Alpine lakes itinerary

Day 1: Christchurch to Mid-Canterbury

Begin your adventure in Christchurch, the South Island's largest city, where classic English gardens rub shoulders with pop-up pubs and interesting street art. Then travel to Mid-Canterbury, where you'll find snow-capped mountains, crystal clear lakes, and tranquil landscapes. Take a hot-air balloon ride over the magnificent Canterbury Plains in the early morning, or hike to the top of Mount Sunday and take in the panoramic views. If you're a Lord of the Rings lover, enjoy a journey from Christchurch that takes you through Middle Earth to the secluded area of Mt Sunday, where the movie 'Edoras' was filmed.

Day 2: Mid-Canterbury to Lake Tekapo

Set out for Lake Tekapo today, where you can hike or bike among magnificent turquoise waters before visiting the world's largest Dark Sky Reserve, one of New Zealand's best spots to see the Southern Lights. The lovely Church of the Good Shepherd, located on the lake's banks, has an altar window that frames a perfect view of the Southern Alps beyond the lake.

Day 3: Lake Tekapo to Aoraki/Mount Cook

Head to Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand's tallest peak, from Lake Tekapo. Take an easy day hike, a longer climb, or a guided trek to learn more about the area. Take a breathtaking flight over the Southern Alps or get up close and personal with the Tasman Glacier's ever-changing ice environment. Take a day to explore the Alps 2 Ocean cycle track if you have some additional time, since it's a fantastic way to take in the gorgeous mountain vistas. It is New Zealand's longest cycle track, stretching over 300 kilometers. However, because there are various entrance sites, there are shorter trips for people of different abilities.

Day 4: Aoraki/Mount Cook to Wanaka

Travel through turquoise lakes and rivers to Wanaka, a lakeside vacation town. Wanaka, located next to the world-famous Mt Aspiring National Park, is the ideal outdoor paradise. Hiking, biking on and off road, aquatic activities, and flying adventures are all available, no matter what your preferred mode of entertainment is.

Day 5: Wanaka to Queenstown

From Wanaka, go to Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital. Thrill yourself with a wide range of adrenaline activities such as jetboating, bungee jumping, white water rafting, and skydiving, all of which are sure to get your heart racing!