Must Do New Zealand, Australia and Fiji 28 Day Self Drive Tour Itinerary

‘Haere Mai’ … Welcome to New Zealand

Relax you are now officially on holiday and everything has been taken care of! On arrival you will be transferred from the airport to your accommodation to freshen up and unwind. 

Auckland is the largest city in New Zealand, situated amongst a cluster of extinct volcanic cones, next to a large harbour that bustles with life, both on water and on land. The Auckland isthmus straddles a slim piece of land with coastline facing both the Pacific Ocean, and, on the wild West Coast, the Tasman Sea. Enjoy a stroll around the waterfront that is teeming with excellent cafes and restaurants from which to enjoy the sights of the The City of Sails. 

Make the most of some free leisure time in the 'City of Sails' - simply relax or take this opportunity to explore the many sights of Auckland. 

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

It’s hard to believe when you drive through the idyllic peaceful countryside of the Waikato, that hidden beneath its surface lies a labyrinth of Glowworm Cave networks that house formations and creatures that are simply out of this world. 

If you are interested in seeing galaxies of beautiful glowworms, then this small group personalized Spellbound Tour allows you to spend 40 minutes under glowworms. This tour is one of the most unhurried glow worm tours in New Zealand, with plenty of time for your eyes to adjust to the darkness - intensifying the effect of thousands of softly shining glow worms.

Sir David Attenborough on the BBC series 'Life in the Undergrowth' described the spellbound Cave as an “Astonishing Cave” And “one of natures most Magical Illuminations!” - This is an easy adventure everyone will enjoy.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 372 km | 232 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Rotorua - 2 Nights

Setting off from Rotorua, travel through the lush farmland of the Waikato and King Country regions. You will journey to the emerald pastures and rolling hills of The Shire, where Hobbiton was brought to life on a private farm in Matamata. This idyllic village blurs the line between fantasy and reality. Set to the scale of a 3ft Hobbit you’ll feel like you’ve walked into a magical world of smoking chimneys. 

Te Po is Te Puia's authentic evening Māori cultural experience - a feast of food, culture and friendship. Enjoy a ritual welcome which will include a challenge by fierce warriors, then you can relax and enjoy a performance of songs, haka and poi dance before enjoying traditional food. Following dessert, you will be transported to enjoy the spectacular lighting of the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley. Guests can wander around the illuminated natural attractions, including Pohutu geyser, while enjoying more Maori-inspired delicacies and a hot drink.

Approximate Distance: 70 km | 43 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour (each way)

Today you will return your rental vehicle to Rotorua Airport and fly to Christchurch where you will be transferred to your accommodation on arrival.

After checking in, why not step back to Edwardian times with a relaxing punting trip down the Avon River? It's a wonderful introduction to the "Garden City". Gliding gently along the river in a flat-bottomed boat, you will take in Christchurch's 'must-see' historic buildings and Botanic Gardens away from the hustle and bustle of the city streets.

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

Climb aboard the TranzAlpine and travel via Arthur's Pass to Greymouth on the West Coast. This rail journey is truly something special. Enjoy thrilling vistas over deep gorges as you travel alongside the ice-fed Waimakariri River and traverse the mighty Southern Alps, where spectacular views of the chiseled alpine landscape will take your breath away at every turn. Ranked among the world’s top 6 train journeys, these tracks flow through some of New Zealand's most splendid countryside from the Southern Alps to Greymouth. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see natural grandeur on such a scale. 

On arrival in Greymouth collect your next rental vehicle and continue on to the west coast glacial village of Franz Josef.

Accommodation: Franz Josef - 2 Nights

From Franz Josef Village fly over both the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, soaring first over the townships and then following the ice flow high up into the upper reaches. This 30-minute helicopter flight with an expert alpine pilot takes you over the twin glaciers of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier, with a snow landing at the head of either one.

At the landing site above the icefalls, step out to marvel at the phenomenal glacial beauty of the crevasse-filled landscape below. Your helicopter tour soars above the magnificent carved valleys of the Southern Alps, and includes round-trip hotel transport to the tour base.

Take your time heading south today: you won't want to miss the spectacular scenery as it transforms from rugged coastal mountain ranges and mirror lakes to the winding Kawarau River Gorge. You will finally emerge into the lush green farmland surrounding Queenstown, your destination for tonight.

