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 $4,311 per person

Southern Spectacular

10 days

•

Start and end in Christchurch

4.9

12 traveler 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 January
5.0
View all

From

$4,790

-10%

US $4,311 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
Accommodation
Hotel (Distinction Christchurch Hotel)
Day 2
Christchurch - Lake Tekapo - Twizel
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel Twizel)
Included Activities
- Christchurch city tour including Cardboard Cathedral
- Tour of gilded library in Christchurch
- Be My Guest afternoon tea at local farmer's home at Lake Tekapo
- View Church of the Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo
Landmarks
Cardboard Cathedral
Church of the Good Shepherd
Lake Tekapo
Day 3
Twizel - Oamaru - Dunedin
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Scenic Hotel Southern Cross)
Included Activities
- Explore Oamaru Victorian streetscapes, shops and galleries
Optional Activities
- Visit sustainable gin distillery in Dunedin
- Larnach Castle tour - NZ$76 Adult / NZ$38 Child
Landmarks
Larnach Castle
Day 4
Dunedin - Fiordland National Park - Te Anau
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas)
Included Activities
- Travel through Fiordland National Park
- MAKE TRAVEL MATTER conservation experience at Pomona Island
- Jet boat ride down Waiau River to Lake Manapouri
Optional Activities
- Cruise to Glowworm Caves - Te Anau Glow Worm Caves Tour - NZ$98 Adult / NZ$30 Child
Landmarks
Fiordland National Park
Pomona Island
Lake Manapouri
Day 5
Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Millennium Hotel, Queenstown)
Included Activities
- Travel through Fiordland National Park with native rainforests and Mirror Lakes
- Milford Sound/Piopiotahi cruise with naturalist guide
Optional Activities
- Milford Sound flight back to Queenstown - NZ$420 Adult / NZ$260 Child
Landmarks
Milford Sound/Piopiotahi
Mirror Lakes
Day 6
Queenstown
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner (Gourmet BBQ dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm)
Accommodation
Hotel (Millennium Hotel, Queenstown)
Included Activities
- Cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard TSS Earnslaw steamship
- Gourmet BBQ dinner and farm show at Walter Peak High Country Farm
Optional Activities
- Shotover Jet Boat Ride - NZ$149 Adult / NZ$79 Child
- Skippers Canyon Scenic Tour & Jet Boat - NZ$195 Adult / NZ$115 Child
- Queenstown Boutique Wine Tour - NZ$199 Adult / NZ$139 Child
- Kiwi Birdlife Park - NZ$49 Adult / NZ$24 Child
- Lakeshore, Forest and Bird Guided Walk - NZ$115 Adult / NZ$75 Child
Landmarks
Lake Wakatipu
Walter Peak High Country Farm
Day 7
Queenstown - Arrowtown - Franz Josef/Waiau
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier)
Included Activities
- Explore Arrowtown's movie-set tree-lined avenues and 19th-century buildings
- Stop at Mrs Jones roadside stall
- View Franz Josef Glacier from panoramic viewpoint
Optional Activities
- Scenic helicopter flight over Franz Josef Glacier - The Helicopter Line Mountain Scenic Spectacular 40min Flight - NZ$480 Adult / NZ$336 Child
- Twin Glacier Scenic 30min Flight - NZ$350 Adult / NZ$245 Child
- Haast River Safari - NZ$109 Adult / NZ$59 Child
Landmarks
Arrowtown
Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere
Day 8
Franz Josef/Waiau - Hokitika - Punakaiki
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Scenic Hotel Punakaiki)
Included Activities
- Explore Hokitika West Coast
- View Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki
Landmarks
Hokitika
Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
Day 9
Punakaiki - Arthur's Pass - Christchurch
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch (Lunch at legendary Monteith's Brewery), Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Distinction Christchurch Hotel)
Included Activities
- Tour Pounamu Pathway cultural journey celebrating New Zealand's greenstone and Māori significance
- Lunch at Monteith's Brewery
- Journey aboard TranzAlpine train through Southern Alps with views of snow-capped peaks, rivers, and forests
Landmarks
Pounamu Pathway
Arthur's Pass
Monteith's Brewery
Day 10
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
Hokitika
Pancake Rocks and Blowholes

Landmarks
Pounamu Pathway
Arthur's Pass
Monteith's Brewery

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

Adventure Type

Choose the type of organized adventure that suits your preferences.

