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

$4,690

US $4,315 per person

Southern Spectacular

10 days

•

Start and end in Christchurch

4.9 (12 reviews)

View all
The towns and villages all had their own special charm! The hotels were very nice and amenities good!
Dorothy•traveled in April5.0
View all

From

$4,690

8% off

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

AAT Kings offers 5% discount for past passengers, saving $216

Select departure month

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Pay only $200 today. The rest is due 65 days before departure. Learn more

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

Gold Operator: AAT Kings
City & Culture: Immerse yourself in rich history and local traditions
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

TourRadar earns higher commission on featured adventures here.

Image of a map showing the route of the tour

Itinerary

Intro
Introduction
Day 1
Christchurch
Christchurch
Accommodation
Hotel (Distinction Christchurch)
Optional Activities
- Explore Christchurch city
Day 2
Christchurch - Lake Tekapo - Twizel
Christchurch - Lake Tekapo - Twizel
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Distinction Mackenzie Country Twizel)
Included Activities
- Guided Christchurch city tour including Cardboard Cathedral
- Be My Guest afternoon tea at Lake Tekapo with retired farmers
- Visit Church of the Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo
Landmarks
Cardboard Cathedral
Church of the Good Shepherd
Lake Tekapo
Day 3
Twizel - Oamaru - Dunedin
Twizel - Oamaru - Dunedin
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Scenic Hotel Southern Cross)
Included Activities
- Explore Oamaru's Victorian streetscapes, shops, and galleries
Optional Activities
- Visit sustainable gin distillery
- Tour Larnach Castle
Landmarks
Larnach Castle
Day 4
Dunedin - Lake Manapouri - Te Anau
Dunedin - Lake Manapouri - Te Anau
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas)
Included Activities
- Jet boat ride down Waiau River to Lake Manapouri with participation in conservation project on Pomona Island
Optional Activities
- Cruise to Glowworm Caves
Landmarks
Lake Manapouri
Pomona Island
Glowworm Caves
Day 5
Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown
Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Millennium Queenstown)
Included Activities
- Mirror Lakes viewpoint
- Cruise Milford Sound/Piopiotahi with naturalist guide
Landmarks
Mirror Lakes
Milford Sound / Piopiotahi
Day 6
Queenstown
Queenstown
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner (Gourmet barbecue dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm)
Accommodation
Hotel (Millennium Queenstown)
Included Activities
- Cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard historic TSS Earnslaw steamship
- Gourmet barbecue dinner and farm show at Walter Peak High Country Farm
Optional Activities
- High-octane jet boat ride
- Cellar door wine tasting tour of Central Otago pinot vineyards
Landmarks
TSS Earnslaw
Lake Wakatipu
Walter Peak High Country Farm
Day 7
Queenstown - Arrowtown - Waiau (Franz Josef)
Queenstown - Arrowtown - Waiau (Franz Josef)
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Scenic Franz Josef Glacier)
Included Activities
- Visit Franz Josef Glacier from panoramic viewpoint
Optional Activities
- Scenic helicopter flight over Franz Josef Glacier with optional landing on glacier
- Stop at Mrs Jones roadside fruit stall
Landmarks
Franz Josef Glacier / Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere
Day 8
Waiau (Franz Josef) - Hokitika - Punakaiki
Waiau (Franz Josef) - Hokitika - Punakaiki
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Scenic Punakaiki)
Included Activities
- Visit Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
Optional Activities
- Explore Hokitika's West Coast shoreline
Landmarks
Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
Hokitika
Day 9
Punakaiki - Arthur's Pass - Christchurch
Punakaiki - Arthur's Pass - Christchurch
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch (Lunch at Monteith's Brewery), Dinner
Accommodation
Hotel (Distinction Christchurch)
Included Activities
- Pounamu Pathway self-guided tour celebrating Māori greenstone and culture
- Lunch at Monteith's Brewery
- Scenic TranzAlpine train journey from Arthur's Pass to Christchurch
Landmarks
Pounamu Pathway
Mawhera Pa settlement
Monteith's Brewery
Arthur's Pass
Day 10
Christchurch
Christchurch

Landmarks
Cardboard Cathedral
Church of the Good Shepherd
Lake Tekapo

Landmarks
Larnach Castle

Landmarks
Lake Manapouri
Pomona Island
Glowworm Caves

Landmarks
Mirror Lakes
Milford Sound / Piopiotahi

Landmarks
TSS Earnslaw
Lake Wakatipu
Walter Peak High Country Farm

Landmarks
Franz Josef Glacier / Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere

Landmarks
Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
Hokitika

Landmarks
Pounamu Pathway
Mawhera Pa settlement
Monteith's Brewery
Arthur's Pass

Accommodation
Guide
Meals
Additional Services
Transport

What's Not Included

Flights
Insurance
Optional
Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

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

All accommodations are subject to change

Operated by

AAT Kings

Gold Operator

Rating: 4.4 (118 reviews)
Response time: within 3 days
Response rate: 72%
Cancellation policy: Learn more

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 & Prices

Select departure month

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Upcoming departures

Hurry, deals only available for a limited time!

