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Tour Code: 020-20721

8-Day South Island East & Central Route Mercedes-Benz Tour from Christchurch

Our Price: from
US$1791
￥12172
€1570
C$2543
Rs.170471
(Price per person based on double occupancy) Duration: 8 days Language: English; Mandarin Chinese Group Size: Max 16 people Visit Christchurch (Arts Centre, Avon River, Bridge of Remembrance), Dunedin (Baldwin Street, Dunedin Railway Station, Larnach Castle, Otago Peninsula, Saint Paul's Cathedral, Speight's Brewery, University of Otago), Lake Tekapo Township (Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Tekapo, Tekapo International Dark Sky Reserve), Mount Cook National Park, Queenstown, Wanaka (Lake Wanaka, Lone Tree), Oamaru, Kaikoura (Ohau Point Seal Colony).

Itinerary

Day 1:Christchurch, New Zealand

Hotel: Deluxe: Hotel Elms Christchurch or similar 4 stars hotel
Meals: Meal: Excluded
Upon arriving in Christchurch, your guide will lead you through this beautiful "Garden City." Stroll through the historic Arts Centre, admire the graceful scenery along the Avon River, and pass by the Bridge of Remembrance.
  • Christchurch, New Zealand
    The largest city on the South Island of New Zealand, Christchurch is an urban center in the Canterbury region. Nicknamed the Garden City, Christchurch is known for its Anglican cathedral, arts, museums, and as being a gateway for Antarctic expeditions.
  • Arts Centre
    Housed in enchanting Gothic Revival buildings, the Christchurch Arts Centre is the city's cultural hub. It buzzes with creativity, hosting artist studios, unique shops, theatres, and craft markets.
  • Avon River
  • Bridge of Remembrance
    The Bridge of Remembrance is a WWI memorial arch in Christchurch, where soldiers departed for war. It now stands as a spiritual landmark, symbolizing peace, remembrance, and resilient hope.

Day 2:Christchurch, New Zealand - Oamaru, New Zealand - Dunedin, New Zealand(312 km)

Hotel: Deluxe: Scenic Hotel Southern Cross or similar 4 stars hotel
Meals: Meal: Excluded

After breakfast, we depart for the historic town of Oamaru, known for its preserved Victorian architecture. In the afternoon, we continue to Dunedin for a wildlife eco-tour on the Otago Peninsula, where you can observe penguins and seals in their natural habitat.

  • Oamaru, New Zealand
    Oamaru is the largest and most populous town in the northern Otago region. Located 120 kilometers north of Dunedin, Oamaru is home to important archaeological sites and architectural stone buildings such as St. Patrick's Basilica.
  • Dunedin, New Zealand
    Dunedin is a bustling urban, cultural center in the Otago region in the South Island of New Zealand. It offers a wide variety of attractions for visitors including the theatre, music, museums, sporting events, universities, parks, gardens, architecture, and much more.
  • Otago Peninsula
    The Otago Peninsula together with its 20 km long harbour, is the home of an abundance of magnificent world famous marine wildlife, namely The Royal Albatross, the endangered Yellow Eyed Penguin/Hoiho and the Blue Penguins at Pukekura.You will also find many Seals, as well as The New Zealand Sea Lion.

Day 3:Dunedin, New Zealand - Queenstown, New Zealand(171 km)

Hotel: Deluxe: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront Queenstown or similar 4 stars hotel
Meals: Breakfast: Included - Western-style at the hotel; Lunch: Included - 2-Course Meal at the Speight's Brewery; Dinner: Included - Queenstown Skyline Gondola mountaintop restaurant Western-style Buffet

After breakfast, travel to Dunedin for a city tour. Key stops include St. Paul's Cathedral, the historic University of Otago, the iconic Dunedin Railway Station, and the world's steepest Baldwin Street. Enjoy a special two-course lunch at the historic Speight's Brewery.The afternoon features a visit to Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle, to explore its grand interiors and gardens. Arrive in Queenstown in the evening for a special experience: take the 360-degree Skyline Gondola up to Queenstown's mountaintop restaurant, ranked among the world's top ten romantic dining spots. Overlooking the panoramic night view of the town and Lake Wakatipu, enjoy a sumptuous seafood buffet dinner - a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

