BUDGET TOUR: Embark on a 7-day road trip through New Zealand's South Island, taking in its breathtaking landscapes. Relax at Lake Tekapo, exploring bike trails and unwinding in hot springs under the Dark Sky Reserve. In Queenstown, we can enjoy thrilling activities and take a day trip to Milford Sound. Witness the Franz Josef glacier and opt to hike or book a scenic flight, before ending back in Christchurch. Staying in dorm rooms & hostels, recommended for travellers aged 18-39.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
Christchurch - Tekapo. You will be picked up in Christchurch at 09:00 (see the Trip Notes for details). We commence our journey from Christchurch to the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, one of New Zealand's most picturesque destinations. We can explore the local bike trails and then relax in the lakeside hot springs while stargazing in the world’s largest Dark Sky Reserve.
Please Note: This tour offers a variety of optional excursions throughout the tour that can be booked and paid for locally. We will give examples of some of the optional activities available on tour, your guide can assist you with any other available options. Sightseeing and activities are generally not included on tour, this gives you the flexibility to shape your own adventure!
Overnight: Tekapo
Tekapo to Queenstown
Tekapo - Queenstown. This morning, after breakfast, you have the opportunity to partake in activities and hikes that we may not have been able to enjoy the previous day. Our journey will continue, taking us from Tekapo to Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital. Once you’re settled in, it’s time to explore! Queenstown is the ideal destination to check off several items from your bucket list, the activities available to be booked and paid locally include skydiving, bungee jumping, canyoning, and zip-lining.
Overnight: Queenstown | Breakfast
Milford Sound
Queenstown - Milford Sound - Queenstown. After breakfast, we will journey from Queenstown to UNESCO-listed Milford Sound, one of the greatest wildernesses in the Southern Hemisphere. The scenery here is punctuated with lofty mountains and deep glacial valleys. We reach Milford Sound, described by Rudyard Kipling as the 'Eighth Wonder of the World', where you can admire colossal waterfalls, ancient forests, stunning mountain landscapes, and playful dolphins. You can book an optional cruise of the Milford Sound Fjord or you can relax with a beer, join a lively gathering, or enjoy New Zealand's famous Fergburger. We return to Queenstown for the evening.
Overnight: Queenstown | Breakfast
Queenstown at leisure
Today you have the opportunity to experience thrilling activities in Queenstown. Whether it’s bungee jumping, canyon swings, or horseback riding, there’s something to suit every level of adventure. You can enjoy one of New Zealand’s most picturesque skydives, explore trails on a bike ride, try your hand at luging, or take a jet boat ride up the canyon.
Overnight: Queenstown | Breakfast
Queenstown to Franz Josef
Queenstown - Wanaka - Franz Josef. Leaving Queenstown this morning, after breakfast, we will make our way from Queenstown to Franz Josef, stopping for a break in the picturesque town of Wanaka.
We will then embark on an amazing journey along the rugged coastline, passing ancient rainforests, icy glaciers, and crashing waterfalls as we traverse Haast Pass. Our adventure will conclude at Franz Josef, the gateway to glacier country.
Please note: There is one included group dinner on this tour. This will take place at a favourite spot of your guide, and the day on which it takes place varies by tour and guide!
Overnight: Franz Josef | Breakfast, Dinner
Franz Josef
Prepare your crampons because Franz Josef might just be the most breathtaking destination you'll ever encounter. Discover the spectacular ice formations sculpted over millennia, and choose between hiking, an optional scenic helicopter tour, or both, for an unforgettable experience. Prefer activities at a lower altitude? You can enjoy quad biking, kayaking, or unwinding in the glacier hot pools, then wind down with a refreshing beverage to fully appreciate the scenery.
Overnight: Franz Josef | Breakfast
Franz Josef to Christchurch
Franz Josef - Christchurch. After breakfast this morning, we will depart from Franz Josef and make our way to Christchurch. Along the way, we’ll enjoy a quick stop in the beautiful town of Hokitika before embarking on a spectacular journey through Arthur’s Pass, surrounded by the stunning snow-capped Southern Alps.
Our adventure around New Zealand’s South Island will then end as we return to Christchurch. You will be dropped off at our pick-up point at approximately 15:00 - 16:00 (more information in Trip Notes).
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 1 traveller. 'Dorm' prices shown are based on mixed dormitory rooms (PLEASE CONTACT US FOR DORM PRICES)! There is also a 'Twin/Double' room upgrade and a 'Single' room upgrade for solo travellers. 'Twin/Double' room upgrades are based on two people travelling together and are subject to availability.
Hotels
The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.
Lakes Edge Holiday Park, Tekapo
Surrounded by trees and overlooking Lake Tekapo, this informal resort is a minute’s walk from the lakeshore, a 500-metre walk from the thermal pools at Tekapo Springs, and 1 km from State Highway 8. The simple dormitories offer Wi-Fi access and shared bathrooms, with some featuring verandas. Bed linen is provided. Amenities include a communal kitchen, a lounge with a TV, as well as BBQ and picnic areas. Bike hire and guest laundry facilities are available. Various activities such as cycling, fishing, and hiking can be enjoyed on-site or in the surrounding area. Dining options, including Blue Lake Eatery & Bar, McKenzies Café Bar & Grill, TLV Restaurant & Bar, and Dark Sky Diner, are all within 1.2 km.
Haka House Queenstown Lakefront, Queenstown
Haka Lodge Queenstown Lakefront provides comfortable and affordable mixed dorm accommodation, with modern bunks, privacy curtains, individual reading lights, and shared bathrooms. Communal spaces include a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious lounge and a cozy outdoor deck offering stunning views of Lake Wakatipu. Situated right on the lakefront, the hostel is just a short walk from Queenstown's bustling town centre, with its shops, bars, and restaurants. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi and laundry facilities. The location provides direct access to the Queenstown Gardens and a short ride to adventure sports hotspots, perfect for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the outdoor adventure capital of New Zealand.
Rainforest Retreat, Franz Josef
Rainforest Retreat offers mixed dorm accommodation in a unique, forested setting. The dorms are cozy and well-maintained, with shared bathroom facilities and personal lockers. Guests can take advantage of communal areas, including a fully equipped kitchen, a lounge with a fireplace, and outdoor hot tubs nestled among the rainforest. Located in the heart of Franz Josef, the retreat is just a short walk from the village’s cafes and shops, and a short drive to the famous Franz Josef Glacier. Free Wi-Fi, a BBQ area, and a tour desk help make stays convenient and enjoyable. Surrounded by nature, guests can easily explore local walking trails, soak in the nearby hot pools, or enjoy glacier hikes and helicopter tours to experience the area's stunning scenery.
At a Glance
