9 Day Southern Explorer Self Drive

Arrive in Queenstown and take in the breathtaking alpine scenery that surrounds this world‑class adventure town. Today is about settling in, unwinding from travel, and enjoying your first taste of New Zealand’s South Island hospitality.

Private Transfer – Queenstown Airport to Accommodation
A private driver will be waiting to take you straight to your hotel after you touch down. This smooth arrival sets a relaxed tone for your trip ahead.

Suggested Activity – TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak BBQ Dinner
Cruise across Lake Wakatipu on a century‑old steamship and enjoy a gourmet lakeside barbecue.
This classic Kiwi evening combines farm demonstrations, delicious local produce and spectacular scenery.

Today you begin your road adventure by crossing the Crown Range, New Zealand’s highest sealed road, towards the wild West Coast. Along the way, alpine lakes, forest trails and rugged beaches offer plenty of scenic stops and photo opportunities.

Collect Rental Car
Your rental car is ready for collection this morning, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. A range of vehicle options ensures you can choose something right for your needs.

Suggested Stop – Blue Pools Walk, Makarora
Take a short walk through native forest to reach the crystal‑clear Blue Pools. It’s a refreshing nature break with serene river views.

Franz Josef Arrival
Follow the West Coast highway north through temperate rainforest and coastal scenery until you reach Franz Josef. This glacier town is surrounded by lush forest and soaring ice‑topped peaks.

Franz Josef is one of the most spectacular glacier landscapes in the world and offers both adventure and tranquillity. Today you’ve got plenty of options, whether you’re keen to explore ice valleys, wander forest trails or take in a scenic flight.

Suggested Activity – Franz Josef Nature Tour with Glacier Valley Eco Tours
Head into the heart of rainforest and glacier valleys with a knowledgeable local guide. This immersive walk combines geology, flora, fauna and native legends for a memorable experience.

Suggested Activity – Twin Glacier Scenic Helicopter Flight
Soar above both Fox and Franz Josef glaciers and land on the ice for incredible views. This aerial adventure offers a rare and breathtaking perspective on New Zealand’s glacial terrain.

Suggested Activity – Off-Road Quad Bike Adventure with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours
Ride through rainforest trails, riverbeds and glacier-fringed landscapes on an adrenaline-pumping quad tour. With expert guides and versatile machines, this is an adventure suited to various skill levels.

Today you travel north along the rugged West Coast before boarding the legendary TranzAlpine scenic train. The train journey across the Southern Alps is one of New Zealand’s most iconic rail experiences.

Suggested Stops – Hokitika and Ross
Browse local art, Pounamu (greenstone) jewellery, and gold mining history in these charming West Coast towns. They’re perfect for souvenir hunting and soaking in coastal culture.

Return Rental Car – Greymouth Train Station
Drop off your rental car at the Greymouth train station before boarding the TranzAlpine. This makes the transition from road to rail seamless and easy.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train – Greymouth to Christchurch
Sit back and enjoy one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys across mountains, rivers and deep valleys. The scenery changes dramatically from lush bush to snowy peaks as you travel eastward.

Shared Transfer – Christchurch Train Station to Accommodation
A driver will meet you in Christchurch and transfer you to your hotel in the city centre. This convenient service saves time and makes arrival stress-free.

Christchurch’s blend of history, innovation and green spaces makes it a fascinating city to explore. Today you can see iconic sites, enjoy urban parks and soak in the local culture at your own pace.

Suggested Activity – Christchurch Triple Pass (Tram, Punting & Gondola)
Experience three of Christchurch’s top attractions: a city tram ride, scenic punting on the Avon River and a gondola ride for panoramic views. This multi-activity pass is a great way to discover the city’s highlights in one day.

This morning you take the inland route south through the heart of the South Island. The landscapes shift from wide Canterbury plains to rugged mountains and glacier-fed lakes as you approach Mt Cook.

Suggested Stop – Geraldine & Fairlie
Pause in charming rural towns along the way to stretch your legs and sample local goods. They’re great for coffee breaks and browsing artisan products.

Suggested Stop – Lake Tekapo Lookout
Take in the iconic turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo with mountain backdrops. This lake is one of the South Island’s most photographed spots.

Suggested Activity – Glacier Explorers, Aoraki Mt Cook
Cruise amongst ancient icebergs and towering ice walls on New Zealand’s largest glacial lake. This rare water-based experience offers unbeatable views of the Tasman Glacier.

Leave the alpine peaks of Mt Cook behind as you head southwest toward Queenstown. The landscape opens up through Mackenzie Country and over Lindis Pass — one of the island’s most picturesque drive routes.

Suggested Stops – Twizel, Omarama & Lindis Pass
Enjoy scenic countryside, boutique cafés and high-country views on your drive. This stretch is full of hidden gems and epic photo stops.

Suggested Stop – Bendigo Goldfields & Kawarau Gorge
Explore gold mining ruins and dramatic canyon scenery as you near Queenstown. These are ideal detours for those who enjoy history and nature.

Today is yours to enjoy Queenstown’s iconic scenery, vibrant food scene and endless activities. Choose your own pace, whether that’s relaxing lakefront strolls or adrenaline-fuelled thrills.

Included: Lord of the Rings Queenstown Tour with Nomad Safaris
Explore legendary Middle-earth filming locations with expert guides off-road in spectacular landscapes. This tour blends movie magic with local history and breathtaking panoramas.

Suggested Activity – Wilderness Jet Experience with Dart River Safaris
Race through river canyons into Mt Aspiring National Park on a high-speed jet boat. The ride takes you deep into rugged scenery and feels like an adventure straight out of a storybook.

Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring a little more of Queenstown or grabbing one last scenic coffee by the lake. This is your final chance to savour the mountains, lake and adventure before heading home.

Return Rental Car – Queenstown Airport
Drop off your vehicle at the airport depot before check-in for departure. This smooth return process ensures a stress-free end to your tour.

Farewell from Aotearoa / New Zealand
Say goodbye to the South Island, taking with you memories of dramatic landscapes and unforgettable experiences. In Māori, mā te wā is not goodbye but “see you again soon.”