22 Days Both Islands

Collect your compact SUV and settle into your 3.5–4 star accommodation. Explore the City of Sails at your leisure — enjoy waterfront dining or take a walk through the vibrant Viaduct Harbour.

Set sail on a scenic cruise around the Bay of Islands’ famous Hole in the Rock. Spot dolphins, seabirds, and stunning coastal scenery before returning to Auckland for a relaxing evening.

Drive north to the subtropical Bay of Islands. Relax on golden beaches or explore charming coastal towns, setting the scene for the North Island’s natural beauty.

Spend the day discovering the area at your own pace. Optional activities include kayaking, sailing, or exploring historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds.

Travel south via the Waitomo Caves, marveling at glowworms in the magical underground formations. Continue to geothermal Rotorua and settle into your two-night stay.

Start the day with a 2.5-hour guided tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set. In the afternoon, explore Rotorua’s Hells Gate geothermal walks, mud baths, and spa experiences for a unique cultural and natural immersion.

Enjoy Rotorua by day, then experience an evening of Māori culture at TE PA TU. Witness traditional performances, storytelling, and hangi feasts for an unforgettable cultural evening.

Drive to Napier, the Art Deco capital, known for its vineyards and sunshine. Explore local wineries or enjoy a relaxed coastal afternoon before your one-night stay.

Continue south to the capital city, Wellington. Explore Te Papa Museum, the waterfront, or Cuba Street’s cafés and shops during your two-night stay.

Discover Wellington at your own pace or join optional experiences in the city’s thriving arts, food, and cultural scene.

Board the Interislander Ferry to cross Cook Strait. Arrive in the picturesque Marlborough region, home to some of New Zealand’s finest wineries. Spend the night in tranquil surrounds.

Drive south to Christchurch for a two-night stay. Explore the revitalised city centre or enjoy the riverside gardens.

Discover Christchurch at your own pace — botanic gardens, local cafés, or optional adventure activities like punting on the Avon River.

Travel through the Southern Alps to the West Coast. Settle into Franz Josef for a two-night stay, surrounded by mountains and rainforest.

Explore Franz Josef Glacier country with a guided cruise and rainforest walk. Discover glacial landscapes and lush native forest, a perfect combination of adventure and nature.

Drive through breathtaking alpine scenery to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital, for a two-night stay.

Ascend the Queenstown Skyline Gondola for panoramic views. Take three exhilarating luge rides and finish the day with an optional thrill on the Shotover Jetboat.

Travel to Te Anau for a two-night stay, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Enjoy lakeside strolls or local cafés in the afternoon.

Embark on a scenic coach tour to Milford Sound and cruise beneath towering cliffs and waterfalls. Lunch is included aboard the vessel before returning to Te Anau.

Drive to Dunedin, the South Island’s historic city. Enjoy a two-night stay, exploring heritage architecture, local cafés, and the city’s Scottish charm.

Journey to Mount Cook for a one-night stay. Marvel at New Zealand’s highest peak, explore alpine trails, or simply take in the surrounding majestic landscapes.

On your way to Christchurch, stop at the iconic Larnach Castle & Gardens to explore the historic rooms and beautifully landscaped gardens. Complete your journey by returning your vehicle and departing Christchurch, taking home memories of an epic two-island adventure.