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Tour · APT · 7 nights

Southern Escape

  • Iconic TranzAlpine train journey through the Southern Alps
  • Cruise on the pristine waters of Milford Sound/Piopiotahi
  • Stay in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
From
$4,795 pp twin share
$7,195 pp solo share
7 nights
Enquire
Departs 17 October 2026 Returns 27 May 2029
Duration7 nights
OperatorAPT
StyleTour
HighlightDiscover the stunning South Island of New Zealand, from glacier country to Queenstown, Milford Sound, and Aoraki/Mount Cook
Ride the iconic TranzAlpine train through the Southern Alps. Cruise on Milford Sound/Piopiotahi and stay in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Explore Queenstown, the adventure capital, and enjoy a gourmet lakeside dinner

See the very best of New Zealand’s stunning South Island. Visit the scenic wonders of glacier country, Queenstown, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, Dunedin, Aoraki/Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo/Takapo.

When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs
17 October 2026
Returns 27 May 2029
Returns
27 May 2029
Duration
7 nights
From pp twin share
$4,795 pp
From pp solo cabin
$7,195 pp
  • 17 Oct 2026 - 24 Oct 2026
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 24 Oct 2026 - 31 Oct 2026
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 14 Nov 2026 - 21 Nov 2026
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 21 Nov 2026 - 28 Nov 2026
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 28 Nov 2026 - 05 Dec 2026
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 05 Dec 2026 - 12 Dec 2026
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 16 Jan 2027 - 23 Jan 2027
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 23 Jan 2027 - 30 Jan 2027
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 30 Jan 2027 - 06 Feb 2027
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 13 Feb 2027 - 20 Feb 2027
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 20 Feb 2027 - 27 Feb 2027
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 27 Feb 2027 - 06 Mar 2027
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 13 Mar 2027 - 20 Mar 2027
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 20 Mar 2027 - 27 Mar 2027
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 27 Mar 2027 - 03 Apr 2027
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 03 Apr 2027 - 10 Apr 2027
    from $5,095 pp twin share / $7,595 pp solo *
  • 10 Apr 2027 - 17 Apr 2027
    from $4,995 pp twin share / $7,495 pp solo *
  • 17 Apr 2027 - 24 Apr 2027
    from $4,995 pp twin share / $7,495 pp solo *
  • 24 Apr 2027 - 01 May 2027
    from $4,995 pp twin share / $7,495 pp solo *
  • 08 May 2027 - 15 May 2027
    from $4,795 pp twin share / $7,195 pp solo *
  • 12 Sep 2027 - 19 Sep 2027
    from $5,195 pp *
  • 19 Sep 2027 - 26 Sep 2027
    from $5,195 pp *
  • 26 Sep 2027 - 03 Oct 2027
    from $5,195 pp *
  • 03 Oct 2027 - 10 Oct 2027
    from $5,295 pp *
  • 10 Oct 2027 - 17 Oct 2027
    from $5,295 pp *
  • 24 Oct 2027 - 31 Oct 2027
    from $5,295 pp *
  • 31 Oct 2027 - 07 Nov 2027
    from $5,295 pp *
  • 14 Nov 2027 - 21 Nov 2027
    from $5,295 pp *
  • 21 Nov 2027 - 28 Nov 2027
    from $5,295 pp *
  • 28 Nov 2027 - 05 Dec 2027
    from $5,295 pp *

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.

Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Day by day

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Arrive Christchurch

    Arrive in Christchurch, a picturesque city known for its English influence, incredible natural surroundings, and lively local attractions. Tonight, meet your Tour Director and enjoy dinner with your fellow travellers.

  2. 2

    Christchurch, TranzAlpine Train, Fox Glacier

    Today begins with an Insider Experience. Later, take a scenic drive along the West Coast. This stunning region is home to the Franz Josef/Waiau and Fox Glaciers, as well as spectacular lakes and rainforests.

    Insider Experience – Ride the iconic TranzAlpine train to Arthur’s Pass

    Journey through the heart of the Southern Alps, passing dramatic gorges, alpine rivers, and lush beech forests aboard the iconic TranzAlpine train. This scenic rail journey offers breathtaking views and a relaxing way to experience one of New Zealand’s most spectacular landscapes.

  3. 3

    Fox Glacier, Queenstown

    A stunning drive across Haast Pass brings you to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital. Here, enjoy an Insider Experience.

    Insider Experience – Bask in idyllic views at Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview

    Relax and unwind in your room, which boasts sublime views of Lake Wakatipu and the snow-capped peaks of The Remarkables. You’ll be just a short stroll from Queenstown’s vibrant centre, allowing you to explore and make the most of all that this lively resort town has to offer. Whether it's great food and wine, shopping or adventure that you're after, Queenstown has something just for you.

