Southern Explorer Southbound 2011 - 12

Itinerary

DAY 1 CHRISTCHURCH TO LAKE OHAU

Starting in Christchurch, we travel across the Canterbury plains to discover what it’s like to run a sheep farm (at the Kiwi Farm Experience). We stop for lunch at Lake Takapo, with an optional 40 minute flight available (well worth it if you can afford). We continue onto Lake Pukaki for some fabulous photos of Mt Cook, before finishing up on the shores of Lake Ohau. (B, Morning Tea, D)

DAY 2 LAKE OHAU TO FIORDLAND EXPERIENCE

Start with a drive through Cromwell district and near the Kawarau river – typical Lord of the Rings territory. Stopping in Te Anau, we’ll take time to admire the glacial Mirror Lake, before pressing on. Tonight we’ll experience the fiords up close, with an overnight cruise. We may spot seals and dolphins if we’re lucky! (B, D)

DAY 3 FIORDLAND TO QUEENSTOWN

We’ll continue the cruise this morning, before returning to wharf and setting off for the adrenalin capital of the Southern Hemisphere, Queenstown! Combine spectacular scenery with heart-racing adventures and you’re still nowhere near it. Take some free time this afternoon to explore, before we reconvene for dinner and a chance to check out the nightlife! (B, D)

DAY 4 QUEENSTOWN 

With the day ahead of you, prepare to up the excitement levels! Options include the traditional bungee jump, zooming around canyons with the Shotover Jet, or more leisurely pursuits such as horse or mountain bike riding. Then again, perhaps you’d like to admire all from above whilst aboard the skyline gondola? The choice is yours. (B)

DAY 5 QUEENSTOWN TO FOX GLACIER 

Your last chance for adventure awaits this morning, before we head out past Lakes Hawea and Wanaka to Makarora. Take in the gorgeous scenery of glaciers and lofty mountain ranges along the way – late this afternoon we’ll get the chance to walk around Lake Matheson if the weather’s clear, before arriving at our overnight destination. (B, D)

DAY 6 FOX GLACIER TO WEST COAST (GREYMOUTH)

To really discover the beauty of the glacier up and surrounding area up close, take on the optional half-day guided hike. Of course, you might prefer the optional heli-hike, which offers views from up on high. We travel to the rugged natural beauty of the West Coast, visiting Hokitika and the local jade factory – maybe pick up a little souvenir? Finally tonight, we’ll go on a guided tour of Monteith’s Brewery, with a free sample included! (B, D)

DAY 7 WEST COAST TO CHRISTCHURCH

We head back to our starting point of Christchurch today, and the end of our voyages together. (B)

Please note that this trip forms part of the Grand Kiwi trip, days 11 - 17.