9-Day South Island Self-Drive from Christchurch to Queenstown

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Today, you'll spend the day at the International Antarctic Centre which is home to a huge range of experiences guaranteed to entertain the whole family. You can chill in the incredible Antarctic storm room, take on an all-terrain vehicle tour or make friends with penguins and huskies. Famously, you'll learn about the first expeditions, modern-day life on Scott Base and the future of humanity on the ice.

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With 22 outdoor thermal pools including the new cascades, relaxing rock pools, soothing sulphur pools, an array of water jets and bubbles; the thermal pools of Hanmer Springs are the perfect place to stop off on your way to Greymouth from Christchurch. Upon arrival in Greymouth in the afternoon, you'll check into your accommodation and then have the rest of the day and evening to explore the town, perhaps rent bicycles or even go on a hike.

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Travelling along the West Coast is an iconic drive in New Zealand. Today, you'll leave Greymouth behind in search of seascapes, glaciers and mountains. Your first stop on the way to Franz Josef will be in the seaside town of Hokitika, known for its thriving community of local artists, its collection of grand buildings from the gold rush days and its West Coast wilderness. You'll arrive in Franz Josef in time for your glacier valley walk with a local guide - a truly thrilling experience!

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Today, you'll begin your journey with a stop at Franz Josef's twin glacier, the Fox Glacier. A sprawling puzzle of ice, Foz Glacier is tucked into the foothills of the Southern Alps. Both a town and a glacier, the Fox Glacier descends down from the alps into temperate rainforest. For the best view of the glacier, head to Lake Matheson, one of the most photographed lakes in New Zealand, which reflects Mount Cook on a clear day. In the afternoon, you'll arrive at the beautiful Lake Wanaka.

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Today, you'll make the short journey from Wanaka to Queenstown, New Zealand's ultimate adventure destination which sits amongst some of the most spectacular natural scenery. Travellers from all over the world flock to Queenstown to experience activities such as skiing, 4x4 driving, golf and ziplining. Water sports like kayaking, jet boating and river rafting are the perfect way to enjoy Queenstown’s beautiful lakes. Today, you can take advantage of the number of activities on offer!

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Experience the thrill of jet boating on Queenstown's beautiful Lake Wakatipu and up the Kawarau River today! The famous bright orange jet boats will transport you into a world of action and adventure, with the famous 95 km/h speeds and 360-degree spins, this is an activity that is sure to delight the whole family. You'll cruise over the lake and shoot through the dam and onto the mouth of the beautiful Kawarau River in one thrilling ride!

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Today, you'll travel 3.5 hours to Dunedin, your final stop on this wonderful self-drive trip. In the afternoon, you'll explore the city on a guided Heritage Highlights Walk. At the Octagon, you will learn how Dunedin has evolved. At St. Paul's Cathedral, you'll learn why an Anglican cathedral occupies a prominent site in what was a staunchly Scottish, Presbyterian town. Finally, you'll stop at Dunedin Railway Station to gain special insight into what is arguably New Zealand's finest building.