Natural Wonders of New Zealand - 17 Days Budget Self Drive Tour

17 Great Days – Natural Wonders New Zealand

Budget Self Drive Tour New Zealand 2024/2025

Our New Zealand Self Drive Tours 4.9/5
4.9/5

Experience a New Zealand that is magnificent, stunning and authentic.

 

Among nature lovers, New Zealand is considered one of the last adventure areas that has been largely spared from mass tourism. This great New Zealand Tour package is bookable from
Auckland-Christchurch or from Christchurch-Auckland.

 

On the other side of the world, opposite Europe, New Zealand’s North and South Island extend over a length of 1600 kilometres. Endless beaches, fiords, fern forests and geysers, the magnificent mountain world of the Southern Alps, as well as endless pastures, open up a multitude of unique opportunities for nature lovers. Hardly any other part of our world offers so many different landscapes in a relatively small area. The spectacular landscapes and the species-rich flora and fauna are the focus of this journey.

The natural beauty of our National Parks is one of the most impressive experiences of this tour. A boat trip in Milford Sound will certainly remain unforgettable. Covering the best features of both islands you will travel in comfort and by your own paste. Your accommodation  is waiting for you.

This tour package can be customized to suit your requirements precisely. All our self drive tours can also be booked with a chauffeur/tour guide as a private tour option! Please let us know your special requests.

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p.P. in Double Room or Twin Share from:

NZD 3,695.00

 
  • *) Please note:
    • All Prices in New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
    • Daily Departures
    • Itinerary Auckland-Christchurch NZD 3.845.00 p.P.
    • Itinerary Christchurch-Auckland NZD 3,695.00 p.P.

  • Tour Options:
    • Upgrade/Downgrade options (accommodation category, rental car category, length of tour, optional experiences, etc.)
New Zealand Tours Sepcialist Tour Operator DMC
New Zealand Tourism Board certified specialist

Please look at our other New Zealand self-drive tours and if you can’t find the right tour- no problem! We are happy to offer you the perfect New Zealand holiday.
Get in touch with us! Behind this website are real people who want to share their enthusiasm and expertise for this country. You enjoy New Zealand and your round trip, we take care of the rest.

Included within this package:

 

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  • Accommodation, 16 Nights
    • 1 Night at Copthorne Hotel Auckland City – 1 x Double Room BB
    • 2 Nights at Aotearoa Lodge & Conference Centre – 1 x Standard Studio BB
    • 2 Nights at Distinction Rotorua Hotel & Conference Centre – 1 x Double Room BB
    • 1 Night at The Park Hotel Ruapehu- 1 x Double Room BB
    • 1 Night at West Plaza Hotel- 1 x Standard Room BB
    • 2 Nights at The Beachcomber – 1 x Studio Room BB
    • 1 Night at Punakaiki Tavern- 1 x Studio Unit BB
    • 1 Night at Lake Matheson Motel- 1 x Studio BB (Breakfast at Lake Matheson Café)
    • 2 Nights at Blue Peaks Lodge & Apartments- 1 x Studio Kitchen Unit BB (Breakfast at CocoCabana by Frank)
    • 1 Night at Fiordland Hotel & Motel – 1 x Deluxe Room BB
    • 1 Night at MacKenzie Country Hotel- Standard Room BB
    • 1 Night at Breakfree On Cashel – City Urban Premium BB
  • Rental car hire:
    • Vehicle according to the booked category
    • Rental car insurance: Fully inclusive
    • Unlimited kms, additional drivers
    • airport/ferry terminal fees
  • Tour & Activity Pack: (can be customized to suit you precisely)
    • Interislander Ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton for foot passengers & rental car
  • While in New Zealand 24 hour support
  • Tour Excludes:
    • Flights, Travel Insurance
    • Fuel and parking fees
    • Meals, unless otherwise specified
    • Optional activities

Additional Information:

 

We all know Terms and Conditions are really boring.

 

These are no exception. We fell asleep two times while we wrote them!

