Set off from Christchurch and cruise through the Mackenzie Basin, where Lake Tekapo and Mt Cook dazzle with snow-capped beauty and glacier-fed lakes. Spend time under the stars in the dark sky reserve or cruise among 500-year-old icebergs on a guided lake tour. The journey then takes you to Queenstown for world-class dining, scenic lake cruises, and a choice of thrill-seeking activities or leisurely escapes.
Follow the wild West Coast to the lush rainforests and icy blue landscapes of Franz Josef Glacier. Take a scenic helicopter ride or simply soak in the hot pools beneath towering alpine cliffs. Your adventure wraps up with the legendary TranzAlpine train, gliding through Arthur’s Pass before returning to Christchurch — the perfect ending to a week of natural marvels.
Tour code: 13
Your South Island journey begins in Christchurch, a city that’s constantly evolving yet steeped in tradition. After touching down, a private driver is waiting to whisk you away to your central accommodation.
Private Transfer Christchurch International Airport to Christchurch Accommodation
This comfortable transfer is the easiest way to start your trip without a hitch. Sit back and take in your first glimpses of Canterbury as you’re driven to your hotel.
Welcome to Christchurch City
With its tree-lined streets, blooming gardens, and art-filled laneways, Christchurch offers a peaceful yet vibrant welcome. Take a tram ride, wander the Botanic Gardens, or visit the unique Cardboard Cathedral for a taste of the city’s spirit.
The George Hotel is a boutique 5-star stay, set right beside the beautiful Hagley Park. You’re just a short stroll from the gardens, galleries, and buzzing eateries of the city centre. With refined service and onsite dining at 50 Bistro, you’re in for a very comfortable first night.
Collect your car and leave the city behind as you head into the wide-open spaces of the Mackenzie Basin. Snow-capped peaks, glacier-fed lakes and endless skies guide your way to Aoraki Mt Cook National Park.
Collect Rental Car
Choose your ride for the road ahead and get behind the wheel for an unforgettable self-drive journey. Whether you go with comfort or adventure, your car is your ticket to freedom.
Christchurch to Aoraki-Mt Cook National Park
This scenic drive takes you across the Canterbury Plains, past Geraldine and over Burkes Pass into the high country. The turquoise waters of Lakes Tekapo and Pukaki lead you straight to the foot of Aoraki/Mt Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain.
Suggested Activity – Glacier Explorers
Take to the water on a rare guided boat tour across the terminal lake of the Tasman Glacier. You’ll float among ancient icebergs and get up close to towering ice cliffs – an unforgettable perspective of this mighty landscape..
Set in the heart of Aoraki Mt Cook Village, the Hermitage Hotel offers sweeping alpine views and modern comforts. This iconic hotel has welcomed explorers for over a century, and its rooms are designed to let the scenery shine. Enjoy a peaceful evening beneath the stars with the peaks of the Southern Alps just outside your window.
Meals included: Breakfast
Today you head south past big-sky views, glacial valleys and gold-rush towns before arriving in Queenstown. The road winds through dramatic gorges and vineyards, ending at a lakefront town framed by towering mountains.
Suggested Activity – TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner
Board the historic steamship TSS Earnslaw and cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station. There, you’ll enjoy a gourmet BBQ feast in a stunning lakeside setting, followed by a farm demonstration before cruising back under the stars.
In a quiet spot just a short walk from the town centre, Millennium Hotel Queenstown gives you easy access to all the action. Whether you’re keen on adventure sports or scenic strolls, this is an ideal base. Stylish rooms, great dining and mountain views make it a top choice for your Queenstown stay.
Meals included: Breakfast
This stunning drive takes you over alpine passes, past deep-blue lakes, and into the ancient rainforests of the West Coast. It’s one of the most scenic stretches in New Zealand, ending in glacier country.
Suggested Activity – Twin Glacier Scenic Helicopter Flight with The Helicopter Line
See both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers from above on a breathtaking flight over rugged terrain. You’ll land on the snow for an unforgettable view of icy rivers carving their way through steep valleys.
Set right in Franz Josef Village, Scenic Hotel places you close to cafes, hot pools, and glacier access. Comfortable rooms and friendly staff make this a welcoming base in the heart of Westland. After your drive or scenic flight, it’s the perfect spot to rest, recharge and admire the alpine surroundings.
Meals included: Breakfast
Today you follow the coastline north to Greymouth before boarding one of the world’s most scenic train journeys. From rainforest to high alpine passes and rolling plains, this is the South Island at its most dramatic.
TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch
Hop aboard the TranzAlpine and settle in for a journey across the spine of the South Island. Glass-roofed carriages let you soak in soaring peaks, braided rivers and remote valleys from the comfort of your seat.
Shared Transfer from Christchurch Train Station to Christchurch CBD Accommodation
Once you arrive back in Christchurch, a driver is waiting to take you to your accommodation. This quick and easy transfer gets you settled in with no hassle.
Return to The George for a final night in comfort and elegance. After a week of epic scenery, this peaceful hotel by the park is a lovely place to reflect. Enjoy fine dining or take a gentle evening walk – a perfect end to your loop of the South Island.
Meals included: Breakfast
Your journey through lakes, mountains and glaciers wraps up today with a private airport transfer. It’s time to say mā te wā – see you again soon.
Private Transfer from Christchurch Accommodation to Christchurch International Airport
A professional driver collects you from your hotel and gets you to the airport in good time. It’s a relaxed and easy way to finish your South Island adventure.
Meals included: Breakfast
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.
Fuel costs are not included in self-drive packages. You are responsible for refuelling the rental car during your trip. Fuel stations are easily accessible throughout New Zealand, and it is advisable to plan fuel stops to ensure you have sufficient fuel for longer drives, especially in remote areas.
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.
In New Zealand, the minimum age to hire a car varies among rental agencies. Generally, most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old to rent a car. However, some companies may have a minimum age requirement of 25 or even 18, but additional fees or restrictions may apply for younger drivers.
It's important to note that drivers under the age of 25 may be subject to a "young driver surcharge" imposed by rental agencies. This surcharge is an additional fee intended to cover the increased insurance risk associated with younger drivers.
To ensure accurate and up-to-date information regarding the minimum age requirements and any associated fees, it is recommended to directly contact the rental agency you are considering or refer to their website for specific details.
If your foreign driver's licence is not in English, you are required to have an authorized translation of your licence or secure an international driving permit (IDP) to carry alongside your licence when driving in New Zealand. To find a roster of sanctioned translators, please refer to the section on Approved Translators.
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