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South Island

Start: Christchurch
Finish: Queenstown
Location: Christchurch
Duration: 18 days
Distance: 2343 kms

Explore the Wild Beauty of the South Island

This 18-day South Island itinerary is a nature lover’s dream, taking you deep into New Zealand’s most breathtaking national parks and scenic regions. You'll discover diverse landscapes from lush rainforests and golden beaches to glacial valleys and alpine peaks. With guided adventures, local wildlife encounters, and iconic experiences like Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, it’s the ultimate wilderness journey.

The self drive format gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, with comfortable accommodations and handpicked activities enhancing each destination. Highlights include kayaking in Abel Tasman, a heli-hike on Franz Josef Glacier, and stargazing beneath Aoraki / Mt Cook’s clear skies. Along the way, you'll meet unique wildlife, soak in dramatic vistas, and savour unforgettable moments in the heart of Aotearoa.

Note: All self-drive packages are fully customisable and can be tailored or combined to match your travel plans. Just let us know your preferences in the enquiry form!

Inclusions

  • 17 nights comfortable motel-style accommodation (upgrades available)
  • Intermediate rental car with unlimited km and fully inclusive rental car insurance (excess may apply; upgrades available)
  • Afterhours emergency support while touring
  • Electronic travel guide and in-country support app
  • Cultural learning experience with The Visitor Promise
  • Included activity: Electronic Travel Guide and In-Country Support App
  • Private Transfer Christchurch International Airport to Christchurch Accommodation
  • Glacier Explorers
  • Milford Sound Coach, Cruise and Walks
  • Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise from Manapouri with RealNZ
  • Ocean's Cabin with Whale Watch Kaikōura
  • Beaches, Bays and Seals Guided Sea Kayaking Trip with Wilsons - Lunch Included
  • Franz Josef Glacier Helihike with Franz Josef Glacier Guides
  • 2 lunches

Tour code: 186

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