New Zealand
Destinations
Christchurch | Hokitika | Franz Josef | Wanaka | Queenstown | Milford Sound
Duration
13 Days, door-to-door
Travel Map
Itinerary
En Route
Enplane for New Zealand (see WALLSabout tip below!).
WALLSabout Tip: We highly recommend booking a one-day or two-day pre-trip extension. These days are relatively low key and include luxury accommodation, breakfast, and light activities for just a few hours of the day so you have plenty of time to rest up for the trip of a lifetime. See your WALLS consultant for details.
Christchurch, New Zealand
Upon arrival into Christchurch, you are met by a WALLSabout representative and transferred to your beautiful hotel in the heart of Christchurch. If you do not come a day or two early, we strongly advise booking flights that land after 9AM and before 1PM wherever possible. Hotel check-in is 2:00 PM. Meet your WALLSabout Program Director in the hotel lobby for start of services at 3:00 PM. At 3:30 PM we depart for a dynamic and informative walking tour of Christchurch. This tour is led by a passionate local guide who will take you on a journey of discovery through laneways, gardens, historic buildings, and landmarks. Along the way you will learn some basic Te Reo (Maori Language) and learn more about Maori and early settler history. Alternatively, if you’re “knackered” from your flight, take the afternoon to catch up on rest. Either way, meet your Program Director for an important trip briefing in the hotel lobby at 6:00 PM followed by welcome dinner.
WALLSabout Tip: Skip the nap, take the walking tour, and go to bed early! The real adventures begin tomorrow!
Accommodation: The George Hotel
Meals: Welcome Dinner
Key Times:
Arthur’s Pass to Hokatika to Franz Joseph
Depart Christchurch early and explore the Southern Alps in style aboard the TranzAlpine train – one of the world’s great train journeys, covering 223 kilometres (139 miles) one-way and taking just under 5 hours. Breakfast and lunch will be served on board and you’ll also have access to an exclusive open-air carriage. Disembark the train and board to our luxury mini coach en route to a one hour walking tour of the Hokatika Gorge! From there we’ll make our way along the West Coast before arriving at our beautiful accommodation, the Te Waonui Forest Retreat in Franz Joseph. Rest and relax before dinner at the hotel.
WALLSabout Tip: Dress in layers and be ready for any weather. Have a daypack handy for short walks and/or anything you’ll need during the day as you will not have access to your roller bag. Our Mini Coach is stocked with snacks and water. Have your mosquito repellent handy for Hokatika Gorge… depending on conditions sand flys could be present. Socks and long pants will win half the battle as they typically go for ankles and wrists first and largely leave other parts of your body alone.
Accommodation: Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Approximate Schedule:
7:00 AM Departure
1:30 PM Hokitika Gorge
5:00 – 6:00 PM Check-in Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Franz Joseph Glacier Experiences & Local Wildlife!
Today you’ll depart on the Choose Your Own Adventure (CYOA) that you selected before the trip! From hiking to Heli and glaciers to crampons, this is going to be one EPIC Day! See your Program Director for details.
In the afternoon, explore the West Coast Wildlife Center and get acquainted with the local flora and fauna of the South Island, including the legendary Kiwi Birds.
Rest up before a beautiful dinner at the Te Waonui Forest Retreat and then a quick evening adventure to discover the glow worms dangling beneath the subtropical ferns. Fall into bed after a full day and get some rest for tomorrow the adventure continues!
WALLSabout Tip: Check the CYOA page for a refresh on what you’ll be experiencing and a reminder on what our operators supply. For example, all the equipment you need for a hike on the glacier is provided if you booked the Glacier Heli Hike as your CYOA but you’ll need some key items, example: sunglasses!
Accommodation: Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Approximate Schedule:
From 7:00 AM Breakfast at accommodation
See your PD for you personalized CYOA schedule for the day!