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BUT – we need them so that there is no misunderstanding if you decide to change or cancel anything. If you transact through this website then we will give you every chance to read these. Any quotes and bookings undertaken are done so on the understanding that you have read and agree to these terms. Please read here  our Terms & Conditions for payment options and cancellation policy.
We play fair and we know we play with people who play fair!

  • Our tours incl. all tax, fees and admissions
  • All prices are displayed/charged in NZ$ and may vary in your home currency depending on currency conversion rates.
  • This tour price is based on 2 people sharing one room and may vary depending on type of accommodation (Motel, Boutique Lodges, 3-5 Star Hotels). Of course, we can provide more options in type of car, accommodation, also in route and duration of your tour.
  • Stunning and proven New Zealand itineraries

    Accommodations and meals | Activities package: All admissions, tours and activities marked as such in the tour itinerary | Detailed driving information, road maps, route book, and more.

  • Extras for your individual New Zealand Tour holiday

    Numerous additional options and individual tips possible | Tour price options (upgrade/downgrade) possible in Standard, Superior and Luxury categories (3-5 star hotels/motels, boutique lodges, rental car category, tour extension, etc.) | Personal "Meet & Greet" service possible (private shuttle/transport airport, city hotel, cruise terminal, etc.)

  • Rental car incl. all inclusive Insurance with GPS

    All-Inclusive rental insurance or with variable excess | GPS navigation | airport/ferry handling fees | unlimited mileage | additional drivers

  • Ideal prices thanks to daily currency conversion

    Perfect for you: We offer our tours in NZD$  (New Zealand Dollar). Experience has shown that this is often more favourable for our guests during the booking period than a fixed price in your local currency, which may include possible currency fluctuations at the time of travel.
    All prices in New Zealand Dollar (NZD) incl. 15% GST (New Zealand Goods and Services Tax) and incl. all taxes applicable in New Zealand.

  • 24-hours Support while you are in New Zealand

    Details on how you can reach us at any time during your New Zealand holiday - in your time zone - can be found in the travel documentation.

Your daily New Zealand tour details:

 

The following summary lists driving information for each major driving day of your itinerary. Times and distances are based on ideal conditions without stops. Plan to take longer to allow time to explore and enjoy some stops. While in New Zealand we offer 24 hour support – details on how to contact us at any time will be well documented.

Destination Auckland

 

Auckland with its suburbs has over 1 million inhabitants. It is the largest city in the country and spreads generously over a narrow isthmus between the Pacific Ocean and Tasman Sea. Over 60 extinct volcanic cones and craters characterize the landscape, while an endless procession of sails in the harbor is typical of the relaxed way of life here. Auckland was the state capital until 1865 and is today the economic center of New Zealand.

Day 1  Auckland

Copthorne Hotel Auckland City • Auckland
 
Day Notes

Welcome to New Zealand.

After your arrival, you will pick up your rental car at the airport. During the drive to your first accommodation you will get acquainted with the “City of Sails”, as Auckland is often called. Auckland offers a lot of sights and scenic highlights. The 328 meter high “Skytower” is Auckland’s landmark. A visit is recommended during the day, but also especially at sunset with its magnificent views.

Mount Eden, an extinct volcano, is also worth a visit. From there you have a great view of Auckland. Auckland was built exactly on 60 volcanic hills. In the “War Museum” you will learn a lot about the history and culture of the Polynesians. You have numerous opportunities for walks along the harbor or through the shopping centers. In the elegant suburb “Parnell” you can have a coffee while strolling through the shopping mall. This suburb is Victorian in character.

