Overview

Discover the South Island of New Zealand and the very best that this part of the country has to offer, all from the comfort of your very own motorhome. Explore Franz Josef and Fox Glacier, take a nature walk on Mou Waho Island on Lake Wanaka, and a thrilling shotover Jet ride in Queenstown, before taking in the wonders of Milford Sound on a cruise. Enjoy an exhilarating ride on the Shotover Jet, discover the natural beauty of Milford Sound as you enjoy a nature cruise around the area, watch the stars at the Deep Sky Project near Lake Tekapo, and visit the truly unique International Antarctic Centre.

Christchurch - Hanmer Spring - Greymouth - Franz Josef or Fox Glacier - Wanaka - Queenstown - Te Anau - Milford Sound - Dunedin - Lake Tekapo - Christchurch

Map of 15 Day Southern Motorhome Self Drive
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Arrive Christchurch
Christchurch - Hanmer Springs
Hanmer Springs - Greymouth
Greymouth - Franz Josef or Fox Glacier
Fox Glacier or Franz Josef - Wanaka
Wanaka
Wanaka - Queenstown
Queenstown
Free Day Queenstown
Queenstown - Te Anau
Milford Sound
Te Anau - Dunedin
Dunedin - Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo - Christchurch
Depart Christchurch

Day 1

Arrive Christchurch

Day 2

Christchurch - Hanmer Springs

Travel Time: 1 hr 40 mins

Distance: 133 km

Day 3

Hanmer Springs - Greymouth

Travel Time: 3 hrs

Distance: 234 kms

Day 4

Greymouth - Franz Josef or Fox Glacier

Travel Time: 2 hrs 35 mins

Distance: 195 kms

Day 5

Fox Glacier or Franz Josef - Wanaka

Travel Time: 3 hrs 25 mins

Distance: 262 kms

Day 6

Wanaka

Day 7

Wanaka - Queenstown

Travel Time: 1 hrs 5 mins

Distance: 69 kms

Day 8

Queenstown

Day 9

Free Day Queenstown

Day 10

Queenstown - Te Anau

Travel Time: 2 hrs 5 mins

Distance: 171 kms

Day 11

Milford Sound

Travel Time: 3 hrs 30 mins

Distance: 234 km

Day 12

Te Anau - Dunedin

Travel Time: 4 hrs

Distance: 325 kms

Day 13

Dunedin - Lake Tekapo

Travel Time: 3 hrs 40 mins

Distance: 305 kms

Day 14

Lake Tekapo - Christchurch

Travel Time: 3 hrs 5 mins

Distance: 256 kms

Day 15

Depart Christchurch

Upon arriving in Christchurch, you will make your way to the vehicle depot to collect your motorhome rental.

This morning head north from Christchurch through the rolling farmland of North Canterbury to the alpine resort of Hamner Springs. Relax at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa, a water wonderland with hydro slides, aquatic thrill rides and hot pools of different temperatures. Perhaps treat yourself or partner with a luxury spa package?

Besides the thermal pools, Hanmer Springs has lots to offer, with everything from walking or biking tracks, a mini golf putting course, and animal farm. For those wanting some adventure, there is jet boating, bungy jumping, canoeing, river rafting and 4WD quad biking available.

Stay 1 night Hanmer Springs

Travel over the picturesque Lewis Pass, the northern most of the three Southern Alps passes. On the way stop at Maruia Hot Springs, an award winning wellness centre hidden away in the Southern Alps. If you have enough time to explore, make your way north to Punakaiki and visit the fabulous Pancake Rocks and blowholes, before the short drive south to Greymouth on the West Coast.

This afternoon visit Shantytown Heritage Park, just 10 minutes south of Greymouth and discover the faithfully restored gold mining town from the 1860's. Take a ride in a steam train, and see if you can find a gold nugget, with a spot of gold panning!

Stay 1 night Greymouth

Spend some time in Hokitika on your way down the coast, a town noted for its pounamu (New Zealand jade) and wild west gold mining history. Maybe you would like to see the world from a bird’s viewpoint, and walk high above the ground through the ancient rimu and kamahi tree canopy on the West Coast Treetop Walkway.

