Southern Scenic Wonders & Wildlife Tour

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Crossing the vast Canterbury Plains as you head South, State Highway 1 crosses many braided rivers that start their life as glacial melt water high in the Southern Alps. New Zealand's longest bridge at Rakaia crosses such an example. The towns of Timaru followed by Oamaru are worth a short detour to the town centre.  The town of Oamaru is most famous for its buildings constructed with the unique locally quarried white stone. One of the most popular things to do here is to see the blue penguins come ashore at dusk. The colony is just out on the point and an information centre dedicated to the penguins will give you a great insight into their lives.

Oamaru's most significant feature is its abundance of whitestone buildings. This unique ‘Oamaru Stone' is quarried nearby, and many of the town's original buildings, including grain and wool stores, were built in an ornate style using the stone. In the old Harbour/Tyne Historic Precinct, many of these buildings still stand, and some are still used for their original purpose. They also now house curious shops, gift stores, restaurants, and a motoring museum. There is a great shopping scene, be sure to make time to stop into the numerous galleries, as well as iconic stores, and visit the wonderful world of Steampunk. Just a little along the harbor front a little blue penguin colony attracts visitors at dusk to watch as they return to their burrows and along the coastline yellow-eyed penguins can often be sighted.

Oamaru's Blue Penguins nest close to town under the cliffs along the Historic Harbour foreshore. The Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony is just beyond the Victorian Heritage Precinct and you are within walking distance of the town centre, close to shops, restaurants and accommodation.
When penguins are on shore and have chosen to nest in the Blue Wing it is possible to see them within a couple of feet of you. At the appropriate times of the year you may see them incubating eggs or guarding the tiny chicks. You can watch the chicks as they wait for their daily meal to return with their parents.
You will be seated 2-3 metres from where the blue penguins arrive and cross into the colony. And be treated to an informative commentary by a trained guide. This Viewing is 1 and a half hours and includes the opportunity to enter the breeding colony on a boardwalk and walk among the blue penguin nesting burrows.

The drive from Oamaru to Dunedin takes you along the Otago Coastline and some of the earliest inhabited places in New Zealand. Just south of Oamaru is Totora Estate and its from here that the modern meat export industry was born. Sheep carcasses were processed here before being sent to England in 1882 by the first freezer ship, the clipper Dunedin.
One of the most intriguing places to explore is Moeraki and the Moeraki Boulders. These unique geological features are easily accessed and well signposted from the main highway. Some of the boulders actually contained dinosaur bones but according to Maori legend they were gourds washed overboard as a waka (canoe) was wrecked on a nearby reef.
Matanaka is a short detour off the main road and here you can take a short walk to see some of the oldest remaining buildings in the South Island.
Arriving into Dunedin you can appreciate the city's Edwardian and Scottish heritage through its fine buildings particularly around the Octagon and city centre and parking your car close by and exploring on foot is highly recommended. A not to be missed building is the railway station, recently listed as one of the worlds top 100 building to see.

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 harbour landscape and wildlife is 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 emphasise the singular beauty of Dunedin and its jewel-like harbour.

The Royal Albatross colony at Taiaroa Head on the Otago Peninsula is the only mainland breeding colony of Royal Albatross in the world. From the centre, it's a short walk to the observatory for the privilege of seeing the greatest of all seabirds. Wander through the McMillan Gallery and learn more of the history and wildlife of the area. The Unique Taiaroa experience offers a comprehensive 90 minutes guided tour of both the Albatross colony and Fort Taiaroa. Enjoy spectacular Albatross viewing from the Richdale Observatory including the introductory "Attenborough" video and albatross breeding cycle information. The Fort Taiaroa guided tour takes you back into New Zealand's colonial past. It covers the Maori and European occupation of the headland with a visit to 'Fort Taiaroa,' underground fortifications beneath the Albatross Colony. Walk through the underground tunnels to the 1886 Armstrong Disappearing Gun that is still in working order. This was established to counter the anticipated threat of invasion from Tsarist Russia.

The drive to Te Anau takes you through classic Southland farmland scenery. Pass through the tranquil river town of Balclutha, the largest town in South Otago, which hosts a range of shops and services. Balclutha is memorable for its arched concrete bridge, under which flows the mighty Clutha River. The river is open for salmon and trout fishing all year round. As you head inland, you will pass through the small rural town of Clinton before reaching Gore, the official home of country music. It's also known for great fly fishing, with the Mataura River and many other productive streams close by. Take time to enjoy the lush farmland scenery as you journey east towards your lakeside destination of Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park and Piopiotahi-Milford Sound.

