8-day South Island Tour | KIWI SEASONS TRAVEL AGENCY LIMITED

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day small-group journey through New Zealand’s spectacular South Island. Starting and ending in Christchurch, this classic loop itinerary takes you through some of the country’s most iconic landscapes and charming towns – perfect for first-time visitors seeking a mix of nature, adventure, and cultural highlights.

Tour Highlights

Lake Tekapo & Church of the Good Shepherd – Marvel at turquoise waters and starry skies in the Dark Sky Reserve.
Mt. Cook National Park & Tasman Glacier – Discover New Zealand’s highest peak and enjoy optional scenic walks or glacier heli-hiking.
Lake Pukaki & Salmon Farm – Enjoy the pristine alpine scenery and taste fresh glacier-fed salmon.
Wānaka & Arrowtown – Visit the famous lone tree of Wānaka and stroll through the historic gold mining town.
Queenstown – Enjoy two free days in the adventure capital of the world. Optional activities include bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, or relaxing on the TSS Earnslaw steamship to a lakeside farm.
Moeraki Boulders & Katiki Lighthouse – Witness mysterious spherical stones and spot wild sea lions along the coast.
Oamaru & Timaru – Explore Victorian streets and penguin colonies in Oamaru, then enjoy a relaxing seaside lunch in Timaru before returning to Christchurch.

Travel in a small group (2–5 people) with no shopping stops or hidden fees. Enjoy handpicked stays and local insights from experienced driver-guides.

Tour Duration:

8 Days / 7 Nights

Departure City:

Christchurch

Inclusions:

Accommodation
Airport Transfers
Daily Transportation
Tickets for Scenic Spots
Driver-guide Support

Exclusions:

Activities during free time not included.

Perfect for:

Families
Couples & honeymooners
Nature & photography lovers
First-time visitors to New Zealand

* Advanced booking required

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Christchurch

Arrival, airport pickup, optional city tour, overnight in Christchurch.

Day 2: Tekapo & Mt. Cook

Drive to Lake Tekapo, visit Church of the Good Shepherd, stargazing at night, continue to Mt Cook.

Day 3: Lake Pukaki – Wanaka

Stop at the brilliant blue Lake Pukaki with a view of Aoraki/Mt. Cook. Enjoy a visit to a local salmon farm, then continue to Wanaka for a peaceful evening by the lakefront.

Day 4: Wanaka – Arrowtown – Queenstown

Visit the iconic Wanaka Tree, then drive to the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown. Arrive in Queenstown in the afternoon for optional lake cruise or skyline gondola ride.

Day 5: Queenstown Free Day

Choose your own adventure! Try bungee jumping, skydiving, or just enjoy the stunning lake views and world-class cuisine at your own pace.

Day 6: Queenstown – Dunedin

Travel through the beautiful Central Otago wine region to reach Dunedin, known for its Scottish heritage, wildlife, and Otago Peninsula cliffs.

Day 7: Moeraki Boulders – Oamaru

Walk among the mysterious round boulders at Moeraki Beach and explore the steampunk capital Oamaru, home to Victorian streetscapes and penguin colonies.

Day 8: Timaru – Christchurch

Enjoy a relaxing final day with a scenic lunch stop in Timaru before returning to Christchurch for your onward journey or flight.

8-day Private South Island Discovery