Christchurch (Lyttelton)

Embark on an unforgettable two-day journey from Christchurch to Dunedin, exploring the stunning landscapes and cultural treasures of New Zealand's South Island. Spend one night at Lake Tekapo which is part of a UNESCO

Dark Sky Reserve making it the perfect spot for stargazing.

Day 1

Begin your adventure in Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island, known for its dynamic blend of modern design and historical charm. Start with a city tour, where you'll explore the resilient city that has been thoughtfully rebuilt after the 2011 earthquake.

Next, embark on a guided tour of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens aboard an eco-friendly electric shuttle. As you traverse the lush landscapes, you'll encounter historic trees, vibrant flower beds, and a diverse array of native and exotic plants. The live commentary provides insights into the region's unique flora and the gardens' rich history.

After your time in Christchurch, journey southward through the fertile Canterbury Plains, renowned for their lush farmland and mesmerizing braided rivers. Your first stop is Ashburton, a vibrant town with a rich history and strong aviation heritage. Here, you'll visit the Ashburton Aviation Museum, home to one of New Zealand's finest collections of vintage aircraft. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery before continuing your journey.

Travel through the charming town of Geraldine, known for its warm hospitality and picturesque surroundings. As you ascend into the highlands, you'll be surrounded by vast open landscapes and panoramic views of the Southern Alps.

Arrive at Lake Tekapo, a picturesque alpine lake famous for its striking turquoise waters and dramatic mountain backdrop.

Before checking into your hotel, visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, a historic and iconic landmark that offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

After checking into your hotel, unwind at leisure amidst the serene natural beauty or explore the wealth of outdoor activities Lake Tekapo offers, such as hiking, kayaking, or cycling.

Gather with your fellow travelers for dinner after which you will enjoy an awe-inspiring indoor stargazing experience, exploring the wonders of the night sky from the comfort of an indoor setting. As darkness falls, step outside to witness the mesmerizing celestial display right at your doorstep. The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, celebrated for its crystal-clear skies and unparalleled stargazing opportunities, showcases the unspoiled beauty of the Mackenzie Region's largely light-pollution-free skies.

Day 2

After breakfast and checking out, start your day with a scenic drive through the Otago Highlands, passing through the quaint town of Omarama. Along the way, marvel at the breathtaking views of Lake Pukaki, renowned for its striking turquoise waters and its backdrop of the Southern Alps. Continue your journey to Benmore Dam, one of New Zealand's largest earth dams, where you can admire this engineering marvel and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Next, head to Oamaru, a charming town known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and thriving arts scene. You will enjoy lunch at one of the local eateries and take a stroll through Victoria Quarter - New Zealand’s best preserved Victorian commercial streetscape.

After lunch, ascend into the highlands where you'll be surrounded by vast, open landscapes and panoramic views of the Southern Alps. Visit the famous Moeraki Boulders, a natural wonder consisting of large, spherical stones scattered across Koekohe Beach. These intriguing geological formations have captivated visitors for centuries with their unique shapes and mysterious origins.

Finally, travel along the picturesque east coast, with its breathtaking ocean views, before arriving in Dunedin. Renowned for its preserved Victorian architecture, dramatic hills, and rugged coastline, Dunedin offers a rich cultural experience. Conclude your day with a brief city tour (time permitting) before joining your ship for the next leg of your journey, reflecting on the stunning landscapes and cultural treasures you've experienced along the way.

Land Program Step by Step:

Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program details including timings indicated below are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Direct flights are never guaranteed. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.

DAY 1

8:30am Disembark ship and board coach

9:30am Arrive at Botanic Gardens for guided tour

10:30am Depart for Ashburton

11:50am Lunch in Ashburton

12:50pm Visit Ashburton Aviation Museum

1:50pm Depart for Geraldine

2:50pm Arrive Geraldine for restroom and ice cream stop

3:10pm Depart Geraldine for Tekapo with scenic stops at lakes and historic sites

5:00pm Arrive Tekapo and Check in to your hotel

Afternoon at leisure

6:30pm Dinner at Peppers Bluewater Resort Restaurant

8:30pm Dark Skies Planetarium Experience

Overnight at Peppers Bluewater Resort or similar hotel

DAY 2

6:30am Breakfast at hotel and check out, settle any incidentals before departing

8:00am Depart for Benmore Dam, travel via Omarama for restroom and photo stop

10:10am Time at Benmore Dam

10:30am Depart for Oamaru and travel via Lake Aviemore

12:00pm Arrive Oamaru for lunch and visit to Victorian Quarter

1:45pm Depart for Moeraki

2:30pm Arrive at Moeraki and visit boulders

3:15pm Depart for Dunedin via scenic drive

4:30pm Arrive Dunedin and brief city tour (time permitting)

5:20pm Arrive the port and reboard the ship

Weather

New Zealand’s seasons are the reverse of those in the Northern Hemisphere. This means that the warmest months are December, January and February, while the coldest are June, July and August.

The mean daily temperature in January is 19 degrees Celsius (66 degrees Fahrenheit).

The mean daily temperature in February is 23 degrees Celsius (74 degrees Fahrenheit).

The sun sets around 9:00pm at this time of the year

What to Bring

As it will be summer, light clothing is suggested. Also, bring sunscreen as well as a waterproof jacket in case of reain. Dress is informal and relaxed. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants and nightspots.

Local Currency

New Zealand Dollars. US dollars are generally accepted only in establishments such as souvenir stores. However, credit cards are widely accepted. For small purchases, it is strongly suggested that local currency be used. Foreign currency can easily be exchanged at banks, some hotels and Bureau de Change kiosks, which are found at international airports and most city centers. All major credit cards can be used in New Zealand.

Electricity

Electricity is supplied throughout New Zealand at 230/240 volts, 50 hertz. Most hotels and motels provide 110- volt AC sockets (rated at 20 watts) for electric razors only. Power outlets only accept angled two- or three-pin plugs (as also used in Australia) depending on whether an earth connection is fitted. For this reason, we recommend bringing a universal travel adaptor for electric devices.

Luggage information

One overnight bag and a personal item per person

Documents and Visa Requirements:

A passport that is valid at least 6 months after travel is required. Please bring it with you on this overland tour.

Hotel address:

Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo

State Highway 8, Lake Tekapo, 7945 New Zealand

Phone: 0064 3 680 7000

*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotel listed in this program.

Program Includes for guests:

•One night at Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo or similar (One bedroom Mountain View Villa)

•Transportation by private vehicle with the services of an experienced English-Speaking driver-guide

•One breakfast, two lunches and one dinner (dinner and lunches include a choice of two glasses of house wine, local beer, soft drinks, bottled water, tea, coffee)

•All transfers, sightseeing and entrance fees as per program

Program Excludes for guests:

•Wines (other than when included with meals), liquors, mineral water, morning or afternoon tea, non-filtered coffee

•Meals, other than those shown in the inclusions above

•Gratuities to drivers and guides

•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service

Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.

All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations.

Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty.