BEST
OF THE SOUTH ISLAND
The Best of
the South Island tour is our answer to the question… “If
I only have two weeks in New Zealand, what should I do?” It’s
a total experience of the highest possible standard which includes
the most stunning scenery in the country, wilderness walks in pristine
places, high-end accommodations with a character and charm all of
their own, exceptional dining experiences… simply the best
of everything the country has to offer!
Swim with playful Dusky Dolphins in the “Serengeti of the
South Pacific”. Take an exclusive overnight cruise on Milford
Sound – rated the Eighth Wonder of the Natural World by Rudyard
Kipling. Sea kayak the exotic coastline of Abel Tasman National
Park. Explore the wild headlands and hidden beaches of the South
Island’s rugged West Coast, and take a day-hike through rainforest
and then onto the ice of Fox Glacier. Hike the famous Routeburn
Track, through ancient forests and amongst snow-capped mountains!
All-the-while staying in excellent accommodation and sampling the
best local cuisine. Incredible!
STYLE
This active adventure is suitable for anyone of average fitness.
Over days 1 through 10, we'll hike two to six miles daily. On days
11 through 13, we tackle the Routeburn Track which entails 25 miles
spread over three days. There will also be plenty of time to relax
or enjoy optional activities and excursions such sea kayaking. Meals
are served by our hosts, enjoyed in the best restaurants, or, in
the case of several picnic lunches, prepared by our guide. Lodgings
are the best available in keeping with the unique character of these
special areas... cozy bed and breakfast inns and boutique lodges,
unique hotels, and comfortable mountain huts (with hot showers!).
OPTIONS
An 11-day option is available if you don't want to hike the Routeburn
Track, or you are able to do any part of the trip for a pro-rated
fare. Let us know and we’ll organize a trip to suit you!
DAY 1: ARRIVE CHRISTCHURCH / EXPLORE THE CITY
Arrive in Christchurch - the most English city outside England.
Spend the afternoon exploring the city and sights, including a visit
to Cathedral Square in the heart of Christchurch which is built
in Gothic Revival style and symbolising the Church of England. Be
sure to look out for the Wizard, a famous eccentric who takes up
a soapbox most fine afternoons somewhere in the square. You can
also take a stroll along the banks of the Avon meandering through
the Botanical Gardens which have an amazing collection of exotic
and indigenous plants. Check out the Arts Centre opposite the Botanical
Gardens, or experience some Maori culture by visiting the Nga Hau
e Wha National Marae (a traditional complex of Maori buildings).
At 6pm you will meet your guide and group for a welcome dinner and
orientation. Overnight in Christchurch. D
DAY 2: KAIKOURA / SEAL COLONY
The morning begins with a drive north along the coast to the seaside
town of Kaikoura . Once a sleepy fishing village, Kaikoura is waking
up to its increasing popularity as one of the best places in the
world to view marine mammals. Referred to as the “Serengeti
of the South Pacific”, Kaikoura has an amazing variety of
whales, dolphins, and seals which feed in the krill-rich waters.
This afternoon we'll hike around the peninsula and observe seals
and sea birds as well as spectacular views of the surrounding coastal
mountains. That evening we stay at an historic convent turned charming
bed & breakfast lodge. B/L/D
DAY 3: DOLPHIN SWIM / ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK
Rise early this morning to greet the day with a pre-breakfast get
together with some of Kaikoura's more famous local personalities
- the playful Dusky Dolphins! With mask, snorkel, and fins we'll
have the opportunity to enter their world and swim amongst them.
If you'd prefer, stay on the boat and marvel at their acrobatic
displays. Then we drive north to the town of Nelson for lunch, known
for its beautiful beaches and local arts & crafts. In the afternoon
we continue up to the Abel Tasman National Park where we will spend
the next two nights exploring this magnificent area. B/L/D
DAY 4: SEA KAYAKING OR HIKING IN THE ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL
PARK
Today you are able to choose if you would like to sea kayak or hike.