It is the gateway to Fiordland National Park and a perfect base to visit Piopiotahi-Milford Sound. The Milford Road originates here, and this is arguably one of the most scenic stretches of highway in the country. Te Anau sits on the shores of spectacular Lake Te Anau, which reaches depths of 417 meters. Te Anau Township is the starting point for many walking tracks, including two of New Zealand's Great Walks, the Milford track and the Kepler track. Apart from hiking, you could go kayaking, lake cruising, fishing, or exploring Te Anau Glowworm Caves. You could go for a bike ride alongside the lake towards Lake Manapouri, on a popular Lake to Lake biking route. Along the way, you will pass a bird sanctuary specialising in Takahe, and other native birds. 

Jet boat down the Waiau river, across Lake Manapouri, to the ancient forest of the Fiordland National Park. Enjoy the thrill of jet boating down the majestic trout-filled Waiau River, to the serene Lake Manapouri. Step foot into the Fiordland National Park and go for a short walk while learning about the ancient beech forest and ferns. Your jet boat ride includes a number of stops at the exact locations of the filming the "Fellowship of the Ring" on the Waiau or "Anduin River". The driver will tell you the inside story of the filming the Lord of the Rings on this river. The trip will also include some thrilling 360 degree turns and spins as well as interesting interpretation about the flora and fauna and the local European and Māori history.

Running short of time? This is the perfect way to experience Doubtful Sound. Fly over Lake Manapouri and the South Fiord of Lake Te Anau to the remote wilderness of Doubtful Sound. See stunning waterfalls and unspoilt scenery which will leave you in awe of this dramatic region.
This flight takes you to a remote area of the South Islands' rugged West Coast. Sometimes called the Sound of Silence, there is a cloistered serenity within Doubtful Sound that is a contrast with its near neighbour, Milford Sound. At 421 metres deep Doubtful is the deepest of the fiords and is long and winding with three distinct arms. The distance from Deep Cove to the open sea is around 40.4 kilometres. It is also home to New Zealand's highest waterfall - the Browne Falls at 836m (2,742 ft).

Cruise Milford Sound in luxury on board the Fiordland Jewel. This purpose built luxury boutique catamaran has nine fully heated and air-conditioned cabins with king size beds and ensuite bathrooms. With no more than 20 passengers on the boat, you will have plenty of space to relax and take on the spectacular views. Milford sound is simply like no other place on earth, with impressive peaks that tower hundreds of metres both above and below sea level, cascading waterfalls and pristine rainforests. Seals, dolphins and penguins can be seen from the boat, and rare black coral, lobsters and schools of fish can be viewed in HD from the boats remote operated vehicle.
On day one you will cruise down the south side of the fiord, past Bowen Falls, Sinbad Gully, the world-renowned Mitre Peak, Mt Pembroke, Bridal Veil Falls and Fairy Falls. If weather permits, you will cruise into the mouth of the fiord past Anita Bay, and head into the Tasman Sea for a glimpse of the West Coast, before returning into the sound. You will then cruise up the north side, past Dale Point, the Piopiotahi Marine Reserve, Seal Rock, Stirling Falls, The Lion and the Cascade Range. After a few hours, you will anchor at Harrison’s Cove or Deepwater Cove for the night. Here you will have the opportunity to explore nearby in a kayak, before returning to the boat for drinks and dinner. On day two you will watch the sunrise over breakfast, served at 7-8am, before returning to the terminal.

Journey across expansive tussock lands en route to Queenstown.Pass through Mossburn, renowned as the deer capital of New Zealand, and continue through the picturesque Southland countryside. As the road begins to trace the edge of Lake Wakatipu, marvel at the breathtaking views from the Devil’s Staircase. Finally, approach Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, with the Remarkables mountain range standing majestically in the backdrop.