Ends in1d1h42m44s

From Tuesday
10 Nov, 2026
To Thursday
19 Nov, 2026
English
Almost Sold Out
Check the availability with the operator
Departure on request
From:
US$4,793 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
From Tuesday
17 Nov, 2026
To Thursday
26 Nov, 2026
English
Almost Sold Out
Check the availability with the operator
Departure on request
From:
US$4,323 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
From Tuesday
24 Nov, 2026
To Thursday
3 Dec, 2026
English
Almost Sold Out
Check the availability with the operator
Departure on request
From:
US$4,323 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
From Tuesday
8 Dec, 2026
To Thursday
17 Dec, 2026
English
Almost Sold Out
Check the availability with the operator
Departure on request
From:
US$4,699 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
From Tuesday
22 Dec, 2026
To Thursday
31 Dec, 2026
English
Almost Sold Out
Check the availability with the operator
Departure on request
From:
US$5,028 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
Instant Confirmation
From Tuesday
12 Jan, 2027
To Thursday
21 Jan, 2027
English
Filling Fast
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
US$4,699 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
From Tuesday
26 Jan, 2027
To Thursday
4 Feb, 2027
This departure date is not available or sold out
Sold out
From:
US$4,793 per person
See Similar Tours For These Dates
Instant Confirmation
8% off
From Tuesday
2 Feb, 2027
To Thursday
11 Feb, 2027
English
This departure date is available and will 100% depart
Guaranteed departure
From:
$4,699
US$4,323 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
From Tuesday
9 Feb, 2027
To Thursday
18 Feb, 2027
English
Almost Sold Out
Check the availability with the operator
Departure on request
From:
US$4,934 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room
From Tuesday
16 Feb, 2027
To Thursday
25 Feb, 2027
English
Almost Sold Out
Check the availability with the operator
Departure on request
From:
US$4,934 per person
Sign up to unlock savings
Price based on Private Double Room

Why book with TourRadar?

Trusted and vetted operators
Rated excellent on
Best price guarantee

24/7 customer support
Unlock exclusive TourRadar+ member savings

To protect your payment and ensure your booking will be processed in United States, never transfer or communicate outside of the TourRadar website or app.

More benefits

What our customers ask about this tour

The content in our FAQ section is subject to change.

All questions

We couldn't find results

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.

Good to know

Tour ID: 137139

The practical details for your trip across New Zealand: money, plugs and flexible ways to pay, all in one place.

Have a question? Chat with a travel expert

Pay in installments
Spread the cost in interest-free biweekly installments of $202.
Deposit only
Book now with just a $200 deposit. The remaining balance is due 65 days before departure.
$ - New Zealand Dollar
You’ll encounter New Zealand Dollar in New Zealand.
Plug type I
You’ll need an adapter for these sockets in New Zealand.

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
  Used in New Zealand
Visa
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality and how long you stay. We can’t process visas for you, but here’s a quick indication for this trip.
This is only an indication. Visa rules depend on your passport, trip length and purpose. Always confirm with the official embassy or consulate before you travel.
Payment information
Pay now
A $200 deposit
Balance due
65 days before departure
Installments
Interest-free, every two weeks
Currency
USD
Booking fee
None
Book now with just a $200 deposit and pay the rest later. The remaining balance is due 65 days before departure, charged automatically to your card, or you can split it into interest-free biweekly installments of $202 at checkout. Everything is charged in USD, and TourRadar never adds a booking fee. Any trip departing before January 6th, 2027 will need to be paid in full at checkout.
Accepted for AAT Kings tours
Visa
Maestro
Mastercard
American Express
PayPal
TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation terms may vary per tour. Please check for the full cancellation policy here.
Checking the cancellation terms for this tour…
Your money is protected. TourRadar is an authorized agent of AAT Kings, and we handle payments so you don’t have to. Payment is securely transferred to the operator based on your departure date.
Insurance
Our travel protection from our award-winning partner, XCover, means you and your travel companions can book with peace of mind knowing there’s protection available in case your trip doesn’t go to plan. At checkout you will be able to select between different options in case you or the tour are eligible for insurance. In case no option is available, you are always able to purchase travel insurance outside of TourRadar.
Checking which travel protection options are available for you…
Best price guarantee
Found a lower price for the same tour elsewhere? We work directly with every tour operator, so we can match it.
How it works
Find a lower price
Spot the same tour cheaper on another site or agency.
Send us the quote
Contact us before you book.
We match it
If the quote qualifies, you book with us at that price.
Your quote needs
Same tour and operator
Same start and end dates
Same number of travelers
Same inclusions and destinations
Same booking and cancellation terms, in the same currency
A link to the site or agency offering it
What doesn’t count
Quotes issued more than 24 hours ago
Cash back or loyalty program rebates
Itineraries that are similar but not identical
Similar tours run by a different operator
Bookings already confirmed on TourRadar
Every new booking also counts toward your , which unlocks extra savings.
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.
People also viewed
Great Barrier Reef Tours
Great Migration Safari
Sailing in Thailand
Caribbean Sailing Vacations
Timeless Japan
Scenic Scandinavia and its Fjords
Nepal Vista

From

$4,690

8% off

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

AAT Kings offers 5% discount for past passengers, saving $216

Select departure month

1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Pay only $200 today. The rest is due 65 days before departure. Learn more

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

Videos from AAT Kings

AAT Kings
AAT Kings - Meet Mark and New Zealand
Explore Australia and New Zealand with AAT Kings

Southern Spectacular

Explore our featured adventures

Itinerary

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Included Activities

Want to read it later?

What's Included

What's Not Included

Where You'll Stay

Traveler Moments

Traveler Reviews

Dates & Prices

Want to read it later?

Why book with TourRadar?

What our customers ask about this tour

Pay in installments

Deposit only

$ - New Zealand Dollar

Plug type I

Currency

Plugs & adapters

Visa

Payment information

Accepted for AAT Kings tours

Cancellation Policy

Insurance

Best price guarantee

How it works

Your quote needs

What doesn’t count

Accessibility

People also viewed

Earn while you share

Videos from AAT Kings

Keep Exploring New Zealand

Like this Moment?