Day 1

You will be met on arrival from your flight and a private driver will deliver you to your Christchurch accommodation.

Welcome to Christchurch, the the Garden City and gateway to the South Island and its vast and diverse range of scenery, activities and wonderful experiences.
Christchurch City boasts one of the largest public parks in the country and the city centre is full of impressive stone buildings reminiscent of the English university towns. The focal point of the city is Cathedral Square and from here you can explore the museums and art galleries and of course the shops and restaurants. One of the best ways to see some of the city centre sights and attractions though is by the famous historic trams. A 30 minute loop allows hop-on, hop-off at museums, art galleries, gardens and shops.

Day 2

Today you head into the heart of the South Island. Crossing the vast Canterbury Plains along the inland scenic route the first township of Geraldine offers an ideal refreshment stop before you head into Mackenzie country.

Passing through places such as Beautiful Valley it's not hard to understand where the names originate. Ascending Burkes Pass and onto the high country plateau and the picturesque town of Lake Tekapo, the first of the large Southern Lakes. It's a great place to take a scenic flight, enjoy a guided horse trek, a boat trip on the pristine lake or just enjoy the magnificent views.

Lake Pukaki is just another 30 minutes from Lake Tekapo and its from here you can be rewarded with spectacular views the full length of the lake and into Mt. Cook National Park. In Mt. Cook Village a myriad of activities are available from glacier landings by ski plane or helicopter, kayaking on a glacial lake and a host of walks to suit all abilities and time frames. At The Hermitage Hotel the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre is a must see.

Day 3

Twizel, just south of Mt. Cook was the location of many Lord of the Rings movie scenes and a little further on is Omarama, the gliding capital of New Zealand. Wrinkly Rams is a local café and also offers an informative sheep shearing demonstration. Heading down the Waitaki valley you follow the hydro power generating system towards the east coast.
The town of Oamaru is most famous for its buildings constructed with the unique locally quarried white stone. Explore the old quarter or if you don't mind a late arrival into Dunedin then stay around to see the blue penguins come ashore at dusk. Further south the Moeraki Boulders are a unique geological feature and worth the short detour to the beach to view.
Arriving into Dunedin you can appreciate the city's Edwardian and Scottish heritage through its fine buildings particularly around the Octagon and city centre.

Day 4

Dunedin City Centre is full of grand and fascinating buildings and none more so that Dunedin Railway Station, recently listed as one of top 100 buildings in the world. From the station you can take a scenic train journey along the Taieri Gorge.
The Otago Peninsular is just a short drive from the city centre and offers some unique wildlife experiences. Here you can visit the only mainland Royal Albatross breeding colony in the world. The beaches and hillsides are also home to the yellow eyed penguin, the world's rarest penguin and seals, sea lions and a host of other bird life can be seen. Monarch Wildlife Cruises offer a choice of guided tours to explore the peninsular. New Zealand’s only castle, Larnach Castle, has spectacular views from its extensive gardens and also a fascinating history.

Day 5

The drive to Te Anau takes you through classic Southland farmland scenery but if you want to spend the whole day exploring a little off the beaten path than taking the Southern Scenic Route through The Catlins is highly recommended. Following the incredible Otago coastline to Invercargill the route passes through the fishing town of Riverton and Colac Bay before heading north through Tuatapere and onto Manapouri. It's from here that you can embark on a day or overnight cruise to Doubtful Sound.
Just a little further north and you arrive into the lake side township of Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park and the world famous Milford Sound.

Day 6

The Milford Road

Countless photo opportunities and short walks mean this drive should not be rushed. The Mirror Lakes create perfectly clear reflections of the surrounding mountains and glacier formed meadows and ancient native beech forest create a unique and fascinating landscape. The Homer Tunnel is an incredible engineering feat at 1219 metres long. The road slopes towards Milford at a rate of 1 in 10. The chasm (a short 15 minute walk) demonstrates the incredible power water has as it continues to shape and carve the valley. Most stops and points of interest are well signposted on the 121 kilometre road but don't underestimate how long this drive will take you with scenic stops.

Milford Sound

Milford Sound is the best known of the sounds that lie throughout Fiordland National Park and is also the only fiord accessible by road. Sheer cliffs starting hundreds of metres below the waters surface rise spectacularly to the sky. It is 16 kilometres from the head of the fiord to the open sea and Real Journeys cruise vessels will take you there and back comfortably in around 2 hours. Dolphins and seals can often be seen, and following a large downpour the waterfalls that line the fiords are magnificent, particularly the 146 metre high Stirling Falls.

