16 Day South Island Discoverer Self Drive

Your South Island Discoverer tour begins in Wellington, New Zealand’s windswept harbour city full of culture and culinary delight. After your private transfer from the airport, take some time to unwind and explore the compact city by foot as you settle in.

Suggested Activity – Zealandia By Night Wildlife Sanctuary Tour
Step into the calm of the forest after dark and encounter rare native birds, reptiles and insects in their natural habitat. This twilight tour brings the conservation success of Zealandia to life with expert guides and unforgettable wildlife sightings.

Today you’re transferred to the ferry terminal to cross the Cook Strait in style, arriving in picturesque Picton. From here you’ll collect your rental car and follow Marlborough’s lush valleys south to Blenheim, the heart of New Zealand’s largest wine region.

Interislander Ferry Wellington to Picton
Sit back as the ferry carries you across one of the world’s most scenic straits, with views of native wildlife, coastal hills and the Kaikōura mountain range unfolding before you. This three‑hour cruise through the Marlborough Sounds is a highlight in its own right.

Collect Rental Car
Your rental car awaits in Picton, setting you up for a self‑driven exploration ahead. Choose from versatile vehicles to match your style and comfort needs across the South Island’s diverse terrains.

Follow the coast south toward Kaikōura, where the Pacific meets rugged ranges and native wildlife thrives. This coastal drive offers multiple lookout points and opportunities to spot fur seals and seabirds along the way.

Suggested Activity – Ocean’s Cabin with Whale Watch Kaikōura
Experience an unforgettable encounter with giant sperm whales from the water‑based Ocean’s Cabin platform. Dolphins, seals and albatross are regularly spotted during this up‑close marine adventure.

Today’s drive takes you through the scenic Waipara Valley before reaching Christchurch, a city famed for its gardens and creative revitalisation. Along the way you may choose to detour to Hanmer Springs to soak in thermal pools if time allows.

Explore Christchurch’s evolving cityscape, which combines heritage charm with contemporary renewal. The compact city centre and surrounding green spaces are perfect for a day of exploration at your own pace.

Suggested Activity – Christchurch Gondola
Ascend the gondola through native forest to spectacular views of the city, harbour and distant Southern Alps. At the summit enjoy scenic walks and a café overlooking the vast plains below.

Journey inland across the wide Canterbury Plains to alpine heights and glacier‑fed lakes. Expect dramatic scenery as snow‑topped mountains and turquoise waters come into view.

Suggested Activity – Glacier Explorers
Board a purpose‑built boat and cruise among towering icebergs on Tasman Glacier Lake, one of the few accessible glacier‑to‑lake environments in the world. This rare glacial experience showcases the fragile beauty of New Zealand’s largest glacier.

Today you’ll travel southeast through alpine and rural landscapes en route to Dunedin, a city rich in heritage and Scottish flair. Along the way, explore Oamaru’s historic precinct or view the Moeraki Boulders at the beach.

Discover Dunedin’s historic charm before heading out to the wild Otago Peninsula, home to abundant wildlife and dramatic coastal views. This region is a haven for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

Suggested Activity – Wildlife Peninsula Encounter Tour and Cruise with Monarch
Join a guided small‑group tour across rugged peninsula landscapes and shoreline waters, watching for sea lions, albatross and other rare seabirds. It’s an intimate wildlife experience that showcases natural beauty up close.

Suggested Activity – Larnach Castle and Gardens
Visit New Zealand’s only castle set high on the peninsula with sweeping city and harbour views. Explore its significant gardens and historic interiors before relaxing in the café.

Today’s route winds through Southland’s rolling countryside and coastal Catlins region before reaching Te Anau on Lake Te Anau’s edge. Expect scenic views, rugged coastlines and hidden gems along this longer stretch.

The Milford Road is one of New Zealand’s most iconic drives, with countless photo‑worthy landscapes. At Milford Sound, towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls create a dramatic natural theatre.

Suggested Activity – Milford Sound Cruise with Real NZ
Enjoy a leisurely cruise through the heart of Milford Sound with lunch included aboard a comfortable vessel. You’ll sail beneath sheer rock faces, past rainforests and under cascading waterfalls for a true wilderness experience.

Today’s scenic drive first crosses tussock lands and farmland before rising to the breathtaking Devil’s Staircase. The route opens onto Queenstown’s stunning lake and mountain backdrop, welcoming you to the adventure capital of the South Island.

Suggested Activity – TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner
Board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw for a tranquil cruise on Lake Wakatipu followed by a gourmet high country BBQ at Walter Peak. After dinner, enjoy a classic farm dog demonstration before returning under the evening sky.

Spend today soaking up Queenstown’s mix of adventure, scenery and relaxation. From lakeside strolls to optional thrill experiences and wineries, there’s something for every traveller.

Suggested Activity – Shotover Jet Canyon Jet Boat Ride
Feel your heart race on the Shotover Jet as it carves through narrow canyons at high speed. This quintessential Queenstown experience blends natural spectacle with unforgettable excitement.

Suggested Activity – Appellation Boutique Wine Tour
Enjoy a curated wine tasting through three of Central Otago’s premier sub‑regions, culminating with a platter‑style lunch. It’s a delightful way to pair local produce with world‑class cool‑climate wines.

Cross the Crown Range, New Zealand’s highest sealed road, before descending into alpine‑framed lakes and rainforest beyond Haast. This breathtaking drive brings you to Franz Josef township, a gateway to remarkable glacial landscapes.

Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers are among the most unique on Earth, descending from alpine heights into rainforest. Today you can explore these icy giants from the ground or the air.

Suggested Activity – Twin Glacier Scenic Helicopter Flight with The Helicopter Line
Take a scenic helicopter flight that flies over both Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers with an alpine snow landing experience. This aerial perspective brings breathtaking ice formations into sharp focus.

Follow the West Coast north through jade‑rich Hokitika and historic Greymouth before dropping off your rental car. Then board the legendary TranzAlpine Scenic Train for a journey through alpine rivers, forested valleys and Arthur’s Pass.

Suggested Upgrade – TranzAlpine Scenic Plus Add‑on
Upgrade your rail experience with the Scenic Plus service featuring priority boarding, panoramic windows and regional cuisine with paired drinks. This allows you to savour the Southern Alps landscape in comfort and style.

Your coastal discovery comes to an end today with a private transfer to Christchurch Airport. Take a last look at the city that bridges South Island’s scenic splendour before departing.

Farewell from Aotearoa / New Zealand
As we say in te reo Māori, mā te wā — not goodbye, but until we meet again. You’ll leave with memories of dramatic coastlines, majestic mountains, and unique wildlife.