Top South Island Bus Tours - page 20

Discover the stunning beauty of Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park on this active, small-group day trip from Te Anau. Start your adventure with a peaceful morning boutique cruise showcasing breathtaking cliffs, waterfalls, and lush rainforests. Afterward, embark on a guided walk to Key Summit on the Routeburn Track, where panoramic alpine views await. This full-day experience combines leisurely cruising with invigorating hiking, making it perfect for those who love the outdoors. - Early morning boutique cruise on Milford Sound with Cruise Milford - Guided Key Summit walk on the Routeburn Track with stunning views - Small-group setting with a maximum of 8 guests for a personal experience - Includes return transport, lunch, and local guide commentary

Experience Dunedin’s top cruise-ship attraction with a visit to the stunning Larnach Castle and Gardens, enhanced by a beautiful harbour crossing aboard the Port to Port Ferry. This scenic and informative ferry ride shortens road time and adds an unforgettable experience to your day. This is the only Dunedin experience to incorporate all of these top class attractions as well as the ferry, to shorted your journey and save doubling back, making it truly unique and saving you precious time. Its an easy way to see the best of the city and the peninsula in one seamless, memorable tour. You will finish in Dunedin City, where the driver will point out some of the world class attractions before you depart for free time in the city. You will return back at your own leisure and cost. There are cruise ship shuttles nearby.

Discover Central Otago on this scenic self-guided audio tour drive from Queenstown Airport to Wānaka, tracing routes once travelled by Māori and gold miners. Pass through the Kawarau Gorge, birthplace of bungy jumping, past Gibbston Valley’s vineyards, and the towering Nevis Bluff. End beside the iconic “That Wānaka Tree.” During this two-hour drive, you’ll: • Hear about Bannockburn’s wild gold rush past • Admire Cromwell’s orchards, giant fruit sculpture, and Lake Dunstan’s new landscape • Learn why pinot noir flourishes here, what makes lavender fields glow, and why real fruit ice cream is a summer tradition • Glide past the Pisa Range and through Luggate and Queensberry Blending history, nature, and quirky local stories, this tour turns a simple transfer into an unforgettable journey

Explore Queenstown on a private 4-hour discovery tour combining iconic sights and hidden gems. Begin at Queenstown Gardens, a serene lakeside oasis, then head to Skyline Queenstown Lookout for dramatic panoramic views. Visit Arrowtown, a charming gold-mining village with cobblestone streets and local shops. Continue to Kawarau Bridge Lookout, the birthplace of bungee jumping, offering thrilling views of turquoise waters and rugged cliffs. End at Lake Hayes, where mirrored reflections of surrounding peaks create a picture-perfect finale. Fully customizable, this private tour blends alpine scenery, history, and local life, providing a relaxed and unforgettable half-day journey through Queenstown’s most scenic and memorable spots.

Step into Middle-earth on a private full-day tour from Queenstown, exploring landscapes from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Travel along Lake Wakatipu to Glenorchy, a stunning village framed by the Southern Alps, known for filming Isengard and Lothlórien. Continue to Paradise Valley with its forests, braided rivers, and snow-capped peaks, spotting locations from LOTR, The Hobbit, and Narnia. Visit Twelve Mile Delta, where Frodo and Sam watched the Oliphaunts, and Arrowtown, a historic gold-rush village that doubled as Rohan. Conclude at Lake Hayes Lookout, with tranquil waters reflecting dramatic mountains. Fully customizable, this private tour blends cinematic magic and breathtaking scenery for movie lovers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Explore New Zealand’s Southern Alps on a private full-day tour from Queenstown to Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo. Travel along scenic Lindis Pass, crossing ochre hills and mountain plains, then stop at Lake Pukaki, whose glacier-fed waters perfectly reflect Aoraki / Mount Cook. Continue to Mount Cook Village for alpine walks, the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, or photo opportunities. Visit Lake Tekapo, famous for its turquoise waters and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, with optional relaxation at Tekapo Springs. Return to Queenstown through picturesque high-country landscapes. Fully customizable, this private tour offers photographers, nature lovers, and travelers a serene, crowd-free experience of New Zealand’s most breathtaking alpine scenery.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound on a private full-day tour from Queenstown. Travel along Lake Wakatipu into Fiordland National Park, stopping at Te Anau for coffee or snacks. Pause at Mirror Lakes to capture alpine reflections, then traverse Eglinton Valley and Knobs Flat with their glacier-carved plains and forested cliffs. Drive through Homer Tunnel and visit The Chasm, where powerful waters sculpt surreal rock formations. Arrive at Milford Sound for an optional scenic cruise beneath Mitre Peak, spotting dolphins, seals, and towering waterfalls. Fully customizable, this private tour includes photo stops and flexible pacing, offering an unforgettable journey through New Zealand’s wildest and most majestic landscapes.