The sea kayaking trip explores the many aspects of the natural environment
as you paddle along the impressive and diverse coastline of the
Abel Tasman National Park. Explore the many secluded bays and islands,
look for the friendly seal colonies, or simply take in the beautiful
environment and sun! Alternatively, if you would like to go hiking,
you will take a water taxi along the coastline deep into the National
Park. The hike explores the many golden sand beaches, crystal clear
bays and lush forest interior of the Abel Tasman National Park.
After a full day of activity enjoy the sunset from a seafood restaurant
overlooking the Tasman Bay. B/L/D
DAY 5: WEST COAST / PAPAROA NATIONAL PARK
Today it's on to the wild West Coast. At Cape Foulwind enjoy a coastal
hike and views of the Tasman Sea and surrounding Southern Alps.
New Zealand fur seals inhabit the rocky coastline and sea birds
soar about the cliff tops. Then we'll enjoy a relaxed lunch at a
café overlooking the breakers. In the afternoon we enter
Paparoa National Park. Our hike takes us along the Pororari River
through limestone landscapes and sub-tropical rainforest. Eventually
we emerge from the palm- and fern-filled forest to the sea. If you
like, you have the option of canoeing the Pororari River or mountain
biking along the bank. Take off your shoes and walk barefoot in
the sand to our lodgings for the night. That evening we enjoy a
barbecue by the beach. B/L/D
DAY 6: PANCAKE ROCKS / FOX GLACIER / WESTLAND NATIONAL PARK
A morning walk along the beach and a visit to the famous Pancake
Rocks and blowholes is a perfect way to start the day. Then it's
on to Westland National Park and the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers
stopping along the way at the old gold mining town of Hokitika,
now a center for local crafts. That afternoon we enjoy a walk through
a temperate rainforest for views of the glaciers. Alternatively,
there is an option to explore the Okarito Lagoon and its White Heron
colony by sea kayak. Overnight in Fox Glacier. B/L/D
DAY 7: HIKING ON THE ICE OF FOX GLACIER
This morning an early walk around Lake Matheson reveals the reflections
of New Zealand's highest peaks: Mounts Cook and Tasman. Then after
a hearty breakfast it's on to the glacier! Hoisting our alpenstocks,
we follow the guide as he cuts steps into the ice, leading us on
a journey of discovery through crevasses and over moraines. In recent
times, the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers have advanced far down the
mountains cutting a path of destruction through the surrounding
rock and rainforest. Overnight in Fox Glacier. B/L/D
DAY 8: SOUTH WEST NEW ZEALAND WORLD HERITAGE AREA / LAKE
WANAKA
The day begins as we wind our way along the World Heritage Highway.
A rainforest walk brings us to an isolated beach where we may catch
a glimpse of nesting penguins. Then it's up and over the Haast Pass
and along the beautiful shores of Lakes Hawea and Wanaka. In the
afternoon we'll make a brief stop to sample local wines at a picturesque
winery. Overnight at our Wanaka bed and breakfast lodge. B/L/D
DAY 9: OVERNIGHT CRUISE & SEA KAYAKING ON MILFORD SOUND
Drive through up-ended land which was carved, tumbled and jumbled
by grinding glaciers during the last ice age. Stop for short walks
at areas of interest in Fiordland National Park on the way to Milford
Sound. In the afternoon, board our vessel for a cruise through the
Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea. Anchor for the night in sheltered
Harrison Cove beneath the towering Mount Pembroke. Before sunset,
explore the fiord by sea kayak or tender craft or simply relax on
the deck of the vessel. Overnight onboard our luxury vessel with
private cabins & ensuite bathrooms enveloped by the majesty
of Milford Sound – simply the best way to experience Milford
Sound! B/L/D
DAY 10: MILFORD SOUND / FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK / TE ANAU
Wake to the silence and serenity of Milford Sound. After breakfast
we head ashore and take a short drive to the start of the Lake Marian
track. We’ll hike through Silver Beech forest, past a spectacular
series of waterfalls, and then our track ascends to a hanging valley,
formed by glacial action, where Lake Marian is nestled in one of
the most beautiful settings in Fiordland. The lake is above the
bush line and reflects the Darran Mountains which surround it. A
great spot for lunch! In the afternoon we’ll head to Te Anau,
a scenic lakeside town with the mountains of Fiordland National
Park forming an incredible backdrop. B/L/D
DAY 11: MILFORD SOUND / ROUTEBURN TRACK / FIORDLAND NATIONAL
PARK
We drive to the Divide to start the Routeburn Track. For the next
three days we'll hike hut-to-hut across the Southern Alps along
one of the most spectacular walks in the world. We'll stay in private
huts fully stocked with food, comfortable beds, flush toilets and
even hot showers! As we are doing the fully guided walk, you'll
hike with only an overnight pack containing your clothes and other
personal items. Start your hike through dense beech forests along
a well graded trail which winds above the tree line at Key Summit,
followed by a brief descent to Lake Howden . Then climb steadily
upwards to magnificent Earland Falls before descending to our hut
at Lake MacKenzie (hiking distance: 9 miles). B/L/D
11-DAY OPTION: After the night in Te Anau, you will return
back to Queenstown before departing.