An extended and leisurely 2½ hour cruise of Milford Sound on board the Milford Mariner, MV Sinbad or Milford Wanderer. These modern vessels, purpose built for operating in a fiord environment, have been designed along the lines of a traditional trading scow, and have real character. These relaxing cruises have special appeal for the independent traveler and an on board nature guide provides detailed interpretation and commentary.. There is plenty of time available to explore points of interest and to view the stunning scenery, including waterfalls, rainforest and the towering peaks. Keep a lookout for dolphins, seals and penguins.

Day 7

Crossing the rolling tussock lands you pass through Mossburn, the deer capital of New Zealand. On the southern shore of Lake Wakatipu sits Kingston, home to classic steam train, The Kingston Flyer. Following the lake north the Remarkable mountain range towers over you as you approach the adventure capital of Queenstown.

Day 8

Queenstown offers adventure for all tastes and abilities. From some of the more well know adrenalin sports such as bungy jumping and skydiving to the more sedate such as sampling the local wines or exploring the historic Chinese settlement at Arrowtown, there is something for everyone.
Sitting on the shores of Lake Wakatipu there are many water based activities to enjoy. The TSS Earnslaw is a rare working example of a steamship still operating and cruises take you to Walter Peak Station to enjoy a farm tour, lunch or a farmhouse dinner. The Kawarua Jet offers a slightly faster experience with thrilling one hour jet boat rides. Fishing and sailing are also possible here.
The Gibbston Vallley is a short drive from Queenstown and it's here you will find the vineyards producing some of the finest wines in New Zealand, particularly the Pinot Noir. Appellation Wine Tours have a choice of tour options to ensure you get to experience the best and of course have the chance to sample the vintages.
Arrowtown is a popular destination for many visitors to Queenstown. This historic gold mining town features many original buildings and now also boasts some great shopping. The Lakes District Museum is also here and ranks as one of the best in the country.
Nomad Safaris offer 4WD excursions in and around Queenstown to otherwise difficult locations such as Skippers Canyon and Mace Town. Informative guides share theirs and other locals stories of the region.
At the Head of the Lake sits Glenorchy. The 40 kilometre drive along the lake edge is worth the trip alone however arriving into this peaceful township you could easily rest the day away sitting on the shores of the lake. A great trip from here is the Dart River Wilderness Safari, by far the most scenic jet boat excursion in the country. A short walk amongst native beech forest plus a 4WD bus journey is capped off with over 1 1/2 hours and around 35 kilometres of exhilarating jet boat action as you head deep into Mt. Aspiring National Park.
See here for many more ideas and activities in and around Queenstown.

Day 9

Crossing the Crown Range, the highest sealed road in the country, you arrive into the alpine town of Wanaka. The route follows the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea before you enter the township of Makarora, the gateway to Mt. Aspiring National Park and the Blue Pools here are a wonderful 30 minute walk through pristine native beech forest. Descending into Mt. Aspiring National Park and towards the Haast Pass, crashing rivers and waterfalls are around every corner. Crossing the Haast River you are now truly on the wild West Coast, a 600 kilometre stretch of bush, rainforest and podocarp forest. First Fox Glacier welcomes you to the glacier region and Franz Josef township is just a further 45 minutes.
A great way to experience the glaciers is with The Helicopter Line or Mt. Cook ski planes.

Day 10

The main attraction in Franz Josef is of course the glacier. Very few places in the world have such large glaciers almost at sea level and even more unusually is that the lower slopes are amongst rain forest.
Franz Josef Glacier Guides have a great choice of guided interpretive walks to and on the glacier. While you can walk without a guide along the valley floor you must take a licensed tour to get any closer than 100 metres of the glacier. The tours offered are an interpretive Valley Walk (3 hours), a Half Day (4 1/2 hours) hike including around 1 1/2 hours on the lower glacier, a Full Day (7-8 hours) adventure onto the ice and for the very adventurous a full day of Ice Climbing. All equipment is provided for these tours.
One of the most popular ways to experience the glaciers though is on a Helihike. A Scenic helicopter flight delivers you to the upper slopes where a guide then accompanies you for around 2 hours over the ice flows, caves and crevasses.
Other scenic flights with short lacier landings are available with The Helicopter Line and Mt. Cook Ski Planes offer unique ski equipped fixed wing aircraft landings.
The township, although small, has a lively atmosphere during its busy seasons and there is plenty of choice to dine out and reflect on your days adventure.

