21 Day Northern Extended Encounter Self Drive

Christchurch is known as New Zealand’s Garden City, blending rich heritage with a youthful, evolving urban vibe. Today you’ll settle in and begin to feel the rhythm of this friendly South Island city.

Private Transfer – Christchurch International Airport to Christchurch Accommodation
Your private driver will meet you on arrival and deliver you to your city‑centre accommodation in comfort. This seamless transfer ensures a relaxing start to your New Zealand adventure.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY – Discover Christchurch Afternoon Tour
This half‑day sightseeing tour reveals the city’s earthquake recovery, architectural contrasts and colourful garden spaces. You’ll gain both historical context and local insight as you explore key landmarks.

Today you travel from Christchurch to the rugged West Coast, enjoying one of the world’s most scenic train journeys before picking up your rental car. The dramatic landscapes shift from alpine ranges to rainforest and wild coastline. A driver will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the rail station in good time. This smooth connection sets you up for a relaxed day of travel.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train – Christchurch to Greymouth (Great Journeys NZ)
Sit back in the Scenic Plus carriage as the TranzAlpine winds through the Southern Alps. Panoramic views, local cuisine and fine wine make this more than just a train trip—it’s a highlight in itself.

Collect Rental Car
Your chosen rental vehicle awaits for your onward self‑drive adventure. You can always upgrade to suit your preferences from the rental fleet.

Drive Greymouth to Franz Josef
Twisting south along the West Coast you’ll pass Hokitika Gorge, historic gold towns and ancient rainforests en route to Franz Josef. Frequent photo‑stops are a must as you soak in ever‑changing scenery.

Today you’ll get up close with one of New Zealand’s most spectacular glaciers before relaxing in a unique rainforest hot tub. It’s the perfect balance of adventure and rejuvenation.

Franz Josef Glacier Helihike – Franz Josef Glacier Guides
A scenic flight delivers you high above the Glacier before landing for a guided hike over ancient ice. Your guide will lead you through dramatic ice formations, offering expert insight into this extraordinary environment.

One Hour Private Tub – Waiho Hot Tubs
Sink into your own wood‑fired hot tub nestled in lush West Coast rainforest. The aromatic smoke and serene setting make it a truly memorable way to unwind.

oday’s drive takes you from the West Coast down through lush valleys and over alpine passes into the adventure capital, Queenstown. Enjoy stunning lakes, river gorges and mountain panoramas along the way.

Drive Franz Josef to Queenstown (via Wānaka)
You’ll travel through Fox Glacier, the Haast region and the breathtaking Blue Pools before reaching Wānaka and winding over Crown Range Road into Queenstown. Each stop offers a chance to stretch your legs and savour the dramatic landscapes.

TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner
Cruise across Lake Wakatipu on the historic TSS Earnslaw before enjoying a gourmet BBQ on the high country farm. You’ll meet farm animals and see sheep dogs in action as the sun sets over the lake.

Today you’ll enjoy a high‑speed jet boat journey deep into the heart of Mt Aspiring National Park, where river canyons and forest scenery captivate at every turn. It’s a thrilling way to connect with real Kiwi wilderness.

Wilderness Jet Experience – Dart River Safaris
Hold on as you speed along braided rivers and into magnificent mountain valleys. This exhilarating journey reveals landscapes that are inaccessible by foot or road.

Drive south through farmland and lakes to Manapouri, gateway to the remote wilderness of Doubtful Sound. Tonight you stay aboard the Fiordland Navigator surrounded by spectacular fiord scenery.

Drive Queenstown to Manapouri
The scenic drive follows the shoreline of Lake Wakatipu and crosses rolling Southland countryside. Keep an eye out for local birdlife and farm landscapes along the way.

Doubtful Sound Fiordland Navigator Overnight Cruise
Board the Navigator to explore serene Doubtful Sound with commentary on local wildlife and history. You’ll have time ashore or by water with kayaks or a stabicraft if you’re feeling adventurous.

Your cruise returns to Manapouri at midday, after which you’ll enjoy a short scenic drive to Te Anau. This town is the natural gateway to the wonders of Fiordland National Park.

Drive Manapouri to Te Anau
The journey follows lake edges and farmland, with views of majestic mountains in the distance. Te Anau is a relaxed base for exploring nearby nature attractions.

