Ultimate New Zealand Self Drive

Day 1 - Auckland

Arrive in the "City of Sails" and transfer to your hotle, spend the rest of the day exploring Auckland at your own pace.

Day 2 - Auckland

Enjoy a full day exploring Auckland, options include the immersive All Blacks Experience, perhaps take in 360 degree views from the Sky Tower, or hop on a ferry across the harbour to the picturesque island of Waiheke, renowned for its beautiful beaches, vineyards and relaxed atmosphere.

Day 3 - Rotorua via Hobbiton

Collect your hire car and journey to Rotorua, stopping en route to explore the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set. Famous as the filming location for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, this immersive guided tour offers fascinating behind the scenes insights and enchanting scenery, making it a memorable experience whether you're a devoted fan or simply curious to discover Middle Earth.

Day 4 - Rotorua

This morning, discover the rich traditions of Māori culture with a guided visit to the New Zealand Māori Arts & Crafts Institute. Explore the greenstone, wood carving and flax weaving schools, visit Rotowhio Pā and the Kiwi Conservation Centre, and experience the dramatic geothermal landscapes of Te Whakarewarewa, home to the spectacular Pohutu Geyser.

This afternoon, unwind at the renowned Polynesian Spa. Set on the shores of Lake Rotorua, the Deluxe Lake Spa offers stunning lakeside views across the tranquil Sulphur Bay Wildlife Reserve, providing the perfect setting to relax and rejuvenate in its naturally heated mineral pools.

Day 5 - Tongario via Taupo

Continue your journey to Tongariro National Park, stopping en route at the spectacular Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. We recommend arriving by 9:30am to witness the impressive Lady Knox Geyser erupt at approximately 10:15am. Afterwards, travel along the scenic shores of Lake Taupō before arriving in Tongariro National Park, where dramatic volcanic landscapes and rugged mountain scenery await.

Day 6 - Wellington

Continue south towards Wellington, passing through the rolling farmland and wide-open landscapes of the Manawatū region. As the journey unfolds, the scenery gradually gives way to dramatic coastal views before arriving in New Zealand's vibrant capital, with a picturesque harbour, lively waterfront and renowned cafés.

Day 7 - Wellington

Discover the fascinating story of New Zealand at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. Spanning five impressive floors, this world-class museum brings the country's history, culture and natural heritage to life through captivating exhibitions, interactive displays and storytelling. Explore treasured Māori taonga, remarkable artworks, unique wildlife and the diverse cultures that have shaped New Zealand into the nation it is today.

Day 8 - Blenheim

Board the Interislander ferry for the spectacular crossing of the Cook Strait between Wellington and Picton. Covering 92km in around 3 hours 20 minutes, this unforgettable journey has been described as one of the world's most scenic ferry crossings, with breathtaking views of the Marlborough Sounds. On arrival, enjoy the short drive to Blenheim, the heart of New Zealand's renowned Marlborough wine region, where you can sample local Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and other award-winning wines.

Day 9 - Kaikoura

Few places in New Zealand offer wildlife encounters quite like Kaikōura. Renowned for its incredible marine life, this spectacular coastal town is one of the best places to spot minke, humpback and southern right whales, along with playful pods of dolphins. The scenic Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway is also home to colonies of New Zealand fur seals and an abundance of seabirds, including majestic albatross, petrels and mollymawks.

No visit is complete without sampling the region's famous crayfish, for which Kaikōura is named  'kai' meaning food and 'kōura' meaning crayfish in Māori. Freshly caught and served overlooking the ocean, it's the perfect way to round off your visit.

Day 10 - Kaikoura

Few places in New Zealand offer wildlife encounters quite like Kaikōura. Renowned for its incredible marine life, this spectacular coastal town is one of the best places to spot minke, humpback and southern right whales, along with playful pods of dolphins. The scenic Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway is also home to colonies of New Zealand fur seals and an abundance of seabirds, including majestic albatross, petrels and mollymawks.

No visit is complete without sampling the region's famous crayfish, for which Kaikōura is named  'kai' meaning food and 'kōura' meaning crayfish in Māori. Freshly caught and served overlooking the ocean, it's the perfect way to round off your visit.

Day 11 - Christchurch

The next leg of your journey takes you through the picturesque North Canterbury countryside, passing the charming towns of Amberley, Waipara and Cheviot before arriving in  Christchurch. If time allows, stop in Waipara for lunch and perhaps a wine tasting in one of New Zealand's premier wine regions, celebrated for its boutique vineyards and olive groves.

You can spend the afternoon exploring the city's fascinating museums, contemporary galleries and the award-winning International Antarctic Centre. In the evening why not head to one of the excellent restaurants in High Street, Victoria Street or The Terrace?

