New Zealand South Island - Wonderfull!
New Zealand | Mar 1 - Mar 15, 2026

Brent
Brent G.
Salem, OR | Reviewed on Mar 20, 2026

We had a great time. The highlight had to be the overnight boat trip on Doubtful Sound. The crew and other guests (only 8 others) were great but the waterfalls and mountains were outstanding. Our first day was rainy with low clouds - a very moody effect. The second day was clear with great views and still water.

The landscape on the South island of New Zealand is amazing. We traveled from the west side to the east side and enjoyed it all. KimKim and Monica, did a great job of providing a well paced itinerary with a ton of variety. All the details were taken care of and we still had flexibility to go at our own speed.

Driving on the left was easier that we anticipated. Traffic was light and other drivers were relaxed. We put on approx 1700 km/1000 miles and it worked out great. Don't let the "wrong" side stop you from driving.

We really like the process of fine tuning the itinerary with a local travel agent before the trip even started. Monica was wonderful. We did not need it but, it was nice to feel supported if we had any issues while on the trip. This is our third KimKim trip (Norway and Nepal) and it has worked out well each time.

Hotel Reviews
The Mayfair
Christchurch

Great room, very modern and comfortable. Good location. Walking distance from the Botanical Gardens.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise - Southern Secret

The best experience of our trip.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
both were outstanding
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Christchurch to {{end_location}} (Scenic Train) TranzAlpine , standard class fare
Christchurch to {{end_location}} (Scenic Train) TranzAlpine , standard class fare
New Zealand
Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise - small group onboard Southern Secret (Fiordland Cruises)
Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise - small group onboard Southern Secret (Fiordland Cruises)
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Skyline Gondola transport
Skyline Gondola transport
Queenstown (NZ)

ok, not much room to walk around at the top.

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Monika Vinsova