21 Day Northbound Explorer Christchurch to Auckland Self Drive

Begin your journey in Christchurch, where English charm meets Kiwi creativity. After a private airport transfer to your accommodation, unwind or explore the vibrant heart of this ever-evolving city. Ride the historic tram, stroll the Botanic Gardens, or see the Cardboard Cathedral and riverside markets.

Suggested Activity – Discover Christchurch Afternoon Tour
A guided introduction to the city’s rich history, post-quake transformation, and iconic sights like the Botanic Gardens and Transitional Cathedral.

Board the world-famous TranzAlpine Scenic Train for an unforgettable journey across the Southern Alps to Greymouth. Pick up your rental car and drive the spectacular West Coast highway to Franz Josef, home of one of New Zealand’s most accessible glaciers.

Suggested Activity – TranzAlpine Scenic Plus Upgrade
Upgrade to Scenic Plus for gourmet regional food, inclusive drinks, and priority boarding in a premium carriage.

Spend the day exploring Franz Josef, from rainforest walks to rejuvenating hot pools and thrilling glacier adventures. Whether you fly or hike, the views are next level.

Suggested Activity – Twin Glacier Scenic Helicopter Flight with The Helicopter Line
Fly over both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers before landing on the snow for incredible alpine views.

Suggested Activity – One Hour Private Tub with Waiho Hot Tubs
Soak in a private, wood-fired hot tub surrounded by native rainforest — the perfect way to unwind.

Travel from glacier country to alpine lakes as you cross the wild Haast Pass, stopping at Blue Pools or waterfalls along the way. The journey finishes in Queenstown via the dramatic Crown Range.

Suggested Activity – Gondola and 3 Luge Rides with Skyline Queenstown
Take the gondola for panoramic lake views, then race downhill on Queenstown’s fun-filled luge tracks.

Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Queenstown offers it all — from extreme thrills to lakeside fine dining and boutique shopping.

Suggested Activity – Shotover Jet Canyon Jet Boat Ride
Ride the iconic red jet boats through narrow Shotover River canyons with high-speed spins and heart-racing turns.

Suggested Activity – TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner
Cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard a vintage steamship and enjoy a gourmet BBQ dinner at a high country farm.

Drive along the edge of Lake Wakatipu and through the scenic Southland plains to reach Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park.

Suggested Activity – Te Anau Glowworm Caves with RealNZ
Cruise across Lake Te Anau and step into a limestone cave system illuminated by thousands of glowworms.

Journey the world-famous Milford Road through alpine passes and rainforest to the stunning fiord of Milford Sound.

Included Activity – Milford Sound Cruise with RealNZ (Lunch Included)
Cruise beneath waterfalls and cliffs on this tranquil boat journey through New Zealand’s most iconic fiord, including a buffet-style lunch onboard.

Travel from Fiordland across fertile Southland plains, passing through Gore and Balclutha before arriving in the cultural and historical hub of Dunedin.

Explore a city steeped in heritage with striking architecture, coastal walks and rare wildlife encounters on the Otago Peninsula.

Suggested Activity – Wildlife Peninsula Encounter & Cruise with Monarch
See albatross, sea lions, and yellow-eyed penguins on this small-group tour and harbour wildlife cruise.

Suggested Activity – Larnach Castle and Gardens Self-Guided Tour
Explore New Zealand’s only castle, perched above the Otago Peninsula, with lavish gardens and sweeping views.

Journey north along the coast past the famous Moeraki Boulders, then head inland through the Waitaki Valley to the base of Aoraki / Mt Cook.

Wake to alpine views before enjoying a final Mt Cook highlight, then begin your scenic return to Christchurch via Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo. Stop to admire the vivid turquoise lakes, learn about the region’s glacial history, and enjoy the changing landscapes as you cross the Canterbury Plains.

Suggested Activity – Glacier Explorers
Cruise amongst ancient icebergs on the Tasman Glacier Lake, viewing towering ice cliffs and floating formations from a purpose-built boat.

Head north through the Waipara wine region and rolling North Canterbury hills before descending to the dramatic Kaikōura coastline. The final stretch hugs the ocean, often revealing seals and seabirds along the shore.

Suggested Activity – Ocean’s Cabin with Whale Watch Kaikōura
Enjoy an unforgettable marine adventure with the chance to see sperm whales, dolphins, seals and seabirds in their natural environment.

