Encounter prolific bird life, rare marine life and explore some of the most remote and unspoilt places on earth, from the marine rich waters of the Otago Peninsula to the wild, untouched beauty of Stewart Island.
New Zealand
South Island Journey
16 Days
Dramatic scenery, unusual bird & marine life encounters and beautiful Stewart Island
This holiday can be re-designed and tailor-made for your own unique experience
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Dramatic alpine scenery |
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Doubtful Sound cruise |
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Kiwi on Stewart Island |
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Wild west coast |
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Guided nature walks |
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Doubtful Sound cruise |
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Glacier visits |
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Arrive Christchurch |
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Collect car and drive to Otago Peninsula via the Moeraki Boulders |
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In-Depth Peninsula Experience |
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Drive to the Southern Catlins |
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Explore independently |
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Drive to Invercargill for flight to Stewart Island |
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Guided nature & bird watching on Stewart & Ulva Island |
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Fly to Invercargill then drive to Te Anau |
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Doubtful Sound overnight cruise |
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Return to Manapouri then drive to Queenstown |
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Day of leisure |
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Drive via the Crown Ranges to Lake Moeraki on the west coast |
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Guided excursions from the lodge |
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Drive north via Fox Glacier and Franz Josef to Hokitiki |
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Visit the Punakaiki before crossing the Southern Alps back to Christchurch |
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Depart Christchurch. |
From Christchurch your route takes you southwards to the Otago Peninsula renowned for its abundant marine life. Encounters with penguins and albatross are the norm here, your expert guides know the best viewing spots and will ensure you have the best possible experience. From here continue south through the little-known Catlins, wild, rugged and untouched this is true New Zealand wilderness and a region which deserves your time.
Next spot is New Zealand's third largest island - Stewart Island, home to native birdlife, ancient forests and unspoilt beaches, together with neighbouring Ulva Island this is paradise for bird lovers and you should be lucky enough to see the kiwi in its natural habitat.
Back on the mainland your route follows the Southern Scenic Route to Te Anau, home to Lake Te Anau but also your jump off point for the exceptional Doubtful Sound overnight cruise. The phrase 'Sound of Silence' is often referred to and you will soon see why. Expect rich flora and fauna, many different bird species, bottlenose dolphins and depending on the time of year Fiordland crested penguins.
After a few days in Queenstown start heading north again, this time up the wild West Coast via the Te Wahi Pounamu World Heritage Area and the gold mining heritage of Hokitika. Your journey comes to an end as you traverse the Southern Alps back to Christchurch.
October - April
Highlight species
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Dolphins and sealions |
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Albatross |
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Little Blue Penguin and Yellow-eyed Penguin |
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Native birdlife such as the weka and saddleback |
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Stewart Island brown kiwi |
Additional Details - Cost, Dates, Rating etc.
Cost from £
Please contact us for a cost for when you wish to travel.
Departure Dates
Any date to your requirements.
Difficulty
An easy tour with some walking, perhaps on muddy paths. Steps to be expected
Flights
No direct flights from the UK. International flights via Asian and US hubs or Australia.
Time
GMT +13 hours
Abel Tasman and Marlborough Sounds in the north of South Island. Also consider combining with North Island.
Alternatively set sail on a cruise of the sub-Antarctic islands.
More Holiday Ideas
Tailor-made - Our holidays to New Zealand are unique to you
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