
6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 15 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch worth booking?
6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch is a 144-hour experience in Christchurch, New Zealand, from $3,290 per person. It scores 63 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 15 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 63 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (15)
- Duration
- 144 hours
- From
- $3,290 per person
This signature 6-day tour offers a perfect blend of travel per day covering the majority of top attractions in New Zealand's South Island, optional handpicked activities and accommodations. Experience the best of the South Island without the hassle of planning which attractions to visit, where to stay, what to do, all without driving long distances on your own. The itinerary ensures a relaxed experience. Enjoy the luxury of a private tour for your group. Benefit from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of exciting 9-10 optional activities, like a helicopter ride, TranzAlpine train ride, stargazing, jet boating, a Gondola ride, Kiwi park or Hot Pool Soak, Milford or Doubtful Sound cruise, a tour of Te Anau Glowworm caves, and Guided Kayaking or a Whale Cruise, or a Nature Cruise & an Alpaca farm visit. Choose to finish at Queenstown or Christchurch.
What you get
About this experience
This signature 6-day tour offers a perfect blend of travel per day covering the majority of top attractions in New Zealand's South Island, optional handpicked activities and accommodations. Experience the best of the South Island without the hassle of planning which attractions to visit, where to stay, what to do, all without driving long distances on your own. The itinerary ensures a relaxed experience. Enjoy the luxury of a private tour for your group. Benefit from a knowledgeable guide-driver and a vehicle exclusively for your group throughout the tour. Enjoy the flexibility to choose your own desired activities or opt for a range of exciting 9-10 optional activities, like a helicopter ride, TranzAlpine train ride, stargazing, jet boating, a Gondola ride, Kiwi park or Hot Pool Soak, Milford or Doubtful Sound cruise, a tour of Te Anau Glowworm caves, and Guided Kayaking or a Whale Cruise, or a Nature Cruise & an Alpaca farm visit. Choose to finish at Queenstown or Christchurch.
What's included
Included
- Guide-driver exclusively for your group
- Private transportation
- If any optional activity is canceled by activity provider or unavailable, alternatives are provided
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Scenic Helicopter ride ticket at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Alpaca Farm Tour & Nature Cruise Ticket at Akaroa
- Use of charging cables & emergency rain gear
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Cruise Ticket at Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Glowworm Caves Tour Ticket at Te Anau
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Stargazing Activity Ticket at Lake Tekapo
- Optional: Standard Economy Departure Flight from Queenstown to Christchurch
- On-board WiFi
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Gondola with luge rides & Thrill Jet Boating Ticket at Queenstown
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Guided Kayaking or Whale Watching Cruise Ticket at Kaikōura
- Packaged snacks & chocolates
- Optional ("With Hotels" Option): Accommodation for 5 nights in 4 to 5-star hotels with breakfast
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): TranzAlpine Scenic Train Ticket - Christchurch to Arthur's Pass
- Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Kiwi Park or 1 hour of Private Hot Pool Soak Ticket at Queenstown
- Packaged water bottles
Not included
- Food & Drinks (except 5 x breakfast with "With Hotels" option)
- Travel Insurance
- Anything not described in the inclusions
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Christchurch
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Options you can book
No Hotel, Ticket & Dep Flight
Without Accommodations: This option excludes accommodations. Travelers must book their own accommodation. Date-specific location guidance provided. Without Entry Tickets: This options excludes entry tickets for activities. Travelers book their own desired activities. Timeslot guidance provided. Without Departure Flight: This option excludes departure flight from Queenstown to Christchurch. Tour ends in Queenstown. Pickup included
Ticket | No Hotel & Dep Flight
Without Accommodations: This option excludes accommodations. Travelers must book their own accommodation. Date-specific location guidance provided. With Entry Tickets: Includes Entry Tickets for mentioned 10 activities. Without Departure Flight: This option excludes departure flight from Queenstown to Christchurch. Tour ends in Queenstown. Pickup included
Hotel + Ticket | No Dep Flight
With Accommodations: Includes accommodation for 5 nights in 4 to 5-star handpicked hotels with breakfast based on availability and season. With Entry Tickets: Includes Entry Tickets for mentioned 10 activities. Without Departure Flight: This option excludes departure flight from Queenstown to Christchurch. Tour ends in Queenstown. Pickup included
Hotel + Ticket + Dep Flight
With Accommodations: Includes accommodation for 5 nights in 4 to 5-star handpicked hotels with breakfast based on availability and season. With Entry Tickets: Includes Entry tickets for mentioned 10 activities. With Departure Flight: Includes standard economy departure flight ticket from Queenstown to Christchurch. Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 8 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Waimate Journeys
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Travelers should have their own comprehensive travel insurance
- Following your booking, the operator will get in touch to confirm your preferences, as applicable
- With the "With Tickets" option, traveler(s) may swap any of the included activities for alternatives of interest such as Skydiving, Horse Trekking, Scenic Flights, Swimming with Dolphins, Heli-hiking, Relaxing Spa Treatments, Ziplining, etc., subject to availability, cost differences, and route or schedule feasibility
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 15 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Photo opportunities
10 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Organization
6 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Small groups
3 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
15 verified traveler reviews for 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
The Most Beautiful Places of South Island
What I liked most about this tour was the variety, one day we were Kayaking and the next we were riding a scenic train through the mountains and next we were flying over the glaciers in helicopter. So many unique activities were included and no hidden cost. The accommodation was also taken care of as per our request on bedding preference. I would suggest pack layers as the weather can change quickly specially in Mount Cook and Milford Sound.
