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2026

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2027

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2028

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Who is travelling?

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0

Southern Spectacular (2025/2026)

10 days
Start and end in Christchurch
4.9
12 traveler reviews

No departure dates available

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Plan your adventure:
In-depth Cultural
Immerse yourself in rich history and local traditions
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

  1. Day 1

    Christchurch

    Accommodation
    Hotel (Distinction Christchurch Hotel)
  2. Day 2

    Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

    Meals
    Breakfast, Dinner
    Accommodation
    Hotel (Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel Twizel)

    Included Activities

    • Guided Christchurch city tour including Cardboard Cathedral and library
    • Be My Guest afternoon tea at Lake Tekapo with local farmers Angie and Stan Taylor
    • Visit Church of the Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo
    Landmarks
    Cardboard Cathedral
    Church of the Good Shepherd
    Lake Tekapo
  3. Day 3

    Oamaru - Dunedin

    Accommodation
    Hotel (Scenic Hotel Southern Cross)

    Optional Activities

    • Visit sustainable gin distillery
    • Tour Larnach Castle
    • Monarch Larnach Castle Tour
    • Monarch Wildlife Cruise
    • Taieri Gorge Railway
    Landmarks
    Larnach Castle
  4. Day 4

    Dunedin to Lake Manapouri

    Meals
    Breakfast, Dinner
    Accommodation
    Hotel (Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas)

    Included Activities

    • Jet boat ride down Waiau River to Lake Manapouri
    • Participation in conservation project at Pomona Island

    Optional Activities

    • Glowworm Caves cruise (own expense)
    • Te Anau Glow Worm Caves Tour (NZ$98 Adult NZ$30 Child)
    Landmarks
    Fiordland National Park
    Lake Manapouri
    Pomona Island
  5. Day 5

    Te Anau to Milford Sound

    Meals
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation
    Hotel (Millennium Hotel, Queenstown)

    Included Activities

    • Guided Milford Sound/Piopiotahi cruise with naturalist guide
    • View Mirror Lakes and alpine scenery
    • Fiordland National Park scenic journey

    Optional Activities

    • Milford Sound flight back to Queenstown (NZ$420 Adult NZ$260 Child)
    Landmarks
    Fiordland National Park
    Mirror Lakes
    Milford Sound/Piopiotahi
    Itinerary Image 1Itinerary Image 2Itinerary Image 3
  6. Day 6

    Queenstown

    Meals
    Breakfast, Dinner (Gourmet barbecue dinner and farm show at Walter Peak High Country Farm)
    Accommodation
    Hotel (Millennium Hotel, Queenstown)

    Included Activities

    • Cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard TSS Earnslaw historic steamship
    • Gourmet barbecue dinner and farm show at Walter Peak High Country Farm

    Optional Activities

    • High-octane jet boat ride
    • Central Otago cellar door wine tour
    • 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)
    • Shotover Jet Boat Ride (NZ$149 Adult NZ$79 Child)
    • Skippers Canyon Scenic Tour & Jet Boat (NZ$195 Adult NZ$115 Child)
    Landmarks
    Lake Wakatipu
    Walter Peak High Country Farm
    TSS Earnslaw
    Itinerary Image 1Itinerary Image 2
  7. Day 7

    Queenstown to Franz Josef

    Meals
    Breakfast, Dinner
    Accommodation
    Hotel (Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier)

    Included Activities

    • Visit Arrowtown
    • Scenic journey through Central Otago countryside
    • View Franz Josef Glacier from scenic viewpoint

    Optional Activities

    • Scenic helicopter flight over Franz Josef Glacier with possible glacier landing (The Helicopter Line - Mountain Scenic Spectacular 40min Flight NZ$480 Adult NZ$336 Child; The Helicopter Line - Twin Glacier Scenic 30min Flight NZ$350 Adult NZ$245 Child)
    • Haast River Safari (NZ$109 Adult NZ$59 Child)
    Landmarks
    Arrowtown
    The Remarkables
    Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere
  8. Day 8