Christchurch has been voted as one of the best city’s to visit in the world. Since the earthquakes, the city has a real buzz and is very popular. On the tour, I’ll show you all the best parts of our city, port hills and anything you’d love to see! I was born in Christchurch, and have grown up in the city and in the surrounding area. I have been tour guiding around New Zealand since 2012 and even had a stint as a TV Presenter for a farming show on our local network, CTV. On a Scotty B Tour you can rest easy knowing you're going to get great service, I put my name on it! I've travelled to more than 40 countries and I know that meeting & travelling with a local guide can make for a great experience. Our city has been reborn and I want to make sure you have the best experience in our beautiful city and see as much as you can. Both New, old and get you exploring our nature! Get in touch for you want to customise this experience Scotty

Journey from Queenstown to Aoraki Mount Cook on a breathtaking scenic flight that reveals the stunning Southern Alps. Soar over majestic landmarks and glaciers, then land at Mount Cook Airport for a self-guided adventure. Spend up to 5 hours exploring the national park with options to visit The Hermitage Hotel for lunch, the Sir Edmund Hillary Museum, or walk the scenic Hooker Valley Track. With guaranteed window seats and knowledgeable pilots offering insights throughout the flight, this tour perfectly combines awe-inspiring landscapes with the freedom to explore at your own pace. - Round trip scenic flights from Queenstown to Mt. Cook Airport - Up to 5 hours of self-guided exploration in Mt. Cook National Park - Ground transport in Mt Cook to local scenic spots and activities - Guaranteed window seat for every guest - Complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off included

The Christchurch to Queenstown journey takes you from the incredibly flat Canterbury Plains right through to the dramatic mountains of the Southern Alps. The area is out of this world beautiful! This tour gives you the opportunity to absorb the wild beauty, starting in Christchurch you'll travel into the heart of the Mt Cook National Park. After a full day of exploration, on the final afternoon, hop on board the coach to Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital. This is an Independent coach tour, where you travel on a combination of touring coaches and sightseeing services with commentary and/or point to point coaches which may not have commentary. You will be with different people on each part of the tour and different drivers. You have free time to explore on your own and are free to choose where and when to eat, meals are not included unless specified.

A great way to experience the best of Kaikoura's sealife! This two-day tour takes you north from Christchurch to the coastal town of Kaikoura; a bustling township with many cafes, restaurants and shops as well as incredible wildlife. Kaikoura is one of the only places in the world where whales and dolphins can be encountered every day! When you arrive, head out on a magical swimming encounter with Dusky Dolphins. On day 2, experience the world-famous Kaikoura Whale Watch tour before heading down the scenic coast back to Christchurch. This is an Independent coach tour, where you travel on a combination of touring coaches and sightseeing services with commentary and/or point to point coaches which may not have commentary. You will be with different people on each part of the tour and different drivers. You have free time to explore on your own and are free to choose where and when to eat, meals are not included unless specified.

Godley Head is an exciting and picturesque headland at the far end of the Port Hills. From Godley Head, you will be treated to uninterrupted and spectacular views of Lyttelton Harbour, Christchurch and the east coast of the South Island. Rich in history and scattered with remnants of New Zealand’s WWII defences, this is a must-do location for anyone visiting Christchurch. Join us and explore this unique and unforgettable area with one of our friendly local guides. This tour requires no minimum numbers to run. It suits individuals, couples, and small groups looking for a relaxing and exclusive tour. - Track grade: Very easy, 2.5 hrs of walking time - Walking distance: 3-5 km (flexible depending on group ability) - Total elevation gain: ~180 m

