From
$7,440
NZ $6,324

Southern Spectacular (2025/26)

10 days
Start and end in Christchurch
4.9
11 traveler reviews
From
$7,440
-15%
NZ $6,324
Find this price
Save and compare this adventure
Payment plan $200 now + easy payments of $500 Learn More

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:
In-depth Cultural
Immerse yourself in rich history and local traditions
Fully Guided
An experienced guide will be with you for the entire tour
Guided in English
Group Size 20 - 50
Age range 5 to 99
Image of a map showing the route of the tour

Highlights

  • Cruise on the magical waters of mystical Milford Sound
  • Journey over the Southern Alps on the TranzAlpine Train
  • Discover the icy landscape of Franz Josef Glacier
  • Immerse yourself in the cultural traditions of Dunedin

Itinerary

Expand All
  1. Introduction
  1. Day 1 Welcome to Christchurch
  2. Day 2 Christchurch - Twizel
  3. Day 3 Twizel - Dunedin
  4. Day 4 Dunedin - Te Anau
  5. Day 5 Te Anau - Queenstown
  6. Day 6 Queenstown Free Time
  7. Day 7 Queenstown - Franz Josef/Waiau
  8. Day 8 Franz Josef/Waiau - Punakaiki
  9. Day 9 Punakaiki - Christchurch
  10. Day 10 Farewell from Christchurch
Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

Expand All
  • Accommodation
  • Guide
  • Meals
  • Additional Services
  • Transport
  • Free eSIM
    TourRadar offers the lead traveler (the person who booked) a free 1GB eSIM for the trip. The eSIM is redeemable only through the TourRadar app 72 hours before departure.

What's Not Included

  • Flights
  • Insurance
  • Optional
  • Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

All accommodations are subject to change

Customer Photos

Operated by

AAT Kings

Number of tours

279

Age Range

5 to 99 years old

Response time

within 2 days

Response rate

92%

Since 1912, AAT Kings as a tour operator has been helping people from all...

Read more

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Your Peace of Mind Options

Cancellation Policy

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

Travel Insurance

Be covered for any unforseen circumstances.

Customer Reviews

  • Overall Rating
    Excellent
    4.9
  • Itinerary
    Excellent
    4.9
  • Guide
    Excellent
    5.0
  • Transport
    Excellent
    5.0
  • Accommodation
    Excellent
    4.8
  • Food
    Excellent
    4.7
  • 4.3
  • Most Recent
  • Most Popular
  • Highest First
  • Lowest First
  • PD
    · April 16th, 2024
    I thoroughly enjoyed my tour. The guide, Isobel, paid very good attention to details and the comfort of her tourists.I felt safe and secure in the bus as Mark's driving was very competent and Isobel was delightful, patient and full of fun, a real people person.She and Mark worked well together, meal times, departure times and other important information was provided well in advance. Good provision was made for frequent stops to allow for toilet breaks and the purchase of refreshments. I liked their attention to time keeping. For me, everything worked smoothly which made the tour relaxed and stress free. I would highly recommend Isobel and Mark.
    Show more
    Trip date: March 2024
  • NS
    · February 16th, 2024
    Overall an excellent tour. But it was surprising and disappointing that in some of the hotels, the shower was in the bath.
    Show more
    Trip date: February 2024
  • JM
    · January 29th, 2024
    Isabel and Stu were so knowledgeable and fun throughout the tour! What an educational and exciting tour.
    Show more
    Trip date: January 2024
  • SS
    · November 18th, 2023
    Great itinerary and guide. Hotels and food...
    Show more
    Southern Spectacular (2025/26) customer review photo 1Southern Spectacular (2025/26) customer review photo 2Southern Spectacular (2025/26) customer review photo 3Southern Spectacular (2025/26) customer review photo 4Southern Spectacular (2025/26) customer review photo 5Southern Spectacular (2025/26) customer review photo 6
    Trip date: November 2023
  • Southern Spectacular (2025/26) reviewer 5
    · April 29th, 2023
    My tour was wonderful, awesome scenic views and...
    Show more
    Trip date: April 2023
  • JM
    · April 28th, 2023
    Great tour host, great driver. No name tags...
    Show more
    Trip date: April 2023
  • TB
    · March 27th, 2023
    The 10 day tour of the South Island was well...
    Show more
    Trip date: February 2023
  • MM
    · February 11th, 2023
    Fantastic Best vacation
    Trip date: January 2023
  • JB
    · January 21st, 2023
    We saw so much of the South Island of New...
    Show more
    Trip date: December 2022
  • Southern Spectacular (2025/26) reviewer 10
    · September 26th, 2019
    Tour was excellent, great guild and coach...
    Show more
    AAT Kings commented on this review
    Hi Kathryn, thanks so much for sharing your feedback. We are so happy to hear that you enjoyed your holiday through New Zealand's spectacular South with us! Hope to see you on another AAT Kings tour soon.
    Trip date: August 2019

