Epic New Zealand South Island Adventure with Mauricio Arlegui

Your TourHero

Mauricio Arlegui

Hi! My name is Mauricio, lover of languages, adventure, and travel. Having visited 60 countries on various trips you could say my travel style is now more on the comfort side — why camp when you can glamp? It also always involves a wine or two at the end of the night. I have an ambitious goal to visit 100 countries by the age of 40, and times-a-ticking!

Duration

7 days · 6 nights

Travel Date

Nov 29 – Dec 5, 2021

Activity Level

Moderate

Group Size

6 – 16

Transportation

Bus

Tour Prices

NZD 3,565
/ person

Your Fellow Explorers

Travel interest

Nature, sightseeing, hiking

Passion

Food and wine

Your Local Guide

Your Guide – Haka Tours

Haka Tours has been making travel dreams come true since 2007. Today, they are proud to be one of New Zealand’s leading small group adventure operators, delivering intimate, authentic, and immersive experiences in the country. Along with valuable training and expertise to ensure your safety on a trip, Haka Tours takes it one step further with the passion and dedication of its team to help you discover hidden gems and experience unforgettable moments. Let them take care of the nitty gritty details for you — all you have to do is let the adventure unfold!

New Zealand>Epic New Zealand South Island Adventure with Mauricio Arlegui

Discover the alluring magic of one of the most beautiful places in the world. New Zealand’s mesmerizing South Island is famous for its picturesque roads, unbelievable landscapes, and iconic attractions — and you’ll see the best of them on this trip. This seven-day guided experience includes unforgettable highlights, wrapped up in gorgeous scenery: an epic drive from Christchurch through Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook, moments spent in adventure paradise Queenstown, an epic Milford Sound cruise, a journey through Wanaka (home of the most photographed tree in New Zealand), a visit to Franz Josef and its spectacular glacier, and more! Once you arrive, we promise you’ll never want to leave.

Cancellation policy

Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.

Refunds for balance payment
Your place is guaranteed at the time of full payment. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to offer any refunds for the amount paid.

Your TourHero

Mauricio Arlegui

Hi! My name is Mauricio, lover of languages, adventure, and travel. Having visited 60 countries on various trips you could say my travel style is now more on the comfort side — why camp when you can glamp? It also always involves a wine or two at the end of the night. I have an ambitious goal to visit 100 countries by the age of 40, and times-a-ticking!

Duration

7 days · 6 nights

Travel Date

Nov 29 – Dec 5, 2021

Activity Level

Moderate

Group Size

6 – 16

Transportation

Bus

New Zealand>Epic New Zealand South Island Adventure with Mauricio Arlegui

Discover the alluring magic of one of the most beautiful places in the world. New Zealand’s mesmerizing South Island is famous for its picturesque roads, unbelievable landscapes, and iconic attractions — and you’ll see the best of them on this trip. This seven-day guided experience includes unforgettable highlights, wrapped up in gorgeous scenery: an epic drive from Christchurch through Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook, moments spent in adventure paradise Queenstown, an epic Milford Sound cruise, a journey through Wanaka (home of the most photographed tree in New Zealand), a visit to Franz Josef and its spectacular glacier, and more! Once you arrive, we promise you’ll never want to leave.

Timeline

  • Day 1 · Christchurch and Mount Cook
  • Arrive at Christchurch International Airport
  • Christchurch city tour
  • Lunch (not included in price)
  • Drive to Mount Cook via Lake Tekapo — stopover at Church of the Good Shepherd
  • Check-in at The Hermitage Hotel (or similar according to availability)
  • Welcome dinner
  • Day 2 · Mount Cook and Queenstown
  • Breakfast and check out of accommodation
  • Hiking — free and easy
  • Scenic drive to Queenstown
  • Lunch (not included in price)
  • Check-in at QT Queenstown (or similar according to availability)
  • Dinner (not included in price)
  • Day 3 · Queenstown and Milford Sound
  • Breakfast
  • Fly into Milford Sound
  • Milford Sound cruise
  • Lunch (not included in price)
  • Fly back to Queenstown
  • Dinner and bar hopping (not included in price)
  • Day 4 · Queenstown and Wanaka
  • Breakfast and check out of accommodation
  • Free and easy morning
  • Lunch (not included in price)
  • Journey to Wanaka — stopover in Arrowtown
  • Check-in at Wanaka Oasis Yurt Lodge (or similar according to availability)
  • Explore Wanaka — free and easy
  • Dinner (not included in price)
  • Day 5 · Wanaka and Franz Josef
  • Breakfast and check out of accommodation
  • Explore Wanaka — free and easy
  • Lunch (not included in price)
  • Scenic drive to Franz Josef — Lake Hawea Lookout, Haast Pass
  • Check-in at Rainforest Retreat (or similar according to availability)
  • Dinner (not included in price)
  • Day 6 · Franz Josef
  • Breakfast
  • Pounamu (greenstone/jade) pendant carving experience
  • Explore Franz Josef — free and easy
  • Lunch and dinner (not included in price)
  • Day 7 · Franz Josef and Christchurch
  • Breakfast and check out of accommodation
  • West coast scenic drive to Hokitika
  • Visit Hokitika greenstone factory
  • Visit National Kiwi Centre (time permitting)
  • Lunch (not included in price)
  • Return to Christchurch
  • Journey ends in Christchurch

