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Conquer the South Island's iconic sights and hidden delights on the Southern Kiwi Small Group Tour. Traverse glaciers, cruise majestic fiords, and bungee jump through heart-pounding scenery. With a small group and expert guide, experience New Zealand's adventure capital, Queenstown, and untouched natural wonders like Milford Sound. This is the ultimate Southern Island escape!
Conquer the South Island's iconic sights and hidden delights on the Southern Kiwi Small Group Tour. Traverse glaciers, cruise majestic fiords, and bungee jump through heart-pounding scenery. With a small group and expert guide, experience New Zealand's adventure capital, Queenstown, and untouched natural wonders like Milford Sound. This is the ultimate Southern Island escape!
Our most immersive South Island tour! From the secluded beaches in Abel Tasman National Park, to the thermal mineral pools in Hanmer Springs, and adrenaline capital Queenstown, this south island adventure has it all. Adventure activities are aplenty throughout the trip, as well as an abundance of wildlife. With accommodation and some activities included (see below); our tours are hassle-free, authentic experiences for those short on time.
Includes
- Tawanui Farm
- Wine Tasting
- Hanmer Thermal Pools
- Iron Ridge Quarry
- Penguins Nature Tour
- Street Art Tour
- Greenstone Carving Tour
- Visit Wildlife Centre
- Milford Sound cruise
- Hostel / Hotel Accom
- Small Group Adventure
- Experience driver guide
- Meals included
- Trip length: 15 Days
- Group size: Max 24
- Start: Christchurch
- End: Christchurch
- Vehicle: Airconditoned Mini Bus
- Sleep: Hostels & Homestays
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Physical Demand:
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Pictures / Videos
Itinerary
See MapDay 1 – Welcome to Christchurch
Included Accommodation: Hotel Give (or similar)
Welcome to Christchurch - the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand and the start of your Southern Kiwi tour. Ōtautahi (Christchurch) is a vibrant city alive with everything from art, exhibitions, history, and hidden gems. Check out the Riverside Markets for a coffee, beverage or a bite to eat, stroll through the botanical gardens, or wander around the streets and discover the lively street art, murals and graffiti.
Included:
- Welcome evening
Day 2 – Christchurch to Kaikōura
Included Accommodation: Dusky Lodge (or similar)
We're setting off from Christchurch bright and early to venture up the East Coast and start uncovering some hidden treasures. First on the list is Tawanui Farm, a sprawling 330-hectare sheep and beef farm. Immerse yourself in the authentic rural life of New Zealand and witness the farm in action.
Afterwards, our journey continues northward to the renowned town of Kaikōura, famous for its rich marine life. This afternoon, encounter majestic whales in their natural habitat from the water or even from above with Wings Over Whales. For those not wanting to get up close and personal with sea creatures, take a stroll on the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway. Observe seals and seabirds, explore historic pā and whaling sites and enjoy cliff top views of the sea and mountains.
As the day draws to a close, savour the evening by unwinding on the beautiful beach or indulging in some of New Zealand's finest seafood for your dinner. The name "Kaikōura" translates to "eat crayfish," with "kai" meaning to eat and "koura" meaning crayfish, making it a seafood lover's paradise.
Included:
- Tawanui Farm visit
- Kaikōura Peninsula Walk
Paid Options:
- Dolphin Watch
- Kaikōura Kayaks Wildlife Tour
- The Sauna Project Kaikōura
- Dolphin Swimming
- Whale Watching
- Wings Over Whales
- Ziplining & Native Forest Trail
Day 3 – Kaikōura to Abel Tasman
Included Accommodation: Bethany Park Kaiteriteri (or similar)
This morning calls for a dolphin adventure! Wake up bright and early and get up close and personal with the playful Dusky dolphin as it searches for its breakfast.
For the rest not bright and early risers, kick-off today with breakfast before we hit the road to Abel Tasman National Park after picking up the guests hanging out with the dolphins this morning. Our first stop of the day will be Kekerengu for a quick coffee, snack and toilet break. We make our way to the Marlborough region, a place famous for its wine. It is here we will join a tour of the Vines Village Winery and get a taste of some of what they produce.