Queenstown, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the magnificent Southern Alps, is New Zealand’s most celebrated destination.  Offering a wealth of experiences to be enjoyed – from adrenaline activities through to superb golf, gourmet food, and wine tours or romantic hot air ballooning.

Approximate Distance: 350 km | 218 miles  Total Driving Time: 5 hours 

Accommodation: Queenstown - 2 Nights

For the most engaging way to experience the riches of Fiordland National Park. This option includes three modes of transport (land, sea & air) making this the ‘holy grail’ of combination tours.

Coach: Board a luxury coach for a journey into beautiful Fiordland. The Road to Milford is one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives. The first part is relatively mild farmland, and then you’ll ease into a beech forest near the entrance to the Fiordland National Park. Look for the Avenue of the Disappearing Mountain and the Mirror Lakes and through the rough-hewn Homer Tunnel to Milford Sound.

Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise of the entire length of Milford Sound viewing the spectacular waterfalls and famous Mitre Peak. Grand, brooding, serene and wild, Milford Sound draws visitors from all over the globe to cruise its length. The purpose-built cruise boat offers excellent viewing of waterfalls, rainforest, mountains, and wildlife with large windows, spacious decks, and comfortable lounges.

Fly: Experience the “Absolutely Stunning” scenery as you fly over Sutherland Falls and over beautiful Milford Sound and lakes Te Anau and Lake Manapouri on your way back to Queenstown.

Included Meals: Lunch

Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is part of UNESCO's Te Wāhipounamu (The Place of Greenstone) World Heritage region. Here in Mackenzie Country you'll find Australasia's highest mountain - Aoraki / Mount Cook (3,724m) - nestled in the splendid Southern Alps.

Known to Māori as Aoraki or Cloud Piercer, this magnificent mountain is surrounded by over 150 peaks along with countless glaciers, ice and snowfields, mountain lakes, and ranges.

Approximate Distance: 263 km | 164 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Mount Cook - 2 Nights

A day in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park offers a rich connection with nature. Explore alpine trails, glacial rivers, and scenic lookouts with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. Prefer a slower pace? Enjoy a peaceful picnic or simply soak in the dramatic surroundings. As night falls, the park’s clear skies provide an exceptional stargazing experience. Whether you seek adventure or quiet reflection, this spectacular landscape caters to every nature enthusiast with unforgettable moments.

Tonight enjoy a Star Gazing Tour - this area also has World Heritage status as a Dark Sky Reserve for the purity and lack of light pollution.

Today continue your journey to Christchurch. You will pass by the charming 'Church of the Good Shepherd', which sits alone on its shores and the views to our highest mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook are remarkable. After enjoying these amazing sceneries you will continue to your final destination of the day - Christchurch. 

Approximate Distance: 332 km | 206 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

Crowned "The World's Most Liveable City" for several years in a row, friendly Melbourne is the perfect place to begin your Australian self-drive adventure.

This compact, diverse metropolis is begging to be explored after settling into your comfortable accommodation. There are hidden charms around every corner, beautiful Botanic Gardens and chic city squares where you can soak up the atmosphere to your heart's content.

Lose yourself in cobbled laneways, admire the street art of Hosier Lane, take a tram to St Kilda beach or grab a bite to eat at Queen Victoria Market - it's the largest market in the Southern Hemisphere.

Accommodation: Melbourne - 3 Nights

Join this indulgent morning walk through Melbourne's beautiful back streets, and get orientated in the life of the city that locals love. Discover local designers and specialty retailers, that often are only found in the city. Some of the quirkiest cafes, independent designers, street art, architecture, and historical tales are found in these walkways, there is something for everyone, locals and visitors alike.

Morning tea is included before a restaurant lunch with a glass of wine. See over 30 stores on this casual stroll and return to those you like best in the afternoon: make a day of it in Marvellous Melbourne.

Included Meals: Lunch

Discover a new realm in travel sophistication with the Luxe Bus "Vintages and Villages tour, your premium small group tour to the Yarra Valley. Travel in style and comfort in your luxury leather-seated Mercedes Benz through the renowned Yarra Valley for your unique, boutique tour, showcasing the cool climate wines and culinary dining the region is famous for. Enjoy a 2 course dining experience and a glass of wine while you take in the expansive views overlooking the Yarra Ranges.