Details

Day 1

Arrive in Christchurch for a fun city tour before your scenic journey to Mackenzie Country

Welcome to New Zealand! This morning, you’ll spend some eye-opening moments exploring iconic downtown Christchurch. Your guide will show you all the inventive ways the city is being rebuilt after the events of the devastating 2011 earthquake. See just how innovative, resilient, and creative the people of Christchurch are — discover the truly inspirational story of the Transitional Cathedral, created from cardboard after the original cathedral was damaged in the quake. After your city tour, it’s time to leave Christchurch behind and head for Mount Cook via the breathtaking Lake Tekapo.

Christchurch, New ZealandChristchurch, New ZealandTransitional Cathedral, ChristchurchLake Tekapo Scenic Drive

Discover the beauty of Lake Tekapo on the way to Mount Cook

We hope you’ve got your camera out! This route is blessed with incredible views of the lake’s turquoise waters and mountain backdrop, perfect for photo ops, which is why you’ll stop at the tiny Church of the Good Shepherd that sits right by the water’s edge for some incredible pictures. After that, you’ll continue onwards through the beautiful Mackenzie Country to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park to bask in the presence of the highest mountain in New Zealand (standing at a dizzying 3,724 meters high). Settle into your accommodation for the night. This region has been declared an International Dark Sky Reserve, meaning you’ll be able to catch epic views of the stars and galaxies here. Sit back, relax, and enjoy — a special welcome dinner awaits you and your friends tonight.

Lake Tekapo, New ZealandChurch of the Good Shepherd, Lake TekapoChurch of the Good Shepherd, Lake TekapoMackenzie Region, New Zealand

Day 2

Explore Mount Cook’s surroundings then head to Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World”

Rise and shine! Have a hearty breakfast and spend some time exploring the area. Feeling energetic? Use your free morning to hike part of the famous Hooker track or the beautiful Tasman Lake Track to catch a stunning sunrise. You’ll be treated to breathtaking views in every direction. After your morning of exploration, we’ll say goodbye to Mount Cook and embark on an incredibly scenic drive to Queenstown — this journey is a real show-stopper, it will feel like you’re driving into a postcard! Don’t worry, there’ll be plenty of photo stops en route, including a stop at the spectacular Kawarau Gorge, the “World Home of Bungy” where the very first commercial bungy jumping site sits! Give this thrilling activity a go (see optional add-ons section), or enjoy watching the jumpers scream their way through the gorge! Once you reach Queenstown, check into your accommodation and enjoy the rest of your evening at your leisure. You’ll be spending two nights here and there’s plenty to fall in love with!

Mount Cook HikingMount Cook HikingQueenstown, New ZealandKawarau Gorge, New Zealand

Day 3

Fly into Milford Sound and embark on an epic cruise to see the “Eighth Wonder of the World”

Good morning! Today, you’ll visit one of New Zealand’s most treasured natural attractions: Milford Sound — and you’re flying directly there to board your cruise to see it! A magical fiord in the southwest of South Island, Milford Sound is all about its impressive combination of mountain peaks, plunging cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and otherworldly views. As you sail beneath the towering peaks and cascades, you’ll understand why some call it the “Eighth Wonder of the World”. The fiord is also home to some incredible wildlife, including fur seals, dolphins, and penguins. Keep a lookout for them! After your tour, you’ll fly back to Queenstown. Get ready for a night on the town. Do a little bar hopping (you’ll have around 40 bars to choose from — let your guide fill you in on their favorites) and share your adventures with your travel buddies. Time to party the night away!

