9 Day Natural South Island Self Drive

Touch down in Christchurch, where you’ll be welcomed with a warm Kiwi greeting and a private transfer to your hotel. It’s time to unwind and start soaking up the laid-back charm of the South Island.

Private Transfer Christchurch Airport to Your Accommodation
A smooth private transfer gets you straight to your accommodation without any fuss. It's the perfect start to your South Island journey.

Welcome to Christchurch City
Known as the Garden City, Christchurch blends old-world elegance with modern creativity, parks, and innovation. Ride a historic tram, visit the Botanic Gardens or check out the quirky Transitional Cathedral — yes, it really is made from cardboard!

After collecting your rental car, you’ll head south across the sprawling Canterbury Plains. The journey takes you through small towns, coastal gems and some of the South Island’s oldest architecture.

Collect Your Rental Car
Pick up your vehicle and hit the road at your own pace — comfort and flexibility are the name of the game. You can also choose from a range of upgrade options if you fancy something bigger or bolder.

Drive Christchurch to Dunedin
Cruise over the Rakaia Bridge and stop off at Oamaru to see its iconic white stone buildings and possibly blue penguins at dusk. Don’t miss the Moeraki Boulders before arriving in Dunedin with its strong Scottish heritage and lively atmosphere.

Dunedin blends historic charm with coastal adventure, all wrapped in a uniquely creative spirit. Today is all about exploring the wild Otago Peninsula and the incredible wildlife that calls it home.

Wildlife Peninsula Encounter & Monarch Wildlife Cruise
Join a guided small-group tour to spot sea lions, penguins and albatross in their natural environment. You'll cruise around Taiaroa Head, visit conservation reserves, and experience rare wildlife up close in one of NZ’s best nature spots.

Today’s scenic drive hugs the wild southern coast through the Catlins — a hidden gem full of cliffs, waterfalls, and remote beaches. Take your time exploring before arriving in lakeside Te Anau.

Drive to Te Anau via Catlins & Invercargill
From Nugget Point to Riverton, today is filled with off-the-beaten-track beauty and charming rural towns. You’ll pass through Invercargill before continuing north to peaceful Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland.

Te Anau Glowworm Caves Tour with RealNZ
Start with a scenic lake cruise before heading underground to see a magical galaxy of glowworms in ancient limestone caves. This gentle adventure is a highlight for all ages.

Today’s drive winds through Southland’s rolling farmland before giving way to the dramatic shores of Lake Wakatipu. As Queenstown comes into view, the Remarkables range sets the tone for what’s to come.

Drive to Queenstown via Devil’s Staircase
Watch the landscape transform as you head north, with breathtaking views around every bend. The approach into Queenstown is one of the most scenic drives in the country.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY – Skyline Gondola Ride
Soar high above Queenstown on the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere and take in panoramic mountain and lake views. It’s the best seat in town — especially at sunset!

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY – Shotover Jet Boat Ride
Brace yourself for the ultimate adrenaline rush as you race through narrow river canyons with sharp turns and epic spins. It’s fast, wet, and totally unforgettable.

Head deep into Mt Aspiring National Park today on a jet boat safari that combines speed, storytelling, and wilderness views. This is Queenstown adventure at its finest — thrilling yet family-friendly.

Wilderness Jet Experience with Dart River Safaris
Fly through braided rivers, pause for short nature walks, and hear stories of Māori legends and film locations from your expert guides. It’s the perfect mix of nature, culture, and action.

Today you leave the buzz of Queenstown behind and travel through vineyards, alpine passes, and glacier-fed rivers. Your destination is New Zealand’s tallest peak, Aoraki/Mt Cook.

Drive to Aoraki/Mt Cook via Kawarau Gorge & Lindis Pass
Stop in Cromwell for fresh fruit or wine, then cross the scenic Lindis Pass into the wide open Mackenzie Basin. The views from Lake Pukaki to Aoraki/Mt Cook are absolutely breathtaking.

Glacier Explorers Tour
Cruise among 500-year-old icebergs on the Tasman Glacier lake, surrounded by towering peaks and deep blue ice. It’s one of the only places in the world where this kind of experience is possible.

Wave goodbye to the mountains as you head back across the Canterbury Plains toward Christchurch. Today’s drive takes you past lakes, lupin-covered fields and through some of the South Island’s most peaceful towns.

Stop at Lake Tekapo
With its famous turquoise waters and Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Tekapo is a must-see photo stop. You might even opt for a relaxing soak in the hot pools before continuing.

Christchurch Gondola Ride
Ride high above Christchurch on a scenic gondola for panoramic views of the city, Lyttelton Harbour, and the Southern Alps. It’s a fun and peaceful way to end your South Island road trip.

Christchurch Departure

Your adventure wraps up today as you return your vehicle and prepare for your onward journey. If time allows, fit in a scenic detour to Lyttelton or one last walk in the Botanic Gardens.

Return Rental Car to Christchurch Airport
Drop off your car with ease and check in for your flight. You’ll be heading home with a heart full of memories and maybe a few sandflies bites too — proof of a real South Island roadie!

Farewell from Aotearoa / New Zealand
From glowworms and glaciers to penguins and peaks, this South Island adventure has delivered nature at its finest. Mā te wā — see you again soon!