This afternoon at Fox Glacier or Franz Josef, take a 20 minute scenic flight takes you from sea level into the Southern Alps for a scenic flight over the otherwise inaccessible iceflows of either Fox Glacier or Franz Josef Glacier, for a snow landing right on the glacier, a truly unforgettable experience.

Stay 1 night Franz Josef or Fox Glacier

Travel down the rugged West Coat, before heading over Haast Pass through the southern Alps. There are scores of places to stop at the roadside in the pass, for short walks to stunning waterfalls and blue pools or simply to admire the verdant landscape.

In Wanaka pay a visit to weird and wonderful Puzzling World (included), an entertaining activity for young and old alike with a mix of bizarre buildings, the world-famous Great Maze, and rooms of illusion.

Stay 2 nights Wanaka

This morning combine a lake cruise, nature walk, wildlife encounter and spectacular lake and alpine views with an eco guide, and you have the Mou Waho Island Cruise and Walk on Lake Wanaka. Your guide will introduce you to the rare and varied flora and fauna, including the endangered flightless Buff Weka that has been extinct on the rest of mainland New Zealand since 1920.

This afternoon you can enjoy some of the many other activities of this stunning lakeside township, maybe a thrilling jet boat ride, relaxing walk along the lakefront. Visit Puzzling world or one of the many attractions at Wanaka Airport. The choice is yours.

The shortest route to Wanaka is over the Crown Range Road to Arrowtown. It's a challenging drive, but the views are amazing and you'll probably encounter friendly keas (mountain parrots). More conservative drivers can take the route that runs beside the Clutha River, Lake Dunstan and the Shotover River. The vineyards of the Gibbston area and bungy jumpers at the Kawarau River Bridge are interesting distractions along the way. This afternoon is at leisure to explore Queenstown.

Stay 3 nights Queenstown

Kick start your day with the famously thrilling jet boating trip on the Shotover River. The rest of the afternoon is completely up to you and you can explore this fun loving town at your own pace. 

You will have an additional day to explore Queenstown and enjoy even more of the local activities.

Tonight, Go back in time on this return trip to Walter Peak High Country Farm aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship. On disembarking, you'll be escorted through the beautiful lakeside gardens to the charming Colonel's Homestead. Here you'll enjoy a Gourmet BBQ dinner which your chef will prepare in front of you. The seasonal menu includes an expansive array of local produce, including succulent meats cooked on the outdoor rotisserie and a selection of delicious vegetables and salads.

Drive along the southern shores of the beautiful Lake Wakatipu and travel across the rural farmlands that lead to Te Anau. While you're there, why not make the most of it by enjoying a scenic cruise across the lake and discover the underground wonders of the glowworm caves?

Travel along the Milford Road and venture through the Homer Tunnel before hopping on board for a nature cruise around Milford Sound. Prepare to be amazed by the world famous natural wonder as you cruise past waterfalls and rock walls. Return to Te Anau where you will spend the evening.

Make your way across the river plains that pass through Gore on the way to Dunedin – the 'Edinburgh of the South'. Visit historic Olveston House or Larnach Castle with its gardens rated by the New Zealand Gardens Trust as a Garden of International Significance.  An absolute must for nature lovers is a visit to some of the wildlife attractions of Otago Peninsula including the Yellow-Eyed Penguin Reserve, Monarch Wildlife Cruise and Albatross Sanctuary.

Stay 1 night Dunedin

Travel north and don't forget to stop to see the Moeraki Boulders as you head for Lake Tekapo. Head inland to Lake Tekapo, known as the world's largest International Dark Sky Reserve. Enjoy an evening of stargazing at Mt John on a Dark Sky Project Summit Experience.

Stay 1 night Lake Tekapo

As you drive on to Christchurch, the 'Garden City', you will travel across the scenic Canterbury Plains. Enjoy the farmland views along the way and, once you arrive in the city, you can enjoy and interactive experience and view the penguins at the International Antarctic Centre.

Make your way to the vehicle depot to return your motorhome before heading back home.

Day 1, Arrive Christchurch

Arrive Christchurch

Upon arriving in Christchurch, you will make your way to the vehicle depot to collect your motorhome rental.

Day 2, Christchurch - Hanmer Springs

Christchurch - Hanmer Springs

Travel Time: 1 hr 40 mins

Distance: 133 km

This morning head north from Christchurch through the rolling farmland of North Canterbury to the alpine resort of Hamner Springs. Relax at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa, a water wonderland with hydro slides, aquatic thrill rides and hot pools of different temperatures. Perhaps treat yourself or partner with a luxury spa package?