Milford Sound CruiseMilford Sound CruiseMilford Sound CruiseSeals at Milford Sound

Day 4

Enjoy your last morning in Queenstown — do some high-adrenaline activities if you dare!

After breakfast, it’s your last morning in Queenstown to work on that bucket list! What will it be today? An exhilarating canyoning experience? An epic Lord of the Rings 4x4 safari? Or a thrilling jet boat ride along the Shotover River? There are plenty of options — they don’t call Queenstown the “Adventure Capital” for nothing! After all the excitement of Queenstown, this afternoon is a chance to chill. You’re off to Wanaka, Queenstown’s slightly quieter sister, located just an hour away.

Adventure activities in QueenstownJet boating in QueenstownParagliding in Queenstown

Journey to Wanaka and stop by charming Arrowtown on the way

On the way to Wanaka, a stopover at charming Arrowtown will allow you to discover the historic gold rush village with heaps of old-world character. The settlement was established back in 1862, during the height of the Otago gold rush, and over 60 of the original buildings — cottages, shops, hotels, and churches — can still be seen today. After a quick look around, the journey to Wanaka continues. Watch as the landscape gives way to towering peaks and a glacial blue lake. You’ll see why Wanaka is often considered one of the country’s most beautiful mountain towns. Here, you can discover jaw-dropping hiking routes and bike trails all around for a welcome chance to relax.

Arrowtown, New ZealandWanaka, New ZealandWanaka, New ZealandWanaka, New Zealand

Day 5

Enjoy the beauty of Wanaka’s surroundings however you wish

This morning, it’s all about exploring the picturesque surroundings of Wanaka. How, exactly, is up to you! Optional activities include a flying lesson, skydiving, a bike tour along Wanaka’s lakeside, or a lake cruise and nature walk on Mou Waho Island. If none of these appeal to you, there are lots of scenic short walks in the area — including a visit to #thatwanakatree. Yes, the famous one in the lake! Talk to your guide for the best options.

Mou Waho Island, WanakaThat Wanaka Tree

Make the journey to Franz Josef, complete with scenic stops along the way

The journey to Franz Josef is another stunner. Along the way, there will be several stopovers that will take your breath away. We’ll bring you to one of our favorite lakeside lookout points at Lake Hawea or Lake Wanaka (your guide will keep an eye on the weather and pick the best option). From the cascading waterfalls of Haast Pass to classic Kiwi coastal views, you won’t want to nap on the bus in case you miss anything. Even better, your guide will have some epic surprise photo stops and short walks lined up along the way. We’ll finally roll into the small village of Franz Josef around late afternoon or early evening. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed area is famous for its awesome glacier, located just five kilometers from town — yes, it’s your playground for tomorrow!

Lake HaweaHaast PassFranz Josef, New Zealand

Day 6

Partake in a pounamu pendant carving experience

Refreshed after a good night’s sleep, the beautiful Franz Josef greets you in the morning. The name “Te Wahi Pounamu” (which means ‘the place of greenstone’ in Māori) is given to this part of the West Coast because of the abundance of pounamu (or greenstone/jade) found here. The durable green-colored stone is highly valued in New Zealand as it is considered precious and powerful by the Māori people. Jewelers in New Zealand often hand-carve and craft traditional pounamu pendants and jewelry. Today, you’ll have the special opportunity to carve your very own pounamu pendant at a local gallery.

Pounamu pendant

Discover the Franz Josef Glacier the adventurer’s way

Franz Josef is, of course, located close to the Franz Josef Glacier. The glacier is truly an incredible work of Mother Nature that many people from near and far come to experience. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the glacier, weather permitting. To get up-close and personal with the bluest ice, you can take a scenic helicopter flight and hike the glacier’s surface. Or perhaps you’d rather kayak on a glacial lake, or just relax in the steamy hot springs down below. Discover some of these great activities in the optional add-ons section below.

Franz Josef GlacierFranz Josef

Day 7

Say goodbye to Franz Josef — it’s time to head home, but not before a stopover in Hokitika!

