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Freedom To Wander

Free Spirit Vacations | Tel: 480-926-5547

New Zealand South Island EE Rail Tour

Explore the South Island’s cities and see the stunning beauty of the West Coast. From alpine scenery to rainforests, marvel at the diverse landscapes. Dine on local specialties and enjoy a jet boat ride down the Waiau River. Board the famous TranzAlpine train and travel through tunnels and over viaducts on one of the world’s most scenic train rides.

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NEW ZEALAND SOUTHERN SPECTACULAR | ROUNDTRIP CHRISTCHURCH

Includes the scenic Tranzalpine Rail segment - Trip is not "All Rail"

Christchurch - is the largest city in the South Island and the second-largest city by urban area population in New Zealand. Flat-bottomed punts glide on the Avon River, which meanders through the city centre. On its banks are cycling paths, the green expanse of Hagley Park and Christchurch Botanic Gardens. In 2010 and 2011, earthquakes destroyed many of the historic centre's stone-built buildings.

Dunedin - is a city in New Zealand, at the head of Otago Harbour on the South Island’s southeast coast. It's known for its Scottish and Maori heritage, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, and a large student population. Hiking and cycling trails crisscross the dramatic landscape of the adjoining Otago Peninsula, home to colonies of albatross, sea lions and rare yellow-eyed penguins.

Milford Sound - is a fiord in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island. It’s known for towering Mitre Peak, plus rainforests and waterfalls like Stirling and Bowen falls, which plummet down its sheer sides. The fiord is home to fur seal colonies, penguins and dolphins.

Queenstown - sits on the shores of the South Island’s Lake Wakatipu, set against the dramatic Southern Alps. Renowned for adventure sports, it’s also a base for exploring the region’s vineyards and historic mining towns.

$200 non-refundable deposit due at time of booking

Recommend Travelex Ultimate trip insurance

Airfare Additional - Please call for rates

Additionl Tour Dates may be Available - Please call for dates

Single Supplement Rates - Please call for rates

Price starting at $5,410.00 per person/double occupancy

Day One

Welcome to Christchurch! - (Flights to arrive prior to 4pm). Kick off your New Zealand South Island tour in this city that is rebuilding itself after the devastating 2011 earthquake. There’s plenty to see and your hotel near Cathedral Square in the heart of the city is the perfect jumping off point. Meet your Travel Director and travel mates for drinks before a free evening to get to know Christchurch as you like, perhaps exploring the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino, and Cashel Mall.

Day Two

Begin your day with a sightseeing tour of Christchurch featuring the Canterbury Museum, Christchurch Earthquake Memorial, Bridge of Remembrance, and streets lined with bars, cafes, and riverside markets. Then go from city to country as you make your way to the quaint farming town of Geraldine. Grab a tasty sample at the famous Talbots Forest Cheese, sit down for lunch, and pop into the cute shops before journeying through the Canterbury Plains to the shores of Lake Tekapo. Afterwards, make a scenic stop at the little stone-hewn Church of the Good Shepherd. Next up, you’re in for a treat as you pull into the lakeside home of Angie and Stan Taylor for a Be My Guest experience over afternoon tea, scones, and stories. Enjoy the Taylors’ insights from a lifetime of farming as well as a bit of real New Zealand hospitality as Angie invites you into her kitchen. You’ll get to watch and learn as she prepares the New Zealand specialty dessert, Pavlova before having a taste for yourself. After this sweet visit, you'll arrive in Twizel for the evening. Soak up the vibe of this cute town and popular holiday destination dining on classic New Zealand fare.

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Day Three

A day of epic natural landscapes and cute colonial towns await you on your journey to Scottish inspired Dunedin, travelling along the Waitaki River en route to the quirky town of Oamaru. You'll feel like you’re stepping back into the Victorian era as you stroll the tree-lined streets past white limestone buildings and 19th century architecture. Take a tea break and browse the shops and galleries of traditional crafts before continuing your journey to the city of Dunedin, built as a 'mini Edinburgh' and vibrant university town. you have the rest of the day free to explore more of Dunedin town, or select from some tempting Optional Experiences. You could visit the famous Speight's Brewery, or tour Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle. Later tonight swap stories with the group over dinner in the heart of the city where you’ll be spoilt for choice of fresh seafood or a specialty from the butcher’s block.

