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Come and explore New Zealand's stunning South Island on one of our South Island tours

Our South Island tours showcase the very best of this beautiful island.

There are few places on earth more diverse or as visually stunning as New Zealand's South Island.

Kirra Tours Queenstown Winter Wonderland

From the bays, beaches and inlets of the Nelson and Marlborough regions, to the World Heritage listed Mt Cook, the stunning Southern Alps and lakes and the west coast's fiords, glaciers and rugged beaches, the South Island will leave you breathless with its beauty.

Come and join us on one of our South Island tours, which range from 7 to 13 days, and experience first hand, the magic of the South Island.

Choose from our range of Platinum and Classic tours*.

And of course we also have a full range of Dual Island Tours and North Island Tours.

* Platinum Tours are limited to just 24 guests.

These are a more intimate tour, unrushed, and with some amazing inclusions and superb accommodation.

Come and enjoy the iconic relaxed New Zealand lifestyle on one of our Platinum dual island tours.

* Our Classic Tours have attracted thousands of guests to New Zealand over the years.

These fully featured tours take you to all of those classic New Zealand destinations, and at day's end allow you to relax in the comfort of some beautiful four star hotels. 

Kirra Tours Lake Tekapo

Why choose Kirra for your South Island tours

Well, over the last 50 years or so, Kirra have become an iconic Kiwi brand.

During that time they've introduced thousands of guests to the magic of New Zealand.

And they're waiting to welcome you on one of their amazing South Island tours.

Isn't it just another coach trip?

Definitely not. All Kirra South Island tours offer you that little bit extra.

Yes, there will be time in luxury coaches, relaxing and taking in the stunning scenery.

But Kirra also include some special experiences on other forms of transport. Perhaps a train trip, or a cruise on a luxury boat?

Add in some very special locations and activities, and some unique dining inclusions, and you can see why Kirra tours stand out.

Kirra Tours Milford Sound cruise

What about accommodation on our South Island tours

At the end of a busy day, there's nothing better than relaxing at a quality hotel or lodge. Mix with your tour friends over a meal and some drinks, or just retire to your room and relax.

Drift to sleep in a comfortable bed, thinking about the days adventures, knowing that tomorrow, another adventure awaits.

Each one of their hotels and lodges were selected because they have that special mix - wonderful locations, great facilities, and welcoming staff.

And we know that you will be impressed.

What about the food on Kirra South Island tours?

Starting the day with a hearty breakfast is important, and that's why breakfast is included each day as part of your tour cost.

And most tours also include a range of additional meals, featuring some very special locations.

We know that you will love the food and wine on offer in New Zealand.

Kirra Tours coach Lake Pukaki

Are airport transfers included in your South Island tours?

No need to worry, transfers to and from the airport are included as part of your Kirra tour cost.

Now that's service.

Are Kirra South Island tours good value?

Nearly 50 years in the tour business has given Kirra the ability to negotiate the best possible prices with their accommodation and activity providers.

And of course these lower costs are passed on to you, their guests.

So compare prices. We know that Kirra represents great value for money.




Read on to learn more about our range of South Island tours.

For additional information on each tour please click on the More Info... buttons or scroll down to the South Island tours Enquiry Form.

* All prices quoted are in Australian Dollars


13 Day Southern Sensations

Platinum Series Tour – Premium hotels & lodges, 2 x 2 night stops, 4 nights Queenstown.

Starts Wellington finishes Christchurch

Meals Breakfast daily, 2 lunches, 6 dinners

From $5,795 AUD

Join us on this enchanting small group adventure in New Zealand's stunning South Island.

This is the most comprehensive of our South Island tours and takes you to the beautiful marine wonderland of Kaikoura, and the World Heritage listed Mt Cook National Park, where you will cruise on a glacial lake, complete with icebergs. Visit magical Milford Sound for a cruise on New Zealand's number one attraction (you may even choose an optional overnight cruise - highly recommended). See the majestic West Coast and the twin glaciers, Franz Josef and Fox, then conclude your adventure with a trip through the Southern Alps on the famous TranAlpine Train.

This thirteen day South Island tour will delight you.


