On arrival in Christchurch you will be transferred by private car to your hotel. Spend some time at leisure to relax or explore on your own.

This evening, join your Journey Director for a Welcome Reception with local wines and canapés. Stay: Hotel Montreal Christchurch

It's all aboard the TranzAlpine train. Rated as one of the world's great scenic railway journeys, you'll travel in comfort across the Canterbury Plains through the Southern Alps. From Arthur's Pass, visit the small town of Hokitika.

Later we continue to Franz Josef/Waiau. Your eco-friendly accommodation is set amid native bush, with an emphasis on relaxation and rejuvenation.

This evening, why not enjoy Franz Josef's/Waiau local geothermal hot pools? (B/D) Stay: Te Waonui Forest Retreat

An experienced local guide will host you on a walking tour in one of the most pristine places on Earth. They will share their knowledge of the glacier region, leaving you with a whole new appreciation for Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere.

Later, you may want to get up close to the glaciers on an optional helicopter flight. (B)

This morning it's time for an adventure as we travel in a purpose-built fully enclosed river jet boat and journey down the Haast River.

After a lunch stop at Makarora we head to Queenstown, taking time to stop to explore the historic gold-mining village of Arrowtown. The adventure-capital awaits you for your extended 3 night stay, and you'll have the opportunity to explore it during an orientation tour when you arrive. (B/D) Stay: Hotel St Moritz Queenstown

Today is at leisure to discover Queenstown – your way. (B)

Make the most of your extended stay in Queenstown. Why not sit back and enjoy a peaceful cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard New Zealand's oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak Station.

Tonight, enjoy a Local Dining Experience at one of Queenstown's exclusive restaurants. (B/D)

Travel south along Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau. Stop for lunch at a local farm, where you will hear stories of life on the land and meet a cuddly animal or two. Continue through the rainforest of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Fiordland National Park, sighting glaciers and mountain ranges onto the amazing Mirror Lake before driving through the handhewn Homer Tunnel. Spend the night aboard the iconic Milford Mariner and wake up in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

The cruise style is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to view the fiord's spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and diverse wildlife such as seals, penguins and dolphins. Hear from the specialist nature guide on board or choose to explore the shoreline by kayak or small boat. Enjoy exclusive access to the Fiord once the day trippers depart the sound. (B/L/D) Stay: Milford Mariner

We leave the majestic Fiordland National Park for the fertile sheep-dotted pastures of South Otago through to Invercargill, a commercial hub full of grand architecture and gardens. A city obsessed with motoring history, there are tributes to speed legends across town, from Burt Munro to Bill Richardson and his shed full of classic vehicles. Enjoy a tour of the largest private collection of its type in the world.

Later this afternoon you will have some free time to explore this city, and an evening free to seek out local hot spots. (B) Stay: The Langlands

Board a ferry at Bluff and cruise to Stewart Island, known by locals as Rakiura the Māori reference to Glowing Skies. It has been described as rugged, pristine and tranquil – and rightly so as 97% of the island is designated National Park and Conservation Estate. This means the birdlife, native flora & fauna and other natural environmental features have been able to thrive. You will gain an entertaining insight into New Zealand's southernmost community and learn about the history and environment of Stewart Island on a Village and Bays tour.

Later you will join a leisurely cruise, including a picnic lunch, around Paterson Inlet that will take you past unique places including Acker's Cottage before docking at Ulva Island to admire the bird life and native flora. Travel back to Invercargill for a relaxed dinner. (B/L/D)

Enjoy a relaxed start before departing for Dunedin. On a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience visit Dunedin Craft Distillers, who produce botanical spirits from surplus bread and bakery products that would otherwise go to landfill. Venture just next door for a special Chocolate tasting journey at OCHO Chocolate. (B/D) Stay: Distinction Dunedin

Travel up the east coast of the South Island via Omarau and Timaru to Christchurch for a sightseeing tour. This evening, toast your tour at a Celebration Dinner with your new-found friends and Journey Director. Stay: Hotel Montreal Christchurch

Say farewell to your fellow travellers as we transfer you by private car to Christchurch Airport for your onward flight. (B)

Upon your arrival in Christchurch, travel to your hotel by private car transfer. Join your Journey Director for a Welcome Reception dinner with local wine and canapés. Stay: Hotel Montreal Christchurch (D)

Begin your day by exploring Christchurch's buzzing city sights before journeying to the brilliant bright blue waters of Lake Tekapo. You'll visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, which was built in 1935, and the first church in the Mackenzie Basin.