Day 11

The drive north from Franz Josef takes you through the historic gold mining region of Ross and the town of Hokitika, a great place to explore the craft stores, in particular the jade or greenstone. The largest town on the West Coast, Greymouth is also the starting point for the Tranz Alpine Scenic Train. Drop your rental car at the depot (located at the train station before checking in for your train journey.

Considered one of the worlds great train journeys, the Tranz Alpine scenic train takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch, from the West Coast and the Tasman Sea to the east coast and the Pacific Ocean. From your carriage you'll see the spectacular Otira Valley and mountains of Arthur's Pass National Park and the Southern Alps. Rivers, waterfalls and lush beech forest followed by high country farmland whisk by before your journey follows the Waimakariri River and then onto the Canterbury Plains before arriving into Christchurch just after 6pm.
On arrival into Christchurch train station a private transfer will deliver you to your accommodation.

A private transfer will meet you on arrival into Christchurch train station and drive you to your Christchurch accommodation.

Day 12

The drive north from Christchurch to Kaikoura takes you through some fine rolling farmland and North Canterbury's major wine region, the Waipara Valley. A great detour to take is to head inland and visit Hanmer Springs for a dip in the natural hot pools. Crossing the Hawkswood Range you descend towards the spectacular Kaikoura coastline and the road hugs the ocean as it winds its way the remaining 15 kilometres to the township.
Kaikoura Township is a bustling little place with many cafes, restaurants and shops but the main reason for visiting here is the wildlife. Whale Watch Kaikoura is New Zealand's only marine-based whale watching company offering visitors an exciting up-close encounter with the Giant Sperm Whale at all times of the year.Kaikoura is New Zealand's world famous whale watching destination. Sperm Whales can be seen here year-round while depending on the season you may also see migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales.
Another great Kaikoura activity is Swimming with the Seals. Donning a wet suit you have the opportunity to interact with these inquisitive creatures on their terms. Wings over Whales also offer tours from fixed wing aircraft to view the whales and other marine creatures from 500 feet in the air.

Day 13

The road hugs the shore for around 50 kilometres and offers many chances to view the native wildlife such as seabirds and New Zealand fur seals. To the east is the turquoise of the South Pacific Ocean and to the west the towering Kaikoura Ranges. Crossing the ‘dry hills’ of the Marlborough ranges you head towards one of the most spectacular coastlines of the South Island, the Kaikoura Coast.
Blenheim sits right at the heart of the New Zealand's largest wine producing region, Marlborough, and is ideally located to enjoy an afternoon sampling of the local produce.
A short drive from Blenheim to the busy port town of Picton, and its here from that the Interislander ferries arrive and depart. The town centre is quite small with plenty of shops and cafes and the waterfront area is a very pleasant place to spend a few hours watching the activity of the ships. The Edwin Fox Maritime Centre on the wharf is worth a visit with the star attraction being the vessel the Edwin Fox, reputably the 9th oldest ship in the world. Its also the starting point the for the famous Queen Charlotte Walk.
Queen Charlotte Drive travels the Marlborough Sounds coastline between Picton and Havelock. Magnificent views of the sounds can be had from many vantage points so allow plenty of time to enjoy the scenery. If you can spare the time take the narrow windy road to Portage along Mahau Sound and Kenepuru Sound with their bush clad hillsides and secluded sandy coves.
The small port town of Havelock has a great variety of cafes and restaurants to choose from so plan your journey to arrive in time for lunch. The highway between Nelson and Picton also crosses the Pelorus River and just at this junction is the famous and historic Pelorus Bridge. From here there are a number of forest walks with the most popular the 30 minute loop through beech, rimu and totara forest to the swing-bridge.
Crossing the Bryant Range you arrive onto Tasman Bay and the city of Nelson. Mapua and Motueka are around 45 minutes further around the bay putting you in a great position to explore beautiful Abel Tasman National Park.

Day 14

Abel Tasman is renowned for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and its world-famous coastal track. It also has a mild climate and is a great place to visit at any time of the year. The main attractions in the park are walking, sea kayaking and enjoying its many beaches.
Wilsons Abel Tasman have been showing off the park to visitors for many years and their range of self guided cruise and walks has something to suit everyone. Enjoy a scenic cruise along the coast to a beautiful bay and after being dropped off enjoy the coastal track to the next bay where you will be collected from at a predetermined time.
Sea Kayaking is also a popular way of exploring the region and Wilsons also operate a kayak, seals and walk trip. Using stable double kayaks these trips are suitable for anyone.
For a more in depth tour of the park by kayak then the Beaches and Bays Guided Sea Kayak tour may be the answer.