Kirra Tours 13 Day Southern Sensations tour map

Amazing experiences

  • Cruise from Wellington to Picton on the Interislander
  • Sample the fine food and wines at some of NZ's best wineries
  • Take the Mussel cruise to Raetihi Lodge
  • Cruise on a glacial lake near Mt Cook
  • Visit mystical Milford Sound for a cruise to remember
  • Coast to coast on the famous TranzAlpine train

See the sights

  • Complimentary use of Raetihi Lodge bikes, kayaks, and fishing equipment
  • Visit Lake Tekapo and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd
  • Learn about the history of alpine exploration at Mt Cook's Sir Edmund Hilary Alpine Centre
  • Stroll the streets of historic Arrowtown, a former boom town during the gold rush of the 1800's


10 Day Southern Panorama

Classic Series Tour – Superior hotels, 3 x 2 night stops.

Starts Christchurch finishes Christchurch

Meals Breakfast daily, 7 dinners

From $2,945 AUD

Come and join us as we take you in air-conditioned comfort through the heart of the stunning South Island.

See the spectacular Southern Alps as they tower over the fertile Canterbury plains, and visit the East and West coasts, linked by a journey on the famous TranzAlpine train. What a way to conclude your South Island adventure.!

Experience the charms of Dunedin, with its Scottish influence, the wonderful scenery and buzz of Queenstown, cruise on mystical Milford Sound, and visit the incredible West Coast glacier region.


Kirra Tours 10 Day Southern Panorama Tour map

Amazing experiences

  • Cruise on mystical Milford Sound
  • Ride the famous TranzAlpine train
  • Cruise on Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station for dinner
  • Experience a Scottish Haggis Ceremony

See the sights

  • Visit the iconic Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd
  • Entry to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre at Mt Cook
  • See the unusual Moeraki Boulders
  • Take a guided tour of Larnach Castle in Dunedin


10 Day Southern Encounter

Platinum Series Tour – Premium hotels and lodges, 3 x 2 night stops.

Starts Christchurch finishes Christchurch

Meals Breakfast daily, 1 lunch, 4 dinners

From $5,120 AUD

The scenery on this tour will blow you away.

Your tour includes one of the best experiences in New Zealand, an overnight cruise on remote Doubtful Sound. This stunning wilderness region has to be one of the most picturesque places on earth, and your trip includes the use of kayaks and access to a tender vessel to explore the shoreline.

But there's so much more to see. Travel from coast to coast on the famous TranzAlpine train. See the beautiful glaciers on the rugged West Coast. Visit Dunedin and take a tour of Larnach Castle. See the towering peaks in Mt Cook National Park and enjoy the amazing vibe of Queenstown and the Southern Lakes region.


Kirra Tours 10 Day Southern Encounter tour map

Amazing experiences

  • Coast to coast on the TranzAlpine train
  • An amazing overnight cruise on remote Doubtful Sound
  • Enjoy High Tea at Dunedin's Larnach Castle
  • Ride the Taieri Gorge Railway
  • See the stars at Mt Cook

See the sights

  • Soak in the hot pools at Franz Josef
  • Take a tour of Lanarch Castle
  • Visit Sir Edmund Hilary Alpine Centre at Mt Cook
  • See the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, on the banks of beautiful Lake Tekapo
  • Ride a tram and take a punt ride on the Avon River in Christchurch


10 Day Solos Southern Magic

Special Interest Tour –  soul use accommodation in Premium hotels, 2 x 2 night stops.

Starts Christchurch finishes Christchurch

Meals Breakfast daily, 1 lunch, 8 dinners

From $5,229 AUD

If you prefer to travel alone with other singles, then this is the perfect tour for you.

Limited to just 24 guests, your tour takes you to some of the South Island's best locations. And at the end of each day, relax in your own single room accommodation in premium hotels. Breakfasts and dinners are included. Tour highlights include a cruise on mystical Milford Sound, the famous TranzAlpine Train, stunning Queenstown (where you will dine high above Queenstown at Bob's Peak), a cruise on Lake Wakatipu, high tea at Larnach Castle Dunedin, the rugged West Coast and glaciers, and lots more.


