Best of New Zealand –
Ultimate Self-Drive Adventure
Journey across the Canterbury Plains and through the spectacular alpine landscapes of Arthur's Pass National Park before descending to New Zealand's rugged West Coast. Arrive in Greymouth, famous for its dramatic coastline, rainforests and rich gold-mining history.
Overnight in Greymouth.
Christchurch – Arthur's Pass – Greymouth
Day 7
Day 8
Drive along one of New Zealand's most scenic coastal highways to Kaikōura, renowned worldwide for its marine wildlife. Optional whale watching or dolphin encounters are highly recommended before continuing to Christchurch, the beautiful Garden City. Overnight in Christchurch.
Blenheim – Kaikōura – Christchurch
Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand's vibrant "City of Sails." Upon arrival, collect your rental car and drive to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day exploring the waterfront, Viaduct Harbour or Queen Street. Visit the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic city views or enjoy an
optional dinner at the revolving Orbit Restaurant.
Overnight in Auckland.
Begin your scenic drive through the lush Waikato countryside to the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where you'll enjoy a guided tour and magical underground boat ride beneath thousands of glowworms. Continue to the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set for a guided tour through the charming Hobbit village featured in The Lord of the Rings and The
Hobbit films. Later drive to Rotorua, New Zealand's geothermal capital. Overnight in Rotorua.
Auckland – Waitomo – Hobbiton – Rotorua
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Arrive in Auckland
Spend the day discovering Rotorua's fascinating geothermal attractions. Visit Te Puia, home to the famous Pohutu Geyser, bubbling mud pools, the Māori Arts & Crafts Institute and the Kiwi Conservation Centre. In the evening, enjoy an unforgettable Māori Cultural Experience with traditional performances followed by a delicious Hāngi Dinner. Overnight in Rotorua.
Rotorua – Geothermal Wonders & Māori Culture
Travel south along the magnificent West Coast, stopping at the spectacular Punakaiki Pancake
Rocks & Blowholes before continuing to the Glacier Region. Spend the afternoon exploring Franz Josef Glacier or choose an unforgettable optional helicopter flight with glacier landing. Overnight in Franz Josef Glacier Region.
Greymouth – Punakaiki – Franz Josef Glacier
Day 9
Travel south through rolling countryside and renowned wine regions to New Zealand's charming capital city, Wellington. Explore the vibrant waterfront, Cuba Street, Cable Car and Parliament precinct or visit the award-winning Te Papa Museum. Overnight in Wellington.
Napier – Wellington
Day 4
Day 5
Drive through spectacular volcanic landscapes via Lake Taupo, New Zealand's largest lake, before continuing to the beautiful Art Deco city of Napier. Join a guided walking tour to admire the city's unique architecture, boutique shops and picturesque waterfront. Overnight in Napier.
Rotorua – Lake Taupo – Napier
Board the spectacular Interislander Ferry across the Cook Strait, regarded as one of the world's most scenic ferry journeys. Cruise through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds before arriving in Picton. Continue to Blenheim, the heart of New Zealand's famous
Marlborough wine region. Overnight in Blenheim.
Wellington – Cook Strait Ferry – Picton – Blenheim
Day 6
Enjoy a full day to experience Queenstown at your own pace. Take an optional excursion to the breathtaking Milford Sound, ride the Skyline Gondola & Luge, experience the thrilling Shotover Jet Boat, enjoy a scenic helicopter flight or relax with a wine tour through the Gibbston Valley vineyards. Overnight in Queenstown.
Queenstown – Day at Leisure
Day 10
Day 11
Today's drive is considered one of New Zealand's finest scenic journeys. Travel through lush rainforests, waterfalls and alpine landscapes via Haast Pass, stopping at the famous Blue Pools, before arriving in the adventure capital, Queenstown. Enjoy the evening exploring the vibrant lakefront. Overnight in Queenstown.
Franz Josef – Haast Pass – Queenstown
Drive through the spectacular Central Otago region towards Aoraki / Mt. Cook National Park, passing the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki. Continue to either Mt. Cook Village or Lake Tekapo, where magnificent alpine scenery surrounds you. Overnight in Mt. Cook / Lake Tekapo.
Queenstown – Lake Pukaki – Mt. Cook / Lake Tekapo
Day 12
After breakfast, return your rental vehicle at Christchurch Airport before boarding your onward flight, taking home unforgettable memories of New Zealand's spectacular landscapes, glaciers, geothermal wonders, alpine scenery and unforgettable road trip adventure.
Depart Christchurch
Day 13
Day 14
Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd overlooking beautiful Lake Tekapo, then enjoy the fascinating Dark Sky Experience, one of the world's premier stargazing destinations. Continue to Christchurch and visit the International Antarctic Centre, where interactive exhibits provide a unique insight into Antarctic exploration. Overnight in Christchurch.
Mt. Cook / Lake Tekapo – Christchurch