Hop aboard a scenic train journey across the Southern Alps, then aboard the Stray bus to take in the icy glaciers of the West Coast, reach new levels of adrenaline in Queenstown, gaze at Lake Tekapo and hike in the impressive Mount Cook National Park.
In the new world of travel and tourism, we’re focusing on our Stray Journeys small group tours. New Zealand is renowned for its beautiful and varied landscapes; from white sandy beaches to rugged snow-capped mountains and lush green rainforest, New Zealand is a tiny country that packs a scenic punch! Combine that with crazy adventure activities, epic hikes, insane stargazing and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet and you’ve got an ideal place to travel. Explore New Zealand the 'Stray' way - getting further off the beaten track, seeking out one-of-a-kind experiences and meeting a bunch of epic fellow adventurers.
Your journey begins with TranzAlpine Train, one of the world's greatest train journeys. Stay in high quality single rooms at comfy 3-4 star hotels and a select few high country farm or scenic lodges. Travel by private, air-conditioned bus with your charismatic guide.
Trip Treasures:
- Accommodation: High quality single room are included. You'll stay in comfy 3-4 star hotels for most of nights and high country farm or scenic lodges close to waterfront or national park in our unique destinations. Hotel rooms are with ensuite, while shared facilities are in Strademark places.
- Private Coach Transport: Take the pressure off, kick back, relax, soak up the scenery and let someone else do the driving. You'll travel by private, air-conditioned bus.
- Stray Guide: Expect entertaining anecdotes, great recommendations, extra support and local insider knowledge from your charismatic guide. They know every inch of this country. You can't get this from a google search!
- TranzAlpine Train: Experience the South Island's striking natural landscape as you travel on one of the world's greatest train journeys. From Christchurch to Greymouth, The TranzAlpine train is a New Zealand Must Do!
Stops Along the Journey:
- Franz Josef: There's no better way to break the ice with your new Stray Mates than to explore a glacier together! Stay in this "cool" alpine town set in the rainforest near the base of the Franz Josef Glacier.
- Lake Matheson: Mirror mirror on the wall, what's the greatest New Zealand lake of them all? Take some time to reflect on your trip so far as you stroll around the magnificent Lake Matheson.
- Wanaka Tree: A tree that's more famous than any of us will ever be... Get a selfie with #thatwanakatree and know that you've ticked off a NZ must do!
- Queenstown: YAASSS QUEEN(stown), birthplace of the bungy jump. Spend a few days in the adventure capital of New Zealand that also happens to boast some pretty epic scenery too... You'll probably never want to leave!
- Lake Pukaki: This lake is so blue da-ba-di-da-ba-di, you'll struggle to even believe it's real! Take advantage of this photo pit-stop on the way into Tekapo and see if you can spot Mount Cook in the background.
- Mount Cook: Nestled in the valley beside New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Stray’s overnight stop in Mt Cook Village brings you right to the heart of a rugged alpine wonderland. During the day there are so many world-class hikes on offer that you’ll have a hard time choosing just one. In the evening, the stargazing will blow you away. This is one iconic destination you won't want to miss!
- Lake Tekapo: Hike up to the Mt John observatory or just stroll around the lakeside Good Shepherd Church, either way you can 'alp' yourself to breathtaking views of snowcapped mountains.
- Stargazing: Stay in the heart of New Zealand's Dark Sky Reserve and stargaze at the milky way above. Witness galaxies and constellations as star as the eye can see!
- Christchurch: See the sights of Christchurch, an interesting city of old and new as it continues to rebuild itself after a severe earthquake in 2011.