Included:
- Wine Tasting - Whitehaven Cellar Door
- Wine Tasting - Cheese & Cheers
Day 4 – Abel Tasman Free Day
Included Accommodation: Bethany Park Kaiteriteri (or similar)
Today is your day to get out into Abel Tasman National Park at your leisure. The park has plenty to offer, from its golden sand beaches, crystal clear waters and native forests, this natural haven is teeming with life. Choose from a range of activities to keep yourself entertained. See Abel Tasman from above with a skydive, jump in with the wildlife on a kayaking adventure, experience the naturally carved canyons up close while canyoning or experience the Abel Tasman National Park the peaceful and relaxing way during a sailing trip.
Free Activities:
- Explore the Abel Tasman National Park
Paid Options:
- Full day sail in Abel Tasman National Park
- Skydive Abel Tasman
- Abel Tasman canyoning
- Kahu Kayaks
Day 5 – Abel Tasman to Hanmer Springs
Included Accommodation: Tussock Peak Lodge (or similar)
Hopefully you enjoyed your day out in the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park and are ready for today. Our first stop of the day is at the iconic Nelson Lakes, so you can get your legendary wharf jumping shot (if you’re brave!) before continuing onto Hanmer Springs. This afternoon after arriving at Hanmer Springs we will go on a Hikoi (walk) on the Hanmer Springs Sculpture Walk. Discover the whimsical wooden sculptures hidden along this short and peaceful walk. That concludes our day but get together with your fellow travellers and head out to the many restaurants & bars which are all within walking distance of tonight's accommodation.
Included:
- Nelson Lakes
- Hanmer Springs sculpture walk
Day 6 – Hanmer Springs Free Day
Included Accommodation: Tussock Peak Lodge (or similar)
Today brings a full day in Hanmer Springs that you get to spend at your leisure. This resort town is the ultimate destination for adventure, relaxation, and indulgence and is ready and waiting to be explored. You have an entry ticket to the iconic Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa where you can take your pick of soaking in one of the 22 outdoor thermal pools, get your adrenaline racing on one of the four hydroslides and on New Zealand's largest aquatic thrill ride, Conical Thrill.
There is more to do in Hanmer Springs than the thermal pools. Take some time to discover the quaint charm of the town’s main street; lined with boutique shops, cafes and eateries.
Included:
- Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools
Paid Options:
- Manuka Skies Stargazing
- Mountain Bike Hire with Map
- Archery
- Outdoor Puzzle Hunt
Day 7 – Hanmer Springs to Christchurch
Included Accommodation: Hotel Give (or similar)
Hopefully, you had a great time yesterday exploring the best of what Hanmer Springs has to offer. This morning we head head towards Christchurch, making a stop at Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park along the way. The sculpture park is set in the stunning North Canterbury landscape overlooking the Waipara River Valley. Here you will find an impressive collection of sculptures ranging in size and crafted in diverse mediums like bronze, steel, corten steel, pounamu and sandstone. These creations are the works of Raymond Herver, a contemporary New Zealand artist who possesses a mischievous flair in his artwork, crafting interactive and unique pieces.
Included:
- Iron Ridge Quarry Sculpture Park
- Christchurch Street Art tour
Paid Options:
- Waka on Avon
Day 8 – Christchurch to Akaroa
Included Accommodation: Hotel Give (or similar)
Today we are off on a day trip to the hidden gem of Akaroa. A unique village with elements of Māori, French, and English culture, Akaroa is one of the oldest and best-preserved heritage towns in the South Island and is only a short drive away from Christchurch. Along the way, we will stop off at Little River Historic Railway Station where you can explore the old trains, model railway and the craft shop. We will then continue on our way to Akaroa Harbour after we have stopped at Hilltop Lookout Point to look over the harbour.
The main attraction of today is a visit to Pōhatu Penguins, keep a look out for Peek & Boo which are Kiwi Experiences' very own sponsored penguins. Join a nature tour which is Included in your trip or you can UPGRADE to the Wildlife Sea Kayaking Safari. Before we head back to Christchurch, there will be some spare time. The Akaroa area is a great and easy place to explore on foot. Some options include walking up to the lighthouse and Akaroa lookout point, grabbing a bite to eat at the Waterfront shops & cafes or walking to explore the main wharf.