(Please note CYOA activities are subject to change or cancelation based on weather – all canceled CYOA activities will be fully refunded and alternate experiences are planned)
West Coast View of Mt. Cook / Haast Pass / A Local’s Stop!
Breakfast is available at the hotel before departure to Lake Matheson for a breathtaking morning hike! If we’re lucky, we’ll catch the reflection of New Zealand highest peak, Mt. Cook, reflecting into the still waters. Followed by a short stroll through the majestic Swap Forest of Ship Creek.
Then, say goodbye to the West Coast (for now) as we dive over Haast Pass. Along the way collect photos of Thunder Creek Falls, Blue Pools, The Knick and Lake Hawea. Discover our delightful accommodation perched on the shores of Lake Wanaka. Enjoy a brief respite before dinner. Fall into bed after a full day and get some rest for tomorrow the adventure continues!
WALLSabout Tip: Have your mosquito repellent handy… depending on conditions sand flys could be present. Socks and long pants will win half the battle as they typically go for ankles and wrists first and largely leave other parts of your body alone. Dress in layers and be ready for any weather at our stops as we cross the alps. Have a daypack handy for short walks and/or anything you’ll need during the day as you will not have access to your roller bag. Our Mini Coach is stocked with snacks and water.
Accommodation: Lakeside Apartments Wanaka
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Approximate Schedule:
Get Local Day — Wanaka Tree / Lavender Farm / Winery Tour / Local Art!
Breakfast at Edgewater’s before departing to Lake Wanaka for a breathtaking morning view of “The Wanaka Tree”, followed by a visit to Wanaka Lavender Farm for an autumn stroll. Onward to lunch at Wild Earth & Stoaker with a wine tasting at Misha’s Tasting Room. The afternoon includes shopping in the town of Wanaka while the rest of the afternoon / evening is at your leisure. Rest up, because tomorrow things get a little extreme!
WALLSabout Tip: Today is the day to immerse yourself in the local culture of the Southern Alps. Taste and sample food and drinks and feast on the sights and sounds of working farms, wineries, and artisan markets — not to mention the trendy boutiques of Wanaka. Remember to make dinner reservations as the afternoon/evening is at your leisure!
Accommodation: Lakeside Apartments Wanaka
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Approximate Schedule:
Mtn Adventure Day! — Land Cruisers / Mtn Town / Mtn Culture!
At 8:30 AM depart Edgewater’s to AJ Hackett Bungey (the world’s first commercial Bungey Jumping establishment). Elect to throw yourself off the Kawarau Bridge dangling by only an elastic line or simply elect to watch your new friends jump. You can even opt to dunk your head in the river 141 feet below! Next up, explore the charming mining town of Arrowtown (be ready for some boutique shopping). Revive your adrenal glands as you board our custom 4×4 for an adventure drive up the Arrow River Canyon and iconic filming locations from “Lord of the Rings”. We’ll stop to enjoy lunch at Canyon Brewing. Next up, white-knuckle the boat handles during the world famous Shotover Jet-boat experience, powered by the custom supercharged twin V8 engines that will have you racing up the rapids at 90 kph, while performing gravity defying stunts within a hair’s breadth of the awe-inspiring cliff faces!
Finally, enter the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown, where you’ll discover our luxury property awaiting in the heart of town. Check-in and freshen up before catching dinner at our accommodation. Take your vitamins before bed, because you’re going to need more adrenaline tomorrow!
WALLSabout Tip: Smile for the camera, you’re going to remember today’s adventures for the rest of your life!
Accommodation: QT Hotel, Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
CYOA Queenstown — From Shopping to Sky Diving - it’s your choice!
With so many activities to choose from, we had to empower you with CHOICE! Review www.WALLSabout.com/
WALLSabout Tip: Review your selection of CYOA and enjoy your day!! Don’t forget to book Dinner On Your Own (DYOA) before leaving the states as reservations fill up fast in Queenstown.