    Franz Josef to Punakaiki

    Meals
    Breakfast, Dinner
    Accommodation
    Hotel (Scenic Hotel Punakaiki)

    Included Activities

    • Walk along Hokitika West Coast shore
    • Visit Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki
    Landmarks
    Hokitika
    Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
    Itinerary Image 1Itinerary Image 2
  9. Day 9

    Punakaiki to Christchurch

    Meals
    Breakfast, Lunch (Lunch at legendary Monteith's Brewery), Dinner
    Accommodation
    Hotel (Distinction Christchurch Hotel)

    Included Activities

    • Ponaumu Pathway self-guided cultural experience with Weta Workshop storytelling
    • Lunch at Monteith's Brewery
    • TranzAlpine train journey through Southern Alps to Christchurch
    Landmarks
    Ponaumu Pathway
    Monteith's Brewery
  10. Day 10

    Christchurch

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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

Operated by

AAT Kings

4.3
(115 reviews)

Number of tours

413

Age Range

5 to 99 years old

Response time

within 2 days

Response rate

80%

Since 1912, AAT Kings as a tour operator has been helping people from all...

Read more

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Other

Your Peace of Mind Options

Cancellation Policy

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Travel Insurance

Be covered for any unforseen circumstances.

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
  • 4.3

Sort by

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Highest first
Lowest first

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Most Recent
Most Popular
Highest First
Lowest First
  • P
    April 16th, 2024
    5
    I would highly recommend Isobel and driver Mark. They paid very good attention to detail and the comfort of the...
    Show more
    Traveled in March 2024
  • P
    April 16th, 2024
    5
    I thoroughly enjoyed my tour. The guide, Isobel, paid very good attention to details and the comfort of her...
    Show more
    Traveled in March 2024
  • N
    February 16th, 2024
    5
    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
    January 29th, 2024
    5
    Isabel and Stu were so knowledgeable and fun throughout the tour! What an educational and exciting tour.
    Traveled in January 2024
  • S
    November 18th, 2023
    5
    Great itinerary and guide. Hotels and food excellent.
    Traveled in November 2023
  • Southern Spectacular (2025/2026) reviewer 6
    April 29th, 2023
    5
    My tour was wonderful, awesome scenic views and fantastic tour guides and driver! Everywhere we stopped was...
    Show more
    Traveled in April 2023
  • J
    April 28th, 2023
    4
    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
    March 26th, 2023
    5
    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
    February 11th, 2023
    5
    Fantastic Best vacation
    Traveled in January 2023
  • J
    January 20th, 2023
    5
    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

Select departure month

2026

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2027

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2028

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
1 Adult2 Adults, 1 Child2 Children

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0
Upcoming departures
  • From Tuesday
    17 Mar, 2026
    To Thursday
    26 Mar, 2026
    This departure date is not available or sold out
    Sold out
    From:
    US $5,597 per person
  • From Tuesday
    31 Mar, 2026
    To Thursday
    9 Apr, 2026
    This departure date is not available or sold out
    Sold out
    From:
    US $5,330 per person
  • 1 Other Unavailable Departure
Want to read it later?

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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 KingsOperatorWritten 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

      TravelerWritten 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 KingsOperatorWritten 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.

    • N
      2 more answers
  • M

    Marian

    Asked on January 4th, 2025

    What sort of travel support is offered during the tour?

    Travel Support
    • AAT KingsOperatorWritten 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 KingsOperatorWritten 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 KingsOperatorWritten 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 KingsOperatorWritten 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 KingsOperatorWritten 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 KingsOperatorWritten 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 KingsOperatorWritten 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 KingsOperatorWritten 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 KingsOperatorWritten 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.

Can’t find the answer to your question?
Reach out to the experts at AAT Kings with your enquiry, they usually respond within 2 days.

No departure dates available

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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 May 17th, 2026 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after May 17th, 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
  • 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.

Videos

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  • Explore Australia and New Zealand with AAT Kings
AAT Kings

Who is travelling?

AdultsAges 18 or above

2

ChildrenUnder 18

0

Select departure month

2026

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2027

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

2028

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec