New Zealand Pickleball Tour

Day One

Wednesday 29th April 2026 - Christchurch to Lake Tekapo, Dark Sky Project Summit Experience

INCLUDED - Private Driver Guide

Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

Today you head into the heart of the South Island. After crossing the vast Canterbury Plains you will reach the township of Geraldine, which offers an ideal refreshment stop before you head into Mackenzie Country. Passing through places such as Beautiful Valley it's not hard to understand where the names originate. Ascending Burkes Pass and onto the high country plateau and the picturesque town of Lake Tekapo. Lake Tekapo is New Zealand's highest large lake and its incredible turquoise colour astounds many visitors. The amazing colour of the water is created by the fine rock particles that are suspended in the glacier-fed waters and these reflect the light.

One of the most popular landmarks in this region is the Church of the Good Shepherd. This pretty stone building was dedicated in 1935 and must be one of the most photographed in New Zealand. Nearby a bronze statue of a sheepdog pays tribute to the invaluable contribution the animals have made to working the mountain country.

Just a few kilometres west of Lake Tekapo is Mt. John and here you will find the Canterbury University observatory. A drive to the top of the hill gives spectacular views of the Southern Alps, the lakes and the high country. Tours of the observatory are also available. Lake Alexandrina is just a little further and this wildlife reserve is home to many birds and as no motorised craft are permitted on either Lake McGregor or Lake Alexandrina its a very peaceful place.

Air Safaris operate fantastic scenic flights over the lakes, Mount Cook National Park and the West Coast glaciers including Fox Glacier and Franz Josef. Tekapo is also a great place to enjoy a guided horse trek with Mackenzie Alpine Horse Trekking or a spot of fishing or lunch on the pristine lake.

Tekapo Springs Hot Pools - suggested activity

This activity is OPEN-DATED. Your voucher is valid for 5 days from the date above.

Tekapo Springs is open weekdays from 11:00-19:00 and weekends from 10:00-19:00. School Holidays including the Christmas period 7 days a week 10:00 - 19:00. You will need to take your own towel, or you may hire one at a cost of $5 with a $20 refundable deposit.

Tekapo Springs offers three adjoining main Hot Pools for you to sit back, relax and enjoy yourself while looking out to the beautiful Two Thumb range and stunning Lake Tekapo. Pool temperatures range from forty degrees celsius to thirty-six degrees celsius and each pool offers something different - massage jets to assist in taking away any aches and pains and fountains to splash under.

The Grand Traverse Scenic Flight with Air Safaris - suggested activity

Flight time is approximately 50 minutes, please allow for 1 hour total duration.

The flight of a lifetime, the "Grand Traverse" is a spectacular scenic flight seeing experience allowing you to explore the Mount Cook and Westland National Parks. This magnificent flight encompasses two World Heritage National Parks and 200 km of New Zealand's most memorable and spectacular scenery. The contrast of colours is beautiful with the turquoise glacial lake against the tussock covered sheep stations. Your journey will bring you over Aoraki Mt Cook National park where you view New Zealand's longest glacier, The Tasman. From there you cross the main divide into the Westland National Park encompassing the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers which spill down to the rainforests of the west coast. Their large and varied fleet especially selected for New Zealand air tour sightseeing ensures that every passenger has a window seat and all aircraft have wings-above to ensure optimum viewing below. Pilots provide a full and informative commentary with multi language commentary brochures supplied.

INCLUDED - Dark Sky Project Summit Experience

Experience the cosmos like never before with the Summit Experience at Lake Takapō (Tekapo), one of the best places on Earth for stargazing. Located on the summit of Mount John within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, this is your exclusive opportunity to explore the night sky from New Zealand’s only professional research observatory. Guided by passionate astronomy experts, you'll delve deep into the universe using powerful telescopes, including a 16” telescope within a private dome. Discover distant galaxies, constellations, planets, and star clusters while gaining a richer understanding of both Māori and Western knowledge systems. You'll leave with a new perspective on the stars, all while surrounded by the stunning landscape and the clearest, darkest skies in the Southern Hemisphere.