Accommodation: QT Hotel, Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast
Fiordland National Park — Words Fall Short
Enjoy a morning at your leisure before departing Queenstown en route to Te Anau stoping for lunch at Jack’s Point and at the incredible vistas of Devils’ Staircase and Athols before arriving on the tranquil and romantic shores Te Anau. Checkin to our beautiful lakeside accommodation before boarding into our scenic flight to the most remote and dramatic portions of Fiordland National Park. Dinner to follow at Redcliff. While in town, be sure to take the short walk to visit to location where Benjamin took one of his most collected images Original Blues.
WALLSabout Tip: Dress in layers and be ready for any weather at our stops. Have a daypack handy for short walks during our stops. Our Deluxe Mini Coach is stocked with snacks and water.
Accommodation: Fiordland Lakeview Hotel (suites), Te Anau
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Milford Sound Cruise
Depart early aboard our Mini Coach en route to the spectacular Milford Sound. Then board our chartered boat for a cruise through the fiord as it teams with wildlife including seals and dolphins! Gaze up in every direction, thousands of feet of granite rock line the fiord that is also thousands of feet deep. Stare in amazement as waterfalls plunge off the hanging valleys in all directions. Upon return to shore, we’ll catch lunch at the Pio Pio Café before pressing onward to Mirror Lakes, Pops View, Gertrude Valley Lookout, Chasm Fall and finally arrive back at our luxurious accommodation in Te Anau. Enjoy the afternoon at you leisure before dinner at The Fat Duck.
WALLSabout Tip: Dress in layers and be ready for any weather at our stops. Have a daypack handy for short walks during our stops. Our Deluxe Mini Coach is stocked with snacks and water.
Accommodation: Fiordland Lakeview Hotel (suites), Te Anau
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Farewell Dinner — Queenstown
Capture sunrise photos from your porch or explore the famous vantage points right our your door on the largest freshwater lake in Australiasia! Back in Queenstown, we’ll check in at our final accommodation before enjoying an afternoon at your leisure (consider booking a hot soak with a view of the Remarkables!) before our Farewell Dinner to remember at the top-rated restaurant and venue, Nest!
WALLSabout Tip: Dress in layers and be ready for any weather. Have a daypack handy for short walks during our stops. Our Deluxe Mini Coach is stocked with snacks and water.
Accommodation: Kamana Lakehouse, Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Bid Farewell to New Friends
After breakfast at our accommodation, depart Queenstown en route to your international flight home or your next adventure.*
*Ask your WALLS Consultant about option extensions!
WALLSabout Tip: Remember to tip your Program Director! All tips to be paid in USD. Program director tips typically range from $25-35 USD per person / per day for exceptional service. Plan ahead with the concierge team if you’d like to stay a few extra day in Queenstown or an optional extension!
Meals: Breakfast
En Route Home
We wish you safe travels home – or choose one of our signature extensions.
Now Booking
2025
We’re a friendly bunch
Dial this number to speak with a travel pro.
(276) 696-6808
What's Included & Excluded
Price Includes
- ALL accommodations
- Meals listed on your itinerary
- ALL flights listed on your internal air package
- Full concierge assistance before your trip
- Services of veteran driver guides (where applicable)
- Full services of a WALLSabout™ Program Director during the primary tour (not during extensions)
- Fully guided activities/meetings/exchanges (including all park and entrance fees) as noted in the itinerary
- Complimentary Choose Your Own Adventure (example: a glacier walk in included, a heli-glacier tour is NOT included)
- All airport transfers
- Coffee/tea/soft drinks/water
- Local wine at included dinners (1 - 2 glasses)
- Local bottled water during sightseeing
- All lodge taxes and service charges
- Porterage of one carry on size bag (15 lbs) and one checked sized bag (40 lbs - max size 12"x17"x26")
- Laundry service (midway through your tour - 20 garment max)
- Gratuities for lodge staff, waitstaff, airport transfers, and porters (during your primary tour - not during optional extensions or excursions)
Price Excludes
- Personal expenses / items not listed as "included"
- Meals not listed in the itinearary
- Alcoholic beverages / speciality beverages not listed as "included"
- Optional activities / excursions
- International airfare
- Airfare between itineraries
- Guide / Program Director Gratuities
- Travel Insurance
- Excess baggage charges
- Visas/passports
- Vaccinations / Covid Tests
- Alternative Choose Your Own Adventure Activity (example: glacier walk is included, a heli-glacier tour is NOT included)
Choose Your Own Adventure (CYOA):
Optional Activities During Your Tour
The vast majority of activities on you tour are planned for the whole group. However, at a few key points on your tour we want empower YOU to choose your own adventure!
