Classic New Zealand Driving Itinerary

Relax into your holiday with a seamless airport transfer, free time to explore Auckland, and breathtaking 360° views from the iconic Sky Tower.

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 before an included visit up the iconic Sky Tower. For over 25 years, the Auckland Skytower has been the focal point of this beautiful harbour city. The magnificent 328m high structure rises up out of the land to delight locals and visitors alike. Experience incredible 360° views of Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) , taking in ancient volcanoes, sparkling sunlit harbours and beyond.

Accommodation: Auckland - 2 Nights

Enjoy a free day in New Zealand's biggest metropolis. There are countless ways to admire Auckland's striking city skyline today.

 Climb the Auckland Harbour Bridge or bungy jump over the edge if you're feeling adventurous! For something more leisurely, take a walk up one of Auckland's 48 volcanic cones such as Maungawhau (Mount Eden) for 360 degree panoramic views of the city and surrounds. Or try dining in style at the top of the 328-metre Sky Tower. Within an hour of Auckland you can explore volcanic islands, trek through a rainforest, or catch some waves at a wild West Coast black sand surf beach. You'll be in holiday mode in no time.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Collect your rental vehicle and set off from Auckland, driving south through rolling farmland and volcanic landscapes toward Taupō, a vibrant lakeside town on the edge of New Zealand’s largest lake, Lake Taupō. 

Known for its geothermal activity, crystal-clear waters, and stunning mountain views, the area offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Arrive and explore the scenic waterfront before experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Māori Rock Carvings at sunset on a sailing tour. Knowledgeable skippers share history while you hoist sails, relax with drinks and pizza, or swim in clear waters, ending the day beneath a glowing sunset.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 275 kms | 171 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Taupō - 2 Nights

Spend a day exploring geothermal wonders and unwinding in natural thermal pools near Taupō.

Begin your day with a visit to Orakei Korako Geothermal Park & Cave, where you’ll wander through vibrant silica terraces, steaming vents, and bubbling mud pools in a striking natural setting. Cross the lake by boat to reach this hidden geothermal valley and explore its peaceful walking tracks. In the afternoon, unwind at Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa, soaking in warm mineral-rich pools surrounded by native bush. Learn about Māori culture, relax in the healing waters, and end the day feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Today you will head west through lush countryside and rugged hill country toward New Plymouth, a vibrant coastal city known for its creative arts scene, beautiful gardens, and laid-back lifestyle. 

Framed by the dramatic cone of Mount Taranaki and the Tasman Sea, it offers a unique blend of culture and nature. Arrive and stroll along the Coastal Walkway, enjoying ocean views and fresh sea air. Spend the evening exploring galleries, cafes, and the relaxed seaside atmosphere before settling in for a peaceful night.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 280 kms | 173 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 45 mins

Accommodation New Plymouth - 2 Nights

From stunning beaches to the towering volcanic peak, New Plymouth offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration and excitement.

The area is perfect for those seeking adventure, whether it's exploring the rugged coastline or discovering lush native forests. The region's unique landscape also appeals to those interested in culture and history, with vibrant galleries and local landmarks. Nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike can enjoy everything from hikes through beautiful terrain to unwinding in the town's charming surroundings. Whether you're after adventure or relaxation, New Plymouth has something for everyone

Included Meals: Breakfast

Leave New Plymouth in the morning, travelling south through rolling farmland and small rural towns, with changing landscapes guiding your journey. 

Pass through Whanganui, where the river winds gently through the city, offering a scenic pause along the way. Continue toward Wellington, with coastal views appearing as you approach the capital. Arrive in the afternoon and explore the vibrant waterfront, bustling cafes, and cultural spots. As evening sets in, enjoy the lively atmosphere, harbour views, and cool sea breeze before settling in for the night.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 365 kms | 227 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 45 mins

Accommodation: Wellington - 2 Nights

Wellington is known for its vibrant, creative energy, with colourful streets lined by galleries, studios, and character-filled boutique shops that reflect the city’s artistic spirit. 

At the waterfront, Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa showcases the nation’s history and culture through immersive exhibitions and national treasures. The city is also celebrated for its exceptional dining scene, offering world-class restaurants and innovative cuisine. For nature and wildlife encounters, Zealandia Ecosanctuary provides a rare chance to experience native species in a protected urban sanctuary surrounded by lush forest trails and peaceful birdlife.

