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Product Code: MT-2364
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10-Day Fly, Rail & Coach Tour discovering New Zealand’s scenic South Island, from the glaciers and rainforests of the West Coast to iconic alpine towns, towering mountains and rolling vineyards.
Book By 31 March 2026
Select Dates October 26 - April 27
10-Day Fly, Rail & Coach Tour discovering New Zealand’s scenic South Island, from the glaciers and rainforests of the West Coast to iconic alpine towns, towering mountains and rolling vineyards.
Return economy flights to Christchurch, New Zealand
Your Holiday At A Glance
Uncover the scenic wonders of New Zealand’s South Island on this 10-day guided tour. Journey from the glaciers and rainforests of the West Coast to the turquoise lakes, alpine towns and rolling vineyards of Central Otago. Marvel at the Southern Alps and capture iconic photos at Mt Cook, Lake Tekapo, Wanaka and Queenstown. Traverse spectacular landscapes on the legendary TranzAlpine train, winding through mountains, rivers and valleys. With a balance of guided experiences, optional activities and free time, this tour immerses you in the South Island’s most breathtaking scenery.
Tour Inclusions
Tour Highlights
Experience the very best of New Zealand on this unforgettable journey from Auckland to Christchurch, blending vibrant cities, rich Māori culture, cinematic landscapes and world-class rail journeys. Travel from the Coromandel Peninsula to Rotorua’s geothermal wonders, discover Hobbiton, and follow dramatic coastlines to Wellington before crossing Cook Strait by ferry and continuing by scenic train into the South Island. Marvel at alpine icons including Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo, Central Otago and Queenstown, explore historic gold-rush towns, journey the wild West Coast past glaciers and rainforests, and ride the legendary TranzAlpine through the Southern Alps. With carefully selected stays, immersive experiences, breathtaking scenery and relaxed free time, this grand New Zealand adventure is a true bucket-list journey from coast to coast.
Call our friendly Tour Experts today to learn more about our 18 Day Grand New Zealand Rail & Coach Tour package — crafted so you spend more time exploring the places you’ll love.
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Welcome to the South Island of New Zealand.
Upon arrival at Christchurch Airport, make your own way to your centrally located hotel and settle in. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy time at leisure to begin exploring Christchurch’s winter charm. Stroll along the picturesque Avon River, wander through the Botanic Gardens, or relax in a cosy café as you soak up the city’s blend of contemporary design and English heritage.
Meals: None
Depart Christchurch this morning, journeying south across the vast Canterbury Plains and into the heart of Mackenzie Country, a region renowned for its sweeping tussock landscapes, alpine scenery and crystal-clear night skies. Pause at the luminous turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, where the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd is perfectly framed by snow-capped peaks — one of New Zealand’s most photographed scenes.
Continue to the alpine township of Twizel, nestled among the Southern Alps. This evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner with your fellow travellers and, weather permitting, step outside to experience the extraordinary night skies of the Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve — one of the world’s premier stargazing destinations.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart Twizel and follow the shimmering shoreline of Lake Pukaki, where breathtaking views of Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, dominate the horizon. Continue into Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park to visit the inspiring Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, where engaging exhibits celebrate his remarkable achievements and deep connection to both this region and the Himalayas.
After time in the alpine village, travel south through Omarama before crossing the spectacular Lindis Pass, where the scenery shifts from dramatic alpine valleys to the golden, rolling hills of Central Otago.
Arrive in Cromwell, a charming lakeside town renowned for its orchards, vineyards and beautifully restored historic precinct. This evening, unwind by the water or enjoy Central Otago’s renowned hospitality at one of the town’s inviting local restaurants.
Meals: Breakfast
Today offers an authentic taste of Central Otago, a region shaped by gold-rush heritage, vast open landscapes and boutique vineyards. Journey through historic towns such as Clyde, Lauder and St Bathans, where time seems to stand still among weathered stone cottages, quiet main streets and shimmering blue lakes.
Take in sweeping views of rugged mountain ranges and sunburnt hillsides that give way to neat rows of vines — this is New Zealand’s highest and most southerly wine region, famed for its Pinot Noir and striking scenery.
A highlight of the day is a leisurely lunch at the Vulcan, a character-filled historic gold-rush hotel where hearty fare and warm southern hospitality are served with a sense of history. Later, return to Cromwell as the late afternoon light sets the surrounding hills aglow. Enjoy a relaxed evening in this tranquil alpine setting — perhaps a lakeside stroll or a glass of local Central Otago wine before sunset.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Depart Cromwell this morning and travel through the rugged Kawarau Gorge, where steep canyon walls and turquoise waters reveal the region’s rich gold-mining past. Stop in the picturesque village of Arrowtown, a beautifully preserved settlement from the 1860s gold-rush era. Wander its tree-lined streets, browse charming boutiques and galleries, or enjoy morning tea in one of its cosy cafés.