Your accommodation: Peppers Bluewater Resort

Peppers Bluewater sits overlooking stunning Lake Tekapo and the Southern Alps and is just a short walk to the small towns facilities. Also close by is the Tekapo Springs Day Spa, a great place to relax after a day exploring. Facilities include an on site restaurant and bar.

Room type: Deluxe Lake View Hotel Room with breakfast

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 227 kms / 141 miles : 2.9 hours

Day Two

Thursday 30th April 2026 - Lake Tekapo to Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park, Glacier Explorers

Lake Tekapo to Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park

Lake Pukaki is just another 30-minute drive from Lake Tekapo and as you approach the lake you are often rewarded with spectacular views of the full length of the lake and into Aoraki Mt Cook National Park. At 3754 meters Aoraki Mt Cook is New Zealand's highest mountain and the peak can often be seen from the visitor center at the southern end of Lake Pukaki.

Aoraki Mt Cook National Park offers the visitor a huge range of activities. Mt Cook Ski Planes operate scenic flights that include a unique ski landing on a glacier. At around 15 kilometres long the Tasman Glacier is New Zealand's longest and a Glacier Explorers tour will show you these unique features.

Please note: There are no food shops at Mt. Cook. If you wish to self-cater, you should stock up before arriving or make dinner reservations in advance. Restaurant options are limited.

INCLUDED - Glacier Explorers

There is a 1.5km walk from the bus to the jetty, and this needs to be walked in around 20-25 minutes. Please wear suitable footwear.

Experience 500-year-old icebergs up close on the Aoraki-Mt Cook terminal lake. The Glacier Explorers tour is the only one of its kind in New Zealand and one of only three in the world! Very few glaciers terminate into lakes and even fewer of them are accessible. See towering ice cliffs and floating icebergs from the safety of a specially designed boat. These boats provide a safe way to view unseen and inaccessible areas of New Zealand's largest glacier The Tasman.

Duration: Approx 3hrs

Please note: Weather conditions in the mountains can change quickly, be sure to dress warm!

INCLUDED - The Panorama Room 3-course Dinner with The Hermitage Hotel

Your dinner reservation is at XXX

Since first opening its doors in 1969, The Panorama Room has gained a reputation as being one of the best restaurants in New Zealand. This reputation is reflected in the numerous awards the restaurant has received over the years. A simple philosophy of using just the freshest, local ingredients, in particular from New Zealand's South Island, is still the secret to its success today. The menu has a strong international influence and reflects both the establishment's taste and the fact that most of the chefs have travelled and worked widely throughout the world.

Your accommodation: Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki Wing Premium

The Hermitage Hotel ringed by magnificent snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps, is a world-renowned tourist destination and has been an icon of superior accommodation and dining since 1884.

Room type: 1 x Aoraki Wing Premium (includes breakfast)

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 103 kms / 64 miles : 1.1 hours

Day Three

Friday 1st May 2026 - Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to Wanaka

Aoraki Mt Cook National Park to Wanaka

Twizel, just south of Aoraki Mt Cook was the location of many Lord of the Rings movie scenes and a little further on is Omarama, the gliding capital of New Zealand. Wrinkly Rams is a local café with great coffee and fresh homemade food. The Lindis Pass is one of New Zealand’s highest roads with the summit reaching 971 metres. The tussock covered hills offer an unusual contrast as you pass from the Mackenzie Basin and into Central Otago. The first Central Otago settlement you reach is the quaint village of Tarras, which has a number of boutique stores and a lovely café. Approaching Wanaka the wonderful alpine lake welcomes you to the town. Despite its size Wanaka has a wide variety of activities available. In winter it is without doubt New Zealand's premier ski destination with its very close proximity to Treble Cone and Cardrona ski fields. Mount Aspiring National Park sits to the western edge of the lake and offers wonderful walking tracks for all abilities; the Rob Roy Track is a great introduction to this spectacular park. Fishing, sailing and water skiing are popular pastimes on the lake and the many beach access points provide great spots for picnics and relaxing.

