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Overview

Overview

There's no better way to explore the diverse landscape of New Zealand than on a self-drive holiday. Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of your own vehicle as you journey across the country, traversing volcanic terrain, driving past ancient glaciers and through forests of coniferous kauri trees. Bays, beaches and bush play host to an abundance of wildlife, and visitors can expect plenty of memorable experiences, from learning about Māori culture to a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight across Milford Sound. From the tip of the North Island to the adventure capital of the south, Queenstown, this self-drive tour is the perfect introduction to New Zealand's many wonders.

place Day 1 to 3 Bay of Islands
Day 1 to 3 Accommodation

Bay of Islands

The perfect start to your self-drive holiday around New Zealand is the Bay of Islands, a collection of 144 islands in the crystal clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. The islands promise abundant marine life, stunning natural beauty and three local townships steeped in Maori and colonial history. During your time staying at Eagles Nest, you will have a chance to explore the islands for a full day on a private catamaran. If you'd like to explore further, there are lots of other options too.

place Day 4 to 5 Auckland
Day 4 to 5 Accommodation

Auckland

From Eagles Nest, it's about a three hour drive south to Auckland passing small beachside towns, huge sand dunes and enormous kauri trees en route before you cross over Auckland’s harbour bridge into the city. Auckland, affectionately known as the ‘City of Sails’ is New Zealand’s largest city boasting two natural harbours, golden sand beaches, various off shore islands and marine reserves. During your stay in Auckland, we will arrange for a return private water taxi to Waiheke Island where you will be met by a driver to take you on a full day guided tour of some of the island's beautiful vineyards.

place Day 6 to 7 Rotorua
Day 6 to 7 Accommodation

Rotorua

Travel south through Auckland's city suburbs before reaching green farmland with rolling hills and small working communities. There's time for a stop at the Lord of the Rings Hobbiton movie set or at the ethereal glowworm caves at Waitomo before arriving in the geothermal city of Rotorua. Famous for its steaming lakes, bubbling hot pools and bursting geysers, there's lots to explore here, from following the trails at Wai-O-Tapu (Sacred Waters), New Zealands most colourful and diverse active volcano area, to enjoying a private guided tour of Ohinemutu Village, the first Maori settlement of Rotorua. There is also the chance to go zip wiring on an exhilarating eco adventure through the evergreen nature forests of the Mamaku Plateau.

place Day 8 to 10 Hawke’s Bay
Day 8 to 10 Accommodation

Hawke’s Bay

Another scenic three hour drive takes you past more geothermal wonders, onward to the delightful town of Taupo on the shores of the lake and over the Kaimanawa Ranges descending past vineyards before arriving at Hawke's Bay and Cape Kidnappers Lodge. As well as relaxing at this beautiful farm and making the most of all the onsite facilities and activities, such as the kiwi discovery walk, enjoying beach picnics and viewing the massive colony of gannets, you will have a chance to enjoy a private guided winery tour by e-bike. Savour some of Hawkes Bay’s finest foods and wines in renowned wineries surrounded by beautiful views. A round of golf on Cape Kidnapper's spectacular course with stunning landscape and sea views is also included during your time here.

place Day 11 Wellington
Day 11 Accommodation

Wellington

Your journey continues south from Hawke's Bay to Wellington, once dubbed ‘the coolest capital city in the world’. On the way you will pass through the exclusive Wairarapa wine region and its small towns featuring antique stores, boutiques and independent artisans. Your one night stay at the Sofitel Wellington is the perfect base from which to explore this fantastic city nestled between a dramatic harbour and bush clad hills with its feast of attractions.

place Day 12 to 13 Kaikoura
Day 12 to 13 Accommodation

Kaikoura

The three hour Interislander Ferry journey from Wellington to Picton is one of the most beautiful ferry journeys in the world, taking in spectacular views of Wellington Harbour, the wide expanse of the Cook Straight and with a majestic vista of Queen Charlotte Sound. On arrival you will be transferred to Hapuku Lodge in Kaikoura. During your time at the lodge you will be able to enjoy an exhilarating whale watching trip. There is also the chance to swim with dolphins and seals, spend a few hours fishing, check out the ‘street food’ (the BBQ crayfish is a must!) or take in the beautiful coastal views along the Peninsula Walkway and spot lots of different species of seabirds. You will definitely be spoilt for choice!

place Day 14 to 15 Christchurch
Day 14 to 15 Accommodation

Christchurch

Your journey will continue south around the rocky Kaikoura shoreline with its many beaches, over the Hunderlee Ranges and onto the vast Canterbury Plains until you reach Christchurch, New Zealand’s second largest city for your two night stay at Otahuna Lodge. Your stay here includes a day tour to Banks Peninsula, home to the quaint village of Akaroa, a favoured holiday destination for locals, and a two hour cruise of the harbour, renowned for its sparkling waters which are home to a myriad of sealife.

place Day 16 to 17 Ahuriri Valley
Day 16 to 17 Accommodation

Ahuriri Valley

Continuing your journey south, we recommend taking the scenic inland route from Christchurch to the Ahuriri Valley taking in the small farming communities of Canterbury Plains and the foothills towards Mackenzie County. When you arrive in the high country, huge barren landscapes bordered by the Southern Alps dotted with aqua blue lakes await you. Your stay at The Lindis Lodge enables you to fully explore the beautiful Ahuriri Valley. Whilst at leisure at the lodge, take advantage of being in one of the top ten fly fishing locations in the world, perhaps explore the rugged countryside on horseback, mountain bike or 4WD buggy, go for a hike through the surrounding wetlands or forests or spend some time studying the local flora and fauna. All of these options are possible on your own or with local guides, the choice is yours.

place Day 18 to 21 Queenstown
Day 18 to 21 Accommodation

Queenstown

Your three hour drive south to Queensland, 'the Adventure Capital of the World’ is via the beautiful Lindis Pass into Central Otago, past the small picturesque town of Wanaka and over the Crown Range Road, New Zealand’s highest road, with its spectacular views, before descending into Queensland. Whilst in Queensland, you will have the chance to take a helicopter to the spectacular natural attraction of Milford Sound and speed away on a jetboat deep into the heart of the world renowned Mt Aspiring National Park. Depending on your personal taste and preferences, there is also time to do some other activities whilst in Queensland; options range from adrenaline pursuits like bungy jumping, white water rafting and sky diving to more sedate options such as visiting the historic gold mining town of Arrowtown, browsing the town's chic boutiques, visiting the region's vineyards or playing a round of golf. Whatever activity appeals, you can be sure you'll enjoy taking in the views of Queenstown's picturesque landscape as you enjoy it.

On your final day, return your hire car before boarding your flight home on day 21.

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20 Nights

From £21,760per person

Pricing based upon economy flights from London. Transfers, UK airport lounge passes and meals and excursions As specified.

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