# New Zealand’s West Coast and southern lakes · Short middle stop and a slower finish [Canonical itinerary]() Short middle stop and a slower finish - Region: Oceania - Trip format: Open jaw - Nights: 13 - Interests: Arts & Theatre, History, Design, Nature, Science, Food & Drink ## Route and nights - Christchurch · 5 night(s) - Franz Josef · 2 night(s) - Queenstown · 6 night(s) Tradeoff: Two nights in the middle means one main visit. Keep a substantial final base for the last stretch. Compare: Drive or intercity coach combinations ## Day-by-day agenda Suggested schedule. Times are local. Check hours and availability for your dates. ### Day 1 · Christchurch Check in and keep the first evening near your base. Overnight: Christchurch ### Day 2 · Christchurch Christchurch Art Gallery Overnight: Christchurch ### Day 3 · Christchurch City history and heritage buildings Overnight: Christchurch ### Day 4 · Christchurch Post-earthquake rebuilding and architecture Overnight: Christchurch ### Day 5 · Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Avon River paths Overnight: Christchurch ### Day 6 · Franz Josef Transfer from Christchurch to Franz Josef. Allow time for luggage, check-in and any connections. Overnight: Franz Josef ### Day 7 · Franz Josef Interpretation of changing glaciers and rivers Overnight: Franz Josef ### Day 8 · Queenstown Transfer from Franz Josef to Queenstown. Allow time for luggage, check-in and any connections. Overnight: Queenstown ### Day 9 · Queenstown Lake Wakatipu paths and mountain views Overnight: Queenstown ### Day 10 · Arrowtown Gold-rush streets and riverside walking Overnight: Queenstown ### Day 11 · Queenstown Local lunch and regional produce Overnight: Queenstown ### Day 12 · Queenstown Lake settlements and mining history Overnight: Queenstown ### Day 13 · Queenstown Lakefront public spaces and hillside streets Overnight: Queenstown ### Day 14 · Queenstown Check out and leave time for the trip to your departure point.