  • Dunedin, New Zealand
    Dunedin is a bustling urban, cultural center in the Otago region in the South Island of New Zealand. It offers a wide variety of attractions for visitors including the theatre, music, museums, sporting events, universities, parks, gardens, architecture, and much more.
  • Saint Paul's Cathedral
  • Dunedin Railway Station
    Embodies Dunedin's wealthy inheritance, This building perhaps is New Zealand’s most photographed building. The ornate Flemish Renaissance-style architecture features white Oamaru limestone facings on black basalt rock. The sheer size, grandiose style and rich embellishments of the station earned architect George Troup the nickname of Gingerbread George.
  • Baldwin Street
    Located in Dunedin, New Zealand, Baldwin Street is recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's steepest residential Street. At its maximum incline, the slope of Baldwin Street is 19 degrees or a gradient of 35%.
  • University of Otago
    Founded in 1869, the University of Otago is New Zealand's oldest university. Its Dunedin campus is renowned for its Scottish-style stone buildings and stunning gardens, often ranked among the world's most beautiful campuses, blending academic prestige with photographic charm.
  • Speight's Brewery
    Speight's Brewery is one of New Zealand's oldest breweries, established in Dunedin since 1876. A cultural icon of the South Island, it offers classic brewery tours and authentic Western meals in its beloved pub with a retro-industrial ambiance.
  • Larnach Castle
    The castle is set high above the harbour where William Larnach commissioned the construction of New Zealand’s only castle in 1871. It is also well known for its 14 hectare garden and grounds which has been recognised as a Garden of International Significance.
  • Queenstown, New Zealand
    Located in the South Island of New Zealand along Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is an urban, resort town popularized for its adventure tourism, which includes snowboarding, skiing, mountain biking, and paragliding. The Lord of the Rings film trilogy also features locations from Queenstown and surrounding locations.
  • Skyline Gondola
    You’ll be carried 450 metres above Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu to the top of Bob's Peak, where you’ll enjoy the best views in the region unfolding before your eyes. You get to experience a spectacular 220 degree panorama with breath-taking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Walter and Cecil Peak and, of course, Queenstown.

Day 4:A full day of leisure in Queenstown or Golden Autumn Special Gift (May - Sep): Arrowtown and Glenorchy 1-day tour

Hotel: Deluxe: Copthorne Hotel & Resort Lakefront Queenstown or similar 4 stars hotel
Meals: Breakfast: Included - Western-style at the hotel; Lunch: Excluded; Dinner: Excluded

Today offers a full day of leisure in picturesque Queenstown. Nestled between majestic mountains and a sparkling lake, this town is hailed as one of the world's most beautiful resort destinations - a paradise for both relaxation and adventure.

Tailor your day to your interests:

  • For Film Buffs: Journey to the fairytale-like village of Glenorchy to explore real-life The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit filming locations.

  • For Thrill-Seekers: Get your adrenaline pumping with world-class activities like skydiving, bungy jumping, paragliding, or jet boating.

  • For a Leisurely Pace: Soak in panoramic views from the gondola, take a scenic helicopter flight over snow-capped peaks and glaciers, or enjoy a wine tasting at a local vineyard.

  • For a Spontaneous Day: Simply wander the vibrant streets, listen to buskers, and savor coffee by the lake.

Don't forget to try the legendary Fergburger - a deliciously juicy bite you won't forget.

Golden Autumn Special Gift: May - Sep, Arrowtown (Gold Mining Town) + Glenorchy (Hidden Paradise) 1-day tour. If guests have already arranged paid activities in Queenstown, it will be regarded as voluntary waiver of this day's itinerary.

  • Queenstown, New Zealand
    Located in the South Island of New Zealand along Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is an urban, resort town popularized for its adventure tourism, which includes snowboarding, skiing, mountain biking, and paragliding. The Lord of the Rings film trilogy also features locations from Queenstown and surrounding locations.

