The Southern Highlights
Queenstown · Te Anau · Naseby · Dunedin · Oamaru · Mount Cook · Glentanner · Omarama · Wanaka · Hokitika · Punakaiki · Collingwood · Picton · Wellington
Przegląd wycieczki
This 4-week Southern Highlights tour is the ultimate South Island journey for solo travellers seeking variety, nature, and meaningful adventure. Travelling from Queenstown to Wellington, you’ll experience New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes alongside hidden gems and local character.
We begin in Queenstown, then head to Te Anau for three nights in the heart of Fiordland, with time to explore Milford Sound and the region’s wild beauty. From there, we wind through Naseby, a quirky gold-mining town, and on to the heritage streets of Dunedin and Oamaru — rich in wildlife, history, and charm.
Next, we head into the Southern Alps for two nights beneath Aoraki / Mt Cook, before soaking up the lakeside serenity of Wanaka. The West Coast brings rainforest and glaciers, with stops in Fox Glacier and Punakaiki, where rugged coastline meets dramatic geology.
We then head north to the sun-drenched bays of Kaiteriteri and Collingwood, perfect for exploring Abel Tasman National Park and Golden Bay. After two nights in the picturesque port town of Picton, we cross the Cook Strait to finish in the lively capital of Wellington.
Comprising of two- and three-night stays, this tour is designed for a relaxed pace, deep exploration, and the freedom to connect with both place and people — all ZigZag style.
Plan dzień po dniu
Days 1-2 | Free Days
Join your ZigZag tour in the adventure capital of the South, Queenstown.
Queenstown is a vibrant alpine town nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by dramatic peaks, including the aptly named Remarkables and offers something for everyone—whether you’re chasing thrills, seeking relaxation, or simply want to soak in the scenery.
For the adrenaline seekers, Queenstown is your playground. Take the leap at the world’s first commercial bungy jump, experience high-speed spins on a jet boat, go white water rafting or try riverboarding, soar above the mountains on a skydive, or fly through the treetops on a zipline. For something truly unique, don’t miss the wild ride in a semi-submersible “shark” boat, or head off-road with a 4WD adventure into the backcountry.
If you prefer a more relaxed pace, there’s just as much to enjoy. Ride the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak for panoramic views, then perhaps take a paraglide back down. Cruise across the lake aboard the iconic TSS Earnslaw, a 100-year-old coal-fired steamship, or explore Queenstown’s beautiful botanic gardens and waterfront walkways. Nearby Central Otago is one of New Zealand’s top wine regions—join a wine tour and sample world-class pinot noir while taking in stunning vineyard views.
Film buffs can take a day trip to Glenorchy, a picturesque village at the head of Lake Wakatipu and the gateway to many famous Lord of the Rings filming locations. The drive itself is worth it—often called one of the most scenic in the world.
With two days to explore, you could also hire a bike, go fishing, enjoy the local restaurants and cafés, or take a drive up to Deer Park Heights for some of the best views in town (and perhaps spot a few friendly Highland cattle and alpacas).
However you choose to spend your time, Queenstown never disappoints—whether you're ticking off your bucket list or simply enjoying the atmosphere in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful destinations.
Accommodation: Camping (Queenstown)
Meals Included:
Day 1 - None
Day 2 - Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3
This morning we depart Queenstown and begin our journey towards Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. The drive is incredibly scenic from the start, as we follow the shoreline of Lake Wakatipu, winding along cliffside roads with stunning lake and mountain views. We soon reach the Devil’s Staircase, a dramatic zig-zagging section of highway that climbs steeply above the lake and offers panoramic views back across to the Remarkables and Queenstown.
From there, the road opens out as we pass through high country farmland and large commercial deer stations, with towering peaks lining the route. By early afternoon, we arrive in Te Anau, a peaceful lakeside town surrounded by spectacular natural beauty—and our base for exploring the world-renowned Fiordland region.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Te Anau)
Days 4 & 5 | Free Days
Fiordland is a breathtaking wilderness of towering mountains, deep fjords, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforest. Experiencing this natural wonderland is easy, with the glacier-carved fiords of Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound both within reach.
Known as the ‘8th Wonder of the World,’ Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural attractions. Its dramatic, waterfall-draped peaks rise sharply from the dark fiord waters, with the majestic Mitre Peak—one of the country’s most photographed landmarks—standing proudly at its heart.
Further south lies Doubtful Sound, larger and even more remote than Milford. Accessible via a scenic boat ride across Lake Manapouri, Doubtful Sound is best explored on an overnight cruise. Enjoy delicious meals, your own private cabin, and the unforgettable experience of waking to sunrise over this pristine, silent paradise.
Te Anau serves as the gateway to Fiordland and offers a wealth of sightseeing options, from cruises and helicopter flights to 4x4 adventures, guided hikes, kayaking, and scenic seaplane tours. You can even book combined tours to both Milford and Doubtful Sounds. Whichever you choose, this region is sure to become one of your most treasured Kiwi memories.
Accommodation: Camping (Te Anau)
Meals Included:
Day 4 - Breakfast
Day 5 - Breakfast, Dinner