Included:
- Pōhatu Penguins 2 hour nature tour
Paid Options:
- Wildlife Sea Kayaking Safari
- Akaroa Nature Cruise
Day 9 – Christchurch to Franz Josef
Included Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)
Today we travel from coast to coast right over the Southern Alps passing through the Arthur’s Pass National Park, one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand. Arthurs Pass is a landscape of two halves, along the eastern side we’ll venture through riverbeds and beech forest, and on the western side deeply gorged rivers and dense rainforest. Along this road, we will stop off at Castle Hill where you can wander through majestic limestone rock formations which have special significance to Ngāi Tahu. We will then make our way on to Devil's Punchbowl where we will walk through lush beech forest to a magnificent 131m waterfall where you can feel the full force and sound of the fresh mountain waterfall.
After our scenic hikes during our travels, we will head on to Franz Josef where we will be spending the next two days unwinding in the amazing Franz Josef region. Franz Josef is home to one of the steepest glaciers in the country and it typically moves faster than an average glacier. We will be staying at the Rainforest Retreat, the perfect base to explore Franz Josef and the perfect place to enjoy tonight's pizza dinner with the crew.
Included:
- Devils Punchbowl waterfalls
- Walk the Castle Hill track
Day 10 – Franz Josef Free Day
Included Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)
Incredible Franz Josef sits in the world heritage area, and the combination of alpine scenery and west coast rainforest makes for an epic setting for your free day. Immerse yourself in a unique opportunity and carve your own Pounamu (Greenstone) jewellery. You’ll learn more about the cultural significance of pounamu as you engage in this authentic cultural experience and depart with your special piece of Aotearoa New Zealand.
You then have the option to experience several activities within the Franz Josef area. Explore and walk on the ever-changing Franz Josef glacier, throw yourself out of a plane and see the area from above whilst skydiving or explore beyond the glaciers on a kayak tour. PLUS you could even go on an off-road adventure on a quad bike. Otherwise, you could opt to hop onboard a helicopter or scenic plane and get a bird's eye view of Franz Josef. If you would rather have a free and relaxing option, walk through the rainforest to a viewing area where the icy wonderland of the Franz Josef glacier lies just 750m away.
After a big day exploring Franz Josef, head back to Rainforest Retreat and have a relaxing night in. Grab some dinner at the onsite restaurant & bar and hop into the spa.
Included:
- Greenstone jewellery carving
Paid Options:
- Franz Josef Scenic Flight - 50 Minutes
- Glacier Encounter
- Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike
- Kayak & Walk
- Kayak Classic
- Neve Discoverer - 20 Minute Scenic Flight
- Off-Road Adventure Tour
- Skydive Franz Josef
- Tasman Experience
- Tasman Experience & 13,000ft skydive
Day 11 – Franz Josef to Lake Hawea / Wanaka
Included Accommodation:
- Hawea Hotel (or similar until 30 April 2026)
- Adventure Hostel Wanaka (or similar from 01 May - 31 October 2026)
- The Brownston Wanaka (or similar from 01 November 2026 - 30 April 2027)
From 01 May 2026, the overnight stop at Lake Hawea will change to an overnight stop in Wanaka instead. The bus will bypass Lake Hawea on the way to Wanaka.
We start the day off with a trip to the Franz Josef Wildlife Centre where you can see the largest kiwi incubation and hatching facility in the South Island. You are guaranteed to see a live kiwi inside the open nocturnal house, as well as Tuatara, a reptile only found in New Zealand. After the wildlife centre, we will head on to Fox Glacier's lookout point (this is weather dependent) before making our way to Lake Matheson where there are 3 walk options to choose from. We have about 1 hour and 45 minutes of driving ahead of us before arriving into Haast village for lunch so please make sure you get snacks and use the toilets. As mentioned earlier, our next stop will be Haast Village for our lunch stop.
This afternoon we will arrive at our accommodation for the evening, Hawea Hotel. After checking into the accommodation, why not go for a walk along the Hawea Esplanade which runs alongside Lake Hawea Lakefront or go for a refreshing dip in the lake? After this, the rest of the day is at your leisure. Enjoy!
