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Central South Island Holidays
Trailfinders is the UK & Ireland’s No.1 Tour Operator to New Zealand and most of our travel consultants have travelled extensively here. What we specialise in is tailormade holidays in New Zealand and with us, in every part of the country, you can pick and choose how you’d like to get around, where you’d like to stay and how you’d like to experience the attractions.
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Speak to a Travel Expert
We believe booking online is no substitute for one-on-one service. Between them our expert travel consultants have travelled to over 96% of the world's countries. As a result the service and advice they offer is second to none.
OUR HOLIDAYS TO CENTRAL SOUTH ISLAND
Best of New Zealand
Fly Drive Holiday
20 days / 19 nights
Covering both North and South Island highlights, this journey showcases the best of what this magnificent country has to offer.
20 days / 19 nights
Covering both North and South Island highlights, this journey showcases the best of what this magnificent country has to offer.
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Absolute Luxury New Zealand
Fly Drive Holiday
16 days / 15 nights
This exceptional holiday brings together a collection of New Zealand’s finest lodges and hotels. Set in magnificent, scenic locations, all offer personalised experiences and outstanding Kiwi hospitality.
16 days / 15 nights
This exceptional holiday brings together a collection of New Zealand’s finest lodges and hotels. Set in magnificent, scenic locations, all offer personalised experiences and outstanding Kiwi hospitality.
Unique & Boutique New Zealand
Fly Drive Holiday
23 days / 22 nights
Thoughtfully picked for their character, intimate size and warm bespoke service, this unforgettable journey pairs New Zealand’s iconic sights with its most charming and unusual properties.
23 days / 22 nights
Thoughtfully picked for their character, intimate size and warm bespoke service, this unforgettable journey pairs New Zealand’s iconic sights with its most charming and unusual properties.
South Island Highlights
Fly Drive Holiday
17 days / 16 nights
Discover the beauty of the South Island: stunning wine regions, shimmering glaciers, amazing Queenstown and beautiful Milford Sound.
17 days / 16 nights
Discover the beauty of the South Island: stunning wine regions, shimmering glaciers, amazing Queenstown and beautiful Milford Sound.
South Island Less Travelled
Fly Drive Holiday
11 days / 10 nights
Explore the path less trodden on this captivating journey encompassing the delights of Akaroa, abundant nature experiences on the scenic south east coast and the rural beauty of Stewart Island.
11 days / 10 nights
Explore the path less trodden on this captivating journey encompassing the delights of Akaroa, abundant nature experiences on the scenic south east coast and the rural beauty of Stewart Island.
Kiwis & Campers
Family Holiday
16 days / 15 nights
This unforgettable adventure is perfect for all ages and has been carefully designed to limit longer drives. Hit the beach in the beautiful Bay of Islands and discover the epic mountain landscapes of the stunning South Island.
16 days / 15 nights
This unforgettable adventure is perfect for all ages and has been carefully designed to limit longer drives. Hit the beach in the beautiful Bay of Islands and discover the epic mountain landscapes of the stunning South Island.
WHERE TO GO IN CENTRAL SOUTH ISLAND
Christchurch & Akaroa
While parts of Christchurch are yet to fully recover from the 2013 earthquake, the Garden City’s beautiful botanic gardens and eclectic mix of heritage and modern architecture mean it’s still a good option for a short stay. An hour and a half’s drive east, the lush Banks Peninsula was originally an island formed of two volcanic cones and is now home to the scenic township of Akaroa. With its unique French colonial history, rare Hector’s dolphins frolicking in the bay and a passion for fine cuisine, Akaroa makes for a wonderful stop on any itinerary.
Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers
Poised in the heart of glacier country on the beautiful west coast, the awe-inspiring Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are best experienced on a thrilling helicopter adventure, where you can marvel at the cascading blue ice from above or hike across the surface with an experienced guide. Ever a land of contrasts, the small village of Franz Josef is set amongst lush rainforest and offers an ideal base to explore the region; visit rare kiwi chicks at the West Coast Wildlife Centre and
enjoy a relaxing dip in the Glacier Hot Pools as night falls.
Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki
The inherent beauty of this region becomes apparent as soon as you set eyes on the vivid glacial waters of Lake Tekapo and its lesser known but equally spectacular neighbour, Lake Pukaki, which reflects Mount Cook in its shimmering turquoise waters. A UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, the region becomes even more magical at night when the stars of the Milky Way dazzle above you. Deservedly popular, lakeside accommodation can be busy but the nearby town of Twizel makes for a great base from which to explore these glorious lakes and majestic Mount Cook.
