airport for your overnight flight to Nadi and connecting flight to Wellington.

  • Clock 205297419 m normal noneWEB

    Day 2 - International Date Line

    During your flight, you will cross the International Date Line.

  • Wellington Cable Car from Kelburn Lookout

    Day 3 - Arrive Wellington

    On arrival in Wellington, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a 3-night stay.

    The remainder of your day is free to explore and perhaps utilize your ticket on the Wellington Cable Car. Every 10 minutes, the bright red Wellington Cable Car departs from Lambton Quay and makes its way up into the hills of Kelburn. The 612-meter journey travels through three tunnels and over three bridges. Once you’ve reached the top you’ll have risen 120 meters above sea level. The views of the city below and harbor and hills beyond are, predictably, spectacular.

    • QT Wellington  (Superior)
  • Scenic Cuba Street Bucket Fountain WellingtonNZ Credit Johnny Hendrikus R

    Day 4 - Wellington (B)

    Wellington isn’t just New Zealand’s political capital - it’s a culinary hotspot, known for everything from fine dining to hidden foodie gems.

    On this three-hour walking tour, you’ll explore vibrant neighborhoods like Cuba Street, the Waterfront, Willis Street, and Lambton Quay, sampling local flavors at a Māori waterfront eatery, a beloved Italian pizzeria, award-winning chocolate makers, a trendy food alley, and one of the city’s top restaurants. It’s the perfect blend of food, culture, and local character - ideal for getting your bearings or making the most of a short stay.

    • QT Wellington  (Superior)
  • Wellington Te Papa Museum Exterior c.Wellington Tourism

    Day 5 - Wellington (B)

    This morning, enjoy a 60-minute guided introduction to the highlights of Te Papa’s taonga—the treasured cultural artifacts of the Māori people. This small group tour with an expert guide offers deeper insight and a richer understanding of Aotearoa’s unique heritage. 

    Late, step inside the walls of WETA, the multi Academy Award winning company whose artists and crafts people helped bring to life The Lord of the Rings, Avatar, The Adventures of Tintin, District 9, King Kong and The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. Join hosts in the newly opened Window into Workshop exhibition space. Filled with props, models and weaponry, as well as explanations of some of the processes used to create these amazing items, this guided tour offer a behind the scenes glimpse into Weta Workshop and the impressive work created within.

    • QT Wellington  (Superior)
  • Dolphins swimming in kaikoura 128638 c William Patino WEB

    Day 6 - Wellington - Kaikoura (B)

    This morning, head to the Interislander Ferry terminal for a scenic cruise across the Cook Strait and through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds to Picton. Sit back, relax, and take in the stunning coastal and island views as you cross from the North Island to the South. Upon arrival in Picton, collect your rental vehicle and begin your picturesque drive south along the Pacific Coast to Kaikōura. This coastal journey offers sweeping ocean views, rugged cliffs, and the chance to spot native wildlife along the way—setting the perfect tone for your stay in this charming seaside town known for its marine life encounters.

    • Sudima Kaikoura  (Superior)
  • Christchurch 29296 hagley park c.Christchurch Tourism

    Day 7 - Kaikoura - Christchurch (B)

    Join Whale Watch Kaikōura for an unforgettable marine adventure along New Zealand’s South Island coast. Renowned for its year-round population of giant sperm whales, Kaikōura is one of the few places globally where these majestic creatures can be observed so close to shore. Tours are conducted on purpose-built catamarans equipped with spacious viewing decks and hydrophones, allowing passengers to listen to the whales' underwater communications. Beyond sperm whales, sightings often include dusky dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, and a variety of seabirds.

    After your whale watching cruise, depart Kaikōura and continue your journey south along the scenic coastline. Enjoy a relaxed drive to Christchurch, passing rolling farmland and charming coastal towns along the way.

    • Sudima Christchurch City  (Deluxe)
  • Mt Cook

    Day 8 - Christchurch - Mt Cook (B)

    Depart Christchurch and journey southwest through the heart of New Zealand’s South Island toward the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook. The drive offers ever-changing scenery—from the flat Canterbury Plains to the rolling hills of the Mackenzie Country, dotted with sheep farms and turquoise glacial lakes. Highlights along the way include the vibrant blue waters of Lake Tekapo and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, a perfect spot for a photo stop. As you approach Mount Cook National Park, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with snow-capped peaks and alpine vistas leading you into one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking destinations.

    • Hermitage Aoraki Mount Cook  (Superior)
  • Glacier Explorer Mt Cook R

    Day 9 - Mt Cook - Queenstown (B)

    The Glacier Explorers 2.5-hour experience offers a truly unique way to encounter the Tasman Glacier—New Zealand’s largest glacier—up close. After a refreshing 30-minute walk to the glacier’s terminal lake, you’ll board a stable boat with an expert guide to explore the surreal, iceberg-dotted waters. Imagine drifting past towering ice formations that began their journey as snow nearly 300 years ago, now glistening and melting into the lake. Over the course of an hour, your guide will share the fascinating history of the glacier, the lake, and the surrounding Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, bringing the landscape to life. All of this unfolds against a breathtaking backdrop of New Zealand’s highest and most dramatic peaks, including Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman—an unforgettable adventure in one of the world’s most awe-inspiring alpine environments.