Day 15

Take the scenic Queen Charlotte Drive from Nelson to Picton where you board the Interislander Ferry for your crossing to the North Island.

The 92 km journey between Picton and Wellington takes around 3 hours and has been described as 'one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world'. Around one hour of the cruise takes you through the Marlborough Sounds. This region of bush covered mountains, small islands, crystal clear waters and secluded bays is a true photographic opportunity. From the Cook Strait spectacular views of the Kaikoura Ranges on the South Island can be enjoyed and dolphins and many sea birds are often seen. After crossing the strait you approach Wellington Harbour and pass many interesting points such as Pencarrow Head on top of which is New Zealand's oldest lighthouse (1859). Red Rocks is home to a seal colony and Oterangi Bay is the site which recorded the countries highest ever wind speed of 268 kph (167 mph).

Day 16

New Zealand's capital, Wellington, sits on a large natural harbour at the bottom of the North Island. First explored in 1826 by Captain Herd, the deep water harbour is consider one of the finest in the world and this point was a major factor in the decision to site the first organised settlement of the New Zealand Company here.
"Windy Wellington" is often buffeted by strong winds whipped up in the Cook Strait, the stretch of water separating the North and South Islands. It is the worlds southern most capital city and the only city in the world that lies within the "roaring forties" latitudes.
The mix of modern high rise, colonial historic and wonderful timber villas that cling to the hillsides give the city a true diversity and a fitting mix for a capital with a rich history. The executive offices of Parliament are one of the more well known landmarks in the city and the nickname "The Beehive" is very apt. Government Buildings opposite the beehive is one of the largest wooden buildings in the world. Restored to its 1876 glory it's now open to the public.
Wellington is also home to a selection of great museums such as Te Papa, New Zealand's national museum (not to be missed), The National Library and the Museum of Wellington City and Sea.
For some great views of the city and the harbour take the Cable Car from Lambton Quay up into the hills of Kelburn, 130 metres above the city. The ride terminates in the botanic gardens, a 26 hectare park with rose, fern, succulents, exotic trees and native forest displays.
Another great vantage point is Mt. Victoria. If you're felling energetic take a stroll along the waterfront cafes of oriental bay and walk to the top of the hill. Great views across to the Hutt Valley can be enjoyed. The cannon on the summit dates back to 1877.
Wellington has excellent shopping, theatre, cafes and restaurants and being only 2 kilometres wide the majority can easily be explored on foot. The capital's proximity to the sea, the mountains of the Rimutakas and Tararuas, the rolling countryside and wine regions of the Wairarapa provide a myriad of opportunities for adventure or relaxation.
Just around 1 1/2 hours drive east is the town of Martinborough. This boutique wine growing area is a popular destination to enjoy some tasting tours or a relaxing lunch. The Cape Palliser Coastline is also one of New Zealand's most rugged regions and is a haven for wildlife.
A great way to see the city sights is on a Flat Earth half day sightseeing tour or a Lord of the Rings tour.

Day 17

The drive from Rotorua to Wellington takes you via the Kapiti Coast and the seaside towns of Plimmerton, Paekakariki and Paraparaumu are worth a short detour. Heading north you pass through the rural towns of Taihape, Mangaweka and Bulls before arriving onto the central plateau. A little further the military town of Waiouru also hosts the Army Museum, an incredible collection of New Zealand’s military history and a memorial to its servicemen. Skirting Tongariro National Park, one of New Zealand’s three world heritage sites, and clouds permitting you can see the 2,500 metre peak of the still volcanically active Mt. Ruapehu. You might recognise the symmetrical shape of Mt. Ngauruhoe as this was used as the scenery of Mt. Doom in the Lord of the Rings Trilogy.
Next the township of Taupo and New Zealand's largest lake, Lake Taupo. The lake itself is actually a gigantic volcanic caldera formed during one of the worlds largest ever eruptions. Just north of the town are the Huka Falls and a short detour to view is advised. The Huka Jet can get you much closer with a thrilling jet boat ride also if you wish. Craters of the Moon is a nearby geothermal reserve with well formed walking tracks around its many bulling pools and steaming vents.
Continuing the last leg to Rotorua you pass alongside some of the most active geothermal regions such as Wai O Tapu and Waimangu Valley.
Arriving into the City of Rotorua the regions geothermal activity becomes evident as you see steam rising from the roadside and hills.
Rotorua is considered the Maori cultural centre and its here you can enjoy and experience some of their history. The Rotorua Museum is outstanding and one of its main presentations is the devastating eruption of Mt. Tarawera in 1886. Nearby Ohinemutu Village is the original site of the first Maori settlers in the area.
One of the most popular introductions for many to the Maori culture is through an evening at Tamaki Maori Village. A recreated village pre-European times gives you an insight into the way of life before an evening of song, dance and entertainment. A dinner prepared in the traditional manner is served to finish the evening off.