Before you know it, it’s your last day! After breakfast, we’ll head further along the beautiful west coast on another spectacular drive. This time, you’ll be treated to a rugged, primeval landscape of luxuriant rainforest juxtaposed against breathtaking beach and ocean waves. We’ll stop at the cool little town of Hokitika to visit a greenstone factory. It’s a great place to stock up on souvenirs for your friends and family back home. Time permitting, we may also pop into the National Kiwi Centre to catch a guaranteed glimpse of rare kiwi birds in their purpose-built nocturnal house. After we say goodbye to Hokitika, it’s the last leg of your journey. You’ll be journeying through Arthurs Pass, the highest and most spectacular pass across the Southern Alps, home of the iconic 131-meter Devils Punchbowl Falls. Finally, your journey ends back in Christchurch, where it all began. We hope it was a spectacular trip! Until next time!

Hokitika, New ZealandNational Kiwi CentreArthurs Pass, New Zealand

Accommodation

  • The Hermitage Hotel (or similar according to availability)

    The Hermitage Hotel has been haven for intrepid travelers since 1884. Nestled in the beautiful Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, home of the highest mountain in New Zealand, it makes the perfect gateway to your adventures in South Island. Comfortable guest rooms offer majestic views of Mount Cook and are fitted with a balcony, tea/coffee facilities, and an ensuite bathroom. Room type: Double or twin room.

  • QT Queenstown (or similar according to availability)

    Spend your nights in Queenstown wrapped up in style. QT Queenstown is a hotel that embraces an eclectic mix of art and design and mixes it with modern comforts. It sits along the esplanade facing the sparkling Lake Wakatipu, offering grand views of distant mountains. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, and free Wi-Fi. Rooms are fitted with a plush bed, an ensuite bathroom, tea/coffee facilities, and cable TV. Room type: Alpine King/Twin.

  • Oasis Yurt Lodge (or similar according to availability)

    Oasis Yurt Lodge in Wanaka is a unique boutique hotel that boasts a collection of charming yurts and focuses on community and interaction. Embracing the glamping trend, the yurts seamlessly blend into the surrounding natural environment, providing a perfect place for travelers to rest and unwind. Communal facilities like picnic tables, hammocks, kitchens, shared bathrooms, a tipi lounge, and a wood-fired hot tub are available for use. Individual yurts are fitted with beds, premium linens, a fireplace, and multiple power outlets. Room type: Queen Yurt.

  • Rainforest Retreat (or similar according to availability)

    Rainforest Retreat is nestled in the scenic Southern Alps close to the famous Franz Josef Glacier, surrounded by lush rainforest. It is the perfect base from which to explore the glacial region of South Island and the untamed west coast. The property offers seclusion in the form of houses, lodges, and huts, all providing comfortable accommodation for discerning travelers. The Tree Lodge is a stylish studio option with spacious decks and amenities that include an ensuite bathroom, kitchenette, Nespresso machine, and Wi-Fi. Room type: Tree Lodge (double or twin).

The Hermitage Hotel, New ZealandThe Hermitage Hotel, New ZealandQT Queenstown, New ZealandOasis Yurt Lodge, New ZealandRainforest Retreat, New Zealand

Included

  • 1 night in The Hermitage Hotel (or similar)

  • 2 nights in QT Queenstown (or similar)

  • 1 night in Oasis Yurt Lodge (or similar)

  • 2 nights in Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

  • Shared occupancy in accommodation

  • Christchurch city tour

  • Return flight to/from Milford Sound

  • Milford Sound cruise

  • Pounamu pendant carving experience

  • All other activities described in the itinerary

  • All breakfasts

  • Day 1 dinner

  • All transportation in air-conditioned vehicles

  • 24/7 guest support

Not included

  • International flights

  • Arrival and departure transfers

  • Optional activities and add-ons

  • Visa and travel insurance

  • All lunches

  • All dinners (except day 1)

  • Beverages

  • Tips for guides and drivers

FAQ

What happens if I need to cancel my trip?

Please check the on this itinerary page for specific details.

Will TourHero or the operator take care of my visa (if applicable)?

Travelers are responsible for researching visa requirements and obtaining a visa if needed. Please check government websites to ensure you have the necessary documents, along with passport requirements, before your departure date. This includes necessary transit visas, permits, and vaccinations required prior to travel and any required reciprocity fees for the destination. TourHero will provide a booking confirmation document after purchase, which may be needed to obtain a visa.

If your visa is denied for any reason, TourHero will issue a refund based on the cancellation policy. However, we are unable to provide a refund after the cancellation due date has passed.

Do I need a passport for this trip?

A full and valid passport is required for all persons traveling to any destination outside of one’s home country. Most international tours require a passport that's valid for at least six (6) months beyond the scheduled end of your itinerary. TourHero will not issue refunds based on passport issues such as renewals or lost passports.