Day 12 - The TranzAlpine Train

Step aboard the TranzAlpine, widely regarded as one of the world's greatest scenic rail journeys, crossing New Zealand's South Island from coast to coast. Travel through a constantly changing landscape of fertile Canterbury Plains, braided rivers and soaring alpine peaks before climbing into the heart of the Southern Alps on a series of spectacular viaducts. After pausing at Arthur's Pass, pass through the impressive Otira Tunnel and descend into the lush temperate rainforests of the West Coast, skirting beautiful Lake Brunner before arriving in Greymouth.

From Greymouth, continue by road to the charming seaside town of Hokitika. If you're looking to stretch your legs, the West Coast Treetop Walk offers lovely views high above the rainforest canopy, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the wild, driftwood strewn beach.

Day 13 - Franz Josef

This morning, enjoy the scenic two-hour drive to Franz Josef, travelling through some of the South Island's most spectacular mountain and rainforest landscapes. This afternoon, experience the unforgettable Neve Discoverer helicopter flight with The Helicopter Line. Soar above the magnificent Franz Josef or Fox Glacier before landing high on the pristine snowfields, where you'll have the chance to step out into this breathtaking alpine wilderness and experience the beauty and tranquillity of New Zealand's glacial landscapes up close.

Day 14 - Wanaka

Today, enjoy one of New Zealand's most spectacular drives as you travel from Franz Josef to Wānaka. Follow the rugged West Coast before crossing the Southern Alps via the Haast Pass, where towering mountains, ancient rainforest, cascading waterfalls and rivers create an ever-changing landscape. Be sure to stop at some of the many scenic viewpoints and short walking trails along the way.

As you descend into Otago, pass the pristine waters of Lakes Hāwea and Wānaka before arriving in the picturesque lakeside town of Wānaka. Surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, it's the perfect place to relax or explore, with excellent lakeside walks, boutique shops, cafés and a wide range of outdoor activities.

Day 15 - Te Anau

Today's drive takes you through the heart of New Zealand's spectacular southern landscapes as you journey from Wānaka to Te Anau. Travel past rolling farmland and the dramatic mountain scenery of Central Otago before crossing the wide-open plains of Southland. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop for photographs, short walks or a visit to the charming lakeside town of Kingston, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.

Arriving in Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park, you'll be welcomed by the tranquil waters of New Zealand's second largest lake and a backdrop of towering mountains. Spend the evening exploring the picturesque lakefront, enjoying one of the town's excellent restaurants, or simply relaxing before tomorrow's adventure into the wilderness of Milford Sound.

Day 16 - Milford Sound

Today enjoy a fully guided day trip combining the amazing return journey to Milford Sound with a boutique Milford Sound Cruise aboard Cruise Milford. The smaller boat means you get closer to the wildlife and nature including the New Zealand fur seals basking on the rocks, massive rock faces rising for hundreds of metres out of the sea and the waterfalls cascading from an ancient rainforest high in the mountains. Following your cruise head back to Te Anau by minibus with a fully guided return trip and stops and breaks along the way. (Picnic lunch included).

Day 17 - Queenstown

This morning, enjoy the scenic two-hour drive to Queenstown. In the afternoon, embark on an unforgettable 4WD adventure into the legendary Skippers Canyon. Frequently ranked among the world's most scenic roads, the narrow Skippers Road was painstakingly carved by hand into the sheer cliffs above the dramatic Shotover River, offering breathtaking views and a fascinating glimpse into New Zealand's gold mining history.

Round off the day with a ride on the Skyline Gondola, soaring high above Queenstown for spectacular panoramic views across Lake Wakatipu, the Remarkables mountain range and the surrounding Southern Alps.

Day 18 - Queenstown to Tekapo

Today's drive from Queenstown to Lake Tekapo is another scenic gem. Travel through the dramatic Kawarau Gorge and the vast, golden landscapes of the Mackenzie Country, passing shimmering alpine lakes, rugged peaks and wide-open plains. Along the way, consider stopping in the charming town of Cromwell or at the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki, where, on a clear day, you'll be rewarded with magnificent views of Aoraki / Mount Cook.

Arrive at the picturesque shores of Lake Tekapo, famous for its vivid turquoise waters, the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and its status as part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. As night falls, look up to experience one of the clearest and most spectacular displays of stars in the Southern Hemisphere.

Day 19 - Tekapo to Christchurch

Enjoy a leisurely drive from Lake Tekapo to Christchurch, following the shores of the lake before crossing the wide-open landscapes of the Mackenzie Basin. As you descend through the Southern Alps foothills, pass rolling farmland, braided rivers and the charming rural towns of Fairlie and Geraldine, with plenty of opportunities to stop for a coffee, browse local artisan shops or simply soak up the scenery.

Day 20 - Christchurch

Enjoy some free time to soak up the atmosphere of Christchurch before making your way to the airport. When it's time to depart, return your hire car and check in for your homeward flight or onward journey.