Ata Whenua – Shadowland Film at Fiordland Cinema
This breathtaking film showcases the raw beauty of Fiordland with dramatic footage and compelling sound. It’s a great way to deepen your appreciation of this unique wilderness.

Today’s drive takes you from Fiordland through Southland farmland and along the scenic Catlins coast before arriving in Dunedin. Expect coastal views, charming towns and heritage architecture.

Drive Te Anau to Dunedin
Rolling pastures, forests and shoreline scenery make this a truly classic South Island drive. There are plenty of spots to pause for photos or a beach walk.

Dinner at Camp Estate, Larnach Castle
Enjoy a four‑course dinner in the historic Larnach Castle dining room. The menu showcases local produce alongside fine regional wines.

Explore the wild side of the Otago Peninsula where sea lions, albatross and rare Yellow‑eyed Penguins await. This full‑day wildlife adventure is both educational and awe‑inspiring.

Wildlife Peninsula Encounter Tour & Monarch Cruise
This small‑group tour blends scenic driving with a wildlife cruise to view birds and marine life up close. Each stop offers new opportunities for photos and encounters with unique species.

Dinner at Camp Estate, Larnach Castle
Return to an elegant dinner highlighting local ingredients prepared with flair. The castle setting makes for a memorable evening.

Today’s drive leads you north through coastal towns, past hydro canals and into the high country of the Mackenzie Basin. Expect vast landscapes, turquoise lakes and the first glimpses of New Zealand’s highest peak.

Drive Dunedin to Mt Cook National Park
Your route includes Moeraki Boulders, Oamaru’s heritage quarter and Lake Pukaki’s stunning hues. It’s a scenic drive with plenty of postcard moments.

Glacier Explorers – Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake
Board a specialised vessel to view icebergs and cliffs where the glacier meets the lake. This rare experience brings you close to ice formations few visitors ever see.

The Panorama Room 3‑Course Dinner – The Hermitage Hotel
Dine in one of New Zealand’s most celebrated restaurants with mountain views as your backdrop. Fresh, local ingredients crafted into an elegant menu make each course a highlight.

Start your day with a final look at the majestic Southern Alps before heading north across the vast Canterbury Plains. Along the way, take time to admire glacial lakes, high country scenery and historic townships.

Drive Aoraki/Mt Cook to Christchurch via Lake Pukaki & Tekapo
Stop at Lake Pukaki's southern shore for sweeping alpine views and a visit to the regional visitor centre. Lake Tekapo offers more turquoise waters and is perfect for scenic flights or a relaxing soak in the hot springs.

Today’s drive takes you through the vineyards of Waipara and along the rugged Pacific coastline to Kaikōura. With mountains meeting the sea, it’s one of the most picturesque routes on the South Island.

Drive Christchurch to Kaikōura
Pause in Hanmer Springs if time allows for a dip in its mineral pools before continuing along the spectacular coastal highway. The ocean-hugging road makes for a scenic approach into Kaikōura.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY – Ocean’s Cabin with Whale Watch Kaikōura
Join New Zealand’s premier whale-watching company for an up-close marine wildlife experience. You'll have the chance to spot sperm whales, dolphins, albatross and more from the comfort of your cabin seat.

The coastal drive to Picton offers more dramatic views before crossing the Cook Strait to the North Island. Today includes sea life sightings, wine tasting options and a relaxing ferry journey.

Drive Kaikōura to Picton
Stop at Ohau Point to view seals basking on the rocks and take in sweeping coastal panoramas. The Marlborough wine region en route is perfect for a tasting or lunch stop before reaching Picton.

Interislander Ferry – Picton to Wellington
Enjoy three hours of breathtaking scenery as you cruise through the Marlborough Sounds and across the Cook Strait. Dolphins and seabirds are often spotted, and coastal landmarks provide a photogenic backdrop.

SUGGESTED UPGRADE – Premium Lounge, Interislander Ferry
Relax in style with complimentary snacks, drinks and stunning views in the child-free Premium Lounge. It’s the ideal way to enjoy the crossing in comfort.

Collect Rental Car – Wellington
Pick up your vehicle for the North Island portion of your journey. Choose a car that suits your travel style from a wide range of options.

Crossing the Remutaka Ranges, you’ll travel through the vineyards of Wairarapa and into the sunny Hawke’s Bay. This region is renowned for its art deco charm, warm climate and gourmet food and wine.

