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12-Day New Zealand Highlights Self-Drive

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Overview

Travelling through the heart of the country you’ll journey past an incredible diversity of New Zealand landscapes and scenery on this 12-day self-drive highlights tour!

From the North Island’s rich Maori culture and modern cosmopolitan cities, you’ll venture south crossing the Cook Strait to the mountains, alpine lakes and glaciers of the South Island. You'll visit the iconic destinations of Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Christchurch, Mount Cook, Queenstown, Fox Glacier and more!

New Zealand is an adventurer's paradise, from jetboating to helicopter rides and bungee jumping, there's an adrenaline rush for everyone. If you prefer a slower pace of life, the incredible national park hikes, wine tasting regions and cruises will suit you perfectly.
Outdoors & Nature
Sightseeing
Culture & Arts
Food & Drink
Adventure
Cruising

Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Auckland

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Welcome to Auckland

On arrival, you will be met by a private driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation. After settling into your accommodation, you'll have the rest of the day free to spend as you wish. Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, Auckland is an urban paradise has something for everyone. Later, you can embark on a unique on-water dining experience and enjoy a delicious dinner as this photogenic city comes alive with twinkling lights.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Hotel Grand Chancellor4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    AucklandOptional Activity

    Harbour Cruise with Explore with Lunch/DinnerOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Private Driver from Auckland Airport to Auckland

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Auckland

Day 2

Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Movie Set

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Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton Movie Set

Today, you'll pick up your rental car and begin the drive south past the Bombay Hills and into the rolling farmland and rich dairy pastures of the Waikato. The Bombay Hills mark the outer boundary of greater Auckland area and it's here you turn inland to central Waikato. On the way, you can stop to visit the Hobbiton film set used in the shooting of the Lord of The Rings and Hobbit trilogies. Continuing on, the telltale signs of steam and geothermal activity will signal your arrival in Rotorua.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Sudima Lake Rotorua3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Hobbiton Movie Set TourOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Auckland to Rotorua

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Auckland

    Matamata

    Rotorua

  • notes icon
    Notes

    Choose from a great range of late model rental cars for your driving holiday. Today, you’ll take to the road for your New Zealand self-drive holiday, so take a look through the great selection of late-model vehicles available and take your pick. To help you on your way, GPS is included with all rentals.

Day 3

National Kiwi Hatchery, Canopy Tour, Mitai Maori Village & More

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National Kiwi Hatchery, Canopy Tour, Mitai Maori Village & More

Rotorua sits on top of one of the world's most active volcanic regions. Below the surface, the earth's crust grinds and moves to produce heat and molten rock. The original Maori inhabitants recognised the great potential of this natural resource and applied it to cook their food and a plentiful supply of hot water to relax. Today, Rotorua offers a myriad of activities for all to enjoy. Its compact city centre is ideal to stroll and enjoy the cuisine and hospitality.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Sudima Lake Rotorua3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    RotoruaOptional Activity

    Rainbow Springs Nature Park & National Kiwi Hatchery Combo TourOptional Activity

    Rotorua Canopy ToursOptional Activity

    Mitai Maori VillageOptional Activity

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Rotorua

Day 4

Fantastic Scenic Drive from Rotorua to Wellington

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Fantastic Scenic Drive from Rotorua to Wellington

The drive from Rotorua to Wellington takes you via the township of Taupo home to New Zealand’s largest lake. Following the lakeshore south, you’ll pass Turani and then ascend the central plateau onto the high country Rangipo Desert. Skirting the edge of Tongariro National Park, you’ll reach the military town of Waiouru before descending through rich farmland and rural towns. Follow the coast through Paraparaumu, Paekakariki and Plimmerton to arrive at your destination, Wellington.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Distinction Wellington Century City Hotel4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Zealandia Eco-Sanctuary Night TourOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Rotorua to Wellington

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Rotorua

    Wellington

Day 5

Cross the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry

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Cross the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry

Today, you'll cross the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry. Approaching Picton you'll cruise through the spectacular Marlborough Sounds. The 92-kilometre journey over the Cook strait between Wellington and Picton takes around three hours and has been described as 'one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world'. You'll pass Pencarrow Head, New Zealand's oldest lighthouse, the seal colony on Red Rocks, spectacular views of the Kaikoura Ranges and so much more!

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Picton Yacht Club Hotel3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Interislander Ferry - Wellington to Picton

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Picton to Picton Yacht Club Hotel

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Wellington

    Picton

  • notes icon
    Notes

    This morning, before you jump on the Interislander Cruise to Picton, you'll return your rental car as you'll be picking up another one on the other side.

    Upon arrival in Picton, you'll once again pick from a range of GPS-enabled cars and set off on the second half of your self-driving adventure.