Lake Cruise and Island Nature Walk with Eco Wanaka - suggested activity

Contact Eco Wanaka 24 hours prior to the trip booked to confirm check in time and for weather check, freephone 0800 926 326 or 03 443 2869.

Trips departs from the Jetty next to the Marina. There is a car park with four toilets where you can park for four hours.

Lying close to the centre of Lake Wanaka is Mou Waho Island Nature Reserve. A unique glacial remnant of the last ice age, the island is also the historic site of early shipbuilding and used to be a stopping place for the steamers and log rafts that once plied the lake. Accessible from Wanaka by a 35-minute boat cruise, the landing is on the eastern side of the island where the remnants of the early settlement remain: a stone wharf and a hut. A well-formed track leads from the landing and climbs steadily through native bush to near the top of Tyrwhitt Peak. Just before the top, we see Arethusa Pool, a small lake on the island with small islands in it - very intriguing! From the top, we have a sweeping 360-degree view of Lake Wanaka, its surrounding mountains and valleys, and below Arethusa Pool. The perfect spot to stop for tea or coffee. Going back down the track gives us more time to take in our surroundings, listening to and watching the lively bird-life, and just enjoying this unique wildlife reserve. You will feel well rewarded as you re-join the boat for the cruise back to Wanaka. Total cruise time is 1.5 hours. The trip runs subject to weather and lake conditions. Depending on the planting season, you can help The Reforestation of Mou Waho by planting a tree.

Duration: Approximately 3.5 hours.

Please bring: A water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat, a waterproof jacket, and walking shoes or boots. There may also be an opportunity to swim if you would like to bring your bathing suit.

INCLUDED - Wanaka Pickleball

location at either Paetara Aspiring Central, 35 Plantation Road, Wānaka OR Wānaka Recreation Centre, 41 Sir Tim Wallis Drive, Wānaka.

Your accommodation: Edgewater Wanaka

Edgewater is Wanaka's leading hotel located right on the edge of Lake Wanaka. A short stroll to the town centres shops, cafes and restaurants and close to many walking trails the resort is ideal to explore this wonderful Alpine setting.

Room type: 1 x Premium Hotel Room, 2 x Adult Full Breakfast

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 204 kms / 127 miles : 2.3 hours

Day Four

Saturday 2nd May 2026 - Wanaka to Queenstown via Arrowtown, Queenstown Skyline Gondola Ride

Wanaka to Queenstown via Arrowtown

Leaving Wanaka you head over New Zealand's highest sealed road, Crown Range Road before dropping into Arrowtown. From here it's just a short drive to Queenstown, along the way passing Lakes Hayes before you catch your first glimpse of Lake Wakatipu and the bustling tourist mecca of Queenstown. This drive should be planned as a whole day to really enjoy the scenery and to allow time to explore the walks, and many stops en route.

INCLUDED - Queenstown Skyline Gondola Ride

Present your Skyline reference XXX upon arrival. Your open-dated voucher is valid for one time entry until XXX.

Skyline PhotoPass captures unforgettable moments at Skyline Queenstown with professional quality photos against the iconic shot of Queenstown Bay and the surrounding mountains from Bob's Peak. Images are included in this experience and can be downloaded instantly via QR code right after they are captured.

Please note, operating hours are may be subject to change. Please check the opening times online for the most up-to-date information.

Hop aboard the Skyline Gondola - the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! Sit back and relax as you enjoy panoramic views of The Remarkables, Walter Peak, Cecil Peak, Coronet Peak and the magnificent Lake Wakatipu. Once you get to the top you can take in the aweinspiring views of this spectacular landscape.

Your accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown

Scenic Suites Queenstown offers guests exquisite style and comfort, with a selection of rooms having spectacular views over Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps. The hotel prides itself on its 4-star hospitality that will make your stay in Queenstown even more memorable.