Dates & Availability

10 days
Southern Spectacular (2025/26)
From Christchurch to Christchurch

Why book with TourRadar?

    • Trusted and vetted operators
    • Rated excellent on
    • Best price guarantee
    • 24/7 customer support
    • Earn $100 in travel credits
    • Free eSim with every purchase

    To protect your payment and ensure your booking will be processed in Australia, never transfer or communicate outside of the TourRadar website or app.

More benefits
Select a departure month
  • Upcoming departures
  • September 2025
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Select Your Tour Version

Upcoming departures
Hurry, deals only available for a limited time!
Ends on 24 Jun, 2025
  • Instant Confirmation
    From Tuesday
    23 Sep, 2025
    To Thursday
    2 Oct, 2025
    English
    Filling Fast
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
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    From:
    $7,220
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    14 Oct, 2025
    To Thursday
    23 Oct, 2025
    This departure date is not available or sold out
    Sold out
  • Instant Confirmation
    -15%
    From Tuesday
    21 Oct, 2025
    To Thursday
    30 Oct, 2025
    English
    Multiple Room Types
    From:
    $7,440
    $6,324
  • Instant Confirmation
    -15%
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    28 Oct, 2025
    To Thursday
    6 Nov, 2025
    English
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    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
    Multiple Room Types
    From:
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    $6,324
  • From Tuesday
    4 Nov, 2025
    To Thursday
    13 Nov, 2025
    English
    Almost Sold Out
    Check the availability with the operator
    Departure on request
    Multiple Room Types
    From:
    $7,440
  • From Tuesday
    11 Nov, 2025
    To Thursday
    20 Nov, 2025
    English
    Almost Sold Out
    Check the availability with the operator
    Departure on request
    Multiple Room Types
    From:
    $7,440
  • Instant Confirmation
    -15%
    From Tuesday
    18 Nov, 2025
    To Thursday
    27 Nov, 2025
    English
    Filling Fast
    Multiple Room Types
    From:
    $7,440
    $6,324
  • Instant Confirmation
    From Tuesday
    25 Nov, 2025
    To Thursday
    4 Dec, 2025
    English
    Filling Fast
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
    Multiple Room Types
    From:
    $7,440
  • From Tuesday
    2 Dec, 2025
    To Thursday
    11 Dec, 2025
    This departure date is not available or sold out
    Sold out
  • Instant Confirmation
    -15%
    From Tuesday
    9 Dec, 2025
    To Thursday
    18 Dec, 2025
    English
    Filling Fast
    This departure date is available and will 100% depart
    Guaranteed departure
    Multiple Room Types
    From:
    $7,440
    $6,324
From
$7,440
-15%
NZ $6,324
Find this price
Save and compare this adventure
Payment plan $200 now + easy payments of $500 Learn More

Best price guarantee Learn More

Plan your adventure:

What our customers ask about this tour

The content in our FAQ section is subject to change.
All questions
  • N

    Nicola

    Asked on February 20th, 2025

    I live in NZ and have an Austrian friend visiting in April interested in a South Island tour. The Southern Spectacular looks a good fit for her but she flies into Auckland (from Japan) morning of 16 April (your tour starts 15 April in Christchurch). She could fly to Christchurch on her arrival on the 16th to catch up with you. So I'm wondering what time you leave Christchurch on the 16th? If she can't make it there in time do you have a recommendation for how she could meet up with you in Twizel or any other way of handling?

    Flights / Transfers
    Tour Details
    • AAT KingsOperatorWritten February 2025

      The tour will depart from Christchurch by 10:00 AM on the 16th of April 2025. If the guest will not possible to arrive on that time, our operations team advised that she/he needs to arrange a private transfer going to Twizel to join the tour.

    • N

      Nicola

      TravelerWritten February 2025

      If my friend is able to join the tour it looks like it'll have to be in Dunedin, would there be a price discount for the days she will not enjoy the tour?