Group Adventures
Join a group and forge lifelong friendships.
What to expect
- Group of 50 travelers max.
- Fast booking confirmation
- Carefully planned itineraries
- Travel with like-minded people
Starting at
US $4,311 / traveler
Check availability
Personalized Adventures
Customize an existing itinerary or create your own.
What to expect
- Choose your preferred dates and duration
- Upgrade your accommodation
- Customize the itineraries
After requesting a quote, we will get back to you with a price based on your requirements.
Request quote

Operated by

AAT Kings

Gold Operator

Rating: 4.4(117 reviews)
Response time: within 2 days
Response rate: 90%
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

P
Patricia
April 16th, 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
P
Patricia
April 16th, 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
N
Norman
February 16th, 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
J
Janet
January 29th, 2024
Isabel and Stu were so knowledgeable and fun throughout the tour! What an educational and exciting tour.
Traveled in January 2024
S
Susan
November 18th, 2023
Great itinerary and guide. Hotels and food excellent.
Traveled in November 2023
Dorothy
April 29th, 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
J
Jane
April 28th, 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
T
Trevor
March 26th, 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
M
Michael
February 11th, 2023
Fantastic Best vacation
Traveled in January 2023
J
Joanne
January 20th, 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 on 24 Jun, 2026

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
Sign up and save up to $239
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
Sign up and save up to $246
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
Sign up and save up to $246
From Tuesday
3 Nov, 2026
To Thursday
12 Nov, 2026
This departure date is not available or sold out
Sold out
From:
US $4,699 per person
Sign up and save up to $234
See Similar Tours For These Dates
Instant Confirmation
From Tuesday
10 Nov, 2026
To Thursday
19 Nov, 2026
English
Filling Fast
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
US $4,793 per person
Multiple Room Types
Sign up and save up to $239
Instant Confirmation
-8%
From Tuesday
17 Nov, 2026
To Thursday
26 Nov, 2026
English
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This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$4,699
US $4,323 per person
Multiple Room Types
Sign up and save up to $216
Instant Confirmation
From Tuesday
24 Nov, 2026
To Thursday
3 Dec, 2026
English
Filling Fast
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
US $4,793 per person
Multiple Room Types
Sign up and save up to $239
Instant Confirmation
From Tuesday
8 Dec, 2026
To Thursday
17 Dec, 2026
English
Filling Fast
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
US $4,793 per person
Multiple Room Types
Sign up and save up to $239
Instant Confirmation
From Tuesday
22 Dec, 2026
To Thursday
31 Dec, 2026
English
Filling Fast
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
US $4,934 per person
Multiple Room Types
Sign up and save up to $246
From Tuesday
5 Jan, 2027
To Thursday
14 Jan, 2027
This departure date is not available or sold out
Sold out
From:
US $4,699 per person
Sign up and save up to $234
See Similar Tours For These Dates

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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 $4,311 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 August 23rd, 2026 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after August 23rd, 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 - Lake Tekapo - Twizel

Included Activities

Twizel - Oamaru - Dunedin

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Dunedin - Fiordland National Park - Te Anau

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Queenstown

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Queenstown - Arrowtown - Franz Josef/Waiau

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Franz Josef/Waiau - Hokitika - Punakaiki

Included Activities

Punakaiki - Arthur's Pass - Christchurch

Included Activities

Christchurch

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What's Included

What's Not Included

Where You'll Stay

Adventure Type

Traveler Moments

Traveler Reviews

Dates & Availability

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Why book with TourRadar?

What our customers ask about this tour

Good to Know

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Keep Exploring New Zealand

Southern Spectacular

Itinerary

Included Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Optional 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

Adventure Type

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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Good to Know

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