Wilderness Escape
Programme Overview
Duration: 8 days
Exploring the southern part of New Zealand, this itinerary is ideal for those seeking remote landscapes. Stewart Island is the birding capital of New Zealand, home of the kiwi and only a short distance south of the South Island.
Highlights: Christchurch, Dunedin, Invercargill, Stewart Island, Queenstown and Milford Sound.
Arrive Christchurch - Dunedin
Upon arrival at Christchurch airport collect your rental car to travel south to Timaru, a location known for its extensive Edwardian and Victorian architecture, before continuing on to Dunedin.
First settled by the Scottish, Dunedin is renowned as the “Edinburgh of the South”. Relax and settle into your lodgings for the night – the historic hotel Corstorphine House.
Overnight: Corstorphine House
Dunedin
Today is a close encounter with nature with unrivalled viewing of penguins, fur seals and sea lions on your full day guided tour. Travel past lush pastures, small bays and inlets, rugged hills and white sandy beaches. Witness the rarest penguin in the world waddle up the beach after a day feeding at sea, bedlam in a fur seal breeding colony and majestic albatross above the headland.
Overnight: Corstorphine House
Meal Plan: B
Dunedin - Invercargill
Continue your drive south through the surrounding region, famous for the stunning scenery and plethora of wildlife. Stop at Nugget Point to view the local colonies of seals and penguins. Nestled amongst the fertile southern hills is your exclusive private retreat, home for the next two nights.
Overnight: The Lodge at Tikana
Meal Plan: B,D
Stewart Island
A day of adventure and exploration begins with a breathtaking 20 minute scenic flight from Invercargill to forested Stewart Island.
Here you will learn about island life, its history, places of interest and scenery followed by an in-depth walk around Ulva Island Nature Sanctuary. Enjoy close encounters with native birds and hear exquisite bird song.
Overnight: The Lodge at Tikana
Meal Plan: B,D
Invercargill - Queenstown
Your journey continues today as you drive through a series of rural settlements on the Oreti River. After Lumsden the scenery becomes gradually more alpine. Take a break in Kingston, the home of a remarkable vintage steam train. From here the road hugs the incredibly picturesque Lake Wakatipu nearly all the way to Queenstown.
Overnight: Matakauri Lodge
Meal Plan: B,D
Queenstown - Milford Sound
Enjoy the vibrancy of your Queenstown base before being whisked away for an exclusive experience as you fly to Milford Sound by private helicopter. Soar over mountains, age old glaciers and prehistoric rainforests in a habitat seldom frequented by man. Stroll on an uninhabited beach and enjoy lunch at a remote alpine lake. This relaxed and unhurried expedition distills the essence of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes with many unmissable sights.
Overnight: Matakauri Lodge
Meal Plan: B,L,D
Queenstown
Another day of memorable moments awaits! Start the day with an exclusive jet boat experience on the Dart River. From the comfort of your fully equipped vessel discover the spectacular beauty that makes up this unforgettable river. Later, join your expert guide and venture further in to the Mount Aspiring National Park. Enjoy a casual picnic lunch and absorb the beauty of your surroundings.
Overnight: Matakauri Lodge
Meal Plan: B,L,D
Depart Queenstown
Return your vehicle at Queenstown airport and board your onward flight.
Meal Plan: B