14 Day New Zealand Must Do Self Drive Tour

Touch down in Christchurch and meet your private driver for a smooth transfer to your accommodation. This garden city balances leafy spaces with evolving urban culture, setting up a gentle and scenic start to your tour.

Suggested Activity – Discover Christchurch Afternoon Tour
Spend the afternoon on a guided tour that explains how the city has responded to major earthquakes and how it continues to grow with vibrant energy. You’ll pass historic sites, find blossoming gardens, and learn why locals are proud of their unique city.

Today begins with one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys, threading through river valleys and the Southern Alps before arriving at Greymouth. On collecting your rental car, you’ll follow coastal roads and lush rainforest sights on your way south to Franz Josef.

Be sure to stop at Hokitika Gorge’s jade‑coloured waters and spot rare birds at Whataroa. The ever‑changing West Coast landscapes make this drive an adventure at every turn.

Immerse yourself in the rich forest and glacier terrain of Franz Josef with a guided nature walk that highlights geology, native flora and birdlife. Your guide will bring this iconic landscape to life with local stories and insights.

Suggested Activity – Twin Glacier Scenic Helicopter Flight
Soar above two spectacular glaciers, then land atop ice fields for breathtaking views and crisp mountain air. Aerial perspectives reveal just how dynamic New Zealand’s terrain truly is.

Driving south, you’ll leave rainforest behind for ever‑changing mountain passes, wide valleys and crystalline lakes. The Crown Range brings dramatic elevation and views before descending into the alpine basin that hosts Queenstown.

There are no suggested sub‑headings today, but sights like Knights Point and the Blue Pools offer great stops along the route. The contrast from coast to high alpine panorama makes this a memorable road day.

Take to the skies and waters with a flight and cruise combination that highlights the rugged beauty of Milford Sound and Fiordland. Nature’s grandeur unfolds from high above and again at sea level as you cruise between towering cliffs and waterfalls.

There are no suggested sub‑headings today, but combining flight with cruise delivers a dynamic view of this World Heritage area. The landscape here remains one of New Zealand’s most iconic nature experiences.

Queenstown is renowned for its combination of adventure thrills and relaxed lakeside charm, giving you endless options for your full day of exploration. Whether you choose scenic rides, leisurely walks, or heart‑pounding activities, this town delivers big experiences.

Suggested Activity – Gold Heritage: Skippers Canyon Tour
Board a rugged 4WD for a journey into historic Skippers Canyon, carved by pioneering settlers and the Shotover River. Along the way, captivating viewpoints and stories from your guide make this tour both thrilling and informative.

Head inland through wine country and alpine tussock flats en route to the majestic peaks surrounding Aoraki/Mt Cook Village. The mix of wide valleys and snow‑capped mountains makes this one of the South Island’s most scenic drives.

Suggested Activity – Glacier Explorers
Cruise between towering icebergs and see the terminal face of New Zealand’s longest glacier up close on a specially designed boat. It’s a rare way to appreciate glacial formations and sparkling lakes from the water.

Begin your day with views of Lake Pukaki and the Alps, then journey through high country scenery back toward Christchurch. Lakeside stops and sweeping plains make this transition from mountains to city a delight.

Suggested Activity – International Antarctic Centre General Admission
Step into a simulated Antarctic environment where interactive displays and real little blue penguins bring polar life to life. You’ll feel the chill and learn about modern research and exploration in this engaging attraction.

Suggested Activity – Dinner onboard the Christchurch Restaurant Tram
Dine on a four‑course menu as the historic tram tours Christchurch’s captivating streets at night. This unique meal experience pairs delicious cuisine with city views in motion.

Travel north through North Canterbury’s rolling wine country and consider a rejuvenating soak in Hanmer Springs hot pools. The coastline appears as you approach Kaikōura, where sea and mountain meet dramatically.

Suggested Activity – Ocean’s Cabin with Whale Watch Kaikōura
Join a marine‑based whale watching experience for up‑close sightings of giant sperm whales and other marine life. Dolphins, seals and seabirds often accompany these spectacular encounters on the water.

Follow the scenic coastline north before traversing wine country en route to Picton. From there, the ferry crosses the Marlborough Sounds and Cook Strait, blending sea and island scenery before arriving in Wellington.

The combination of ocean views and island landscapes makes this transition a visual highlight. The ferry cruise is one of New Zealand’s most picturesque sea journeys.

Today’s drive takes you from the harbour city up through the Kapiti Coast, past lakes and volcanic terrain toward Rotorua. You’ll pass rural towns and dramatic landscapes before the geothermal steam of Rotorua signals arrival.

Suggested Activity – Rotorua Duck Tours City & Lakes Tour
Travel through town and onto water aboard an amphibious vehicle that splashes into lakes for unforgettable views. Your guide will share insights into the region’s history, lakes and unique geothermal backdrop.

Experience the geothermal wonders of Te Puia, home to geysers, bubbling mud pools and Māori cultural artistry. The Kiwi Conservation Centre there highlights native wildlife and traditional carving and weaving.

Original Ziplining Experience with Rotorua Canopy Tours
Explore forests from above and within as you glide along ziplines and cross swing bridges with expert local guides. You’ll feel the energy of the forest and gain a new appreciation for conservation efforts.

Leave the geothermal landscape behind and roll through lush Waikato farmland toward the enchanting Hobbiton Movie Set. After exploring this cinematic wonder, continue north to the vibrant metropolis of Auckland.

There are no suggested sub‑headings today, but Hobbiton’s lush pastures and Auckland’s skyline offer contrasting and memorable experiences. This day blends pastoral charm with urban energy.

Enjoy a free morning in Auckland to explore its harbour, markets and streets before returning your car at the airport. It’s a relaxing end to a rich two‑week journey across diverse landscapes.

There are no suggested sub‑headings today, but this last morning is a great chance for final sightseeing or souvenir shopping. In Māori, mā te wā means “until next time,” reminding you that New Zealand often calls visitors back again.