Room type: 1 x One Bedroom Suite with Lake View, 2 x adult full breakfast

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 75 kms / 47 miles : 1.2 hours

Day Five

Sunday 3rd May 2026 - Explore Queenstown, TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner

Explore Queenstown

Well-known as New Zealand's ‘adventure capital’, Queenstown is home to a range of adventures, from the world's first and most famous bungy jumps to jet boat thrills, white-water rafting, and skydiving. However, Queenstown offers far more than a fast-paced, action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of beautiful Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by many historic, gastronomic, and scenic wonders. Take a stroll through the beautiful lakefront parks and gardens, browse through market stalls on weekends, dine in wonderful al-fresco restaurants, or ride on the 100-year-old historic Steamship - TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak Station. Take the Queenstown Gondola up to Bob's Peak and soak up the panoramic views of the magnificent lake and mountain ranges. And after all of that, if you do want the adrenaline rush, Queenstown is known for taking your pick from the Shotover Jet, Canyon Swing, Zipline, Luge, or Heli-hike.

Shotover Jet Canyon Jet Boat Ride - suggested activity

Shotover Jet is the only company permitted to operate in the Shotover River Canyons. It's a thrilling ride! Skim past rocky outcrops at close range in your Shotover Jet 'Big Red', as you twist and turn through the narrow canyons at breathtaking speeds. And a major highlight - hold tight for the world-famous Shotover Jet full 360-degree spins!

It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please see here.

Gibbston Valley Winery, Cave Tour with Lunch and Transport - suggested activity

Gibbston Valley Winery is home of New Zealand's largest wine cave. They offer daily wine cave and tasting tours to the region's oldest vineyard - their very own Home Block. You will experience wine tasting in the wine cave and catch a glimpse of the winemakers in action. The tour includes a tasting of three varietals in the cave, 3-course lunch and a visit to the Home Block Vineyard, originally planted by the founder and wine pioneer Allan Brady in 1983.

INCLUDED - TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner

Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience, a delicious gourmet BBQ buffet meal, and a farm demonstration in a stunning lakeside setting. Take in the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and its surroundings as you cruise across the lake to the historic Walter Peak high country farm aboard the TSS Earnslaw Steamship. Enjoy the ambiance of the heart of the stately homestead while your Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant chef prepares a gourmet BBQ dinner. Your seasonal menu includes an extensive selection of local New Zealand produce, including succulent meats and a selection of delicious vegetables and salads. Complete your meal with your choice of delicious desserts, or New Zealand cheeses. After dinner, watch the farm dogs in action with a sheep-herding demonstration and say hello to the other farm animals. Finally, cruise home under the southern stars and enjoy the fresh night air as the lights of Queenstown draw ever closer.

Duration: approximately 4 hours

Your accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown

Scenic Suites Queenstown offers guests exquisite style and comfort, with a selection of rooms having spectacular views over Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps. The hotel prides itself on its 4-star hospitality that will make your stay in Queenstown even more memorable.

Room type: 1 x One Bedroom Suite with Lake View, 2 x adult full breakfast

Day Six

Monday 4th May 2026 - Queenstown to Te Anau

Queenstown to Te Anau

Leaving Queenstown you'll pass through the bustling suburb of Frankton and follow the shores of Lake Wakatipu. The Remarkables mountain range towers over you on the stretch of road known as "The Devil's Staircase" leading you to the township of Kingston. You'll venture into Southland before crossing the rolling tussock lands of Mossburn (deer capital of New Zealand) and shortly arriving at Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

INCLUDED - Te Anau Pickleball

20 Luxmore Drive, Te Anau

Your accommodation: Distinction Luxmore Hotel

The perfect base for all your Fiordland travel, Distinction Luxmore Hotel provides comfortable accommodation right in the heart of Te Anau.

Room type: 1 x Deluxe Room, 2 x adult full breakfast

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 164 kms / 102 miles : 1.9 hours

Day Seven

Tuesday 5th May 2026 - Te Anau to Milford Sound, returning to Te Anau

Te Anau to Milford Sound, returning to Te Anau

The magnificent Milford Road leading to Milford Sound offers some of the most beautiful and iconic scenery in the country. Countless photo opportunities mean this drive should not be rushed. From crystal clear lakes and towering mountains to lush glacier-formed meadows, this area is abundant with picture-perfect scenes.

