3 Day 2 Night New Zealand’s South Southern Highlights Tour

Overview

Day by day itinerary

1. 1Queenstown to Dunedin via Taieri Gorge⌄

   Begin your adventure with a hotel pickup in Queenstown — New Zealand’s adventure capital. As you depart, journey east through the renowned Gibbston wine region and the rugged Kawarau Gorge, where dramatic landscapes and tales of the gold rush come to life.

   Travel alongside the tranquil shores of Lake Dunstan to Cromwell, a town steeped in gold mining heritage and perfectly situated where the Clutha and Kawarau Rivers meet.

   Take a break for morning tea (available for purchase) at Dunstan House, a lovingly restored 1898 hotel that once welcomed gold prospectors and weary travelers. With its timeless character and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a charming stop on your journey.

   Pause for photos at the historic Ophir Bridge — an elegant 1880 suspension bridge spanning the Manuherikia River. This beautifully preserved structure offers a glimpse into the region’s pioneering past.

   Step back in time in the enchanting ghost town of St Bathans. Discover its well-preserved heritage buildings and admire the surreal Blue Lake, a man-made marvel created from old gold mining operations.

   Arrive at the remote highland station of Pukerangi, where you’ll bid farewell to your guide and board the iconic Taieri Gorge Train. Settle in for a spectacular rail journey through some of New Zealand’s most striking and untouched scenery.

   Enjoy an unforgettable ride on this historic railway, winding through steep canyons, crossing towering viaducts, and passing through hand-cut tunnels — all while taking in breathtaking views of the Otago high country.

   Your adventure concludes at the grand Dunedin Railway Station, an architectural gem and one of New Zealand’s most photographed landmarks. Step off the train and into Dunedin — a city celebrated for its Scottish roots, artistic culture, and stately heritage.

   Overnight: Overnight at Distinction Dunedin Hotel

2. 2Dunedin to Te Anau via the Catlins⌄

   Begin your day with pickups your accommodation before setting out along the stunning southern coastline. As the city fades behind, enjoy the ever-changing scenery of one of New Zealand’s most pristine and untouched regions.

   Take a short, scenic walk to the iconic Nugget Point Lighthouse, dramatically perched above rugged cliffs and sea stacks known as “The Nuggets.” From this breathtaking vantage point, look for fur seals lounging on the rocks below and seabirds gliding on the ocean breeze.

   Wander through lush native forest to one of New Zealand’s most photographed natural wonders. The multi-tiered Purakaunui Falls tumble gracefully through the greenery — a serene spot that perfectly captures the beauty of the Catlins.

   Pause in the tranquil coastal village of Papatowai for lunch and a visit to the delightfully eccentric Lost Gypsy Caravan. This whimsical gallery of handmade kinetic creations and curiosities offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

   Step into the past at Curio Bay, where the remains of a 180-million-year-old petrified forest are revealed at low tide. Keep your eyes peeled for rare wildlife, including yellow-eyed penguins and playful Hector’s dolphins that frequent the area. Alternative: When tide and timing allow, we may visit the awe-inspiring Cathedral Caves — vast sea caverns reached via a short forest and beach walk (entry fee applies).

   Enjoy a brief stop in Invercargill, the southernmost city in New Zealand.

   Reach Te Anau in the early evening and settle into your central accommodation. Set beside the shimmering waters of Lake Te Anau and bordering Fiordland National Park, this charming lakeside town is the ideal base for your next adventure with Cheeky Kiwi Travel.

   Overnight: Overnight at Distinction Te Anau Hotel

3. 3Te Anau to Queenstown via Milford Sound⌄

   Your adventure begins in the peaceful lakeside town of Te Anau, nestled beside New Zealand’s second-largest lake. Enjoy a brief exploration and the chance to spot native birdlife before travelling to Te Anau Downs — the starting point of the world-famous Milford Track. Here, your guide will share fascinating stories of the area while you take in breathtaking lake and mountain views.

   Entering the heart of Fiordland National Park, we make our first major stop at Eglinton Valley. Shaped by ancient glaciers, its sweeping plains and towering peaks create an unforgettable introduction to the wild beauty of Fiordland.

   Take a short walk to the tranquil Mirror Lakes, where the reflection of the Earl Mountains dances perfectly across the still surface — a natural mirror that seems almost too beautiful to be real.

   Pause at the serene Lake Gunn, an alpine gem surrounded by lush beech forest and majestic peaks. It’s an ideal spot for photos and a moment to absorb the quiet grandeur of Fiordland’s wilderness.

   Follow the path of the rushing Hollyford River, admire the tumbling waters of Falls Creek. This thundering cascade showcases the raw, untamed power of the region’s waterways.

   Travel through the remarkable Homer Tunnel, a feat of engineering carved through solid rock by hand. On emerging, prepare to be wowed by the breathtaking views — and, if it’s been raining, countless waterfalls streaming down the cliffs.

   Arrive at the legendary Milford Sound and board your 1.5 hour boutique Cruise Milford experience. A smaller, more personal vessel allows you to get closer to the action — gliding beneath waterfalls, alongside fur seals, and beneath towering granite cliffs.

   After your cruise, begin the journey back with a stop at Pop’s View Lookout. From here, enjoy sweeping views over the Southern Alps and the Routeburn Valley as your guide shares captivating Māori legends tied to the land

   Return to Te Anau for a brief rest stop before continuing toward Queenstown.

   Journey along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, following the winding Devil’s Staircase — a spectacular section of road offering dramatic views and photo opportunities around every bend.

   Continue along the edge of Lake Wakatipu, with multiple stops to capture the breathtaking contrast between the glistening lake and the rugged peaks of The Remarkables mountain range.

   Your journey concludes in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. As you arrive, your guide will point out local highlights and landmarks, welcoming you to this vibrant lakeside destination.

   Meals: Lunch: Picnic Lunch