Queenstown known in Māori as Tāhuna, is home to many adrenaline-inducing activities. Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, this alpine town has very distinct seasons, and most adrenaline-filled activities can be accessed year-round. Queenstown is home to jet boating, bungy jumping, rafting, skydiving, paragliding, and even indoor thrills. If you want that rush - head out on the Shotover Jet, dive off the Nevis Bungy, freefall on the Canyon Swing, or Zip line the Gondola. While arguably the brightest gem in New Zealand’s crown, Queenstown offers far more than an action-packed getaway. If you’re looking for a slightly slower pace, there are plenty of recreational activities, including hiking and biking trails to explore, guided tours, boat cruises, scenic flights, or spa and wellness options to help you get away. Head to the lakefront, eat at one of the al fresco eateries, and soak up the local vibes; catch a ride on the iconic 100-year-old steamship the TSS Earnslaw; or take the Skyline Gondola and enjoy bird's-eye views of the Remarkables mountain ranges and Lake Wakatipu. Pack a picnic and go for a hike, only 20 minutes from Central Queenstown, Coronet Peak opens for summer sightseeing. You can ride the Peak Gondola to the top for panoramic views and hike the trails, or go for a bike ride on many excellent biking trails. In winter, Queenstown becomes a world-class winter resort, with four ski areas and a range of activities, bars, restaurants, and ways to relax and unwind. 

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 ambience 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, New Zealand cheeses, tea, and coffee. 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.

Begin your adventure at Ben Lomond Station, accessed through a private road leading you into a world of breathtaking landscapes. Your morning will be spent exploring the expansive grounds of the station, climbing the ridgeline to witness panoramic views of the Shotover River, Mt Dewar, and Skippers Canyon. With countless scenic stops along the way, your guide will share the rich history and captivating stories of the region, as you traverse grazing lands, native forests, lakes, and rivers, and visit old mining huts and settlements. After crossing several rivers, you'll arrive at Moonlight Lodge where a gourmet picnic lunch awaits, providing the perfect fuel for your afternoon adventures. Continue your exploration of this high country station with options to embark on nature walks through stunning Beech Forest, delve into the gold mining history (including a chance to try gold panning), or simply relax and soak in the serene surroundings before making your way back through the station to your accommodation. On select days, you may have the chance to meet John Foster, the owner of Ben Lomond Station. John will share insights into the area's farming practices, the station's history, and his experiences living in this remote part of New Zealand, offering a truly authentic glimpse into local life.

Enjoy the most memorable experience in Queenstown and surround yourself with a sky of stars and 14 Japanese lanterns as you soak up the warm waters of the Onsen Hot Pools. Nestled high into a cliff-side overlooking the magnificent Shotover River canyon, the experience is all about unwinding and soaking-up Queenstown's spectacular scenery, enjoying the pure waters and the fresh mountain air as your mind and body surrenders to the deep penetrating warmth and gentle massage of the private pools. Water temperature is set according to the day - generally between 37.8C on a hot day, to 39.8C during a snow-storm and in the summer one of the pools is kept cold for those who relish the thought of a cold plunge!

Following Lake Wakatipu had towards Frankton, crossing the iconic Shotover River. Pass Lake Hayes and follow the Kawarau River as it winds through the landscape to reach your destination, Gibbston. Also known as the 'Valley of the Vines' Gibbston is home to popular vineyards, cellar doors and restaurants.

Be a VIP in the vines, as you tour around the wonderful vineyards in the Gibbston Valley led by a well-experienced WSET. Learn about how the wine is created right from the soil type to the aging and bottling of each drop! As you walk around the vines you will be paired with 3 of the amazing wines, before heading inside into the VIP tasting room to sample another 3 of the beautiful wines.

Follow the Kawarau Gorge to Cromwell, famous for its stone fruit orchards and in the right season you can purchase this fresh fruit from the many roadside stalls.
Pass through Cromwell and over Deadman's Point  Bridge which crosses Lake Dunstan. This lake was formed on the Clutha River as a result of the construction of the Clyde Dam. Between Cromwell and the Clyde Dam, the lake passes through the beautiful Cromwell Gorge. Arriving into the small historic gold mining town of Clyde you will notice many of the original buildings that have become iconic to the town.

A small town in Central Otago, Clyde is tucked into a sheltered basin at the foot of a gorge now flooded by a large concrete hydro dam. Born out of the 1860’s gold rush, Clyde is a historic precinct. Many of the original buildings continue to stand and have become iconic to the town. Located in an area renowned first for gold, and then for its stone fruit orchards. Clyde is a popular summer destination due to its hot, dry days. the addition of renowned wineries in the surrounding regions and many cycle trails. We can recommend Monte Christo Winery for an enjoyable drink in the vines, a walk through the townships many boutique stores and an artisan dining experience at Oliver's.
 