Continue on through the Homer Tunnel, an engineering marvel at 1219 metres long. Most stops and points of interest are well signposted on the 121-kilometre road but don't underestimate how long this drive will take you with scenic stops.

Please note: Make sure to allow 2.5 hours each direction, this takes into account the current road works on the Milford Road and quick photo stops. If you wish to do any of the walks please consider the time required.

Important Notice: If you’re driving to Milford Sound between May 1st and November 30th, you may be legally required to carry snow chains in your vehicle and use them when advised.

INCLUDED - Cruise Milford Sound on the Milford Adventurer includes Picnic Lunch

Includes Picnic Lunch

Escape the crowds and experience the magnificence of Milford Sound on board the Milford Adventurer. This intimate cruise with a maximum of just 70 passengers means you'll get the best vantage point for the many waterfalls and amazing wildlife that visit the fiord, including the resident fur seals. The smaller vessel size means the Milford Adventurer can get closer to waterfalls and wildlife and your captain will share their local knowledge of Fiordland, Milford Sound and the flora and fauna. On board you can enjoy the complimentary coffee, tea and biscuits and lunch can also be ordered in advance.

Please note: Visitors to Milford Sound who wish to park in the main Milford Sound car parks will be charged $10+ NZD per 1 hour, payable directly and by credit card only, by way of a pay by plate system.

Car parks in the Deepwater Basin Park & Ride area, just outside of Milford Sound, will remain free of charge. For up-to-date information regarding parking charges and free shuttle services.

There are pleasant, well maintained short walking tracks to the terminal, café, nature walk and other amenities. Please be aware that these free car parks will fill up very quickly in the mornings of summer months. Our recommendation is that you arrive in Milford Sound at least one hour prior to your scheduled cruise departure, and up to one and a half hours prior to your scheduled cruise departure in the peak of the summer period.

Your accommodation: Distinction Luxmore Hotel

The perfect base for all your Fiordland travel, Distinction Luxmore Hotel provides comfortable accommodation right in the heart of Te Anau.

Room type: 1 x Deluxe Room, 2 x adult full breakfast

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 233 kms / 145 miles : 3.6 hours

Day Eight

Wednesday 6th May 2026 - Te Anau to Invercargill via Southern Scenic Route

Te Anau to Invercargill via Southern Scenic Route

Heading South and onto the Southern Scenic route the drive from Te Anau to Manapouri to Invercargill passes through some wonderful and often overlooked regions of Southland. The Blackmount Road offers some great side trips if you have the time and one in particular is the 50 kilometre round trip to Lake Haruoko, New Zealand's deepest lake. A little further south is the Clifden suspension bridge which dates back to 1899. The early sawmilling settlement of Tautapere is next. Known as the 'hole in the bush' the town features an attractive domain. Orepuki on the coast was once 'almost' a gold town but the fine dust proved too hard to extract commercially. You can still sometimes see gold dust in the beach sand at Monkey Bay

Riverton is Southland's oldest community established by whalers in the 1830's and many of the original cottages have survived throughout the town. The Riverton Early Settlers Museum tells the story well.

INCLUDED - Invercargill Pickleball

Badminton Southland, 21 Surrey Park Road, Invercargill

Your accommodation: The Langlands

The Langlands Hotel is Invercargill’s newest accommodation experience. This seven-storey, 4.5 star hotel brings contemporary style to the inner city. The interior is a subtle representation of Murihiku and boasts five eateries and bars, all with bespoke furniture, crafted menus and modern surroundings.

Room type: 1 x Superior Queen, 2 x Buffet Breakfast

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 177 kms / 110 miles : 2.1 hours

Day Nine

Thursday 7th May 2026 - Invercargill to Dunedin via Southern Scenic Route

Invercargill to Dunedin via Southern Scenic Route

Traveling from Invercargill to Dunedin via the Southern Scenic Route is a spectacular journey through the ruggedly beautiful Catlins region. While the direct route is quicker, this scenic alternative is best enjoyed as a full-day road trip, offering countless opportunities to explore natural wonders along the way.