Besides the thermal pools, Hanmer Springs has lots to offer, with everything from walking or biking tracks, a mini golf putting course, and animal farm. For those wanting some adventure, there is jet boating, bungy jumping, canoeing, river rafting and 4WD quad biking available.

Stay 1 night Hanmer Springs

Day 3, Hanmer Springs - Greymouth

Hanmer Springs - Greymouth

Travel Time: 3 hrs

Distance: 234 kms

Travel over the picturesque Lewis Pass, the northern most of the three Southern Alps passes. On the way stop at Maruia Hot Springs, an award winning wellness centre hidden away in the Southern Alps. If you have enough time to explore, make your way north to Punakaiki and visit the fabulous Pancake Rocks and blowholes, before the short drive south to Greymouth on the West Coast.

This afternoon visit Shantytown Heritage Park, just 10 minutes south of Greymouth and discover the faithfully restored gold mining town from the 1860's. Take a ride in a steam train, and see if you can find a gold nugget, with a spot of gold panning!

Stay 1 night Greymouth

Day 4, Greymouth - Franz Josef or Fox Glacier

Greymouth - Franz Josef or Fox Glacier

Travel Time: 2 hrs 35 mins

Distance: 195 kms

Spend some time in Hokitika on your way down the coast, a town noted for its pounamu (New Zealand jade) and wild west gold mining history. Maybe you would like to see the world from a bird’s viewpoint, and walk high above the ground through the ancient rimu and kamahi tree canopy on the West Coast Treetop Walkway.

This afternoon at Fox Glacier or Franz Josef, take a 20 minute scenic flight takes you from sea level into the Southern Alps for a scenic flight over the otherwise inaccessible iceflows of either Fox Glacier or Franz Josef Glacier, for a snow landing right on the glacier, a truly unforgettable experience.

Stay 1 night Franz Josef or Fox Glacier

Day 5, Fox Glacier or Franz Josef - Wanaka

Fox Glacier or Franz Josef - Wanaka

Travel Time: 3 hrs 25 mins

Distance: 262 kms

Travel down the rugged West Coat, before heading over Haast Pass through the southern Alps. There are scores of places to stop at the roadside in the pass, for short walks to stunning waterfalls and blue pools or simply to admire the verdant landscape.

In Wanaka pay a visit to weird and wonderful Puzzling World (included), an entertaining activity for young and old alike with a mix of bizarre buildings, the world-famous Great Maze, and rooms of illusion.

Stay 2 nights Wanaka

Day 6, Wanaka

Wanaka

This morning combine a lake cruise, nature walk, wildlife encounter and spectacular lake and alpine views with an eco guide, and you have the Mou Waho Island Cruise and Walk on Lake Wanaka. Your guide will introduce you to the rare and varied flora and fauna, including the endangered flightless Buff Weka that has been extinct on the rest of mainland New Zealand since 1920.

This afternoon you can enjoy some of the many other activities of this stunning lakeside township, maybe a thrilling jet boat ride, relaxing walk along the lakefront. Visit Puzzling world or one of the many attractions at Wanaka Airport. The choice is yours.

Day 7, Wanaka - Queenstown

Wanaka - Queenstown

Travel Time: 1 hrs 5 mins

Distance: 69 kms

The shortest route to Wanaka is over the Crown Range Road to Arrowtown. It's a challenging drive, but the views are amazing and you'll probably encounter friendly keas (mountain parrots). More conservative drivers can take the route that runs beside the Clutha River, Lake Dunstan and the Shotover River. The vineyards of the Gibbston area and bungy jumpers at the Kawarau River Bridge are interesting distractions along the way. This afternoon is at leisure to explore Queenstown.

Stay 3 nights Queenstown

Day 8, Queenstown

Queenstown

Kick start your day with the famously thrilling jet boating trip on the Shotover River. The rest of the afternoon is completely up to you and you can explore this fun loving town at your own pace. 

Day 9, Free Day Queenstown

Free Day Queenstown

You will have an additional day to explore Queenstown and enjoy even more of the local activities.

