21 days & longer New Zealand self drive ideas

Explore the length of New Zealand on this comprehensive tour of both the North and South Islands. In the north you’ll explore the tropical Bay of Islands and the boutique wine region of Matakana as well as the cultural hotspot of Rotorua. After cruising across the Cook Strait to the South Island discover the wildlife mecca of Kaikoura, before continuing south to the snow-capped mountains, alpine lakes and glaciers of the lower South Island. Highlights of the south include the world renowned TranzAlpine scenic train journey and a voyage of discovery in Milford Sound.

This comprehensive tour carves a figure eight through spectacular South Island scenery. From Christchurch travel through the Mackenzie Country to Mt Cook then on to Otago and Dunedin. A detailed exploration of Fiordland National Park follows, before heading north to Queenstown and then to the West Coast Glaciers. Crossing the Southern Alps enjoy a two night stay in Arthur's Pass National Park before heading to the east coast and Kaikoura. Enjoy the Marlborough wine region and the golden sands of Abel Tasman National Park before turning south along the wild west coast. You return to Christchurch on board the TranzAlpine Scenic Train.

Experience New Zealand's diverse landscapes on a journey from the alpine South Island to the sub-tropical Bay of Islands. Discover towering peaks, geothermal wonders, and stunning coastal scenery on this unforgettable adventure.

Leave no stone unturned on this comprehensive 31-day New Zealand itinerary. You'll experience Rotorua's geothermal wonders, the pristine beauty of the Abel Tasman, and the historic Bay of Islands, capped off with an unforgettable overnight escape to Waitai Lodge in Fiordland.

Explore the length of New Zealand on this comprehensive tour of both the North and South Islands.  In the north you’ll explore the tropical Bay of Islands and the Kauri Coast as well as the cultural hotspot of Rotorua. After cruising across the Cook Strait to the South Island discover hidden beaches and the aqua waters of Abel Tasman National Park, before continuing south to the snow-capped mountains, alpine lakes and glaciers of the lower South Island.  Highlights of the south include the world renowned TranzAlpine scenic train journey and a voyage of discovery in Milford Sound.

Travel the length of New Zealand taking in the highlights and iconic landscapes you’ve heard so much about.  With many 2 night stays along the way, the relaxed pace of this tour allows you the time to really experience each destination.  The scenery and geography will change dramatically as you travel from the balmy Bay of Islands in the north, to the mountains and alpine lakes of the south.  We’ve included a nature cruise in Milford Sound and the world renowned TranzAlpine Scenic Train journey, two of the must-do activities in the South Island.  Take a look at our suggested activities to see what other experiences await you on this New Zealand tour. 

This comprehensive tour carves a figure eight through spectacular South Island scenery. From Christchurch travel through the Mackenzie Country to Mt Cook then on to Otago and Dunedin. A detailed exploration of Fiordland National Park follows, before heading north to Queenstown and then to the West Coast Glaciers. Crossing the Southern Alps enjoy a night in Arthur's Pass National Park before heading to the east coast and Kaikoura. Enjoy the Marlborough wine region and the golden sands of Abel Tasman National Park before turning south along the wild west coast. You return to Christchurch on board the TranzAlpine Scenic Train.

This comprehensive tour of the South Island begins with a West Coast exploration, including the majestic glaciers.  You then carve a figure 8 through Arthur's Pass to Kaikoura and on to the top of the South Island.  Enjoy a detailed exploration of Abel Tasman National Park before heading south to Punakaiki and the upper West Coast.  After boarding the TranzAlpine scenic train you travel through to Christchurch, where you have a free day to explore.  Then continue south along the East Coast to Dunedin, then onto the Magical Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound before you return to Queenstown after your epic South Island adventure.

This comprehensive tour of the South Island begins in Queenstown with the Dart River Safari, setting the scene for the adventures to come.  You’ll travel a figure 8 across the South Island taking in the spectacular scenery of mountains, glaciers, aqua blue lakes, white sandy beaches and lush rainforests.  Along the way you’ll have many opportunities to get up close to the wildlife and have some wild times of your own.  With fantastic self-catered accommodation this is the ideal choice for families.

This explorer tour takes in major attractions of both the North and South Island, while also guiding you to some favourite holiday destinations of the locals, like the Coromandel Peninsula.  Along the way you’ll enjoy two night stays to ensure you really experience New Zealand and have time to enjoy the many activities on offer.  We’ve also included four very different scenic cruises, beginning with a cruise in the sub-tropical Bay of Islands and finishing with a nature cruise in the pristine Milford Sound.  At the right time of year you might spot dolphins, penguins, seals and royal albatross. 

Starting in Christchurch this 3-week tour takes you around New Zealand's South Island before heading north to immerse yourself in the Maori culture. First, you'll visit the Mt Cook National Park, the Southern Lakes, cruise Milford Sound and meander up the dynamic west coast. Once you cross the Cook Strait you'll spend time in the quirky capital, journey the central plateau to the cultural centre, Rotorua. Highlights for many include a ride on the world-famous TranzAlpine Scenic Railway and perhaps catching a glimpse of a whale off the Kaikoura coast.

