10 Day Mountains, Fiords and Glaciers Family Self Drive

Welcome to beautiful Queenstown — your family’s first stop in this extraordinary journey through mountains, lakes and glaciers. Today is all about settling in and soaking up the stunning alpine scenery that surrounds this lively resort town.

Private Transfer Queenstown Airport to Your Accommodation
You’ll be met on arrival and whisked comfortably to your hotel, starting your adventure with ease. Sit back, enjoy the views, and let your driver introduce you to Queenstown’s dramatic landscape.

Nestled beside Lake Wakatipu and framed by The Remarkables, Queenstown is an exciting place packed with activities for all ages. Whether you choose adventure rides, scenic walks or lakeside dining, this town is a perfect introduction to New Zealand’s South Island.

Today combines spectacular scenery with high‑adrenaline fun, embracing Queenstown’s adventurous spirit. Your family will enjoy thrilling off‑road tracks and fast‑paced water rides against a backdrop of rugged hills and blue skies.

Lord of the Rings Queenstown Tour with Nomad Safaris
Get ready to explore famous Middle‑earth filming locations on rugged 4WD trails with engaging guides. You’ll learn behind‑the‑scenes tales and visit panoramic spots that make this tour memorable for fans and nature lovers alike.

Shotover Jet Canyon Jet Boat Ride
Hold on tight as you zoom through the narrow Shotover River Canyons at exhilarating speeds on a jet boat. Expect sharp turns, thrilling spins and unforgettable views — a signature Queenstown experience that’s great fun for older kids and teens.

Today is a full‑day immersion into one of Fiordland’s most serene and dramatic natural wonders. You and your family will experience rainforest, wildlife and sweeping fiord landscapes on an unforgettable marine journey.

Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise from Queenstown with RealNZ
Travel via coach and cruise to Doubtful Sound, passing from alpine landscapes into deep fiord country. Onboard the spacious catamaran, enjoy peaceful cruising, interpretive commentary and chances to spot dolphins, seals and native birds in their wild habitat.

Today you collect your rental car and begin a scenic drive across alpine regions, lakes and winding roads toward the West Coast. The journey weaves through spectacular landscapes, giving your family a taste of New Zealand’s diversity.

Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier via Wānaka
From Queenstown you’ll climb to Crown Range, pass tranquil lakes, and cross wild river valleys. Take a short walk to the Blue Pools before continuing through lush rainforests and coastal scenery toward the remarkable glaciers near Franz Josef.

Today is an unforgettable highlight for the whole family — flying by helicopter over two of New Zealand’s most iconic glaciers. The experience reveals icy terrain and rugged ridges that few get to see up close.

Twin Glacier Scenic Helicopter Flight with The Helicopter Line
Lift off and soar above Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers as your pilot shares insights about the landscape below. A snow landing at the head of a glacier offers an amazing chance to explore the ice and take incredible family photos.

Today’s adventure sees you return your rental car and board a world‑renowned scenic train. The iconic TranzAlpine railway winds through dramatic mountains, deep river valleys and lush forests on its way to Christchurch.

Follow the West Coast’s wild landscape north, pausing for coastal views, craft stores in Hokitika and gold‑rush history in Ross. At Greymouth you’ll leave your car at the station depot and prepare to board one of the world’s great train journeys.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch
Relax into your seat as the TranzAlpine traverses Arthur’s Pass and the Southern Alps, passing beech forests, alpine peaks and wide plains. Panoramic windows make this a memorable and comfortable way to see New Zealand’s dramatic interior.

On arrival in Christchurch, a private transfer will take you directly to your city accommodation. It’s a smooth and easy transition from train to hotel, letting you recharge ahead of your next days of discovery.

Today you’ll drive across the rolling landscape of Banks Peninsula toward the charming French‑influenced town of Akaroa. Expect scenic harbours, striking hills and a slower pace as you arrive beside Akaroa Harbour.

The drive winds through historical seaport Lyttelton, past volcanic hills and peaceful bays. Akaroa’s French heritage and natural beauty make it a delightful place to explore wildlife, shops and harbour views.

Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise with Black Cat
Step aboard to see Hector’s dolphins, little blue penguins, fur seals and a variety of sea birds in the calm waters of Akaroa Harbour. The cruise reveals volcanic scenery and quiet coves while offering excellent family wildlife viewing.

Today’s drive leads you inland across the Canterbury Plains and up through Mackenzie Country toward Aoraki Mt Cook. The landscape shifts from gentle fields to rugged alpine scenery as you approach New Zealand’s tallest peak.

Travel past iconic turquoise lakes and rolling countryside on your way to Mt Cook Village, a gateway to New Zealand’s high country. With plenty of scenic stops, it’s a day filled with ever‑changing vistas and anticipation of mountain experiences.

Glacier Explorers
On the Glacier Explorers tour you’ll cruise amongst towering icebergs on the Tasman Glacier terminal lake. Specially designed boats bring you close to spectacular ice formations for an unforgettable up‑close encounter.

Suggested Activity – Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre Museum and Theatre Explorer Pass
Discover the inspiring story of Sir Edmund Hillary and early alpine exploration at this immersive museum and theatre. With interactive exhibits and films, it’s a fun and educational family stop.

Leaving New Zealand’s highest mountains behind, you’ll circle back toward Queenstown through dramatic landscapes of alpine passes, deep gorges and winding lakes. Today combines natural beauty with a final dose of family fun in adventure capital Queenstown.

Your route leads through Central Otago’s valleys and past historic gold‑rush towns before approaching the Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu. With varied scenery and classic outback‑meets‑mountains views, it’s a journey to remember.

Suggested Activity – Gondola & 3 Luge Rides with Skyline Queenstown
Take the gondola to panoramic views high above Queenstown before racing down thrilling luge tracks with the family. It’s an activity that blends scenic wonder with playful fun — perfect for an afternoon treat.

TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner
Enjoy a delightful lakeside cruise aboard the vintage TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm where a sumptuous gourmet BBQ awaits. Delight in local produce, farm demonstrations and friendly farm animals before returning under starlit skies. This classic Kiwi experience is a wonderful way to celebrate your final night.

Enjoy one last morning in Queenstown before you say farewell to this remarkable corner of the world. Take in any final sights, walks or cafés before you head to the airport.

Return Your Vehicle to Queenstown Airport
Drive to the airport and drop off your rental car with ease, leaving you free to continue your travels or head home. It’s a smooth and stress‑free end to a brilliantly varied journey.

Farewell from Aotearoa / New Zealand
As you depart, take with you unforgettable family memories of mountains, misty fiords, glacial flights and warm Kiwi hospitality. In Māori, mā te wā is not goodbye — it’s see you again soon.