8 Days South NZ Experience

Map View Full Details Reviews

With spectacular scenery and many adventure opportunities, this 8-day South Island adventure starts and finishes in the diverse city of Christchurch. Turquoise lakes, majestic glaciers, dramatic mountain peaks and the picture-perfect towns of Queenstown, Wanaka and Franz Josef are all a part of this epic road trip.

With accommodation and some activities included (see below), our tours are hassle-free, authentic experiences for those short on time.

Includes

Christchurch street art tour
Arthur’s Pass & Castle Hill
Devils Punchbowl hike
Franz Josef free day

Lake Matheson mirror views
Scenic stops to Lake Hawea
Wanaka & Mount Aspiring
Queenstown free day
Milford Sound cruise

Hostel / Hotel Accom
Small Group Adventure
Experience driver guide
Meals included

Trip length: 8 Days
Group size: Max 24
Start: Christchurch
End: Christchurch

Vehicle: Airconditoned Mini Bus
Sleep: Hostels & Homestays
Physical Demand:
Comfortlevel:

Highlights

wswstraveller_1718983933_3395405789589428413_12344089700.jpg

Pictures / Videos

Itinerary

Map

Day 1 – Welcome to Christchurch

Included Accommodation: Hotel Give (or similar)

Welcome to Christchurch - the largest city in the South Island of New Zealand and the start of your Southern Crossing tour. Ōtautahi (Christchurch) is a vibrant city alive with everything from art, exhibitions, history, and hidden gems. Check out the Riverside Markets for a coffee, beverage or bite to eat or stroll through the botanical gardens.

This evening, meet your Kiwi Experience Driver Guide and the rest of your new tour companions during a welcome evening.

Welcome evening

Day 2 – Christchurch to Franz Josef

Included Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Today we travel from coast to coast right over the Southern Alps passing through the Arthur’s Pass National Park, one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand. Arthurs Pass is a landscape of two halves, along the eastern side we’ll venture through riverbeds and beech forest, and on the western side deeply gorged rivers and dense rainforest. Along this road, we will stop off at the Devil’s Punch Bowl and the breath-taking Castle Hill. We arrive to Franz Josef in the afternoon, home to the Franz Josef glacier - a spectacular 5km long glacier. You’ll have two days here to unwind in Rainforest Retreat and visit the Franz Josef glacier.

Walk the Castle Hill track
Devils Punchbowl waterfalls
Enjoy a pizza dinner at Rainforest Retreat

Day 3 – Franz Josef Free Day

Included Accommodation: Rainforest Retreat (or similar)

Incredible Franz Josef sits in the world heritage area, and the combination of alpine scenery and west coast rainforest makes for an epic setting for your free day. Immerse yourself in a unique opportunity today - carving your own Pounamu (Greenstone) jewellery. You’ll learn more about the cultural significance of pounamu as you engage in this authentic cultural experience and depart with your own special piece of Aotearoa New Zealand.

You’ll then get to explore the Franz Josef glacier, an ever-changing landscape of ice. Opt for the Heli-Hike adventure, allowing you to walk on top of the glacier itself. For a free option, walk through the rainforest to a viewing area where the icy wonderland lies just 750m away.

Included:

Greenstone jewellery carving

Free Activities:

Franz Josef Glacier walk

Paid Options:

Glacier Encounter
Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike
Kayak & Walk
Kayak Classic
Neve Discoverer - 20 Minute Scenic Flight
Off-Road Adventure Tour
Skydive Franz Josef
Tasman Experience
Tasman Experience & 13,000ft skydive

Day 4 – Franz Josef to Lake Hawea

Included Accommodation:

Hawea Hotel (or similar until 30 April 2026)
Adventure Hostel Wanaka (or similar from 01 May - 31 October 2026)
The Brownston Wanaka (or similar from 01 November 2026 - 30 April 2027)

From 01 May 2026, the overnight stop at Lake Hawea will change to an overnight stop in Wanaka instead. The bus will bypass Lake Hawea on the way to Wanaka.

