New Zealand Self Drive Lodge Holiday

Day 1 - UK to Auckland

Arrive in Auckland where you will be greeted by your driver for you transfer for your chosen hotel.

Auckland is New Zealand's largest city, with a mixture of Polynesian and modern culture creating Auckland's urban environment. Auckland is home to plenty of local shops, bars and restaurants to explore. 

Day 2 - Auckland

Enjoy exploring the sights of Auckland today. Staying at the Fable Auckland you are in the perfect location to enjoy shopping and dining at local bars and restaurants.  The Viaduct Harbour and Waitemata Harbour are only a short walk away where you can enjoy a stroll along the waterfront and other activities. 

Day 3 - Auckland

Another free day to explore Auckland, speak to your consultant if you wish to add one of our Auckland experiences.

Day 4 - Auckland to Rotorua (226km/140 miles)

This morning pick up your car hire and begin your journey to Rotorua. Arriving at Rotorua in the afternoon spending the rest of your day at leisure. 

Day 5 - Te Ra Guided Experience

Be guided through the greenstone, wood carving and flax weaving schools at the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, Rotowhio Pa, Kiwi Conservation Centre and Te Whakarewarewa geothermal valley including Pohutu geyser.

Day 6 - Rotorua to Napier (218km/136 miles)

This morning leave Rotorua behind and begin your journey to Napier, once arrived checking into your hotel and spending the rest of your day at leisure. 

Day 7 - Napier Art & Deco Walking Tour

You’ll be met by your driver, in Art Deco costume, who will provide a fascinating commentary as you are driven in style, through Napier and surrounding areas.  You’ll learn about the earthquake that destroyed the city, hear stories of the people that led the rebuild and discover the Art Deco style.  En route, you will stop in Ahuriri and visit one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand, the National Tobacco Company building.  You’ll then step back in time as you drive through the residential suburb of Marewa, meaning ‘gift from the sea’ in Maori.  This suburb was built entirely on land that rose from the sea in the 1931 earthquake and is filled with 1930s style homes.

Day 8 - Napier to Wellington (325km/202 miles)

Today's drive takes you from Napier along the North Island coast to Wellington. Upon arrival in Wellington check into your hotel, spending the rest of your day at leisure. 

Day 9 - Wellington Walking Tour

Today we have included a guided walking tour around Wellington. Get to know Wellington's waterfront, downtown, courts and parliamentary areas in an easy walk of just over 2 hours duration. Your guide will introduce you to the history, sights and culture of this vibrant city. Your walk terminates in the Old St Paul's Cathedral in Mulgrave St Thorndon, enabling you to explore this fine building at your leisure.

Day 10 - Wellington to Marlborough Sounds (125km/80 miles)

Today make your way to the ferry port for your ferry from Wellington to Picton. Upon arrival in Picton parking your car before joining your water taxi across Furneaux Lodge. 

Day 11 - Marlborough Sounds

A full day to explore Marlborough Sounds. Staying at the Furneaux Lodge you are surronded by lush forests, with plenty of outdoor walks to enjoy. 

Day 12 - Marlborough Sounds to Kaikouria (137km/86 miles)

After checking out of Furneaux Lodge, take the water taxi back to Picton and pick your car hire back up. Continuing your journey to Kaikoura spending the rest of your day at leisure. 

Day 13 - Whale Watching

Today we have included a spectauclar whale watching experience. Every Whale Watch tour is a unique experience and the sightings vary. Giant Sperm Whales are the stars of the show and year-round residents. A typical Whale Watch tour may encounter New Zealand Fur Seals, pods of Dusky dolphins and the endangered Wandering Albatross. Depending on the season you may also see migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales, and Southern Right Whales. Orcas and Hector's dolphins are common sightings.

Day 14 - Kaikoura to Christchurch (181km)

Today's journey takes you along the coast of the South Island to Christchurch. After checking in to your hotel spending the rest of your day at leisure. 

Day 15 - Christchurch Gondola

Today we have included the Christchurch Gondola. Situated on the Port Hills, the Summit Station of the Gondola provides spectacular panoramic views from its elevation at 500 metres about sea level.  The Gondola base station is located in the Heathcote Valley, just 15 minutes from the heart of Christchurch city. In the comfort of a four person luxury cabin, you will take a gentle ride to the summit complex on top of the Port Hills.

Day 16 - Christchurch to UK

Today check out of your Christchurch hotel and make your way to the airport for your onward flight home.