Canterbury High Country & West Coast
6-day tour
This tour takes you beyond the main roads and into the heart of New Zealand’s backcountry. From vast alpine valleys to windswept coastlines, it brings together a remarkable variety of landscapes, experiences, and people.
You’ll meet local farmers, storytellers, and gold miners who welcome you into their world — sharing the pride, resilience, and warmth that define life in the South Island’s remote high country and along the wild West Coast.
Your journey begins in the Canterbury High Country, where sweeping mountain ranges, clear rivers, and open skies set the scene. Staying at Mt White Station, a 40,000-hectare sheep and beef property tucked deep in the Southern Alps / Kā Tiritiri o te Moana. Accessible only as part of an organised tour, it offers a rare opportunity to see how one of New Zealand’s largest working high country stations operates sustainably amid this dramatic landscape.
Crossing to the West Coast, you’ll discover the charm of small towns, meet locals who share stories passed down through generations, and explore landscapes shaped by gold, rain, and resilience. Highlights include a private Pounamu Experience on the sacred Arahura River, visiting a working gold mine and enjoying dinner at the local pub with the owner, and heading out with a “big-tree” enthusiast at Lake Kaniere to hunt for some of New Zealand’s largest trees.
The journey finishes aboard the world-famous TranzAlpine railway, the perfect way to relax as you travel from rainforest, through the Alps, and back to the city.
Each tour is unique
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Our small groups allow us to adapt to the weather and better support the particular interests of our guests.
Tour Highlights
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Visit Karen and Mike Meares near Windwhistle for a local history and landscape tour
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Stay at Mt White Station, one of New Zealand’s largest high-country stations, nestled in the Southern Alps
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Enjoy specially prepared meals featuring fresh produce from the farm
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Join a hands-on beekeeping experience and taste pure high-country honey
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Take part in a private Pounamu Experience on the Arahura River
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Visit a small working gold mine and then share dinner at a local pub with the owner
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Go hunting for some of New Zealand’s largest trees at Lake Kaniere with a local “big tree” enthusiast
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Explore Hokitika and Blackball on locally guided walking history tours
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Meet fascinating local characters and gain special access to private properties
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Relax on the TranzAlpine from Moana to Christchurch, one of the world’s most scenic train journeys
Tour Inclusions
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Complimentary airport pick-up on arrival day
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5-nights’ accommodation, twin share
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Transportation throughout the tour in comfortable 9-seater van
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Driftwood Tour Guide throughout the tour
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5 breakfasts. 5 lunches, 5 dinners
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All guided vehicle tours - as described in itinerary
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Exclusive access to private properties
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TranzAlpine train journey from Moana to Christchurch
Quick facts
Tour Dates:
15 Feb - 20 Feb 2026
Starts and ends at: Christchurch City
Duration: 6 days / 5 nights
Group Size: Min 5 / Max 8
Destinations: Christchurch, Lake Coleridge, Mount White Station, Arthurs Pass, Hokitika, Lake Kaniere, Blackball and Moana
Transport: Private 9 seater 4WD van, and TranzAlpine Train
Accommodation: 3 nights at a four-star accommodation twin share with ensuite,
2 nights in modern shearers quarters in a private room with shared bathrooms (4 bathrooms between 8)
Price:
$5,490 per person (twin share)
$5,990 per person (sole occupancy room)
WE DONATE
PER TOUR TO
LOCAL COMMUNITY GROUPS
$800
Physical Grade:
See physical grade descriptions here
Still have questions?
Tour Exclusions
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Tour guide on the TranzAlpine Train from Moana to Christchurch
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Snacks and alcoholic beverages
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Travel insurance
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The tour begins and ends in Christchurch. You're responsible for all arrangements before and after the tour. But if you'd like help, our experienced in-house travel agent can organise any flights, transport and travel insurance you may require. Just let us know when booking, or contact us to discuss your needs.
Meet Phil Barker - Our Guide for hunting the largest trees!
Book your tour today!
Enjoy High County Living & Life on the West Coast: 6-Day Nature & Heritage Tour
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Other important details
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Itinerary is subject to weather. We'll adapt the itinerary to make the best of what nature serves up to us, but for your safety and comfort, some activities may be changed, shortened or cancelled.
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Travel insurance is your responsibility. Delays due to weather may require additional accommodation and meals at your own cost. Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover such circumstances
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Minimum numbers apply. The tour will be confirmed when the minimum numbers are reached and no later than 60 days before the tour departure date
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Deposit. To secure you spot $1,000.00 deposit per perosn is required upon booking
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Terms & conditions apply. Prices are in NZD and include GST. All tours are subject to our standard terms and conditions.
"Unforgettable, memorable, quite laid back but at same time completely organised."
Ngaire Marwood