We start the day off with a trip to the Franz Josef wildlife centre (included) where you can see the largest kiwi incubation and hatching facility on the South Island. You are guaranteed to see a live kiwi inside the open nocturnal house, as well as Tuatara, a reptile only found in New Zealand. Afterwards we head to Lake Matheson for a refreshing walk around the lake known for its perfect mirror reflection of Aoraki Mt Cook and the Southern Alps. The waters of Lake Matheson are dark brown, so on a calm day they create the ideal reflective surface, and by a happy coincidence, the mountains to the east are perfectly positioned to reflect in the lake. We'll then cruise up the last stretch of Highway 6, stopping at popular scenic spots along the way, and onwards to Lake Hawea. Lake Hawea is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise and a great place to swim, kite surf, kayak, bike, walk or just laze about on the lake’s edge.

Included:

Thunder Creek Falls
Lake Matheson mirror lake
Fox Josef Glacier Lookout

Paid Options:

West Coast Wildlife centre

Day 5 – Lake Hawea to Queenstown

Included Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown (or similar)

From 01 May 2026 due to the change in the overnight stop, your day will begin in Wanaka.

Today we head to Queenstown; known as the adrenaline capital of New Zealand. But before we get to Queenstown, we'll first stop in Wanaka; a resort town set on the southern end of its namesake lake with views of snow capped mountains. It's the gateway to the Southern Alps' Mount Aspiring National Park, a wilderness of glaciers, beech forests and alpine lakes. Make sure to check out #ThatWanakaTree and snap a pic of one of the most photographed trees in the world! Next up we’ll visit the world’s first commercial bungy site – The Kawarau Bridge. Only the bravest travellers will dare to sign up for this iconic bucket list bungy! Once we arrive in Queenstown, we will head to the spectacular waterfront; here, you can grab a bite to eat, perhaps enjoy a drink and enjoy the Queenstown nightline with all the crew!

Included:

#ThatWanakaTree
Kawarau Bridge Bungy Visit
Arrowtown Visit

Day 6 – Queenstown Free Day

Included Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown (or similar)

Queenstown has something for everyone; here, you can seek adrenaline-fueled adventures or enjoy a more leisurely exploration of the natural playground. Each season offers its own unique vibe, and most activities can be accessed all year round. If you’re looking for adrenaline, bungy jumping, jetboating, white water rafting and sky diving are all available. If a more relaxed pace is calling, hire a bike, take a stroll, enjoy a boat cruise, relax at a spa, or enjoy one of the many vineyards in the area.

Paid Options:

NZONE Skydive
Altitude Day Tours
Dart River Adventures
Shotover Jet Boat Ride
AJ Hackett (various options)
Kawarau Bridge AJ Hackett - various options
Canyon Explorer
Kawarau White Water Rafting
Shotover Canyon Swing
Spirit of Queenstown
TSS and Walter Peak dining
Walter Peak Horse Trek and Cruise
Kiwi Crawl

Day 7 – Queenstown to Milford Sound Return

Included Accommodation: Nomads Queenstown (or similar)

A trip to the South Island would only be complete with a trip to Piopiotahi, Milford Sound. As we venture from Queenstown bright and early, tuck into breakfast before we hit the road. Our first stop of the day is in the quaint town of Te Anau before continuing the breathtaking drive towards Milford Sound with scheduled photo stops along the way. Milford Sound is nestled within Fiordland National Park, known for its pristine wildlife, which marvels at any time of year and in any weather; Milford Sound is rich in geological formations, captivating waterfalls and, unsurprisingly, one of the most amazing scenic day trips to do in New Zealand. Enjoy a two-hour (Included) scenic boat cruise through the inky blackwater; keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, fur seals, and an abundance of birdlife; if you’re really lucky, you’ll spot the endangered Fiordland Crested Penguin. After your cruise, we return to Queenstown for the evening.