Simply review the options below and then schedule a time with your travel concierge team to review and book your custom CYOA activities. We are happy to expound on these possibilities and answer any questions at that time.
Day 1
En Route
Enplane for New Zealand
Day 2
Christchurch, New Zealand
Arrival Day! Start of services - Welcome Dinner at 6PM!!
Day 3
Arthur’s Pass to Hokatika to Franz Joseph
All activities as a group - No CYOA This Day
Day 4
Franz Joseph Glacier Experiences & Local Wildlife!
MORNING ACTIVITY
(May not be combined with any other activity)
4 hours (approx.)
On this Franz Josef Glacier helicopter tour and hike, land atop the glacier and explore ice caves and pinnacles with a small group. Soar above New Zealand’s Southern Alps during a scenic flight, then grab your crampons and make your way through dramatic ice formations during a moderately difficult hike.
Numbers are limited to 11 to ensure personalized attention from your expert guide. Franz Josef Glacier helicopter tour and walk Take in beautiful glacier views from the air by helicopter Explore the ice with your guide and gain insight into the geological forces at play Marvel at the stunning landscape on your moderately difficult hike Tour includes all hiking equipment.
Meet your guide at the centrally located tour base in Franz Josef at one of several morning departure times available. You’re given a safety orientation and provided with protective gear including Gore-tex jacket, trousers, woolen hat, gloves and leather boots with crampons in preparation for your Franz Joseph Glacier tour. Then hop into the helicopter for stunning aerial views over New Zealand’s scenic Southern Alps and surrounding area—a magnificent sight to behold.
After a brief flight, experience a gentle yet thrilling landing atop the mighty Franz Josef Glacier. Ice axe in hand, set off on foot with your guide past ice formations that protrude alongside ice caves, pinnacles, and seracs. Explore the dramatic landscape as you hike past mazes of ice and deep blue crevasses along the glacier. With insight from your guide, understand the various geological forces at play in this otherworldly environment.
At the conclusion of your glacier hike, return to Franz Josef by helicopter.
$394 per person
MORNING ACTIVITY
(May be combined with Hike To The Glacier)
20 minute flight & one hour tour
Rise to the sky above Franz Josef in one of the modern helicopters as your pilot takes you on a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From sea level rising to the heart of the magnificent Southern Alps, this flight explores the awe-inspiring ice falls of the Franz Josef Glacier. See the stunning ice features, cracks and crevasses from above.
Your flight also includes a snow landing, an excellent opportunity to really take in the surroundings and breathe the clean alpine air as you get your feet on pristine white snow. Climb back aboard the helicopter for the descending flight, landing back in the Franz Josef township.
$203 per person
MORNING ACTIVITY
(May be combined with Glacier Heli Snow Landing)
Note – will not be hiking on the glacier
Hike to the glacier wall of Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers + visit Lake Matheson.
Included – simply confirm with the concierge team & we will make the arrangements.
Day 5
West Coast View of Mt. Cook / Haast Pass / A Local’s Stop!
All activities as a group - No CYOA This Day
Day 6
Get Local Day — Wanaka Tree / Lavender Farm / Winery Tour / Local Art!
