7 Day South Island Classic Rail Tour

Great Journeys NZ Rail Itinerary

7 Day South Island Rail & Coach | Small Group

Daily Itinerary

DAY 1: Explore Christchurch

Kia Ora!

Welcome to Christchurch – New Zealand’s Garden City! The largest city in the South Island, Christchurch is known for its historical earthquake in 2011 and how it rebuilt itself into a charming, multicultural city that blends modern architecture and technology with the existing 19th-century Anglican ‘gothic revival’ architectural influence.

After checking into your hotel and reading your welcome letter from your Tour Director, head out and explore all that Christchurch has to offer. This is the perfect opportunity to wander through the enticing stalls at Riverside Market or explore the botanical gardens before heading to the art gallery, museums and other city attractions.

After an exciting day on the town, your journey will officially begin as you join your fellow travellers and Tour Director at this evening’s welcome reception.

Accommodation

3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation(1 night)

Meals Included

A welcome drink is included in tonight's reception

Activities

Welcome Reception

DAY 2: Christchurch - Punakaiki

The TranzAlpine Scenic Train

The moment has come to experience the world-famous TranzAlpine scenic train journey through the Southern Alps, emerging in the West Coast!

On this fantastic escape, you will see epic vistas, soar on the edges of the ice fed Waimakariri River, traverse through the Great Divide, and experience ever-changing landscapes. The natural scenery isn’t the only marvel, though. The TranzAlpine passes through the Otira Tunnel, a true engineering marvel of 100 years!

Once you arrive at the West Coast, a private coach will take you even further off the beaten track to Punakaiki, where you will explore curious limestone rock formations and blowholes.

Accommodation

3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation(1 night)

Meals Included

Breakfast

Activities Included

TranzAlpine Scenic Journey

Punakaiki Pancake Rock Excursion

DAY 3: Punakaiki - Franz Josef West Coast

Explore the West Coast

This morning, you start your West Coast adventure by visiting one of the South Island’s most popular activities– the Treetop Aerial Walkway. This elevated adventure will get you acquainted with the locals – the ancient Rimu and Kamahi trees.

After your sky-high experience, continue south into Glacier Country. Franz Josef Glacier is quite special in that it survives in the warm coastal rainforest temperatures. With a short walk to a viewpoint, you'll get a fantastic view of the vast valley, as well as a sneak peek of Franz Josef Glacier itself. If you would prefer to get up close, we recommend booking an optional helicopter flight. This will ensure you are getting the best possible view of this natural wonder.

After your glacial experience and checking into the hotel, you’ll have some free time to enjoy Franz Josef town. Indulge in a little retail therapy, a helicopter flight, nature walk or tap into some natural tranquillity at the local hot pools.

Accommodation

3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation(1 night)

Meals Included

Breakfast

Activities Included

Treetops Aerial Walkway

Short nature walk to glacier viewing point

DAY 4: Franz Josef - Queenstown

A Unique Kiwi Style Road Trip

Today you will be exploring the mountainous Haast Pass. With changing landscapes around every bend, this journey to Queenstown will be one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. Marvel at the beaches, crystal blue lakes and rivers, mountain peaks, lush vineyards, charming plains and stunning glaciers as your Tour Director guides you between local hidden gems.

Emerging on the other side of the pass, explore a local fruit hotspot before exploring the cobblestone streets of the historic goldmining settlement of Arrowtown.

After an exciting plunge into the history of this gold rush village, you will arrive in the world-famous resort town of Queenstown!

Accommodation

3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation(3 Nights in Queenstown)

Meals Included

Breakfast

Activities Included

Scenic coach journey through Haast Pass with stops along the way

Haast Visitors Centre, Mrs Jones' Fruit Stall and Arrowtown Visit

DAY 5: Queenstown

Explore Queenstown

Enjoy a free day to explore everything Queenstown has to offer.

Today we highly recommend you join an excursion to the 8th Wonder of the World - it truly is a remarkable experience. Milford Sounds/ Piopiotahi is a scenic escape approximately three hours from Queenstown. The natural landscape will engulf you as you waltz through plunging valleys and towering peaks. Take this encounter to the next level by booking a return visit by plane or helicopter and soar like the Piopio (ancient bird) back to Queenstown.

Whether you’ve decided to hop aboard the steamship lake cruise on the iconic TSS Earnslaw, or marvel at the power of ancient roaring rivers - tonight you have a free evening to indulge in Queenstown's exciting nightlife. Sip cocktails and indulge in the sparkling views of Lake Wakatipu.

Accommodation

3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation(3 Nights in Queenstown)

Meals Included

Breakfast

DAY 6: Queenstown

The Close to an Adventure of a Lifetime

Queenstown truly has something for everyone. Personalise your day to be as active or relaxed as you’d like. Whether it’s exploring Walter Peak on a horse trekking adventure, joining the historic steamship across Lake Wakatipu or sipping wine in Gibbston Valley, there is no shortage of activities to delight your senses.

This evening is your ‘final hurrah’ as you enjoy a farewell dinner. This is the perfect time to reminisce and share photos and phone numbers with your new friends.

Accommodation

3.5 - 4 Star Accommodation(3 Nights in Queenstown)

Meals

Breakfast, Dinner

Activities

Farewell Dinner

DAY 7: Departing Queenstown

Departing Queenstown

Your journey will end after enjoying a final breakfast with your fellow travellers.

Not ready to leave Queenstown? Reach out to our Travel Centre to pre-organise your extended stay.

Meals

Breakfast

Activities

Transfer to airport