Day Trip to Milford Sound
2 hour Milford Sound boat cruise

Day 8 – Lake Tekapo to Christchurch

We drive on through the stunning Lindis Pass and into the magnificent Mackenzie Country, home to Lake Tekapo. Here we will visit the charming stone Church of the Good Shepherd, sat next to the breathtakingly blue waters of the lake framed with colourful lupins. Afterwards we head to Christchurch where the tour concludes.

Free Activities:

Church of the Good Shepherd

Included:

Lake Pukaki Visit

Map

What to bring

What to Bring for Your New Zealand Adventure

Luggage

• Suitcase or Backpack: Choose what you’re comfortable with, as long as it’s under 15kg (33lbs) and easy to carry/load yourself.
• Day Pack: Essential for hikes and day trips.

Clothing Essentials

   •   Comfortable Walking Shoes: Broken-in and sturdy; hiking boots optional for tougher trails.
   •   Rain/Waterproof Jacket: Lightweight and essential for unpredictable weather.
   •   Layered Clothing: Include lightweight merino layers for temperature versatility.
   •   Warm Jumper or Hoodie: For non-rainy, cooler days.
   •   Non-Cotton Long Pants: Fast-drying options like hiking pants or leggings.
   •    Jeans: Suitable for casual use.
   •    Scarf or Shawl: Multi-use for sun protection, warmth, or as a blanket.
   •   Flip Flops (Jandals/Thongs): Handy for downtime or beach trips.
   •   Sunglasses & Brimmed Hat: For sun protection.
   •   Swimsuit: Perfect for beaches and hot pools.

Non-Clothing Essentials

   •   Reusable Water Bottle: Eco-friendly and practical for NZ’s drinkable tap water.
   •   Towel: Preferably quick-drying.
   •    Electronics: Phone, camera, chargers, memory cards, and a travel adapter.
   •   Medications: Bring prescriptions and basics; pharmacies are well-stocked locally.
   •   Toiletries: Pack light; most essentials are available in NZ.

Seasonal Essentials

   •   Winter: Wool hat, gloves, and thick socks.
   •   Summer: Lightweight shorts, skirts, or dresses.
   •   Spring & Autumn: Be prepared for all listed items due to variable weather.

Additional Tips

   •   NZ weather is unpredictable—prepare for all seasons in one day.
   •   Shops like The Warehouse and Kmart can cover forgotten items.
   •   Save room for souvenirs and follow this rule: pack half of what you think you need and bring twice the money!

What is included

ACCOMMODATION

Twin-share rooms in comfortable lodges
Mix of hotels, cabins, and scenic stays
Unique locally hosted experiences
Locations close to nature and major highlights

ACTIVITIES

Guided walks and lookout stops
Entry to included attractions
Scenic photo stops along the route
Beach visits, lakes, and nature reserves
Local culture and heritage points of interest

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Opportunities to engage with local communities
Insight into regional history and stories
Cultural highlights included in the itinerary

SCENIC HIGHLIGHTS

Iconic coastlines and beaches
Mountain viewpoints and lookouts
Waterfalls, forests, and national parks
Panoramic road-trip scenery throughout

MEALS

Daily breakfasts where included
Selected lunches and dinners as per itinerary
Opportunities to try local specialties

TRANSPORT

Comfortable, air-conditioned tour vehicle
Experienced professional driver

GROUP EXPERIENCE

Social, friendly small groups
Ideal for solo travellers
Multinational mix of travellers

GUIDE

Knowledgeable local guide throughout the trip
Support, insights, and recommendations

Personal travel insurance is not included but is strongly recommended for all travellers.

Trip Info

Preparing for the trip

Where can I get more information about this trip?

If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have.

What should I pack?

Depending on where in Australia or New Zealand you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.

What immunisations do I need?

For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.

