10 Day North to South Fishing Adventure Self Drive

Your first day begins in New Zealand’s lively capital, a city renowned for its culture, creative spirit and harbour setting. Explore Wellington on foot, wander its vibrant waterfront and taste excellent local cuisine in the evening.

Private Transfer Wellington Airport to Your Accommodation with In Style Executive
Once you arrive, a private transfer will take you seamlessly to your accommodation so you can start your journey relaxed and refreshed. Sit back as you enjoy views of the harbour and city skyline en route.

This morning, you’ll cross the Cook Strait aboard the Interislander, one of the most scenic ferry journeys in the world. Relax in the Premium Plus Lounge while you enjoy complimentary refreshments and comfortable seating, making the voyage even more enjoyable. As you enter the Marlborough Sounds, picturesque bays and hills provide the perfect backdrop for photos and fresh sea air.

Once in Picton, you’ll pick up your vehicle and prepare for your fishing road trip south. The included intermediate car is comfortable and ideal for exploring, but there’s a full range available if you want something larger or more rugged.

Picton to Blenheim
A short drive takes you into Marlborough, New Zealand’s premier wine district, where rolling vineyards and the dry hills create a striking landscape. It’s a great introduction to Marlborough’s renowned culture of food and wine.

Today offers an exciting fishing journey through the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound with an experienced local skipper. The sheltered waters and abundant marine life make this an ideal spot to cast a line and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Your vessel, purpose‑built for fishing in these waters, comes with all gear and tackle supplied so you can focus on the experience. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first‑timer, the knowledgeable skipper will help you make the most of this memorable outing.

Today’s drive takes you along some of the most dramatic coastline in the South Island, winding between the Pacific Ocean and Kaikōura Ranges. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and stunning sea views as you travel.

Kaikōura is famed for its marine encounters, from enormous whales to playful dolphins — making it a highlight of this journey.

Suggested Activity – Ocean’s Cabin with Whale Watch Kaikōura
This optional cruise brings you face‑to‑face with majestic sperm whales and other sea life that frequent Kaikōura’s nutrient‑rich waters. With excellent guides and unforgettable views, it’s a truly iconic marine experience.

This morning’s 3 hour fishing charter trip puts you on the water with a skilled skipper and small group, fishing among the coastal beauty of Kaikōura. Expect to target species like perch and blue cod, with opportunities to check cray pots for local crayfish.

Top Catch Charters are known for their friendly approach and sustainable practices, ensuring a rewarding and responsible fishing experience. The small size of the boat makes for a personalised day out, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery too.

Kaikōura to Akaroa
The road today offers a mix of coastal views, vineyard plains and rolling hills as you make your way through Christchurch towards Banks Peninsula. This scenic drive introduces the region’s volcanic landscapes and historic port towns.

Akaroa’s French colonial heritage and wildlife‑rich harbour make it one of the South Island’s most enchanting stops.

Akaroa Harbour Nature Cruise with Black Cat
Board a nature cruise to discover Hector’s dolphins, Little Blue penguins and an array of seabirds among volcanic cliffs and hidden coves. The boat glides through the harbour’s calm waters, offering fantastic wildlife sightings and a memorable way to absorb the local atmosphere.

Akaroa to Christchurch (via Lyttelton)
After your cruise, continue around the harbour via Lyttelton, a port town with deep historical ties. Follow the scenic route over the hills and into Christchurch, the South Island’s largest city.

Today you’ll leave the plains behind and climb into the breathtaking Mackenzie Country, a high‑country region of turquoise lakes and sweeping vistas. This drive is scenic and rewarding, with plenty of stops for photos and short walks.

Lake Tekapo’s stunning colour and mountainous backdrop make it one of New Zealand’s most iconic lake settings — a perfect place for fishing and relaxation.

Fishing at Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo is renowned for brown and rainbow trout fishing, with excellent opportunities both from shore and by boat. Snow‑fed waters give it that striking turquoise hue that delights anglers and photographers alike. With clear streams and quiet access points, it’s a prime location to try your luck fishing in these peaceful waters.

Today’s journey leads you through diverse landscapes — from glacial lakes and tussock hills to historic gold‑rush towns. The drive across the Lindis Pass into Central Otago offers dramatic panoramas before descending toward Queenstown’s alpine splendour.

Queenstown’s mix of rugged beauty, adventure activities and lakefront charm makes it a fitting finale to your North‑South adventure.

TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner
In the evening, cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard the vintage TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm. A hearty gourmet BBQ dinner showcasing local produce awaits, served with stunning lakeside views.

After dinner enjoy a farm demonstration and watch the dogs in action before returning under starry skies to Queenstown.

Spend this morning on Lake Wakatipu with a local fishing crew and fellow anglers, enjoying a 3 hour shared fishing charter experience. With expert knowledge of the best spots, you’re set up for an exciting and rewarding few hours on the water.

Laugh, relax and learn as you cast lines against a backdrop of alpine scenery — it’s a fantastic way to experience South Island freshwater fishing.

Return Your Vehicle to Queenstown Airport
Take a last opportunity to enjoy Queenstown’s lively village before returning your rental car at the airport. Use any spare time to grab gifts or walk by the lake one final time.

Farewell from Aotearoa / New Zealand
As your unforgettable fishing adventure comes to a close, take with you memories of pristine waters, stunning landscapes and warm Kiwi hospitality. In Māori, mā te wā isn’t goodbye — it means “see you again soon”.