Follow the coastline north past seal colonies before crossing into Marlborough’s vineyard country. Continue through Picton and along the spectacular Queen Charlotte Drive, then travel via Nelson and Motueka to the gateway of Abel Tasman National Park.

Spend the day enjoying one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal environments, known for golden beaches, sheltered bays and calm turquoise waters. Choose between cruising, kayaking or walking sections of the famous coastal track.

Suggested Activity – Beaches, Bays and Seals Guided Sea Kayaking Trip with Wilsons (Lunch Included)
Combine kayaking, coastal walks and wildlife spotting with a scenic cruise and picnic lunch in Abel Tasman’s sheltered bays.

Suggested Activity – Abel Tasman National Park Cruise and Walk Open Day Pass
Create your own adventure with flexible cruise and short walk options to beaches, seal colonies and forest tracks.

Travel through Nelson and Marlborough Sounds, stopping at Pelorus Bridge and scenic lookouts along Queen Charlotte Drive. Cross Cook Strait on a spectacular ferry journey before arriving in New Zealand’s capital, where you’ll collect your North Island rental car.

Included Transport – Interislander Ferry Picton to Wellington
One of the world’s most scenic ferry crossings, featuring sheltered sounds, open ocean views and frequent wildlife sightings.

Discover Wellington’s creative energy, compact waterfront and cultural landmarks. Visit museums, ride the cable car, explore quirky laneways or venture to nearby beaches and wine regions.

Suggested Activity – Zealandia by Night Wildlife Sanctuary Tour
Experience New Zealand’s rare native wildlife on a guided night walk through a fully fenced urban eco-sanctuary.

Suggested Activity – Wētā Workshop Experience
Go behind the scenes of world-famous film productions and explore the creativity behind iconic movie props and effects.

Journey north through the Kapiti Coast and central plateau, passing volcanic landscapes and mountain scenery. Stop at Lake Taupō, Huka Falls or geothermal reserves before arriving in Rotorua, the heart of Māori culture and geothermal activity.

Suggested Activity – Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Explore colourful geothermal features including boiling mud pools, steaming vents and the famous Lady Knox Geyser.

Rotorua offers a mix of geothermal wonders, cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. Spend the day soaking in hot springs, learning Māori traditions or enjoying forest-based thrills.

Suggested Activity – National Kiwi Hatchery Experience
Learn about New Zealand’s national bird and conservation efforts while viewing kiwi chicks in a protected environment.

Suggested Activity – Original Ziplining Experience with Rotorua Canopy Tours
Soar through ancient native forest on a thrilling zipline adventure guided by passionate conservation experts.

Suggested Activity – Te Pā Tū Evening Māori Cultural Experience (Dinner Included)
Immerse yourself in Māori storytelling, performance and seasonal cuisine during an unforgettable evening feast.

Drive through the fertile Waikato region, passing riverside towns and rolling farmland before reaching Auckland. Arrive with time to relax or enjoy a casual evening by the harbour.

Suggested Activity – Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Step into the magical world of Middle-earth with a guided walking tour through the iconic Hobbiton set, complete with hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn.

Spend the day discovering New Zealand’s largest city, where urban life meets coastal beauty. Choose from island escapes, sailing experiences, volcanic viewpoints or world-class dining.

Suggested Activity – Ferry to Rangitoto Island Return
Cruise across the harbour to Auckland’s youngest volcano and walk to the summit for sweeping city and gulf views.

Suggested Activity – Harbour Sailing Cruise with Explore
Set sail on Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour aboard a small yacht, taking in city highlights like the Harbour Bridge. Get hands-on with the sailing or simply relax and enjoy the stunning views from the water.

Auckland Wine Country Half Day Tour with Bush and Beach – Lunch Included
Head to Kumeu Wine Country for a relaxed day of wine tasting, coastal views, and a vineyard lunch. Visit Muriwai Beach’s dramatic cliffs and gannet colony before finishing with a tasting at one of NZ’s oldest wineries.

Included Activity – Auckland Sky Tower Admission
Take in panoramic views from the tallest structure in New Zealand, with optional adrenaline experiences for the brave.

Enjoy some last minute sightseeing with unlimited opportunities to enjoy the last of your New Zealand trip!

No matter what your style, this vibrant city will have you finishing your holiday on a wonderful high before returning your rental vehicle and heading home to share your travel stories of New Zealand.

Mā te wā — see you again soon.