| Duration: | 19 Day(s) - 18 Night(s) |
| Tour Category: | Classic Tours |
Kia ora - welcome to New Zealand
Auckland to Christchurch 19-day Wonders of New Zealand
Nationwide Self Drive
This 19-day tour starts in Auckland and finishes in Christchurch
Personal airport meet and greet, and private transfer to your accommodation
All-inclusive tour package prepared by New Zealand-based specialists - so you sit back and relax
An exciting itinerary will be customized to suit you - let us help plan and perfect your dream vacation
We offer Self-drive trips (rental car) we arrange all your accommodations, activities, and attractions (you select) we book your rental car (fun, freedom, independence, flexibility) you set the pace each day, or perhaps you prefer a Private driver trip (fully guided) or, Escorted coach tours (daily commentary).
Explore Auckland, the City of Sails before venturing south to the stunning Waitomo and the world-famous Glow worm caves. From here travel to beautiful Lake Rotorua enjoying adventure activities and our unique Maori culture (Tamaki or Mitai families) Leaving the North island you will pass the capital of New Zealand, Wellington, renowned for its great craft beer, wind, and the "Beehive style" government building.
Once across the Cook Strai,t you'll pass the rich wildlife of the Kaikoura coastline, giant Sperm whales, playful Dusky dolphins, fur seals, and impressive Albatross, next to the Canterbury Plains, Southern lakes, and glacial areas.
There are plenty of adventures on your journey and highlights might include a helicopter ride over the glacier, the world-acclaimed TranzAlpine train (rated top 10 in the world!), or even a swim with the world's smallest wild Hectors dolphins at Akaroa.
Sample itinerary, please note - we will add, and include your accommodations once we have discussed with you your preferences -
Quick Summary
Auckland to Christchurch 19-day Wonders of New Zealand
Day 1: Welcome to Auckland City
Accommodation: CityLife Auckland
Day 2: City of Sails
Explore the 'City of Sails' or take a ferry to Waiheke Island for the day
Accommodation: CityLife Auckland
Day 3: Waikato
Drive south through the rich fertile farmland of the Waikato to the limestone caves of Waitomo.
Accommodation: Palm Court Motel Otorohanga
Day 4: Lake Taupo
Cross-country to Lake Taupo, where the thrilling Huka Jet Boat ride is always a fun break from driving.
Accommodation: Bella Vista Rotorua
Day 5: Rotorua
Your day in Rotorua could be spent discovering Maori culture or thrilling adventure rides.
Accommodation: Bella Vista Rotorua
Day 6: Rangitikei
Travel to rural Rangitikei for a night at the river retreat of Tarata
Accommodation: Tarata Fishaway
Day 7: Kapiti Coast - Wellington
Continue south through Manawatu before you reach the Kapiti Coast which guides you to Wellington.
Accommodation: CityLife Wellington
Day 8: Wellington City
Uncover the charms of Wellington City, including the quirky cafes and fascinating museums.
Accommodation: CityLife Wellington
Day 9: Cook Strait
Today you'll cross the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry. Approaching Picton you'll cruise through the spectacular Marlborough Sounds.
Accommodation: Bella Vista Blenheim
Day 10: Kaikoura
Drive to the seaside town of Kaikoura today.
Accommodation: The White Morph, Kaikoura
Day 11: Whale Watching
Take a whale-watching cruise this morning, then head south to the ever-changing city of Christchurch.
Accommodation: Quest Cathedral Junction
Day 12: Bank's Peninsula
Travel over the hill to Bank's Peninsula and Akaroa where you'll swim with the dolphins.
Accommodation: Quest Cathedral Junction
Day 13: Scenic Drive Day
Today you'll enjoy a scenic drive through Canterbury and the MacKenzie Country.
Accommodation: Mt Cook Lodge & Motels
Day 14: Lindis Pass
Follow the dry lands to Lindis Pass which leads into Central Otago, then through the Kawerau Gorge to Queenstown.
Accommodation: Garden Court Suites and Apartments
Day 15: Queenstown
The day is yours to discover all the scenic spots and fun activities on offer in Queenstown.
Accommodation: Garden Court Suites and Apartments
Day 16: Wanaka
Take the Crown Range Road to Wanaka before traveling the spectacular Haast Pass to the West Coast.
Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Day 17: Westland National Park
Explore Franz Josef and Westland National Park
Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Day 18: Christchurch
Drive north along the stunning West Coast Road and take the TranzAlpine train to Christchurch
Accommodation: Quest Cathedral Junction
Day 19: Departure
Depart Christchurch today
