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Ultimate South Island Road Trip: Glaciers, Lakes, and Vineyards Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Arrival in Christchurch and Botanic Gardens

Morning

Arrive in Christchurch and start your journey with a relaxing morning at the iconic Christchurch Botanic Gardens. After a stroll among the beautiful flora, head to The Curator's House for a delightful brunch in a historic setting.

Afternoon

Explore the unique Christchurch Tramway and hop on and off to visit the city's top attractions. For lunch, enjoy a meal at 27 Steps.

Evening

For dinner, savor a farm-to-table experience at Roots Restaurant. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the Avon River before retiring for the night.

Bedtime

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4.64
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
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Christchurch Tramway
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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 Performance. Learn about traditional customs and enjoy a cultural performance. For a mid-morning pick-me-up, stop by C1 Espresso for their famous pneumatic food delivery.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, where you can see native New Zealand wildlife up close. Have a relaxed lunch at Corogate Cafe within the reserve.

Evening

Enjoy a Maori-inspired dinner at Little Pom's. Afterward, take a night walk at the reserve to see the nocturnal animals in their habitat.

Bedtime

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Ko Tane Maori Cultural Performance
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Turquoise Waters of Lake Tekapo

Morning

Depart for Lake Tekapo, known for its stunning turquoise waters. Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and take in the panoramic views. Have a hearty breakfast at Shawty's Cafe.

Afternoon

Explore the Mt. John Observatory for a unique stargazing experience. For lunch, enjoy the views at Peppers Bluewater Resort.

Evening

Relax in the Tekapo Springs with its hot pools and star-gazing opportunities. Have a tranquil dinner at Kohan Restaurant overlooking the lake.

Bedtime

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Church of the Good Shepherd
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Adventure Capital: Queenstown

Morning

Travel to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Start your day with an adrenaline-pumping activity like bungee jumping or jet boating. Afterward, have a relaxed brunch at The Boatshed Cafe.

Afternoon

Take a scenic drive to Glenorchy and enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains and lake. For lunch, stop at The Trading Post for a rustic dining experience.

Evening

Enjoy a fine dining experience at Rata Dining, owned by a MasterChef winner. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk along the Queenstown Gardens.

Bedtime

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Queenstown Gardens
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Wine Tasting in Central Otago

Morning

Explore the vineyards of Central Otago with a wine tasting tour. Visit renowned wineries like Amisfield Winery and Chard Farm Winery. Enjoy a light breakfast at Cargo Brewery.

Afternoon

Indulge in a long lunch at Akarua Wines & Kitchen by Artisan, known for its food and wine pairings. Take a leisurely stroll in the vineyards.

Evening

For dinner, experience the tasting menu at Aro Ha Restaurant with a focus on local and organic ingredients.

Bedtime

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Amisfield Winery
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Gateway to Fiordland

Morning

Travel to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Te Anau to the glowworm caves. Have a light breakfast at La Dolce Vita.

Afternoon

Explore the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary and take a nature walk along the lake. For lunch, savor the seafood at The Fat Duck.

Evening

Dine at Redcliff Restaurant & Bar overlooking the lake. Take a twilight walk along the lakefront to see the stunning sunset.

Bedtime

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Te Anau Bird Sanctuary
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Historic Charm of Dunedin

Morning

Explore the historic architecture of Dunedin, including Larnach Castle and the Dunedin Railway Station. Enjoy a brunch at Plato.

Afternoon

Visit the Otago Peninsula for wildlife watching, including penguins and albatrosses. Have a picnic lunch at Feast Cafe.

Evening

Dine at the iconic Bacchus Wine Bar & Restaurant in the Octagon. Take a ghost tour in the evening to learn about the city's spooky past.

Bedtime

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Larnach Castle
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Majestic Aoraki/Mt. Cook

Morning

Journey to Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park and take a scenic flight to see the Tasman Glacier (Haupapa) from above. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Old Mountaineers' Cafe, Bar and Restaurant.

Afternoon

Explore the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre and learn about the first man to summit Mount Everest. For lunch, have a meal with a view at The Hermitage Hotel.

Evening

Relax and enjoy the alpine glow on the mountains during a sunset walk. Have a gourmet dinner at The Panorama Room with panoramic views of the Southern Alps.

Bedtime

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Tasman Glacier (Haupapa)
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Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
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Glacial Wonders of Franz Josef

Morning

Travel to Franz Josef and embark on a guided glacier hike to experience the Franz Josef Glacier up close. Refuel with a hearty breakfast at The Landing Bar & Restaurant.

Afternoon

After the hike, relax in the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools. For lunch, enjoy a wood-fired pizza at The Alice May.

Evening

Dine at The Glasshouse Bar & Grill and enjoy the cozy atmosphere. Take a twilight walk to see the glowworms in the nearby rainforest.

Bedtime

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Franz Josef Glacier
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Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools
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Farewell to the South Island

Morning

Enjoy a final morning in Queenstown with a scenic gondola ride to Bobs Peak. Have a farewell breakfast at Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar with panoramic views.

Afternoon

Stroll through the Queenstown Arts and Crafts Market to pick up some last-minute souvenirs. For lunch, savor the flavors of New Zealand at Ivy & Lola's Kitchen + Bar.

Evening

Transfer to the airport for your departure, taking with you the memories of an unforgettable South Island road trip.

Bedtime

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