Itinerary Highlights
- Marvel at Mount Cook, glittering glaciers and pristine alpine lakes across New Zealand’s South Island
- Savour world-class wines, spot dolphins and orcas, and enjoy Fiordland’s tranquil Milford Sound
- Embrace thrilling rafting, kayaking, jet boating, mountain biking, hikes and luxury lodge retreats
- Discover the South Island's beauty; Marlborough Sounds, Nelson and Abel Tasman
- Best time to travel November to April
What's Included
- Accommodation Throughout
- Car Hire
- International Flights
20 nights from £8,820 per person
Sarah
Travel Specialist
A New Zealand South Island self-drive tour comes highly recommended to anyone wanting to discover this spectacular nation for the first time. But for those who’ve already fallen for its beauty, this can also be the perfect way to get to know it more personally.
Touch down in the vibrant city of Christchurch, before heading to Queenstown – the world’s adventure capital – set on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and backed by the soaring Southern Alps. Gaze up at Mount Cook’s snow-capped peaks and explore glittering glaciers and pristine alpine lakes.
Savour world-class wines in the rolling vineyards of Marlborough and Central Otago, feel the rush of wild rivers, and find tranquillity amid Fiordland’s dramatic Milford Sound. In the sheltered bays of the Marlborough Sounds, spot dolphins and orcas in their natural habitat.
This is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering thrilling rafting, kayaking, jet boating and mountain biking, as well as exhilarating day walks on iconic trails like Abel Tasman, Routeburn and Hollyford. After each day’s adventure, retreat to handpicked luxury lodges surrounded by nature.
Itinerary
Day 1 Fly UK to Christchurch
On arrival, make your way to your hotel, The George. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 2 Christchurch
Spend a day discovering Christchurch. There are plenty of things to do. Perhaps consider gliding along the River Avon on a traditional punt, taking in the calm scenery or exploring the city on a historic tram. For a more immersive experience, you could join a guided tour to the picturesque harbour town of Akaroa, where you can head out on a dolphin cruise.
Staying at
The George
Upgrade to
Otahuna Lodge
Day 3 Greymouth
Greymouth
Board the iconic TranzAlpine Express and journey from Christchurch to Greymouth, enjoying one of the world’s most scenic train rides. Upon arrival, collect your rental vehicle and drive along the rugged West Coast to Franz Josef, where spectacular glaciers and lush rainforest reside. Take time to explore the village. Then retreat to your hotel, Te Waonui.
Day 4 Wanaka via Haast Pass
Wanaka
Opt to begin your day with a scenic flight over Franz Josef Glacier, soaring above rugged peaks and icy valleys. Afterwards, drive through the dramatic landscapes of Haast Pass, a route that winds through rainforests, waterfalls and mountain vistas, before arriving in Wanaka. You could then spend a relaxing afternoon by the crystal-clear lake, with views of Mount Aspiring National Park.
Day 5 Queenstown
Drive from Wanaka to Queenstown, taking a scenic route through the historic village of Arrowtown. There’s time to pause and explore its gold-rush heritage, boutique shops and cafés before continuing through the rolling vineyards of Central Otago, where you can savour tastings at select wineries. Arrive in Queenstown, the adventure capital, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
Day 6 Queenstown
Enjoy a full day in Queenstown. We suggest a cruise aboard the mighty TSS Earnslaw across Lake Wakatipu. This 3.5-hour journey takes you to the base of Walter Peak, where you can explore the High Country Farm, observe original steam engines in action and visit the on-site art gallery. Plus, savour a gourmet meal paired with Central Otago wines. Discover more in the link below.
Staying at
Sofitel Queenstown and Spa
Day 7 Queenstown
Experience another full day in Queenstown. This time, why not opt for a 25-minute Shotover River jetboat adventure? Climb aboard a powerful twin V8 jetboat and race past rocky outcrops, over rushing rapids and take on the world-famous 360° spins. Along the way, marvel at the rugged landscapes that were once part of the region’s gold rush. Discover more in the link below.
Staying at
Sofitel Queenstown and Spa
Day 8 Te Anau
Te Anau
Drive from Queenstown to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. When you arrive, settle into the serene surroundings of Cabot Lodge, a boutique retreat offering all the modern comforts you could hope for in addition to sweeping views of the lake beyond. Spend the afternoon at leisure, relaxing in your elegantly appointed suite or exploring the lodge’s tranquil grounds.