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Day Four

Enjoy plenty of stunning scenery as you make your way through farmlands to Te Anau. Travel through sheep farms into forested, rugged mountains into the Fiordland National Park and the South Island's largest lake to Te Anau. A truly memorable thrill awaits you Waiau River to Lake Manapouri savouring its many tranquil spots. Take in the birds and swimming trout as you learn about this unique environment’s history. This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience is not only scenic but supports the Pomona Island Charitable Trust’s conservation efforts to restore the largest inland island in New Zealand to its natural state where native birds can thrive. If you’re still keen to see more, you could learn more about the area on an Optional Experience to the fascinating, glittering glowworm caves before ending a delightful day with dinner at your hotel.

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Day Five

Begin your day travelling through Fiordland National Park past native rainforests, beech forests, alluvial flats, and meadows. Passing Mirror Lakes, catch the reflection of the surrounding mountains shimmering in the water. Wind your way through the Homer Tunnel, where the sheer rocky ranges have been cut through, to the Cleddau Valley. Then get right in the middle of the stunning scenery cruising the tranquil waters of the Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Watch Bowen and Stirling Falls cascade from hanging valleys into the sea and the sheer pinnacle of Mitre Peak rising from the deep waters of the fiord. With photo ops at every turn and maybe a fur seal or two popping up, it’s a gorgeous afternoon on Milford Sound and a must-do experience on your New Zealand South Island tour. On arrival, excitement is sure to be at an all-time high as we arrive in the adventure capital of Queenstown at your picturesque hotel on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

Day Six

Explore Queenstown that you’ve been dreaming of today with plenty of adventure-filled Optional Experiences to choose from. Join a tour to Skippers Canyon, or go for maximum adventure riding the adrenaline pumping Skippers Jet. This evening it’s time to relax and Dive Into Culture on a cruise aboard New Zealand's oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm. You’ll be warmly greeted at the Colonel's Homestead by a gourmet barbecue dinner piled high with ribs and fresh vegetables. Sit back and be entertained by an after-dinner farm show, complete with sheep dogs in action, that will give you a glimpse into high country farm life. After a fun-filled evening at the homestead, board the Earnslaw and head back to Queenstown, maybe taking a spin on their polished wooden dance floor.

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Day Seven

It’s a day of epic scenery into untamed wilderness as you head through Central Otago to the West Coast. Your first stop is the restored gold mining settlement of Arrowtown. As you walk down its tree-lined avenues and have a look at the 19th-century wooden buildings, you’ll feel as if you’re in a movie set of the Old West. You’ll then travel to Cromwell on the shores of Lake Dunstan for a visit to Mrs. Jones' Fruit Stall. Take a break sampling of some of the town's juicy stone fruit including apricots, nectarines and peaches before journeying further into Central Otago where the vivid blue waters and willow-lined shoreline of Lakes Hawea and Wanaka call. Take to an ancient greenstone trail, cross Haast Pass, and bid farewell to the alpine scenery of the Southern Lakes as you meet the rainforests of the West Coast for the first time. Stunning scenes await as you approach your destination of the famous Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere. Perhaps join an optional helicopter flight for unforgettable views of take in its majesty from the ground.

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Day Eight

Awaken to a day filled with natural and man-made beauty. You have time to explore Franz Josef/Waiau, perhaps visiting the West Coast Wildlife Centre to see kiwi birds, before traveling to Hokitika for a lunch break. Then soak in the natural surroundings as you head to Punakaiki to view the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Standing at the water’s edge, you’ll be amazed at how these eroded limestone foundations that began forming 30 million years ago really do look like a stack of pancakes! As you marvel at nature’s creation, listen closely for a 'whoosh' of water - that's a burst of sea spray coming through the blowholes. Take in the sights, sounds, and sea air before making your way to the eco-friendly, Stays With Stories waterfront Scenic Hotel Punakaiki, where you’ll dine on seafood and local specialties and wine as the surf rolls and churns just outside your window.