Tonight, Go back in time on this return trip to Walter Peak High Country Farm aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship. On disembarking, you'll be escorted through the beautiful lakeside gardens to the charming Colonel's Homestead. Here you'll enjoy a Gourmet BBQ dinner which your chef will prepare in front of you. The seasonal menu includes an expansive array of local produce, including succulent meats cooked on the outdoor rotisserie and a selection of delicious vegetables and salads.

Day 10, Queenstown - Te Anau

Queenstown - Te Anau

Travel Time: 2 hrs 5 mins

Distance: 171 kms

Drive along the southern shores of the beautiful Lake Wakatipu and travel across the rural farmlands that lead to Te Anau. While you're there, why not make the most of it by enjoying a scenic cruise across the lake and discover the underground wonders of the glowworm caves?

Day 11, Milford Sound

Milford Sound

Travel Time: 3 hrs 30 mins

Distance: 234 km

Travel along the Milford Road and venture through the Homer Tunnel before hopping on board for a nature cruise around Milford Sound. Prepare to be amazed by the world famous natural wonder as you cruise past waterfalls and rock walls. Return to Te Anau where you will spend the evening.

Day 12, Te Anau - Dunedin

Te Anau - Dunedin

Travel Time: 4 hrs

Distance: 325 kms

Make your way across the river plains that pass through Gore on the way to Dunedin – the 'Edinburgh of the South'. Visit historic Olveston House or Larnach Castle with its gardens rated by the New Zealand Gardens Trust as a Garden of International Significance.  An absolute must for nature lovers is a visit to some of the wildlife attractions of Otago Peninsula including the Yellow-Eyed Penguin Reserve, Monarch Wildlife Cruise and Albatross Sanctuary.

Stay 1 night Dunedin

Day 13, Dunedin - Lake Tekapo

Dunedin - Lake Tekapo

Travel Time: 3 hrs 40 mins

Distance: 305 kms

Travel north and don't forget to stop to see the Moeraki Boulders as you head for Lake Tekapo. Head inland to Lake Tekapo, known as the world's largest International Dark Sky Reserve. Enjoy an evening of stargazing at Mt John on a Dark Sky Project Summit Experience.

Stay 1 night Lake Tekapo

Day 14, Lake Tekapo - Christchurch

Lake Tekapo - Christchurch

Travel Time: 3 hrs 5 mins

Distance: 256 kms

As you drive on to Christchurch, the 'Garden City', you will travel across the scenic Canterbury Plains. Enjoy the farmland views along the way and, once you arrive in the city, you can enjoy and interactive experience and view the penguins at the International Antarctic Centre.

Day 15, Depart Christchurch

Depart Christchurch

Make your way to the vehicle depot to return your motorhome before heading back home.

Additional Information

Pricing

Cost per person

May to September 2023

Standard Britz: From NZ$3,767* per person

Superior Maui: From NZ$4,375* per person

* PLEASE NOTE *

Prices quoted are based on a 2 berth Motorhome, with 2 people sharing. Please contact us for rates for 2 or more people sharing a 4 or 6 Berth Motorhome.

Prices are estimates only, and are subject to availability and exchange rates when booking, seasonal or holiday price surcharges (such as Christmas/New Year and Easter); as well as special events that may be on. Please forward a request and we will be happy to forward a quote.

Motorhome Rental

  • Road User Recovery Fee - Charged on ALL motorhomes at time of Drop off at an average of $6.62 per 100km they travel. (Diesel Tax basically)

Inclusive Rates – This has a NIL Excess

Inclusions are:

  • Liability Reduction Option (liability reduced to Nil)
  • Single vehicle rollover cover
  • WiFi, including 1GB of data
  • Extra Driver Fees
  • Linen exchange
  • Picnic table
  • Picnic chairs (chairs per person travelling)
  • Baby / Booster seat - on request (cannot be fitted in some vehicle categories)
  • Snow chains if required
  • Portable fan heater if required

Payment

  • Deposit: 10% at time of booking
  • Full Payment: 90 Days before travel
  • Airfares (if applicable): Paid in full no more than 6 days after booking

Cancellation Charges

  • Cancellation Fees up to 100% can apply after booking. Extra deposits or full payment may be requested to cover these charges prior to booking.
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Includes

Includes:

