Note that departures of this tour starting after August 1, 2013, follow a different itinerary. Click here for the other itinerary.

New Zealand—South Island Encompassed

From$2299USD
15 days,Christchurch to Christchurch
Trip Code: ONSE

Exploring the trails of Abel Tasman National Park by foot, hiking the Franz Josef glacier valley, getting an adrenaline rush in Queenstown, weaving through the remote fjords of the Doubtful Sound by sea kayak, biking while stopping to taste local wine.

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Use promo code: G13PLUSAIR100

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That's right. Book your airfare when you book your G Adventures trip and we'll slice $100 off the price for you. Simply enter promo code G13PLUSAIR100 when prompted and we'll do the rest.

Offer valid for new bookings only with international air travel originating in North America added to a land booking. Not valid with any other discount, offer or promotion. Subject to availability. Must book by July 31, 2013, for travel by February 1, 2014. Subject to airline regulations and restrictions.

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Looking to tackle a bundle of different environments all in one go? New Zealand’s South Island has what you need and then some. Action is the common thread throughout this trip that incorporates hiking, kayaking, biking, glacier treks and even bungee jumping across a variety of landscapes, including rainforests, glaciers and some of the most gorgeous coastline you’ll ever see. This trip is exciting even when you’re not moving; accommodations include an authentic bush camp and a wilderness lodge deep in the rainforest itself. Unique? You bet.

What's Included

  • Excursion to Abel Tasman National Park, visit to the Cape Foulwind seal colony, walks in Paparoa National Park including the Pancake Rocks, walk in the Lake Matheson region, kayaking in a UNESCO World Heritage park, mountain biking along the Otago Rail Trail.
  • 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 7 dinners. (Allow NZD350-400 for meals not included.)
  • Hostels (4 nts), basic hotels (3 nts), eco lodge (1 nt), lodges (4 nts), cabin (1 nt), floating boat hostel (1 nt). Most nights are multi-share.
  • Private bus, kayak, boat, ferry
  • Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout except in Picton, local guides.
  • Small group experience; Max 18, avg 12
Map of the route for New Zealand—South Island Encompassed Click to enlarge
Places Visited
  • New Zealand
Itinerary Notes

Please note that all departures through July 2013 will depart from Christchurch, following the itinerary below. As of August 1, 2013 there will be an itinerary change. You can find the updated itinerary by clicking the link at the top of this page.

More information about the accommodation that we use for this trip can be found by clicking the button below.

Accommodation Info

Day 1 Christchurch

Arrive at any time.

Day 2 Kaikoura (1B,1D)

Travel to the seaside town of Kaikoura for the night, where options include whale watching, swimming with seals or walking along the coast.

Day 3 Picton (1B)

Take in the beautiful views of Queen Charlotte Sound and opt to go hiking, explore the picturesque Marlborough Sounds by boat or check out the maritime museum.

Day 4-5 Abel Tasman National Park (2B,2D)

Travel by bus and boat into Abel Tasman National Park. Hike and explore the park's golden beaches and waterways.

Day 6 Punakaiki (1B,1D)

Head south down the coast of black sand beaches. Visit a seal colony and take in the pancake rock formations at Punakaiki.

Day 7-8 Franz Josef (2B,1D)

Enjoy an overnight stay in a lodge surrounded by rainforest. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage area and opt for a glacial valley walk to the base of the glacier with a visit to the hot springs or an exciting helihike and hot pools.

Day 9-11 Queenstown (3B)

Stop for lunch at the lakeside town of Wanaka before continuing on to the adventure capital of the world—Queenstown. Fill your time here with some of the adrenaline-filled options, such as jet boating, bungee jumping, mountain biking, sky diving, or a vineyard tour.

Day 12 Doubtful Sound (1B,1L,1D)

Visit Fiordland National Park en route to Doubtful Sound. Guided kayak excursion before overnighting in a lodge surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery and wildlife.

Day 13-14 Central Otago (2B,1D)

Travel to Central Otago, famous for its vineyards and goldmines. Bike 35 km of the rail trail from one historic town to the next, sampling local food along the way.

Day 15 Christchurch (1B)

Head north to Christchurch, where the tour ends upon arrival.



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