Drive Wellington to Napier via Wairarapa
Stop in Greytown or Martinborough for boutique shopping and wine tasting before reaching Napier’s palm-lined seafront. The drive offers a delightful mix of rural landscapes and coastal beauty.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY – Triple Chocolate Dipper Tour, Silky Oak Chocolate Company
Dive into chocolate heaven with tastings, a chocolate museum visit and a decadent dessert platter. Perfect for serious chocoholics and curious sweet tooths alike!

Spend the day soaking up the sunshine, coastal scenery and rich heritage of Napier and surrounds. From wineries to wildlife, there’s something to captivate every kind of traveller.

Explore Hawke’s Bay
Cycle scenic trails, taste world-class wines, or relax at Ocean Beach – the day is yours to enjoy. History lovers can delve into Napier’s 1930s past with a vintage car tour.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY – Gannet Safaris at Cape Kidnappers
Ride in a 4WD across coastal farmland to view the world’s largest mainland gannet colony. Panoramic views and close encounters with wildlife make this a Hawke’s Bay highlight.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY – Hawke’s Bay Half Day Wine Tour with Grape Escape
Sip your way through four to five boutique wineries with a knowledgeable local guide. A cheese platter by the lily pond adds the perfect finishing touch.

Today’s journey takes you inland to Rotorua via Taupō and its surrounding geothermal wonders. Discover volcanic craters, waterfalls, and the powerful landscapes of the central North Island.

Drive Napier to Rotorua via Taupō
Pause at Huka Falls, Lake Taupō and Craters of the Moon for scenic detours. The route weaves through ancient volcanic zones and steaming valleys.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY – National Kiwi Hatchery Experience
Visit New Zealand’s leading kiwi conservation centre and learn about efforts to protect our national icon. You may even get to see a fluffy kiwi chick!

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY – Te Pā Tū Māori Cultural Evening
Enjoy an immersive cultural experience with seasonal kai, haka, storytelling and Māori traditions under the forest canopy. It’s an unforgettable night of manaakitanga (hospitality) and celebration.

See the volcanic wonders of Rotorua from the sky this morning, then journey north to Auckland for an overnight stay in the city.

Mount Tarawera & Orakei Korako by Floatplane – Volcanic Air
Soar over colourful geothermal valleys before landing at the Hidden Valley for a guided geothermal walk. This rare aerial perspective reveals the powerful forces shaping New Zealand’s landscape.

Drive Rotorua to Auckland
Travel through the lush Waikato region with optional stops in Tirau or Cambridge. Arrive in the City of Sails ready to enjoy its bustling energy.

Head north to the subtropical beauty of the Bay of Islands, where golden beaches and calm harbours await. Take your time along the way with scenic stops and quirky towns to explore.

Drive Auckland to Paihia via Whangārei and Kawakawa
Stop to view Whangārei Falls or grab a bite at the waterfront before continuing north. Kawakawa’s colourful public toilets are a must-see roadside attraction!

Today you’ll explore the marine playground of the Bay of Islands, rich in wildlife and cultural history. A mix of ocean cruising and land-based exploration makes for an unforgettable day.

Hole in the Rock Cruise – Fullers GreatSights
Cruise through stunning waters to Cape Brett and the famous Hole in the Rock. You’ll also have time on Urupukapuka Island to swim, walk or relax by the beach.

Explore the Bay of Islands
Swim with dolphins, wander Russell’s historic streets, or take a boat to the top of the North Island at Cape Reinga. There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this subtropical paradise.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY – Waitangi Treaty Grounds Guided Tour & Cultural Performance
Walk in the footsteps of history at the site where modern New Zealand began. The museum, cultural performance and guided tour provide rich insight into Māori–Pākehā relations.

Your journey south winds through wild coastlines, ancient forests and rural heartland. Today offers a beautiful blend of nature, culture and history.

Drive Paihia to Auckland via Waipoua Forest & Hokianga
Walk among the giant kauri trees of Waipoua Forest and pause at Tane Mahuta, the Lord of the Forest. Stop at the Kauri Museum in Matakohe for stories of pioneering days before returning to Auckland.

Spend your last morning enjoying Auckland’s waterfront or doing some final souvenir shopping. Drop your rental car at the airport and prepare for your onward journey.

Farewell from Aotearoa New Zealand
Take home unforgettable memories of warm hospitality, epic landscapes and unique culture. Mā te wā – until we meet again.