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Day 1 Arrive Queenstown
Welcome to New Zealand! Upon arrival in Queenstown we have included a transfer to your hotel. With the majestic Remarkables Ranges and Lake Wakatipu at your doorstep, it’s no wonder Queenstown is known for its adventure activities. Of course, you don’t need to be an adrenaline junkie to appreciate the town’s appeal. There is plenty available to those wishing to relax and indulge, from the fine wines of the region to the many shops lining Queenstown’s streets. The best mountain views are to be had at the Skyline Gondola, which has a panoramic restaurant overlooking the town, and Lake Wakatipu, where travelers enjoy scenic cruises on a historic steamboat.
Day 2 Milford Sound Cruise and Flights with Lunch
Explore the Milford Sound from both air and water by boarding a plane for a scenic 40-minute flight over the Southern Alps and then transferring to the Southern Discoveries Visitor Centre for a cruise. Ride the full length of the fjord to the Tasman Sea to stand in awe of dramatic landscapes, and keep your camera handy to capture wildlife photos of seals, dolphins and penguins when in season. An informative commentary is provided as part of the cruise, and the wheelhouse is open to join and speak with the skipper. Complimentary lunch, tea and coffee are also provided. The return flight back to Queenstown takes a different path, ensuring you see new and different scenery before landing back at Queenstown Airport.
Day 3 Queenstown Skyline Gondola & Zip-lining
Today is a day for family adventure! Just a five-minute walk from the center of Queenstown you’ll find the Skyline Complex, home to the Skyline Gondola and the best views in the region. Take in Coronet Peak, the Remarkables, and Lake Wakatipu as you glide up to the top of Bob’s Peak. Then, enjoy a rush of adrenaline as you fly down six gravity-fed zip-lines with the help of expert guides. They’ll be on hand to not only keep you safe, but to give you unique insight into the surrounding environment on both a local and global scale.
Day 4 Dart River Wilderness Funyak Safari into Mt Aspiring National Park
Today you’ll travel by jet boat to the upper part of the Dart River, then at your own pace paddle downstream on a Funyak safari. Delight in a lovely wilderness lunch among beech trees and rock pools, then embark on a fun 4WD tour to take in magnificent Glenorchy scenery.
Day 5 Half-day Arrowtown and Macetown 4WD tour
This morning brings your family the opportunity to discover New Zealand’s gold mining past with visits to Arrowtown and Macetown. Traveling in your very own 4WD vehicle, you’ll follow the Arrow River to the historic Chinese Settlers Village and the film location of the Ford of Bruinen in Lord of the Rings before continuing to Macetown. Getting there is half the fun, as you’ll travel through a pretty river gorge, past derelict huts and an old homestead along the way. Explore the gold mining settlement and learn the history of Needham’s Cottage, then on your way back to Arrowtown try your hand at gold panning in the river. Return to Queenstown and enjoy a final relaxing evening.
Day 6 Depart Queenstown
Your incredible New Zealand adventure comes to an end today as we transfer you to the airport to begin the journey home.