22 Great Days – Ultimate Golf Tour New Zealand
Premium Self-Drive Tour
Play some of New Zealand’s finest golf courses and stay in some of our finest luxury Retreats and Lodges.
The unforgettable world-class golfing experience – plus outstanding activity package.
Not only does New Zealand have stunning scenery, superb lodges and hotels but we are also lucky enough to have nearly 400 golf courses. On this journey you get to play some of the country’s best courses in breathtaking landscapes, stay in some of the finest locations and experience thrilling activities like the Huka Falls Jetboat Tour, Mt Cook Ultimate Scenic Flight and an exclusive Helicopter Tour to Milford Sound including Overnight Cruise.
Experience the very best of New Zealand golf on these world-ranked courses, set in breathtaking locations. With dramatic scenery, greenery, long stretches of coast and soaring mountains, New Zealand is a natural playground. Marquee golf courses have been designed to make the most of the natural terrain and to show off the best scenery. A golf holiday in New Zealand is guaranteed to impress. Come for the golf and stay for a while to experience exquisite food and wine, adventure activities, quiet nature and seamless hospitality.
- Play and Stay’ at some of the most reputable places in the world.
- Please study our outstanding itinerary below!
- Interactive itinerary Ultimate Golf Tour New Zealand Auckland-Christchurch
- We recommend to book optional activities in advance to avoid unnecessary stress and to secure a place at the often highly demanded activities.
p.P. in Double Room or Twin Share from:
NZD 18,280.00
Please note:
- All Prices in New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
- Daily Departures
- Tour Options available
- Upgrades/Downgrades available (4-5+ Star Hotels, Boutique Lodges, Luxury Retreats, Rental Category, Activities, Tour Length, etc.)
Please look at our selection of New Zealand self-drive tours and if you can’t find the right tour – no problem! We are happy to offer you the perfect and customized New Zealand tour. Get in touch with us! Behind this website are real people who want to share their enthusiasm and expertise for this country. Enjoy New Zealand, we take care of the rest.
Included within this package:
- Accommodation: for 21 nights staying in Boutique Lodges, Hotels, Resorts
- Auckland at Hilton Auckland
- Matauri Bay at The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs
- Paihia at Paihia Beach Resort & Spa
- Te Arai at Te Arai Links
- Taupo at Acacia Cliffs Lodge
- Napier at Art Deco Masonic Hotel
- Wellington at QT Wellington
- Blenheim at St. Leonards Vineyard Cottages
- Christchurch at Peppers Clearwater Resort
- Mount Cook Village at Hermitage Mount Cook
- Queenstown at Kamana Lakehouse
- Arrowtow at Millbrook Resort
- Dunedin at Camp Estate at Larnach Castle
- Christchurch at The George
- Meals:
- Daily Breakfast (cooked, continental, buffet )
- Waiheke Island Wine and Dine, Lunch
- Waitangi traditional Hangi Dinner
- Walter Peak Sheep Farm Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Gourmet BBQ Dinner & Cruise
- Activities:
- Fullers – Auckland, Waiheke Wine and Dine, Lunch,
- The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs Golf Course, 18 Hole Green Fees, Clubs, Golf Cart, for 2 Person
- Waitangi Treaty Grounds, concert & cultural performance
- Fullers Great Sights – Bay of Islands, Hole in the Rock Cruise
- Te Arai Links Golf Club, 18 Hole Green Fees, Clubs, Thumbler, for 2 Person
- The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, 18 Hole Green Fees, Clubs, Golf Cart, Caddie, for 2 Person
- Mission Estate Winery, Opt 2: Taste, Commentary & Cheese Platter
- Marlborough Tour Company, Seafood Odyssea Cruise, Summer opt.
- Clearwater Golf Club, 18 Hole Green Fees, Clubs, Golf Cart, for 2 Person
- The Helicopter Line – Mt Cook, Mount Cook & The Glaciers HLC4
- Milford Sound, Coach & Flight
- Millbrook Resort, 18 Hole Green Fees, Clubs, Golf Cart, for 2 Person
- Ferry/Transfers:
- Interislander Ferry, Wellington – Picton, Premium Lounge, Foot Passengers x2, Vehicle x1
- Milford Sound, Coach & Flight Connetions Real NZ – ex – Piopiotahi x2
- While in New Zealand we offer 24 hour support
Additional Information:
- Interactive itinerary Ultimate Golf Tour New Zealand Auckland-Christchurch
- Before you travel to New Zealand – New Zealand travel tips – Good to know!
