1-800-935-2620 Speak to a Tour Expert
Operator
Trafalgar
Days
10
From
USD $4,531
Why Pay Retail? Call us for a quick quote!

Dates & Prices

*Departure Dates in bold denote Guaranteed Departures
Start Date End Date OffersBrochure
Land Price
Our PriceQuote
From
Tuesday,
Sep 23, 2025
To
Thursday,
Oct 02, 2025
Best$5,170Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Oct 14, 2025
To
Thursday,
Oct 23, 2025
Best$5,330Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Oct 28, 2025
To
Thursday,
Nov 06, 2025
Best$4,531Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Nov 11, 2025
To
Thursday,
Nov 20, 2025
Best$5,330Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Nov 18, 2025
To
Thursday,
Nov 27, 2025
Best$4,531Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Nov 25, 2025
To
Thursday,
Dec 04, 2025
Best$5,330Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Dec 02, 2025
To
Thursday,
Dec 11, 2025
Best$5,330Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Dec 09, 2025
To
Thursday,
Dec 18, 2025
Best$4,531Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Dec 16, 2025
To
Thursday,
Dec 25, 2025
Best$5,330Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Dec 23, 2025
To
Thursday,
Jan 01, 2026
Best$4,531Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Jan 13, 2026
To
Thursday,
Jan 22, 2026
Best$4,797Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Jan 27, 2026
To
Thursday,
Feb 05, 2026
Best$4,797Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Feb 03, 2026
To
Thursday,
Feb 12, 2026
Best$4,797Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Feb 10, 2026
To
Thursday,
Feb 19, 2026
Best$4,797Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Feb 17, 2026
To
Thursday,
Feb 26, 2026
Best$4,797Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Feb 24, 2026
To
Thursday,
Mar 05, 2026
Best$4,797Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Mar 03, 2026
To
Thursday,
Mar 12, 2026
Best$4,797Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Mar 17, 2026
To
Thursday,
Mar 26, 2026
Best$4,797Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Mar 24, 2026
To
Thursday,
Apr 02, 2026
Best$4,797Get Lower PriceGet Quote
From
Tuesday,
Mar 31, 2026
To
Thursday,
Apr 09, 2026
Best$4,797Get Lower PriceGet Quote
* Departure Dates in bold denote Guaranteed Departures

All the Tour Operator Offers & More

LOW UNPUBLISHED PRICES ON TRAFALGAR TOURS

Why pay full price? Call us or click above for a quick quote and save money on Trafalgar Tours.

Room Match Solo Traveler Savings

Mention Promo Code: PT5414
Promotion Image

Room Match Solo Traveler Savings

Room Match Solo Traveler Savings

Promotion Details
Are you travelling alone but don't want to pay a supplement? On many trips, you'll have the option to room share with another same-gender solo traveler, on a twin-bed basis. Plus receive our AffordableTours.com 10% extra savings.
Combine with past guest savings.
Must Book By Wed, Dec 31, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Solo travelers have the option to pay the twin share rate and be matched with a same-sex traveler on nearly all itineraries. On many trips, travelers can choose a solo room for a low single supplement, and on some departures, the upgrade is free. Free solo room upgrades are not available on all trips and/or departures, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Discounts (except for Global Tour Rewards) are not applicable to the solo room surcharge portion of the booking. Other conditions may apply.

2026 Price Drop Promise

Mention Promo Code: PT13431
Promotion Image

2026 Price Drop Promise

2026 Price Drop Promise

Promotion Details
Pay in full now and if the price goes down before you travel, you'll be refunded the difference with the Price Drop Promise on your 2026 tour. If the pricing drops, you can request a refund for the difference before the departure date. (Not all tours are applicable, contact your Travel Consultant for full details.)
Combinable with 10% Early Booking Discount.
Must Book By Tue, Sep 02, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Book early and pay in full within 7 days to qualify, and if the tour price drops later, Trafalgar will refund the difference. If full payment isn't made within 7 days, the promotion will be removed. If pricing drops, guests can request a refund of the difference. This must be done before the departure date. This offer is for the land-only portion of the tour. Flights, insurance, pre/post-night accommodations are not applicable. Guaranteed Lowest Price offer ends September 2, 2025. The LPG offer is combinable with the 10% Early Booking Discount that runs through 7/31/2025. Not applicable on Group bookings, Last Minute Deals, Trafalgar river cruises, Brendan FIT. Not all tours qualify for the guarantee. Additional restrictions apply.

You get way more for way less. Really!

