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Our Agents

Booval

07 3202 3355

Capalaba

07 3245 4377

Carindale

07 3369 5899

Mt Ommaney

07 3558 1556

South Island Odyssey

12-Day New Zealand Land Tour

  • APT Tours & Cruises

From: $8,795

Save $0 – Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Trip Length: 12 Days
  • Trip Starts: Christchurch
  • Trip Finishes: Christchurch

All prices displayed on this website are subject to availability and may change without notice due to supplier price changes, taxes, fees, or currency fluctuations. Prices are indicative only and are not guaranteed until the booking is confirmed and full payment has been received. While we make reasonable efforts to ensure accuracy, errors may occur and will be corrected when identified. Nothing in these terms limits or excludes your rights under the Australian Consumer Law.

Overview

Encounter incredible natural wonders on this spectacular 12-day tour of New Zealand’s South Island. Marvel at the opportunity to spot Kaikoura’s dusky dolphins, savour a wine tasting and banquet lunch at Allan Scott Family Winemakers, and see Punakaiki’s famous Pancake Rocks, among many other highlights.

Select Small Group departure dates available with no more than 24 guests.

Itinerary

Be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. Later, meet your APT Tour Director and fellow guests at a welcome dinner.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Distinction Christchurch Hotel

Travel north to the coastal town of Kaikōura. Explore the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, renowned for its magnificent ocean views and incredible marine wildlife. Visit the local seal colony, which lives on the rocky shoreline. Then, enjoy the opportunity to spot dolphins on an unforgettable Signature Experience. In the evening, another fantastic Signature Experience awaits.

Signature Experience – Dolphin Encounter

Travel out to sea aboard a purpose-built privately chartered vessel (subject to minimum numbers) for an extraordinary encounter with Kaikōura’s dusky dolphins. Marvel at the opportunity to witness one of the most incredible dolphin shows in the world, as these energetic creatures put on a thrilling display of jumps, leaps, tail slapping and somersaults.

Signature Experience – Crayfish Dinner

The name Kaikōura translates from Māori language to ‘eat crayfish’, so no visit would be complete without tasting the town’s namesake delicacy. During a special dinner this evening, savour fresh crayfish along with other local produce.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Sudima Kaikōura

Continue north into the Marlborough wine region, stopping at Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre for a self-guided tour of one of the world’s largest private collections of WW1 aircraft and artefacts. Here, dramatic sets created by WingNut Films and mannequins from award-winning film effects company Wētā Workshop bring the stories of aviation in the Great War to life. Afterwards, enjoy your Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Allan Scott Family Winemakers

Allan Scott Family Winemakers is a family-owned winery nestled in the heart of the Marlborough region’s famed ‘Golden Mile’ on Jacksons Road, which stretches from Rapaura to Renwick. Enjoy a wine tasting followed by a shared banquet lunch, then relish time to wander through the spectacular gardens that surround the cellar door.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Blenheim, Scenic Hotel Marlborough

Today, travel over to the South Island’s rugged West Coast. Stop at the town of Westport for lunch. Afterwards, continue south to the small village of Punakaiki, nestled on the edge of the Paparoa National Park. Embark on an incredible walk to see Punakaiki’s famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes before settling into your hotel, which is perfectly positioned right on the beach and hosts amazing sunset views.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

Travel along the Great Coast Road, widely recognised as one of the top coastal drives in the world. In Greymouth, explore the Pounamu Pathway – Māwhera Pā project, an immersive storytelling experience crafted by Wētā Workshop that brings Māori legends, settlements and history to life. Continue to Hokitika, which is also known as ‘Jade Country’. Pounamu, or nephrite jade, is plentiful here and holds great cultural significance for the Māori people. Then, a Signature Experience awaits.

Signature Experience – Franz Josef/Waiau

Drive through Westland Tai Poutini National Park and see the dramatic surrounds of the Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere. This evening, you’ll stay at the luxurious Te Waonui Forest Retreat, located on the edge of the Franz Josef/Waiau village. Relax and unwind amid the lush rainforest and breathtaking scenery before enjoying a four-course degustation fine dining experience.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Franz Josef/Waiau, Te Waonui Forest Retreat

Today, admire the breathtaking scenery as you travel along the Haast River Valley to Queenstown. This evening, choose where to enjoy dinner with a range of Freedom of Choice dining options available to you.

Freedom of Choice – Walter Peak

Cruise aboard a vintage steamer to Walter Peak High Country Farm to enjoy a lavish BBQ dinner featuring succulent meats expertly prepared on the rotisserie and grill, vegetables, a selection of salads, and bread. And be sure to leave room for dessert.

Freedom of Choice – Stratosfare Restaurant

Take a magical gondola ride up to the Stratosfare Restaurant on Bob’s Peak overlooking Queenstown. Feast on an extensive range of New Zealand and international cuisines while enjoying uninterrupted views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables.

