22 Day New Zealand Discovery Self Drive

Arrive at Auckland International Airport and collect your rental car before heading into the city. The rest of the day is yours to explore—stroll along the Viaduct Harbour, browse the shops on Queen Street, or relax at one of the city's many cafés and restaurants.

Stay 1 night in Auckland

Head south to Rotorua, a city rich in Māori culture and geothermal wonders. Along the way, consider stopping at one of several unique attractions. Explore the magical Waitomo Glowworm Caves, where thousands of tiny lights illuminate the grotto, or visit Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari, a predator-free ecological reserve home to rare native wildlife. Alternatively, take a stroll through Hamilton Gardens, where themed gardens transport you through history, from ancient Egypt to surrealist landscapes.

For movie fans, a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set offers a behind-the-scenes look at The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films, complete with Hobbit Holes and The Green Dragon Inn.

Stay 3 nights Rotorua

Spend the day exploring Waimangu Volcanic Valley, the world’s youngest geothermal valley and the final resting place of the Pink and White Terraces, lost after the 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera. Wander the scenic trails at your own pace, taking in volcanic craters, the world’s largest hot springs, and the striking blue Inferno Crater. Afterwards, enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Rotomahana, where geothermal activity meets untouched wilderness.

In the evening, immerse yourself in Māori culture at the award-winning Te Pā Tū. Experience traditional storytelling, captivating performances, and a hāngī feast, where food is slow-cooked underground using age-old techniques in an authentic village setting.

Spend the day exploring Rotorua at your own pace, with plenty of activities to choose from. Unwind in a private cedar hot tub at Secret Spot Hot Tubs, set in the tranquil Whakarewarewa Forest, or take in panoramic views on a guided walk around Mt Tarawera’s summit, learning about the dramatic 1886 eruption. For an adrenaline rush, soar through the treetops on a Rotorua Canopy Tour, featuring zip lines and swing bridges, or relax at the Polynesian Spa, where mineral-rich pools overlook Lake Rotorua.

In the evening, join a unique nocturnal glowworm adventure. Venture into Rotorua’s untouched forest with a guide, where hidden waterfalls and caves come to life under the soft glow of thousands of tiny glowworms. This magical experience offers a peaceful and unforgettable way to end your day in Rotorua.

Travel across the central plateau via Lake Taupō, stopping along the way for an adventure or a relaxing scenic experience. Choose between an exhilarating jet boat ride to the base of Huka Falls, where 270,000 litres of water cascade every second, or a leisurely 90-minute scenic cruise on Lake Taupō to see the famous Māori rock carvings, complete with complimentary refreshments.

After your stop in Taupō, continue your journey to the Hawke’s Bay or Nelson, where more stunning landscapes and local experiences await.

Stay 2 nights Napier

Explore Napier, New Zealand’s Art Deco capital, and learn about its remarkable transformation after the 1931 earthquake. Join a one-hour guided walking tour to hear stories of the city’s rebuild and admire its world-renowned Art Deco architecture.

For a more immersive experience, take a 90-minute vintage car tour, chauffeured by a guide in 1930s attire. Ride through Napier’s Art Deco Quarter, a historic residential suburb, and Port Ahuriri, soaking in the charm of this beautifully restored city.

Spend the morning exploring Napier before heading south through Hastings and the scenic Hawke’s Bay countryside. Stop in Martinborough, a charming wine village known for its exceptional Pinot Noir, where you can enjoy a tasting before continuing your journey.

Arrive in Wellington, a vibrant and compact city set between the harbour and rolling hills. The walkable downtown area is packed with cafés, restaurants, museums, theatres, and boutique shops, offering plenty to explore at your own pace.

Stay 2 nights Wellington.

Wellington, recently named the ‘coolest little capital in the world’ by Lonely Planet, is a vibrant city set between a sparkling harbour and rolling green hills. Known for its arts, culture, and natural beauty, the city offers plenty to explore. Visit Te Papa National Museum, take a ride on the famous cable car, or walk along the scenic waterfront. For film lovers, Weta Workshop provides a behind-the-scenes look at props and costumes from The Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, and other blockbuster films.

Nature enthusiasts can visit Zealandia, a predator-free sanctuary where rare native birds thrive, or take a day trip to Kapiti Island, one of New Zealand’s top conservation sites. Lord of the Rings fans can embark on a full-day tour of filming locations, including a stop at Weta Workshop. With a mix of adventure, history, and stunning landscapes, Wellington offers something for everyone.

Drop off your car in Picton and relax on the Interislander Ferry as you cruise across Cook Strait and through the stunning Marlborough Sounds (3 hrs 10 mins). Enjoy the scenic journey before arriving in Picton, the gateway to the region’s marine and forest attractions.

On arrival, pick up your rental vehicle and follow the coastal road to Kaikōura, a town famous for its marine life. Here, you can join an optional whale-watching tour or take the opportunity to swim with dolphins in their natural habitat.

Stay 1 night in Kaikoura.