All activities as a group - No CYOA This Day
Day 7
Mtn Adventure Day! — Land Cruisers / Mtn Town / Mtn Culture!
MORNING-ONLY ACTIVITY
(You may also choose an afternoon activity)
1 hours 30 minutes
Queenstown is home to the best bungee jumps, cliff jumps, giant swings and zip-lines in New Zealand. Challenge yourself and choose your jump!
- 43m Bungy
- Water Touch
- Tandem Option
$220 per person
MORNING-ONLY ADVENTURE
(You may also choose an afternoon activity)
1 hours 30 minutes
It is free for spectators to check out Bungy Jumping and get amongst the awesome atmosphere bungy centre.
AFTERNOON-ONLY ADVENTURE
(You may also choose a morning activity)
1 hour total experience (25 minute ride)
Prepare yourself for the ultimate jet boating experience. A unique, breathtaking white water ride and adrenaline rush you’ll never forget.
Included – simply confirm with the concierge team & we will make the arrangements.
AFTERNOON-ONLY ADVENTURE
(You may also choose a morning activity)
3-hour tour both on and in the water
The trip features the full jet boating experience and a custom 4WD off-road tour. Explore the abandoned gold mining area of the Arrow river with film locations from the ‘Lord of the Rings’.
Included – simply confirm with the concierge team & we will make the arrangements.
AFTERNOON-ONLY ADVENTURE
(You may also choose a morning activity)
(Choose this option in lieu of Jet Boating)
Short hike on the Morningstar Trail in Arthurs Gorge Scenic Reserve followed by a brew at Canyon Brewing.
Included – simply confirm with the concierge team & we will make the arrangements.
Day 8
CYOA Queenstown — From Shopping to Sky Diving - it’s your choice!
MORNING-ONLY ACTIVITY
5 hours (approx.)
Queenstown’s famous Shotover River provides whitewater rafting action for those looking for extra excitement and thrills. Experience the rugged beauty of the Skippers Canyon as you conquer the wild and untamed Shotover River.
Tackle the thunderous ‘Mother’ rapids, a series of six grade 4-5 rapids, before the journey through the darkness of the 170-metre long Oxenbridge Tunnel. Shoot the drop into Cascade Rapid to complete your whitewater rafting challenge.
What’s included
- White water rafting down the Shotover River
- Safety briefing, professional guides
- All necessary equipment- wetsuit, life jacket, spray jacket, booties, helmet
- Courtesy coach transfers from centrally located meeting point
- Hot showers
What’s not included
- Food and drinks
$220 per person
Befitting its reputation as the birthplace of tandem sky diving in New Zealand, Queenstown is the perfect place to “jump out of a perfectly good airplane.”
- Up to 25 seconds freefall at speeds of 200km/hour
- 15-20 minute flight to altitude
- 3-4 minute flight under canopy
- Dramatic Queenstown scenery
$300 per person
Discover great shopping in Queenstown, with luxury brands, iconic New Zealand design stores, souvenirs, boutique fashion and adventure sports equipment.
Included – simply confirm with the concierge team & we will make the arrangements.
YOUR CHOICE: MORNING-ONLY, AFTERNOON-ONLY, OR ALL DAY
Allow WALLSabout to recommend a hike for you based on your fitness and interest.
Day 9
Fiordland National Park
All activities as a group - No CYOA This Day
Day 10
Milford Sound Cruise
All activities as a group - No CYOA This Day
Day 11
Farewell Dinner — Queenstown
All activities as a group - No CYOA This Day
Day 12
Bid Farewell to New Friends
Departure day- No CYOA This Day
Day 13
En Route Home
Optional Extensions
Arrive Early (One Day)
1 day pre-itinerary extension
We highly advise arriving 1 - 2 days early to shake off jet lag and be ready for the trip of a lifetime. Includes luxury accommodations, breakfast, and light activities for 2 - 4 hours per day with plenty of time to rest.
