8 Day Southern Highlights Self Drive

Arrive in Queenstown and begin your South Island adventure in one of New Zealand’s most picturesque towns. Known for its alpine views and adrenaline activities, Queenstown offers both adventure and relaxation from the moment you arrive.

On arrival you’ll be met by your private driver and taken straight to your accommodation with ease and comfort.

Welcome to Queenstown, a vibrant alpine lakeside town offering stunning views and unforgettable experiences. From scenic strolls along Lake Wakatipu to world‑class food and adventure options, this town sets the tone for an epic journey.

Suggested Activity — Gondola and 3 Luge Rides with Skyline Queenstown
Take a gondola ride up Ben Lomond Scenic Reserve for sweeping outlooks over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. The luge rides are exhilarating and perfect for all ages, combining fun with spectacular surroundings.

Hit the road with your rental car and enjoy a scenic drive over Crown Range into Wānaka and beyond. Along the way you’ll pass lakes, alpine views, and plenty of spots to pause and take in the landscape.

Cross from the alpine interior down to the lush West Coast rainforest, arriving in the Franz Josef township nestled beside its famous glacier.

Suggested Activity — Twin Glacier Scenic Helicopter Flight
Soar over both Fox and Franz Josef glaciers for a breathtaking aerial perspective of these ancient ice formations. Landing amid this dramatic frozen landscape reveals perspectives impossible to capture from the ground.

Today you’ll continue your journey north along the rugged West Coast, stopping at small towns and incredible natural sites en route to Greymouth. This region blends rainforest, coastline and wildlife experiences unlike anywhere else.

Hand back your rental car and board the world‑famous TranzAlpine scenic train for an unforgettable eastward journey across the Southern Alps.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train — Greymouth to Christchurch
Experience one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys, winding through beech forest, river valleys and mountain peaks before descending onto the Canterbury Plains. The comforts of your carriage make for a relaxing yet dramatic way to travel across the island.

Collect your rental car once more and head inland through the expansive Canterbury Plains toward Aoraki‑Mt Cook. The drive showcases classic South Island landscapes — from rolling farmland to majestic turquoise lakes.

Follow the route along Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki with the Southern Alps rising to meet you as you approach Aoraki‑Mt Cook Village.

Suggested Activity — Glacier Explorers
Get up close to 500‑year‑old icebergs as you cruise on the terminal lake at Aoraki‑Mt Cook National Park. This unique tour offers rare views of glacial ice cliffs and floating bergs from a safe and specially designed boat.

Leaving the mountains behind, your drive today travels through the Waitaki Valley’s stunning rural terrain. Stop along the way to enjoy local wineries, historic towns and incredible coastal scenery before reaching Dunedin.

Arrive in Dunedin, a city rich in heritage and known for its Scottish influences and Victorian architecture.

Dinner — Camp Estate, Larnach Castle
Dine in grand surroundings where each course highlights local produce paired with excellent regional wines. The historic setting adds a memorable atmosphere to your evening meal.

Suggested Activity — Monarch Wildlife Cruise from Wellers Rock
Experience abundant wildlife on the Otago Peninsula including albatross, seabirds, sea lions and possibly dolphins or whales. This cruise blends spectacular coastal scenery with unforgettable animal encounters.

Today’s drive takes you through Southland’s classic landscapes and the wild beauty of The Catlins coastline. With rugged cliffs, sweeping beaches and verdant farmland, today blends hidden natural gems with classic Kiwi scenery.

Continue through Invercargill and Colac Bay before arriving in Te Anau — the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

Suggested Activity — Te Anau Glowworm Caves with RealNZ
Cross Lake Te Anau before exploring limestone paths lit by thousands of glowworms deep in these ancient caves. The blend of nature and wonder makes this an unforgettable experience.

This morning’s drive brings you back across expansive tussock lands toward Queenstown with plenty of great viewpoints along the way. From mossburn’s rural charm to the stunning Devil’s Staircase viewpoint, today’s journey is scenic right through to arrival.

In Queenstown you can unwind and enjoy a signature lakeside experience.

Suggested Activity — TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak BBQ Dinner
Relax on a historic steamship cruise then enjoy a gourmet BBQ feast at Walter Peak Farm. With farm demonstrations and delicious local food, this evening combines flavour with quintessential Kiwi culture.

Spend your final morning exploring more of Queenstown at your own pace. Take in last‑minute views, shopping or café stops before heading to the airport.

Return your rental car at Queenstown Airport and prepare for your onward journey. Say farewell to Aotearoa / New Zealand with memories of breathtaking scenery and unforgettable moments.