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South Island

Start: Queenstown
Finish: Christchurch
Location: Queenstown
Duration: 7 days
Distance: 751.4 km

Discover New Zealand's Most Spectacular Alpine Landscapes

The 7 Day Mountains, Glaciers & Lakes Self Drive showcases some of the South Island's most iconic scenery, taking you from the adventure capital of Queenstown to the tranquil shores of Lake Brunner. Along the way, you'll experience sparkling lakes, towering mountain ranges, lush rainforests and dramatic glacier landscapes. Every day offers a new perspective on New Zealand's remarkable natural beauty.

Drive one of the country's most scenic routes through the Crown Range, Haast Pass and Arthur's Pass National Park while enjoying the freedom to stop wherever the views inspire you. Explore charming alpine towns including Wanaka and Franz Josef, each offering its own unique atmosphere and unforgettable experiences. With comfortable accommodation included throughout, this journey combines flexibility with convenience.

Experience Glaciers, Lakes and Unique Wildlife

Cruise across Lake Wānaka to the predator-free Mou Waho Island, where native birdlife thrives and panoramic alpine views await. Take an unforgettable heli-hike onto Franz Josef Glacier, exploring spectacular blue ice formations with an experienced guide. Before leaving the West Coast, enjoy a walk through the rainforest canopy on the West Coast Treetop Walk for a completely different perspective of this remarkable region.

Whether you're admiring the mirror-like waters of Lake Wānaka, standing beside ancient glaciers or driving through lush native rainforest, every day delivers memorable experiences. This itinerary perfectly balances guided highlights with plenty of free time to discover hidden gems at your own pace. It's an ideal self-drive holiday for travellers seeking breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventure and authentic New Zealand experiences.

Tour code: NZB267DMGL

  • 7 Days Car Hire in a Compact Car or Similar
    • Pick Up Queenstown & Drop Off Christchurch
  • 6 Nights in 3.5-4 Star Accommodation
    • 1 Night Queenstown
    • 2 Nights Wanaka
    • 2 Nights Franz Josef
    • 1 Night Lake Brunner
  • Mou Waho Island Cruise & Guided Walk
  • 2.5 Hour Franz Josef Heli Hike
  • West Coast Tree Top Walk Entry

Flexible Itineraries

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

Frequently asked questions

If your rental vehicle breaks down, contact the rental company's roadside assistance service using the details provided in your rental agreement. Assistance arrangements and any applicable charges depend on the rental company's terms and conditions.

For emergencies involving immediate danger, including serious accidents or medical emergencies, call 111 in New Zealand.

Keep your rental agreement, emergency contact details and travel insurance information accessible throughout your journey.

For more advice on planning your trip, explore our New Zealand self-drive holiday packages.

Yes. Accommodation can be tailored to your preferences, budget and chosen itinerary. Options may include hotels, motels, boutique lodges and luxury properties, depending on the destinations visited.

Accommodation upgrades and alternative properties can be requested, subject to availability and any additional costs.

Explore our Christchurch return self-drive holidays for examples of different South Island itineraries.

Yes. Christchurch self-drive holidays can be customised to suit your travel plans. Depending on the itinerary, you can extend your holiday, add extra nights in selected destinations or adjust your route to include additional attractions.

Travellers wanting to explore both islands can consider our Christchurch to Auckland Self Drive Tours, while those preferring a South Island journey can explore Christchurch return self-drive holidays.

Personal travel insurance is generally not included in our self-drive holiday packages and should be arranged separately.

Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended to help protect against unexpected medical expenses, cancellations, travel disruptions and other unforeseen circumstances, subject to policy conditions.

Rental vehicle insurance is separate from personal travel insurance. Cover, excess amounts and optional excess-reduction arrangements depend on the rental agreement and package inclusions.

Check the details of your chosen New Zealand self-drive holiday before booking.

All our New Zealand self-drive holiday packages that include car rental feature hybrid vehicles as standard. Fully electric vehicles (EVs) are also available as an option, subject to availability.

Vehicle categories depend on passenger numbers, luggage requirements and individual travel arrangements. Your holiday quotation will confirm the vehicle category, collection and return locations, and applicable rental conditions.

Explore our New Zealand Self Drive Holidays for more information about available holiday options.

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