Day 9 Te Anau
Te Anau
Today is free for you to explore Te Anau. You could head out on a Pure Wilderness jet boat tour, then transfer in VIP style to a helijet. Soar over the Kepler Mountain Range, Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri before reaching Jackson Peaks, 1,622 metres above sea level. From here, take in the dramatic landscapes of Fiordland National Park. Discover more in the link below.
Staying at
Cabot Lodge
Day 10 Milford Sound Cruise
Milford Sound
Transfer to Milford Sound for an overnight stay a luxurious vessel. Learn about the fjord’s thirteen natural wonders from the expert crew and keep watch for wildlife, including seals, dolphins, penguins and rare black coral viewed via the vessel’s HD ROV. Relax with king-size beds, en suite bathrooms, an on-deck hot tub and exquisite cuisine. Discover more in the link below.
Day 11 Dunedin
Dunedin
Drive to Dunedin, the second-most populous city in the South Island. When you arrive, settle into your hotel. Then perhaps take a stroll through the city’s historic streets in the afternoon.
Day 12 Dunedin
Dunedin
Spend the day discovering the dramatic landscapes of Otago. For example, you can board the Taieri Gorge Railway for a scenic journey through Taieri River Gorge, featuring deep ravines, towering cliffs and panoramic vistas of rolling hills and winding rivers. Cross the impressive Wingatui Viaduct and pass through hand-carved tunnels. Discover more in the link below.
Day 13 Mount Cook
Mount Cook
Drive to the heart of Mount Cook. There’s a chance for you to enjoy a gentle 30-minute stroll through the park, taking in the snow-capped peaks and pristine alpine landscapes beyond. This can be paired with a 2.5-hour Glacier Explorers boat cruise on the Tasman Glacier Lake, where you’ll marvel at ever-changing icebergs and observe the glacier’s lateral remains. Discover more in the link below.
Day 14 Kaikoura via Lake Tekapo
Drive from Mount Cook to Kaikoura, taking a scenic route through the turquoise waters and lupin fields of Lake Tekapo. Pause to admire the alpine and lakeside views before continuing along the dramatic coastline to Kaikoura. Upon arrival, settle into Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses, a luxurious retreat nestled among native forests with elevated views over the Pacific Ocean.
Day 15 Kaikoura
Kaikoura
This day could be spent exploring Kaikoura’s marine and coastal wonders. We can arrange for you to join expert marine biologist Dr Krista van der Linde for a three-hour helicopter tour over the Hikurangi Marine Reserve, learning about whales, dolphins and the factors shaping this unique ecosystem. Enjoy the chance to ask questions and gain insight. Discover more in the link below.
Staying at
Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses
Day 16 Blenheim
Blenheim
Drive from Kaikoura to Blenheim, the heart of New Zealand’s Marlborough wine region. After arriving, you’ll settle into The Marlborough. Spend the afternoon at your leisure.
Day 17 Blenheim
Blenheim
Another day for you to explore Blenheim. Perhaps relax and enjoy the comforts of The Marlborough or take the opportunity to explore the surrounding vineyards at your own pace.
Staying at
The Marlborough
Day 18 Nelson/Abel Tasman via Picton & Queen Charlotte Drive
Nelson
Drive from Blenheim to Nelson, taking the scenic route through Picton and along the Queen Charlotte Drive. Marvel at the sparkling Marlborough Sounds, sheltered bays and forested hillsides as you traverse one of New Zealand’s most picturesque coastal roads. Upon arrival in the Abel Tasman region, settle into Pihopa Retreat, a luxurious eco-friendly lodge.
Day 19 Nelson/Abel Tasman
Nelson
We suggest exploring Abel Tasman National Park on a six-hour small-group cruise. Cruise past Split Apple Rock, learning about its Maori legend, and observe shags drying their wings. Visit the resident fur seals at Tonga Island before enjoying a light lunch in a sheltered bay. Afterwards, choose from a variety of activities: swim, snorkel, kayak, take a bush walk along the Abel Tasman Track, bird-watch, or relax and photograph the beautiful coastline. Discover more in the link below.
Staying at
Pihopa Retreat
Day 20 Nelson/Abel Tasman
Nelson
For your last day, there are numerous activities at your fingertips. You could enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Boat Shed Café. Or why not stroll through the town’s craft shops, boutiques and art galleries? Take time to appreciate the region’s creativity and laid-back atmosphere before preparing for your onward journey. Return to Pihopa Retreat to enjoy a final moment of tranquillity.
Staying at
Pihopa Retreat
Day 21 Departure
Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Sarah
Travel Specialist
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Saturday: 9am - 5pm
20 nights from £8,820 per person