  4. 4

    Queenstown

    Today is free for you to spend at leisure. You’ll find plenty to see and do around Queenstown, from thrilling adventures through to simply relaxing and soaking in incredible views. Perhaps choose one of our exciting Enhance Your Journey options (additional expense). This evening, enjoy your Insider Experience.

    Insider Experience – Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dining Savour a gourmet lakeside dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm, reached by a vintage steamship across Lake Wakatipu. Gain an insight into life on a high-country New Zealand farm.

    Enhance Your Journey – Million Dollar Cruise Glide across the mystical waters of Lake Wakatipu, keeping your eyes peeled for local bird life as well as enormous trout, which swim in the lake’s waters.

    Enhance Your Journey – Shotover Jet Boat Ride Those feeling adventurous can head out on a thrilling jet boat ride, roaring through narrow river canyons just centimetres from sheer rock walls.

    Enhance Your Journey – Wine Sampler Tour Venture through New Zealand's southernmost wine region as you sample a selection of vintages from the local vineyards and wineries.

  5. 5

    Queenstown, Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, Te Anau

    Follow The Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu to the incredible Fiordland National Park, where an Insider Experience awaits. Later, travel to the lakeside town of Te Anau.

    Insider Experience – Cruise Milford Sound/Piopiotahi and enjoy spectacular scenery

    Journey through the beautiful Fiordland National Park on your way to magnificent Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Once you arrive, set sail on a cruise along the full length of its pristine waters, basking in all the natural wonders you encounter.

  6. 6

    Te Anau, Dunedin

    Journey through the rugged countryside of Southland before arriving in Dunedin for a city tour. This picturesque city is known as the wildlife capital of New Zealand, where you can spot sea lions, fur seals, rare penguins and the world’s only mainland-breeding albatross colony. After being settled by Scots in 1848, the city has retained its Gaelic roots with its stunning Gaelic-inspired architecture, performances of the haggis ceremony and the finest-tasting whisky in the country.

  7. 7

    Dunedin, Aoraki/Mount Cook

    See the Moeraki Boulders/Kaihinaki and visit the charming town of Oamaru. Journey to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park for a special Insider Experience. You may choose to enhance your journey with an amazing option on offer. Tonight, enjoy another special Insider Experience.

    Insider Experience – Farewell Dinner at The Hermitage's Alpine Restaurant Centrally located in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, The Hermitage’s Alpine Restaurant serves delicious meals crafted from fresh, seasonal produce. The spectacular views provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience.

    Insider Experience – Stay in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Traverse the glorious alpine landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and take in the spectacular surrounds as you pass towering mountains and glacier-fed rivers. Stay the night surrounded by sweeping views of New Zealand’s highest peak.

    Enhance Your Journey – Glacier Explorer Cruise Step aboard a MAC boat for an up-close encounter with stunning icebergs on the terminal lake of the Tasman Glacier. Surrounded by the dramatic alpine landscape of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, you’ll glide across the milky-blue waters while learning about the glacier’s history, geology, and ongoing changes (additional expense).

  8. 8

    Lake Tekapo/Takapō, Depart Christchurch

    Journey alongside the shimmering waters of Lake Pukaki before stopping at the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, a perfect photo opportunity with breathtaking lake views of Lake Tekapo/Takapō. Then continue on to Christchurch, where your journey concludes.

What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

  • Ride the iconic TranzAlpine train to Arthur’s Pass.
  • Stunning Views of Lake Wakatipu.
  • Walter Peak Cruise and Dinner.
  • Milford Sound/Piopiotahi Cruise.
  • Stay in the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park at Mount Cook Lodge.
Where you’ll stay

Accommodation

  • Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, Mount Cook Lodge
  • Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier
  • Hotel Elms Christchurch
  • Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau
  • Scenic Hotel Dunedin City
  • Two Nights, Copthorne Hotel & Apartments Queenstown Lakeview
From the operator

Common questions about this voyage

How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 8 days and 7 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 17 Oct 2026 and 27 May 2029, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Can I travel solo?
Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
Ready to lock in?

Book this tour

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

Enquire about this tour
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Our Social Getaways are small-group holidays designed especially for over-60s Australians who want the freedom of a great trip without the work of planning every detail. A Travel at 60 host travels with the group, the operator handles the logistics, and you get to focus on the bit that matters — the people, the places, and the stories you'll bring home.

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  • Real itineraries, not whirlwind tours — comfortable transfers, breathing room, and the “off the beaten track” stops the big bus tours skip.

Want to talk it through? Call 1300 414 198 7 days a week, Queensland time, and one of our consultants will walk you through it.

— The team at Travel at 60

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From (twin) $4,795 pp
From (solo) $7,195 pp
Enquire