New Zealand's Southern Drift
Deal Number 21500351
Interest Free
Just go. Make your dream holiday your next holiday with easy Interest Free repayments over the next 9 months on packages over $999. For full product information please see our interest free page.
From the vibrant city of Christchurch to the serene shores of Lake Ohau. Wander through charming historic towns from Cromwell to Arrowtown. Sample world class wines and delight in gourmet cuisine amidst the beauty of native flora and fauna.
Duration 9 days
Destination Christchurch
Company AAT Kings
Availability From 21/10/2026 to 15/04/2027
Call 133 133

What's Included?
- Highlights
- 8 Breakfast (B)3 Dinner (D)1 Lunch (L)Medium level of fitness required
- Day 1: Flights to arrive prior to 4
- 00pm into Christchurch AirportDay 9: Flights to depart anytime from Christchurch Airport Airport to Hotel transfers are available to purchase on request
- Flights to and from your tour are not included in the tour price
- Comfortable walking shoes Warm layers Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat Water bottle Camera
- Join Pavolva Queen Angie at her Lake Tekapo home Explore Highlands Motorsport Park Museum Cromwell, home to rare, exclusive, and expensive vehicles Visit historic Arrowtown Cruise across Lake Wakatipu on TSS Earnslaw steamship Enjoy lunch at world-famous Fergburger in Queenstown Travel through spectacular Fiordland National Park Cruise overnight on breathtaking Milford Sound Kayak or travel by tender boat along Milford Sound's shoreline View Franz Josef Glacier from a panoramic viewpoint Travel over the Haast Pass and through iconic landscapes Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd at Lake Tekapo
Availability
- From 21/10/2026 to 15/04/2027
Visit Christchurch
Day 1
You don’t have to arrive in Christchurch early, but we recommend you do – this South Island city has some of New Zealand’s most innovative architecture, not to mention forward-thinking restaurants and bars.
Tonight, it's time to meet your Travel Director and travelling companions for drinks.
Day 2
Begin your day by exploring Christchurch's 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 was the first church in the Mackenzie Basin. You are then welcomed to the stunning lakeside home of Angie and Stan Taylor for afternoon tea. Retired farmers, baker Angie is the undisputed Pavlova Queen who will give a demonstration and explanation of the great trans-Tasman pavlova controversy, while Stan will regale you with tales of a lifetime spent farming. 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 family-style dinner.
Day 3
Travel through Lindis Pass to Cromwell.
Visit Mrs. Jones Orchard for fresh produce, then explore Highlands Museum, a paradise for car enthusiasts and novices alike. Continue your journey to Arrowtown, a charming village with a rich gold rush heritage, before reaching scenic Queenstown. Enjoy lunch at your leisure at cult eatery Fergburger, famous for its mouthwatering gourmet burgers and vibrant atmosphere.
Day 4
Take today at your own pace.
Like things fast and furious? Feel the wind in your hair on the high-octane jet boat ride, perhaps. There’s a reason why Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the country. Nature lover? Discover some of New Zealand’s feathered friends at a wildlife centre (both own expense).
Day 5
Start the day with a journey along the Devil's Staircase, with its dramatic landscapes leading you to the charming town of Te Anau.
Continue your adventure through the World Heritage-listed Fiordland National Park sighting glaciers, and mountain ranges en route to the amazing Mirror Lake before driving through the hand-hewn 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 fur seals and various seabirds. Hear from the specialist nature guide on board and explore the shoreline by kayak or tender. The Milford Mariner offers spacious viewing decks, a dining saloon with fully licensed bar, as well as an observation lounge. Dining included in your cruise are hors d’oeuvres followed by a three-course buffet meal, as well as a delicious cooked breakfast.
Day 6
Depart the serene beauty of Fiordland National Park and journey to the picturesque country 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. Your hotel is located in the heart of the village just a short walk from the lakefront and nestled among surrounding cafes and restaurants.
Day 7
Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Wānaka, passing the pristine 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 over the Haast Pass, the historic township of Fox Glacier awaits. Get some perspective on an optional scenic flight over Fox and Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere – if the weather behaves, you may even get a glacier landing (own expense).
Day 8
Todays drive north winds past lush rainforests and rugged coastlines to Hokitika, famous for its greenstone and arty, laid-back vibe.
From there, the road heads inland through the Southern Alps. As you climb toward Arthur’s Pass, the scenery shifts from rainforest to soaring peaks, rocky gorges, and sweeping tussock plains. Keep an eye out for cheeky kea (the world’s only alpine parrot) along the way! Once over the pass, the landscape softens again, opening up to wide Canterbury plains as you roll toward the bright lights of Christchurch. Tonight, enjoy dinner with your Travel Director, a fitting end to your New Zealand adventure.