Continue to Queenstown as the scenery unfolds into breathtaking alpine splendour — a fitting welcome to New Zealand’s adventure capital. After checking in, the remainder of the day is at leisure to relax or explore the lively lakefront promenade, boutique shopping and vibrant dining scene.
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy a full day to experience Queenstown at your own pace. You can choose to take a nostalgic cruise aboard the TSS Earnslaw, enjoy a wine-tasting tour in Gibbston Valley, or ride the scenic gondola for sweeping alpine views.
Queenstown truly offers something for everyone — from relaxed lakeside strolls and exceptional dining to adrenaline-filled adventure. Keen walkers may wish to tackle the hike to the summit of Ben Lomond, rising to 1,400 metres and rewarding those who reach the top with breathtaking panoramic views over the lake and surrounding peaks.
Meals: Breakfast
Optional: Milford Sound Coach & Cruise with lunch from $350 per person – Journey from Queenstown through spectacular alpine scenery to Milford Sound, often called the eighth wonder of the world. Enjoy a scenic cruise beneath towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, with a picnic lunch served onboard before returning to Queenstown in the evening
Enjoy a relaxed departure this morning before travelling over the spectacular Crown Range, New Zealand’s highest sealed road, offering panoramic vistas across the Wakatipu Basin and the alpine valleys below.
Arrive in the lakeside haven of Wanaka, a town celebrated for its natural beauty and laid-back charm. Visit the Wanaka Transport Museum, home to an impressive collection of classic cars, motorcycles, and aviation exhibits that showcase Kiwi ingenuity and adventure.
This afternoon, unwind by the tranquil lakefront, explore the town’s boutique shops and cafés, or take an easy stroll along the shoreline. For dinner, we highly recommend the Stoaker Room, conveniently located across from your accommodation — a perfect spot to sample delicious local cuisine.
Meals: Breakfast
Depart Wanaka and journey through Mount Aspiring National Park, crossing the awe-inspiring Haast Pass — a UNESCO World Heritage corridor of waterfalls, rainforest, and alpine peaks. Pause at scenic lookouts, including Thunder Creek Falls and the stunning Blue Pools, where crystal-clear waters mirror the surrounding mountains.
Continue along the wild West Coast, where winding roads reveal untouched rainforest and dramatic coastal vistas, before arriving in Franz Josef, the gateway to the region’s iconic glaciers.
For those seeking a truly unforgettable experience, a heli-adventure to the snowfields and glacier névé is highly recommended. At your own cost, you can land high above the Southern Alps to witness the icy wonderland that feeds the Franz Josef Glacier — a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with nature. For Franz Josef optional activities, your Tour Leader will provide details on tour.
Meals: Breakfast
This morning, depart Franz Josef and travel north along the rugged West Coast by coach, passing pristine lakes, lush rainforest, and historic mining towns before arriving in Greymouth.
Board the world-renowned TranzAlpine Train for one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. Sit back in your panoramic carriage and watch the landscape transform as you traverse deep gorges, soaring viaducts, and rolling high-country plains. The wild West Coast gradually gives way to snow-dusted peaks before descending into the wide plains of Canterbury.
Arrive in Christchurch for your final evening on the South Island. Gather with your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner and share memories from an incredible journey through Aotearoa.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today marks the conclusion of your journey in Christchurch. After checking out of your hotel by 10:00 am, make your own way to the airport for your onward travel. Depending on your schedule, you might have time to explore the city at your own.
Meals: Breakfast
Price based on tours starting:
Extra charges apply for:
Price based on departing from Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney
Extra charges apply for:
Itinerary
Our multi-stop tours in New Zealand are meticulously planned to highlight the awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural diversity of each region. Each day presents a varied schedule, featuring scenic coach journeys necessary for reaching certain destinations. This tour provides a perfect balance of guided sightseeing and leisure time, allowing you to fully engage with the magnificent scenery and vibrant local culture.
Pace
The pace of this tour is moderate. The tour covers several regions in New Zealand and involves some early starts and some long travel days.
Fitness
A moderate level of fitness is required. You are required to move about unassisted, including boarding and exiting/disembarking vehicles and other forms of transportation, walking up and down flights of stairs, and navigating occasional uneven or steep terrain.
