Queenstown: Adventure Awaits
Our journey began in Queenstown, where we spent several nights discovering the region. The possibilities are endless—you could easily fill a week with experiences and still leave many sights unseen.
From multi-day treks and walking trails to breathtaking mountain vistas, historic gold mining towns, incredible golf, white-water rafting, the birthplace of bungy jumping, and visits to award-winning wineries, Queenstown truly has it all.
Day 1: Dart River Jetboat Safari
On our first day, we joined the Dart River jetboat safari. We met at the Queenstown office and took a scenic 45-minute bus ride to Glenorchy.
The drive itself is breathtaking. It is easy to see why this valley is the backdrop for so many movies and TV shows. Once there, we checked in, grabbed our water and life jackets, and boarded our boat, with about 12 passengers. The jetboat journeyed upriver, stopping where time and conditions allowed.
In the higher reaches, we paused to admire the local plant life. After the boat ride, we enjoyed a delightful 30-minute walk through a forest, the mossy ground so soft and spongy. We returned to Queenstown as the day concluded.
Day 2: Helicopter Adventure “Over The Top”
The next morning took us to the airport for a helicopter tour with “Over The Top.” Our safety briefing was quick and efficient.
We soared above Queenstown and its majestic mountains, over glacial lakes and snow-capped peaks. Then we landed on a glacier! The silence when the helicopter engine shut off was almost otherworldly.
After photos and a chat with our pilot, we were off again. This time, we flew the length of Milford Sound. Our pilot pointed out hiking tracks and shared the history of the fjord’s creation. The vast Tasman Sea in the distance was truly awe-inspiring.
This tour is perfect for anyone seeking a breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime experience without the physical demands of hiking or climbing.
Day 3: Wine Country
We had a fantastic day tasting our way through the Central Otago Wine region. This area is most well-known for its beautiful Pinot Noir wines. They also produce beautiful aromatics like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc.
Central Otago is New Zealand’s southernmost wine region, and is home to big mountains, pristine lakes, and dramatic skies. There are more than 140 vineyards in the region now compared with just 11 back in 1996.
Days 4 & 5: North by Car through Haast Pass
On the third day, we picked up a rental car and headed north and west via Haast Pass, embarking on the iconic drive along New Zealand’s West Coast.
Our first stop was Lake Moeraki Wilderness Lodge, a stunning retreat. There, guests can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, walking trails, guided hikes, and the hospitality of wonderful hosts Gerry and Anne. We joined Dr. Gerry on a hike to see the endangered Fiordland penguins, and despite inclement weather, it was an unforgettable experience.
Dr. Gerry’s dedication to local conservation—ridding wildlife areas of invasive species to protect native fauna—is truly inspiring. The hosts’ knowledge and warmth made our stay exceptional.
Day 6: Franz Josef Glacier Encounters
Our next destination was Franz Josef, famous for its glacier with the same name. Park officials regulate visitor proximity to the glacier’s base. However, even from the allowed distance, you can hear ice creaking and cracking.
Maps are available with a large variety of trails. Feeling adventurous, we randomly picked one that led us up the opposite side of the river. This offered a unique and still breathtaking view of the glacier.
Day 7: A Day for Hiking
Our day began high above the Southern Alps with a breathtaking helicopter flight to the top of Franz Josef Glacier.
Once we landed, we laced up our crampons and embarked on a thrilling two-hour hike through the glacier’s ever-shifting world — winding through narrow crevasses, marveling at towering ice pinnacles, and navigating surreal frozen formations. The chill in the air only added to the exhilaration. A once-in-a-lifetime experience carved into ice.
Day 8: Franz Josef to Christchurch via Arthur’s Pass
On our last day, we drove from Franz Josef to Christchurch. Our route took us through Arthur’s Pass National Park. The entire drive offered spectacular views. We passed through gorges, over bridges, past train tunnels, and viaducts. The beauty of renting a car is that we were free to stop at our leisure to enjoy these incredible sights.
Of course, no New Zealand road trip would be complete without pausing for sheep as they crossing the road.
It was a journey I’ve arranged for hundreds of travelers, and this time, I experienced it with my spouse, making it even more meaningful.
Final Thoughts
This trip was a perfect blend of high-energy adventure and quiet moments of reflection. From the adrenaline-pumping jetboat ride to the otherworldly silence of a glacier landing, our itinerary highlights the range of ways guests can discover New Zealand’s South Island.
What really stood out was how each experience, whether a planned tour or a spontaneous stop, offered a unique perspective on New Zealand’s incredible landscape and culture.
It was a reminder that the most memorable trips aren’t always about seeing every landmark, but about giving yourself time to connect with the place and its people in a meaningful way.
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