Day 5:Queenstown, New Zealand - Arrowtown, New Zealand - Wanaka, New Zealand(74 km)

Hotel: Standard: Oakridge Resort Lake Wanaka or similar
Meals: Breakfast: Included - Western-style at the hotel; Lunch: Excluded; Dinner: Included - Chinese set menu. (For groups of 6 or more: 6 dishes + 1 soup for 6 pax; 7 dishes + 1 soup for 7 pax; 8 dishes + 1 soup for 8 pax or more.)

After breakfast, head to the historic town of Arrowtown. Stroll along the Arrow River and reflect on the hardships of Chinese gold miners-their simple settlements still stand. Buckingham Street, the main street, showcases preserved historic buildings housing shops and cafes. Next, visit Lake Wanaka, New Zealand's fourth-largest lake. See the famous "Lone Tree," an iconic photography subject. In the afternoon, choose to walk or cycle along the lake to enjoy its clear waters and relaxed atmosphere.

  • Arrowtown, New Zealand
    Once a key town in the Central Otago Gold Rush and home to the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement, Arrowtown has a rich, unique history. A popular tourist destination, guests can also explore historic buildings as well as resorts, golf courses, boutiques and restaurants.
  • Arrowtown Chinese Settlement
    During the Otago Gold Rush of the 1860s, a small Chinese community popped up near Arrowtown. Visitors to the area can still see what is left of their huts on the banks of Bush Creek.
  • Wanaka, New Zealand
    Located in the Otago region, Wanaka is a popular resort town that attracts tourists all year round. From cross-country skiing to water skiing, Wanaka offers endless outdoor activities no matter the season, as well as gorgeous views of mountain ranges, lakes, and more.
  • Lake Wanaka
    Located at the heart of Wanaka, Lake Wanaka is situated in a glacier basin and spans an area of 72 square miles. Ideal for adventure tourism, visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming in the summer and skiing in the winter.
    • Lone Tree
      The Lone Tree of Lake Wanaka is an iconic New Zealand sight. A single willow tree stands gracefully in the water, creating a serene and photogenic scene against the mountain backdrop, making it a must-visit landmark.

Day 6:Wanaka, New Zealand - Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand - Lake Tekapo Township, New Zealand(201 km)

Hotel: Deluxe: Tekapo holiday home and enjoy a high-end experience within the Dark Sky Reserve
Meals: Meal: Excluded

After breakfast, travel to Mount Cook National Park. En route, stop at a salmon farm for optional tasting. Explore the park's stunning landscapes, with an optional helicopter flight to the Tasman Glacier (weather permitting). In the afternoon, visit Lake Tekapo. See the Church of the Good Shepherd and enjoy the world-famous starry skies in the Dark Sky Reserve. Overnight at a unique lodge.

  • Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand
    Mount Cook, locally known as Aoraki, is the highest mountain in New Zealand measuring 12,218 feet tall. An UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mount Cook is a beautiful, diverse location like no other. Enjoy exploring peaks, valleys, lakes, forests, and more.
  • Mount Cook Helicopter Tour
    Admire the beauty and scale of New Zealand's largest mountain, Mount Cook, from the sky with a helicopter tour. Locally known as Aoraki, guests learn about the mountain's cultural and historical importance from knowledgeable pilots while admiring the grandeur of the Southern Alps.
    Duration: 20 Minutes to 1 Hour
  • Lake Tekapo Township, New Zealand
    Located near the Mackenzie Basin, the Lake Tekapo Township is a small community surrounded mountain ranges, lakes and natural beauty. It is also home to Mount John University Observatory, the Church of the Good Shepherd, Waitaki Dam, and more.
  • Lake Tekapo
    Lake Tekapo is the second-largest of three roughly parallel lakes running north-south along the northern edge of the Mackenzie Basin in the South Island of New Zealand (the others are Lake Pukaki and Lake Ohau).
  • Church of the Good Shepherd
    The Church of the Good Shepherd is situated on the shores of Lake Tekapo amongst the natural beauty of the lake and the mountains. It was built to the glory of God as a memorial to the pioneers of the Mackenzie Country.
  • Tekapo International Dark Sky Reserve
    The Tekapo International Dark Sky Reserve is one of the world's largest and most renowned dark sky reserves. Renowned for its minimal light pollution and clear skies, it offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe the spectacular Southern Hemisphere stars and Milky Way.