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Day Nine

It’s your last full day in New Zealand and it’s a big one full of local tastes and sights. Travel to Greymouth’s Pounamu Pathway, for history and culture celebrating local Ma¯ori. Enjoy a pub-style lunch at local institution Monteith's Brewery, proud to operate in Greymouth since 1868 and perhaps try one of their summer ales or a crushed pear cider. Now that you’ve wet your whistle, board the famous TranzAlpine train to Christchurch on one of the world’s most scenic train trips through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, icy rivers, beech forests, gorges, and river valleys. This 223- kilometre journey across the South Island along the Waimakariri River and across the Southern Alps is a grand finale to the landscapes you’ve come to love. Celebrate the highlights of your trip joining your Travel Director and new friends for a Farewell Dinner showcasing food from the Canterbury region.

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Day Ten

It’s been a beautiful time but sadly all good things must come to an end. Your New Zealand South Island tour concludes this morning after breakfast with a fond farewell before your transfer to the Christchurch Airport (flights anytime)

FB=Full Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

Suggested Packing

-Comfortable walking shoes

-Hat and Sunscreen

-Cash and Credit Cards (Only those needed)

-Medicine and spare prescriptions

-Extra glasses and/or contacts

-Book, Word Search and/or Crossword Puzzle

-Binoculars

-Seat Cushions and/or Blanket (If attending a parade or show)

-Ear plugs and sleep mask

-Mini-Sewing Kit

-Toiletries and Tissues

-Chargers for devices (Cell phones, Tablets, etc.)

-Extra Memory Cards (Digital Cameras) or Extra Film

Activity Level 3

This travel experience is perfect for those who want to see everything their destination has to offer. With the ability to navigate hills and uneven ground (1-2 hours with little difficulty), as well as climb into various modes of transportation, you'll be able to explore every corner of your destination without missing a thing. Plus, with some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure, you'll have the perfect harmony of flexibility and exploration.

Optional Experiences

Day 3

Larnach Castle Tour - Your guided tour of the Larnach family home will give you insight into not only the architecture and style of the stately building, but also into William Larnach’s family life and the restoration done by the current owners during the past three decades. Enjoy views from the tower and marvel at the immaculate gardens before your return to Dunedin. Adult: $55.44 US p/p

City to Sea Wildlife Tour - Enjoy a special wildlife experience around Taiaroa Head and out to sea. Enjoy uninterrupted views of the royal albatross nesting colony, the world’s only mainland breeding site for albatross. Below the cliffs you’ll watch as NZ fur seals play, swim and interact around their breeding rookery. A short way out to sea and we may spot rarely seen ocean birds, like other albatross species, cormorants and petrels. Adult: $60.98 US p/p

Speights Brewery - Guided Tour - No visitor to Dunedin should leave without taking the Speight’s Brewery Tour. Since 1876 the brewery has been proudly producing Speight’s legendary ales from the same site in Rattray Street. On the Speight’s Brewery Tour you’ll see, smell, touch and taste the ingredients that go into making Speight’s beers – and of course, get to sample “The Pride of the South” for yourself! Adult: $24.95 US p/p

Bread to Bottle Tour "MTM Experience'' - Visit Dunedin Craft Distillers, the first distillery in Aotearoa New Zealand and one of only a handful worldwide, to produce botanical spirits from surplus bread and bakery products that would otherwise go to landfill. Discover on this Make Travel Matter Experience, how owners, Jenny McDonald and Sue Stockwell do it in a ‘Bread to Bottle Tour’ which takes you through the process used to turn bread into spirits. Adult: $16.63 US p/p

Castle to Cruise Tour - Your guided tour of the Larnach family home will give you insight into not only the architecture and style of the stately building, but also into William Larnach’s family life and the restoration done by the current owners. Then join an invigorating Wildlife Cruise around Taiaroa Head, home to the world's only mainland nesting place of royal albatross. Watch as these huge birds glide in from the ocean and soar high above their hillside nests. Adult: $91.48 US p/p