Freedom of Choice – Fergburger

This cult burger house achieved worldwide fame in 2015 when its burgers were crowned the world’s best in a travel article on the website of news giant CNN. The best burgers in New Zealand, no doubt. The world? You be the judge.

Freedom of Choice – Finz Restaurant

Finz Seafood & Grill offers casual, relaxed waterfront dining right in the heart of Queenstown. Finz is a bustling bistro, where you can enjoy fresh seafood daily and other dishes in a fabulous location.

Freedom of Choice – Your Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy a contemporary fusion of local and international cuisine at your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Three Nights, Crowne Plaza Queenstown

Embark on a scenic drive today as you journey along the Milford Road and into the heart of Fiordland National Park. Wind down the Eglinton and Hollyford Valleys and drive through the Homer Tunnel to be met by the sight of Mitre Peak – the iconic backdrop to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Continue to Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, where you will enjoy a Signature Experience. Afterwards, return to Queenstown.

Signature Experience – Milford Sound/Piopiotahi Cruise

A cruise through Milford Sound/Piopiotahi draws you into a magical world of snow-dusted mountains, breathtaking scenery and engaging wildlife. Edge close to tumbling waterfalls and colonies of seals and penguins, all beneath the ramparts of mighty peaks that rise sheer from the water as they stretch to the vast sky above.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy flexibility in how to spend your day with a range of Freedom of Choice activities on offer.

Freedom of Choice – ‘The Lord of the Rings’ 4WD Safari

Discover why this beautiful landscape was chosen to portray Middle-earth in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ on this sensational 4WD safari. Visit several breathtaking locations where the iconic motion picture trilogy was filmed.

Freedom of Choice – Wine Tour

Embark on a personalised sightseeing tour of New Zealand’s southernmost wine region, as you indulge in tastings from various wineries.

Freedom of Choice – Skippers Canyon

Enjoy an exciting 4WD adventure following the Shotover River Valley. Admire rocky cliffs, sheer drops and breathtaking river gorges along the way.

Freedom of Choice – Million Dollar Cruise

Glide across the mystical waters of Lake Wakatipu, keeping your eyes peeled for local bird life as well as enormous trout, which are plentiful here.

Freedom of Choice – Dart River Wilderness Jet

A wilderness jet boat journey on the glacier-fed Dart River takes you deep into Mount Aspiring National Park, which is part of the larger World Heritage Site of Te Wahipounamu. Here, your guide will share fascinating insights into the area’s rich history.

Freedom of Choice – Best of Queenstown

Gaze in wonder at the beauty of New Zealand’s adventure capital on this spectacular tour. Take in panoramic views of Queenstown, visit the charming township of Arrowtown and explore Gibbston, home to the world’s first commercial bungy jump location. Enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery and to top it all off, relax during a scenic boat cruise on Lake Wakatipu.

Meals: Breakfast

Journey through Southland’s rugged countryside as you travel to Dunedin, a city known as the ‘Edinburgh of the South’. Enjoy a city sights tour before travelling along the Otago Peninsula. Embark on a memorable wildlife cruise, where you can sit back and relax as you listen to a commentary on the local wildlife, history and geology of the region.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Distinction Dunedin Hotel

Drive north and stop to view the Moeraki Boulders/Kaihinaki on Koekohe Beach. A geological marvel, these gigantic calcite spheres were formed an estimated 65 million years ago. Continue to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, where you will enjoy a Signature Experience as well as your preferred Freedom of Choice activity.

Signature Experience – Aoraki/Mount Cook

Journey into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a bewildering landscape of towering mountain peaks, alpine herb fields and epic glaciers. See New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook, and stay at the iconic Hermitage Hotel. Dine at the hotel’s Alpine Restaurant this evening, indulging in a delicious seasonal menu that incorporates the finest local ingredients.

Freedom of Choice – Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre

Visit the state-of-the-art Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre and discover the history of the iconic surrounding region. The museum is dedicated to the achievements of the famous mountaineer and explorer Sir Edmund Hillary and his affiliation with Aoraki/Mount Cook.

Freedom of Choice – Stargazing

Learn all about the stars of the southern sky with an expert astronomer.

Freedom of Choice – Glacier Explorer Cruise

Step aboard a MAC boat for an up-close encounter with stunning icebergs on the terminal lake of the Tasman Glacier (summer months only).