Start your adventure at Slope Point, the southernmost point of the South Island. A short walk across farmland leads to the iconic yellow sign marking the spot, surrounded by windswept trees permanently shaped by powerful southerlies.

Next, head to Curio Bay, a geological and wildlife hotspot. At low tide, you can walk among a 180-million-year-old petrified forest, and if you're lucky, spot Hector’s dolphins playing in the surf or catch a glimpse of rare yellow-eyed penguins.

Don’t miss other breathtaking highlights like McLean Falls and the scenic lookout at Florence Hill. In Papatowai, step into the whimsical world of The Lost Gypsy Gallery—a must-see attraction housed in a converted bus, filled with eccentric, interactive automata that delight visitors of all ages.

There’s also a well-known eatery in Papatowai, perfect for a relaxing stop if you’re in need of refreshments.

Continue your journey with stops at beautiful waterfalls like Matai Falls and Purakaunui Falls, before reaching Nugget Point. This wildlife-rich destination features an iconic lighthouse and stunning ocean views—an unforgettable way to round out your scenic detour. From there, head north toward Dunedin, with memories of one of New Zealand’s most enchanting coastal drives.

INCLUDED - Dunedin Pickleball plus

Kaikorai College, 500 Kaikorai Valley Road, Bradford, Dunedin

Your accommodation: Distinction Dunedin Hotel

Distinction Dunedin Hotel occupies the grand Chief Post Office built in the 1930’s. This art deco inspired building has recently been transformed into a 4 star hotel with elegant décor, set in the heart of the city.

Room type: 1 x Studio, 2 x adult full breakfast

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 281 kms / 174 miles : 4.2 hours

Day Ten

Friday 8th May 2026 - Explore Dunedin, Taieri Gorge Railway Scenic Train

Explore Dunedin

Dunedin, known in Māori as Ōtepoti, is referred to as the "Edinburgh of the Southern Hemisphere". The city has a rightly deserved reputation as one of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere. Of particular note is Dunedin Railway Station, built 1904 - 1906, and St Paul's Cathedral in the Octagon. The Otago Museum is renowned for its Māori and Pacific Island collections and natural history displays. A visit to the Speights, New Zealand's oldest brewery, is also considered a must while in Dunedin. The Botanic Gardens is a great spot and at the right time of year, you can witness the Rhododendron Dell in bloom. The Otago Peninsula is the only home in the world to the Northern Royal Albatross. The Peninsula can be visited for the day from Dunedin and the stunning harbor landscape and wildlife are worth exploring. High among the rolling hills of the Peninsula is Larnach Castle, the grand home of an early politician. Construction of the castle began in 1871 and was completed 12 years later. From here, views out to sea and back towards the city emphasize the singular beauty of Dunedin and its jewel-like harbor.

INCLUDED - Taieri Gorge Railway Scenic Train

The Taieri Gorge train departs Dunedin Railway Station at 09:30am, please check in no later than 09:00am. You will return to Dunedin at 14:35pm.

Please bring comfortable clothing, warm layers, and waterproof gear if you plan to disembark, as weather can be unpredictable

Sit back, relax and experience the breathtaking Taieri Gorge on Dunedin's iconic scenic train journey! Travel through stunning Otago landscapes, marvel at the engineering feats of the historic Taieri Gorge Railway, and hear captivating stories of the region's past from our onboard commentary. See the majestic Wingatui Viaduct, the tallest wrought iron structure in Australasia, and explore hand-carved tunnels. Enjoy comfortable, all-weather travel with onboard refreshments and photo stops. Choose a return trip from Dunedin's historic Railway Station or opt for a one-way journey to Pukerangi. Escape the digital world and reconnect with nature on this unforgettable New Zealand rail experience.

Duration: Approx 5hrs

Your accommodation: Distinction Dunedin Hotel

Distinction Dunedin Hotel occupies the grand Chief Post Office built in the 1930’s. This art deco inspired building has recently been transformed into a 4 star hotel with elegant décor, set in the heart of the city.

