Total South Island Itinerary

Board a ferry from the North Island to South Island of New Zealand, cruising through the Marlborough Sounds. Arrive in quirky Nelson and spend free time visiting the area's famous wineries, breweries and art galleries. The nearby Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs and picturesque, coastal track. Perhaps see it from the water on a guided sea kayak trip.

Discover the regions lakes on the way to Punakaiki, nestled in the foothills of the Paparoa National Park. Its magnificent ocean-front location, with spectacular views of the wild West Coast beaches, makes this an enjoyable stop. Enjoy short walks along the coast and see why the Pancake Rocks earned their name.

Take in the incredible scenery along the coast on the way to Fox Glacier. The guided glacier trek begins on a path through ferns and regenerating, temperate rainforest. Stepping onto the ice, strap on crampons and pass through crevasses and ridges for spectacular views of the icefalls and lower glacier.

Have an adrenaline rush on a visit to Queenstown - a thrillseekers' mecca. Then change pace with a cruise on Lake Wakatipu, heading to the Colonel's Homestead for a night of high country hospitality.

Farewell Queenstown and take in the beauty of Fiordland National Park en route to magnificent Milford Sound. Soak up the spectacular surrounds on a cruise and perhaps spot fur seals, bottlenose dolphins and even a rare penguin. Spend the night in Te Anau.

Travel through incredible 'Lord of the Rings' scenery to arrive at Lake Ohau. Take a stroll around the lake or enjoy an early evening drink while overlooking the sunset silhouette of Mt Cook.

Be prepared for breathtaking views of Mt Cook across the clear, blue waters of Lake Pukaki before heading to Lake Tekapo. For a real treat, take an optional flight over the lakes to see the region from a different angle. Later, make tracks across the Canterbury Plains to finish this adventure in Christchurch.