Day 18

Rotorua sits right in the centre of the worlds most volcanically active region and this is highly evident through the smell of sulphur. No visit to Rotorua would be complete without visiting one of the many geothermal parks or areas. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is around 30 minutes from Rotorua and here a network of paths will take you though bubbling pool, sulphur ponds, geysers and waterfalls. Formed during the eruption of Mt. Tarawera was the Waimangu Volcanic Valley and you can also stroll amongst hot springs and enjoy a short boat cruise in the world's newest geothermal eco system.
The Buried Village or the village of Te Wairoa was destroyed during the Tarawera eruption. Now this registered historic area has been excavated to show original buildings pre eruption. Set amongst beautiful bush there is also a dedicated museum telling the fascinating story of Te Wairoa Village and the legendary Pink and White Terraces.
White Island sits around 40 kilometres off the Bay of Plenty coast and is still one the most active volcanoes in the world. Volcanic Air Safaris offer scenic helicopter and float plane trips to the island and the opportunity to land (helicopter only) and explore the original sulphur mines. They also offer scenic flights over Mt. Tarawera and float plane flights to Orakei Korako Hidden Valley.
Rotorua though also offers much more than this. The lake is stocked with trout and fishing charters operate from the lake front. The Agrodome offers a unique New Zealand experience combining farm tours and sheep shearing shows with the opportunity to enjoy some of the adrenalin packed adventures New Zealand is renown for.

Day 19

The drive from Rotorua to Auckland takes you through the heart of the Waikato and its rich agricultural land. New Zealand's longest river, the Waikato River, guides you through the art and craft stores of Tirau and the township of Cambridge.
Auckland City is New Zealand's largest, with a population of around 1.5 million people (about one third of the national population), spread over approximately 60 square kilometres. There is somewhere for every visitor to feel comfortable and right at home as each suburb has its own unique style and atmosphere, from the vibrant and trendy fashion and cuisine found on Ponsonby and Parnell Roads to the breathtaking native bush and beaches of the West Coast. One of the worlds great cities Auckland is full of life and opportunities to explore are endless. Spend the day exploring the city or relaxing before your adventure begins.

Day 20

Heading north to the Bay of Islands normally takes around 3 ½ hours but plan to take a little longer. The township of Puhoi, New Zealand’s only Bohemian settlement, the art stores and cafes of Warkworth, the harbour side in Whangarei and the unique township of Kawakawa are all worth exploring. Arriving into the sub tropical Bay of Islands you are greeted with bush clad hillsides dropping to golden sand beaches. Paihia is the main tourist centre in the bay and has a great beach side atmosphere.

Day 21

A visit to the Bay of Islands wouldn't be complete without a cruise amongst the islands or even a trip to swim with the dolphins. Dolphin Discoveries operate daily Swimming with the Dolphins Tours and also Discover the Bays cruises.
Waitangi, just a few kilometres north of Paihia is considered the most important historical site of modern New Zealand. It was here that the Treaty of Waitangi was prepared and signed between the Crown and Maori. The visitor centre tells its ongoing story and is set in beautiful gardens and grounds.
Russell Township, on the other side of the bay is full of history and stories from its days as the 'hell hole of the Pacific'. This was the countries first busy port and capital. Fernz Eco Tours offer guided tours that include exploring the bush and beaches, local food and wine and the local Maori culture.

Day 22

Heading west from the Bay of Islands you leave the Pacific Ocean and soon and arrive into the Hokianga and the wilder seas of the Tasman.
The small townships of Omapere and Opononi have a great seaside feel and the perfect place to stop for an ice cream. The route now heads south and into the Waipoua Forest, home to the massive Kauri trees. Make sure you allow time to take a few short walks that are signposted as you pass through the region. Not to be missed is the 5 minute loop to view the largest of all the trees Tane Mahuta.
Heading back across country the Matakohe Kauri Museum is an award winning museum and has extensive displays of the regions logging, farming and social history. Just a short drive from Warkworth towards the coast is the small township of Matakana and a little further you will find the often deserted beaches of the Tawharanui Marine Reserve.
The final leg of the journey takes you back along State Highway 1 and the North Shore suburbs before crossing the Auckland Harbour Bridge and into the city.

Day 23

Explore more of Auckland before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.