New Zealand: South Island Adventure

Sample Itinerary

Note: This itinerary is subject to change dependent on when you study abroad.

Day 1

Make your own way from Christchurch airport to your hotel. Tonight’s accommodation is included in the excursion cost but there are no set activities – you are free to explore Christchurch on your own this evening. Just remember, you need to wake up early the next day to head out on your adventure across the South Island!

Day 2

Jump on the Tranzalpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth. Travelling west crossing the Canterbury Plains, the train slowly ascends through spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River towards the Southern Alps to the alpine village of Arthurs Pass for a short break before descending through the Otira Tunnel to the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, through lush alpine beech rain forests to Greymouth. Board the group coach and head to your hotel in Punakaiki, where you’ll also enjoy a group dinner.

Day 3

Head down the coast to Franz Josef, where you’ll have the opportunity to hike through this unique and breathtaking glacial landscape, before enjoying a free evening.

Day 4

A free day in Franz Josef to do more hiking, or choose from a wide range of optional extra activities such a scenic heli-flight over the glacier, sky diving, or quad bike tours.

Day 5

Board the coach and head to Queenstown via Lake Matheson and Lake Wanaka. Enjoy a free afternoon exploring Queenstown.

Day 6

Board the coach for a full day trip to Milford Sound, where you’ll enjoy a cruise through the towering peaks and majestic waterfalls. Return to Queenstown. 

Day 7

Free day to choose your own high adrenaline adventure (optional extra), such as jet boating, bungy jumping, paragliding, luge, or do a hike on one of the many local tracks. Cap off a great day with a group dinner.

Day 8

Transfer via coach to Queenstown Airport for your flight home