I live in NZ and have an Austrian friend visiting in April interested in a South Island tour. The Southern Spectacular looks a good fit for her but she flies into Auckland (from Japan) morning of 16 April (your tour starts 15 April in Christchurch). She could fly to Christchurch on her arrival on the 16th to catch up with you. So I'm wondering what time you leave Christchurch on the 16th? If she can't make it there in time do you have a recommendation for how she could meet up with you in Twizel or any other way of handling?

The tour will depart from Christchurch by 10:00 AM on the 16th of April 2025. If the guest will not possible to arrive on that time, our operations team advised that she/he needs to arrange a private transfer going to Twizel to join the tour.

What sort of travel support is offered during the tour?

Comprehensive support includes access to a tour director and local guides who are available to assist with any issues during your trip. Additionally, emergency contact numbers are provided.

What is the maximum group size for the tours?

The tours are designed for various group sizes, with some tours suitable for smaller groups for a more personalized experience, while others can accommodate larger groups for a social traveling experience.

What are the age requirements for travelers on the tour?

Travelers of all ages are welcome; however, minors must be accompanied by an adult and some activities may have age restrictions.

l plan to land in Christchurch on Apr 22, 0.05am. Should i book the tour on Apr 22-May 1, or Apr 23-May 2?

Apologies, the Southern Spectacular tour on 22-Apr-2025 is not available anymore and we do not have scheduled tour for 21st of April for this tour. The next available departure date we can offer is the 1st of July 2025 and it was currently on request status.

What type of transport is used between tour locations?

Transportation varies depending on the tour and can include buses, trains, or other local transport options. It’s designed to enhance the tour experience by allowing scenic commutes between locations.

My wife and I are in our 70s. Is this a suitable trip. Also, what meals are included

The tour is designed for individuals with a low level of fitness, and most of our guests are typically within your age group. Please be aware that the motorcoach has steep stairs for entry and exit. Should you have any concerns about accessibility, kindly provide us with your specific requirements so that our operations team can assess the tour's suitability for you. We frequently accommodate guests using foldable wheelchairs and walkers, but advance notice would be appreciated. Regarding meals, the tour package includes 9 full buffet breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 'Be My Guest' afternoon tea, 1 highlight dinner, 5 dinners with wine, and 1 farewell dinner.

Is there a single supplement available and how much

The tour Southern Spectacular is currently available and a definite departure. The price for single supplement booking is $7,939.00 AUD

How can I pay for the tour?

Payments can be made via several methods including credit card, bank transfer, or online payment platforms. Specific payment options available will be detailed once you choose your tour package.

What are the visa requirements for international travelers?

Visa requirements vary by country. Travelers are advised to check entry requirements based on their personal circumstances and the countries they are visiting.

From

$4,790

US $4,315 per person

Southern Spectacular

10 days

•

Start and end in Christchurch

4.9 (12 reviews)

View all
Truly a trip of a lifetime! Well planned and organized. I felt very safe and comfortable traveling solo in this group bus tour.
Joanne•traveled in January5.0
View all

From

$4,790

-10%

US $4,315 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Select Date

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

Gold Operator: AAT Kings
Adventure & Adrenaline: Seek thrilling adventures that keep you moving
Group Tour: Join a group and forge lifelong friendships
Fully Guided: An experienced guide will be with you for the entire tour
Low Intensity: Travelers can expect some light physical activities
Guided in English
Group Size 20 - 50
All Ages Welcome