- You can travel Auckland-Christchurch or Christchurch-Auckland.
- This tour package can be customized to suit your requirements precisely!
- Please let us know your special request or if you want to stay a bit longer. We will tailor your holiday.
- Bookings are essential even if the tours are operating daily. Please send us your dates for reservations.
We all know Terms and Conditions are really boring.
These are no exception. We fell asleep two times while we wrote them!
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.
Tour Details:
The following summary lists driving information for each major driving day of your itinerary.
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
Hilton Auckland Hotel • Auckland
Day Notes
Welcome to New Zealand! After picking up your rental car (there is a free shuttle between the airport terminal and the rental car station), you can take a tour of the “City of Sails”, as Auckland is affectionately known. From the Auckland Sky Tower you have a fantastic view over the city and in the Auckland Museum you can learn exciting things about the history and culture of the “land of the long white cloud”.
Included
- Rental pick up at the Auckland Airport
Day 2 Auckland/Waiheke Island
Hilton Auckland Hotel • Auckland
Day Notes
Waiheke Island is the most popular island in the Hauraki Gulf for visitors. Regular ferries take you there. The island is home to galleries, craft boutiques, cafes, restaurants and beautifully situated wineries. Perfect white sandy beaches are perfect for swimming and walking, and there are plenty of opportunities for kayaking, biking and guided bus tours.
Included
- Waiheke Island: Wine and Lunch, Inkl. Ferry, Return
Destination Matauri Bay
Idyllically located 30kms north of Kerikeri and the Bay of Islands, in Whangaroa County, Matauri Bay is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful places in Aotearoa New Zealand. With its golden sand beaches and clear, aquamarine waters, this remarkable bay has long been a popular aquatic playground for local and foreign tourists alike. The bay’s spectacular natural features provide an ideal setting for a wide variety of outdoor activities including swimming, fishing, snorkelling, surfing, diving and jet skiing.
Take a stroll up to the ridge above the bay to enjoy some swoon-worthy views over the headland and out to the gorgeous Cavalli Islands. The seabed near to these islands now serves as the final resting place for the famous Greenpeace ship The Rainbow Warrior which has become a living reef, attracting an abundance of marine life and recreational divers. Another popular attraction is Mataatua II, a Maori war canoe built to commemorate the great Pacific migration that brought the Maori people to New Zealand around 700 years ago. Matauri Bay has everything required for a relaxing holiday filled with sand, surf and fun in the sun.
Day 3 Auckland – Matauri Bay
The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs • Matauri Bay
Day Notes
This morning you leave the big city of Auckland. You drive along the “Hibiscus Coast” in the scenically very diverse and charming Northland.
The route is often lined with impressive New Zealand Christmas trees (“Pohutukawa”). Passing Whangarei, the heart of the Northland region, you will reach the picturesque Bay of Islands in the subtropical north in the afternoon. Your destination for the day is Matauri Bay on the Bay of Islands.
Comprised of over 140 subtropical islands, the Bay of Islands is known for its pristine beaches, fantastic fishing and vibrant Maori culture. The Bay of Islands is also home to the former whaling station at Russell, New Zealand’s first colonial capital.
Destination Paihia
Paihia is a tourist town in the Northland Region of New Zealand’s North Island. This popular hub is home to some great sights and attractions, as well as being an excellent gateway to the beaches and dive-sites of the area known as the Bay of Islands. Begin at the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, the site of the signing of New Zealand’s founding document, before heading out of town to visit the spectacular Haruru Falls or the towering Waipoua Kauri Forest.
Finally, cruises depart the Paihia Wharf multiple times per day, giving visitors the chance to explore the Bay of Islands’ many attractions, including swimming with dolphins, sea kayaking, relaxing on beautiful beaches (such as Taiputuputu Pahi Beach) and visiting geological marvels such as Hole in the Rock.
Day 4 Matauri Bay – Paihia (Bay of Islands)
Paihia Beach Resort & Spa • Paihia
Day Notes
Today you will play on one of the best international golf courses:
Kauri Cliffs was designed and built by David Harman of Golf Course Consultants, Orlando, Florida. The par 72 championship golf course measures 7,139 yards / 6,528 meters and offers five sets of tees to challenge any skill level.
