Excursion Overland experience: grand south island discovery tour at Wellington

Experience the very best of New Zealand’s South Island on this immersive overland journey from Wellington to Port Chalmers. Begin with panoramic viewpoints in the capital before flying to Christchurch for a blend of city highlights and a scenic gondola ride. Travel through the Canterbury Plains to the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, where a breathtaking Grand Traverse scenic flight reveals glaciers, alpine peaks, and remote wilderness from above. Continue with an off-road 4WD adventure into the high country, followed by a gourmet regional dining experience. Conclude along the dramatic Otago coastline with a visit to the iconic Moeraki Boulders before rejoining your ship - having discovered a spectacular combination of landscapes, culture, and unforgettable experiences by land and air.

01MIDLWLG-A Overland Experience: Grand South Island Discovery

Duration: 3 Days/2 Nights

Departs from: Wellington- at approx. 8:45am

Re-join ship: Port Chalmers (Dunedin) - at approx. 5:00pm

Reserve by: At least 90 days prior to sailing

IMPORTANT NOTE

This Overland Experience is a small group luxury tour, providing bespoke cultural and sightseeing experiences. We limit the tour to a small group in order to ensure your experience is a high-quality one. Spots are available on a first come, first serve basis. If the program fills up, you'll be accommodated on a space-available basis. Advanced booking is required at least 90 days prior to sailing date via Silversea Reservations. We suggest booking early to secure your spot(s).

Please be advised that a minimum number of participants is required for this program to run as described. In rare cases when the minimum number of participants is not met, Silversea reserves the right to offer the program at an increased rate based on private arrangements or to cancel your specific departure for a refund. The self-cancellation fee, unless otherwise advised, is 90 days or sooner to initial sailing date at the rate of 100% program fare per person. The payment for your Overland Experience is due in full on the same date as your final payment due for your cruise. Per Silversea's general payment terms, bookings made within 120 days of sailing require full payment within seven days of booking or sooner.

All Overland Experiences are non-transferable and non-refundable within 120 days of sailing, with the exception of cancellation by Silversea. Our family-friendly land programs require adult accompaniment of any guests under the age of 18. All Overland Experiences are owned by independent contractors, and Silversea makes no representations and assumes no responsibility for the services provided by these operators. Silversea and our local operators make every effort to ensure your land program runs as described. Our local operators reserve the right to modify tour sequence, sites visited and venues mentioned due to operational reasons.

VISA INFORMATION

Please check with your travel professional for details regarding visa requirements for New Zealand. It is the responsibility of each guest to obtain all appropriate visas before cruising.

LOCAL CURRENCY

The local currency is New Zealand Dollar; credit cards are accepted; local ATMs are available in most locations visited.

FULL DESCRIPTION

DAY ONE – Wellington/ Christchurch

Disembark your ship in Wellington and meet your driver-guide for a scenic introduction to New Zealand’s vibrant capital. Travel along the picturesque waterfront and through the lively Oriental Bay area before ascending to the summit of Mount Victoria, where sweeping panoramic views stretch across the city skyline, harbour, and surrounding hills.

Flight to Christchurch

Following your city orientation, enjoy a scenic drive to the airport for your flight to Christchurch.

Upon landing in Christchurch, meet your South Island guide and transfer to a local restaurant for a leisurely late lunch. Savour fresh, seasonal flavours that offer a delicious introduction to the region’s renowned food and wine scene.

Christchurch Gondola Experience

In the afternoon, experience one of Christchurch’s most iconic attractions - the Christchurch Gondola. Ascend the Port Hills for breathtaking panoramic views across the Canterbury Plains, Lyttelton Harbour, and, on clear days, the distant Southern Alps. Take time to explore the summit and fully appreciate the spectacular landscape.

City Orientation & Evening at Leisure

Descend and continue with a short drive through Christchurch, often referred to as the “Garden City,” where historic charm meets modern regeneration. Pass key landmarks and green spaces before arriving at your hotel for check-in. In the evening, enjoy a refined three-course dinner at the hotel restaurant, marking a memorable start to your South Island journey.

Dinner & Overnight Accommodation at the Fable Chrsitchurch Hotel. Christchurch.

DAY TWO- Christchurch/Tekapo

Scenic Departure from Christchurch

After breakfast and check out, depart Christchurch and begin a scenic journey north across the Canterbury Plains toward the charming rural town of Ashburton. After a brief stop, continue through picturesque countryside to the artisan village of Geraldine.

Gourmet Stop in Geraldine

Enjoy a delightful lunch at the renowned Barkers of Geraldine, followed by time at leisure to explore the village’s boutique shops and local specialties. The journey then continues inland toward the breathtaking alpine landscapes of Lake Tekapo, with a photo stop at the historic St. Thomas’ Anglican Church.