Image of a map showing the route of the tour

Itinerary

Day 1
Christchurch
Christchurch
Accommodation
Hotel (Distinction Christchurch Hotel)
Day 2
Christchurch - Twizel
Christchurch - Twizel
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel Twizel)
Included Activities
- Christchurch city tour including Cardboard Cathedral
- Be My Guest afternoon tea at retired farmers' home, Lake Tekapo
- Visit Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Tekapo
Landmarks
Cardboard Cathedral
Church of the Good Shepherd
Lake Tekapo
Day 3
Twizel - Dunedin
Twizel - Dunedin
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Scenic Hotel Southern Cross)
Included Activities
- Explore Oamaru's Victorian streetscapes, shops and galleries
Optional Activities
- Sustainable gin distillery visit
- Larnach Castle tour
Landmarks
Larnach Castle
Day 4
Dunedin - Te Anau
Dunedin - Te Anau
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas)
Included Activities
- MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience - conservation work on Pomona Island
- Jet boat ride down Waiau River to Lake Manapouri
Optional Activities
- Glowworm Caves cruise
Landmarks
Fiordland National Park
Pomona Island
Lake Manapouri
Day 5
Te Anau - Queenstown
Te Anau - Queenstown
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Millennium Hotel, Queenstown)
Included Activities
- Milford Sound/Piopiotahi cruise with naturalist guide
Landmarks
Milford Sound/Piopiotahi
Mirror Lakes
Day 6
Queenstown
Queenstown
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner (Gourmet barbecue dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm)
Accommodation
Hotel (Millennium Hotel, Queenstown)
Included Activities
- Lake Wakatipu cruise aboard TSS Earnslaw steamship
- Gourmet barbecue dinner and farm show at Walter Peak High Country Farm
Optional Activities
- High-octane jet boat ride
- Central Otago wine cellar door tour
Landmarks
Lake Wakatipu
Walter Peak High Country Farm
Day 7
Queenstown - Franz Josef/Waiau
Queenstown - Franz Josef/Waiau
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier)
Included Activities
- Explore Arrowtown
- Visit Franz Josef Glacier scenic viewpoint
Optional Activities
- Scenic helicopter flight over Franz Josef Glacier with possible landing on glacier
Landmarks
Arrowtown
Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere
Day 8
Franz Josef/Waiau - Punakaiki
Franz Josef/Waiau - Punakaiki
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Scenic Hotel Punakaiki)
Included Activities
- Explore Hokitika
- Visit Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
Landmarks
Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
Day 9
Punakaiki - Christchurch
Punakaiki - Christchurch
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch (Lunch at Monteith's Brewery), Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Distinction Christchurch Hotel)
Included Activities
- Ponaumu Pathway cultural experience
- Lunch at Monteith's Brewery
- TranzAlpine scenic train journey to Christchurch
Landmarks
Ponaumu Pathway
Arthur's Pass
Day 10
Christchurch
Christchurch

Landmarks
Cardboard Cathedral
Church of the Good Shepherd
Lake Tekapo

Landmarks
Larnach Castle

Landmarks
Fiordland National Park
Pomona Island
Lake Manapouri

Landmarks
Milford Sound/Piopiotahi
Mirror Lakes

Landmarks
Lake Wakatipu
Walter Peak High Country Farm

Landmarks
Arrowtown
Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere

Landmarks
Pancake Rocks and Blowholes

Landmarks
Ponaumu Pathway
Arthur's Pass

What's Included

Expand All

Accommodation
Guide
Meals
Additional Services
Transport

What's Not Included

Flights
Insurance
Optional
Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

All accommodations are subject to change

Distinction Christchurch Hotel
Hotel
Days 1, 9
Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel Twizel
Hotel
day 2
Scenic Hotel Southern Cross
Hotel
day 3
Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas
Hotel
day 4
Millennium Hotel, Queenstown
Hotel
Days 5, 6
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
Hotel
day 7
Scenic Hotel Punakaiki
Hotel
day 8

Operated by

AAT Kings

Gold Operator

Rating: 4.4 (118 reviews)
Response time: within 2 days
Response rate: 62%
Cancellation policy

Traveler Moments

Traveler Reviews

4.9

Overall rating based on 12 Reviews

Itinerary
4.8
Transport
5.0
Guide
5.0
Accommodation
4.8
Food
4.7
Tour Operator
4.4

Patricia5.0•April 2024
I would highly recommend Isobel and driver Mark. They paid very good attention to detail and the comfort of the...
I would highly recommend Isobel and driver Mark. They paid very good attention to detail and the comfort of the clients. I felt safe and secure as Mark's driving was very competent and Isobel was delightful, patient ans fun. She is a real people person with extensive knowledge of the areas visited, legends of the indigenous peoples, thinterpretation of place names and history. Mark and Isobel worked well together, meal times, departure times and other important information was provided well in advance. Good provision was made for frequent stops for toilet breaks and the purchase of refreshments. I likes the attention to time keeping.Show more
Traveled in March 2024
Patricia5.0•April 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed my tour. The guide, Isobel, paid very good attention to details and the comfort of her...
I thoroughly enjoyed my tour. The guide, Isobel, paid very good attention to details and the comfort of her tourists.I felt safe and secure in the bus as Mark's driving was very competent and Isobel was delightful, patient and full of fun, a real people person.She and Mark worked well together, meal times, departure times and other important information was provided well in advance. Good provision was made for frequent stops to allow for toilet breaks and the purchase of refreshments. I liked their attention to time keeping. For me, everything worked smoothly which made the tour relaxed and stress free. I would highly recommend Isobel and Mark.Show more
Traveled in March 2024
Norman5.0•February 2024
Overall an excellent tour. But it was surprising and disappointing that in some of the hotels, the shower was in the...
Show more
Traveled in February 2024
Janet5.0•January 2024
Isabel and Stu were so knowledgeable and fun throughout the tour! What an educational and exciting tour.
Traveled in January 2024
Susan5.0•November 2023
Great itinerary and guide. Hotels and food excellent.
Traveled in November 2023
Dorothy5.0•April 2023
My tour was wonderful, awesome scenic views and fantastic tour guides and driver! Everywhere we stopped was...
My tour was wonderful, awesome scenic views and fantastic tour guides and driver! Everywhere we stopped was spectacular! The towns and villages all had their own special charm! The hotels were very nice and amenities good! The food was very good! I especially enjoyed Angie and Stan’s cooking afternoon! My photographs are extraordinarily memorable! I was so happy to meet the other people on the tour and we all had a great time together! I would recommend this tour to anyone wanting to see the South Island!Show more
Traveled in April 2023
Jane4.0•April 2023
Great tour host, great driver. No name tags that made it a little more difficult to get to know people. Great scenery...
Show more
Traveled in April 2023
Trevor5.0•March 2023
The 10 day tour of the South Island was well planned and a great experience.. Both the driver and tour guide were...
Show more
Traveled in February 2023
Michael5.0•February 2023
Fantastic Best vacation
Traveled in January 2023
Joanne5.0•January 2023
We saw so much of the South Island of New Zealand—truly a trip of a lifetime! Well planned and organized. I felt very...
Show more
Traveled in December 2022

