Overview

Travel along rugged and scenic coastline, visit towns seeped in history and enter the world of chocolate making. Also take time to explore the Alpine region of Queenstown, meet some of New Zealand's wildlife while in Dunedin and marvel at the Magnificent Milford Sounds on this 10 Day Southland Sojourn Tour.

Itineraries

All itineraries can be amended or combined with other itineraries. Please advise amendments when requesting a quote.

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Christchurch - Dunedin - Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown - Wanaka - Christchurch

Map of 10 Day Southern Sojourn Self Drive

Day 1, Arrive Christchurch

On arrival collect your Rental Car. The rest of the day is free to explore this "Garden City".

Overnight accommodation in Christchurch

Day 2, Christchurch to Dunedin

Travel Time: 5 hrs

Distance: 359 kms

Travel south via Timaru along the rugged and scenic coastal highway to historic Oamaru, home of the Little Blue Penguins. Be sure to check out the unique geological formations known as the Moeraki Boulders located 70km's north of Dunedin "the Edinburgh of the South". Dunedin is memorable for its historical architecture.

Two nights accommodation in Dunedin

Day 3, Dunedin

Today you have a full day to explore Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula, famous for it's eco tourism and wildlife and there are a variety of tours and cruises showing all the best of the Dunedin region. You could visit the Royal Albatross Centre or go on a guided tour of the Yellow Eyed Penguin reserve.

Take time to explore Larnach Castle and learn about its scandalous history. You might also want to visit Baldwin Street, the world's steepest residential address. End the day with a tour of the 125 year old Speights Brewery, finishing with a tasting of their range of world class beers.

Day 4, Dunedin to Te Anau

Travel Time: 3 hrs 55 mins

Distance: 290 kms

Visit historic Olveston House, then travel across the lush green farmlands of South Otago and Southland, at Balclutha cross the mighty Clutha River and on to Gore. From here you travel across river plains, and onto Te Anau located on the shores of beautiful Lake Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

This evening you could take an evening cruise across the lake to visit the incredible Te Anau limestone caves that shimmer with thousands of glow worms.

Two nights accommodation in Te Anau

Day 5, Day Trip to Milford Sound

Travel Time: 2 hrs 50 mins

Distance: 234 kms

You have the morning to enjoy in Te Anau and maybe take a drive down to view Lake Manapouri. This afternoon drive one of New Zealand's most scenic routes in Fiordland National Park to Milford Sound, an amazing 22km-long fiord dominated by Mitre Peak. Upon arrival at Milford Sound, check in for your scenic cruise on Milford Sound dominated by magnificent Mitre Peak. Tall waterfalls, vertical rock faces and seals are some of the things you'll remember.

Day 6, Te Anau to Queenstown

Travel Time: 2 hrs 15 mins

Distance: 171 kms

Trout fishing rivers and high country scenery are features of the drive to Queenstown. The small towns of Mossburn and Lumsden can be explored for unique shopping opportunities - a farm tour is another possibility. From Kingston, the rest of your journey clings scenically to the edge of Lake Wakatipu as you make your way to Queenstown.

A late morning arrival will give you time to experience one of the many activities available in this region such as a jet boat ride on either the Kawarau or Shotover Rivers. Alternatively enjoy the shopping and cafes. This evening, for a night to rememberyou could take a ride up the Skyline Gondola to a view that will take your breath away before sitting down a sumptuous buffet dinner.

Overnight in Queenstown

Day 7, Queenstown to Wanaka

Travel Time: 55 min

Distance: 69 kms

The shortest route to Wanaka is over the Crown Range Road. It's a challenging drive, but the views are amazing and you'll probably encounter friendly keas (mountain parrots). More conservative drivers can take the route that runs beside the Shotover River, Lake Dunstan and the Clutha River. The vineyards of the Gibbston area and bungy jumpers at the Kawarau River Bridge are interesting distractions along the way. This afternoon is at leisure in Wanaka.

Two nights accommodation in Wanaka

Day 8, Wanaka

Today is at leisure in Wanaka to enjoy the many activities of this stunning lakeside township, maybe a thrilling jet boat ride, scenic lake cruise and walk or relaxing walk along the lakefront. Visit Puzzling world or one of the many attractions at Wanaka Airport. Alternatively you could take a day walk into the impressive Mt Aspiring National Park, located on the southern shores of Lake Wanaka. The choice is yours.

Day 9, Wanaka to Christchurch

Travel Time: 5 hrs 50 mins

Distance: 460 kms

Cross the spectacular Mackenzie Country bounded by the Southern Alps to the glacial lakes and Twizel. It's a place to spy on the rarest wading bird in the world - the Black Stilt. At Lake Tekapo you could take a spectacular scenic flight by helicopter or fixed wing plane over Aoraki Mt Cook National Park; a magical world of permanent ice and snow, with New Zealand's highest mountains, and largest glaciers. The Church of the Good Shepherd and the sheepdog statue at Lake Tekapo are great photo opportunities. From Tekapo take the scenic route through Fairlie and Geraldine, before passing Mt Somers and Darfield and on to Christchurch.

