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).