Tour Itinerary
NELSON - GREYMOUTH
BREWERY TOUR, WHITEBAIT FRITTERS, 'COASTER' HOSPITALITY
After leaving Nelson, we journey over the Hope Saddle and through the picturesque Buller Gorge to New Zealand's 'Wild West Coast'. This is one of the more remote, rugged and most sparsely populated areas of the country. Today you will become aware of the amazing scenery and warm welcome that the West Coast is famous for. First stop on the coast is Cape Foulwind, named so by Captain Cook after his ship was blown off course here as he explored New Zealand's waters. The cape is home to a New Zealand Fur Seal breeding colony which you will have the chance to view. Travelling south down the 'Coast Road', one of the most spectacular coastal drives in the world and on through Paparoa National Park, acoastal forest with limestone cliffs, canyons, caves and home to the famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks. We stop off here to view these amazing rock formations which are especially dramatic when the sea is in full swing. Jump back onboard and enjoy coastal views all the way to Greymouth, our overnight stop. Tonight in Greymouth we recommend you take part in a tour of the (very kiwi) Monteiths Brewery including beer tasting and dinner at a local pub (hotel). It's a great chance to meet some of the interesting locals and fellow travellers. Approximate arrival time in Greymouth is 5.00pm.
Hop off the bus today and stay at: Punakaiki
GREYMOUTH - FRANZ JOSEF
GLACIER HIKING, GOLD, UNTOUCHED WILDERNESS
This morning we travel further down the West Coast before stopping in the township of Hokitika, famous for its often crazy local cuisine and Pounamu (Greenstone). Traces of the 'gold rush' times of the that brought thousands upon thousands of wannabe miners and gold panners to the area in the mid 1800s are still evident in the historic town of Ross, we'll even give you a chance to try some panning yourself and find some of your very own New Zealand gold. Heading further south we enter Westland National Park, an area containing numerous scenic lakes, dense forests, many of the Southern Alps highest peaks and two amazingly accessible glaciers. Time for more adventure! We arrive into the alpine village of Franz Josef in time for those who want to partake in a half day glacier hike. If you wish to aim higher, take a heli-hike that will deliver you to the top of the glacier within the midst of the Southern Alps. If you want a bit more of a challenge, allow an extra day and go for the full day glacier hike - a truly once in a lifetime experience because there are not too many opportunities in the world to do something like this. Those not doing a hike today can be taken to the glacier lookout before being dropped at accommodation. If glaciers aren't your thing, another option here is to go kayaking on the scenic Lake Mapourika, surrounded by stunning mountain peaks. Tonight, relax the night away in the Glacier Hot Pools.
Approximate arrival time into Franz Josef in winter is 12.00pm and summer is 1.00pm.
Hop off the bus today and stay at: Hokitika
FRANZ JOSEF - WANAKA
WATERFALLS, MIRROR LAKE, MOUNTAINS
First up this morning we will pass through Fox Glacier, another small village nestled next to a huge and dramatic glacier. Fox Glacier is also the home of one of New Zealand's most picturesque spots; Lake Matheson. Often referred to as the 'Mirror Lake', it is famous for its reflections of the Southern Alps which dominate the skyline - perfect for those picture postcard photos. As we head inland through Haast and further away from the west coast the scenery changes from dense forest to boulder-filled river beds, cliff faces and incredibly powerful waterfalls. Make sure you snap a photo of the Gates of Haast - a truly amazing valley littered with huge boulders. After this the scenery will take another change and we head into the vast plateaus and many lakes of the Central Otago region. Make sure you have your cameras ready as we pass Lake Hawea and shortly after Lake Wanaka. At the head of the lake is the town of Wanaka. This is where we stop for the night - but not before we've taken you to Puzzling World - an amazing mind bending experience that will push your limits and one that you're sure to love.
Hop off the bus today and stay at: Fox Glacier, Makarora
WANAKA - QUEENSTOWN
UNLIMITED ADVENTURE, GREAT NIGHTLIFE, PANORAMIC VIEWS
This morning we head out of town and get you set for a huge day of adventure and exhilaration. Firstly we drop into the birthplace of Bungy jumping, the Kawarau Bridge. The bridge, which is 42 metres above the Kawarau River, is the site of the world's first commercial bungy jump. We dare you to jump - something you will never forget! From here we make our way past Lake Hayes and into Arrowtown. Arrowtown has an amazingly rich history and as such we'll give you the time to explore the quaint shops, the Chinese settler's village and historic buildings in town. In autumn the colours are amazing. From Arrowtown we'll head onto Arthur's Point; which is situated on a bend in the Shotover River. This is also the home of the world renowned Shotover Jet, and also the launch point for whitewater rafting. Be sure to get out onto the river if you've not yet had enough excitement in your day! We head into Queenstown early in the afternoon where there are endless activity options, from mild to wild. We have allowed two nights in Queenstown (but many people prefer to stay longer) to soak it all up.
Approximate arrival time in Queenstown is 1.30pm.
