12 Day Southern Circuit Self Drive

A warm welcome awaits in Christchurch as a private driver meets you at the airport for a smooth transfer to your accommodation.

Christchurch has reinvented itself as a vibrant city with a creative edge. Ride the historic tram through the city centre, stroll through Hagley Park, or visit the innovative Transitional Cathedral, uniquely built from cardboard.

Suggested: Discover Christchurch Afternoon Tour – Explore the city's post-quake rebuild, gardens, historic sites, and culture with a relaxed half-day guided tour.

Pick up your rental car and head inland past farmlands and mountain valleys. Highlights include a stop at Lake Tekapo, famous for its turquoise water and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd. From Lake Pukaki, you’ll enjoy incredible views of Aoraki / Mt Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain.

Suggested:

Glacier Explorers Tour – Board a boat and cruise past massive icebergs on the Tasman Glacier lake.

Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre – Discover the mountaineering legend’s story and the local alpine environment.

Travel through the Mackenzie Basin, past film locations from The Lord of the Rings, before heading into the Waitaki Valley. Stop at historic Oamaru, known for its limestone architecture and quirky Steampunk vibe. Detour to the Moeraki Boulders, then continue south to the Scottish-influenced city of Dunedin.

Explore the vibrant heritage of Dunedin, known for its gothic architecture, student culture, and street art. Head to the Otago Peninsula for dramatic coastal views and unique wildlife encounters.

Suggested:

Wildlife Peninsula Encounter – See albatross, sea lions, penguins and seals on a scenic small-group tour.

Larnach Castle – Wander New Zealand’s only castle and its internationally recognised gardens.

Head south through the Catlins, a wild coastal region known for waterfalls, cliffs, and marine wildlife. Detour to Nugget Point for stunning lighthouse views, then pass through Invercargill and on to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland.

Suggested: Te Anau Glowworm Caves – Cruise across Lake Te Anau and explore a fascinating cave system lit by thousands of glowworms.

Drive the breathtaking Milford Road, stopping at alpine lakes and valleys before arriving at Milford Sound. Take a cruise into the fiord and soak up waterfalls, cliffs and mountain scenery.

Included: Milford Sound Cruise with RealNZ – Includes lunch onboard and expert commentary on the fiord’s history and wildlife.

Suggested: Boutique Fiordland Jewel Cruise – A premium experience with gourmet lunch, small group comfort, and incredible views.

Travel via Mossburn and alongside Lake Wakatipu to arrive in Queenstown, set against the spectacular backdrop of the Remarkables mountain range.

Suggested: TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Walter Peak BBQ Dinner – Cruise by vintage steamship to a lakeside farm for a gourmet meal and farm demo.

Take the day at your own pace — Queenstown is brimming with both thrill and chill. Go for a lakeside walk, visit boutique wineries, or get adventurous with jet boating, ziplining or skydiving.

Suggested:

Shotover Jet Boat Ride – High-speed action through canyon rapids.

Appellation Boutique Wine Tour – Visit boutique wineries and enjoy local flavours in scenic surrounds.

Drive over the Crown Range to Wānaka, then past Lake Hawea and into the lush Haast Pass rainforest. Stop at Blue Pools Walk, then continue north through Fox Glacier to Franz Josef.

Spend the day exploring this glacier town nestled in ancient rainforest. Walk scenic trails, soak in hot pools, or fly high for panoramic alpine views.

Suggested:

Franz Josef Glacier Helihike – Land on the ice and explore stunning glacier terrain.

Okarito Lagoon Kayaking – Paddle through serene wetlands with views of the Southern Alps.

Drive the wild West Coast to Greymouth, passing greenstone shops in Hokitika and gold mining relics in Ross. Drop off your car and board the world-famous TranzAlpine Train, crossing the Southern Alps back to Christchurch.

Suggested: TranzAlpine Scenic Plus Upgrade – Enhance your rail journey with inclusive drinks, fine local cuisine, and lounge-style comfort.

A private transfer will take you to Christchurch International Airport for your departure.

Mā te wā — see you again soon!