Arrive Early (Two Days)
2 day pre-itinerary extension
We highly advise arriving 1 - 2 days early to shake off jet lag and be ready for the trip of a lifetime. Includes luxury accommodations, breakfast, and light activities for 2 - 4 hours per day with plenty of time to rest.
Extend Your Stay
1 - 3 day post-itinerary extension
Linger longer in the adventure capitol of the world, Queenstown. Includes luxury accommodations and breakfast.
Wilderness Trekking
4 day post-itinerary guided wilderness experience.
Winery Extension
3 day post-itinerary extension to one of Central Otago's famed wineries.
Fly Fishing
3 day post-itinerary fly fishing experience.
Biking Extension
3 day post-itinerary biking extension.
Golfing Extension
3 Day post-itinerary extension at one of Central Otago's famed courses.
Frequently Asked Questions
We cap our group trips at 16 people, which allows us to provide each person with exceptional service. Private trips are also available.
Six to 18 months prior to departure is highly recommended. However, if we have availability, we can get you ready for a trip in as little as 30 days. Keep in mind that our trips typically sell out months before departure.
Current pricing and payment details are available by contacting us.
Upon booking, our full-time concierge will step you through everything you need to prepare for your trip. From visas to vaccines to packing — we’ve got you covered!
Testimonials
Benjamin Walls
Founder
"The goal with WALLSabout is not a great vacation, the goal is a life changing experience."
Benjamin Walls is an internationally recognized artist, founder of four successful startups, and an ardent conservationist. His dedication to connect people to the natural world has also led to the founding of WALLSabout Luxury Travel. “I believe there’s nothing more inspiring than our last great wild places — my mission is to reconnect people to those places in dynamic fashion. I do that with my artwork in my galleries, but WALLSabout™ is unique because it allows me to curate a three dimensional experience. The goal with WALLSabout is not a great vacation, the goal is a life changing experience."
Steve
Senior Program Director
Australia & New Zealand
Ground-handler
Steve, aka “Fro” resides in Barwon Heads, Australia with his beautiful wife, daughter, and son. He met Benjamin years ago while working at Copper Mountain in Colorado and they’ve been lifelong friends since. Steve has spent the last five years traversing the plains of Africa with WALLSabout™, and is an expert in all things safari. His goal on every adventure is to make you feel completely at home halfway around the world!
Lisa
Program Director
Lisa has over a decade of experience leading trips to destinations such as Australia, Cambodia, Chilie, Costa Rica, Nepal, Peru and Vietnam. In addition to her skills as a Program Director, she owns her own small business and is a CPA! One of her favorite quotes is by Howard Thurman who said “Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and go do that. Because what the world needs are people who have come alive.” Lisa remarks, "I truly come alive when I am given the opportunity to delight guests with one-of-a-kind experiences.’ Lisa makes her home in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.
Emma Harvey
Concierge
From packing lists to visas to vaccinations - not to mention additional excursions - Emma has all of the answers!
Tori
Guide
Moe
Guide
Steve
Guide
Nick
Guide
John
Guide
Manny
Guide
Newton
Guide
Kevin
Guide
Sam
Guide
Erick
Guide
Thomas
Guide
Safi
Guide
WALLSabout Journeys™ are carefully crafted luxury travel itineraries that are hosted by hand-picked local guides. Each trip is scouted and curated by our founder, Benjamin Walls to provide an ideal in-depth experience of various destinations and includes extraordinary accommodations, custom sightseeing tours, private transportation, most (if not all) meals, domestic airfare, and friendly personal service before and during the trip.
“I utilize the tenacity I have developed as an artist to curate our WALLSabout™ itineraries. I omit countless ‘good’ experiences so I can offer an itinerary that is truly special. For me, it’s about not settling for less than exceptional.” —Benjamin Walls, Founder of WALLSabout™ Travel
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