Included
  • Pick up your rental car at Auckland Airport
Recommended/Optional
  • Skytower Orbit 360 Restaurant
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Destination Whitianga

 

Set on the coast of the Coromandel Peninsula’s Mercury Bay, alluring Whitianga is a charming seaside destination best known for Buffalo Beach, a five-kilometer-long stretch of white sand perfect for swimming, fishing, and collecting seashells. There are plenty of other activities on offer, including hiking(through the grand Coromandel Ranges), or kayaking or snorkelling (among bright schools of fish in the secluded Cathedral Cove, where a cathedral-like tunnel separates two tranquil, pristine beaches lapped by calm, turquoise waters). Those seeking an unusual and relaxing experience can dig themselves a private spa bath on Hot Water Beach. Travellers visiting in September can look forward to the Whitianga Scallop Festival, a fun-filled weekend tradition with an emphasis on seafood cuisine and cooking demos.

Day 2   Auckland – Whitianga (Coromandel Peninusla)

Aotearoa Lodge & Conference Centre • Whitianga
 
Day Notes

Today you leave Auckland and in good weather you can see a long mountain silhouette. This mountain range forms the narrow spine of the 80km long Coromandel Peninsula, which juts north like a tongue.

Known for its pristine beaches, misty forests and relaxed atmosphere, the Coromandel Peninsula is one of New Zealand’s most popular vacation destinations. Seen through binoculars across the Gulf of Auckland, Coromandel is everything a big city is not. With its mountainous hinterland covered in native rainforest and more than 400 kilometers of dazzling white sand beaches, it’s rustic, unspoiled and relaxed.

Activities and attractions abound, from fishing and diving to hiking and biking. You might opt for a skydive in Whitianga or a guided kayak tour along the coast.

Included
  • Overnight stay with breakfast
Recommended/Optional
  • Tairua Mt Paku walk
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Day 3  Whitianga (Coromandel Peninsula)

Aotearoa Lodge & Conference Centre • Whitianga
 
Day Notes

Today you can get to know the Coromandel Peninsula with all its contrasts between white beaches, lush green cultivated land, as well as mild mountain ranges, which are still overgrown with thousands of years old primeval forest.

From Hahei you can take an impressive hike to the famous “Cathedral Cove”. It is a one hour hike mostly along the coast with spectacular views before you reach a white beach where you can walk through a cathedral-like cave. 

At the world famous “Hot Water Beach” you can take your own hot bath just a few meters from the Pacific Ocean. Great surfing, cafes and art galleries make this a true Kiwi experience.

Included
  • Overnight stay with breakfast
Recommended/Optional
  • Hahei Cathedral Cove
  • Hotwater Beach
  • Driving Creek Railway
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Destination Rotorua

 

The city of Rotorua has been a spa town since the 1800s, thanks to the many geysers, hot springs and mud pools that can be found in what is one of the world’s most active geothermal fields. The Maori, who considered the region sacred, make up 35% of the population and a popular attraction is discovering their rich culture and traditions. Rotorua is surrounded by lakes, mountains, forests and other natural features that afford visitors the opportunity to try out a number of outdoor activities between relaxing sessions in the hot springs and pools.

Day 4  Whitianga – Rotorua

Distinction Rotorua Hotel & Conference Centre • Rotorua
 
Day Notes

In the morning you will drive to the Bay of Plenty to Rotorua.

The city is known as an art and cultural center of the Maori, but is also considered the steaming thermal region of New Zealand. Rototua was built around numerous hot mineral springs and is the tourist center of the North Island.

A short walk through the public thermal park “Kuirau Park” gives you a first insight of Rotorua with mud pools and a small crater lake.

After the long drive it is recommended to relax in the “Polynesian Spa”. The spa is directly on the lake and has different pools with different temperatures (private pools can also be rented).  They are fed from special healing springs. It is especially nice to visit on a clear evening.

Included
  • Overnight stay with breakfast
Recommended/Optional
  • Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
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Day 5

Distinction Rotorua Hotel & Conference Centre • Rotorua
 
Day Notes

Today we recommend to see some of Rotorua’s main attractions.

Colorful sinter terraces, geyser eruptions, bubbling mudholes and stinking fumes from sulfur fumaroles can be seen at Te Puia. TePuia has a brand new Kiwi Conservation Centre. Traditional Māori carving and weaving is performed before your eyes, including wood, stone and bone carving and flax weaving.