Day 7:Lake Tekapo Township, New Zealand - Christchurch, New Zealand(181 km)

Hotel: Deluxe: Hotel Elms Christchurch or similar 4 stars hotel
Meals: Breakfast: Included - Western-style at the hotel; Lunch: Excluded; Dinner: Excluded
After breakfast, capture the picture-perfect scenery of Lake Tekapo and its dreamy turquoise waters. Afterwards, return to Christchurch.
  • Lake Tekapo Township, New Zealand
    Located near the Mackenzie Basin, the Lake Tekapo Township is a small community surrounded mountain ranges, lakes and natural beauty. It is also home to Mount John University Observatory, the Church of the Good Shepherd, Waitaki Dam, and more.
  • Christchurch, New Zealand
    The largest city on the South Island of New Zealand, Christchurch is an urban center in the Canterbury region. Nicknamed the Garden City, Christchurch is known for its Anglican cathedral, arts, museums, and as being a gateway for Antarctic expeditions.

Day 8:Christchurch - Kaikoura - Christchurch(151 km)

Meals: Breakfast: Included - Western-style at the hotel; Lunch: Excluded; Dinner: Excluded
Depart from Christchurch at 7:30 from a designated meeting point. Drive to Kaikoura and stop at Ohau Point Seal Colony to see seals. Upon arrival, choose between a 3-hour whale watching tour (98% success rate, using sonar technology) or a 2.5-hour fishing trip (targeting sea perch and blue cod, with a chance to check lobster pots). Lunch is at your own expense at a seaside restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the seal colony again for close-up encounters. Return to Christchurch by 15:00 and arrive at the designated drop-off point around 17:30.
  • Kaikoura, New Zealand
    Kaikoura offers activities all year round. By sea, visitors can swim with dolphins, whale watch or enjoy kayaking and surfing. By land, guests can enjoy wining and dining, shopping, bird watching, spas, hiking, and festivals. The possibilities are endless.
  • Ohau Point Seal Colony
    A natural seal colony on the Kaikoura coast, offering close-up views of New Zealand fur seals basking on the rocky shoreline.

Departure & Return

  • Complimentary Christchurch Airport Pickup: Available on your first day from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Flights arriving after 2:00PM cannot guarantee the city tour.
  • Complimentary Christchurch Airport Drop-off: please arrange your flight departing after 20:00PM.

Includes & Excludes

Price Includes

First Entry Tickets to 2-Course Meal at the Speight's Brewery, a wildlife eco-tour on the Otago Peninsula, the Skyline Gondola+buffet, Kaikoura Whale Watching or Fishing, and Larnach Castle.
7 Nights hotel accomodation and hotel breakfasts
Transportation (17-20 seats Mercedes-Benz, The type of vehicle used will base on the number of guests on the day.)
Driver-Guide
Meals explicitly listed

Price Excludes

Guide gratuities (recommended at NZD $6 per person per day). The driver-guide service is limited to 10 hours per day. Overtime is charged at NZD $150 per hour, payable in cash directly to the guide.
Meals, airfare, visa fees, and any personal optional expenses.
Any additional costs incurred due to factors beyond our control (e.g., weather, transportation, hotel availability).
Comprehensive travel insurance (highly recommended)

Additional Notes

Strict No-Smoking Policy: Smoking is strictly prohibited in all hotel rooms and on balconies. Violators will face a minimum fine of NZD $500 imposed by the hotel. Occupants of the room will be held jointly liable for any fine issued. Non-payment will authorize the hotel to submit the claim to the New Zealand Disputes Tribunal for recovery. All resulting fines, legal costs, and any adverse effects on visas or immigration status are the sole responsibility of the individual.
Health Advisory: If you are prone to motion sickness, please prepare motion sickness medication and vomit bags in advance.
Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend that all guests purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover losses from unforeseen circumstances such as trip cancellation, additional transportation, or loss of valuables. Guests who voluntarily forgo insurance will be personally responsible for all risks and associated costs.
Luggage Allowance: Due to the specific requirements of this group tour, each guest is limited to one piece of luggage not exceeding 26 inches in size.