DAY 12: ROUTEBURN TRACK / MOUNT ASPIRING NATIONAL PARK
We leave the emerald waters of Lake MacKenzie, traverse the zigzags
above the bush line (3,200 ft) and cross the dramatic alpine terrain
of the Hollyford Face. Descend from the Harris Saddle past Lake
Harris and into an immense alpine basin that is often carpeted by
wildflowers. Hike downward alongside a final pitch of cascading
waterfalls and then relax at the Routeburn Falls Huts (hiking distance:
9 miles). B/L/D
DAY 13: ROUTEBURN TRACK / QUEENSTOWN
Descend from the tiered cascades of Routeburn Falls to the alpine
meadows of Routeburn Flat. Wind alongside the deep green pools of
the Routeburn River (i.e., the “Route Burn”) and through
hearty beech forest to our waiting van (hiking distance: 7 miles).
In the late afternoon, we drive to our Queenstown lodge. That night
we’ll dine at one of Queenstown’s many fine restaurants
– it’ll be our last night celebration! B/L/D
DAY 14: DEPART QUEENSTOWN
After a relaxed gourmet breakfast there's often still time to explore
“The Adventure Capital of the World.” Sample an exciting
array of optional (and extra cost) activities including rafting,
canoeing, jet boating, bungy jumping, canyoning, hang gliding, skydiving,
horse trekking, fishing, vintage plane flights, glider flights,
or take a tour of local wineries or a boat across the lake for a
sheep station tour… and the list goes on!. Or just relax and
enjoy the atmosphere of sidewalk cafes in this alpine resort. If
your flight leaves early then perhaps take in a quiet stroll along
the lake or some last minute shopping before your transfer to the
Queenstown Airport for flights home or to continue another adventure.
B
That’s it – 14 Days of Serious
Fun!
COMMENTS
WHAT'S INCLUDED
As the name suggests, this tour includes the BEST the South Island
has to offer. Specifically: experienced local Kiwi guides; the finest
accommodations available; nearly all meals (in the best local restaurants
of each area); transportation in very comfortable vehicles with
spare seats, reading materials and snacks; sea kayaking in the Abel
Tasman National Park; luxury overnight cruise and sea kayaking on
Milford Sound; swimming with the Dusky Dolphins in Kaikoura; a guided
walk on Fox Glacier; the Routeburn Track guided walk; and various
other hikes in the South Island's best national parks. As everything
is already included, you will not need much spending money!
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
The only things not included are flights before or after the tour,
one dinner and one lunch, any activities mentioned as “optional”
in the itinerary, and expenses of a personal nature.
LAND PRICE (FULL 14-DAY TOUR)
NZ$5,950.00 Per Person
LAND PRICE (11-DAY OPTION: EXCLUDING THE ROUTEBURN TRACK)
NZ$4,950.00 Per Person
GROUP SIZE
Minimum 4 / Maximum 12
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Fun New Zealand
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P.O.
Box 972
Queenstown
New Zealand
Ph (643) 450-0415
Fax (643) 442-0923
Toll Free to our office in New Zealand:1 800 411 5724
Email: Info@seriousfunnewzealand.com
Web: www.seriousfunnewzealand.com |
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