6 Day Christchurch to Queenstown Food & Wine Self Drive

Touch down in Christchurch, where your South Island food and wine adventure begins. A private transfer will whisk you into the city to settle in and soak up the relaxed vibe of the Garden City.

Private Transfer Christchurch International Airport to Christchurch Accommodation
Your driver will greet you on arrival and deliver you straight to your hotel in comfort, so you can start your journey stress-free.

Suggested Activity – Dinner onboard the Christchurch Restaurant Tram
Dine in motion on New Zealand’s only restaurant tram, indulging in a four-course fine dining experience as you tour central Christchurch. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy both the city sights and delicious local flavours on your first night.

Today, you’ll escape the city for the rolling vineyards of the Waipara Valley, just 45 minutes north. This wine trail introduces you to some of Canterbury’s finest boutique wineries and a locally inspired lunch.

Waipara Valley Wine Trail with Leisure Tours – Lunch Included
Visit a handpicked selection of vineyards like Pegasus Bay, Waipara Springs, and Greystone, with expert commentary and plenty of tastings.
Enjoy a delicious shared platter lunch at Waipara Springs, perfectly matched to the wines of the region.

Pick up your rental car this morning and hit the road towards the spectacular Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. Today’s drive takes you past turquoise lakes, alpine towns, and wide open landscapes before reaching the foot of New Zealand’s highest peak.

Collect Rental Car
Choose your preferred vehicle for the next part of your journey, with options to suit all travel styles.
Having your own wheels gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Christchurch to Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park
Stop for coffee in Geraldine or a photo op at Lake Tekapo before the dramatic arrival into Aoraki/Mt Cook Village.
Every twist in the road brings new photo-worthy views, so take your time.

Dinner: The Alpine Restaurant Buffet Dinner
Enjoy a hearty buffet dinner with unbeatable mountain views at The Hermitage’s Alpine Restaurant.
It’s the perfect way to end a scenic day of travel through the Southern Alps.

Leave the high country behind as you journey into Central Otago, crossing Lindis Pass and following the Kawarau River towards Queenstown. The changing scenery is as dramatic as it is diverse, with plenty of small towns and hidden gems along the way.

Suggested Activity – Queenstown Skyline Gondola Ride
Ride the steepest gondola in the Southern Hemisphere to panoramic views over Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding peaks. It’s a must-do introduction to the beauty and buzz of this alpine resort town.

Today’s all about tasting the best of the Central Otago wine scene on a private guided tour. With a local expert leading the way, you’ll visit handpicked wineries in the Queenstown, Gibbston, and Bannockburn areas.

Appellation Private Boutique Wine Tour – Lunch Included
This tailored experience includes tastings at four boutique vineyards, a gourmet platter lunch at Carrick Winery, and a scenic drive through Cromwell and the Kawarau Gorge.
It’s a relaxed yet refined way to explore the region's world-class wine and spectacular landscapes.

Enjoy one last look at Queenstown’s stunning surroundings before returning your rental car at the airport. As you leave the South Island, you’ll carry memories of rich wines, iconic landscapes and genuine Kiwi hospitality.

Return your vehicle to Queenstown Airport
Drop off your rental car with ease, ready for your onward journey or flight home.
It’s been a flavour-packed adventure from start to finish.