Included Meals: Lunch

Bid farewell to the city and fly to Australia's Red Centre for your first glimpse of magnificent Ayers Rock, or Uluru as it is also known.

Ayers Rock stands 348 metres above the ground and reaches over 700 metres underground. Uluru is also home to the World Heritage listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, which is of extreme importance to the local Aboriginal people.

The Magical "Field of Light"
Tonight enjoy the Field of Light Installation with a Star Pass. Marvel at this desert spectacle of 50,000 glass spheres of Bruce Munro's amazing Field of Light installation.

You will be welcomed at a raised viewing area for canapés and chilled sparkling wine to the sounds of a didgeridoo. As the sun slowly sets, the coloured lights of 50,000 glass spheres come to life before you. Created by internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro, this magical installation has to be seen to be believed.

Accommodation: Ayers Rock - 3 Nights

Travel to Kings Canyon - From Ayers Rock Resort, stopping for breakfast at Kings Creek Station along the way.

Climb to the rim of the canyon - Make the rocky climb to the rim of the canyon for marvellous views of Watarrka National Park. Follow the rim of the canyon stopping to look down into the canyon gorge at look-out points. Time permitting, you may choose to descend into the green oasis of the 'Garden of Eden'.

Circuit walk - The circuit walk takes approximately 3 hours to complete and is rocky and steep in parts. It is recommended for those with a good level of fitness. Alternatively, you may wish to take an easier, shorter walk to explore the boulder-strewn canyon floor.

Return to Ayers Rock Resort - After lunch (own expense).

Experience the tranquillity of the pre-dawn land under a canopy of stars. Watch the amazing transformation of colours and life as the desert awakens with Uluru and Kata Tjuta as your backdrop. Watch the distant domes of Kata Tjuta come into view and enjoy a traditional Aussie breakfast. Once the sun is up, enjoy a guided tour at the base of Uluru. First stop is Kuniya where you'll take a short walk to the Mutitjulu waterhole.

This evening your journey begins on a lone sand dune. Here you enjoy sparkling wine and a selection of delectable canapés. Dining under the sparkling outback sky as the sun sets, you feast on a BBQ buffet of authentic Australian delicacies complemented by some of Australia's quality wines. Stargazing Attention then turns to some of the world's best stargazing. In winter, guests gather around a campfire to savour a special treat of hot mulled wine.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

You will be transferred to the airport and fly to Cairns. With its close proximity to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, Cairns is a haven of scuba diving, snorkelling, reef cruises, fishing, rainforest walks, native bird and wildlife watching.

Sun-seekers and locals alike flock to Cairns Esplanade's swimming lagoon on the city’s foreshore. There are picnic areas, birdwatching viewpoints, free barbecues and fitness equipment along the boardwalk, perfect for unwinding after your flight.

Accommodation: Cairns - 3 Nights

Today you will meet the magnificent sea life of the Outer Great Barrier Reef. Go snorkeling with the most beautiful fishes and turtles you've ever seen! Even diving is a great opportunity which can be arranged. Or you can simply relax and enjoy the sun with a cool breeze. When it's time for lunch, there enjoy a delicious hot & cold buffet.

Passions of Paradise holds an exclusive permit for several unique snorkel and dive sites. They pioneered this site in 1995, and have been snorkeling and scuba diving the area ever since. This means no crowds from other boats, and the coral is in magnificent condition. Sea turtles are extremely common and you are also likely to see giant trevally, small black tip reef sharks, bat fish, and hundreds of varieties of colourful reef fish.

Included Meals: Lunch

On this small-group full-day Daintree Rainforest tour, you will explore all the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation region has to offer. Sit back and relax in comfort in a custom-built 4WD air-conditioned vehicle while listening to informative and entertaining commentary by your local naturalist guide.

Spot crocodiles on a Daintree River cruise, learn about flora, fauna and the history of the Daintree on a guided boardwalk tour, take a 4WD ride through a World Heritage-listed rainforest on the rugged Bloomfield Track, savour a traditional Aussie barbecue, sample traditional 'Aussie' billy tea, damper and tropical fruits in the company of wallabies.

