22 Day Best of Both Islands Self Drive

Welcome to Auckland, New Zealand's largest city and the gateway to your unforgettable journey through both the North and South Islands. Collect your rental car and spend the rest of the day exploring the vibrant waterfront, bustling Viaduct Harbour and diverse dining scene before your adventure begins.

Optional Activity: Sky Tower Including Sky Deck
Take in breathtaking 360-degree views from Auckland's iconic Sky Tower, with panoramic vistas stretching across the city skyline, sparkling harbours and volcanic landscapes. Your admission includes access to the Sky Deck, the tower's highest public viewing platform, offering an unforgettable perspective from 220 metres above the ground.

Travel north through rolling farmland and picturesque coastal landscapes to the subtropical Bay of Islands, a region renowned for its golden beaches, secluded bays and rich maritime history. Arrive in Paihia with time to relax by the waterfront or enjoy a leisurely evening overlooking the bay.

Optional Activity: Waitangi Treaty Grounds Experience Pass & Hāngī and Concert
Discover New Zealand's most significant historic site with access to interactive museums, guided tours, Māori cultural performances and the impressive ceremonial waka (war canoe). In the evening, enjoy a traditional hāngī feast followed by a captivating cultural performance featuring powerful haka, waiata (songs) and storytelling that celebrates the rich heritage of Aotearoa.

Spend the day exploring one of New Zealand's most spectacular coastal regions, home to 144 idyllic islands, abundant marine life and breathtaking ocean scenery.

Included: Hole in the Rock Cruise
Cruise through the stunning Bay of Islands towards the famous Hole in the Rock at Cape Brett, passing secluded islands, dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches along the way. Keep watch for dolphins, seals and seabirds while learning about the region's fascinating history and unique marine environment.

Enjoy a scenic drive back to Auckland, stopping along the way to discover charming country towns, local markets or picturesque coastal lookouts. Spend your final evening in the City of Sails exploring its lively dining precincts and vibrant waterfront.

Optional Activity: Wētā Workshop Unleashed
Step into a world of movie magic as you explore immersive fantasy, sci-fi and horror film sets brought to life with incredible practical effects, props and animatronics. Discover the creativity and craftsmanship behind world-class filmmaking in this interactive behind-the-scenes experience.

Journey south through the lush Waikato countryside, visiting two of New Zealand's most iconic attractions before arriving in the geothermal city of Rotorua. From movie magic to underground wonders, today is packed with unforgettable experiences.

Included: Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Venture beneath the surface into a magical limestone cave system illuminated by thousands of tiny glowworms. Drift silently by boat through the Glowworm Grotto while your guide shares the fascinating history and geology of this natural wonder.

Included: Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
Step into the enchanting world of Middle-earth as you explore the beautifully preserved Hobbiton Movie Set, complete with charming Hobbit Holes, lush gardens and the iconic Green Dragon Inn. Discover behind-the-scenes stories from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies as you wander through this world-famous film location.

Spend the day discovering Rotorua's geothermal landscapes, bubbling mud pools and fascinating Māori culture. This evening, immerse yourself in one of New Zealand's most memorable cultural experiences.

Included: Hells Gate Geothermal Walk
Explore New Zealand's most active geothermal reserve, where steaming cliffs, bubbling mud pools and sulphur springs reveal the incredible power of nature. Learn about the cultural significance of this remarkable landscape while wandering through its dramatic geothermal features.

Included: Te Pā Tū Evening Cultural Experience
Experience an unforgettable evening of Māori culture featuring a traditional pōwhiri, captivating storytelling, powerful haka and beautiful waiata. Complete the experience with a seasonal feast inspired by indigenous ingredients and the warm hospitality of Māori tradition.

Travel through the volcanic landscapes of the central North Island before arriving in Napier, famous for its elegant Art Deco architecture, award-winning wineries and sunny coastal setting. Enjoy the afternoon exploring the city's boutique shops, galleries and vibrant waterfront.