This private shore excursion is designed especially for cruise ship passengers, showcasing the spectacular scenery of Christchurch's hills, harbours and beaches. Your day begins with pick-up from Lyttelton Port and time to explore the township's historic streets, boutique shops and vibrant harbour. From there, travel to Evans Pass lookout for sweeping views across Lyttelton Harbour. The journey continues to Sumner Beach, where you'll have time to enjoy the seaside village and waterfront before travelling through New Zealand's second-longest road tunnel to Cass Bay for a relaxing morning or afternoon tea. The tour then follows the harbour to Governors Bay, where you can visit the historic jetty. The final stops are the Sign of the Bellbird and Sign of the Takahe, both offering panoramic views across Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains and Lyttelton Harbour. The tour concludes with your choice of drop-off in Christchurch city centre or back at Lyttelton Port.

Explore the stunning Kaikōura coast on this full-day small-group tour from Christchurch. We'll pick you up from your hotel or a central meeting point, then set off along State Highway 1, where dramatic cliffs, sweeping ocean views, and rolling farmland create the perfect backdrop for a day of adventure. Stop along the way for morning tea before arriving in Kaikōura for lunch. Then stroll the scenic Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, visit seal colonies, or explore the charming township at your own pace. For wildlife enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, upgrade to include a whale-watching cruise, dolphin or albatross encounter, scenic flight, or an eco-zipline adventure. *Please note: Independent third-party providers operate these activities, and availability is not guaranteed, particularly for last-minute bookings. Our standard tour cancellation policy applies. After your Kaikōura adventure, relax on the scenic drive back to Christchurch, where you'll be dropped at your hotel or in the city.

Discover the stunning landscapes of Kaikōura on this private guided day tour from Christchurch. Travel along the picturesque State Highway 1, stopping at iconic sights such as the Ohau Point Seal Colony and the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway. Enjoy a delicious lunch and refreshments en route, with the option to add additional experiences in Kaikoura This tour is ideal for nature lovers and those looking to experience New Zealand's unique wildlife. - Full-day private guided tour with a maximum of 8 travellers for a personalised experience - Take a stroll along the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway - Get up close and personal with New Zealand Fur Seals at Ohau Point Seal Colony - Enjoy local cuisine with Lunch and refreshments included. - Additional experiences can be added in Kaikōura, including: + Whale Watch Kaikōura + Dolphin Encounter + Wings Over Whales Scenic flights + Eco Zip Ziplining *Optional activities are subject to availability and weather conditions.

The Vineyards Nobody Else Can Show You The great wine regions of the world have two kinds of producers — those who sell to tourists and those who sell to collectors. We take you to the second kind. Every vineyard on this tour has been personally handpicked by Aaron. They produce between 800 and 50,000 bottles per year. They do not advertise. Buses cannot reach them. And they do not open their cellar doors to just anyone. Because you are with us, they will open them for you. Choose your own journey through 4 extraordinary venues between Cromwell and the Gibbston Valley. At each one, you will be welcomed not as a tourist but as a serious buyer — by the winemaker, the owner, or a trained sommelier who knows every vine in the vineyard. and because great wine deserves to be enjoyed at home as much as on tour, every single venue can arrange international delivery directly to your door. Arrive home to find the best of Central Otago waiting in your hallway.

Your day begins in the heart of Marlborough with guided visits to two hand-picked tasting rooms, where you’ll sample a range of the region’s acclaimed wines — from bright, zesty Sauvignon Blancs to elegant Pinot Noirs. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the region’s wine history, vineyards, and winemaking styles. At midday, enjoy a leisurely seasonal lunch at Saint Clair, showcasing fresh, regional ingredients and thoughtfully chosen wines available for purchase by the glass. After lunch, take part in a sommelier-curated comparative tasting featuring standout wines from across New Zealand wine country. This guided session highlights the nuances of different regions — from Marlborough to Waipara to Central Otago — offering a deeper understanding of terroir, style, and craftsmanship. To cap off the day, enjoy a sweet final stop at Makana Confections, a local favourite known for handcrafted chocolates, before returning to base.