Day 6

Drive on the Pacific Coast Highway to Christchurch

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Drive on the Pacific Coast Highway to Christchurch

Today, you'll cross the ‘dry hills’ of the Marlborough ranges as you leave Picton and head towards one of the most spectacular coastlines of the South Island, the Kaikoura Coast. Follow the coastline and be sure to keep an eye out for seabirds and New Zealand fur seals. Arriving at Kaikoura and enjoy its bustling atmosphere, the main reason for visiting is the wildlife. Follow the spectacular coastline before heading inland and through North Canterbury’s major wine region to Christchurch.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Heartland Hotel Cotswold3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Whale Watch KaikōuraOptional Activity

    International Antarctic CentreOptional Activity

    Christchurch GondolaOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Picton to Christchurch

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Picton

    Kaikoura

    Christchurch

Day 7

Scenic Drive through Canterbury and MacKenzie Country to Mount Cook

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Scenic Drive through Canterbury and MacKenzie Country to Mount Cook

Today, you'll drive through the heart of the South Island, crossing the vast Canterbury plains. Catch your breath in Geraldine before continuing through Fairlie. Ascending Burkes Pass, you'll come to the picturesque lakeside town of Tekapo. Take in the view of Aoraki Mt Cook (New Zealand's tallest mountain) from the shores of Lake Pukaki, known for its glacier-fed turquoise blue colour and continue to your final destination, Mt Cook Village.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    The Hermitage Hotel4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Tasman Glacier Discovery with Glacier ExplorersOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Christchurch to Aoraki / Mount Cook

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Christchurch

    Aoraki/Mount Cook

    Canterbury

Day 8

Mount Cook National Park to Queenstown via Kawerau Gorge

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Mount Cook National Park to Queenstown via Kawerau Gorge

Today, you'll leave Mount Cook National park and travel to Queenstown. You'll pass through the gliding capital of New Zealand - Omarama - before ascending the Lindis Pass. Continue through the Kawarau Gorge and towards the Gibbston Valley, one of New Zealand's premier wine-growing regions. See the historic Kawarau Bridge where you can bungee jump or watch others take the plunge. Approaching the adventure capital of New Zealand, the Remarkables mountain range comes into view.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Copthorne Hotel & Apartments4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    QueenstownOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park to Queenstown

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Aoraki/Mount Cook

    Queenstown

Day 9

Discover the Scenic Spots and Fun Activities in Queenstown

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Discover the Scenic Spots and Fun Activities in Queenstown

Although celebrated as New Zealand's ‘adventure capital’ Queenstown offers far more than a fast-paced action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic and scenic wonders. Head to the Gibbston Valley to sample wines, check out nearby historic Arrowtown or get that adrenaline rush with a Shotover Jet, Nevis Bungy, Canyon Swing, Zipline, Luge or Heli-ski.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Copthorne Hotel & Apartments4 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Explore Queenstown & Its SurroundsOptional Activity

    Jet Boating on the Shotover RiverOptional Activity

    Skyline Gondola & Three Luge RidesOptional Activity

    TSS Earnslaw Cruise to Walter Peak with Gourmet DinnerOptional Activity

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Queenstown

    Walter Peak

Day 10

Crown Range Road to Wanaka, Haast Pass and the West Coast

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Crown Range Road to Wanaka, Haast Pass and the West Coast

Today, crossing the Crown Range - the highest sealed road in the country - you'll pass through the alpine town of Wanaka. Then, you'll enter the township of Makarora, the gateway to Mt. Aspiring National Park. Stretch your legs on a walk to Blue Pools, before you continue toward the West Coast. Crossing the Haast River, you are now truly in the wild west - a 600 kilometre stretch of bush, rainforest and podocarp forest. Continue on to arrive in Fox Glacier, your destination for the night.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Heartland Hotel Fox Glacier3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    Blue Pools Walk at MakaroraOptional Activity

    The Helicopter Line Fox Glacier Twin LandingOptional Activity

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Queenstown to Fox Glacier

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Queenstown

    Otago

    Fox Glacier

Day 11

Drive Along the West Coast Road and Take the TranzAlpine Train to Christchurch

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Drive Along the West Coast Road and Take the TranzAlpine Train to Christchurch

Today, the drive north from Fox and Franz Josef takes you through the historic gold mining region of Ross and the town of Hokitika. The largest town on the West Coast, Greymouth is also the starting point for the Tranz Alpine Scenic Train. Drop your rental car and embark on a journey crossing the south from Greymouth to Christchurch on one of the worlds greatest train journeys. You'll see lush beech forest, deep river valleys and the spectacular peaks of the Southern Alp.

  • accommodation icon
    Accommodation

    Heartland Hotel Cotswold3 star

    Note: We will endeavor to book the aforementioned hotels. If, however, we are unable to secure them due to circumstances out of our control, we will replace them with hotels of similar value and standard.
  • activities icon
    Activities

    TranzAlpine Scenic Train Greymouth to Christchurch

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Rental Car from Fox Glacier to Greymouth

    Private Driver from Christchurch to Heartland Hotel Cotswold

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Fox Glacier

    Greymouth

    Christchurch

  • notes icon
    Notes

    Drop your rental car at the Greymouth Train Station depot located inside the train station building.

Day 12

Goodbye New Zealand!

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Goodbye New Zealand!

This morning, a private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to Christchurch Airport in time for your departing flight.

  • transportations icon
    Transportations

    Private Driver from Heartland Hotel Cotswold to Christchurch International Airport

  • meals icon
    Meals

    Breakfast

  • destination icon
    Destinations

    Christchurch

Included in Price

  • 11 nights accommodation
  • 2 activities
  • 11 breakfasts
  • Airport transfer
  • Ground transportation

Not Included in Price

  • Alcohol beverages
  • Domestic flights
  • Entrance fees
  • Entry visas / airport departure tax
  • Gratuities
  • International flights
  • Laundry
  • Licensed English speaking guides
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Trekking permits
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