Day 9
It’s time to say farewell and head home, sorting through snapshots of an unforgettable journey.
But the best souvenirs? The lasting memories of a holiday immersed in untamed nature and cultural experiences.
View our great airfares, hotels and travel insurance.
Departure dates and Pricing
Departure Date | Return Date | Availability | Price | Enquire |
---|---|---|---|---|
Wed 21st October, 202622/10/2025 | Thu 29th October, 202630/10/2025 | available | Per person from$0* | Enquire » |
Departure Date | Return Date | Availability | Price | Enquire |
---|---|---|---|---|
Wed 4th November, 202605/11/2025 | Thu 12th November, 202613/11/2025 | available | Per person from$0* | Enquire » |
Wed 11th November, 202612/11/2025 | Thu 19th November, 202620/11/2025 | available | Per person from$0* | Enquire » |
Departure Date | Return Date | Availability | Price | Enquire |
---|---|---|---|---|
Wed 2nd December, 202603/12/2025 | Thu 10th December, 202611/12/2025 | available | Per person from$0* | Enquire » |
Departure Date | Return Date | Availability | Price | Enquire |
---|---|---|---|---|
Wed 3rd February, 202705/02/2025 | Thu 11th February, 202713/02/2025 | available | Per person from$7615* | Enquire » |
Wed 17th February, 202719/02/2025 | Thu 25th February, 202727/02/2025 | available | Per person from$0* | Enquire » |
Wed 24th February, 202726/02/2025 | Thu 4th March, 202706/03/2025 | Sold Out | Per person from$0* |
Departure Date | Return Date | Availability | Price | Enquire |
---|---|---|---|---|
Wed 17th March, 202719/03/2025 | Thu 25th March, 202727/03/2025 | available | Per person from$0* | Enquire » |
Departure Date | Return Date | Availability | Price | Enquire |
---|---|---|---|---|
Wed 7th April, 202709/04/2025 | Thu 15th April, 202717/04/2025 | available | Per person from$0* | Enquire » |
Terms and conditions
- Prices quoted valid for sale until 13 August 2025 unless otherwise stated or sold out prior.
- Price is per person and subject to availability. Accommodation (if included) is based on twin share unless otherwise stated.
- Airfare (including internal flights) is not included unless otherwise stated and, if included, is economy class unless otherwise stated.
- Local payments, "trip kittys" or food funds may apply and may be payable direct to the supplier on arrival or to your travel agent prior to your departure. Where applicable, these payments are included in the total price quoted.
- Gratuities are not included unless otherwise stated.
- Additional conditions and travel restrictions may apply. Please enquire for further details.
- Prices shown are fully inclusive of taxes, levies and government charges current at time of publication.
- Additional levies, government charges and other applicable fees may apply and are beyond our control.
- Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply depending on date of travel.
- Payments made by credit card will incur a surcharge.
- Prices shown are for payments made by cash in store or Bpay.
- These prices are a guide to the best price. Prices are correct as at 08 August 2025 and are subject to change without notice, due to matters outside our control, such as adverse currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, taxes and airfare increases. Please enquire for further details.
- We receive payment from third party travel service providers when you use us to book travel and travel-related products and services with them on your behalf.
- Our liability to you is limited in certain situations, and we may charge you a cancellation fee(s) in certain circumstances. See our booking terms and conditions for further details.
- We may provide your personal information to third parties, including travel service providers with whom you make a booking. See our privacy policy for further details.
Important Notice
The above information has been obtained from the relevant suppliers and should be considered an indicative guide only as to the prices that may be available for these products. Flight Centre cannot guarantee that any particular product will still be available at the following prices, or for your exact dates of travel. At the time of making your booking, prices may differ to that price displayed on this website. Please contact a Flight Centre travel consultant to obtain the latest up to date information regarding applicable prices, fees and charges, taxes, availability, any blackout dates (such as school holidays), seasonal surcharges and other terms and conditions which may apply.
Contact an Expert to find out more about this tour and other amazing tours!
Talk to a travel expert and personalise your trip
From quick getaways to dream holidays
We're the biggest travel agency south of the equator with access to destinations right around the world. Anywhere you want to go, we can take you there.
Book Now Pay Later!
Where ever you want to fly, cruise, tour or stay, you can holiday sooner with our Interest Free Holidays.
Real People, Real Experience, Real Easy
Our Travel Experts love travel as much as you do. Book with us, knowing you're getting the best advice from the best in the business.