What's included in the price?

Please check the inclusion and exclusion sections above. You'll find information about included meals, transfers, flights, and activities. If you have any questions or need support, please contact hello@tourhero.com.

Available add-on

Single supplement/private room upgrade

Upgrade your accommodation guestroom to a single/private room (6 nights).

Price: NZD 865

20 spots left

Single supplement add-on

Pre- or post-night in Christchurch — room only

Room only add-on for an extra night in Christchurch at The Muse Christchurch Art Hotel.

Price: NZD 220

20 spots left

The Muse Hotel

Pre- or post-night in Christchurch — room and breakfast

Room and breakfast add-on for an extra night in Christchurch at The Muse Christchurch Art Hotel.

Price: NZD 240

20 spots left

The Muse Hotel

AJ Hackett Kawarau bridge bungy jump

The world’s first commercial bungy jump site created by AJ Hackett. The Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge runs across the scenic Kawarau River. Here, with your heart pounding and mind racing, you can bungy jump 43 meters down towards the river below. You can even dip into the river and get wet if you want! This is known as a water touch bungy. The following weight restrictions apply: minimum 35kg and maximum 235kg.

  • Experience the world’s first commercial bungy jump site created by AJ Hackett
  • Jump 43 meters down towards the river below

Price: NZD 205

20 spots left

Kawarau bridge bungy jump

Flying lesson in Wanaka

A wonderful 20-minute adventure for those who want to experience flying a plane and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Lake Wanaka at the same time. You’ll be sitting next to an experienced flight instructor who will give you some steering control — climb the skies, descend, turn left and right... aspiring pilots, here’s your chance!

  • 20-minute flying lesson with an experienced instructor
  • See the scenic Wanaka region from the air

Price: NZD 199

20 spots left

Flying lesson in Wanaka

Glacier heli hike

Embark on a scenic flight from Franz Josef Village to Franz Josef Glacier, where you will land on the ice itself. Led by an expert guide, you’ll have over two hours to explore the incredible natural icescape via safe and spectacular routes around the glacier. Discover narrow crevasses, towering walls of ice, and crawl through blue ice tunnels. No two trips are the same on this evolving natural playground! A reasonable level of fitness and agility is required for this activity. All the gear you need to walk on the ice including boots, crampons, and trekking poles will be provided. You should bring warm, breathable base clothing such as merino, long pants for walking in (jeans are not suitable, tracksuits and leggings are fine), sunglasses (essential), sunblock, warm hat and gloves, camera or phone, water bottle, and a small snack.

  • Includes a scenic flight from Franz Josef Village to Franz Josef Glacier
  • Land on the ice and explore the terrain for two hours
  • Hiking gear such as boots, crampons, and trekking poles will be provided

Price: NZD 499

20 spots left

Glacier heli hike

Heli experience with snow landing

Soak up glorious views of the Franz Josef Glacier and the west coast on this 25-minute scenic flight. Fly over the world-famous glacier and through the Southern Alps to Mount Elie De Beaumont for a thrilling snow landing experience. See Mount Cook and Mount Tasman from the air and enjoy New Zealand’s alpine wilderness at its most rugged; rainforests, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and valleys.

  • 25-minute scenic flight to see the Franz Josef Glacier and the west coast
  • Land in the snow at Mount Elie De Beaumont

Price: NZD 280

20 spots left

Heli experience with snow landing

Glacier country kayaking guided tour

Experience panoramic views of glaciers, untouched Jurassic rainforests, glaciers, and the stunning Southern Alps on this three-hour guided kayaking tour in Franz Josef. Paddle deep into the heart of the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary via a rainforest creek and explore this protected natural environment with your knowledgeable kayak tour guide. No kayaking experience necessary. Please bring your own snacks, water bottle, camera, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Jeans are not recommended for this activity.

  • Three-hour guided kayaking tour in Franz Josef to the heart of the Okarito Kiwi Sanctuary
  • No previous kayaking experience necessary

Price: NZD 115

20 spots left

Glacier country kayaking guided tour

Cancellation policy

Refunds for deposits
We will hold your spot as soon as you put down your deposit. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to refund your deposit.

Refunds for balance payment
Your place is guaranteed at the time of full payment. However, if you decide to cancel your trip, we will be unable to offer any refunds for the amount paid.

NZD 3,565
Per person