Included:
- Thunder Creek Falls
- Lake Matheson mirror lake
- Fox Josef Glacier Lookout
Paid Options:
- West Coast Wildlife centre
Day 12 – Lake Hawea / Wanaka to Queenstown
Included Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown (or similar)
From 01 May 2026 due to the change in the overnight stop, your day will begin in Wanaka.
Lets head towards Queenstown, the adrenaline capital of Aotearoa (New Zealand). Ever heard of the famous #ThatWanakaTree? Well lucky for you, you will get to see it with your own eyes! Snap some photos for your socials and tick the tree off your bucket list. That being said, we will spend some time in Wanaka which is a resort town set on the southern end of its namesake lake with views of snowcapped mountains. It's the gateway to the Southern Alps' Mount Aspiring National Park, a wilderness of glaciers, beech forests and alpine lakes.
Next up we’ll visit the world’s first commercial bungy site – The Kawarau Bridge. Only the bravest travellers will dare to sign up for this iconic bucket list bungy! Once we arrive in Queenstown, we will head to the spectacular waterfront; here, you can grab a bite to eat, perhaps enjoy a drink and enjoy the Queenstown nightlife with all the crew!
Included:
- #ThatWanakaTree
- Kawarau Bridge Bungy Visit
- Arrowtown Visit
Paid Options:
- Spirit of Queenstown
Day 13 – Queenstown Free Day
Included Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown (or similar)
Queenstown has something for everyone; here, you can seek adrenaline-fueled adventures or enjoy a more leisurely exploration of the natural playground. Each season offers its own unique vibe, and most activities can be accessed all year round. If you’re looking for adrenaline, bungy jumping, jetboating, white water rafting and sky diving are all available. If a more relaxed pace is calling, hire a bike, take a stroll, enjoy a boat cruise, relax at a spa, or enjoy one of the many vineyards in the area. Don't forget to also check out iconic the Ferg brands in Queenstown, you will not regret it.
Paid Options:
- Kawarau Bridge AJ Hackett - various options
- Kiwi Crawl
- NZONE Skydive
- Altitude Day Tours
- Dart River Adventures
- Shotover Jet Boat Ride
- AJ Hackett (various options)
- Canyon Explorer
- Kawarau White Water Rafting
- Shotover Canyon Swing
- Spirit of Queenstown
- TSS and Walter Peak dining
- Walter Peak Horse Trek and Cruise
- Cardrona Resort (Winter)
- Cardrona Resort (Summer)
Day 14 – Queenstown to Milford Sound Return
Included Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown (or similar)
Today you will be heading to the 8th wonder of the world, Piopiotahi (Milford Sound). Our day will begin bright and early this morning so make sure you get a good night's rest.
Our first stop of the day will be Te Anau where you can stretch your legs, have a quick look around and grab any food or drink you might need before we continue the awe-inspiring drive towards Milford Sound with spots we will stop along the way for you to grab those perfect photos. Milford Sound is nestled within Fiordland National Park, known for its pristine wildlife, which marvels at any time of year and in any weather; Milford Sound is rich in geological formations, captivating waterfalls and, unsurprisingly, one of the most amazing scenic day trips to do in New Zealand. Enjoy a two-hour (Included) scenic boat cruise through the inky blackwater; keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, fur seals, and an abundance of birdlife; if you’re really lucky, you’ll spot the endangered Fiordland Crested Penguin. After your cruise, we return to Queenstown for the evening.
Included:
- 2 hour Milford Sound boat cruise
- Day Trip to Milford Sound
Day 15 – Queenstown to Christchurch
Today wraps up your Southern Kiwi trip. We hope you had a great time and are leaving with nothing but amazing memories. Before the trip comes to an end, we will be making our way up to Christchurch with several stops along the way to soak in the last of the beautiful South Island. We will stop at Lake Pukaki, an alpine lake that is famous for its vibrant bright blue colour. Our next stop will be Lake Tekapo around lunch time so it is the perfect place to grab some lunch before we head to Church of the Good Shepherd. We now hit the road for Christchurch where the trip concludes.
Free Activities:
- Church of the Good Shepherd
Included:
- Lake Pukaki Visit
