Highlights of the South Island Self Drive Tour Itinerary

‘Haere Mai’ and Welcome to New Zealand.

Christchurch, New Zealand’s second-largest city and the gateway to the South Island, lies between the Canterbury Plains and the Pacific Ocean. Explore the lively Riverside Market, open seven days a week with boutique retail, eateries, and bars. Or step back in time with a Private Punting Trip down the Avon River—an elegant way to see the “Garden City.” Glide past historic buildings and the Botanic Gardens in a flat-bottomed boat, soaking up the charm. Enjoy your free time—your South Island adventure begins tomorrow.

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

Today you will make your way to 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. During your drive take a break at beautiful Lake Tekapo.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

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

Accommodation: Mt Cook - 2 Nights

A day in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park reveals stunning alpine landscapes, highlighted by a Tasman Glacier boat cruise offering close-up views of floating icebergs. The journey continues with a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, where visitors gain insight into the region’s natural environment, rich cultural stories, and the remarkable achievements of Sir Edmund Hillary. Blending adventure with reflection, this unforgettable experience invites nature enthusiasts to connect deeply with one of New Zealand’s most spectacular and inspiring wilderness destinations.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Spend your morning at leisure, soaking in the breathtaking beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. In the afternoon, travel south at a relaxed pace, watching rugged mountains and mirror-like lakes give way to the winding Kawarau River Gorge. Pause to explore historic Arrowtown before arriving in Queenstown. Ride the Skyline Queenstown Gondola to Bob’s Peak for sweeping alpine views, then enjoy three thrilling luge rides on winding tracks overlooking Lake Wakatipu, adding fun and adventure to this scenic journey.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 265 km | 165 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Queenstown - 3 Nights

From Queenstown, enjoy a scenic coach journey along the spectacular Milford Road, one of the world’s most stunning alpine drives. Take in breathtaking scenery featuring grassy plains, ancient rainforest, towering mountains, alpine meadows, and glacial lakes. Then cruise the awe-inspiring Milford Sound, where waterfalls tumble from sheer cliffs and the famous Mitre Peak rises dramatically from the water. Feel the mist as you approach powerful waterfalls and keep watch for seals, dolphins, and the rare Fiordland crested penguins. After this unforgettable experience, board the coach for the return journey to Queenstown, taking in more of Fiordland’s remarkable and diverse landscapes.

Included Meals: Lunch

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

The drive from Queenstown to Franz Josef is one of the most scenic in New Zealand. Mountain passes give way to ancient rainforest and the windswept West Coast. There's beauty around every bend, with woodland walks and dramatic waterfalls along the way - perfect for picnic stops. Nestled in a rainforest clearing, Franz Josef Glacier Village lies at the heart of the Westland National Park. Welcome to one of the most diverse and beautiful areas of New Zealand.

Take the time this afternoon for a walk to the Glaciers Terminal Face.

Approximate Distance: 355 km | 220 miles  Total Driving Time: 5 hours

Accommodation: Franz Joseph - 2 Nights

Today, visit the West Coast Wildlife Centre, home to the conservation program protecting the rare Rowi kiwi from the nearby Okarito Forest, and see the ancient tuatara, a reptile unique to New Zealand. Included in your day is a spectacular twin glacier helicopter flight, offering a thrilling perspective as you soar above the dramatic ice formations of Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier. Enjoy a snow landing high in the Southern Alps, where you can step out onto the glacier and take in the vast, pristine alpine landscape.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Begin your morning with a scenic coastal drive to Greymouth, perhaps stopping in Hokitika to browse local shops. This charming town is known for its artisan carvers of pounamu (greenstone), sacred to Māori—a hand-carved pendant makes a meaningful keepsake. On arrival in Greymouth, return your rental car and board the iconic TranzAlpine Scenic Rail. Renowned as one of the world’s great train journeys, with Scenic Plus upgrade, enjoy premium dining, panoramic views, and expert commentary as the train winds through dramatic gorges, river valleys, and towering viaducts before reaching Christchurch, offering a memorable finale to your South Island adventure.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 175 km | 109 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Christchurch - 1 Night

"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage!

There maybe time for some last minute excursions or shopping before making your way for your outbound flight. We are sure you will enjoy your New Zealand short break holiday, our promise is to make your travels through New Zealand as hassle-free and hospitable as possible - ensuring that today you leave with plenty of photos, and huge smiles on your faces when recalling your time in New Zealand! Have a great homeward journey, farewell and hope to see you again soon.

Included Meals: Breakfast