Dates & Availability

Select departure month and travellers

Select Date

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Upcoming departures

Hurry, deals only available for a limited time!

Ends in1d1h41m57s

From Tuesday
22 Sep, 2026
To Thursday
1 Oct, 2026
English
Almost Sold Out
Check the availability with the operator
Departure on request
From:
US $4,788 per person
Multiple Room Types
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From Tuesday
13 Oct, 2026
To Thursday
22 Oct, 2026
English
Almost Sold Out
Check the availability with the operator
Departure on request
From:
US $4,934 per person
Multiple Room Types
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From Tuesday
27 Oct, 2026
To Thursday
5 Nov, 2026
English
Almost Sold Out
Check the availability with the operator
Departure on request
From:
US $4,934 per person
Multiple Room Types
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Instant Confirmation
From Tuesday
10 Nov, 2026
To Thursday
19 Nov, 2026
English
Filling Fast
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Guaranteed departure
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Multiple Room Types
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Instant Confirmation
-8%
From Tuesday
17 Nov, 2026
To Thursday
26 Nov, 2026
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Guaranteed departure
From:
$4,699
US $4,323 per person
Multiple Room Types
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Instant Confirmation
From Tuesday
24 Nov, 2026
To Thursday
3 Dec, 2026
English
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Instant Confirmation
From Tuesday
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To Thursday
17 Dec, 2026
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This departure date is available and will 100% depart
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Multiple Room Types
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From Tuesday
22 Dec, 2026
To Thursday
31 Dec, 2026
This departure date is not available or sold out
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From Tuesday
5 Jan, 2027
To Thursday
14 Jan, 2027
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1 Other Unavailable Departure
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From Tuesday
12 Jan, 2027
To Thursday
21 Jan, 2027
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What our customers ask about this tour

The content in our FAQ section is subject to change.

All questions

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Try a different search term or ask a question to this adventure's experts

