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South Island Nature and Culture Expedition Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14City Exploration and Botanic Gardens
Morning
Start your South Island adventure by exploring the vibrant city of Christchurch. Begin with a delightful breakfast at C1 Espresso, known for its unique pneumatic food delivery system. After breakfast, take a leisurely walk through the serene Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a perfect introduction to the natural beauty of New Zealand.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to the iconic The Curator's House, a historic restaurant offering a fine dining experience. Afterward, visit the International Antarctic Centre to learn about the continent's unique environment and enjoy interactive activities.
Evening
Enjoy a sophisticated dinner at Pescatore, known for its exquisite seafood dishes and panoramic views of the city. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Riverside Market, where you can sample local delicacies and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.
Bedtime
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Maori Culture and Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
Morning
Immerse yourself in Maori culture with a visit to the Ko Tane Maori Cultural Experience. Participate in traditional ceremonies, enjoy a hangi feast, and experience the powerful haka performance.
Afternoon
For a unique wildlife experience, head to the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, where you can see native New Zealand species up close. Enjoy a relaxed lunch at the reserve's cafe, surrounded by nature.
Evening
Dine at Coriander's Ethnic Indian Restaurant for a flavorful dinner, offering a modern twist on traditional Indian cuisine. Afterward, take a leisurely evening walk along the New Regent Street, a beautifully restored heritage street with charming pastel-colored buildings.
Bedtime
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4.66Ko Tane Maori Cultural Experience
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4.66Ko Tane Maori Cultural Experience
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4.84Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
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4.84Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
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Historic City and Otago Peninsula
Morning
Take a scenic drive to Dunedin, a city with a rich Scottish heritage. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Plato, known for its seasonal and locally sourced menu. Explore the Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle, and enjoy the stunning gardens and panoramic views.
Afternoon
For lunch, savor the fresh seafood at Fleur's Place in the charming fishing village of Moeraki. Afterward, take a wildlife cruise on the Otago Harbour, where you can spot albatrosses, seals, and penguins in their natural habitat.
Evening
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at The Esplanade, a waterfront restaurant with a focus on local produce. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the Dunedin Botanic Garden, one of the oldest in the country, and admire the diverse plant collections.
Bedtime
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4.81Larnach Castle
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4.81Larnach Castle
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Railway and Wildlife Adventure
Morning
Embark on a scenic journey on the Taieri Gorge Railway, one of the most spectacular train trips in the world. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Taieri Gorge and the rugged Central Otago landscape.
Afternoon
Have a picnic lunch at the Dunedin Chinese Garden, a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Explore the traditional architecture, water features, and plantings that reflect the harmony of nature.
Evening
For dinner, experience the unique flavors of modern New Zealand cuisine at Glenfalloch Restaurant, set in a historic garden on the Otago Peninsula. Afterward, take a guided tour to see the world's rarest penguins at The Royal Albatross Centre.
Bedtime
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4.58Taieri Gorge Railway
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4.58Taieri Gorge Railway
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4.75Dunedin Chinese Garden
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4.75Dunedin Chinese Garden
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Adventure Capital and Lake Wakatipu
Morning
Arrive in the adrenaline-pumping town of Queenstown and start your day with a scenic gondola ride to the Skyline Queenstown. Enjoy panoramic views of the Remarkables mountain range and the turquoise waters of Lake Wakatipu.
Afternoon
For lunch, indulge in a gourmet burger at the famous Fergburger, a must-visit in Queenstown. Afterward, take a thrilling jet boat ride on the Shotover River, experiencing 360-degree spins and high speeds.
Evening
Dine at Rātā Restaurant, owned by renowned chef Josh Emett, and savor the flavors of local, seasonal produce. Conclude your day with a peaceful evening cruise on Lake Wakatipu, watching the sunset over the surrounding mountains.
Bedtime
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4.55Skyline Queenstown
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4.55Skyline Queenstown
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4.79Lake Wakatipu
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4.79Lake Wakatipu
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Wine Tasting and Arrowtown
Morning
Explore the charming village of Arrowtown, known for its gold mining history and autumn colors. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Provisions of Arrowtown, a cozy cafe with a focus on local ingredients.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon wine tasting in the Central Otago region, known for its world-class pinot noirs. Visit the Amisfield Winery for a tasting and a gourmet lunch overlooking the vineyards.
Evening
For dinner, experience the warm hospitality of Akarua Wines & Kitchen by Artisan, where you can enjoy a seasonal menu paired with their award-winning wines. Afterward, take a stroll through the historic streets of Arrowtown, lined with boutique shops and galleries.
Bedtime
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4.38Amisfield Winery
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4.38Amisfield Winery
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Fiordland National Park and Glowworm Caves
Morning
Journey to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park, and enjoy a scenic drive along the Milford Road. Stop at the Eglinton Valley and the Chasm Walk to marvel at the dramatic landscapes.
Afternoon
Experience the magical Te Anau Glowworm Caves on a guided tour, where you'll glide through the underground grotto illuminated by thousands of glowworms. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the serene surroundings of Lake Te Anau.
Evening
Dine at The Fat Duck, a local favorite known for its hearty New Zealand cuisine. After dinner, take a twilight cruise on Lake Te Anau, taking in the beauty of the lake and the surrounding mountains as the stars come out.