All eighteen holes face the Pacific Ocean, six of which are played along the cliffs. The other inland holes meander through swamp, forest and farmland. Kauri Cliffs is currently ranked 37th on Golf Digest’s list of the top 100 golf courses in the world. Kauri Cliffs has recently been refurbished by world renowned golf course architect Rees Jones. The 5th hole has been completely redesigned, converting it from a long uphill forced carry par 3 to a short “drop shot” par 3. Other notable changes included the addition of tees on the 2nd and 9th holes and a bunker refresh on the 4th hole. The golf complex includes a first class driving range, putting and chipping greens, a well stocked golf shop and men’s and women’s locker rooms. Premium rental clubs for men and women are available.
Included
- The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs Golf Course:
- 18 Hole Green Fees
- Caddie incl. Golf Cart
- Rental Clubs
Day 5 Paihia (Bay of Islands)
Paihia Beach Resort & Spa • Paihia
Day Notes
Today you will board a tour boat to explore the Bay of Islands, New Zealand’s subtropical paradise of more than 150 islands. You can admire the famous Hole in the Rock up close and even drive through it if the weather is good. Make a stop at Urupukapuka Island for a Maori cultural experience. You can then learn the ancient art of flax weaving and take a guided tour to a lookout point where you can learn about Maori history.
In the evening you will visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. It was here that 46 Maori chiefs signed the Treaty of Waitangi with the British Crown on February 6, 1840, which remains an important part of the daily life of both cultures. Here you will also enjoy a traditional Hangi, a Maori dish which is prepared underground. At the end of the evening you will also attend a concert where you will be brought closer to the Maori culture.
Included
- Fullers Great Sights – Bay of Islands: Hole in the Rock Cruise
Day 6 Paihia – Te Arai
Te Arai Links • Auckland
Day Notes
Today you drive along the coast towards Te Arai, where another golf highlight awaits you, the Te Arai Links Golf Course:
At Te Arai Links we have been given a magnificent gift, a uniquely special place for golf consisting of sand dunes and wind-sculpted landforms bordering the sea. Te Arai’s landforms vary from billowing sand ridges and winding valleys to crumpled contours reminiscent of the classic coastal compounds where the game began. These contours are the foundation and inspiration for the golf holes at Te Arai Links. The holes are as diverse in appearance and character as the country itself. There are highly individualistic, some would even say quirky holes such as the short par 4s at three, six and sixteen, each reflecting the drama and unique character of the landforms who created their concepts. There are more traditional but equally dramatic holes like the second, tenth and eleventh inland; and there are the visually spectacular seafront holes at seven, eight, nine and fifteen through eighteen. There are slots and finesse holes. There are holes of varying shapes and sizes, with character and golf strategies based on the natural contours that we discovered on site. The South Course at Te Arai Links has sixteen golf holes with ocean views and eight holes that border the ocean. Without question it will be a photogenic and visually stunning golf course.
Included
- Te Ari Links Golf Course:
- 18 Hole Green Fees
- Thumbler
- Rental Clubs
Destination Taupo
Resting at the northern end of Lake Taupo and surrounded by magnificent bush clad mountains, the tidy town of Taupo is distinguished by its picturesque lakefront setting and its excellent opportunities for outdoor activities including sailing, cruising, kayaking, waterskiing, fishing, and snow skiing on the slopes of the towering Mount Ruapehu. The town is surrounded by some exceptional natural attractions such as the dramatic crystal-blue cascades of the Huka Falls, which can be reached via a number of popular hiking and biking trails.
Other highlights include wonderful geothermal pools and the Waipahihi Botanical Reserve. Those seeking more of a cultural experience can head to the lovely Lake Taupo Museum and Art Gallery which features exhibits on the Maori, Volcanic and early European history of the area.
Day 7 Te Arai – Taupo
Acacia Cliffs Lodge • Taupo
Day Notes
Today the journey continues to Lake Taupo. This crater lake was formed by a massive volcanic eruption about 2000 years ago. Then you can visit the foaming Huka Falls or the Craters of the Moon geothermal area and take a stroll among bubbling springs and steam.
Day 8 Taupo
Acacia Cliffs Lodge • Taupo
Day Notes
Today we recommend a visit to the Wairakei Terraces to take part in a traditional hangi. You will be welcomed as a guest (manuhiri) at the visitor center and shown to the courtyard where you will be greeted with an authentic welcome ceremony. After an interesting tour of the Maori village, head to the Dining Hall (Whare Kai) where a meal (Hangi) cooked in the ground awaits you. After the meal you will experience a “Haka Performance” with songs and dances, a unique and emotional experience that you will not soon forget.
Or visit the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, known for its boiling mud pools, white tufa terraces, geysers and bubbling lakes. With its “Painter’s Palette, the Devil’s Inkwell and the Champagne Pool” it is the most colorful of the thermal areas. The main attraction is the Lady Knox Geyser, which erupts up to 20 meters high every morning (10:15 am). Such a geyser is formed when superheated deep water enters a groundwater reservoir, heating it and partially boiling it. As a result, steam suddenly shoots upwards in meter-high water fountains.
Destination Napier
The popular tourist city of Napier on the eastern coast of New Zealand’s North Island is one of the country’s most likeable regional centres. The inner-city streets are lined with palm trees, and the sculpted Marine Parade is sprinkled with numerous lush parks, landscaped gardens and grand memorials, giving the water’s edge its unique character.
Arriving in Napier gives one the distinct feeling of stepping back in time, owing to its unique concentration of remarkably well preserved 1930s art-deco buildings, built after much of the city was destroyed in a massive earthquake in 1931. The city is also known for its gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers and its abundance of world-class wineries on the surrounding plains. This is the place to enjoy a Mediterranean climate, an excellent variety of restaurants and cafes, and the air of an affluent English seaside resort.
Day 9 Taupo – Napier (Hawkes Bay)
Art Deco Masonic Hotel • Napier
Day Notes
Today’s onward journey takes you to Napier!
There you will have the opportunity to take an Art Deco tour with a local guide who will tell you the fascinating story of the earthquake that devastated the city in 1931.
Day 10 Napier (Hawkes Bay)
Art Deco Masonic Hotel • Napier
Day Notes
Today you will get to know again one of the best golf courses in the world:
The golf complex includes a first class driving range, putting and chipping greens, a well stocked golf shop, clubhouse and men’s and women’s locker rooms. Premium rental clubs for men and women are available. Designed by legendary golf architect Tom Doak, the Cape Kidnappers par 71 golf course measures 7,147 yards (6,569 meters) and will challenge golfers of all skill levels. Our spectacular New Zealand golf course, completed in 2004, is recognized as one of golf’s great modern marvels. Cape Kidnappers Golf Course is built on a ridge valley landscape and offers stunning ocean views. He plays high above the ocean on dramatic cliffs. With cliff fairways that are 140 meters above sea level, this course offers holes you won’t find anywhere else in the world. While each hole offers spectacular views of the bay, others are placed alongside deep gorges and some golfers are intimidated by deep bunkers on cliffs and sheer drops from the very edge of the earth.
In the evening we will take part in a wine tour and can then go for a walk on the Marine Parade. Napier is also home to the National Aquarium Center where you can see the national bird, the kiwi, and blue penguins. It is also home to over 100 species of fish.
Included
- The Farm at Cape Kidnappers Golf
- 18 Hole Green Fees
- Caddie incl. Golf Cart
- Club Rentals
- Mission Estate Winery: Wine Tasting & Commentary
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 11 Napier – Wellington
QT Wellington • Wellington
Day Notes
Today you’ll leave Napier and Hawke’s Bay and drive through Wairarapa, a lesser-visited hinterland well known to New Zealanders for wine growing and farming. The drive then takes you to Wellington via the Rimutaka Mountains (alternatively you can take the State Highway via New Plymouth).
New Zealand’s capital “Windy Welly” lies in a beautiful landscape, directly on the Cook Strait, which separates the North Island from the South Island. Founded in 1839 and separating New Zealand’s North Island from the south, the ever-present strong westerly wind earned it its nickname.
Get an interesting insight into the history and culture of New Zealand at the Te Papa National Museum. A must is the ride on the famous cable car that takes you to the Botanical Gardens. From there you have a fantastic view over the city.
In the evening you can go on an easy evening walk through “Zealandia” with a local guide. Here you will see various animals that only become active in the evening hours. If you’re lucky, you may also hear or see the kiwi, an endangered flightless bird and the national symbol of New Zealand.