  • 4.9 stars on over 2500+ verified Reviews on Trustpilot; A+ BBB accredited rating since 2001
  • Way Less Money - Low price guaranteed
  • Way More Exclusives - All offers by tour operators + exclusive and extra offers
  • Way Better Support - personalized service from dedicated travel consultant

Tour Itinerary

Just like the name suggests, the New Zealand South Island tour showcases this spectacular island in-depth. Find yourself exploring South Island’s cities, gliding across Milford Sound, seeing the beauty of the wild West Coast, topped off with the TranzAlpine train and beyond in 10 incredible days.

  1. Day 1
    Welcome to Christchurch
    Welcome to Christchurch! (Flights to arrive prior to 4pm). Kick off your New Zealand South Island tour in this city that is rebuilding itself after the devastating 2011 earthquake. There’s plenty to see and your hotel near Cathedral Square in the heart of the city is the perfect jumping off point. Meet your Travel Director and travel mates for drinks before a free evening to get to know Christchurch as you like, perhaps exploring the Avon River, Botanic Gardens, Christchurch Casino, and Cashel Mall.Accommodation: Distinction
  2. Day 2
    Through Scenic Wonderland to Twizel
    Begin your day with a sightseeing tour of Christchurch featuring the Canterbury Museum, Christchurch Earthquake Memorial, Bridge of Remembrance, and streets lined with bars, cafes, and riverside markets. Then go from city to country as you make your way to the quaint farming town of Geraldine. Grab a tasty sample at the famous Talbots Forest Cheese, sit down for lunch, and pop into the cute shops before journeying through the Canterbury Plains to the shores of Lake Tekapo. Afterwards, make a scenic stop at the little stone-hewn Church of the Good Shepherd. Next up, you’re in for a treat as you pull into the lakeside home of Angie and Stan Taylor for a Be My Guest experience over afternoon tea. Enjoy the Taylors’ insights from a lifetime of farming as well as a bit of real New Zealand hospitality as Angie invites you into her kitchen. You’ll get to watch and learn as she prepares the New Zealand specialty dessert, Pavlova before having a taste for yourself. After this sweet visit, you'll arrive in Twizel for the evening. Soak up the vibe of this cute town and popular holiday destination dining on classic New Zealand fare.Accommodation: Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  3. Day 3
    Dunedin, City of Scottish Heritage
    A day of epic natural landscapes and cute colonial towns await you on your journey to Scottish inspired Dunedin, travelling along the Waitaki River en route to the quirky town of Oamaru. You'll feel like you’re stepping back into the Victorian era as you stroll the tree-lined streets past white limestone buildings and 19th century architecture. Take a tea break and browse the shops and galleries of traditional crafts before continuing your journey to the city of Dunedin, built as a 'mini Edinburgh' and vibrant university town. You have the rest of the day free to explore more of Dunedin town, or select from some tempting Optional Experiences. You could visit the famous Speight's Brewery, or tour Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle. Later tonight swap stories with the group over dinner in the heart of the city where you’ll be spoilt for choice of fresh seafood or a specialty from the butcher’s block.Accommodation: Scenic Southern Cross
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  4. Day 4
    Te Anau, Gateway to Fiordland
    Enjoy plenty of stunning scenery as you make your way through farmlands to Te Anau. Travel through sheep farms into forested, rugged mountains into the Fiordland National Park and the South Island's largest lake to Te Anau. A truly memorable thrill awaits you next, exploring the islands on a jet boat ride down the Waiau River to Lake Manapouri savouring its many tranquil spots. Take in the birds and swimming trout as you learn about this unique environment’s history. This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience is not only scenic but supports the Pomona Island Charitable Trust’s conservation efforts to restore the largest inland island in New Zealand to its natural state where native birds can thrive. If you’re still keen to see more, you could learn more about the area on an Optional Experience to the fascinating, glittering glowworm caves before ending a delightful day with dinner at your hotel.Accommodation: Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  5. Day 5
    Milford Sound Contrasts With Queenstown
