The 7 Day Southern Scenes Self Drive brings New Zealand’s South Island to life for Lord of the Rings fans and lovers of dramatic scenery. Starting in Christchurch, your journey begins with a guided tour to Edoras—filmed on Mount Sunday—where you can hold legendary props and stand where the Riders of Rohan once rode. It’s a hands-on, breathtaking experience with real cinematic history.
Next, drive to the blue waters of Lake Tekapo and the towering peaks of Aoraki/Mt Cook for more picture-perfect stops. Your final days are based in Queenstown, with a full-day Glenorchy tour through the Wakatipu Basin, home to Isengard, Lothlórien and more. This self-drive combines freedom, fantasy, and unforgettable alpine backdrops for the ultimate South Island adventure.
All itineraries can be amended or combined with other itineraries. Please advise amendments when requesting a quote.
Tour code: GONZ7DSSSD
On your arrival in Christchurch, pick up your rental car at the airport.
Enjoy a two-night stay in Christchurch, giving you time to explore the city's attractions and vibrant atmosphere.
Stay 2 nights in Christchurch
Take a guided tour of The Lord of the Rings filming locations in Canterbury, including the stunning Mt Potts high country station, home to Mt Sunday. This once-peaceful mountain was transformed into Edoras for the films, and you’ll have the chance to walk to its summit, just as Éowyn did, to soak in the breathtaking views.
See exclusive behind-the-scenes photos of Edoras under construction and the Misty Mountains backdrop used for Helm’s Deep. Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch on tour, and get hands-on with movie replicas, including Aragorn’s sword, King Théoden’s sword, Gimli’s axe, Gandalf’s staff, and the Flag of Rohan.
Travel the scenic route today through Darfield, Rakaia Gorge, and Geraldine, crossing the vast Canterbury Plains before arriving in the picturesque town of Lake Tekapo.
The afternoon is yours to explore—visit the Earth & Sky Observatory for a stargazing experience, take a scenic flight over Mt Cook, or stop by the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and Collie Dog Memorial.
Overnight stay in Lake Tekapo.
Leave Lake Tekapo this morning and follow the shores of Lake Pukaki towards Mt Cook. Once there, take a short walk or join one of the exciting sightseeing activities at the Hermitage Hotel. Options include a Glacier Explorers boat cruise on Tasman Lake to see the Tasman Glacier, scenic ski plane or helicopter flights, or a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.
In the afternoon, continue your journey to Queenstown, travelling through the breathtaking landscapes of the Lindis Pass.
3 nights accommodation in Queenstown
Spend two free days exploring Queenstown, a world-renowned alpine resort offering everything from high-adrenaline adventures to luxury experiences. Thrill-seekers can try bungy jumping, a Shotover Jet boat ride, horse trekking, rafting, or river surfing. For a more relaxed pace, indulge in gourmet food and wine, spa treatments, or a round of golf at one of the region’s scenic courses.
Just a short drive away, the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown sits beside the Arrow River, offering charming heritage streets, boutique shops, and picturesque walking trails.
Today, set off on a full-day tour of The Lord of the Rings filming locations in Queenstown and see why this stunning region was chosen to bring Middle-earth to life. Visit breathtaking landscapes featured in the films while your guide shares behind-the-scenes insights and fascinating stories.
Optional: Stay an extra night in Queenstown
For another unforgettable experience, take a full-day tour to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound. Enjoy a scenic cruise through the spectacular fiord, surrounded by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. A picnic lunch is included.
This morning you are free to explore Queenstown before dropping off your car in the afternoon at Queenstown Airport and catching your flight home.
Yes, most rental car companies allow additional drivers to be included in the rental agreement, although fees and conditions vary between providers.
All drivers must meet the rental company's age and driving licence requirements and be registered on the rental agreement before driving.
Yes, you can customise your accommodation to suit your preferences and budget. Our Christchurch self-drive holidays typically include pre-arranged accommodation, ranging from comfortable hotels and motels to boutique lodges and luxury properties. You can request accommodation upgrades or alternative properties, subject to availability and any additional costs.
Yes. Christchurch return self-drive tours can be customised to suit your travel plans. You can extend your holiday, add extra nights in selected destinations or adjust your route to include additional South Island attractions.
For travellers wanting to explore both islands, our Christchurch to Auckland Self Drive Tours offer alternative itineraries travelling north.
You can also browse our Christchurch self-drive holidays for more itinerary ideas.
Travel insurance is typically not included in self-drive packages, so it is essential to purchase comprehensive travel insurance separately. Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unforeseen events that may occur during your self-drive holiday.
All-inclusive insurance can also be added to your rental car if you book your self-drive package with us.
Our self-drive packages are based on hybrid rental vehicles, with electric or petrol vehicles available if preferred, subject to availability. Tell us your passenger numbers, luggage requirements and vehicle preference when enquiring. For example, the 10 Day Southern Sojourn Self Drive includes an intermediate rental car, with upgrades available. Your quote will confirm the vehicle category, fuel type and collection and return arrangements.
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