7 Day Christchurch to Auckland Essential Highlights Self Drive

Arrive in Christchurch where a private driver transfers you to your hotel and you can relax or begin exploring this ever‑evolving “Garden City.” Christchurch blends leafy parks, wide avenues, and creative reinvention — ride the historic tram, stroll the Botanic Gardens, or visit the unique Transitional Cathedral, rebuilt after the earthquakes.

Suggested Activity – Discover Christchurch Afternoon Tour
A guided half‑day city tour showcasing Christchurch’s landmarks, gardens and stories of transformation.

Collect your rental car and head north through rolling vineyards and countryside toward the dramatic coastal town of Kaikōura, where mountains meet the Pacific Ocean. Keep an eye out for seabirds and seals lining the shoreline as you approach this marine wildlife haven.

Suggested Activity – Ocean’s Cabin with Whale Watch Kaikōura
A thrilling marine adventure offering up‑close encounters with sperm whales, dolphins, seals and seabirds.

Drive the scenic Pacific Coast to Picton and board the Interislander ferry for a stunning crossing of the Marlborough Sounds and Cook Strait to Wellington. The ferry’s Premium Plus Lounge provides comfort and refreshments as you enjoy expansive sea and island views.

Included: Interislander Ferry Premium Plus Experience
Relax in comfort with complimentary beverages, light meals and lounge seating while crossing one of the world’s most scenic ferry routes.

Suggested Activity: Zealandia By Night Wildlife Sanctuary Tour

Join a magical guided night walk through a fully fenced forest sanctuary and encounter rare native wildlife in their natural habitat.

Depart Wellington and travel north through rolling countryside to the volcanic heart of the North Island. Visit Lake Taupō and the dramatic Huka Falls, where powerful water rushes through canyons, and enjoy the lively lakeside town’s many cafés and outdoor activities.

Includes: Huka Jet Boat Ride
An exhilarating jet boat adventure skimming close to cliffs and through rapids right up to the base of Huka Falls.

Travel through geothermal landscapes to Rotorua, a city renowned for boiling mud pools, geysers and Māori culture. Between volcanic parks and cultural experiences, Rotorua offers a fascinating mix of natural wonders and heritage.

Suggested Activity – Wai‑O‑Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Explore colourful geothermal features, bubbling mud pools and daily geyser eruptions in this extraordinary volcanic park.

Includes: Te Pā Tū Evening Māori Cultural Experience - Dinner Included

Experience an immersive evening of Māori culture with powerful performances, storytelling, and a seasonal feast set within a forest village environment.

Leave Rotorua and head through lush rural countryside to Matamata, where you’ll step straight into Middle‑earth at the Hobbiton Movie Set. After exploring iconic hobbit holes and the Green Dragon Inn, continue north through dairy country to vibrant Auckland.

Includes: Hobbiton Movie Set Tour from Shires Rest
Walk the famous Shire, visit hobbit holes and hear behind‑the‑scenes stories from this beloved film set.

Enjoy a final chance to experience Auckland’s harbour and city highlights before dropping off your rental car and continuing your onward journey.

Suggested Activity – Auckland Harbour Sailing Cruise with Explore
Sail the Waitematā Harbour for a relaxed, up‑close view of Auckland’s skyline, Harbour Bridge and coastal scenery from the water.