15 days 2 berth motorhome hire with shower/toilet

Hanmer Springs Hot Pools

Shantytown Heritage Park entry, steam train ride & gold panning

Franz Josef or Fox Glacier Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing

Mou Waho Island Cruise & Walk

>Skyline Gondola, Buffet Dinner & Luge Ride

Shotover Jet Boat Ride

Milford Sound Cruise

Dark Sky Project Summit Experience

Entry to the International Antarctic Centre

Options

Motorhome hire

Choose from 2 standards of motorhome hire:

  • Standard option: Britz Venturer, 2 Berth Auto
  • Superior option: Maui Ultima, 2 Berth Auto

Both vehicles are 2 berth automatic motorhomes, with an onboard shower & toilet, full kitchen, outdoor slide-out BBQ and a double bed which can be split into 2 single beds

Itineraries

All itineraries can be amended or combined with other itineraries. Please advise amendments when requesting a quote.

Travel Insurance

If you are going overseas, then travel insurance is a necessity.

Airfares

International flights can be included from Australia for all Australian residents.

Highlights

Hanmer Springs Hot Springs & Spa

Relax at Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa, a water wonderland with hydro slides, aquatic thrill rides and hot pools of different temperatures. Perhaps treat yourself or partner with a luxury spa package?

Shantytown Heritage Park

Just 10 minutes south of Greymouth visit Shantytown Heritage Park, and discover the faithfully restored gold mining town from the 1860's. Take a ride in a steam train, and see if you can find a gold nugget, with a spot of gold panning!

Fox or Franz Josef Glacier Helicopter Flight with Snow Landing

This 20 minute scenic flight takes you from sea level into the Southern Alps for a scenic flight over the otherwise inaccessible iceflows of either Fox Glacier or Franz Josef Glacier, for a snow landing right on the glacier.

Mou Waho Island Cruise & Walk

Combine a lake cruise, nature walk, wildlife encounter and spectacular lake and alpine views with an eco guide, and you have the Mou Waho Island Cruise and Walk on Lake Wanaka. Your guide will introduce you to the rare and varied flora and fauna, including the endangered flightless Buff Weka that has been extinct on the rest of mainland New Zealand since 1920.

TSS Earnslaw cruise to Walter Peak Peak Evening Dining 

Go back in time on this return trip to Walter Peak High Country Farm aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship. On disembarking, you'll be escorted through the beautiful lakeside gardens to the charming Colonel's Homestead. Here you'll enjoy a Gourmet BBQ dinner which your chef will prepare in front of you. The seasonal menu includes an expansive array of local produce, including succulent meats cooked on the outdoor rotisserie and a selection of delicious vegetables and salads. Finish your meal with an irresistible dessert, New Zealand cheeses and freshly brewed tea and coffee. After dinner, an entertaining and informative demonstration gives you a glimpse of life in the high country. On your cruise home, enjoy the camaraderie of a singalong with the ship's pianist or breathe in the fresh night air as you watch the lights of Queenstown draw nearer.

Shotover Jet Boat Ride

New Zealand's most iconic & popular activity. Take a unique, breathtaking & adrenalin filled ride through dramatic & narrow canyons, and hold on tight as for exhilarating 360 degree spins.

Milford Sound Cruise

Get up close & personal with Milford Sound on this leisurely nature cruise. Experience the spray of a waterfall as you cruise close to sheer rock faces or watch out for dolphins, seals and in season, the rare Fiordland blue crested penguins.

Dark Sky Project Summit Experience

Mt John Observatory at Lake Tekapo is New Zealand's premier site for stargazing. Located at 1,092 metres above sea level, with unsurpassed 360° views, makes this the largest accredited Dark Sky Project in the world. On the 1 hour 45 minute evening Summit Experience your expert astronomy guides will take you through an exploration of the southern skies. Starting using your naked eye, you will be guided by laser beams to point out individual stars and galaxies. You will then explore deeper using up to a 16″ telescope to explore deeper into the Milky Way, whilst learning about the research projects that are being undertaken here.

Entry into the International Antarctic Centre

An award-winning attraction, packed with interactive & fun exhibits for everyone! Play in 'Antarctica' - the Snow & Ice experience, survive an Antarctic Storm, ride the Hagglund & see Little Blue Penguins.

Book now, pay later No credit card required

15 Day Southern Motorhome Self Drive

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