New Zealand's Gardens & Natural Wonders

Begin in Christchurch, known for its English heritage, as well as for being New Zealand's oldest established city. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Dinner as you meet your fellow travellers. Stay Two Nights: Christchurch, Rydges, Latimer Hotel or similar (D)

Today, journey to the historic 19th-century Ohinetahi garden and homestead, the private home of New Zealand architect Sir Miles Warren.

Afterwards, we enjoy lunch at Frensham, a relaxed private country garden with a huge variety of plants. On our way back to Christchurch, we stop in at a private garden set on eight and a half acres. The owners here pride themselves on the excellence in design, planting and maintenance of their garden, which also includes a Kauri forest. (B/L)

Traverse the Canterbury Plains today and admire the stunning alpine scenery of rugged mountain peaks. Travel via Ashburton, Timaru and Oamaru to Dunedin, stopping along the way for a visit at the garden of Alan Trott, which is recognised as a Garden of International Significance and has been awarded six stars by the New Zealand Gardens Trust.

Stop briefly at the Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden, a tribute to the author and rosarian, before arriving in the city of Dunedin, which features the best collection of Edwardian and Victorian architecture in the Southern Hemisphere. Stay Two Nights: Dunedin, Distinction Hotel or similar (B/D)

Today, we visit the Dunedin Botanic Gardens, New Zealand's oldest botanical garden, with over 6,800 plant species. We then make our way to New Zealand's wildlife capital, the Otago Peninsula, where we stop in at Glenfalloch Woodland Garden. The garden features an array of rhododendrons and azaleas, alongside native ferns and indigenous trees. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the hilltop Larnach Castle, set within a magnificent private garden. (B/L)

Today, look out for spring wildflowers as we make our way to Te Anau. On arrival, we visit Castlemaine garden in Southland. Set within picturesque countryside, the garden has a strong and formal English influence. Stay: Te Anau, Distinction Hotel and Villas or similar (B/D)

Enjoy nature's garden at its finest today as you explore Mirror Lake, Homer Tunnel and The Chasm en route to a cruise of spectacular Milford Sound. New Zealand's most stunning natural attraction, Milford Sound comprises a dramatic combination of mountain peaks, reflective waters and steep, forest-clad cliffs.

Later, arrive in the picturesque city of Queenstown, set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Stay Two Nights: Queenstown, Novotel Lakeside Hotel or similar (B/L/D)

Take a tour of the spectacular Chantecler garden in Queenstown, in the foothills of The Remarkables mountain range. This Garden of National Significance boasts 12 acres of mature gardens, including almost 1000 rhododendrons and azaleas, topiaries and sculptures. Visit the historic gold mining village of Arrowtown, where you'll have time to explore the quaint shops along its heritage main street.

This afternoon, enjoy free time in Queenstown before reconvening for dinner. (B/D)

After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight home. (B)