Join us to savour the tastes, sights, sounds and entertainment of the Bluff Oyster Festival, fresh oysters, and all-day entertainment. This is the ultimate southern discovery tour that takes you to Dunedin, through the heart of the Catlins, Invercargill, Bluff & Stewart Island by plane. Visit Ulva Island’s bird sanctuary stay in central Invercargill, plus much more. Small group numbers, leisurely pace, includes all accommodation and most meals.
Tour starts and finishes in Christchurch.
9.30 am
Pick up from Christchurch approximately 9.30 am enjoy the journey south through farmland stopping at east coast townships on the way to Dunedin. We stay at a hotel in central Dunedin and enjoy a meal together tonight. D
Depart after breakfast to see more scenic points of interest, including a walk at Nugget Point where there are spectacular coastal views. Enjoy time at the Curio Bay Museum, and get a bite of lunch at the café, as we follow the southern coastal route to Invercargill. On reaching Invercargill there is time to explore the Bill Richardson Transport Museum before checking in to our accommodation. In the evening dine out with your group. B.D
Depart after breakfast for the big day out at the Bluff Oyster Festival, we take our own vehicle to Bluff and enjoy the festival all day. Return to our accommodation with a free night to do as you please. B
Today we are catching our plane to Stewart Island, enjoy an afternoon minivan tour exploring landmarks and hear the history of Oban, then spend time exploring, or just absorb the tranquillity of the island. In the evening, we will experience some southern hospitality with dinner at the South Seas Hotel. B D
After breakfast we visit Ulva Island, strolling around the excellent walking tracks amongst predator free podocarp forest, home to many endangered species. Return to Oban town-ship where we will have lunch before flying back to the mainland overnighting in Gore. B D
After breakfast we visit the Hokonui Moonshine Museum which celebrates colourful stories of the area’s past. Enjoy the scenic drive with great views of Lake Wakatipu on the way to Queenstown. A special chance to visit Ayreburn precinct, Queenstown’s latest attraction. Tonight, we stay in lakeside accommodation and enjoy dinner out. B D
After breakfast we travel back to Christchurch arriving by 5.30pm. B