Do I need to take any medical supplies?

It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour will carry an first aid box and our guides are all certified in First Aid.

How much luggage can I take?

We don't have an exact policy when it comes to luggage though we just ask our customers to be mindful that we have limited space. Generally we recommend people to bring a large backpack/suitcase with all their gear and another smaller backpack to keep on the bus for daily items ( phone, water bottle, towel, sunscreen etc ) and to take on walks. If you have a lot of luggage it's best to leave the things you don't need at your hotel/hostel where they will store it for free until your return. If you are unsure, please contact us.

Where can I store my luggage whilst on tour?

During the tour your main luggage will be stored in our trailer. This trailer is always locked however we cannot guarantee the complete safety of your gear from theft or damage. This is why it is so important to purchase a good travel insurance. If you need to store your luggage whilst away on tour, this can be done through your accommodation. Most hostel and hotels will store your luggage safely free of charge.

Will I be able to do any laundry whilst on tour?

For camping tours there will be no time to do laundry. However, for longer cross country tours involving hostel or hotel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to wash your clothes.

Do I need a sleeping bag?

For all camping tours require you to have a sleeping bag. If you don't have one they may be available for hire via the "join tour" button.

How fit do I need to be?

Our tours are made to be fun, informative and active and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking/walking up to 5km each day.

Do I need travel insurance?

Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended. Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.

Can I get online whilst travelling?

For tours incorporating hostel/hotel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to use wireless internet or use of nearby internet cafe. If you have a mobile plan with internet then that should be ok except for more remote regions. This will vary from tour to tour so please contact us directly for more accurate information.

Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?

You can use your mobile while touring in Australia or New Zealand, but coverage may be limited in remote areas. For best connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international roaming plan.

Private tours and families

Is it possible to travel in a private group?

If your looking for a private tour based of one of our trips please contact us directly and we may be able to help. Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip.

Booking the trip

Do I have to book this tour online?

Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.

If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?

Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.

How do I know when a tour is available?

You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.

Can I just do a section of this tour and not the whole trip?

Unfortunately it is not possible to only do a part of the tour. Passengers generally need to stay with the tour from start to finish.However, drop off locations at the end of the tour made me negotiated.

Does the tour price include flights?

No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself. If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!

How far in advance do I need to book my tour?

As a rule of thumb, try to book at least 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible. Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.

If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?

Balance on tours need to be paid at least 30 days prior to departure. Failure to do so could result is the cancellation of your seat with a fee charged. If you need more time to clear your balance then let us know ASAP and arrangements can be made.

Who travels with us

Is this tour for me?

Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of different ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Generally people who travel with us are between 20 and 49, though we also get alot passengers much older onboard - everyone is welcome! On tour we get equally as many males as females and everyone shares an enthusiasm for the out doors, nature, adventure and culture. Our tours are for those wanting to really explore and share the experience with likeminded travellers. Whether we are camping by a billabong in Kakadu National Park or sharing a cabin in Tasmania, our travellers want more than just a site seeing tour. They are chasing a hands on group experience. The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast. There may be some long drives and passengers should expect to help out when setting up camp or cooking food - this is a group adventure. However, there’s always time to chill out, have a cold beer ( or wine! ) and soak up your surroundings. As always, if in doubt then contact us directly with your concerns.

Cost and Fees

What does Paid Locally mean?

Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.

Will I need additional money?

Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. Its handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.

Do I need to tip our guide?

If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip the guide, then that is completely up to you. However, tipping is not customary and is not at all expected.

Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?

Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.

Whilst on tour

Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?

We know our country inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations. Please contact us for recommendations.

Where do I meet the tour?

For pick up times and locations, please check out the "Start/Finish" section directly under the itinerary. Here we list everywhere we can pick up from and their respective times.There is a lot of information here to help you plan your flights and arrival.Please review careful as these can vary from tour to tour. 

Reviews

5.0 29 reviews

Verified from