Kirra Tours 10 Day Solos Southern Magic tour map

Amazing experiences

  • Enjoy the famous TranzAlpine train journey
  • Ride the Skyline Gondola high above Queenstown for dinner
  • The exhilarating Dart River Safari
  • Relax in the hot pools at Franz Josef

See the sights

  • See the unusual Moeraki Boulders
  • Dinner at Speights Alehouse
  • Enjoy a tour of Larnach Castle followed by High Tea
  • Cruise on stunning Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak station for dinner


9 Day Mid Winter Christmas Wonderland

Special Interest Tour –  Premium hotels, 1 x 2 night stop, 3 nights in Queenstown.

Starts Christchurch finishes Christchurch

Meals Breakfast daily, 1 lunch, 6 dinners

From $3,069 AUD

New Zealand's beautiful South Island is a true winter wonderland.

Avoid the rush of summer and join us for a very special taste of winter, kiwi style.

See the South Island at its very best, as you follow the Southern Alps south from Christchurch.

See the World Heritage listed Mt Cook National Park, and visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. Go stargazing under some of the clearest skies in the world. Marvel at the turquoise waters of Lakes Pukaki and Tekapo. See the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd. Immerse yourself in the charms of Queenstown, set in a stunning location on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Visit the rugged West Coast and glaciers, and finish your tour on the famous TranzAlpine train journey from West Coast to east.



Kirra Tours 9 Day Midwinter Christmas Wonderland tour map

Amazing experiences

  • Dine at the Amisfield Winery
  • Join us for a yummy "Christmas" dinner
  • Ride the iconic TranzAlpine train

See the sights

  • Take the Skyline Gondola high above Queenstown for dinner with a view
  • Visit the Sir Edmund Hilary Centre at Mt Cook
  • Go star gazing
  • Relax at the hot pools at Franz Josef village


8 Day TranzAlpine Vista

Classic Series Tour –  Superior hotels, 1 x 2 night stop, 3 nights in Queenstown.

Starts Christchurch finishes Christchurch

Meals Breakfast daily, 1 lunch, 5 dinners

From $2,869 AUD

Come and join us on one of the world's great train journeys, a stunning finale to your very special eight day South Island adventure.

Imagine sitting back in comfort as the TranzAlpine takes you over deep ravines, through lush farmland and through the centre of the stunning Southern Alps.

But that's not all. Your tour also includes the World Heritage listed Mt Cook National Park, the turquoise waters of lakes Pukaki and Tekapo (where you stop at the iconic Church of the Good Shephed), and the beautiful Southern Lakes region, home to New Zealand's "Adventure Capital" Queenstown. Take the Skyline Gondola high above Queenstown for dinner at a restaurant with some of the best views on the planet.

Your tour also includes a breathtaking cruise on remote Doubtful Sound, and the twin glaciers, Fox and Franz Josef.



Kirra Tours 7 Day Warbirds Over Wanaka map

Amazing experiences

  • Cruise on remote Doubtful Sound
  • Take the Skyline Gondola high above Queenstown for dinner with a stunning view
  • Ride the famous TranzAlpine train coast to coast

See the sights

  • See the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, perched on the shores of beautiful Lake Tekapo
  • Enjoy a tour of a Greenstone (Jade) factory
  • See the sights on a tour of Christchurch City


7 Day Warbirds Over Wanaka

Special Interest Tour –  Premium hotels, 4 nights in Queenstown.

Starts Christchurch finishes Queenstown

Meals Breakfast daily, 3 dinners

From $2,825 AUD

Every two years over Easter, the stunning lakeside town of Wanaka comes alive with the Warbirds Over Wanaka airshow.

Now recognized as the largest show of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, the event has now been running for more than thirty years.

The amazing location and jam packed event calendar make this an event not to miss.

Enjoy a prime grandstand position with your three day Gold Pass.

Your tour also includes the iconic TranzAlpine train journey through the Southern Alps, a stay at Franz Josef glacier village (enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot pools), and the beautiful lakeside resort of Queenstown, where you will ride the Skyline Gondola, high above Queenstown, for dinner with an amazing view.


Kirra Tours 7 Day Warbirds Over Wanaka map

Amazing activities

  • Your Gold Pass for three days of thrills at Warbirds Over Wanaka
  • The iconic TranzAlpine train from Christchurch to Greymouth

See the sights

  • Soak away the day at Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools
  • Ride the Skyline Gondola high above Queenstown for dinner with a stunning view


We hope you'll come and join us on one of these great South Island tours.




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