The South Island of New Zealand offers a diverse landscape of stunning mountains, pristine lakes, and rugged coastlines,making it an ideal destination for first-time visitors. This itinerary provides a comprehensive overview of the region's highlights, starting in Christchurch and concluding in Greymouth.

Day 1: Arrival in Christchurch

• Arrive at Christchurch International Airport.
• Check into your accommodation.
• Explore the city center, including Christchurch Botanic Gardens and the Cardboard Cathedral.

Day 2: Tranzalpine Train Journey

• Embark on the iconic Tranzalpine Train journey from Christchurch to Greymouth.
• Marvel at the breathtaking scenery of the Southern Alps, including Arthur's Pass National Park.
• Return to Christchurch or continue your journey to Greymouth.

Day 3-4: Canterbury Region

• Drive from Christchurch to Tekapo, stopping at Peak Hill (Coleridge) and Lake Clearwater for scenic views.
• Explore the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and visit the Church of the Good Shepherd.
• Continue to Mount Cook National Park and hike to Hooker Valley Track or Tasman Glacier.

Day 5: Dunedin

• Drive from Mount Cook to Dunedin, stopping at Timaru for a brief exploration.
• Discover Dunedin's historic city center, including the Octagon, Baldwin Street, and Larnach Castle.

Day 6: Dunedin

• Explore Dunedin further, visiting the Otago Peninsula for wildlife encounters (e.g., penguins, seals) and scenic coastal walks.

Day 7-8: Central Otago

• Drive to Cromwell and visit the Gibbston Valley wineries for wine tasting.
• Continue to Queenstown, a popular adventure tourism destination.
• Enjoy activities such as bungee jumping, jet boating, or scenic cruises on Lake Wakatipu.

Day 9: Milford Sound

• Take a day trip to Milford Sound, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Cruise through the fiord, admiring towering cliffs, waterfalls, and marine wildlife.

Day 10-11: West Coast

• Drive from Queenstown to Wanaka, stopping at the Glenorchy Walkway.
• Continue to Franz Josef Glacier, where you can take a guided walk or heli-hike.
• Explore the coastal town of Hokitika, known for its jade and pounamu carving.
• Drive to Greymouth, concluding your South Island adventure.

Note: This itinerary is flexible and can be adjusted based on your preferences and interests. Consider adding or removing destinations or activities to tailor the trip to your specific needs.