Regions: Queenstown & Fiordland

Recommended length: 5+ days

Highlights: Nature, Hiking, Adventure, Landscapes

Day 1: Queenstown

Arrive at Queenstown International Airport and spend the morning getting your bearings around this beautiful alpine town. After lunch, enjoy a thrilling jet boat ride on the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers, then watch a cinematic-animated show about the region from 90 million years ago. In the evening join a twilight wine and craft beer tour around the Gibbston region. Spend the next couple of nights at a luxury hotel on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

Day 2: Queenstown

Spend the day with one of Queenstown’s premier tour operators on a guided tour. There are a range of experiences to choose from including New Zealand’s first gin tour, a boutique wine tour, or a Lord of the Rings off-road tour to name a few. In the evening, enjoy Queenstown’s vibrant nightlife or head indoors for a multi-player virtual reality experience.

Day 3: Queenstown - Te Anau

After breakfast, venture to the beautiful region of Fiordland. Part of the the 2.5 hour drive to Te Anau hugs the turquoise shores of Lake Wakatipu, so make sure you allow plenty of time for photo stops. Check-in to a luxury lodge in the heart of Fiordland National Park and spend the afternoon exploring the working farm.

Day 4: Te Anau

Join a leisurely, small group trip to the stunning Milford Sound. Enjoy a boat cruise to view Fiordland’s spectacular waterfalls and keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins. The trip includes short guided walks along the way.

Day 5: Te Anau - Queenstown

Spend the morning exploring the shores of Lake Te Anau, before travelling back to Queenstown.

Alternatively, extend your time in Fiordland and experience guided day walks on some of New Zealand’s most spectacular Great Walks, including the Milford, Kepler and Routeburn Tracks.

Experiences mentioned in this itinerary can be booked through the Explore New Zealand Discount Programme.