via Tripadvisor
Amazing travel in New Zealand South Island
It was an amazing 6 day private travel in New Zealand South Island offered by Waimate Journeys. Based on our input, the itinerary selected was great with stops at key areas and lookout’s during the car travel. Our overall experience was greatly enhanced by the local knowledge and experience of our guide/driver Raghav Panchal who narrated the history, culture and people aspects of each key location we visited and also showed us the places for adventure activities. We were awe struck by the natural beauty and scenery of Queenstown, Fiordland National Park, Akaroa, Arthur’s Pass and other locations. We look forward to another visit to New Zealand in the next years.
via Tripadvisor
A Once in a Lifetime Experience
A beautifully organized and unforgettable tour of New Zealand. From swimming with dolphins in Akaroa to TranzAlpine train ride, everyday offered something unique. Swimming with dolphin was so unreal and one of the best experience. Stargazing at Lake Tekapo and seeing the Milky Way was truly special. Mt Cook impressed us with its helicopter ride and glacier views. Our guide was excellent, friendly, attentive and amazing driver. Which made road trip very comfortable. Choosing swimming with dolphins over nature cruise was the best decision we have made for the trip. I highly recommend this trip to anyone who wants to explore South Island New Zealand with amazing private guide.
via Tripadvisor
Seamless Scenic and Simply Unforgettable
Our Journey from Christchurch to Queenstown was nothing short of extraordinary, and a huge part of that was thanks to our incredible guide, who truly went above and beyond to make the entire trip seamless, comfortable and unforgettable. A day in Akaroa, where we choose swimming with dolphins over nature cruise and that was an absolute once-in-a-lifetime experience. Later, stargazing at Lake Tekapo under the world's darkest clear skies was simply magical. The helicopter ride over the glaciers gave us some of the most jaw-dropping mountain views we've ever seen. One of the best highlight was the unforgettable doubtful sound cruise, where the tranquility and raw beauty of Fiordland left us in awe. Finally returned to Queenstown to relax and unwind in the hot pools - a perfect ending to a perfectly balanced trip of adventure and relaxation. Thanks to Waimate Journeys and our guide for the outstanding guidance and personal touches, it became a trip we'll treasure forever. Highly recommended without hesitation.
via Tripadvisor
Top-notch Service, Breathtaking Views and Memories to Cherish Forever
Exceptional service from our guide RV. Everything was just amazing - the places we visited, the activities we did, and the car. The car was very comfortable with ample legroom and headspace, which was perfect for long drives. It was neat and tidy everyday, stocked with bottled water and delicious snacks. Our guide was extremely welcoming and helpful throughout the trip. We were lucky with the weather and head a no-moon night, which made for incredible stargazing. Seeing the Milky Way with our own eyes was absolutely magical. It was a far better experience than we expected. All credit goes to the Waimate Journeys and our guide RV. They truly made our trip very special.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 144 hours
- Free cancellation
- Non-refundable
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $3,290 to $17,075
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 5
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Waimate Journeys, who run 10 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 58.1.
See everything Waimate Journeys runsWhy this scores 63
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Christchurch.
How much does 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch cost?
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Prices start at $3,290 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Christchurch usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch take?
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Plan for about 144 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Christchurch is not rushed.
Is 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 63 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 15 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable outdoors in Christchurch, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch?
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No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.
Is 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 144-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch?
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Around 5 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Christchurch can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Christchurch and add a light layer if any part of the 144-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Christchurch within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Christchurch?
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On Outty we rank every Christchurch experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include TranzAlpine Train, Arthur's Pass and Castle Hill Day Trip, Mount Cook, Lake Tekapo and Tasman Glacier Tour from Christchurch, Lord of the Rings, Journey to Edoras Day Tour from Christchurch. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Christchurch?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Christchurch?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch?
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Included: Guide-driver exclusively for your group; Private transportation; If any optional activity is canceled by activity provider or unavailable, alternatives are; Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Scenic Helicopter ride ticket at Aoraki/Mount Cook Natio; and Optional ("With Tickets" Option): Alpaca Farm Tour & Nature Cruise Ticket at Akaroa. Not included: Food & Drinks (except 5 x breakfast with "With Hotels" option); Travel Insurance; and Anything not described in the inclusions. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 165 listed pickup locations in and around Christchurch. Be ready about 10 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Christchurch. Standard cancellation terms apply.
What do travelers say about 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch?
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Across 15 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include photo opportunities, the guide, organization. The views and photo stops come up again and again.
What booking options are available for 6 Day South Island New Zealand Private Tour from Christchurch?
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There are 4 options to choose from, including No Hotel, Ticket & Dep Flight, Ticket | No Hotel & Dep Flight, Hotel + Ticket | No Dep Flight, Hotel + Ticket + Dep Flight. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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