Otago Scenic Tours
Southern Autumn Colours (April) 9 Days
Day
1 - Christchurch to Omarama
Depart Christchurch heading south and inland through Geraldine, Fairlie,
into the Mackenzie Country. Weather permitting a side trip to Mt Cook Village
is very special. The Day will finish in Omarama.
Day 2 – Omarama to Wanaka
Start the Day with a visit to Clay Cliffs, a wonderful quirk of nature,
followed by a trip through the stunning Lindis Pass and on up to the ghost
town of Bendigo. We finish the Day in the Wanaka Region.
Day 3 – Wanaka to Arrowtown
A drive up the Matukituki Valley followed by a walk up to the best viewpoint
of the Rob Roy Glacier. This is our highest foray into the mountains and
well worth the effort. Following this side trip we will make our way to
Arrowtown via the Crown Range.
Day
4 – Arrowtown
From Arrowtown we can fit in a variety of activities including Glenorchy,
Queenstown and stunning walks in Autumn colours. We spend a second night
in Arrowtown.
Day 5 – Arrowtown to Catlins
For a contrast we head for Owaka in the Catlins and spend time visiting
some of the most picturesque southern rainforest.
Day 6 – Catlins
Staying at Owaka for a second night, the Day is a mix of waterfalls, mighty
coastal views, bush and wildlife.
Day
7 – Catlins to Naseby
Once again we head back into the central Otago region and walk a section
of the Otago Central Rail Trail, viewing stunning handiwork of the stonemasons
and the natural harsh beauty of the Poolburn Gorge. No visit to this area
is complete without a visit to Hayes Engineering. We finish the Day at Naseby.
Day 8 – Naseby to Dunedin
Heading down country we see examples of nature’s sculpting followed
by a trip to Dunedin on the Taieri Gorge Railway. We finish the Day in Dunedin,
said to be the most Scottish of New Zealand’s cities.
Day 9 – Dunedin to Christchurch
Following a visit to the Albatross Colony and Taiaroa Historic Fort (with
disappearing gun) we make our way back to Christchurch, arriving early evening.
Tour includes:
Free pick up within Christchurch metropolitan area.
All travel and accommodation costs.
All meals – breakfast, lunch, dinner (except one evening meal out).
Trip on Taieri Gorge Railway.
Entry to Albatross Colony and Taiaroa Historic Fort.
Extras you will need to budget for:
Travel costs to and from Christchurch.
Any extra nights you may wish to stay in Christchurch.
One evening meal out during the trip.
Café extras (special coffees etc).