Travel the length of New Zealand taking in the highlights and iconic landscapes you’ve heard so much about.  With many 2 night stays along the way, the relaxed pace of this tour allows you the time to really experience each destination.  The scenery and geography will change dramatically as you travel from the balmy Bay of Islands in the north, to the mountains and alpine lakes of the south.  In Fiordland National Park you’ll experience untouched wilderness, first with a journey into Milford Sound for your nature cruise and then with what must be the highlight an overnight cruise in remote Doubtful Sound.

Discover the magic of New Zealand on this unforgettable journey. Explore both islands, immersing yourself in iconic destinations from vibrant cities to breathtaking natural wonders, with ample time to truly experience the best of Aotearoa.

Explore the length of New Zealand on this comprehensive tour of both the North and South Islands.  In the north you’ll explore the tropical Bay of Islands and the Kauri Coast as well as the cultural hotspot of Rotorua. After cruising across the Cook Strait to the South Island discover hidden beaches and the aqua waters of Abel Tasman National Park, before continuing south to the snow-capped mountains, alpine lakes and glaciers of the lower South Island.  Highlights of the south include the world renowned TranzAlpine scenic train journey and a voyage of discovery in Milford Sound.

In just over 3 weeks, you’ll experience an amazing diversity in scenery, landscape and geography as you journey from the alpine regions of the South Island to the sub-tropical Bay of Islands in the North Island.  Along the way you have many two night stays allowing you the time to relax and soak up your surroundings which will vary from cosmopolitan cities to national parks and everything in between.

A 30 day tour visiting all major regions on both the North and South Islands. A relaxed pace allows time to immerse yourself into the local atmosphere.

Welcome to the South Island Discovery, where breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture await you. This tour offers an unforgettable adventure through New Zealand's South Island, from majestic mountains and pristine beaches to charming towns and bustling cities. Whether you're a nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast or a thrill-seeker, this journey has something for everyone.

Experience the best of New Zealand’s North and South Islands on this unforgettable tour, from vibrant cities to awe-inspiring natural wonders. Discover geothermal landscapes, rich Māori culture, majestic mountains, stunning coastlines, and thrilling adventures along the way.

This comprehensive tour carves a figure eight through spectacular South Island scenery.  From Christchurch travel through the Mackenzie Country to Mt Cook, then on to Otago and Dunedin. An exploration of the remote Doubtful Sound in Fiordland National Park follows, before heading north to Queenstown and then to the West Coast Glaciers. Crossing the Southern Alps enjoy a night in Arthur's Pass National Park before heading to the east coast and Kaikoura. Enjoy the Marlborough wine region and the golden sands of Abel Tasman National Park before turning south along the wild west coast. You return to Christchurch on board the Tranz Alpine Scenic Train.

Our longest tour allows you time to explore every region of New Zealand including those iconic destinations you’ve heard so much about and some lesser known gems that the outside world hasn’t discovered yet.

Discover the vibrant cities and stunning landscapes of New Zealand on this 21-day tour, featuring highlights like Rotorua, Tongariro National Park, the West Coast glaciers, Milford Sound, and Mt Cook National Park.

Discover the best of New Zealand on this ultimate North and South Island adventure, showcasing breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and incredible wildlife. From the tropical beauty of the Bay of Islands to the alpine wonders of the South, this journey is packed with unforgettable highlights, including the TranzAlpine train and a cruise through Milford Sound.

The New Zealand Odyssey visits all of New Zealand's must see's and some of the best off-the-beaten-track goodies. This is great for people who want to see and experience as much of NZ as they can.

The ultimate New Zealand explorer tour, from Cape Reinga at the top all the way south to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound, this tour has something for everyone.

The ultimate Kiwi adventure across New Zealand. This New Zealand tour allows you to explore all that New Zealand has to offer and takes you off the beaten track throughout your journey.

Discover New Zealand’s North and South Islands in depth featuring iconic attractions, hidden gems, diverse landscapes, and rich wildlife for the ultimate adventure.

The ultimate 28 day essential tour. Visit and experience the very best of New Zealand. From the top of the North Island to the deep south enjoy superb hospitality while staying in a fantastic range of hotels, luxury lodges and boutique accommodations.

Discover New Zealand's stunning scenery, unique adventures, and warm Kiwi hospitality. Visit Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown, and more. This customizable package ensures an unforgettable experience tailored just for you.

This North Island self drive tour captures everything that is special about the region. from Northland beaches to the wine regions of Hawke’s Bay and Martinborough and the heartland of Rotorua.

Explore New Zealand’s highlights, from vibrant cities and cultural treasures to breathtaking landscapes like Milford Sound, the Southern Alps, and the iconic TranzAlpine Train

This comprehensive tour carves a figure eight through spectacular South Island scenery. From Christchurch travel through the Mackenzie Country to Mt Cook then on to Otago and Dunedin. A detailed exploration of Fiordland National Park follows, before heading north to Queenstown and then to the West Coast Glaciers. Crossing the Southern Alps enjoy a night in Arthur's Pass National Park before heading to the east coast and Kaikoura. Enjoy the Marlborough wine region and the golden sands of Abel Tasman National Park before turning south along the wild west coast. You return to Christchurch on board the TranzAlpine Scenic Train.

21 Day self-drive tour will ensure you have found all of the North Islands' hidden gems and immerse yourself in the country's culture, all while be blown away by the beautiful scenery.