Overnight in Christchurch

Day 10, Depart Christchurch

Today you are free to explore Christchurch before returing your rental car for your onward journey.

Additional Information

Pricing

Cost per person 2022-23

	Twin/Double
Standard 3-3.5 Star Accommodation	From AU$3,278* per person

* PLEASE NOTE *

Prices are estimates only, and are subject to availability and exchange rates when booking, seasonal or holiday price surcharges (such as Christmas/New Year and Easter); as well as special events that may be on. Please forward a request and we will be happy to forward a quote.

Car Rental

Car hire excess fees of up to NZ$3500 + GST applies. This will be imprinted on a credit card upon collecting the vehicle. Excess reduction options are available at an additional cost per day.
Airport/Ferry pick up fee applies in some locations. This must be paid direct in New Zealand.
Car parking fees may apply in some locations.

Payment

Deposit: $200 per person within 7 days of booking
Full Payment: 60 Days before travel
Airfares (if applicable): Paid in full no more than 6 days after booking

Cancellation Charges

Cancellation Fees up to 100% can apply after booking. Extra deposits or full payment may be requested to cover these charges prior to booking.

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Includes

9 nights accommodation

1 Night Christchurch
2 Nights Dunedin
2 Nights Te Anau
1 Night Queenstown
2 Nights Wanaka
1 Night Christchurch

9 days car hire (C/CDAR Toyota Corolla or Similar)

Entry to Olveston House, Dunedin

Milford Sound Cruise

Options

Travel Insurance

If you are going overseas, then travel insurance is a necessity.

Airfares

International flights can be included from Australia for all Australian residents.

Optional Extras

Dunedin

Larnach Castle and Grounds

Located on the Otago Peninsula, with its exciting, sometimes scandalous and tragic history, magnificent carved ceilings, New Zealand antiques and breathtaking views, Larnach Castle offers you a vision of the past and present. Today, the Castle is the home of the Barker family, who have spent over forty years lovingly restoring the building and recreating the beauty of the 14 hectares of gardens and grounds.

Natures Wonders Otago Peninsula

A one hour nature and wildlife tour that is not to be missed. See at extremely close quarters the very rare yellow eyed penguin, New Zealand Fur Seals and colonies of Cormorants and other unique bird life. Add to this, spectacular views of the rugged coastline and ocean as you drive across a working farm in a unique 8 wheel drive Argo.

Queenstown

Shotover Jet

Shotover Jet is New Zealand’s most popular and instantly identified visitor activity. Nothing you have experienced will have you prepared for the excitement of a Shotover Jet ride. From the moment the accelerator hits the floor your adrenaline hits the roof as you speed through the towering, rocky canyons of the famous Shotover River. Your driver skillfully whips the boat past rocky outcrops, and skims around crags and boulders, rock faces blur in your peripheral vision, white crystals of water spray with every turn, you grip the safety rail for reassurance and let out a whoop of excitement as the driver spins the boat around in its own length and you experience the 'trademark' Shotover Jet 360° spin.

Skyline Gondola with Buffet Dinner

An essential inclusion on your Queenstown schedule. Travel by gondola to Bob’s Peak high above the township and lake where the unsurpassed views are matched only by a range of activity options that may require a day rather than an hour or two. The views stretch from Coronet Peak to the left, over the town and Remarkable Mountains, along Lake Wakatipu’s southern arm toward Kingston and to your right, across the lake, Cecil and Walter Peaks and the Earnslaw plying its waters as well.

Te Anau

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Your Te Anau Glowworm Cave adventure begins with a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau to the western side of the lake. Upon arrival at Cavern House our friendly guides invite you to accompany them underground in small groups. As you explore by path and small boat, your senses will be overwhelmed. Observe how the rushing water sculpts the rock formations, before gliding through silent darkness to the glowworm grotto. The delicate incandescence of thousands of tiny glowworms is a magical site.

Wanaka

Mou Waho Cruise

Cruising up the peninsula past Mou Tapu and Fisherman’s Cove to Mou Waho. Leave the boat and take a guided walk to the top of the island. Take time to enjoy light refreshments on a rock overlooking the Arethusa Pool, check out the plant life, find a Weta and take in the spectacular views. Learn a little history about the island and surrounding area from your guide.

Highlights

Olveston Historic Home

Olveston was built as the home of the Theomin family and was gifted to the City of Dunedin upon the death of Miss Dorothy Theomin in 1966. Olveston is a time capsule as little changed inside the house since it was occupied by the family from 1906 to 1966. Discover an authentic & original historic house that depicts the way of life of a wealthy family in the early part of the 20th century.

Milford Sound Cruise

Enjoy Milford Sound's awe-inspiring scenery from the comfort of modern, spacious vessels. You will see the geological drama of sheer cliffs, massive waterfalls, glaciers & rainforest. Keep a look out for wildlife like seals basking on the rocks or dolphins. Each of the Milford Sound Cruise vessels have purpose-built observation lounges & large decks, so you will get some great viewing opportunities.

Self Drive Holidays 10 Day Southern Sojourn Self Drive

Overview

Itineraries

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Day 10