This trip is not suitable for travellers requiring a wheelchair, mobility scooter, or specialised facilities. Other walking aids may be permitted if you are able to move independently and keep pace with the group. Please note there will be a fair amount of walking, and some locations will have stairs. If you have any health concerns, let us know when booking so we can help confirm if this trip is suitable for you.
Transfers
Airport transfers are NOT included.
Note: The accommodation mentioned above is subject to change. Please refer to your Hotel List provided to you at the time of Final Documentation sent no later than 30 days prior to departure.
A single supplement from $1200*pp is payable in addition to the twin share price for solo occupancy.
Exclusions
Meals not stated, beverages, optional programs, travel insurance (strongly recommended), tipping, personal expenses and anything not explicitly specified are at your own expense.
Payment
A first deposit from $499 per person is required to secure your booking. A second deposit (partial payment) is due 10 months before departure – the amount to be advised at the time of booking. The final balance will be due 5 months before departure. Full payment is due at the time of booking for departures within 5 months.
Fitness
A moderate level of fitness is required. You are required to move about unassisted, including boarding and alighting vehicles and other forms of transportation, walking up and down flights of stairs, and navigating uneven terrain and footpaths. Porterage is not included and will be required to carry your own baggage to and from hotels. This trip is not suitable for travellers requiring wheelchair, mobility scooters or facilities for disabled guests. Other walking aids may be permitted if you are able move about unassisted at the required pace. For advice on whether this trip is suitable for you, you must disclose physical ailments at the time of booking.
Pace
The pace of this tour is moderate. The tour covers several regions in New Zealand and involves some early starts and some long travel days – see the itinerary for an indication of the day by day travels on the premium coach. One to two nights at each destination is standard. Scheduled free days allow some downtime, or alternatively, you have the flexibility to explore further and book optional sightseeing (at your own expense).
Tipping
Tipping in New Zealand is not mandatory however it is recommended as a gesture of appreciation for the service provided by your Tour Leader/local guides.
Solo Occupancy
A single supplement from $1,200 per person is payable in addition to the twin share price for solo occupancy.
Triple Share
Triple share is not available.
Extra Accommodation
Unfortunately, pre and post group tour accommodation is not available. You may wish to book your own pre and post tour accommodation however, the group hotels are finalised no later than 30 days prior to departure.
Child
This tour is best enjoyed by adult travellers and is not suitable for children under 8 years of age. Children 8 years and above are subject to the adult price and must be accompanied by an adult.
Price
Surcharges may apply for select travel periods and departure cities. Prices are correct at time of publication and are subject to availability, change, cancellation or withdrawal without notice. All prices are in Australian dollars per person twin share unless stated otherwise.
Amendment
Changes for any reason will incur a fee of $110 per person per change in addition to any travel service provider fees.
Cancellation
Cancellation for any reason will incur a fee of $550 per person in addition to any travel service provider fees. Travel service provider fees for the tour and air components of the package are dependent on the date of the change or cancellation as follows:
Airfares are generally non-refundable but any refundable ticket taxes will be returned. Full details of the change and cancellation fees is outlined in the Terms & Conditions available on our website
Deviation
Any request to deviate from the original dates or routing, including early arrival and extending your stay, is subject to a flight deviation fee from $150 per person plus applicable airfare and tax difference. Packaged tour extensions are not subject to the deviation fee (applicable airfare and tax difference may still apply) if booked according to the original advertised dates and routing.
Passport
For international travel, each customer must provide a copy of the passport photo page at the time of booking. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure all names are full names exactly matched to the passport with six months validity beyond trip completion. The customer is liable for all fees due to incorrect names, invalid passport information and expired passports.
Visa
A visa is generally not required for Australian passport holders visiting New Zealand for the purpose of short-term tourism, however, this policy is subject to change without notice. Visa requirements for each origin and destination country are the responsibility of the customer to check and obtain (if required) with the local consulate or embassy. The customer is liable for all visa application costs and fees due to the failure to obtain the required travel documents.
Health
It is the responsibility of the customer to check and comply with the health, vaccination, COVID-19 and immigration requirements of each origin and destination country, and health requirements imposed by air, tour, cruise and accommodation providers. Vaccinations, testing and quarantine costs are the expense of the customer. Comprehensive travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is strongly recommended.
Baggage
Each person is entitled to a strict maximum of one bag not exceeding 20kg on tour, superseding any other baggage allowance. Excess baggage is not permitted. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly. An additional light day bag or backpack is permitted on the coach. Porterage is not included, and you are required to carry your own bags. Luggage and personal effects are your own risk, and we hold no liability for lost or damaged belongings.