Destination Blenheim
This remarkably sunny and rather sleepy little town is most commonly used as a base for exploring the town’s surrounding winelands which are home to some of New Zealand’s most fertile and venerated vineyards. The area boasts over 40 excellent wine farms, many of which are conveniently located within a 10km radius of Blenheim. In and around Blenheim you’ll find an impressive array of tempting cafes and restaurants, charming craft shops, artisan food outlets and some world-class golf courses. The nearby Marlborough Sounds provide an ideal setting for a variety for water sports, from kayaking to swimming with dolphins. Popular attractions include the fascinating Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, home to a well restored collection of World War I planes, as well as the Marlborough Museum which showcases a variety of interesting local historical artifacts and also houses Beavertown, a replica street scene based on features of Blenheim around 1900.
Day 12 Wellington – Blenheim (South Island)
St. Leonards Vineyard Cottages • Blenheim
Day Notes
Depart Wellington by ferry early in the morning and cross the Cook Strait to the South Island. The 3-hour trip on the Interislander ferry is very impressive and offers many beautiful photo opportunities. First you’ll pass the Cook Waterway and then glide through the Marlborough Sounds, an area of ’drowned’ valleys created by the geological subsidence of a low mountain range.
Steep mountain ridges still bear witness to the original mountains, which today protrude as narrow peninsulas between deep bays. The steep banks have a fjord-like character in places. Salmon and mussels are farmed in the sun – along with wine production, this is the region’s most important economic sector.
Eventually you will reach Picton. Via a particularly scenic road inland you reach the Marlborough plains, which are known for their wine growing. Blenheim is in the center and is today’s destination.
Included
- Interislander: Wellington to Picton – 2x Foot Passengers incl. Plus upgrade, 1x Car
Day 13 Blenheim (Marlborough Sounds)
St. Leonards Vineyard Cottages • Blenheim
Day Notes
A shuttle will pick you up from your accommodation and take you to the harbor, from where you’ll set off on a catamaran into the interior of the Marlborough Sounds to taste all kinds of fresh seafood – the perfect tour to switch off and relax.
Included
- Marlborough Tour Company: Seafood Odyssea Cruise
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 14 Blenheim – Christchurch
Peppers Clearwater Resort • Christchurch
Day Notes
Today we drive south along the east coast. Sperm whales are regularly sighted off the coast of Kaikoura, attracted by the abundant food available in the warm ocean currents. With a bit of luck you can watch Hector’s or Dusky’s dolphins from the shore as they elegantly and acrobaticly dart out of the water. There is a seal colony nearby and New Zealand fur seals can also be spotted lying in the water and on the rocky shore. Seabirds of all kinds (sometimes even the majestic albatrosses) frequent Kaikoura’s often rugged coastline and glide effortlessly through the skies. Then we continue to discover the garden city of New Zealand, as Christchurch is also affectionately known. The largest city in the South Island is a vibrant, cosmopolitan place with exciting theatres, diverse shopping and other attractions.
Explore the city center on the historic tram. The tram also has a restaurant car where you can dine in style. Dine in style on the restored historic tram, in an air-conditioned carriage. Experience a unique blend of old and new on a sightseeing tour through the heart of the rebuilt city center.
Alternatively, you can take the modern gondola (cable car) up Mount Cavendish. Four person cabins take you to an altitude of approximately 500m where you can enjoy a breathtaking 360 degree panorama of the Southern Alps, the Port Hills and Lyttelton, Christchurch Harbour. A small museum in the interesting building explains the history of the Banks Peninsula and the first settlers.
Day 15 Christchurch
Peppers Clearwater Resort • Christchurch
Day Notes
Today is also crowned with golf! You play at the famous Clearwater Golf Club:
At the Clearwater Golf Course, 18 great holes with 6 tee options flow through manicured greens and fairways and offer a golfing experience that few destinations can match. We have hosted international professional golf for 13 consecutive years and look forward to offering you the same rewarding experience.
Golf legend Sir Bob Charles and course designer John Darby dreamed of an immaculately challenging golf course. A course to excite players and test the best in the world. A course Christchurch and New Zealand could be proud of. In just two decades, Clearwater has become that course. At Clearwater, we’re proud to be the home of champions, future champions, and everyone who loves the game. Play where Lydia Ko set a course and career record while ranked No. 1 in the world. Follow in the footsteps of international major champions and Clearwater graduates like Michael Campbell, Jason Dufner, Bubba Watson, Jason Day and Jimmy Walker. Clearwater has hosted prestigious championships since 2002, including eight NZPGA Championships, two New Zealand Men’s Opens and four New Zealand Women’s Opens. Join us and let Clearwater do its best.
