NEW ZEALAND’S SOUTH ISLAND IN BLOOM

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Christchurch, passing landmarks including the Arts Centre, Avon River, National Earthquake Memorial and Cathedral. Following lunch at a local restaurant, travel to the magnificent Ohinetahi Gardens, where beautifully designed formal gardens, reflective pools, rose gardens, woodland walks and striking sculptures create an unforgettable setting. Wander through this extraordinary estate, admiring its harmonious blend of architecture, history and nature, including a restored parkland inspired by the original landscape. Afterwards, return to Christchurch at a leisurely pace, in time for your dinner at Bloody Mary’s restaurant at your hotel.

Today, travel north across the Canterbury Plains and over the scenic Hundalee Ranges. First, visit Blue House Amberley, an inspiring sustainable garden showcasing drought-tolerant plantings, colourful borders, productive gardens and innovative design. Next, continue to the award-winning Flaxmere Garden, where tranquil ponds, woodland, roses, native plantings and breathtaking alpine views create a spectacular setting. Enjoy a light lunch before returning to Christchurch. The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing time to relax or explore the city at your own pace.

After breakfast, journey to the picturesque Banks Peninsula and the charming French-inspired township of Akaroa. Visit the extraordinary Giant’s House, where vibrant mosaic sculptures, colourful gardens and imaginative artworks create a truly unique experience. Following lunch, enjoy free time to explore Akaroa before returning to Christchurch via Broadfield Garden, renowned for its beautifully designed landscapes, along with an impressive collection of native and exotic plants. Afterwards, return to Christchurch, where the remainder of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

This morning travel along New Zealand’s scenic east coast through Ashburton and Timaru. En route, visit the award-winning Trott’s Garden, where woodland paths, tranquil water gardens and elegant English-inspired formal gardens create a delightful experience. Enjoy lunch before continuing through Temuka and historic Oamaru, renowned for its striking white stone architecture. If time permits, stop at the fascinating Moeraki Boulders before arriving in Dunedin, a city proud of its Scottish heritage. This evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner at your hotel.

Hotel: Distinction Dunedin for 3 nights

Begin today with a Dunedin sightseeing tour, including a visit to the renowned Dunedin Botanic Garden, where formal gardens, native forests, vibrant seasonal displays and international plant collections await. Next, explore the elegant Olveston Historic Home and Garden, a beautifully preserved Edwardian estate surrounded by tranquil gardens. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the city at your own pace. This evening, experience dinner at the famous Speight’s Ale House, located within Dunedin’s iconic Speight’s Brewery.

Enjoy a scenic tour of Otago Peninsula, beginning with a visit to Glenfalloch Garden, a beautiful woodland sanctuary featuring rhododendrons, seasonal plantings, native species and stunning harbour views. Next, explore the historic Larnach Castle gardens on an exclusive Insider Garden Tour, discovering rare plants, formal gardens and enchanting pathways. Enjoy a traditional Victorian High Tea for lunch, followed by a guided castle tour. Afterwards, return to Dunedin, where the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Depart Dunedin and travel through the scenic Taieri Plain, once a vast swamp and now a thriving agricultural region. Continue through historic gold rush towns including Lawrence, Roxburgh, Alexandra and Clyde before following the Kawarau Gorge to Cromwell. Here, visit Jo Wakelin’s acclaimed dry garden, a sustainable landscape showcasing drought-tolerant plants and innovative design. Enjoy lunch at The Stoaker Room, featuring barrel-cooked cuisine paired with local wines. Afterwards, continue to Queenstown, situated beside Lake Wakatipu, and enjoy an orientation tour before leisure time.

Hotel: Novotel for 3 nights

Enjoy a leisurely self-guided walk through the Queenstown Botanic Gardens, beautifully positioned beside Lake Wakatipu and featuring a charming rose garden and diverse tree collections. Afterwards, take the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak, where spectacular panoramic views await. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch overlooking the region before spending the remainder of the day at leisure to explore Queenstown’s vibrant attractions.

This morning, visit the charming village of Arrowtown, a former gold rush settlement nestled beside the Arrow River. Enjoy time to explore its cafés, galleries, boutiques and historic Chinese Settlement, which honours the region’s gold mining heritage. Afterwards, relax during leisure time before an unforgettable evening experience. Cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak Farm, where you’ll enjoy a gourmet BBQ dinner, farm entertainment and a magical return voyage.

Spend a leisurely morning in Queenstown before being transferred to the airport for your flight to Australia. Upon arrival in Perth, your drivers will be waiting to transfer you home.