Flightseeing over the Southern Alps

An unforgettable highlight awaits at Tekapo Airport, where you will embark on a 45-minute fixed-wing scenic flight (weather permitting). Soar above the dramatic Southern Alps, taking in awe-inspiring views of glaciers and Aoraki / Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, as well as the vast Tasman Glacier.

Please note that this flight is subject to weather conditions, and schedules or routing may be adjusted accordingly to ensure guest safety.

Arrival at Lake Tekapo

Upon landing, rejoin your coach for a short transfer to Lake Tekapo. Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, beautifully set against the lake’s turquoise waters, before continuing to your accommodation at Peppers Blue Water Resort.

After time to relax and admire the striking alpine surroundings, conclude the day with a refined dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.

Dinner & Overnight Accommodation at Peppers Bluwater Resort.

DAY THREE- Lake Tekapo/Riverstone Kitchen (Oamaru)/Port Chalmers

Scenic 4WD tour deep into Lake Tekapo's natural landscape

After breakfast and check-out, embark on a scenic 4WD tour deep into Lake Tekapo's natural landscape

Take a 4WD vehicle and depart for a scenic drive that takes you deep into the legendary natural landscapes of Lake Tekapo. Discover towering mountains, glaciers, river crossings, and incredible scenery whilst learning about the unique geology, ecology, and history that comprises this part of New Zealand's South Island.

Drive to Oamaru

Travel the scenic stunning landscape to nearby Oamaru (Riverstone Kitchen) for a gourmet lunch at a local restaurant. At Riverstone also enjoy the Gardens, replica castle and shops at Riverstone Kitchen.

Stop at Koekohe Beach to stroll on the beach and marvel at the giant Moeraki Boulders

After lunch, board the coach to continue to Koekohe Beach and marvel at the giant Moeraki Boulders- these giant Moeraki Boulders are scattered across the beach. Each of these enigmatic, spherical boulders weighs several tons, and are up to 6.5 feet (about two meters) in height. Scientists explain the boulders as calcite concretions formed about 65 million years ago. According to Maori legend, the boulders are gourds washed ashore from the great voyaging canoe, Araiteuru, when it was wrecked upon landfall in New Zealand hundreds of years ago.

Transfer to Port Chalmers

Leaving Keokohe Beach, re-board your private coach for the approximately two-hour drive to Port Chalmers, via Dunedin for a short city sights tour tucked into a sheltered harbour on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island. The harbour is rich in heritage, and renowned for its wildlife.

Transfer to the pier and your ship

Upon arrival at Port Chalmers, transfer to the pier and embark the ship.

Please note: This description is a general overview of the highlights of this program. The local Silversea representative will do everything possible to ensure that all of the sites described here are visited, though the tour sequence and specific sites mentioned is subject to change. Closure of some sites due to local or national holiday observances, flight schedules or other factors may affect the program, and the local operator reserves the right to substitute other sites if necessary.

This Mid-Voyage Overland Experience involves a moderate amount of off-road driving and a moderate amount of walking for approximately 1.08 miles (about 1.75 kilometres), at times over uneven, natural, and snowy surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate. This tour is not suitable for guests with neck and/or back problems, guests with heart and/or respiratory conditions, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear warm, comfortable clothing in layers with flat, closed-toe walking or hiking shoes, and bring sun protection, a weatherproof jacket, insect repellent, any necessary medication from the ship. Guests must carry their passports and ship's ID at all times. Scenic flights are subject to weather conditions; in the event of adverse weather, the programme will be reviewed and adjusted accordingly. For safety reasons, weight restrictions apply on scenic flights, and guests weighing more than 120 kg may not be permitted to participate. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Due to prevailing weather conditions, the tour sequence, scenic flights, timings, and itinerary are subject to change without prior notice. A signed waiver is required to participate on this tour. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Programme Includes:

• 1-night overnight stay in a King Room at the Fable Christchruch Hotel - Christchurch
• 1-night overnight stay in a One Bedroom Mountain View Room at the Peppers Blue Water Resort - Tekapo
• Two breakfasts, Three lunches and two dinners, with drinks included
• All sightseeing and transfers as per itinerary
• 4WD vehicle for Lake Tekapo wilderness experience
• 45–50 minute scenic fixed-wing flight
• Ashburton and Geraldine scenic stops
• Riverstone Kitchen gourmet lunch
• Visit to Moeraki Boulders at Koekohe Beach

Not Included:

Any meals and drinks not specified above, gratuities to drivers and tour guides, laundry, telephone calls, cancellation insurance, and other personal items.