Your journey begins at the doorstep of your accommodation or port. This amazing scenic tour we will take you through the most beauiful sights of our area. We first drive atop the Port Hills for the best views of Christchurch City, the Southern Alps and Lyttelton Harbour. Learn about the local Māori and European history as we drive around the bays of picturesque Lyttelton Harbour. On this section, we will drive through the Rapaki settlement, home to the Rapaki Marae (traditional Māori meeting house). In Christchruch City we will have stops at the quirky and unique Cardboard Cathedral and Christchurch Arts Centre OR Botanic Gardens (your choice). Next we arrive at the locals favourite beach town of Sumner. Here you can have some free time to walk on the beach and enjoy an ice cream. Upon conclusion of the tour, you will be dropped back at your preferred location. Please note: This tour may run in a different order depending what your start point is.

Set off on a scenic coach journey from Te Anau to the breathtaking Milford Sound, renowned for its towering peaks and cascading waterfalls. Enjoy engaging commentary from local drivers, who share insights about Fiordland's history and wildlife. This day trip includes a memorable cruise through the fiord, showcasing stunning views and opportunities to spot wildlife like dolphins and seals. With glass-roofed coaches and well-timed stops at iconic sights like Mirror Lakes, this tour promises a comfortable and enriching experience in one of New Zealand's most remarkable landscapes. - Full-day coach and cruise experience from Te Anau to Milford Sound - Scenic stops at Mirror Lakes, Eglinton Valley, and more - Wildlife watching opportunities including seals and dolphins - Comfortable glass-roofed coaches for unparalleled views

Discover the best of Christchurch on this unforgettable highlights tour, featuring three of the city's most iconic attractions. Step aboard the heritage Tram, glide along the picturesque Avon River on a traditional punt, and soar above the city on the Christchurch Gondola for spectacular panoramic views. Combining history, scenery, and local charm, this tour is the perfect way to experience Christchurch's top sights in one memorable day.

Kaikōura, whose name translates to ‘eat crayfish’ in English, is a small coastal town often overlooked by tourists. Caught between the Kaikōura Ranges - which in the winter are snowcapped and a sight to behold - and the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean (Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa), this area is truly breathtaking. Known for the wildlife who love to inhabit this part of Aotearoa’s east coast, the town experienced significant damage and seabed uplift following a magnitude 7.8 earthquake in 2016. Almost 10 years on, Kaikōura has come a long way; even being named one of the most beautiful small towns in the world by luxury travel bible, Conde Nast Traveler, in 2023. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, and including a Wildlife Kayak Experience (approximately 3 hours) this journey is one you will never forget.

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s unique West Coast Glacier Country, Franz Josef is only one of two places in the entire world where you can view glaciers surrounded by native alpine forest. As a popular midpoint for those travelling between Christchurch and Queenstown, this 1 way tour showcases the very best of what the Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana) and rugged West Coast have to offer. So why not join as we travel the Great Alpine Highway from New Zealand’s east to west coast. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides and including transfer from Christchurch to Greymouth aboard the world famous TranzAlpine, this journey is one you will never forget!

Nestled on Canterbury’s Banks Peninsula (Te Pataka o Rakaihautū), the charming French influenced village of Akaroa is a popular day trip with Cantabrians and tourists alike. The surrounding bays and the peninsula's distinct shape were created by volcanic eruptions by two now extinct volcanoes, leaving behind a stunning waterfront with sweeping views and spectacular wildlife. It hosts the beauty of being equal parts bustling, tranquil, and picturesque. So why not join us as we explore the waterfront and some of the gorgeous heritage buildings of Akaroa. Including a stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese, you will be driven in comfort by modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget.

Nestled on Canterbury’s Banks Peninsula (Te Pataka o Rakaihautū), the charming French influenced village of Akaroa is a popular day trip with Cantabrians and tourists alike. The surrounding bays and the peninsula's distinct shape were created by volcanic eruptions by two now extinct volcanoes, leaving behind a stunning waterfront with sweeping views and spectacular wildlife. It hosts the beauty of being equal parts bustling, tranquil, and picturesque. So why not join us as we explore the waterfront and some of the gorgeous heritage buildings of Akaroa. Including a stop at Barry’s Bay Cheese, you will be driven in comfort by your modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by your fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides and including a trip to the award winning Giant’s House, this journey is one you will never forget.