The Lake Dunstan Trail is a two-way trail that links the townships of Clyde and Cromwell. The trail offers cyclists and walkers a 58km ride (Grade 1-3) through unique and fascinating landscapes so characteristic of Central Otago as it journeys along Lake Dunstan, the Kawarau River and the mighty Clutha River Mata-au.
The ride has two very different sections Old Cromwell (Smiths Way) to Cornish Point – great Grade 1 riding along Lake Dunstan and the Kawarau River. Visit the Vineyards, cafes and Hotels along the way. Once you pass Cornish Point the trail changes to Grade 2 and Grade 3. This section is highlighted by the stunning engineering associated with the cantilevers. You need to be prepared for climbing switchbacks (Cairnmuir Ladder has 9 of them), steep drop offs, narrow trail spots while riding on loose gravel. You will need to be competent and confident with cycling on these type of trail features and surfaces to enjoy this experience. Coffee Afloat beckons at the base of the Cairnmuir Ladder – allowing for a recharge before those switchbacks.

Leaving Clyde, follow Lake Dunstan towards Cromwell which sits at the head of the Kawarau Gorge and the historic old town on the lake edge is well worth the visit. The buildings are now home to quaint shops and cafes. The old town buildings were relocated from the valley that now sits deep under Lake Dunstan. Continue along Lake Dunstan until you reach the historic and scenic Bendigo Reserve, which was one of Otago's original gold mining settlements. Well marked paths will guide you to the remains of stone cottages and other buildings from this bygone era. 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 Central Otago into the Mackenzie Basin. The towns of Omarama and Twizel are the last stops before you arrive at the turn off to Aoraki Mt Cook. In Mt Cook Village a myriad of activities are available scenic ski plane or helicopter flights with glacier landings to kayaking on a glacial lake and a host of walks to suit all abilities. At The Hermitage Hotel the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre is a must see.

At 3754m Aoraki-Mt Cook is Aotearoa-New Zealand's highest mountain, located deep in the heart of the Southern Alps. As well as its impressive beauty, Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park is also home to a huge range of awe-inspiring sights and activities. Take to the air with Mt Cook Ski Planes for a scenic flight that includes a glacier landing. At around 27 kilometres long the Tasman Glacier is New Zealand's longest and a Glacier Explorers tour allows you to see its unique features up close.
There are many short hikes in and around the park and these are well signposted around the village. Those with an interest in the night sky should take a Big Sky Stargazing tour with the Hermitage Hotel. The region is considered to have one of the clearest night skies in the world and is one of the few gold-rated dark sky reserves worldwide.
Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre for insight into this region's mountain climbing history. You'll also learn of Sir Ed's incredible achievements and his dedication to helping others around the world.

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.

Mt Cook is far from the city lights and therefore has some of the darkest skies in New Zealand, perfect for viewing the night sky! Their fully trained guides are delighted to show you the beautiful southern night sky using the naked eye, state-of-the-art astronomy telescopes, and binoculars at the outdoor viewing platform. If the weather is not favorable then there will be an indoor alternative featuring New Zealand’s first full dome digital Planetarium, high-definition video images on a suspended 9m wide x 4.5m high full dome. Unleash your imagination as you discover the night sky including the Southern Cross, seasonal ecliptic objects, planets, star clusters, moons, distant galaxies, and even our very own galaxy, the spectacular Milky Way!

Leaving Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, travel a short distance before stopping at the visitor centre on the southern shores of Lake Pukaki. Learn about the formation of the region and take in the spectacular views of Mount Cook. Lake Tekapo also displays the same reflective qualities of Lake Pukaki, making the waters a bright turquoise. You’ll go through the small town of Tekapo, home to some of the most photographed subjects in the country, the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Collie Dog statue. It's a great place to take a scenic flight, enjoy a guided horse trek, a boat trip on the pristine lake or just marvel at the magnificent views. From here you travel through Burkes Pass and into the rich farming valley that surrounds Geraldine. Continue on across the vast Canterbury Plains to Christchurch.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the newest city on the planet while exploring its emerging foodie scene. Learn about the lives of early Māori and their contemporary lifestyle. Uncover hidden gems and hear stories of how Ōtautahi Christchurch envisions the future. Enjoy visits to beloved modern New Zealand restaurants, where you can sample seasonal shared plates made from local produce. Indulge in new favorite dishes, savoring a variety of local food and beverages, each with its own unique story that highlights the region's offerings.

It's time to return your rental car and let the South Island journey come to an end. If time allows spend the day exploring more of Christchurch, we'd suggest a leisurely drive up the Port Hills for some great sites and then over to the harbour of Lyttleton, before circling through the tunnel and back to the airport to continue your journey home. 

Bid farewell to New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures. In Maori, it is said mā te wā, which is not goodbye, it is see you soon!