Kaituna white water rafting is an attraction for the adventurous. Your raft will take you through native forests, steep gorges and many swirling rapids. You will paddle and roll through spectacular scenery in the Kahikitea Forest.

Included

Overnight stay with breakfast

Recommended/Optional
  • Redwoods Treewalk at nigh
  • Te Puia
  • Polynesian Spa
  • Agrodome Sheep Shearing Show
  • National Kiwi Hatchery
  • Mitai Maori Village
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Destination Tongariro National Park

 

National Park, situated in the North Island Central Plateau of New Zealand, is a small wilderness town sandwiched between the historic Tongariro National Park to the east and the spectacular Whanganui National Park to the west. This charming town is the perfect base for adventure seekers and nature lovers, flaunting lush green vegetation and sprawling views over the mountain trio of Mount Tongariro, Mount Ngauruhoe and Mount Ruapehu; while being the gateway to the wonderful hiking and biking opportunities of the Tongariro National Park and canoeing trips down the mighty Whanganui River in the Whanganui National Park. In wintertime, this magical destination’s snow-capped mountainous surroundings offer some of the best snow skiing and snow boarding around.

Day 6  Rotorua – Tongariro National Park

The Park Hotel Ruapehu • National Park
 
Day Notes

In the morning you will drive towards Taupo. A photo stop is possible at the Huka Falls. These waterfalls are located in a narrow gorge through the Waikato River.

Continue to Tongariro National Park, which is becoming one of the most popular parks due to its ever-changing, sometimes moon-like landscape and spectacular views. You will look at Mt. Tongariro (1968 m), its sister volcanoes Mt. Ngauruhoe (2291 m) and Mt. Ruapehu (2797 m).

Included
  • Overnight stay with breakfast
Recommended/Optional
  • Wai-O-Tapu Theramal Wonderland
  • Orakai Valley
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Destination Wellington

 

Located on the south-western tip of North Island on the Cook Strait, Wellington is the constitutional and cultural capital of New Zealand – dubbed ‘the coolest little capital in the world’. With its diverse architecture, world-class museums, cultural attractions and award-winning restaurants, Wellington is a popular destination for both local and international travellers. Due to its location in the ‘Roaring Forties’ the city experiences its fair share of wind and as a result, sailing is a popular activity here – with charters offering the visitors the experience of a relaxed cruise with beautiful views of the city and the surrounding bays.

Day 7  Tongariro National Park – Wellington

West Plaza Hotel • Wellington
 
Day Notes

You will continue south and experience an interesting change of vegetation. The drive through barren steppe land surrounded by peaks up to 2800 m brings you to the green, fertile farm areas Rangitikei and Manawatu. Then, passing the self-proclaimed “gumboot capital” Taihape”, you will head towards the capital city of Wellington.

Wellington is exposed to the wild weather of the Cook Strait and is therefore also called the “Windy City”.  Take a warm jacket with you. If you only have time for one thing, visit the National Museum of New Zealand “Te Papa”, which is located right at the harbor. You will get a deeper insight into Pacific culture and the history of how New Zealand came to be. Wellington has numerous nice cafes with pretty much the best coffee in the country.

The Lookout from the local mountain “Mount Victoria” gives you an unforgettable view over the city to the harbor Port Nicholson. Another highlight is the “Cable Car”, a small train that goes up to the Botanical Garden. From there you can take a leisurely walk back to your hotel.

Included
  • Overnight stay with breakfast
Recommended/Optional
  • Add a day for the famous Tongariro Crossing (day hike)
  • Kapiti Coast
  • Wellington Te Papa National Museum
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Destination Nelson

 

Over 170 years old, Nelson is New Zealand’s oldest city and has recently made a name for itself as a thriving cultural centre. The city is home to a large number of artists and creatives who are celebrated during an array of popular events. With more than 2500 hours of sunshine, Nelson is also considered the country’s sunniest city, and is a perfect setting in which to enjoy an array of adventure and leisure activities – biking, horse trekking, rock climbing, wine-tasting at local estates, or simply taking in the superb views of the Tasman Bay.