This morning return your rental vehicle to Wellington Airport and fly to Nelson where you will collect your next rental vehicle on arrival.

Receiving some of the highest sunshine hours in New Zealand, the Nelson district it the perfect destination to visit year round. Located in the North-West corner of New Zealand, the Nelson region is surrounded by sheltered mountain ranges, golden beaches, national parks and boutique wineries and breweries. From Nelson, it’s easy to access any of three distinctly different National Parks.

Accommodation: Nelson - 2 Nights

Spend a day exploring golden beaches, sheltered bays, and coastal wildlife in Abel Tasman National Park.

Abel Tasman National Park is New Zealand’s smallest national park, protecting 23,000 hectares of easily accessible coastline shaped by islands, estuaries, and sheltered turquoise waters. Your cruise, walk, and sail adventure begins with a scenic journey along the coast, followed by time to explore Anchorage and the surrounding walking tracks. Enjoy a 1.5-hour self-guided walk on the Pitt Head loop track, taking in panoramic views across the park and leading to Te Pukatea Bay, one of its most beautiful beaches. Return to Anchorage to board a sailing catamaran, then spend the afternoon gliding along the coastline, spotting New Zealand fur seals, feeling the sea breeze, and returning to Kaiteriteri Beach.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 55 kms | 34 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hours (each way)

Spend a day journeying through world-class wine country and along a dramatic coastal route to a renowned seafood town in the South Island.

Travel through Marlborough, one of New Zealand’s most celebrated wine regions, known for its exceptional Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir. Stop along the way to sample local produce such as honey, cheese, and salmon, perfect for a gourmet picnic with vineyard and valley views. Continue on a stunning coastal drive toward Kaikōura, where mountains rise sharply from the sea. Arrive in the evening and enjoy fresh local crayfish at a cosy seaside restaurant, rounding out the day with unforgettable coastal scenery and flavours.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 244 kms | 151 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Kaikoura - 2 Nights

Spend a day encountering marine wildlife and exploring a dramatic coastal peninsula in Kaikōura.

Kaikōura is world-renowned for its rich marine ecosystem, where sperm whales can be seen year-round and humpback whales visit seasonally. This afternoon, set out on a whale watching cruise and watch for spectacular moments as these giants surface, spout, and dive in search of squid. Back on shore, explore the scenic Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway, where rugged coastline meets snow-capped mountains. Along the route, you may spot New Zealand fur seals resting on rocks or boardwalks—observe them respectfully from a distance while enjoying the sweeping ocean views.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Spend a day travelling from the coast through rural plains into a garden-filled city, discovering the charm of South Island’s largest urban centre.

Leaving Kaikōura, journey inland across the expansive Canterbury Plains toward Christchurch, a coastal city framed by the Pacific Ocean and renowned for its abundant green spaces and relaxed atmosphere. Once you arrive, settle in and begin exploring its leafy parks and tree-lined avenues. For a peaceful introduction, take a traditional punting ride along the Avon River, drifting past historic landmarks and the Botanic Gardens. This gentle experience offers a calm perspective on the city’s elegant architecture and tranquil riverside setting away from the busy streets.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 182 kms | 113 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

Spend a scenic day travelling from Christchurch along the coast to a historic southern city, with charming stops and natural wonders along the way.

Depart Christchurch and follow the coastal road south toward Dunedin, taking time to enjoy the relaxed pace and changing scenery. Stop in Oamaru to explore its beautifully preserved Victorian Precinct, where whitestone buildings house galleries, boutiques, and traditional sweet shops. Continue to Koekohe Beach to see the remarkable Moeraki Boulders scattered along the shore. Arrive in Dunedin, a city shaped by strong Scottish heritage, and discover its elegant architecture, historic university atmosphere, and welcoming old-world character.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 365 kms | 227 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 45 mins

Accommodation: Dunedin - 2 Nights

Enjoy a free day exploring the historic charm, wildlife, and unique attractions of Dunedin at your own pace.

Optional activities include a visit to Larnach Castle, a beautifully restored 19th-century landmark surrounded by elegant gardens and filled with fascinating antiques. Nature lovers may choose to head to the Otago Peninsula, where it is possible to encounter sea lions, seals, albatross, and the world’s smallest penguins in their natural habitat. For something more unusual, you could optionally walk up Baldwin Street, known for its extreme gradient and quirky reputation. In the evening, you might also choose to dine in one of Dunedin’s creative restaurants or enjoy its relaxed nightlife scene.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Spend a relaxed day travelling through the southernmost reaches of the South Island, moving from historic city life to wide-open rural landscapes.

Depart Dunedin and head south through rolling farmland, coastal plains, and small rural towns that showcase the quieter side of the region. Enjoy the open road views as you pass through South Otago, with opportunities to pause at scenic lookouts along the way. Continue toward Invercargill, one of New Zealand’s southernmost cities, known for its spacious streets, heritage architecture, and strong connection to the surrounding natural environment. Arrive in the afternoon and settle in, with time to explore its parks, museums, or simply enjoy the calm pace of life at the edge of the country.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 205 kms | 127 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 45 mins

Accommodation: Invercargill - 1 Night

Journey to New Zealand’s southern edge and ferry to the remote island wilderness of Stewart Island.

Depart from Invercargill and travel south through flat coastal landscapes toward the small harbour town of Bluff, one of the country’s oldest European settlements. From here, board the ferry across Foveaux Strait to Rakiura / Stewart Island, where wild coastline and untouched native forest await. Keep watch for seabirds and marine life during the crossing. On arrival, explore the peaceful village of Oban or enjoy short walks into the surrounding bush. The day offers a true sense of remoteness, with quiet harbours, natural beauty, and an unspoilt atmosphere far from the mainland.

Approximate Distance: 30 kms | 19 miles  Total Driving Time: 30 mins

Accommodation: Stewart Island- 2 Nights

Begin your day with a short boat ride across the open sea to Ulva Island, a pristine predator-free sanctuary teeming with native wildlife. 

Your guide will lead you along well-maintained forest tracks through lush, ancient rainforest, sharing insights into the island’s rich ecological history. The walking pace is unhurried and guided by bird activity, allowing plenty of time to observe and photograph rare species in their natural habitat. You may encounter Stewart Island Weka, South Island Saddleback, Tomtit, Rifleman, Robins, Brown Creeper, Tui, Kākā, Fantail, NZ Pigeon, Yellowhead, Bellbird, and Parakeets, making this one of New Zealand’s most rewarding birding experiences.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Begin your day with a scenic ferry journey back across Foveaux Strait to Bluff, where coastal waters and distant horizons set the tone for the morning. 

On arrival in Bluff, continue your journey inland through open Southland landscapes and quiet rural towns along the way. Travel onward to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park, where dramatic mountain scenery and pristine lakes begin to emerge. Arrive in the afternoon and enjoy the peaceful lakeside setting, with time to relax by the water or explore the small township surrounded by towering peaks and untouched wilderness.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 180 kms | 112 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Te Anau - 2 Nights

Experience an unforgettable Fiordland adventure combining high-speed river action and a breathtaking scenic flight.

Begin your day with an exhilarating jet boat journey along the Upper Waiau River toward Lake Manapouri, combining high-speed thrills with moments of calm as you spot trout, native birdlife, and iconic Lord of the Rings filming locations. A short walk within Fiordland National Park adds a peaceful contrast amid dramatic wilderness. Continue the adventure by stepping directly from jet boat to seaplane on the remote waters of Lake Manapouri, surrounded by towering peaks. Soar above the vast landscapes of Fiordland and the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area before a scenic landing in Te Anau, completing an unforgettable day of land, water, and sky.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Set off to Manapouri, the gateway to one of New Zealand’s most remote wilderness regions, before crossing Lake Manapouri and the Wilmot Pass into the deep fiords of Doubtful Sound / Patea.

Arriving at Deep Cove, board your overnight cruise vessel and begin a leisurely journey through towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, rainforest-clad cliffs, and tranquil inlets, accompanied by expert commentary from your nature guide. Along the way, you may choose to explore by kayak or join small boat excursions to get closer to the shoreline. As evening falls, the vessel anchors in a sheltered arm of the fiord. Enjoy a freshly prepared three-course dinner in the saloon before retreating to your comfortable ensuite cabin, surrounded by complete silence and untouched wilderness far from everyday life.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Approximate Distance: 20 kms | 12 miles  Total Driving Time: 20 mins

Accommodation: Doubtful Sound - 1 Night

Experience a scenic farewell to Fiordland before arriving in Queenstown for alpine views and adventure.

After breakfast, cruise back through Doubtful Sound / Patea toward Deep Cove, watching for dolphins, fur seals, and possibly the rare Fiordland crested penguin. Disembark and travel through dramatic mountain scenery toward Queenstown, the “Jewel of the South,” set beside Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps. Ride the Queenstown Skyline Gondola for panoramic views, then enjoy three thrilling luge rides down the slopes. Spend the rest of the day exploring Queenstown’s vibrant waterfront, shops, and restaurants in a stunning alpine setting.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 271 kms | 168 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Queenstown - 3 Nights

Enjoy a full day exploring the flavours, landscapes, and history of Central Otago on an indulgent guided wine experience.

Travel through three distinct wine sub-regions—Gibbston Valley, Bannockburn, and Cromwell—with your expert wine guide leading you through a curated tasting journey. Visit New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave, enjoy a cheeseboard paired with local wines, and savour a unique multi-course lunch featuring dishes cooked in retired oak barrels, each matched to a wine. If time permits, explore the historic gold-mining settlement of Arrowtown and Old Cromwell, learning about early pioneers and the formation of this world-class wine region before returning to your accommodation.

Included Meals: Lunch

Enjoy a full day exploring the adventure, scenery, and flavours of Queenstown and its surrounds.

Optional activities for thrill-seekers include a bungy jump at Kawarau Gorge, a swing across Shotover Canyon, or a skydive over the alpine landscapes. For a more relaxed pace, explore the historic streets of Arrowtown, take a scenic drive to Glenorchy, or visit local wineries, cheese producers, and orchards at leisure.

In the evening, cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak Station for a gourmet barbecue dinner. After a short farm tour, return to Queenstown on a relaxing lakeside sail with live piano entertainment on board.

Included Meals: Dinner

Spend a scenic day travelling from alpine adventure hub Queenstown to the heart of the Southern Alps and Mount Cook region.

Depart Queenstown and journey through the dramatic landscapes of the Lindis Pass, where golden tussock hills and sweeping valleys define the route. Continue through the Mackenzie Country, passing the vivid turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki, shaped by glacier-fed flows and framed by distant peaks. Arrive at Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s highest mountain and vast alpine scenery. Settle in and enjoy optional short walks with views of glaciers and rugged peaks. After dark, join a Big Sky Stargazing tour, experiencing some of the clearest night skies in the world, where the Milky Way and southern constellations shine brilliantly above the alpine wilderness.

Included Meals: Dinner

Approximate Distance: 311 kms | 193 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Mount Cook - 2 Nights

Begin your day with a memorable alpine adventure in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park.

Take a short bus ride into the Tasman Valley, just outside Mount Cook Village. From the Blue Lakes carpark, follow a 1.5km alpine walk through the National Park, surrounded by towering peaks, glacial landscapes, and crisp mountain air. At the Tasman Lake jetty, board the Glacier Explorers boat and spend around an hour drifting across icy waters, weaving among floating icebergs, and viewing the Tasman Glacier up close. This three-hour experience combines spectacular scenery, fresh alpine air, and a unique boat journey on one of New Zealand’s most iconic glacial lakes.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Spend a scenic day travelling from the heart of the Southern Alps to the vibrant city of Christchurch.

Depart Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park and journey through the vast Mackenzie Basin, passing shimmering turquoise lakes and open high-country landscapes. Continue along the shores of Lake Tekapo, where alpine views and braided rivers create striking scenery. Travel onward across the Canterbury Plains, with wide horizons and patchwork farmland stretching toward the coast. Arrive in Christchurch, known for its leafy streets, parks, and relaxed atmosphere. Settle in and enjoy the city’s gardens, riverside walks, or vibrant dining scene as the day winds down in the South Island’s largest urban centre.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 175 kms | 108 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

“Haere rā” — goodbye and bon voyage! Today marks the end of your journey through New Zealand. 

We will arrange your transfer to Christchurch Airport, ensuring a smooth and comfortable departure for your onward flight. As you travel, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences, landscapes, and encounters that have shaped your adventure. From soaring mountains and tranquil lakes to vibrant cities and welcoming communities, New Zealand leaves a lasting impression. You depart with special memories of a truly exceptional holiday, carrying the spirit of Aotearoa with you as you head home or continue your travels.

Included Meals: Breakfast