Golden Otago – Heritage, Wildlife & Scenic Rail Journey

Welcome to Queenstown, New Zealand's spectacular alpine resort town, nestled beside Lake Wakatipu beneath the towering Remarkables mountain range.

Famous for its dramatic landscapes and adventure activities, Queenstown also offers beautiful lakeside walks, excellent restaurants and a fascinating history.

Begin your South Island holiday with a ride aboard the Skyline Gondola, travelling high above Queenstown to enjoy panoramic views across the lake, mountains and surrounding valleys.

At the summit, experience the excitement of the Skyline Luge, with five rides included. Wind your way along the purpose-built tracks as you take in the extraordinary alpine scenery.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore Queenstown at your own pace. Wander along the waterfront, browse the shops or enjoy dinner at one of the town's many restaurants.

Included today: Skyline Queenstown Gondola and five Luge rides.

Accommodation: Queenstown – Ramada Hotel & Suites Queenstown Central or similar.

Today, join Remarkable Scenic Tours for a guided small-group journey through some of Central Otago's most beautiful landscapes and historic towns.

Travel across the spectacular Crown Range, stopping at scenic viewpoints before continuing towards the famous Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand's most photographed historic hotels.

Discover Wānaka, where you'll have time to enjoy the relaxed lakeside atmosphere, admire the surrounding mountains and visit the famous Wānaka Tree.

Continue to historic Arrowtown, a charming gold-rush settlement with beautifully preserved buildings, boutique shops and cafés. Explore its fascinating Chinese Settlement and learn about the people who came to the region seeking their fortunes during the 1860s gold rush.

Return to Queenstown, where a memorable evening awaits.

Board the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship for a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm.

Enjoy a delicious gourmet BBQ buffet dinner at the Colonel's Homestead Restaurant, followed by a traditional farm demonstration. Afterwards, relax aboard the steamship as you cruise back across the lake beneath the evening sky.

Included today: Arrowtown & Wānaka Highlights Tour with Remarkable Scenic Tours, TSS Earnslaw cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner.

Accommodation: Queenstown – Ramada Hotel & Suites Queenstown Central or similar.

Meals included: Breakfast and dinner.

Leave Queenstown behind and journey through the remarkable landscapes of Central Otago, a region shaped by gold mining, pioneering settlements and dramatic natural scenery.

Travel through historic towns, wide valleys and rugged countryside towards Pukerangi, where you'll board the Taieri Gorge Railway.

This scenic rail journey takes you through remote landscapes, spectacular gorges and historic railway country, offering a memorable perspective of the region.

Relax aboard the train as you travel through the Taieri Gorge towards Dunedin, passing rugged hillsides, historic engineering landmarks and beautiful rural scenery.

Arrive in Dunedin, often described as the Edinburgh of the Southern Hemisphere.

With its magnificent Victorian and Edwardian buildings, fascinating history and vibrant cultural scene, Dunedin offers a wonderful contrast to Queenstown's alpine landscapes.

Settle into your centrally located accommodation for the next two nights, with the evening free to explore the city.

Included today: Guided Queenstown to Pukerangi journey with Cheeky Kiwi Travel and Taieri Gorge Railway journey to Dunedin.

Accommodation: Dunedin – Scenic Hotel Dunedin City or similar.

Meals included: Breakfast.

Spend today exploring the rich cultural heritage and historic character of Dunedin.

Begin with a visit to the beautiful Dunedin Chinese Garden, a peaceful retreat designed in the traditional style of the gardens of Jiangnan, China.

Wander among its tranquil courtyards, ornamental ponds and elegant architecture while learning about the city's longstanding Chinese heritage.

Continue to Olveston Historic Home, one of New Zealand's most beautifully preserved historic residences.

Built in the early 1900s for the Theomin family, this grand home offers a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle of a wealthy Dunedin family during the Edwardian era.

During your guided tour, discover its richly decorated rooms, original furnishings, fine artworks and remarkable collection of international treasures.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore Dunedin. Visit the magnificent railway station, wander through the historic city centre or enjoy the cafés and shops around the Octagon.

For those interested in wildlife, an optional visit to the Otago Peninsula can be arranged, where the rugged coastline is home to a remarkable variety of seabirds, including the northern royal albatross.

Experiences today: Dunedin Chinese Garden and guided Olveston Historic Home tour.

Accommodation: Dunedin – Scenic Hotel Dunedin City or similar.

Meals included: Breakfast.