Day 8  Wellington – Nelson (South Island)

The Beachcomber • Nelson
 
Day Notes

In the morning, board the Interislander ferry bound for Picton on the South Island. You will sail across the Cook Strait and through the Marlborough Sounds, an area of “drowned” valleys formed by the geological subsidence of a low mountain range. Steep ridges still bear witness to the original mountains, which today protrude as narrow peninsulas between deep inlets. Continue along Queen Charlotte Drive towards Nelson, the city with the most hours of sunshine in the country.

Included
  • Overnight stay with breakfast
  • Interislander – Ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton for foot passengers & rental cars
Recommended/Optional
  • Blenheim/Marlborough Sound Wine Tasting
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Day 9  Nelson (Abel Tasman National Park)

The Beachcomber • Nelson
 
Day Notes

In the morning, board the Interislander ferry bound for Picton on the South Island. You will sail across the Cook Strait and through the Marlborough Sounds, an area of “drowned” valleys formed by the geological subsidence of a low mountain range. Steep ridges still bear witness to the original mountains, which today protrude as narrow peninsulas between deep inlets. Continue along Queen Charlotte Drive towards Nelson, the city with the most hours of sunshine in the country.

Included
  • Overnight stay with breakfast
Recommended/Optional
  • Abel Tasman Sea Kayaks
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Destination Punakaiki

 

The tiny township of Punakaiki on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island is primarily used by visitors as a base for exploring the nearby Paparoa National Park. The park is best known for its dramatic blowholes and the distinctive Pancake Rocks. These picturesque limestone formations look curiously like stony stacks of pancakes which funnel blasts of water up to 15 m into the air as the waves crash into the caverns below the rocks. Visitors can explore the sub-tropical rainforests, horse ride along the spectacular coastline, paddle a canoe down the tranquil Pororari River, or climb the remarkable limestone formations for which this area is known. The town itself offers some delightful cafes and restaurants and is home to a small community of quirky local craftspeople including jewellers, carvers, painters and potters. This little town is the perfect place to take some time out between excursions into one of the West Coast’s most beautiful and untouched wilderness areas.

Day 10  Nelson – Punakaiki (Pancake Rocks)

Punakaiki Tavern • Punakaiki
 
Day Notes

You will continue through beautiful areas towards the west coast, crossing the spectacular Buller Gorge before reaching Westport. At Cape Foulwind you can hike to a colony of New Zealand fur seals and also to the lighthouse. You will leave Westport behind and drive along the picturesque Paparoa National Park. A short walk will take you to the “Pancake Rocks.” The rocks look like pancakes: soft layers were washed out by the gnawing Tasman Sea. At high tide, the churning sea here offers a spectacular spectacle.

Included
  • Overnight stay with breakfast
Recommended/Optional
  • Cape Faulwind Walk
  • Pancake Rocks
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Destination Fox Glacier

 

The South Island’s West Coast is a unique 600 km coast with the wild mountain world of the Southern Alps. This low populated region has sixteen different glaciers, many peaceful lakes and untamed rivers. The “Coasters” are proud of living in good harmony with the wild and original nature at their doorsteps. The lifestyle of the pioneer era is still omnipresent here – more than anywhere else in New Zealand. The West Coast rains have created an almost fairy-tale rain forest. Moss clad trees and fern trees are typical. We make a stop at Hokitika for the famous Jade manufactory.
Next we continue our tour to Franz Josef, reaching the Southern Alps.
There are not many areas in the world where one can watch seals and penguins at the beach, wander through the dense rain forest and walk on the eternal ice of the glaciers – all in one day. The Westland National Park offers these contrasts. The ice streams of the Franz Josef and the Fox glaciers start at approximately 3000 meters altitude and reach into the rain forests on a level of 300 meters. This makes both glaciers unique in the world.