N
Nicola
Asked on February 20th, 2025
I live in NZ and have an Austrian friend visiting in April interested in a South Island tour. The Southern Spectacular looks a good fit for her but she flies into Auckland (from Japan) morning of 16 April (your tour starts 15 April in Christchurch). She could fly to Christchurch on her arrival on the 16th to catch up with you. So I'm wondering what time you leave Christchurch on the 16th? If she can't make it there in time do you have a recommendation for how she could meet up with you in Twizel or any other way of handling?
Flights / Transfers
Tour Details
- AAT KingsOperator•Written February 2025
  The tour will depart from Christchurch by 10:00 AM on the 16th of April 2025. If the guest will not possible to arrive on that time, our operations team advised that she/he needs to arrange a private transfer going to Twizel to join the tour.
- N
  Nicola
  Traveler•Written February 2025
  If my friend is able to join the tour it looks like it'll have to be in Dunedin, would there be a price discount for the days she will not enjoy the tour?
- AAT KingsOperator•Written February 2025
  Regrettably, we cannot provide a discount for the missed dates due to late arrival, as the payment covers the entire trip cost. However, we can offer some discounts if your companion has traveled with us before or holds a concessionaire discount.
M
Marian
Asked on January 4th, 2025
What sort of travel support is offered during the tour?
Travel Support
- AAT KingsOperator•Written January 2025
  Comprehensive support includes access to a tour director and local guides who are available to assist with any issues during your trip. Additionally, emergency contact numbers are provided.
G
Graciela
Asked on December 20th, 2024
What is the maximum group size for the tours?
Group size
- AAT KingsOperator•Written December 2024
  The tours are designed for various group sizes, with some tours suitable for smaller groups for a more personalized experience, while others can accommodate larger groups for a social traveling experience.
T
Tanya
Asked on December 15th, 2024
What are the age requirements for travelers on the tour?
Age Range
- AAT KingsOperator•Written December 2024
  Travelers of all ages are welcome; however, minors must be accompanied by an adult and some activities may have age restrictions.
R
Rachael
Asked on November 2nd, 2024
l plan to land in Christchurch on Apr 22, 0.05am. Should i book the tour on Apr 22-May 1, or Apr 23-May 2?
Flights / Transfers
Tour Details
- AAT KingsOperator•Written November 2024
  Apologies, the Southern Spectacular tour on 22-Apr-2025 is not available anymore and we do not have scheduled tour for 21st of April for this tour. The next available departure date we can offer is the 1st of July 2025 and it was currently on request status.
M
Marije
Asked on September 19th, 2024
What type of transport is used between tour locations?
Transport
- AAT KingsOperator•Written September 2024
  Transportation varies depending on the tour and can include buses, trains, or other local transport options. It’s designed to enhance the tour experience by allowing scenic commutes between locations.
M
Monica
Asked on September 9th, 2024
My wife and I are in our 70s. Is this a suitable trip. Also, what meals are included
Age Range
Meals
- AAT KingsOperator•Written September 2024
  The tour is designed for individuals with a low level of fitness, and most of our guests are typically within your age group. Please be aware that the motorcoach has steep stairs for entry and exit. Should you have any concerns about accessibility, kindly provide us with your specific requirements so that our operations team can assess the tour's suitability for you. We frequently accommodate guests using foldable wheelchairs and walkers, but advance notice would be appreciated. Regarding meals, the tour package includes 9 full buffet breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 'Be My Guest' afternoon tea, 1 highlight dinner, 5 dinners with wine, and 1 farewell dinner.
A
Antonio
Asked on August 10th, 2024
Is there a single supplement available and how much
Price / Availability
Single supplement
- AAT KingsOperator•Written August 2024
  The tour Southern Spectacular is currently available and a definite departure. The price for single supplement booking is $7,939.00 AUD
H
Holly
Asked on July 10th, 2024
How can I pay for the tour?
Payments
- AAT KingsOperator•Written July 2024
  Payments can be made via several methods including credit card, bank transfer, or online payment platforms. Specific payment options available will be detailed once you choose your tour package.
K
Kimberly
Asked on April 3rd, 2024
What are the visa requirements for international travelers?
Visa
- AAT KingsOperator•Written April 2024
  Visa requirements vary by country. Travelers are advised to check entry requirements based on their personal circumstances and the countries they are visiting.

From

$4,790

-10%

US $4,315 per person

Price based on Cheapest Room

Price based on Shared Room

Price based on Private Single Room

Price based on Private Double Room

Select Date

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

Good to Know

Tour ID: 137139

Currency
$
New Zealand Dollar
New Zealand
Plugs & Adapters
As a traveler from USA, Canada, England, South Africa you will need an adaptor for type I.
Type I
New Zealand
Visa
- Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
- Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
Payment information
- For any tour departing before October 7th, 2026 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after October 7th, 2026, a minimum payment of $200 is required to confirm your booking with AAT Kings. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
- Some departure dates and prices may vary and AAT Kings will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
- The following cards are accepted for "AAT Kings" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
Cancellation Policy
- Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
- TourRadar is an authorized Agent of AAT Kings. Please familiarize yourself with the AAT Kings payment, cancellation and refund conditions.
Accessibility
Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveler, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team, who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Southern Spectacular

Itinerary

Christchurch

Christchurch - Twizel

Included Activities

Twizel - Dunedin

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Dunedin - Te Anau

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Te Anau - Queenstown

Included Activities

Queenstown

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Queenstown - Franz Josef/Waiau

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Franz Josef/Waiau - Punakaiki

Included Activities

Punakaiki - Christchurch

Included Activities

Christchurch

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What's Included

What's Not Included

Where You'll Stay

Traveler Moments

Traveler Reviews

Dates & Availability

Want to read it later?

Why book with TourRadar?

What our customers ask about this tour

Good to Know

Videos

Keep Exploring New Zealand

Southern Spectacular

Itinerary

Included Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

Want to read it later?

What's Included

What's Not Included

Where You'll Stay

Traveler Moments

Traveler Reviews

Dates & Availability

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Why book with TourRadar?

What our customers ask about this tour

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