Holiday Overview
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and unique culture of New Zealand's South Island on this unforgettable lodge holiday. From the vibrant city of Christchurch to the serene beauty of Wanaka, you'll embark on a journey filled with adventure, relaxation, and exploration. This itinerary promises an unforgettable journey across New Zealand's South Island, with opportunities to explore its diverse landscapes, indulge in local cuisine, and engage in thrilling adventures. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, this lodge holiday has something for everyone.
South Island's Lodges Self Drive Holiday includes:
- Return Flights from the UK
- 16 Nights Hotel Accommodation
- Car Hire
- Kaikoura Whale Watching Experience
- Marlborough Wine Tour
- Franz Josef Helicopter Experience
- Milford Sound Experience
Day 1 - UK to Christchurch
Arrive into Christchurch and make your way to your chosen hotel.
Featured accommodation
The Observatory Hotel Christchurch
Day 2 - Christchurch
A full day to explore Christchurch, as your Stewart Travel Specialist if you wish to add on an excursion.
Featured accommodation
The Observatory Hotel Christchurch
Day 3 - Christchurch to Kaikoura (180km/ 115 miles)
Today pick up your car hire and make the journey up to Kaikoura.
Featured accommodation
Kaikoura Boutique Hotel
Day 4 - Whale Watching Experience Kaikoura
Today we have included a spectacular 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.
Featured accommodation
Kaikoura Boutique Hotel
Day 5 - Kaikoura to Blenheim (128km/80 miles)
After checking out of your Kaikoura hotel continue your drive along to Blenheim. After checking spending the rest of your day at leisure.
Featured accommodation
Scenic Hotel Marlborough
Day 6 - Blenheim Wine Tour
This morning explore New Zealand's premier wine region on this half-day tour from Blenheim. Visit four different wineries in the Marlborough wine region, stroll through the vineyards, and sample wines such as Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.
Featured accommodation
Scenic Hotel Marlborough
Day 7 - Blenheim to Abel Tasman (250km/ 156 miles)
Today continue your drive to Abel Tasman. Once you reach Awaroa take the water taxi across to Awaroa Lodge.
Featured accommodation
Awaroa Lodge
Day 8 - Abel Tasman
A full day to explore Abel Tasman.
Featured accommodation
Awaroa Lodge
Day 9 - Abel Tasman to Nelson (128km/80 miles)
Today's drive takes you along to Nelson.
Featured accommodation
Alpine Lodge
Day 10 - Nelson to Hokitika (320km/200 miles)
Your drive today continues to Hokitika.
Featured accommodation
Beachfront Hokitika
Day 11 - Hokitika to Franz Josef (134km/85 miles)
Today check out of your Hokitika hotel and begin your drive along to Franz Josef. After checking in spending the rest of your day at leisure.
Featured accommodation
Te Waonui
Day 12 - Franz Josef Helicopter Experience
The perfect opportunity to get up close to the glaciers and touch snow. You'll be captivated as you lift off and fly up and over the Franz Josef Glacier or Fox Glacier and experience the solitude of a landing in this wonderful natural alpine environment.
Featured accommodation
Te Waonui
Day 13 - Franz Josef to Wanaka (285km/180 miles)
Today's drive takes you from Franz Josef to Wanaka, after arriving in Wanaka spending the rest of your day at leisure.
Featured accommodation
Tin Tub Resort
Day 14 - Wanaka to Queenstown (70km/45 miles)
Your drive today takes you along to Queenstown, after checking into your hotel spending the rest of your day at leisure.
Featured accommodation
St Rees
Day 15 - Milford Sound Experience
Today we have included a experience to Milford Sound. Today your tour starts with you travelling in comfort in a premium van equipped with complimentary water, Wi-Fi and videos onboard, and panoramic windows on board so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the stunning scenery. On your full day tour to Milford Sound enjoy the spectacular sights en route, stop off in Te Anau, experience a stunning scenic boat cruise on the fjord. Finish your day to Milford Sound with an unforgettable scenic flight back to Queenstown. Flights are by fixed wing aircraft or and take approx. 40 mins. The scenic flight is a truly awe-inspiring way to complete your trip to Milford Sound, and also provides a view of Milford Sound and it's surrounds that you couldn't possibly see any other way. Upon arrival back to Queenstown, a complimentary hotel drop off service is provided.
Featured accommodation
St Rees
Day 16 - Queenstown to Lake Tekapo (251km/155 miles)
After checking out of your Queenstown hotel begin your drive to Lake Tekapo. After checking in spending the rest of your day at leisure.
Featured accommodation
Peppers Bluewater Resort
Day 17 - Lake Tekapo to UK
Today make the drive to Christchurch Airport for your onward flight home.
The Observatory Hotel Christchurch
The Observatory Hotel Christchurch is a charming boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Christchurch, New Zealand. This elegant establishment offers a unique blend of modern comfort and historic charm, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking a memorable and immersive experience. The hotel's location is a true highlight, situated just steps away from some of Christchurch's most iconic attractions, including the picturesque Botanic Gardens and the vibrant arts and cultural precinct.
