10 Day Highlights of the South Island Self Drive Tour Itinerary

‘Haere Mai’ and Welcome to New Zealand.

New Zealand’s second-largest city and the gateway to the South Island, Christchurch sits on the very edge of the Canterbury Plains and is bordered by the Pacific Ocean.  Stop in at the Riverside Market - a 7-day-trading, indoor market, linked to a vibrant network of boutique retail, restaurants, cafes & bars. Alternatively step back to Edwardian times with a relaxing Private 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. Make the most of your free time, your New Zealand short break starts 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.

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 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.

Today you have an included visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. The centre showcases the Aoraki Mount Cook region, its people and its place in the universe. Designed to educate and entertain, the centre depicts Sir Edmund's longstanding connection with the region and touches upon his achievements, expeditions and life's work. 

Make the most of this morning to enjoy the beauty of Mount Cook National Park at your leisure. Take your time heading south this afternoon: you won't want to miss the spectacular scenery as it transforms from rugged ranges and mirror lakes to the winding Kawarau River Gorge. During your drive you might like to stop and visit the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown. You will finally emerge into the lush green farmland surrounding Queenstown. 

Sit back and take in the stunning views as you ride the steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere! You'll be carried 450 metres to the top of Bob's Peak where you get to experience a spectacular 220 degree panorama with breath-taking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Walter and Cecil Peak.

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

Accommodation: Queenstown - 3 Nights

Travel from Queenstown along the stunning Lake Wakatipu, with the first stop at the lake's head, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views back towards Queenstown. After a few more scenic stops, you'll arrive in Te Anau and take a 30-minute break at the Alpine Center Cafe, where you can purchase food, drinks, and souvenirs. There will also be time to feed the alpacas outside. At Milford Sound, the tour connects with a Boutique Small Boat cruise. Enjoy your packed lunch box and complimentary coffee, tea and biscuits on board while cruising past sheer cliff faces and cascading waterfalls. After the cruise returns, enjoy the relaxing drive back to Queenstown with another quick convenience stop in Te Anau.

Although celebrated as New Zealand's 'adventure capital' Queenstown offers far more than a fast paced action-packed holiday. Head down the Gibbston Valley wine trail to sample some of the region's best Pinot or catch a ride on the 100 year old Steamship - the TSS Earnslaw - to Walter Peak Station for dinner and a farm tour. Browse the waterfront cafes and have lunch at Michelin star chef Josh Emett's 'Rata.' - but if you do really want the adrenaline rush Queenstown is known for, take your pick from the Shot over Jet, Nevis Bungy, Canyon Swing, Zipline, Luge or Heli-ski.

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  you will pay a visit to the West Coast Wildlife Centre, the official home to the breeding and incubation program of Rowi Kiwi. Found only in the local South Okarito Forest, the Rowi is New Zealand's rarest species of kiwi. You also have the opportunity to view Tuatara, a highly endangered dinosaur like reptile found only in New Zealand.

While the Franz Josef Glacier is the star attraction, the village itself is the perfect base to enjoy the surrounding landscapes. You can wander through nearby rainforest tracks that offer stunning views of the glacier or visit scenic viewpoints. For a more leisurely experience, unwind at the local hot pools, soaking in the natural beauty of the area. 

Option to visit Lake Matheson: At Lake Matheson, near Fox Glacier, nature has combined exactly the right ingredients to create truly stunning reflections of New Zealand's highest peaks ...

Begin your morning with a breathtaking coastal drive to Greymouth. You might like to pause in Hokitika for a spot of shopping - this town is home to many artisan carvers of the local pounamu (greenstone), which is sacred to Maori. A unique, locally carved greenstone pendant would be a special way to remember your trip.

Arriving in the town of Greymouth it's time to drop off your rental vehicle and head to the station to begin the TranzAlpine Scenic Rail Journey.

Renowned as one of the great train journeys of the world, you will descend through spectacular gorges, river valleys and over massive viaducts before completing your journey at Christchurch.

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.