Optional Experience: Vintage Deco Car Tour – The Highlights
Travel through Napier's elegant Art Deco streets in a beautifully restored vintage car while admiring the city's iconic 1930s architecture and historic landmarks. Along the way, your knowledgeable local guide will share fascinating stories of Napier's remarkable post-earthquake rebuild and rich architectural heritage.

Follow the scenic coastline south to New Zealand's compact and creative capital city. Spend the afternoon discovering Wellington's lively waterfront, colourful Cuba Street and renowned café culture.

Optional Activity: Zealandia by Night
Experience New Zealand's extraordinary native wildlife after dark on a guided twilight tour through the world-renowned Zealandia ecosanctuary. Keep watch for elusive kiwi, tuatara, glowworms and other nocturnal species while learning about the sanctuary's pioneering conservation success.

Enjoy a full day at leisure to experience Wellington's many attractions, from fascinating museums and galleries to scenic viewpoints and hidden laneways. The capital's vibrant arts, food and coffee culture ensures there's something to suit every traveller.

Optional Activity: Full Day Wellington Tour
Discover Wellington's natural beauty and historic landmarks as you journey along the scenic coastline, visit the native rainforest of Otari-Wilton's Bush and ride the iconic Wellington Cable Car for spectacular harbour views. Continue past the Botanic Gardens, Parliament Buildings, Premier House and the charming heritage homes of Tinakori Road while learning about the capital's rich history and culture.

Board the iconic Interislander Ferry for one of the world's most scenic ferry crossings, sailing across Cook Strait and through the stunning Marlborough Sounds. Upon arrival, continue to the renowned Marlborough wine region for an overnight stay surrounded by vineyards.

Optional Activity: The Magic Mail Boat Run Cruise
Cruise through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds aboard the iconic Mail Boat as it delivers mail and supplies to remote bays accessible only by water. Along the way, enjoy spectacular coastal scenery, fascinating local stories and the chance to spot dolphins, seals and native birdlife.

Journey south through rolling vineyards, rugged coastlines and the picturesque Canterbury countryside before arriving in Christchurch. Spend the afternoon exploring the city's beautiful gardens, innovative architecture and lively riverside precincts.

Optional Activity: Christchurch Tram & Gondola Ride
Discover Christchurch's rich heritage aboard the iconic Christchurch Tram before soaring above the city on the Christchurch Gondola for breathtaking panoramic views of the Canterbury Plains, Lyttelton Harbour and the Southern Alps. This relaxing experience combines the city's historic charm with some of the region's most spectacular scenery.

Travel across the Southern Alps and through spectacular mountain scenery before descending into the lush rainforest of the West Coast. Arrive in Franz Josef, where glaciers, native forest and dramatic landscapes combine to create an unforgettable destination.

Optional Activity: West Coast Wildlife Centre VIP Backstage Pass
Step behind the scenes on a guided tour of New Zealand's largest kiwi incubation and hatching facility in the South Island, where you'll learn about the conservation of the rare rowi and Haast tokoeka kiwis. Enjoy exclusive access to the incubation area and a private tuatara encounter with expert wildlife rangers, with general admission to the Wildlife Centre also included.

Spend the day discovering the unique beauty of New Zealand's glacier country, where towering peaks meet ancient rainforest.

Included: Franz Josef Cruise & Rainforest Walk
Cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Mapourika while admiring spectacular views of the Southern Alps and Franz Josef Glacier reflected on the lake's mirror-like surface. Continue with a guided rainforest walk to discover native flora, birdlife and the fascinating natural history of this remarkable region.

Journey through the spectacular Haast Pass, where waterfalls, native rainforest and alpine scenery line one of New Zealand's most scenic drives. Arrive in Queenstown with time to explore the bustling lakeside town and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.

