Day 21 Fly to Queenstown

Meals included: B D
Accommodations: Ramada Central Queenstown

Activity Note: Today, our transfer from Hokitika to Queenstown will involve a bus ride of up to five hours, with stops included, over roads that may be bumpy or uneven at times, and about a 1-hour flight.

Breakfast: Served at the hotel beginning at 7:30am featuring hot and cold dishes.

Morning: We will check out of our hotel this morning to begin our journey to Queenstown. We will depart via motorcoach around 8:30am for an overland transfer to the Christchurch airport. Our transfer will take up to 5 hours with stops included. First, we make the 1- to 2-hour drive to Arthur’s Pass. We will stop here for about 30 minutes to enjoy the massive peaks and take pictures. Then, we will drive to a local town in the Canterbury Plains, arriving around noon.

Lunch: On your own. There will be local café options for you to choose from, ranging from sandwiches to sweeter options like pies and cakes. Your Trip Experience Leader will provide recommendations on the best spots to try.

Afternoon: Around 1pm, we will drive about 45 minutes to the Christchurch airport. Our 1-hour flight to Queenstown will take off around 3pm. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to our centrally-located hotel. Depending on where we stay, our hotel may feature an on-site restaurant, lounge, and fitness center. Room amenities include wireless Internet, TV, air-conditioning, and private bathroom. Following check-in around 5:30pm, we will set out on an orientation walk with our Trip Experience Leader to familiarize ourselves with the surrounding area.

The city has gained notoriety for being the "adventure capital of the world," attracting skiers, white-water rafters, and other thrill-seekers who are drawn to its rapids and peaks. Yet it can also be seen as a rejuvenating retreat for those in need of some fresh mountain air. Following our orientation walk, we will walk to dinner near our hotel.

Dinner: At a local restaurant around 6pm featuring modern New Zealand specialties.

Evening: On your own. Perhaps you'll step out into the city for some nighttime exploring. For star gazers, Queenstown is quite a delight. In fact in wintertime, the southern lights or "aurora australis" can often be seen from here.

Freedom to Explore

Make the most of your time in Queenstown with these suggestions for independent exploration from our local regional office. Your Trip Experience Leader will lead the activity with the most traveler interest.

Board the TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak Station, walking to the port with your Trip Experience Leader: Cruise across the picturesque lake via steamship to the Walter Peak sheep station to enjoy tea at the homestead and learn about the area’s pioneering women.

How to get there: A 10-minute walk with your Trip Experience Leader.
Hours: 9am-4pm, every 2 hours.
Cost: About $67 USD.

Hit the open road with Queenstown Bike Tours: Witness the stunning natural environment of the region from the comfort of a bike along trails designed for all levels of fitness. Pedal through alpine forests, wind the shores of pristine rivers, and take in the fresh, crisp air, all while having the freedom to stop and go as you please. Plan to spend a half day touring by bike.

How to get there: A 20-minute shuttle bus, about $5 USD.
Hours: September-July; daily hours of operation vary.
Cost: About $45 USD.

Relax and rejuvenate after the day’s adventures at Onsen Hot Pools: Treat yourself to a soak in one of these traditional Japanese-style, cedar-lined tubs and enjoy a soothing experience for both the mind and body. Each indoor tub offers spectacular views of the Shotover River and the mountains beyond. Complimentary snacks and beverages are provided. You may also wish to indulge in one of the many treatments offered by the onsite spa.

How to get there: A 10-minute complimentary shuttle bus from the hotel, please call ahead to reserve
Hours: Daily; 9am to 11pm.
Cost: From $87.50 USD for daytime visits and $107.50 USD for evening visits. Please note that this is a very popular activity in Queenstown and it is advised to book early.

5/16/23

Close Window