Included
- Clearwater Golf Club:
- 18 Hole Green Fees
- Electric Golf Cart
- Club Rentals
Destination Aoraki/Mount Cook Village
Mount Cook Village (also known as Aoraki) is located near the west coast of the South Island of New Zealand. This retreat – lying within the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park – is an absolute must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering an outstanding wilderness experience. The national park, which has been given UNESCO World Heritage status, is home to New Zealand’s highest mountain, its longest glacier its darkest night skies. In addition to hiking trails to suit all fitness levels, the area also offers boat tours along Terminal Lake (the end of the Tasman Glacier), 4×4 adventures, and world-renowned stargazing opportunities, while the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre boasts a 3D theatre and a planetarium.
Day 16 Christchurch – Lake Tekapo – Mount Cook
Hermitage Mount Cook • Mount Cook Village
Day Notes
On the way you pass Tekapo and continue to your destination for the day, Mount Cook Village. The area is a hiker’s paradise and you can choose from a variety of hikes of varying length and difficulty.
- Hooker Valley Walk: This hike is perhaps one of the most famous in New Zealand. The easy hike takes you through the fantastic mountain scenery to the glacial lake, from where you can enjoy a beautiful view of Mount Cook.
- Müller Hut Hike: This hike takes you up to the Müllerhütte in about 4 hours. At 1,800 m you will be rewarded for the strenuous ascent with a great view. A stop at the Sealy Tarns is also recommended on the way.
- Tasman Valley Hike: This hike takes you past several small lakes to Lake Tasman. Here you can enjoy the view over the clear blue water, icebergs and the Tasman Glacier.
(all activities are optional)
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 17 Mount Cook – Queenstown
Kamana Lakehouse • Queenstown
Day Notes
Today is another highlight of your trip! With the helicopter you will be able to marvel at Mount Cook and Fox Glacier up close before you continue by car towards Queenstown.
You drive over the 971 m high Lindis Pass and then reach the former gold mining town of Arrowtown, which you can also visit. The journey continues along Lake Wakatipu to Queenstown. The small resort town of Queenstown has developed into the popular tourist center of the South Island due to its beautiful mountain location on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. The elongated lake extends between steep mountain ranges.
In the evening, a culinary experience like no other awaits as you cruise across Lake Wakatipu on the iconic TSS Earnslaw and discover Queenstown’s unrivaled culinary destination. Cruise across to Walter Peak High Country Farm aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw. Arriving at the lakeside Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant, savor the delicious flavors as our chef sizzles the finest local produce on the grill. Overlooking Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown’s alpine landscape, Colonel’s Homestead on Walter Peak High Country Farm is the perfect place to spend a few hours. The colonial architecture and sprawling grounds evoke the elegance of a bygone era.
The menu has been refreshed with the chef’s introduction. He has expanded the seasonal menu with new salads, vegetables and a selection of succulent char-grilled meats. An entertaining farm demonstration is also on offer, or you can explore the beautiful lakeside gardens.
Included
The Helicopter Line – Mt Cook: Mount Cook & The Glaciers – 2x Adults
- TSS Earnslaw historic steam ship cruise
- Dinner – Walter Peak Sheep farm Gourmet BBQ
Day 18 Queenstown / Milford Sound
Kamana Lakehouse • Queenstown
Day Notes
Today you will get to know Milford Sound. You will be flown to Milford by plane, from where you can admire the breathtaking nature on a ship. Enjoy the fantastic scenery on a scenic cruise on modern, spacious ships with extra large decks and interiors that allow for perfect views. You will see vertical cliffs, huge waterfalls, glaciers and rainforest. Keep an eye out for fur seals lazily resting on rocks and dolphins riding the waves. The friendly crew provides commentary on the sights in a variety of languages as you drive.
Included
- Milford Sound: Coach – Milford Cruise – Fly
Destination Arrowtown
Idyllically located in a magnificent natural landscape, dwarfed by the towering peaks surrounding the peaceful Arrow River, this enchanting gold-rush village is a treasure trove of historical sights. With over seventy original gold-rush buildings and a fascinating partially restored Chinese village, history lovers will have plenty to hold their interest. The tree-lined avenues running through this lively little town are strewn with, quaint miners’ cottages, funky cafes, fashionable boutiques, trendy galleries and a host of tempting restaurants and bars.
