New Zealand South Island Highlights
The South Island Highlights short break features the most dramatic landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island. Enjoy an unforgettable Piopiotahi (Milford Sound) overnight cruise. Travel through Fiordland, Wānaka, and the rugged West Coast, discovering glaciers, alpine passes, and native wildlife along the way.
- 24 Oct 2027 – 27 Oct 2027
from $2,768 pp twin share * - 07 Nov 2027 – 10 Nov 2027
from $3,075 pp twin share * - 14 Nov 2027 – 17 Nov 2027
from $3,075 pp twin share * - 05 Dec 2027 – 08 Dec 2027
from $2,768 pp twin share * - 16 Jan 2028 – 19 Jan 2028
from $2,829 pp twin share * - 06 Feb 2028 – 09 Feb 2028
from $2,829 pp twin share * - 20 Feb 2028 – 23 Feb 2028
from $2,829 pp twin share * - 27 Feb 2028 – 01 Mar 2028
from $2,829 pp twin share * - 19 Mar 2028 – 22 Mar 2028
from $2,829 pp twin share * - 09 Apr 2028 – 12 Apr 2028
from $2,829 pp twin share * - 22 Oct 2028 – 25 Oct 2028
from $3,260 pp twin share * - 05 Nov 2028 – 08 Nov 2028
from $3,260 pp twin share * - 12 Nov 2028 – 15 Nov 2028
from $3,260 pp twin share * - 03 Dec 2028 – 06 Dec 2028
from $3,260 pp twin share * - 14 Jan 2029 – 17 Jan 2029
from $3,260 pp twin share * - 04 Feb 2029 – 07 Feb 2029
from $3,260 pp twin share * - 18 Feb 2029 – 21 Feb 2029
from $3,260 pp twin share * - 25 Feb 2029 – 28 Feb 2029
from $3,260 pp twin share * - 18 Mar 2029 – 21 Mar 2029
from $3,260 pp twin share * - 08 Apr 2029 – 11 Apr 2029
from $3,260 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Queenstown – Piopiotahi (Milford Sound)
Depart Queenstown and journey along the dramatic Devil’s Staircase to Te Anau. Travel deep into Fiordland National Park, passing mirror-like lakes, alpine valleys and the Homer Tunnel before arriving at Piopiotahi (Milford Sound). Board the Milford Mariner for an unforgettable Milford Sound overnight cruise, where waterfalls, rainforest and wildlife surround you as you explore by kayak or tender and dine on a three-course buffet.
Day 2 – Piopiotahi (Milford Sound) – Wānaka
Wake to the stillness of Piopiotahi (Milford Sound) before cruising further through the fiord as the morning light reveals its towering peaks. Journey onward through Fiordland and Central Otago to Wānaka, a lakeside town set against the Southern Alps, where the evening is yours to relax and explore.
Day 3 – Wānaka – Fox Glacier
Travel from Wānaka past Lake Hāwea and through the alpine landscapes of Makarora before crossing the Haast Pass. Descend into the lush rainforest of the West Coast and arrive at Fox Glacier, where you may choose an Optional Experience* scenic flight over the glaciers for a unique perspective.
Day 4 – Fox Glacier – Christchurch
Continue along the rugged West Coast to Hokitika, known for its greenstone and creative spirit, before turning inland toward the Southern Alps. Cross Arthur’s Pass, where dramatic peaks and alpine scenery give way to rolling plains, before arriving in Ōtautahi (Christchurch), where your journey concludes.
Highlights
- Kayak or tender exploration along the Milford Sound shoreline
- Overnight stay aboard the Milford Mariner with a three-course buffet dinner
- Optional scenic flight over the glaciers from Fox Glacier
The South Island Highlights short break features the most dramatic landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island. Enjoy an unforgettable Piopiotahi (Milford Sound) overnight cruise. Travel through Fiordland, Wānaka, and the rugged West Coast, discovering glaciers, alpine passes, and native wildlife along the way.
Inclusions
- Cruise overnight aboard the iconic Milford Mariner on majestic Piopiotahi/Milford Sound Kayak or travel by tender boat along Milford Sound’s shoreline Stay in the picturesque country town of Wanaka.
- Day 1 highlights Queenstown – Piopiotahi (Milford Sound): Depart Queenstown and journey along the dramatic Devil’s Staircase to Te Anau. Travel deep into Fiordland National Park, passing mirror-like lakes, alpine valleys and the Homer Tunnel before arriving at Piopiotahi (Milford Sound). Board the Milford Mariner for an unforgettable Milford Sound overnight cruise, where waterfalls, rainforest and wildlife surround you as you explore by kayak or tender and dine on a three-course buffet.
- Day 2 highlights Piopiotahi (Milford Sound) – Wānaka: Wake to the stillness of Piopiotahi (Milford Sound) before cruising further through the fiord as the morning light reveals its towering peaks. Journey onward through Fiordland and Central Otago to Wānaka, a lakeside town set against the Southern Alps, where the evening is yours to relax and explore.
FAQs
- Heartland Fox Glacier
- Milford Mariner
- Wanaka Hotel
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 4 days and 3 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 24 Oct 2027 and 11 Apr 2029, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Are discounts available?
Seasonal or loyalty discounts may be available on selected departures at the time of enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
Provided by: AAT KingsFine Print
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