Optional Activity: Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner aboard TSS Earnslaw
Cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the iconic vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm, where a gourmet BBQ dinner showcases premium New Zealand meats, fresh seasonal produce and delicious desserts. After dinner, enjoy a guided farm tour and entertaining sheepdog demonstration before returning to Queenstown on a scenic evening cruise.

Today is dedicated to adventure, spectacular scenery and unforgettable views in New Zealand's adventure capital.

Included: Shotover Jet
Hold on tight as your expert driver powers through the narrow canyons of the Shotover River, performing thrilling high-speed spins just metres from the rocky cliffs. This legendary jet boat ride delivers an adrenaline-filled experience unlike any other.

Included: Skyline Gondola
Ride the Skyline Gondola to the summit of Bob's Peak for breathtaking panoramic views across Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables. Take time to soak up the spectacular scenery from one of the region's most iconic viewpoints.

Travel through rolling farmland and picturesque countryside to Te Anau, the peaceful gateway to Fiordland National Park. Spend the afternoon enjoying the lakeside walking tracks or relaxing in this charming alpine town.

Optional Activity: Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour
Cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Te Anau before exploring a fascinating network of limestone caves filled with sculpted rock formations and rushing underground streams. Deep within the caves, witness thousands of tiny glowworms illuminating the darkness, creating a magical underground spectacle.

Travel along one of New Zealand's most scenic roads into the heart of Fiordland National Park, where towering mountains, ancient rainforest and cascading waterfalls surround you.

Included: Milford Sound Cruise with Lunch
Cruise through the spectacular fiord beneath towering cliffs and thundering waterfalls while enjoying a delicious lunch on board. Keep watch for playful dolphins, New Zealand fur seals and native birdlife as you explore this UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscape.

Journey east through Southland's rolling countryside to the historic city of Dunedin, celebrated for its Scottish heritage, impressive architecture and vibrant arts scene. Enjoy time to explore the city's unique character and welcoming cafés.

Optional Activity: Wildlife & Penguin Tour
Explore a private conservation reserve on the Otago Peninsula, where you'll have the opportunity to see rare hoiho (yellow-eyed penguins), kororā (little penguins), seals, sea lions and native birdlife in their natural habitat. Walk through purpose-built viewing hides with your expert guide while learning about the region's unique wildlife and ongoing conservation efforts.

Spend the day discovering the beautiful Otago Peninsula, where history, heritage and spectacular scenery come together.

Included: Larnach Castle & Gardens
Explore New Zealand's only castle and uncover the fascinating story of the Larnach family as you wander through its beautifully restored rooms, grand interiors and elegant architecture. Your visit also includes the award-winning gardens, offering colourful displays and sweeping views across the Otago Peninsula.

Travel north through the spectacular Mackenzie Country to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand's highest mountain. Towering peaks, glacial lakes and unforgettable alpine scenery await upon arrival.

Optional Activity: Glacier Explorers
Embark on a scenic boat journey across the terminal lake of the Tasman Glacier, where floating icebergs and towering alpine peaks create an unforgettable landscape. Along the way, learn about the glacier's fascinating history, geology and the ever-changing glacial environment from your knowledgeable guide.

Leave the majestic Southern Alps behind as you follow the brilliant turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki and Lake Tekapo back towards Christchurch. Enjoy your final evening exploring the city's vibrant dining scene and beautiful riverside precincts.

Optional Activity: Kai Safari – 3-Hour Dinner Walking Tour
Experience the flavours of Christchurch on a guided evening walking tour, where premium seasonal dishes are paired with Māori storytelling, local history and the city's vibrant culture. Led by passionate Māori guides, you'll explore hidden laneways and historic precincts while discovering the traditions, people and stories that make Christchurch unique.

After checking out of your hotel, enjoy some free time to explore Christchurch or pick up a few last-minute souvenirs before your onward journey. When it's time to leave, return your rental car and make your way to Christchurch Airport with unforgettable memories of New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities and iconic experiences.