Visit the Jade & Opal Factory shop to see hand carving done on-site, check out Patagonia chocolates to witness the process of chocolate being made or play a few rounds on the town’s three immaculate golf courses. More adventurous travellers can revel in the network of famed summer trails and winter ski-fields. With its tranquil natural surrounds, its quirky charm and rich cultural heritage, Arrowtown is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure junkies and culture buffs alike.
Day 19 Queenstown – Arrowtown
Millbrook Resort • Arrowtown
Day Notes
Today we continue to Arrowtown, the small town is a former gold mining town in the Otago region on the South Island of New Zealand and is also known among insiders for its golf course:
One of the most magical golf courses in the world, Millbrook’s twin 18-hole courses have been brilliantly designed and shaped by the rugged mountain landscape, making it a stunning setting to tee off with exceptional photo opportunities at every turn.
Surrounded by the towering mountains of the Wakatipu Basin, Millbrook Resort has a stunning 36 hole golf course set amidst 650 acres of scenic rolling greens and water features. Designed by golf masters Sir Bob Charles and Greg Turner, a round here is simply an unforgettable experience. This prestigious course is regularly home to the New Zealand Open, receives global awards including best Asia Pacific golf course and we pride ourselves on being able to offer all our guests perfect golfing conditions all year round guests and visitors. Our course is best described as an Alpine Links course which features a variety of natural hazards including tufts of grass, streams, shale, trees and buildings. With five different tee positions, the course offers a challenge for all skill levels.
Included
- Millbrook Golf Resort
- 18 Hole Green Fees – Remarkables
- Electric Golf Cart
- Club Rentals
Destination Otago Peninsula
Creating one wall of the eroded valley that now forms Otago Harbour, the Otago Peninsula lies half an hour’s drive east of Dunedin City on the Otago Coast. The sliver of land is home to numerous interesting heritage sites, stunning wild walking trails, and impressive, accessible wildlife. The haven of rolling hills, tranquil bays and soft sandy beaches make idyllic landscapes to explore.
A host of tours show visitors sites such as the impressive gothic revival Larnach Castle, the 1000-year-old matai trees in the Glenfalloch Woodland Garden, and the Ōtākou Marae Cultural Centre, which offers insight into Ngai Tahu life. Animals that make their home here include albatross, penguins, fur seals and sea lions. Don’t miss the opportunity to watch the port’s daily operations and learn about maritime pursuits at the Maritime Museum.
Day 20 Arrowtown – Dunedin
Camp Estate at Larnach Castle • Otago Peninsula
Day Notes
From Arrowtown you follow the Southern Scenic Route through the Catlins region today. This wild and romantic area offers a variety of hiking opportunities, including magnificent waterfalls, lakes and lighthouses along an impressive coastline. Today you’ll pass the southernmost point of the South Island and head north to Dunedin, the “Scottish Capital” of New Zealand, which has the steepest street in the world. The city is also known for its rhododendrons and beautiful gardens.
Destination Christchurch
Day 21 Dunedin – Christchurch
The George • Christchurch
Day Notes
Today you drive north along the east coast. The small settlement of Moeraki invites you to take a break away from the main route. Here the mysterious stone balls of the “Moeraki Boulders” lie on the beach and fascinate visitors again and again. Further north along the Pacific coast we reach the limestone town of Oamaru. The city is known for its Victorian architecture, rich history and little blue penguins. The port was vital to Oamaru and surrounding agriculture in the late 19th century. Many of the well-preserved majestic buildings still stand in the historic district and are home to a variety of curio shops, restaurants, etc.
Then continue to Christchurch. The South Island’s largest city is a vibrant, cosmopolitan place with exciting theatres, diverse shopping and other attractions.
Explore the city center on the historic tram. The tram also has a restaurant car where you can dine in style. Dine in style on the restored historic tram, in an air-conditioned carriage. Experience a unique blend of old and new on a sightseeing tour through the heart of the rebuilt city center.
End of Itinerary
Day 22
Day Notes
Your New Zealand trip ends today. You drive to the airport and return the rental car to the car rental company. We hope you enjoyed your trip and wish you a safe onward or home flight.
Included
Rental drop off at the Christchurch Airport
Please look at our other New Zealand self-drive tours and if you can’t find the right tour we are happy to offer you the perfect and customized New Zealand tour.
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Enjoy the Holiday of a lifetime
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