Fly onwards to Sydney, the oldest and grandest of Australia's big cities. Blessed with a glorious natural harbour, golden beaches and a blissful climate, this incredible metropolis makes a stunning final destination on your Contrasts of Australia Tour.

Settle in with a stroll along Circular Quay. With the Harbour Bridge at one end and the Opera House at the other, is there any more iconic place to begin your Australian dream vacation?

Accommodation: Sydney - 4 Nights

Enjoy some free time to discover Sydney in-depth, at your own pace.

Take a ferry to Manly for a laid-back beach day, or cruise to Taronga Zoo, where both animals and visitors alike can enjoy jaw-dropping harbour views. Adventurers can climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge or tackle the Bondi to Bronte walking trail along the rugged sandstone cliffs. Foodies will love visiting the Sydney Fish Market, where you can pile your plate high with freshly caught & cooked seafood and take your haul outside to eat on the pier.

However you choose to spend your day, Sydney is guaranteed to win your heart.

BridgeClimb is an experience that will never be forgotten on one of the world's most modern wonders, The Sydney Harbour Bridge. The BridgeClimb experience begins with a comprehensive briefing and safety demonstration to prepare you for the Climb of Your Life.

The exhilaration and personal satisfaction achieved by reaching the top of the Bridge is rewarded by the breathtaking view that lies before you as you scale up the Sydney Harbour Bridge. There is no adventure like it in the world ...no view like it ...no feeling like it!

Relax, get away from the city, and enjoy some fabulous wine and food in Australia's oldest wine-growing region. Just 2 hours north of Sydney, the Hunter Valley combines world-renowned wines with gourmet local produce and stunning countryside - all the makings for a fabulous, relaxing day.

This tour concentrates on the smaller, boutique wineries in this stunning area, where regional variations are even more prominent and the passion of the wine-makers is obvious. These wineries help bring the wine-making process to life, and you will enjoy private tastings with those for whom wine-making is their greatest passion.

Included Meals: Lunch

Today you fly from New Zealand to Fiji, arriving in the tropical gateway of Nadi where warm island hospitality welcomes you. On arrival, you are met and transferred by boat to Matamanoa Island Resort in the beautiful Mamanuca Islands. Cruise across sparkling turquoise waters, passing scattered coral islands before reaching this secluded paradise. Set on its own private island, the resort offers an immediate sense of relaxation with white sand beaches, lush palms, and crystal-clear lagoons. Check in and unwind as you soak up the tranquil surroundings, enjoying your first taste of Fiji’s laid-back pace and stunning natural beauty.

Included Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Matamanoa Island - 3 Nights 

Enjoy a free day at Matamanoa Island Resort, a secluded adults-only retreat in Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands. Begin your morning at leisure, taking time to relax in peaceful surroundings and enjoy the gentle island atmosphere. Spend the day as you wish, whether lounging beneath swaying palms, enjoying a refreshing swim, or simply unwinding with a book overlooking the ocean. For those feeling more active, optional experiences include exploring the surrounding reef on a guided snorkelling trip, trying stand-up paddleboarding, or indulging in a spa treatment. As the day unfolds, savour the calm rhythm of island life in this tropical setting.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy a second free day at Matamanoa Island Resort, giving you more time to explore or simply relax at your own pace. You may choose to join a guided island walk to learn about local flora and fauna, or venture out on a scenic boat excursion to nearby reefs and uninhabited islands. Water lovers can take advantage of diving opportunities to discover colourful coral gardens and marine life, or enjoy kayaking around the calm lagoon. Alternatively, take time to unwind by the pool, enjoy a cocktail at sunset, or watch the changing colours of the Pacific from the beachfront.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Vinaka Vakalevu!

After the most amazing trip, today you will be transferred to Nadi Airport to meet your onward flight

We know you will enjoy your holiday and our promise is to make your travels as enjoyable, hospitable and hassle-free as possible. On this final day of your holiday, we say farewell and Vinaka vakalevu (thank you very much). You'll be departing today from Fiji with a library full of photos, and huge smiles on your faces when recalling your South Pacific holiday!

Included Meals: Breakfast