Explore New Zealand's breathtaking South Island

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New Zealand's South Island is magical; you can be travelling through a beautiful farmland one minute and travelling through its iconic mountains the next. The beauty of the landscape, with rivers, lakes, mountains and fiords is just spectacular.

From the majestic Milford Sound to the mighty West Coast, the South Island is a must visit destination that will simply take your breath away. And there's no better way to explore it, than on an all-inclusive tour with Grand Pacific Tours, the New Zealand coach holiday specialist.

Christchurch

Experience the changing cityscape of Christchurch, one of the world's most unique destinations. The central city is filled with cutting-edge architecture alongside some of the oldest buildings in New Zealand. The Avon River intersects the city, bringing a natural landscape to the urban environment. Ride the historic tram or settle into one of the eclectic cafés and restaurants.

TranzAlpine Rail Journey

Breathtaking scenery awaits when you jump on-board the TranzAlpine, which is regarded as one of the world's great rail journeys. From Christchurch, travel through the patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains, view alpine scenery, river valleys and spectacular gorges as you ascend to Arthur's Pass located in the centre of the Southern Alps.

West Coast

While glaciers around the world are retreating, Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier on New Zealand's West Coast still flow almost to sea level. The temperate climate at this low altitude means these glaciers are among the most convenient to visit in the world. The sheer enormity of both glaciers is very humbling and a highlight of your South Island tour.

Queenstown

Set on the stunning shores of crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is a picture-perfect location.

Board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. Sit back, relax and enjoy a delicious gourmet barbecue dinner featuring a menu of seasonal, fresh and locally sourced food at the Colonel's Homestead. After dinner enjoy a short farm tour then reboard the TSSEarnslaw for a sing along by the piano as you cruise back to Queenstown.

Te Anau

The picturesque township of Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland National Park. The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are a popular optional activity to do in your spare time. Deep inside the caves, you will be taken by small boat into a silent hidden grotto inhabited by glowworms producing an extraordinary glittering display.

Milford Sound

Immerse yourself in nature on a Milford Sound Cruise. Jump on board a spacious vessel and cruise through the spectacular fiord. Marvel at towering rock faces and thundering waterfalls as you sit back and relax, learning about the history of the region from the on-board guide. You'll also experience one of New Zealand's most scenic drives from Te Anau down to Milford Sound. The famous Milford Road is 120km of lakes, valleys and New Zealand locals; the cheeky kea birds.

Dunedin

Dunedin is regarded as the Edinburgh of the South with its Scottish influence and is home to amazing buildings including the Dunedin Railway Station, one of the most photographed buildings in the country. A must-see Dunedin attraction is Larnach Castle which dates back to 1871. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle, learn about its scandalous past before having time to wander through the Garden of International Significance.

Lake Tekapo/Mount Cook

The township of Lake Tekapo faces north across the remarkable turquoise coloured lake to the mountainous drama of the Southern Alps. Lake Tekapo gets its intense milky-turquoise colour from the fine rock-flour (ground by glaciers) which is suspended in the water. A spectacular location for photos. See the Church of the Good Shepherd and the popular Sheep Dog Statue and marvel at the spectacular mountain ranges including Mt Cook, New Zealand's highest peak.

New Zealand's South Island is a truly unique place with captivating landscapes and sensational culture; experience it all on one of Grand Pacific Tours South Island coach holidays.

Travellers can save up to $400 per couple on our 10 Day South Island itineraries.

Visit www.gptnz.com to learn more or call the Reservations Team on 1800 622 768.

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