from £570.00
Southern Explorer Northbound 2011 - 12
Or call 0871 230 0040
*Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras
DAY 1 CHRISTCHURCH TO WEST COAST (GREYMOUTH)
Prepare yourself for some truly stunning scenery, as we head across the Canterbury Plains towards the Southern Alps. We'll break at Arthur's Pass, before reaching Otira Gorge, where thundering waterfalls cascade almost all around you – under no circumstances should you forget your camera! Then we reach the wild beauty of the West Coast. Tonight we’ll head to Monteith’s Brewery for a tour and dinner. (D)
DAY 2 WEST COAST TO FOX GLACIER
We pass through the rugged natural beauty of the West Coast, visiting Hokitika and the local jade factory – perhaps a souvenir is on the cards? Then it’s further south through to Franz Josef and the option of taking a scenic helicopter ride over the glaciers to our afternoon destination, Westland National Park. The Park itself is teeming with lofty mountains and icy rivers – to really discover the beauty of the glacier and surrounding area up close, take on the optional half-day guided hike. Of course, you might prefer the optional heli-hike, which offers views from higher up. (B, D)
DAY 3 FOX GLACIER TO QUEENSTOWN
Take an early morning walk and get a picture of beautiful Lake Matheson, with New Zealand's two tallest peaks in the background. Then we make tracks for mountain country, passing through Thunder Creek Falls before stopping at Makaroa to visit nearby the glistening lakes of Hawea and Wanaka. Finally, we arrive in the mecca of adrenalin junkies the world over, Queenstown. (B, D)
DAY 4 QUEENSTOWN
With the day ahead of you, prepare to up the excitement levels! Options include the traditional bungee jump, zooming around canyons with the Shotover Jet, or more leisurely pursuits such as horse or mountain bike riding. Then again, perhaps you’d like to admire all from above whilst aboard the skyline gondola? The choice is yours. (B)
DAY 5 QUEENSTOWN TO FIORDLAND
Say goodbye to adventure town, as the crew travels to Te Anau and Lake Wakatipu – here we'll jump aboard our overnight cruise through the fiords. Expect gorgeous views, with the chance of spotting some local fur seals and bottlenose dolphins! We'll also have time to go kayaking or go exploring with a nature guide. As the sun fades we'll drop anchor and head for dinner. (B, D)
DAY 6 FIORDLAND EXPERIENCE TO LAKE OHAU
We continue our cruise in the morning, before making land and passing through a veritable cavalcade of picturesque spots – Mirror Lake, the chasm of Hollyford Valley and the local charms of Te Anau are all on this morning's agenda. Then we travel to the Kawarau River and the location of AJ Hackett's original 'Bridge Bungy' – the first commercial bungy in the world. We head onwards to our nightly destination of Lake Ohau: settle in and get comfortable. (B, D)
DAY 7 LAKE OHAU TO CHRISTCHURCH
Let's kick things off with a trip to Lake Pukaki and the chance for some truly spectacular photos of the still waters with Mt Cook in the distance. Trust us, it's something special. Then we stop at Lake Tekapo, with an optional 40 minute flight available (well worth it if you can afford). From here, it's onwards to Mackenzie country and the heart of sheep farming. We'll discover what it’s like to run a sheep farm, before arriving at Christchurch and the end of the road together. (B, Afternoon Tea) Please note that this trip forms part of the Grand Kiwi Reverse trip, days 3 - 9.
Or call 0871 230 0040
*Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras
