Highlights of the North and South Island Itinerary

‘Haere Mai’ … Welcome to New Zealand

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

Auckland Sky Tower Entry
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 - 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.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 330 km | 205 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 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, and scaled to a 3ft Hobbit, you’ll feel transported to a world of smoking chimneys and cozy cottages. As evening falls, experience Te Puia Te Po, enjoying traditional Māori performances, storytelling, and a delicious hāngī dinner, all set against the magical glow of Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

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

Return your rental vehicle at Rotorua Airport and fly to Christchurch, where you’ll collect your next rental. After checking in, step back to Edwardian times with a private punting trip along the Avon River, gliding past historic buildings and the Botanic Gardens for a peaceful introduction to the "Garden City." As night falls, experience Christchurch with a Kai Safari, a 3-hour walking tour of local eats and drinks. Māori guides share stories of culture and history while you explore hidden laneways and vibrant squares, blending culinary delights with immersive storytelling for an unforgettable evening in Ōtautahi.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

Embark on the TranzAlpine train through Arthur's Pass to Greymouth, with breathtaking views of gorges, the ice-fed Waimakariri River, and the Southern Alps, ranked among the world’s top train journeys. Upon arrival, collect your rental and head to Franz Josef, a village near Westland National Park. Franz Josef Glacier, descending from the Southern Alps to 200m above sea level, spans 12km and lies amidst temperate rainforest. Its cycle of advance and retreat reflects snowfall and meltwater patterns.

Approximate Distance: 171 km | 106 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Franz Josef - 2 Nights

Okarito Lagoon, New Zealand's largest unmodified wetland, is surrounded by Kahikatea and Rimu rainforests, offering a pristine habitat for rare birdlife. Kayaking through its shallow waters and rainforest river deltas reveals sightings of White Herons (Kotuku), Shags, Royal Spoonbills, and the rare Okarito Kiwi. With over 70 bird species recorded, it’s a birdwatcher’s haven. On clear days, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Cook, Mount Tasman, and the Southern Alps in the distance.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Take your time heading south today, enjoying the spectacular scenery as it transforms from rugged coastal mountains and mirror lakes to the winding Kawarau River Gorge. Arriving in Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps, you’ll find New Zealand’s most celebrated destination. Begin your visit with a stop at the Kiwi Birdlife Park to see native wildlife up close. Queenstown offers a wealth of experiences, from adrenaline adventures and hot air ballooning to gourmet food, wine tours, and world-class golf, all set in a stunning alpine landscape.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 355 km | 221 miles  Total Driving Time: 5 hours 

Accommodation: Queenstown - 2 Nights

A free day in Queenstown lets you explore at your own pace, whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure. Start with a lakeside stroll along Lake Wakatipu or browse boutique shops and cafés in the town centre. Thrill-seekers can try bungy jumping, jet boating, or a scenic gondola ride with panoramic alpine views. For a slower pace, enjoy a vineyard visit in nearby Gibbston Valley or unwind with a spa experience. In the evening, step aboard the vintage TSS Earnslaw for a scenic cruise to Walter Peak High Country Farm, where a BBQ dinner and authentic farm experiences complete a memorable day.

Included Meals: Dinner

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 snow fields, mountain lakes, and ranges.

Included Meals: Dinner

Approximate Distance: 265 km | 164 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Mount Cook - 2 Nights

A day in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park offers an unforgettable connection with nature. Explore alpine trails, glacial rivers, and scenic lookouts with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. A highlight is the included Tasman Glacier cruise, where you’ll glide past floating icebergs and the glacier’s icy face, witnessing this majestic landscape up close. Take in the dramatic surroundings as you absorb the scale and beauty of the park. From towering peaks to shimmering glaciers, Aoraki/Mount Cook offers experiences for every nature enthusiast, creating lasting memories amid one of New Zealand’s most spectacular alpine landscapes.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

The drive from Mount Cook (Aoraki) to Christchurch is a breathtaking journey through some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes. Begin amidst the towering peaks and alpine beauty of Mount Cook National Park, then pass the vivid turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki with stunning Southern Alps views. Continue through the Mackenzie Basin to the charming town of Lake Tekapo, famous for its striking blue lake and the Church of the Good Shepherd. The route then winds through rolling farmlands and golden tussocks, passing towns like Fairlie before reaching the lush greenery of the Canterbury Plains and Christchurch.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 330 km | 205 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage! Today we say farewell. Return your rental vehicle at Christchurch Airport where you will board your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional New Zealand holiday.