    Begin your day travelling through Fiordland National Park past native rainforests, beech forests, alluvial flats, and meadows. Passing Mirror Lakes, catch the reflection of the surrounding mountains shimmering in the water. Wind your way through the Homer Tunnel, where the sheer rocky ranges have been cut through, to the Cleddau Valley. Then get right in the middle of the stunning scenery cruising the tranquil waters of the Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Watch Bowen and Stirling Falls cascade from hanging valleys into the sea and the sheer pinnacle of Mitre Peak rising from the deep waters of the fiord. With photo ops at every turn and maybe a fur seal or two popping up, it’s a gorgeous afternoon on Milford Sound and a must-do experience on your New Zealand South Island tour. On arrival, excitement is sure to be at an all-time high as we arrive in the adventure capital of Queenstown at your picturesque hotel on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.Accommodation: Millennium
    Meals:   Breakfast
  6. Day 6
    Queenstown, It's All Yours
    Explore Queenstown that you’ve been dreaming of today with plenty of adventure-filled Optional Experiences to choose from. Join a tour to Skippers Canyon, or go for maximum adventure riding the adrenaline pumping Skippers Jet. This evening it’s time to relax and Dive Into Culture on a cruise aboard New Zealand's oldest steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm. You’ll be warmly greeted at the Colonel's Homestead by a gourmet barbecue dinner piled high with ribs and fresh vegetables. Sit back and be entertained by an after-dinner farm show, that will give you a glimpse into high country farm life. After a fun-filled evening at the homestead, board the Earnslaw and head back to Queenstown, maybe taking a spin on their polished wooden dance floor.Accommodation: Millennium
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  7. Day 7
    Spectacular Franz Josef
    It’s a day of epic scenery into untamed wilderness as you head through Central Otago to the West Coast. Your first stop is the restored gold mining settlement of Arrowtown. As you walk down its tree-lined avenues and have a look at the 19th-century wooden buildings, you’ll feel as if you’re in a movie set of the Old West. You’ll then travel to Cromwell on the shores of Lake Dunstan for a visit to Mrs. Jones' Fruit Stall. Take a break sampling of some of the town's juicy stone fruit including apricots, nectarines and peaches before journeying further into Central Otago where the vivid blue waters and willow-lined shoreline of Lakes Hawea and Wanaka call. Take to an ancient greenstone trail, cross Haast Pass, and bid farewell to the alpine scenery of the Southern Lakes as you meet the rainforests of the West Coast for the first time. Stunning scenes await as you approach your destination of the famous Franz Josef Glacier/Ka Roimata o Hine Hukatere. Perhaps join an optional helicopter flight for unforgettable views of take in its majesty from the ground.Accommodation: Scenic Franz Josef Glacier
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  8. Day 8
    Punakaiki, Coastal Forest
    Awaken to a day filled with natural and man-made beauty. You have time to explore Franz Josef/Waiau, perhaps visiting the West Coast Wildlife Centre to see kiwi birds, before traveling to Hokitika for a lunch break. Then soak in the natural surroundings as you head to Punakaiki to view the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Standing at the water’s edge, you’ll be amazed at how these eroded limestone foundations that began forming 30 million years ago really do look like a stack of pancakes! As you marvel at nature’s creation, listen closely for a 'whoosh' of water - that's a burst of sea spray coming through the blowholes. Take in the sights, sounds, and sea air before making your way to the eco-friendly, Stays With Stories waterfront Scenic Hotel Punakaiki, where you’ll dine on local specialties and wine as the surf rolls and churns just outside your window.Accommodation: Scenic Punakaiki
    Meals:   Breakfast   Dinner
  9. Day 9
    Christchurch, City of Contrasts
    It’s your last full day in New Zealand and it’s a big one full of local tastes and sights. Travel to Greymouth’s Pounamu Pathway, for history and culture celebrating local Māori. Enjoy a pub-style lunch at local institution Monteith's Brewery, proud to operate in Greymouth since 1868 and perhaps try one of their summer ales or a crushed pear cider. Now that you’ve wet your whistle, board the famous TranzAlpine train to Christchurch on one of the world’s most scenic train trips through tunnels and over viaducts with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, icy rivers, beech forests, gorges, and river valleys. This 223 kilometres journey across the South Island along the Waimakariri River and across the Southern Alps is a grand finale to the landscapes you’ve come to love. Celebrate the highlights of your trip joining your Travel Director and new friends for dinner showcasing food from the Canterbury region.Accommodation: Distinction
    Meals:   Breakfast   Lunch   Dinner
  10. Day 10
    Farewell Christchurch
    It’s been a beautiful time but sadly all good things must come to an end. Your New Zealand South Island tour concludes this morning after breakfast with a fond farewell before your transfer to the Christchurch Airport (flights anytime).
    Meals:   Breakfast

OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620

Inclusions

Dining Summary

  • 9 Breakfast (B)
  • 6 Dinner (D)
  • 1 Lunch (L)
  • 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)

Be My Guest

  • Be My Guest experience: Afternoon tea with Pavlova Queen Angie at Lake Tekapo
  • Lake Tekapo: Join your hosts, former farmers Angie and Stan Taylor, for a Pavlova afternoon tea in their home on the shores of Lake Tekapo.

Dive into Culture

  • Walter Peak: Get up close to sheep and working dogs with a farm show at Walter Peak on the shores of Lake Wakatipu in the New Zealand high country.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

  • MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience: Pure Wilderness
  • Fiordland National Park: Enjoy an exhilarating jet boat ride on Lake Manapouri, home to Pomona Island, where you'll help conserve a sanctuary for native plants and animals

Must-see Highlights

  • Pure Wilderness at Lake Manapouri
  • Christchurch, Dunedin, and Queenstown
  • Franz Josef/Waiau, historic Arrowtown, and Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki
  • Franz Josef Glacier, Southern Alps, and Mt. Cook
  • Cruise on Milford Sound, Lake Wakatipu, TranzAlpine Train journey

Stays With Stories

  • Stays With Stories: Scenic Hotel Punakaiki

Trafalgar Difference

  • Punakaiki: Situated on idyllic Punakaiki Beach, the environmentally friendly retreat offers views of the ocean and rainforest. Designed in harmony with the environment, your stay gives you a unique insight into local ecology and nature.

Whats Included

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • Porterage where hotels provide this service
  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
  • Must-see sightseeing
  • All land transport shown. All transfers shown
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
  • Optional Experiences and free time

OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-935-2620

Questions & Answers
  Ask A Question

Question: How many suitcases can I take with me on my trip?

Each person is allowed one "check-in," and one "carry-on." Remember to take all valuables with you as "carry-on", because electronic equipment, cameras, laptops, jewelry, business documents and money are not covered by the airlines' liability, so always carry them aboard with you.

Question: Is Airfare Included in the Price?

Airfare from your point of origin to and from the trip is not included in the land price.

Customer Trip Reviews

Overall Rating
3.7
Accommodations
3.4
Itinerary
3.4
Professional Staff
4.2
Repeat with Operator
4.2
Value for Money
3.4
Ratings based off 5 reviews - currently showing 3 reviews with comments only
DN Devdutt on Feb 07, 2023  
Accommodations
5
Itinerary
5
Professional Staff
5
Repeat with Operator
5
Value for Money
5

John Scott was exceptional. Always helpful & courteous. I would highly recommend Affordable tours for friends & family.

TG Timothy on Mar 17, 2019  
Accommodations
1
Itinerary
3
Professional Staff
3
Repeat with Operator
3
Value for Money
3

Some of the accommodations were substandard. Too many buffet dinners.

BT Ben on Dec 25, 2016  
Accommodations
5
Itinerary
5
Professional Staff
3
Repeat with Operator
5
Value for Money
5

Everything was great in my trip to New Zealand's southern island, the scenery was certainly stunning! I had a good time, all the fellow travelers in the tour was very nice and friendly, and I have found some new friends there! New Zealand is a new country where air is very clean and people are honest and trustworthy welcoming tourists as well as foreigners with open arms. Next time I'd like to go back and see the Northern island of the country.

You May Also Like


AffordableTours.com® does not itself offer, service or administer the Travel Packages, and the ultimate terms and conditions of any Travel Package made available via the Site Offerings (including the prices quoted in connection with same) will be determined by the applicable Third-Party Travel Service Provider. AffordableTours.com® does not represent or warrant that the Price Quotes are accurate, up-to-date or free of error, or that same will be honored by the applicable Third-Party Travel Service Providers. All Price Quotes, Travel Package availability, Travel Package details/itinerary and other Content are subject to change without notice. All travel details published by and through the Site Offerings should be confirmed directly with the applicable Third-Party Travel Service Provider prior to making any travel plans. Reliance on any information made available to you by and through the Site Offerings is solely at your own risk.

How It Works

Vacationing has never been easier or cheaper with the help of a dedicated travel consultant from AffordableTours.com

Freq Quote 1. Free Quote

Find your perfect trip on our website and simply request a free quote. Need to speak to a live person? Call us 7 days a week at 1-800-935-2620. No robots here!

Dedicated Travel Consultant 2. Dedicated Travel Consultant

Your personal travel consultant will reach out and be your point of contact for your entire travel experience from start to finish. Did we mention you'll be working with an award winning team? Sweet!

Low Price Guaranteed 3. Low Price Guaranteed

Because we're one of the largest sellers of travel, we're able to give you a discount on your vacation package. No one beats our prices!

Stress Free Travel 4. Stress Free Travel

Knowing you got a great deal, all that's left is for you to pack your bags and enjoy your vacation!


Better Business Bureau

AffordableTours.com is a proud recipient of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) awards 2006-2024 with A+ Rating.

It Pays To Refer! Earn Up To $200!

It's simple: Sign up your friends, family, and anyone to us and when they book you will receive an American Express gift card worth up to $200 in the mail for simply referring.

Learn About Our Referral Program


Get discounts by Email!