Kaikoura Boutique Hotel
Enchanting hotel on Kaikoura's waterfront - think elegantly out-there interiors and fabulous service. Stylish and comfortable rooms, a dining room serving breakfast - and Phenix Champagne Bar! Popular with honeymooners and discerning travelers. Choose a courtyard room for cheap-and-cheerful - a waterfront room for 5-star luxury. People 15 years and under cannot be accommodated.
Scenic Hotel Marlborough, Blenheim
Located in the heart of sunny Marlborough,the Scenic Hotel Marlborough is just minutes walk from the centre of Blenheim with some of New Zealand's finest food and wine virtually on your doorstep. Scenic Hotel Marlborough offers guests the ultimate in modern comfort and service.
Awarao Lodge, Abel Tasman
Awarao Lodge is located in the Abel Tasman National Park, New Zealand’s smallest and most visited National Park at the top of the South Island.
Alpine Lodge
Nestled amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of Nelson Lakes National Park in New Zealand, the Alpine Lodge offers a truly enchanting escape for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Situated in a secluded alpine setting, this lodge provides the perfect retreat for those seeking serenity and outdoor exploration. The cozy and well-appointed accommodations at the Alpine Lodge feature stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests, immersing guests in the splendor of the Southern Alps. Whether you're here to hike the scenic trails, go fishing in the pristine lakes, or simply unwind in a tranquil alpine paradise, the Alpine Lodge is the ideal basecamp for your Nelson Lakes adventure.
Beachfront Hotel, Hokitika
Located right on the beach, The stunning Beachfront Hotel is located in central Hokitika on New Zealand’s West Coast and offers a wide range of quality accommodation, full dining and event facilities.
Te Waonui
A haven from the city rush, a foray into New Zealand’s pristine wilderness – Te Waonui Forest Retreat is truly a place to relax and refresh.
Tin Tub Resort
Wanaka Luxury Lodge Tin Tub Wanaka is the perfect place if you want the very best in accommodation.
Image Gallery
Lake Wanaka
Abel Tasman
Queenstown
Humpback Whale Kaikoura
Christchurch
Christchurch Crater Rim Walkway
Christchurch
Kaikoura
Blenheim
Blenheim
Blenheim Vineyard
Abel Tasman
Split Apple Rock Abel Tasman
Nelson Beach House
Nelson Cathedral
Franz Josef Glacier
Helicopter Franz Josef
Valley Floor Franz Josef
Wanaka
Lake Wanaka
Queenstown Ariel View
Mitre Lake Milford
Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo Village
Alternative Holidays That May Interest You
Below you will find a small selection of 2024, 2025 holidays that may interest you. Remember, we tailor-make each holiday to your exact needs, so please call us on 0800 270 0069 and let one of our Holiday experts design the perfect trip for you
New Zealand’s Movies, Mountains & Maori
- Auckland
- Rotorua
- Christchurch
- Hokitika
- Fox Glacier
- Queenstown
- Lake Tekapo
- Visit Hobbiton
- Travel on the TranzAlpine train
- Climb the Fox Glacier
- Ride the Skyline Gondola
12 Nights from £3805pp
Natural Wonders of Australia & New Zealand
- Christchurch
- Lake Tekapo
- Queenstown
- Sydney
- Cairns
- Melbourne
- Stunning Mountain Scenery in New Zealand
- See Sydney and the Blue Mountains
- Visit the Great Barrier Reef and Tropical Rainforest
- Get up close to Koala's and Penguins on Phillip Island
14 Nights from £4430pp
New Zealand’s Islands, Geysers & Glaciers
- Auckland
- Bay of Islands
- Rotorua
- Napier
- Wellington
- Marlborough Sounds
- Kaikoura
- Christchurch
- Franz Josef
- Wanaka
- Queenstown
- Hibiscus Coast
- Maori cultural experience
- Wellington cable car
- Cruise Milford Sound
21 Nights from £5475pp
Golf New Zealand
- Auckland
- Rotorua
- Taupo
- Christchurch
- Hokitika
- Franz Josef
- Queenstown
- Jacks Point Queenstown
- Millbrook Resort Queenstown
- The Kinloch Club Taupo
- Explore Rotorua and its volcanic plateau
14 Nights from £1300pp
Snapshot of North Island
- Auckland
- Rotorua
- Taupo
- Tongariro National Park
- Martinborough
- Wellington
- Matamata for Hobbiton Movie Set
- Mount Victoria lookout
- Rotorua’s geothermal parks
- Tongariro National Park
9 Nights from £1385pp
South Island’s Mountain Explorer
- Christchurch
- Franz Josef
- Queenstown
- Mount Cook
- Lake Tekapo
- Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown
- Spectacular rail journey through the Southern Alps
- Mount Cook National Park
- Coloured Lake Tekapo
9 Nights from £1630pp