Itinerary

Day 1 – ARRIVE CHRISTCHURCH

On arrival at Christchurch airport, collect your Budget Rent A car along with your “Kruse” navigation system. Make your way to your overnight accommodation.

Day 2- CHRISTCHURCH I DUNEDIN

Today, travel through the Canterbury Plains and on to Dunedin. The city's attractions include museums, gardens and galleries, two great baronial houses and the nearby Otago Peninsula with its Albatross and Penguin colonies.

Day 3 - DUNEDIN

This morning is at leisure. This afternoon we suggest a tour of the Otago Peninsula including Larnach Castle and the renowned Royal Albatross Colony (seasonal) – entrance fees not included.

Day 4 - DUNEDIN I TE ANAU

After leaving Dunedin, pass through Mosgiel and over the Taieri Plains before passing through Gore alongside the banks of New Zealand’s second longest river – The Clutha.

After travelling alongside the Hokonui Hills, where moonshine was distilled during the prohibition years, pass through the farming towns of Lumsden and Mossburn and the wide, flat farmland. Pass over “the key” and into Te Anau. Afternoon at leisure. This evening perhaps take a trip across the lake to the Te Anau Caves 9at won cost).

Day 5 - MILFORD SOUND DAY EXCURSION - QUEENSTOWN

Drive through the magnificent beech forests of the Eglington and Hollyford Valleys, through the Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound for a launch excursion on the fiord which departs at 11.00am (please report 20 minutes prior to departure. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery including the awe- inspiring Mitre Peak with a full commentary on the natural history of the fiord. A picnic lunch is included. Upon conclusion of the cruise, return to Te Anau and onwards to Queenstown.

Day 6 - QUEENSTOWN

Today is free to enjoy the many leisure pursuits.

Day 7 - QUEENSTOWN I FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

This morning depart the hotel for a full day journey from Queenstown to Franz Josef. During the trip, you will traverse Kawarau Gorge, Hawera River and Lake Wanaka. Travel through Haast and continue on to Franz Josef.

Day 8 - FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER

Today is at leisure. Available activities include walks, tramps, scenic flights and guided tours (own expense).

There are good walkways up to the glaciers. Near Fox Glacier, a visit of the "mirror lake" Matheson is recommended.

Day 9 - FRANZ JOSEF I GREYMOUTH I CHRISTCHURCH

Today, drive to Christchurch via Greymouth before crossing the Southern Alps which divide the East and West coasts of the South Island. Continue across the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch.

Day 10 - DEPART CHRISTCHURCH

Today is at leisure before returning your rental to Christchurch airport and departing.