    • AAT KingsOperatorWritten February 2025

      Regrettably, we cannot provide a discount for the missed dates due to late arrival, as the payment covers the entire trip cost. However, we can offer some discounts if your companion has traveled with us before or holds a concessionaire discount.

    • N
      2 more answers
  • M

    Marian

    Asked on January 4th, 2025

    What sort of travel support is offered during the tour?

    Travel Support
    • AAT KingsOperatorWritten January 2025

      Comprehensive support includes access to a tour director and local guides who are available to assist with any issues during your trip. Additionally, emergency contact numbers are provided.

  • G

    Graciela

    Asked on December 20th, 2024

    What is the maximum group size for the tours?

    Group size
    • AAT KingsOperatorWritten December 2024

      The tours are designed for various group sizes, with some tours suitable for smaller groups for a more personalized experience, while others can accommodate larger groups for a social traveling experience.

  • T

    Tanya

    Asked on December 15th, 2024

    What are the age requirements for travelers on the tour?

    Age Range
    • AAT KingsOperatorWritten December 2024

      Travelers of all ages are welcome; however, minors must be accompanied by an adult and some activities may have age restrictions.

  • R

    Rachael

    Asked on November 2nd, 2024

    l plan to land in Christchurch on Apr 22, 0.05am. Should i book the tour on Apr 22-May 1, or Apr 23-May 2?

    Flights / Transfers
    Tour Details
    • AAT KingsOperatorWritten November 2024

      Apologies, the Southern Spectacular tour on 22-Apr-2025 is not available anymore and we do not have scheduled tour for 21st of April for this tour. The next available departure date we can offer is the 1st of July 2025 and it was currently on request status.

  • M

    Marije

    Asked on September 19th, 2024

    What type of transport is used between tour locations?

    Transport
    • AAT KingsOperatorWritten September 2024

      Transportation varies depending on the tour and can include buses, trains, or other local transport options. It’s designed to enhance the tour experience by allowing scenic commutes between locations.

  • M

    Monica

    Asked on September 9th, 2024

    My wife and I are in our 70s. Is this a suitable trip. Also, what meals are included

    Age Range
    Meals
    • AAT KingsOperatorWritten September 2024

      The tour is designed for individuals with a low level of fitness, and most of our guests are typically within your age group. Please be aware that the motorcoach has steep stairs for entry and exit. Should you have any concerns about accessibility, kindly provide us with your specific requirements so that our operations team can assess the tour's suitability for you. We frequently accommodate guests using foldable wheelchairs and walkers, but advance notice would be appreciated. Regarding meals, the tour package includes 9 full buffet breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 'Be My Guest' afternoon tea, 1 highlight dinner, 5 dinners with wine, and 1 farewell dinner.

  • A

    Antonio

    Asked on August 10th, 2024

    Is there a single supplement available and how much

    Price / Availability
    Single supplement
    • AAT KingsOperatorWritten August 2024

      The tour Southern Spectacular is currently available and a definite departure. The price for single supplement booking is $7,939.00 AUD

  • H

    Holly

    Asked on July 10th, 2024

    How can I pay for the tour?

    Payments
    • AAT KingsOperatorWritten July 2024

      Payments can be made via several methods including credit card, bank transfer, or online payment platforms. Specific payment options available will be detailed once you choose your tour package.

  • K

    Kimberly

    Asked on April 3rd, 2024

    What are the visa requirements for international travelers?

    Visa
    • AAT KingsOperatorWritten April 2024

      Visa requirements vary by country. Travelers are advised to check entry requirements based on their personal circumstances and the countries they are visiting.

Can’t find the answer to your question?
Reach out to the experts at AAT Kings with your enquiry, they usually respond within 2 days.

Good to Know

Tour ID: 137139

  • Currency
    $
    New Zealand Dollar
    New Zealand
  • Plugs & Adapters

    Type I
    New Zealand
  • Visa
    • Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
    • Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
  • Payment information
    • For any tour departing before August 21st, 2025 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after August 21st, 2025, a minimum payment of $200 is required to confirm your booking with AAT Kings. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 65 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
    • Some departure dates and prices may vary and AAT Kings will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
    • The following cards are accepted for "AAT Kings" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
  • Cancellation Policy
  • Accessibility
    Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveler, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team, who are ready and waiting to help you.

Videos

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