Room type: 1 x Studio, 2 x adult full breakfast

Day Eleven

Saturday 9th May 2026 - Larnach Castle and Gardens, Dunedin to Oamaru

INCLUDED - Larnach Castle and Gardens

General Admission (self-guided) is from 09:00 with the last admission at 17:00.

Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle, was built in 1871 by politician and merchant William Larnach, a visionary who played a key role in shaping the country's early history. Constructed for his beloved first wife, Eliza, the castle’s shell took 200 workmen three years to complete, followed by twelve years of intricate interior craftsmanship. Perched high on the Otago Peninsula, the castle offers stunning views over Dunedin City. Its gardens hold International Garden of Significance status and feature a unique collection of antiques, including a rare nine-piece Totara knot suite. The Ballroom Café provides the perfect spot to relax and enjoy refreshments while reflecting on your visit. The ballroom itself has a fascinating history, having once served as an asylum, an antique sales room, and even a sheep pen before its beautiful restoration. With a selfguided tour, you can explore the castle and gardens at your own pace.

Monarch Wildlife Cruise from Wellers Rock - suggested activity

An unforgettable experience viewing rare and fascinating wildlife. Board the Monarch Boat and take in the fascinating sight of the Northern Royal Albatross as it comes into nest on the spectacular cliffs of Taiaroa, Otago Peninsula. You'll also see eight other species of birds including sooty shearwaters and petrels as well as sea lions and fur seals and if you're lucky dolphins and whales.

Note: Allow 45-60 minutes drive time from Dunedin City.

Dunedin to Oamaru

The drive follows the Otago Coastline as you depart Dunedin. The first stop should be Moeraki and its famous Moeraki Boulders. The town of Oamaru is most famous for its buildings constructed with the unique locally quarried white stone. Explore the old quarter then watch the blue penguins come ashore at dusk.

Your accommodation: Highfield Mews

Quiet and private in a village like setting, Highfield Mews Motel places you in the heart of Oamaru. Within easy walking distance of the town's cafes, restaurants, shops and Historic Precinct. Highfield Mews offers many features and comforts that result in superb suites.

Room type: 1 x Superior King Spa

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 109 kms / 68 miles : 1.3 hours

Day Twelve

Sunday 10th May 2026 - Oamaru to Christchurch, Dinner onboard the Christchurch Restaurant Tram

Oamaru to Christchurch

The town of Oamaru is most famous for its buildings constructed with unique locally quarried white stone. Explore the old quarter or if you don't mind a late arrival into Christchurch then stay around to see the blue penguins come ashore at dusk. The port town of Timaru is next and then the vast Canterbury Plains. Crossing New Zealand's longest bridge at Rakaia you can view some great examples of the South Island's famous braided rivers.

INCLUDED - Dinner onboard the Christchurch Restaurant Tram

A truly unique dining experience in the heart of Christchurch. You'll board New Zealand's only dining tram for an unforgettable moving fourcourse restaurant experience. Enjoy a curated fine dining-style menu while taking in the city sights on your journey through the streets of central Christchurch. This experience includes a meal with multiple courses as the tramway route passes New Regent Street, the Avon River, High Street, and Victoria Square.

Your accommodation: Distinction Hotel Christchurch

This luxury hotel is centrally located in the revitalised Cathedral Square in the heart of the city, a short stroll from the Avon River, Botanical Gardens, Christchurch Casino, Cashel Mall and new Christchurch Convention Centre.

Room type: 1 x Classic King Room, 2 x Adult Full Breakfas

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg is: 232 kms / 144 miles : 2.8 hours

Day Thirteen

Monday 11th May 2026 - Private Transfer from Christchurch Accommodation to Christchurch International Airport with Christchurch Touring Company, Farewell from Aotearoa / New Zealand

INCLUDED - Private Transfer from Christchurch Accommodation to Christchurch International Airport with Christchurch Touring Company

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to Christchurch International Airport in time for your departing flight.

Please note: The earliest collection time for international flights is 3 hours before the flight.

Farewell from Aotearoa / New Zealand

Safe travels today as you bid farewell to Aotearoa / New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. In Māori, it is said mā te wā, which is not goodbye, it is see you soon!