Day 11  Punakaiki – Fox Glacier

Lake Matheson Motel • Fox Glacier
 
Day Notes

Along the West Coast you will continue through historic gold mining areas to the glaciers. The west coast is also known for its jade or greenstone deposits. In Hokitika this precious rock is processed into beautiful jewelry.

In Franz Josef you reach the Southern Alps and now have the mountain range directly in front of you. As a natural weather barrier, the high mountain ridge is responsible for one of the most extreme rainfall regimes. These once huge glacier tongues have pushed down in their valleys to just 250 meters above sea level, but for some time now they have been retreating at a rapid rate.

 If you have never seen a glacier before, you will be especially thrilled by a helicopter sightseeing flight or a glacier tour.

Included
  • Overnight stay with breakfast
Recommended/Optional
  • Heli Flight with Snow Landing
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Destination Queenstown

 

Queenstown is situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and has stunning views of the surrounding alpine peaks. Considered by many as one of the world’s adventure capitals, it offers visitors a wide selection of adrenaline-boosting activities to choose from, such as bungee jumping, white water rafting, zip lining, skiing and skydiving. Queenstown also has a lively bar and restaurant scene, and for those who prefer the quieter things in life there are vineyards, golf courses, spas and wellness centres.

Day 12  Fox Glacier – Queenstown

Blue Peaks Lodge & Apartments • Queenstown
 
Day Notes

Truly spectacular are not only the wild beaches and glaciers of the west coast, but also the hikes in the rainforest.  Continuing your journey through evergreen rainforest, you will reach Lake Moeraki. Over the Haast Pass, climate and watershed of the Southern Alps, past the high mountains of the Aspiring National Park, you will reach Queenstown, the ‘adrenaline capital of the world’, where bungy jumping was invented!

Included
  • Overnight stay with breakfast
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Day 13  Queenstown

Blue Peaks Lodge & Apartments • Queenstown
 
Day Notes

Queenstown is located in a beautiful setting, with gorgeous lake and mountain views, The best view is from Bob’s Peak.

Besides jet boating and bungy jumping, you can also go rafting, rappelling, skydiving, ziplining, paragliding, delta flying, motocrossing, canyoneering, heli-skiing, off-roading, tobogganing, rock climbing, snowshoeing, take a cruise, zipriding, indoor climbing, golfing, quad biking, mountain biking, feed the ducks or take a wine tour.

Included
  • Overnight stay with breakfast
Recommended/Optional
  • Wanaka Tree
  • AJ Hacket Bungy
  • TSS Earnslaw historic steamship cruise and
  • Walter Peak Sheep farm BBQ Dinner
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Destination Te Anau

 

Te Anau is situated in the southern region of New Zealand’s South Island, on the eastern bank of Lake Te Anau (the largest lake on South Island). The town is the perfect gateway to the unique and awe-inspiring geographical attractions of Milford Sound (boasting rich marine life and spectacular views), and the Fiordland National Park (offering the excellent Kepler, Routeburn, and Milford hiking and biking trails among astonishing landscapes). However, beautiful Te Anau has plenty to offer in its own right. Active travellers can enjoy water sports on the lake, such as kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and trout fishing, while gentle boat cruises provide a more leisurely option. Make sure to visit the incredible Te Anau Caves to see other-worldly displays of glowworms and an impressive underground waterfall, and visit the beautiful native birds at the Punanga Manu o Te Anau aviary.

Day 14  Queenstown – Te Anau (Milford Sound)

Fiordland Hotel • Te Anau
 
Day Notes

Short drive to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

Today you will have the opportunity to take a cruise on Milford Sound. You will drive into Fiordland National Park, New Zealand’s largest and also most undeveloped national park. To the west, 14 fjords penetrate deep into the primeval forests of a rugged alpine world like overlong ocean tongues. Not far, snow-capped mountain peaks rise above alpine grass mats to 2700m. You drive along the spectacular Milford Road. At Homner Tunnel you often see the cheeky Keas, the only mountain parrots in the world. At noon you depart for the Milford Sound cruise, gliding out almost to the Tasman Sea. 