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Aoraki/Mount Cook, The Hermitage Hotel, in a room with alpine views

Travel to the picturesque township of Lake Tekapo/Takapō. Here, take in the rugged beauty of the Southern Alps and the namesake lake’s distinctive milky-turquoise hue. Pay a visit to the charming Church of the Good Shepherd, which features in many photographs thanks to its beautiful backdrop and surrounds. In the evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner during your Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Riverside Kitchen at Riverside Market

An immersive dining experience awaits this evening at Riverside Kitchen, nestled above Christchurch’s famed Riverside Market. Be greeted with a welcome cocktail before watching a cooking demonstration, showcasing delicious local produce from the market and New Zealand cuisine. Then, savour a sumptuous three-course farewell dinner where each meal is paired with a local wine.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Distinction Christchurch Hotel

Today, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

Meals: Breakfast

Trip Inclusions

Travel out to sea aboard a purpose-built privately chartered vessel (subject to minimum numbers) for an extraordinary encounter with Kaikōura’s dusky dolphins. Marvel at the opportunity to witness one of the most incredible dolphin shows in the world, as these energetic creatures put on a thrilling display of jumps, leaps, tail slapping and somersaults.

Allan Scott Family Winemakers is a family-owned winery nestled in the heart of the Marlborough region’s famed ‘Golden Mile’ on Jacksons Road, which stretches from Rapaura to Renwick. Enjoy a wine tasting followed by a shared banquet lunch, then relish time to wander through the spectacular gardens that surround the cellar door.

Drive through Westland Tai Poutini National Park and see the dramatic surrounds of the Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere. Tonight, you will stay at the luxurious Te Waonui Forest Retreat. Relax and unwind amid the lush rainforest and breathtaking scenery, before enjoying a four-course degustation fine dining experience.

Journey into Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a bewildering landscape of towering mountain peaks, alpine herb fields and epic glaciers. See New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook, and stay at the iconic Hermitage Hotel. Indulge in a delicious seasonal menu, which incorporates the finest local ingredients, at the hotel’s Alpine Restaurant.

A cruise through Milford Sound/Piopiotahi draws you into a magical world of snow-dusted mountains, breathtaking scenery and engaging wildlife. Edge close to tumbling waterfalls and colonies of seals and penguins, all beneath the ramparts of mighty peaks that rise sheer from the water as they stretch to the vast sky above.

Dates & Pricing

Trip Dates:

03 Oct 2026 16 Oct 2026 09 Nov 2026 20 Nov 2026 25 Jan 2027 08 Feb 2027 15 Feb 2027 22 Feb 2027 08 Mar 2027 22 Mar 2027 02 Oct 2027 23 Oct 2027 06 Nov 2027 20 Nov 2027 15 Jan 2028 05 Feb 2028 19 Feb 2028 26 Feb 2028 11 Mar 2028 25 Mar 2028

Room Type:

Twin Share
Solo (Own Room)

  • Saturday

    03 Oct 2026

    Christchurch

    Wednesday

    14 Oct 2026

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $8,795

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Friday

    16 Oct 2026

    Christchurch

    Tuesday

    27 Oct 2026

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $9,395

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Monday

    09 Nov 2026

    Christchurch

    Friday

    20 Nov 2026

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $9,395

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Friday

    20 Nov 2026

    Christchurch

    Tuesday

    01 Dec 2026

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $9,395

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Monday

    25 Jan 2027

    Christchurch

    Friday

    05 Feb 2027

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $8,795

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Monday

    08 Feb 2027

    Christchurch

    Friday

    19 Feb 2027

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $9,395

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Monday

    15 Feb 2027

    Christchurch

    Friday

    26 Feb 2027

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $8,795

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Monday

    22 Feb 2027

    Christchurch

    Friday

    05 Mar 2027

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $9,395

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Monday

    08 Mar 2027

    Christchurch

    Friday

    19 Mar 2027

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $9,395

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Monday

    22 Mar 2027

    Christchurch

    Friday

    02 Apr 2027

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $9,395

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Saturday

    02 Oct 2027

    Christchurch

    Wednesday

    13 Oct 2027

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $8,995

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Saturday

    23 Oct 2027

    Christchurch

    Wednesday

    03 Nov 2027

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $9,595

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Saturday

    06 Nov 2027

    Christchurch

    Wednesday

    17 Nov 2027

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $8,995

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Saturday

    20 Nov 2027

    Christchurch

    Wednesday

    01 Dec 2027

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $9,595

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Saturday

    15 Jan 2028

    Christchurch

    Wednesday

    26 Jan 2028

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $8,995

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Saturday

    05 Feb 2028

    Christchurch

    Wednesday

    16 Feb 2028

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $8,995

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Saturday

    19 Feb 2028

    Christchurch

    Wednesday

    01 Mar 2028

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $9,595

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Saturday

    26 Feb 2028

    Christchurch

    Wednesday

    08 Mar 2028

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $9,595

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Saturday

    11 Mar 2028

    Christchurch

    Wednesday

    22 Mar 2028

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $9,595

    Twin Share (Per Person)

  • Saturday

    25 Mar 2028

    Christchurch

    Wednesday

    05 Apr 2028

    Christchurch

    Our Price

    AUD $8,995

    Twin Share (Per Person)

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