Bedtime
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4.48Milford Road
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4.48Milford Road
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4.61Eglinton Valley
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4.61Eglinton Valley
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Hiking and Bird Watching in Fiordland
Morning
Embark on a guided hike on the Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks. Immerse yourself in the ancient beech forests, alpine meadows, and cascading waterfalls of Fiordland.
Afternoon
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the wilderness before continuing your hike, keeping an eye out for native bird species such as the kea and the takahe. After your hike, relax and unwind at the Fiordland Lodge, with stunning views of Lake Te Anau.
Evening
For dinner, savor the flavors of the region at The Redcliff, a restaurant known for its innovative use of local ingredients. Afterward, take a guided nocturnal tour to spot the native wildlife of Fiordland, including the elusive kiwi bird.
Bedtime
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4.76Fiordland Lodge
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4.76Fiordland Lodge
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Kawarau Bridge Bungy and Winery Lunch
Morning
Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush with a bungy jump from the Kawarau Bridge, the birthplace of bungy jumping. After your jump, celebrate with a glass of local wine at the Gibbston Valley Winery, known for its pinot noirs.
Afternoon
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the winery restaurant, overlooking the vineyards and the Kawarau River. Afterward, take a guided tour of the winery and learn about the winemaking process.
Evening
Dine at Amisfield Bistro & Cellar Door, a renowned winery restaurant with a focus on local and seasonal produce. After dinner, take a sunset cruise on Lake Wakatipu, enjoying the changing colors of the Remarkables mountain range.
Bedtime
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4.76Kawarau Bridge
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4.76Kawarau Bridge
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4.85Gibbston Valley Winery
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4.85Gibbston Valley Winery
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Glenorchy and Dart River Safari
Morning
Take a scenic drive to the picturesque village of Glenorchy, located at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu. Enjoy a scenic walk along the Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway, with views of the surrounding mountains.
Afternoon
Experience the thrill of a jet boat safari on the Dart River, journeying through the untouched wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park. Enjoy a picnic lunch in a secluded spot along the river.
Evening
For dinner, dine at The Kinloch Lodge, a historic property with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Afterward, take a guided evening walk to learn about the natural and cultural history of the area.
Bedtime
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4.75Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway
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4.75Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway
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4.69Dart River
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4.69Dart River
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Lake Wanaka and Puzzling World
Morning
Travel to the charming town of Wanaka, located on the shores of Lake Wanaka. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Big Fig, a local favorite known for its hearty meals and friendly atmosphere.
Afternoon
Visit Puzzling World, a unique attraction with a maze, illusion rooms, and a puzzling cafe. Test your problem-solving skills and enjoy a light lunch at the cafe.
Evening
Dine at The White House, a restaurant with stunning views of the lake and the Southern Alps. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Wanaka Tree, one of the most photographed trees in New Zealand.
Bedtime
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4.56Puzzling World
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4.56Puzzling World
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4.70Wanaka Tree
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4.70Wanaka Tree
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Rob Roy Glacier Track and Rippon Vineyard
Morning
Embark on a guided hike on the Rob Roy Glacier Track, a stunning alpine walk with views of waterfalls, hanging glaciers, and Mount Aspiring. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the mountain wilderness.
Afternoon
Visit Rippon Vineyard, one of the most scenic wineries in the world, and enjoy a wine tasting overlooking Lake Wanaka. Learn about the biodynamic practices of the vineyard and relax in the beautiful surroundings.
Evening
For dinner, dine at Ode Conscious Dining, a restaurant known for its sustainable and locally sourced menu. Afterward, stargaze at the Mount John Observatory and marvel at the clear southern skies.
Bedtime
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4.17Rob Roy Glacier Track
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4.17Rob Roy Glacier Track
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4.61Rippon Vineyard
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4.61Rippon Vineyard
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Farewell to the South Island
Morning
Spend your last morning in Queenstown at Ben Lomond Scenic Reserve, taking a challenging hike to the summit for panoramic views of the region. Enjoy a packed lunch at the top.
Afternoon
After descending from the hike, relax and unwind at the Onsen Hot Pools, with private pools overlooking the Shotover River. Enjoy a soak in the healing waters before your journey home.
Evening
For your final dinner in New Zealand, indulge in a degustation menu at The Rees Hotel, a luxury dining experience with views of Lake Wakatipu. Raise a glass of Central Otago pinot noir to a memorable South Island adventure.
Bedtime
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4.29Ben Lomond Scenic Reserve
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4.29Ben Lomond Scenic Reserve
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4.69Onsen Hot Pools
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4.69Onsen Hot Pools
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Departure Day in Queenstown
Morning
On your departure day, take a scenic helicopter flight over the Southern Alps and the Milford Sound, a fitting end to your South Island adventure. Marvel at the towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and the dramatic fjord from above.
Afternoon
After your helicopter flight, enjoy a farewell lunch at The Boat Shed Cafe & Bistro, a waterfront restaurant with a focus on fresh seafood. Take a leisurely stroll along the Queenstown Gardens, reflecting on your journey through the natural wonders of New Zealand.
Evening
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight, with memories of the stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and unforgettable experiences of the South Island. Kia ora and safe travels!
Bedtime
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4.31Milford Sound
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4.31Milford Sound
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4.48Queenstown Gardens
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4.48Queenstown Gardens
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