Christchurch is an excellent hub for exploring New Zealand’s South Island over four days. Its location makes it easy to access some of the island’s most iconic sights, from the dramatic fjords of Milford Sound to the towering peaks of Mount Cook. What we love about these tours is how they balance guided experiences with free time—giving you a taste of local scenery, wildlife, and culture without feeling rushed. For example, riding the TranzAlpine Scenic Train offers a spectacular way to see the Southern Alps, while a cruise through Milford Sound showcases the unforgettable fiord landscape. These journeys are perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a rich snapshot of the South Island.
Below is a list of the best 4-day tours departing from Christchurch, each with its own unique highlights, so you can choose the one that best fits your travel style.
1. 4 Day Tour to Milford Sound, Mount Cook & More from Christchurch
At number one, this comprehensive tour takes you from Christchurch to some of New Zealand’s most famous spots, ending in Queenstown. It’s a well-rounded mix of scenic train rides, national parks, and iconic landscapes. Starting with a hotel or airport pickup, you’ll board the TranzAlpine Scenic Train—a journey often called one of the world’s most beautiful train rides—through the Southern Alps to Arthur’s Pass. Here, you’ll explore Arthur’s Pass National Park with walks along the Devil’s Punchbowl or Arthur’s Pass Track, both offering lush native bush and mountain views. The highlight is a visit to Castle Hill, renowned for its strange limestone formations perfect for photos or a quick climb if you’re feeling energetic.
This tour then continues to Milford Sound, where a cruise reveals towering cliffs and waterfalls. The trip concludes in Queenstown, with time to enjoy its lively atmosphere. With a five-star rating and a price of about $2,184, this tour is suited for travelers who want a carefully curated experience with plenty of natural wonders. Reviewers praise its seamless logistics and expert guides, calling it a “magnificent adventure.”
Bottom Line: If you want a detailed, all-inclusive experience that covers major highlights with a touch of adventure, this tour is a good investment.
2. Milford Sound, Mt Cook & More: 4 Day Tour from Christchurch
At number two, this tour is perfect for travelers who want a flexible, immersive experience of South Island’s top sights. Starting at around $2,094, it’s slightly less expensive than the first option but still includes extensive highlights. The journey takes you through Lake Tekapo with its famous Church of the Good Shepherd, and along Lake Pukaki for eye-popping views of Mount Cook—New Zealand’s highest peak. You’ll spend some quality time in Mount Cook Village, exploring the area before heading to Queenstown.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to cruise Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound—whichever the group prefers—adding flexibility to your experience. Plus, an evening of stargazing in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve offers a rare chance to see the southern night sky away from city lights. Reviewers have called it “the easiest way to see the South Island’s highlights,” praising the guided commentary and the scenic variety.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers looking for a guided, scenic, and flexible itinerary with the chance to add starry nights to their adventure.
$2,094 per person
3. 4-Day Great Southern Island Circle Tour from Christchurch
The third option, priced at about $1,140, offers a semi-independent adventure through some of the South Island’s most stunning landscapes. Over four days, you’ll travel from Christchurch, passing through the Canterbury Plains, then along the west coast to Greymouth. Highlights include a cruise in Milford Sound and a visit to Franz Josef Glacier, giving you a taste of glaciers and fjords. The tour includes fully guided narration, so you’ll learn about the region’s geology and history along the way, with plenty of photo stops.
Guests have noted its value for money, praising the detailed commentary and the balance between guided portions and free time. The itinerary covers notable stops like Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook, and Queenstown, with transportation by coach and train. Reviewers also appreciate the effort to combine sightseeing with comfort, making it suitable for those who want to see a lot with less hassle.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers on a budget who want a guided, comprehensive tour with glacier and fjord highlights.
4. 4 Day Queenstown, Milford Sound and Glacier Highlights from Christchurch
Finally, this tour offers a flexible mix of guided excursions and free time, ideal for independent explorers. Starting at just over $2,328, it includes accommodation, some meals, and multiple iconic experiences like a Milford Sound cruise and visits to Aoraki Mount Cook and glaciers. The journey begins with scenic drives and a TranzAlpine train ride through the mountains, all comfortably arranged.
While it doesn’t have reviews yet, the itinerary highlights the convenience of included accommodation and transport, making it suitable for travelers who prefer a semi-guided experience but still enjoy exploring on their own. This trip is well-suited for those who want the highlights but also value flexibility in their schedule.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a balance of guided and free exploration, with comfortable logistics.
$2,328.41 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect 4-Day Tour
When choosing between these options, consider your budget, interests, and travel style. If you crave a fully guided, detailed trip with expert commentary, the #1 tour might suit you best. Want to include star gazing and maximum flexibility? The #2 tour offers that. For budget-conscious travelers wanting glacier and fjord highlights on a guided tour, the #3 tour is solid. And if you prefer a mix of guided and independent days with cozy accommodations, the #4 tour could be ideal.
Think about what experiences matter most—whether it’s the scenic train rides, the waterfalls, glaciers, or the chance to relax and explore independently. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates and accommodations.
Final Thoughts
Christchurch provides a fantastic starting point for exploring New Zealand’s South Island over four days. Whether you’re drawn to the dramatic fjords of Milford Sound, the towering heights of Mount Cook, or the lively streets of Queenstown, there’s a tour that matches your style. For a comprehensive, guided adventure, the 4 Day Tour to Milford Sound, Mount Cook & More leads the pack. If budget and flexibility are your priorities, the Great Southern Island Circle Tour offers great value. And for the perfect mix, the Queenstown Highlights tour provides comfort and freedom.
No matter which you choose, booking early will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. These tours open up the best of New Zealand’s South Island, making four days feel like a lifetime of memories.