Day 4

Te Anau Glow Worm Caves - Experience a mysterious underground world with a guided cave tour past the rushing water of an underground stream before drifting in silent darkness beneath the luminous shimmer of hundreds of glowworms. Cruise to the western shores of Lake Te Anau on a purpose-built scenic cruise vessel. At the entry to the caves at Cavern House, view the informative displays and learn about this geological wonder before you join your guide underground. On the tour of the caves, our friendly guides will point out the highlights and share their knowledge of the caves and its history. Deep inside the caves, beyond the roar of the water, you will be taken by small boat into a silent hidden grotto inhabited by hundreds of glowworms, unique to New Zealand. In the subterranean darkness, they produce a glittering display that is nothing short of extraordinary. Adult: $74.84 US p/p

Day 5

Air Milford - Milford Sound Flight Back To Queenstown - A scenic flight from Milford Sound to return back to Queenstown. During the 35 minute flight take in panoramic views of spectacular scenery including glaciers, rivers, lakes and rainforest. Adult: $274.43 US p/p

Day 6

Appellation Central Wine Tours - Boutique Wine Tour - Experience a tasting journey through three of Central Otago’s wine sub-regions; Gibbston, Bannockburn and Cromwell. 10.00 to 3.30pm. Adult: $259.00 US p/p

Pure Glenorchy - Lord Of The Rings Scenic Tour - Visit the stunning locations from The Lord of The Rings. Encounter lsengard, Lothlorien Forest, The Misty Mountains, Ithilien and many more. Experience the absolute beauty of the Dart River Valley and our closest world heritage area. Learn about the remarkable history and unique culture of Glenorchy. Our tour feature’s some of the world’s most spectacular scenery visiting Mt. Aspiring World Heritage Area, Glenorchy, The Dart River Valley and Paradise. Encounter ancient beech forest, braided rivers and glacier carved valleys. Adult: $110.33 US p/p

Queenstown Wine Sampler Tour - Travel in premium Mercedes vehicles visiting four of Central Otago’s finest and boutique cellar doors, including a visit to New Zealand’s famous Gibbston Valley underground wine cave. Look, smell and taste over 18 spectacular cool-climate wines and enjoy an optional scrumptious lunch (additional cost ordered on the day) whilst your charismatic wine guide and knowledgeable cellar staff educate and amuse you with local winemaking facts and stories. The 6 hour Wine Sampler tour departs Queenstown daily at 10 am and returns around 4 pm. Adult: $126.96 US p/p

Kiwi Park - Kiwi Park is a wildlife sanctuary found in the heart of Queenstown. It holds and displays over 20 species of native NZ wildlife in a 5 acre park, all of which are part of nationally managed programmes. Your entry fee supports their conservation work. They offer guaranteed kiwi viewing in our specially constructed nocturnal houses, audio tours, conservation shows and kiwi feedings. Experience conservation in action! Adult: $30.49 US p/p

The Original Jetboat Ride - Get ready for an insane 60 minute Queenstown Jet boat ride thundering across three waterways travelling at speeds of up to 95kph in the fastest and meanest Jet boats in town. Blast across Lake Wakatipu and down the world-famous Kawarau and Shotover Rivers with 45km of unforgettable thrills, 360 degree spins and adrenaline in one of the world’s most stunning locations. Adult: $77.06 US p/p

Skippers Canyon Scenic Tour & Jet Boat - Experience a spectacular guided tour of Skippers Canyon followed by a thrilling jet boat ride through the narrowest canyons on the Shotover River. The tour begins with a guided drive into historic Skippers Canyon with on board commentary from our knowledgeable drivers. You will be escorted into a land rich in gold mining history and stunning scenery via the infamous Skippers Road which was carved out of the vertical rock face by miners over 130yrs ago. Adult: $104.78 US p/p

Day 7

Haast River Safari Jet Boat - Travel on a purpose built fully enclosed river jet boat with front-loading access. Great visibility is ensured, yet you remain warm, dry and comfortable, making this a unique and safe experience suitable for anyone of any age to participate in and enjoy. Adult: $65.97 US p/p

The Helicopter Line - Mountain Scenic Spectacular Flight 40Mins - Discover the gigantic expanse of the Franz Josef and Fox snowfields on this 40-minute scenic flight. Cross the main divide for breathtaking views of Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak. Highlights include a snow landing, Franz Josef, Fox Glaciers and Mt Cook. Adult: $338.18 US p/p

Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.