Overview
One of our most popular self-drive itineraries, there’s no better way to explore the best of New Zealand. Covering both islands, you will visit beautiful bays, dramatic geysers, fertile farmland and rolling vineyards.
| Duration | 25 days / 24 nights |
|---|---|
| Starts | Christchurch, South Island |
| Ends | Auckland, North Island |
| Destinations | Auckland, Bay of Islands, Christchurch, Dunedin, Franz Josef, Marlborough, Milford Sound, Napier, Queenstown, Rotorua, Te Anau, Tekapo, Wellington |
| Code | ANZ2525DNS |
Inclusions
- 24 nights in 4-star accommodation
- TranzAlpine Train from Christchurch to Greymouth
- TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner
- 24 Days Car Hire in a Compact SUV or similar
- Milford Sound Coach & Cruise with lunch
- Entry to Larnach Castle & Gardens
- Interislander Ferry from Picton to Wellington
- Te Pa Tu Evening Cultural Experience
- Hobbiton Movie Set Tour ex The Shires Rest
- Half Day Hole in the Rock Cruise
Pricing & Dates
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Itinerary
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Collect your compact SUV and settle into your 4-star accommodation. Explore the city’s waterfront, enjoy vibrant dining options, or relax after your flight.
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Embark on a scenic Half-Day Hole in the Rock Cruise in the Bay of Islands. Marvel at coastal cliffs, spot dolphins, and soak in the stunning seascapes before returning to Auckland for the evening.
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Travel south to the Hobbiton Movie Set. Enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour through the Shire, including a stop at The Shires Rest for refreshments. Continue to Rotorua and settle in for a two-night stay.
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Experience Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes with a walk at Hells Gate, including mud baths and spa indulgence. Optional sightseeing or lakeside dining in the evening.
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Spend the day at leisure in Rotorua, then enjoy a captivating evening at TE PA TU, with Māori performances, storytelling, and traditional hangi feasts.
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Drive along scenic countryside to Napier for a one-night stay. Explore Art Deco streets, sample local wines, or relax by the coast.
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Journey south to New Zealand’s capital. Check in to your accommodation and explore the waterfront, cafés, and cultural highlights during a two-night stay.
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Spend the day discovering Wellington’s attractions, from Te Papa Museum to Cuba Street. Optional tours or simply enjoy the city’s lively food and coffee scene.
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Board the Interislander Ferry to cross Cook Strait. Arrive in Marlborough for a night amid vineyards and peaceful scenery.
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Drive south to Christchurch. Explore the city or relax in your 4-star accommodation for a two-night stay.
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Board the iconic TranzAlpine for a journey through the Southern Alps, rivers, and valleys. Return to Christchurch in the evening.
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Drive south to Queenstown. In the afternoon/evening, board the TSS Earnslaw for a cruise across Lake Wakatipu, followed by a gourmet BBQ dinner at Walter Peak Station.
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Ascend the Queenstown Skyline Gondola for panoramic views, then enjoy three thrilling luge rides. Explore Queenstown’s shops and waterfront in the evening.
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Take an optional Shotover Jetboat adventure through narrow canyons, or enjoy a relaxed day exploring Queenstown’s lakeside cafés and boutique shops.
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Drive to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the lake before your two-night stay.
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Take a small group coach to Milford Sound and enjoy a scenic cruise beneath towering cliffs and waterfalls, with lunch included. Return to Te Anau for the evening.
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Journey along the West Coast to Franz Josef, passing rainforest, rivers, and mountains. Check in for a two-night stay amid glacier country.
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Explore the iconic Franz Josef Glacier region with a guided rainforest walk. Optional helicopter flights or glacier experiences available for an adventurous day.
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Drive east through alpine scenery to Mount Cook for a one-night stay. Admire New Zealand’s tallest peak, enjoy short walks, or simply take in the magnificent surroundings.
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Journey south to Dunedin for a two-night stay. Explore the city’s Scottish heritage, historic architecture, and local cafés.
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Spend the day discovering Dunedin’s highlights, from Otago Peninsula wildlife to Larnach Castle & Gardens. Experience the region’s rich history and scenic charm.
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Drive back to Christchurch, the final stop on your journey. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening.
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Spend your last two days at leisure exploring Christchurch — botanic gardens, riverside walks, or optional city tours.
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Return your vehicle and depart, taking home memories of North and South Island highlights, from geothermal wonders and Hobbiton to fjords, glaciers, and alpine adventures.
Terms and Conditions
Back to topPackage price is based on 2 people and are priced in Australian Dollars. Pricing is correct at the time of submission but is subject to change without notice. Valid for travel from 15 Jan 25 – 06 Mar 26. Flights are not included. Blackout periods and surcharges may apply over special event periods and over school holidays. Car hire pickup Greymouth/Drop off Auckland Airport. Car hire is with Ezi Car & is based on a Mitsubishi ASX Auto or similar with pick up Greymouth Train Station & drop off at Auckland Airport. Vehicle excess is Nil. Airport fees & one-way fees (NZ$250) to be paid direct on vehicle collection. Snow chains are required when travelling to Milford Sound between 01 May – 30 November. Inclusions are subject to change based on supplier operational capabilities.
Resources
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Iconic New Zealand Itineraries
Discover some of New Zealand's most popular touring routes as seen in the latest edition of NZ Book 2025-2026.