New Zealand
New Zealand Journey: Trains, Trails & Turquoise Lakes
October 17-24, 2027
Trip Price: $4599
Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime journey through New Zealand’s South Island, where dramatic coastlines meet alpine peaks and wildlife reigns supreme. This adventure is packed with epic train rides, glacier-fed lakes, whale watching, wine tasting, and jet boating through Lord of the Rings landscapes.
Start with a scenic rail ride from Blenheim to Kaikoura, where whales, dolphins, and albatross await. Soak in the views from a waterfront hotel before heading to Christchurch and the turquoise shores of Lake Tekapo. Stand in awe beneath Aoraki Mount Cook, the country’s highest peak, and sleep under some of the darkest skies in the world.
Then it’s off to Queenstown for winery lunches, bungee bridge views, and a jet boat + hiking adventure in Fiordland. Cruise beneath the cliffs of magical Milford Sound before wrapping up in the adventure capital of New Zealand.
From start to finish, this itinerary is pure South Island magic—with all the planning taken care of. Just pack your sense of wonder (and a good pair of walking shoes).
Your package includes 8 days on New Zealand’s South Island. If you’d like to extend your trip, we can help.
Transfers & Flight Details
To receive the included airport transfers, flight details must be submitted no later than 30 days before trip departure. After that time, guests will be responsible for arranging their own airport transportation.
Included airport transfers are available only on the official trip arrival and departure dates. If you plan to arrive early or extend your stay, we’re happy to help arrange additional transfers at an extra cost.
Because transfers are scheduled specifically around your submitted flight details, any last-minute flight changes may require a new transfer booking at the guest’s expense.
Please speak to a Legit Trips travel guide before booking your flights for this trip- email us.
It also includes comprehensive travel planning, coordinated activities, and an on-site trip leader available 24/7.
The trip starts in Blenheim and ends in Queenstown.
Itinerary subject to change based on the discretion of trip leader, or tour operator, due to weather or other extenuating circumstances.
Group size: This trip has a maximum group size of 13 guests.
October 17-24, 2027
Deposit: $750
TRIP TOTAL: $4599
All trips are priced as double occupancy. When available, solo supplements may be offered. If you are traveling solo, it doesn’t mean you need to pay for a solo supplement, we’re happy to pair you with a roommate whenever possible.
*Your balance is the total, less deposit, and we have flexible payment options available- to pay monthly or in a few equal installments
- 7 nights accomodation
- Airport transfers from Blenheim airport and to Queenstown airport
- 7 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 2 Dinners
- Full Day Milford Coach, Cruise & Walk
- Half Day Kepler Track, Jet Boat and Hike
- The Great Journeys of New Zealand- Coastal Pacific Train – Kaikoura to Christchurch
- Whale Watch Kaikoura Cruise
- The Great Journeys of New Zealand- Coastal Pacific Train – Blenheim to Kaikoura
- Modern, air-conditioned transportation with an English-speaking driver
- Package includes comprehensive travel planning, coordinated optional activities, personalized service, and an on-site Legit Trips tour leader available 24/7.
Airport transfers on official trip arrival and departure dates
Itinerary subject to change based on discretion of trip leader or tour operator, due to weather or other extenuating circumstances.
More than 120 days prior to the trip: Deposits are non-refundable but can be transferred to another person or Legit Trip (limited to one transfer, subject to a $100 rebooking fee). Any additional payments made beyond the deposit are fully refundable.
At 120 days or less prior to the trip: All payments are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable. This includes the deposit and any additional payments made toward the trip; no exceptions or refunds of any kind will be issued.
Please be sure to read the complete booking terms and conditions at checkout. https://legittrips.com/booking-terms/
We recommend a travel insurance plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected.
For more information on our recommended providers click here.
Unique trip highlights
Scenic Trains
Ride the iconic Coastal Pacific train not once, but twice—hugging the rugged Pacific coastline with snowcapped mountains on the other side. It’s one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.
Whales
Experience a 3.5-hour marine safari where you’re likely to see giant sperm whales, dusky dolphins, fur seals, and rare seabirds—Kaikoura is one of the only places in the world where whales are year-round residents.
Fjordland
Cruise the cinematic Waiau River by jet boat, then hike a section of the famed Kepler Track through lush beech forests and swing bridges—true Middle Earth vibes.
Landscapes
From riding coastal trains and spotting whales in Kaikoura to stargazing beneath Aoraki/Mt. Cook, jet boating through Fiordland, and cruising the epic Milford Sound—this trip captures the full range of South Island’s natural beauty.
Day 1
BLENHEIM
Upon arrival, we’ll head to Blenheim Station and board the Coastal Pacific train for a stunning journey between the Kaikoura mountains and the Pacific coastline.
O/N at Sudima Kaikoura
Day 2
KAIKOURA
Morning whale watching cruise in Kaikoura, to encounter Giant Sperm Whales, dolphins, seals, rare seabirds, and seasonal visitors like Humpbacks, Orcas, and Blue Whales—all in one unforgettable marine adventure. Then back on board the Coastal Pacific train to Christchurch.
O/N at Distinction Christchurch Hotel
Day 3
LAKE TEKAPO
Today, we depart Christchurch and travel to Mt. Cook, via Geraldine and Lake Tekapo. We’ll have free time for lunch and exploring in Lake Tekapo. Buffet dinner in Mt Cook.
Day 4
QUEENSTOWN
Leave Aoraki Mount Cook and follow scenic rivers and lakes through the Mackenzie Country, over Lindis Pass, and past Cromwell before arriving in Queenstown on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
O/N in Millennium Queenstown
Day 5
QUEENSTOWN
Explore Queenstown’s highlights, from the lively Mall and historic landmarks to charming Arrowtown. Then visit the iconic Kawarau Bridge Bungy site and enjoy a winery lunch with a splash tasting at Kinross.
O/N in Millennium Queenstown
Day 6
QUEENSTOWN
Transfer to Te Anau for a half-day adventure featuring jet boating on the Waiau River and an easy guided hike along the Kepler Track, with a scenic picnic lunch in Fiordland National Park.
Day 7
MILFORD SOUND
Enjoy a full-day guided adventure from Te Anau to Milford Sound, with scenic stops and nature walks along the iconic Milford Road. Then cruise the fjord on a small boat to spot waterfalls, wildlife, and rainforest views—all tailored to the day’s weather and seasonal highlights.
O/N in Millennium Queenstown
Day 8
QUEENSTOWN
Departure Day. Say goodbye to your new friends and the beautiful country of New Zealand and board your flight back home.
Safe travels!
ADD ON DAYS
The trip ends in Queenstown so it’s easy to extend your trip and stay extra nights if you want to explore more. Or if you want to fly up to the North Island and see a few more cities, we’re happy to help with any extension, just email Lundy@LegitTrips.com
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