8 Day Queenstown, Coastlines & Capital Self Drive

Queenstown is New Zealand’s famed adventure hub, where alpine beauty meets thrilling experiences at every turn. Today is all about settling in, taking in postcard views and getting your first taste of the region’s renowned landscapes. Your private driver will meet you on arrival and take you straight to your Queenstown hotel in comfort and style.

Skyline Queenstown – Gondola, Buffet Dinner & 3 Luge Rides
Ascend by gondola for sweeping vistas of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu, savour a buffet dinner with sensational views, and enjoy three fun‑filled luge runs before dining.

Today blends high‑octane thrills with boutique flavours, showcasing both the wild and refined sides of Central Otago. Prepare for a dramatic morning on the river followed by a leisurely wine‑tasting afternoon.

Shotover Canyon Jet Boat Ride
Hold tight for a high‑speed ride through narrow canyon walls on the iconic Shotover Jet, complete with thrilling 360‑degree spins.
This legendary experience will leave you buzzing with adrenaline and big‑smile memories.

Appellation Boutique Wine Tour
Explore three scenic wine regions sampling cool‑climate Central Otago wines and enjoy a gourmet platter lunch at a vineyard restaurant.

Today begins your classic South Island road journey through dramatic gorges, high passes and sweeping tussock plains. Aoraki‑Mt Cook village awaits with glacier views and stellar skies. Pick up your intermediate‑sized rental vehicle, or upgrade to suit your travel style for the days ahead.

Drive via Kawarau Gorge, Gibbston and the Lindis Pass, descending into the Mackenzie Basin before reaching Aoraki‑Mt Cook village.

Glacier Explorers Tour
Set out on Lake Tasman to view towering icebergs and the terminal face of New Zealand’s longest glacier from a purpose‑built vessel.

Big Sky Stargazing
Gaze at the unpolluted southern night sky with expert guides using telescopes and immersive visuals.

Today’s drive takes you past stunning glacial lakes and across the wide Canterbury Plains to Christchurch, where urban charm meets creative energy. There’s plenty to explore once you arrive in the Garden City.

Pause to admire the vibrant turquoise waters and majestic mountain reflections at two of the South Island’s most photogenic lakes. Ōtautahi‑Christchurch blends English heritage with modern reinvention, offering gardens, culture and riverside charm.

Kai Safari with Amiki Cultural Food Tours
Explore Christchurch’s food scene on foot with a knowledgeable guide, sampling seasonal local dishes.

The scenic journey north brings coastal splendour and marine wildlife encounters today. Kaikōura’s dramatic seascapes and ocean experiences await. Travel through Waipara wine country with an optional soak in Hanmer Springs before descending onto the spectacular Kaikōura coastline. Known for abundant wildlife and rugged ocean scenery, Kaikōura is a haven for nature lovers.

Ocean Safari Whale Watching Flight with South Pacific Helicopters
Take to the skies on a 45‑minute scenic flight to view whales, dolphins and seals from above.

Follow the Pacific shoreline north before crossing Cook Strait to Wellington. Today blends coastal drives with one of the world’s most scenic ferry experiences. Follow the ocean, view fur seals at Ohau Point and enjoy Marlborough’s vineyards before reaching Picton. Hand back your car and prepare for the next chapter of your journey across Cook Strait.

Interislander Ferry – Picton to Wellington (Premium Plus Lounge Access)
Cruise through the picturesque Marlborough Sounds with exclusive lounge access for comfort and refreshments. Arrive in Wellington and your chauffeur will be waiting to transfer you to your Wellington hotel.

Today is a delicious deep dive into Martinborough’s boutique wineries and gourmet scene. Savour locally crafted wines and stories behind them.

Martinborough Foodie Delights Private Tour with Kaewa Tours
Spend six hours with a private guide sampling top wines and enjoying a gourmet lunch among the vines.

Today brings your New Zealand adventure to a close with a seamless departure from Wellington. Carry home unforgettable memories of landscapes, flavours and experiences. A chauffeur will collect you for your transfer to Wellington Airport.

Say “mā te wā” as you take your lasting memories home.