    After your glacier adventure, continue your journey through the stunning Southern Alps, passing turquoise lakes and sweeping high country landscapes. The drive to Queenstown is one of New Zealand’s most scenic, leading you to the adventure capital nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

    • Millennium Queenstown  (Superior)
  • Air Milford Milford Sound Aircraft

    Day 10 - Queenstown (B)

    Today, experience the stunning Milford Sound! After check-in, your pilot will brief you on the scenic 35-minute flight to Milford Sound, showcasing highlights like Skippers Canyon, the Paradise region, and Donne Glacier. Upon arrival, you’ll board the Spirit of Milford for a nature cruise through the fiord, with onboard guides and capped passenger numbers ensuring a more personal experience. After exploring waterfalls, wildlife, and dramatic cliffs, enjoy a stunning return flight over alpine lakes and the majestic Sutherland Falls, concluding your unforgettable five-hour adventure back in Queenstown.

    • Millennium Queenstown  (Superior)
  • Kjet Queenstown

    Day 11 - Queenstown (B)

    Today is free to explore Queenstown at your leisure.

    • Millennium Queenstown  (Superior)
  • Franz Josef Glacier credit Romina Waller

    Day 12 - Queenstown - Franz Josef (B,D)

    Departing Queenstown, your journey to Franz Josef takes you on one of New Zealand’s most spectacular drives. Winding through the dramatic landscapes of the Southern Alps, you’ll pass crystal-clear lakes, rugged mountain ranges, and lush rainforests. Highlights along the way include the charming town of Wanaka, the stunning Haast Pass with its waterfalls and alpine views, and the wild West Coast, where the scenery shifts to dense native bush and rocky river valleys. This ever-changing landscape creates a breathtaking backdrop for your road trip, ultimately leading you to the glacier town of Franz Josef—an unforgettable destination nestled in the heart of a World Heritage area.

    • Te Waonui Forest Retreat  (Deluxe)
  • Franz Josef Glacier Guides 30 credit Geoff Marks

    Day 13 - Franz Josef (B,D)

    Today, experience the best of both worlds with an unforgettable Franz Josef Glacier Encounter. Your adventure begins with a breathtaking helicopter flight from Franz Josef, soaring above lush native rainforest, the rugged West Coast shoreline, and the vast expanse of the Southern Alps. As you fly toward the glacier’s neve, enjoy panoramic views stretching from the Tasman Sea to the towering peaks. You'll land high on the icefall at approximately 1,300 meters, where you’ll step onto the ancient glacier itself—an awe-inspiring landscape carved over thousands of years. With exclusive access provided by Franz Josef Glacier Guides, your time on the ice includes incredible photo opportunities and fascinating insights into the glacier’s history and cultural significance, creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience in one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders.

    This afternoon, embark on a scenic cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Mapourika, followed by an exclusive guided walk through a pristine rainforest trail within the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary. Accessible only by boat, this hidden gem feels like stepping into a Jurassic world, where ancient trees, rich native bush, and abundant birdlife—including white herons and native species—surround you. The custom-built trail, carefully crafted by your skipper Dale and his team, offers a low-impact way to experience the untouched beauty of the West Coast rainforest, making this cruise and nature walk a truly immersive and unforgettable part of your Franz Josef adventure.

    • Te Waonui Forest Retreat  (Deluxe)
  • TranzAlpine passing Lake Sarah in winter RP179

    Day 14 - Franz Josef - Greymouth - Christchurch (B)

    This morning, depart Franz Josef and enjoy a scenic drive north along the rugged West Coast to Greymouth. The route takes you through lush rainforest, alongside wild coastlines, and past charming small towns—offering a final taste of the region’s natural beauty. Upon arrival in Greymouth, return your rental vehicle and board the iconic TranzAlpine train, one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. As you cross the Southern Alps, marvel at dramatic gorges, alpine peaks, and sweeping Canterbury Plains before arriving in Christchurch. On arrival, a private transfer will take you to your hotel, where you'll settle in for a relaxing two-night stay.

    • Sudima Christchurch City  (Deluxe)
  • Akaroa

    Day 15 - Christchurch (B,L)

    Visit the beautiful unspoilt old French whaling depot of Akaroa. A charming small township nestled in an inner harbour bay of Akaroa Harbour on Banks Peninsula.

    The township contains a host of historic buildings, craft and gift shops together with a multitude of idyllic photo opportunities. Enjoy lunch before boarding a cruise on Akaroa Harbour. On your return journey to Christchurch a stop will be made at the Barry’s Bay Cheese factory, where you will get to sample some fine New Zealand cheese

    • Sudima Christchurch City  (Deluxe)
  • Plane Wing 102892839 m normal none WEB

    Day 16 - Depart Christchurch (B)

    Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before transferring to Christchurch Airport for your return flight to Los Angeles via Nadi.


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