Transfers
Airport transfers are not included.
Meals
Breakfast is offered by the accommodation and is typically buffet style. There are limited vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free options. For meals not included, you will be taken to places with options where possible. Please notify us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements and allergies. We endeavour to pass on your dietary requirements but cannot guarantee that they can be met as certain choices may be limited or not catered for. You are required to reconfirm dietary requests with your Tour Guide whilst on tour.
Accommodation
All hotel rooms will feature either a twin room (two single beds) or a double room (1 double bed). All bedding requests cannot be guaranteed however all special requests should be made known at time of booking. All rooms are lead-in category or run of house unless otherwise specified. Hotel names mentioned are indicative and subject to change, with final group tour hotels being confirmed on your final documentation. All hotel ratings are local or self-ratings provided by the supplier. The standard check-in time is from 3pm and check-out is prior to 10am.
International Flights
Flights are booked approximately 8 to 10 months prior to departure. The flights included in your package are based on a specific predetermined airfare allowance. Should there be a significant increase in airfares, fuel levies, taxes or government fees at the time of booking flights, then an airfare supplement may be imposed. The flights team will discuss options with you prior to ticketing, should this situation arise. Flights may not operate daily or directly to your destination. No show of any flight sectors will result in the automatic cancellation of all onward flights by the airline.
Fuel
In the unlikely event of a significant increase in fuel costs levied by third-party air, land and cruise transportation operators before travel, a fuel supplement may be passed on to the customer.
Group Size
You will meet like-minded travellers on tour and may even make lifelong friends. This holiday will proceed with a minimum group size of 12 passengers and a maximum group size of 32 passengers. If the tour does not operate, you will be offered a credit. The operation of optional programs is subject to a minimum group size. If the minimum number for optional programs is not reached, you will be refunded.
Optional Tours
Specially crafted optional programs provide flexibility for you to explore further. Optional programs on this tour are provided by our local supplier, this includes locations such as Franz Josef.
The below Milford Sound activity must be pre-booked 3 months prior due to demand and popularity.
Day 6 – Milford Sound Coach & Cruise with lunch – From AUD $350 per person
Journey from Queenstown through spectacular alpine scenery to Milford Sound, often called the eighth wonder of the world. Enjoy a scenic cruise beneath towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, with a picnic lunch served onboard before returning to Queenstown in the evening.
This 12 hour full day experience is operated by RealNZ with engaging commentary and scenic stops along the way. Your Tour Leader will not be joining however will reconfirm the start time no later than 24 hours prior. Please note all Milford Sound product is subject to weather and road closures.
Itinerary
The operating schedule and itinerary may be impacted without notice by adverse weather, seasonal factors, closures, local conditions, COVID-19 or other factors beyond our control including force majeure. If attractions are not available due to reasons beyond our control such as closures or adverse weather, alternatives will be provided where possible. The itinerary and its order, sightseeing and transportation may be adjusted as deemed appropriate by the operator for optimum safety, enjoyment and operation. Any reference to ‘optional’, ‘not included’ or ‘exclusions/excluded’ means at your own expense.
Train and Ferry Transportation
Please note that in the event of train or ferry disruptions, your itinerary may be adjusted to include a flight or coach transfer. Due to weather conditions or scheduled track and ferry maintenance, certain services may not operate as planned. Your tour leader will advise you of any changes upon arrival in your destination to ensure your journey continues safely and smoothly.
Breakaway
Customers must remain with the tour group at all times and must not leave the tour unless written approval is provided before departure.
Documentation
Final documentation will be emailed 30 days prior to departure which includes a final hotel list, return flight itinerary and invoice with day by day itinerary.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is strongly recommended. Ask our holiday experts for great coverage options.
Force Majeure
Force majeure means any natural disaster, accident, fire, act of God, act of war, terrorism, legally binding judgment, injunction, action of a court or other relevant authority, emergency, unplanned repairs, maintenance, strike, industrial dispute, work ban, blockade or picketing, travel ban, pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of infectious disease, or other event beyond our reasonable direct or indirect control. In case of force majeure or other extraordinary event that prevents safe travel, the supplier reserves the right to adjust, postpone or cancel the trip.
Product Code: MT-2364
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18-Day Fly, Rail & Coach Tour uncovering the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand, featuring stunning lakes, majestic mountains, giant glaciers and soothing thermal springs.
Valued at $10299