‘Te Anau Wildlife Centre’ is another recommended attraction where you have a good chance of seeing takahe, kea and kaka. A bit more touristy is the popular cruise to the ‘Te Anau Glowworm Caves.

Included
  • Overnight stay with breakfast
Recommended/Optional
  • Milford Sound Cruise
  • Te Anau Glowworm Caves
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Destination Twizel

 

Twizel is set in the highlands of the Mackenzie district, amidst a magnificent setting of turquoise glacial lakes, sienna plains, and rugged snow-capped mountains. Thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts will be in their element here, with the region’s natural assets lending themselves to a wide array of adventure activities including trekking, mountain biking, and helicopter rides, to horse riding, canoeing, fly fishing, and SUPping. The town offers a fantastic ongoing market and enticing shops, cafes, and restaurants. Twizel is also the gateway to excursions through the popular Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, known for its spectacular scenery and multitude of hiking trails, and the wider UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, renowned for the beauty of its star-studded skies. Make sure to play a game of mini-golf at the Twizel-themed miniature golf course, which features holes named after local farms.

Day 15  Te Anau – Twizel (MacKenzie Country)

MacKenzie Country Hotel • Twizel
 
Day Notes

Continue inland through the McKenzie Country. Sparse rainfall makes this highland appear as a barren steppe landscape. Wide “tussock” meadows, which cover the hills like a carpet, transform the landscape into a strange looking inner alpine basin landscape. At Lake Pukaki you will have the opportunity to admire the magnificent glaciers of Mt. Cook. The Maori call the with 3754m highest mountain of New Zealand “Aorangi”, the “cloud piercer”. 

You can fish for salmon and trout in the local rivers, canals and lakes. If you are not lucky, visit the salmon farm and buy a fish – fresh or smoked.

Included
  • Overnight stay with breakfast
Recommended/Optional
  • Stargazing Experience
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Destination Christchurch

 

Despite the devastating earthquakes of 2010 and 2011, Christchurch was placed second on The New York Times’ list of 52 ‘Places to Go’ in 2014. This speaks volumes of the spirit of this city and its people, whose collective creativity has seen a number of restorative art projects developed on the empty lots and buildings the disasters left behind. The city also offers a fabulous array of activities, including punting down the Avon River, helicopter tours, hot-air ballooning and whale and dolphin watching. Or stroll around the Botanic Gardens.

Day 16  Twizel – Christchurch

BreakFree on Cashel • Christchurch
 
Day Notes

The drive continues through the vast farmlands of the Canterbury Plain to Christchurch. The city is the largest metropolitan area in the South Island and was once one of the most beautiful cities in New Zealand until the city center was destroyed in an earthquake in the spring of 2011.

Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island and is often referred to as the “most English city outside of England.” It is also known as the “Garden City” because of its many beautiful parks and private gardens. In the evening we recommend dinner at the “Tramway Restaurant”, where you will take a round trip on the streetcar.

Included
  • Overnight stay with breakfast
Recommended/Optional
  • Church of the good Shepherd
  • Christchurch Gondola
  • Christchurch historic Tram Dinner
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End of Itinerary

Day 17  Christchurch

 
 
Day Notes

Drive to Christchurch airport and drop off your rental car. You will fly towards your next destination. Have a good onward journey.

Included
  • Return of the rental car at Christchurch airport
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"What I loved about this tour was that the guide was not afraid to get off the beaten track and show us the real country. This was an experience I would definitely want to come back to."
Alene Elvine
HR Manager
“Our guide was everything I hoped for, and more. Great Days really makes a difference, I would have never discovered the beautiful places we stopped at."
Jona Gerber
Designer

Get in touch for your unforgettable New Zealand holiday. That’s what we are here for. Behind this website are real people who are at your disposal with expertise and passion for this extraordinary place in the world. We know where to go as we live here – and we are looking forward to sharing our hidden gems with you.

Enjoy the Holiday of a lifetime