Continue your adventure to the exquisite Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat, where you'll indulge in a sophisticated High Tea complemented by local sparkling wine and the majestic views of Lake Pukaki. This experience supports the owners, Kaye and Luke Paardekooper, ongoing land regeneration project, which was initiated in 2010 and has been thriving ever since.

Conclude your day at the charming Lake Ohau Lodge, nestled in the Mackenzie High Country and surrounded by breathtaking wilderness. The Main Lodge boasts a cozy open fire and expansive windows with stunning views of the lake, providing the perfect setting to unwind before a delectable dinner with wine. Stay: Lake Ohau Lodge (B/D)

Travel through Lindis Pass to Cromwell. Visit Mrs. Jones Orchard for fresh produce, then explore the Highlands Museum, a paradise for car enthusiasts and novices alike. Enjoy a special wine tasting experience and delicious lunch at Gibbston Valley's Kinross cellar door.

Continue your journey to Arrowtown, a charming village with a rich gold rush heritage, before reaching scenic Queenstown for the night. Stay: The Rees Hotel (B/L)

Today, explore Queenstown at your own pace. Why not sit back and enjoy a peaceful cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard New Zealand's oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak Station (own expense). As the day winds down, prepare for an unforgettable evening at the Bathhouse, an elegant dining establishment spectacularly situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Savour a sumptuous meal while taking in vast, serene lakeside view, creating a perfect finale to your day. (B)

Travel the Devil's Staircase to Te Anau for lunch at a local farm, immersing yourself in the authentic flavours of the region. Journey through Fiordland National Park, marveling at glaciers and Mirror Lake, then traverse Homer Tunnel. Spend the night on the iconic Milford Mariner for an exclusive overnight experience. The cruise style is relaxed, allowing plenty of time to view the fiord's spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains, and diverse wildlife. Stay: Milford Mariner, overnight cruise (B/D)

Depart the serene beauty of Fiordland National Park and journey to the picturesque town of Wānaka, nestled amidst the majestic Southern Alps and gracing the shores of Lake Wānaka. This idyllic town offers a perfect blend of natural splendour and leisurely pursuits. Upon arrival, choose between a variety of outdoor activities at the opulent Edgewater Lake Wānaka. Whether you prefer to explore the scenic surroundings by mountain bike, enjoy a friendly game of tennis, or relax with classic lawn games, there is something for everyone.

As the day concludes, savour a delightful dinner accompanied by wine, set against the tranquil backdrop of Lake Wānaka. Stay: Edgewater Lake Wānaka Hotel (B/D)

Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Wānaka, passing the quiet waters of Lake Hawea and the picturesque settlement of Makarora – a hikers hub surrounded by vast alpine scenery and river valleys of lush temperate rainforest. Continue to the West Coast town of Haast, full of diverse landscapes that will captivate your senses. Experience a Haast River jet boat adventure, gliding through pristine waterways surrounded by breathtaking wilderness. This exhilarating ride offers a unique perspective of the region's natural beauty.

Arrive in Franz Josef and settle into the splendid Te Waonui Forest Retreat. In the evening, indulge in a sumptuous dinner accompanied by wine, enveloped by the serene ambiance of this forest sanctuary. Stay: Te Waonui Forest Retreat (B/D)

Begin your day at a leisurely pace, soaking in the spectacular surroundings of Franz Josef. Explore this captivating region with a local guide, who will illuminate the wonders of its majestic glaciers, verdant rainforests, and uniquely varied landscapes.

After a day of immersive discovery, return to the calm respite of Te Waonui Forest Retreat, where you can unwind and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. (B)

Depart Franz Josef for Hokitika, where you will go on an informative walking tour led by a local history expert. Learn about the West Coast's rich heritage, including shipwrecks, gold miners, and pounamu hunters. Then, enjoy a scenic TranzAlpine ride from Arthur's Pass to Christchurch, marveling at the Southern Alps' breathtaking scenery. Conclude with a Celebration Dinner in Christchurch, toasting to your unforgettable journey. Stay: Hotel Montreal Christchurch (B/D)

As your extraordinary journey draws to a close, enjoy a seamless transfer to Christchurch Airport. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories made during your exploration of New Zealand. (B)