OUR RECOMMENDED HOTELS IN CENTRAL SOUTH ISLAND
Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Marlborough, Abel Tasman & Kaikoura
Ideally located on the edge of Franz Josef village, this contemporary and luxurious property provides easy access to the glacier and an indulgent level of comfort surrounded by native west coast rainforest. After a busy day sightseeing, dine amongst the trees as you enjoy a delectable five course degustation dinner in the hotel’s famous Canopy Restaurant. With attentive service, Te Waonui Forest Retreat provides a unique stay in this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage listed area. Please note Hotel open seasonally from Sep - Apr.
Lakestone Lodge
Central South Island
Poised on a hillside above the shimmering turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki, this gorgeous eco lodge boasts understated luxury and breathtaking views of the magnificent snow-tipped peak of Mount Cook. Stroll through the beautiful gardens, planted with native trees and shrubs, spot the resident birdlife and enjoy a bike ride alongside the crystal-clear lake. As night falls enjoy delectable cuisine produced with only the freshest local ingredients and head out to your private patio with a glass of fine wine to watch the sky come alive with the stars of the Milky Way. With just six thoughtfully designed rooms, warm personalised service and a spectacular lakefront location, a stay at Lakestone Lodge is a true highlight on any South Island itinerary.
The George
Central South Island
With a reputation for stylish individuality, warm hospitality and award-winning cuisine, this beautiful boutique-style property offers intimate luxury in the heart of Christchurch.
Akaroa Village Inn
Central South Island
These delightful waterfront apartments enjoy an idyllic location in the heart of Akaroa, just steps from the harbour. Please note: As the apartments are individually owned the décor may vary.
Wilderness Lodge
Central South Island
Set amidst a 1,600 hectare working sheep farm and nature reserve in the heart of the Southern Alps, this family owned and operated property offers truly memorable wilderness experiences. Warm hospitality and excellent food complement an exciting array of guided nature and sheep farm adventures. Please note: Lodge open seasonally from Sep - Apr.
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
Marlborough, Abel Tasman & Kaikoura
This modern hotel has great facilities and is perfectly located in the quaint Franz Josef village making it ideal for exploring the stunning glacier and surrounding UNESCO World Heritage listed area.THINGS TO DO IN CENTRAL SOUTH ISLAND
Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise
Approx 2 hours
Modern catamaran Dolphins & seals Fully narrated tour
International Antarctic Centre
Attraction Tickets
Resident penguins Ride an arctic expedition vehicle
Mount Cook Helicopter Tour
Approx 35 mins
New Zealand’s highest mountain Spectacular views
Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike
Approx 3 hours
Scenic helicopter flight Ice hike
Fox and Franz Josef Glacier Landing by Helicopter
Approx 30min
Spectacular glacial scenery Thrilling glacier landing Expansive snowfields
Mount John Observatory Tour
Approx 2 hours
Mount John summit Panoramic views Star gazing
Speak to a Travel Expert
We believe booking online is no substitute for one-on-one service. Between them our expert travel consultants have travelled to over 96% of the world's countries. As a result the service and advice they offer is second to none.
Order a brochure
For inspiration on how to include any of these destinations in a tailormade
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Trailfinders brochure
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Central South Island Fast Facts
Visa information given is given for
British
citizens holding a valid
UK
passport with at least 6 months validity remaining. Immunisation guidelines assume routine
UK
childhood immunisation has been given and will not apply to all situations. Medical advice should be
sought. Your Trailfinders consultant will advise you of the specific visa and immunisation
requirements for your trip.
YOUR TRAVEL PLANS ALWAYS TO HAND, ANYWHERE, ANYTIME - YOUR ESSENTIAL TRAVEL COMPANION
Our free Viewtrail App stores your essential travel information in one secure place, ensuring we are with you from start to finish.
- View your travel plans on or offline, wherever and whenever you wish
- Live flight notifications - real time information as you travel
- Online check-in links and pre-tour notifications
- Luggage allowance
- Mapped places of interest - restaurants, shops, stations...plus route guidance back to your hotel
- View e-vouchers and export them to your Apple wallet
- Secure access to booking history, profile and insurance contact information
- One touch emergency contact 365/24/7
- Add to calendar function
- Countdown to travel
- Local time, weather, translator and exchange rate calculator