This morning, drive south along the coast, crossing the Canterbury Plains past Christchurch before arriving at the stunning Lake Tekapo.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Visit the Earth & Sky Observatory for breathtaking stargazing, take a scenic flight over Mt Cook, or explore local landmarks such as the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Collie Dog Memorial.

Stay 1 night in Tekapo.

Depart Lake Tekapo this morning and follow the shores of Lake Pukaki to Mt Cook. Take a short walk or join an activity at the Hermitage Hotel, such as a boat cruise on Tasman Lake, a scenic flight over the glaciers, or a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre.

Continue south through Omarama to Oamaru, home to the charming Little Blue Penguins. Along the way to Dunedin, stop to see the fascinating Moeraki Boulders, a collection of large, spherical rocks scattered along the beach. Dunedin, known as the "Edinburgh of the South," is famous for its historic architecture and Scottish heritage.

Stay 2 nights in Dunedin

Spend the day exploring Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula, a region renowned for its wildlife and eco-tourism. Visit the Royal Albatross Centre, take an off-road Argo adventure at Nature’s Wonders, or join a guided tour of the Yellow-Eyed Penguin Reserve for a closer look at these rare birds.

Discover Dunedin’s rich history with a visit to Larnach Castle, famous for its scandalous past, or take a stroll up Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest residential road. End the day with a tour of the 125-year-old Speight’s Brewery, where you can sample a selection of their world-class beers.

Travel through the lush farmland of South Otago and Southland, crossing the mighty Clutha River at Balclutha before continuing to Gore. From here, follow scenic river plains to Te Anau, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Te Anau and the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

In the evening, take a magical cruise across the lake to explore limestone caves illuminated by thousands of glowworms, a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

Stay 2 nights in Te Anau.

Spend the morning in Te Anau, or take a short drive to admire the stunning Lake Manapouri. Later, set off on one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives to Milford Sound.

On arrival, board a leisurely cruise through the full length of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea. Take in breathtaking views of waterfalls, rainforest, and towering peaks, with opportunities to spot local wildlife. Enjoy informative commentary along the way, complimentary tea and coffee, and a selection of lunch options available for purchase.

Drive to Queenstown, passing through the charming towns of Mossburn and Lumsden, where you can browse unique shops or even join a local farm tour.

From Kingston, enjoy a stunning lakeside drive as the road winds along the edge of Lake Wakatipu, offering spectacular views all the way to Queenstown.

Stay 3 nights in Queenstown.

Today is at your leisure to explore the adventure capital of New Zealand. It's the place to source almost any kind of adventure, including bungy, taking a Shotover Jet ride, horse trekking, rafting and river surfing. It's also a destination for luxury experiences - gourmet food and wine, spa treatments and leisurely games of golf. Nearby is the former gold mining town of Arrowtown is a living, historic holiday destination, nestled beside the Arrow River.

Enjoy a second day at leisure to explore the Queenstown region. If you are travelling between late June & early October, be sure to check out the ski fields within the region - there are 5 ski fields within an hour of Queenstown.

Tonight, Go back in time on this return trip to Walter Peak High Country Farm aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship. On disembarking, you'll be escorted through the beautiful lakeside gardens to the charming Colonel's Homestead. Here you'll enjoy a Gourmet BBQ dinner which your chef will prepare in front of you. The seasonal menu includes an expansive array of local produce, including succulent meats cooked on the outdoor rotisserie and a selection of delicious vegetables and salads.

The quickest route to Wanaka is via the Crown Range Road, a steep and winding drive with spectacular views—and possibly a few curious keas along the way. For a more relaxed drive, take the scenic route along the Shotover River, Lake Dunstan, and the Clutha River. Along the way, stop at Gibbston’s vineyards for a tasting or watch bungy jumpers at the Kawarau Bridge.

Leaving Wanaka, admire the stunning views of Lake Hawea and the northern end of Lake Wanaka. Don’t miss the quirky bra fence, a local legend. In Makarora, take a break before tackling the dramatic Haast Pass, where winding roads lead to the wild West Coast. At Lake Paringa, stop for a fresh salmon meal at the local salmon farm.

Stay 2 nights Franz Josef

Enjoy a free day to explore the stunning Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers, remnants of the last ice age. These mighty rivers of ice carve their way through rugged valleys, making them some of the most accessible glaciers in the world at this latitude.

This morning, drive north through Hokitika, known for its beautiful greenstone jewellery. Continue to Greymouth, where you’ll drop off your rental car and board the world-famous TranzAlpine train.

Sit back and enjoy the scenic journey through Arthur’s Pass, the highest of the three Southern Alps crossings, as you make your way back to Christchurch.

Stay 2 nights Christchurch

Enjoy a day at leisure in Christchurch. Explore the Riverside Market in the city or the shopping and café precinct on Riccarton Road. Take a relaxing punt ride along the Avon River, visit Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, or experience the International Antarctic Centre.

For a scenic day trip, drive to the charming French village of Akaroa and join a Black Cat Wildlife Cruise or an Akaroa Swim with the Dolphins experience.

Today you are free to explore Christchurch before being transferred to Christchurch Airport for your flight home.