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New Zealand Grand Tour

This 14 day itinerary ensures you get to experience the essential must see destinations of each island. From the City of Sails to the golden sand beaches of the Coromandel and the adventure and culture of Rotorua, the wine regions of Napier and the capital of Wellington. Cross to the South Island and its rugged mountains, glaciers and lakes. A true classic driving tour, perfect to customise to your ideal holiday.

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Itinerary details at a glance

North & South Island Self Drive

This suggested tour costs from NZD$3,730 per person (twin share, low season)

Starts in Auckland, finishes in Christchurch

14 days/13 nights

Motels

 Rental car included

 Viewed 52 times in the last 7 days

This North & South Island Self Drive tour idea includes:

- Private Transfer Auckland Airport to Auckland accommodation
Tour at a glance

Day 1: Welcome to Auckland the 'City of Sails'
Accommodation: Nesuto Stadium Hotel and Apartments

Day 2: Head south to the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula
Accommodation: Beachside Resort
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 207 kms / 129 miles : 3.0 hours

Day 3: Travel to the Maori cultural capital of Rotorua
Accommodation: Silver Fern Suites & Spa
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 220 kms / 137 miles : 3.4 hours

Day 4: Cross the thermal region south of Rotorua to Taupo and onto the coast to reach Napier
Accommodation: Bella Vista Napier
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 210 kms / 131 miles : 2.4 hours

Day 5: Travel through the rolling countryside from Napier to Wellington
Accommodation: CityLife Wellington
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 322 kms / 200 miles : 4.1 hours

Day 6: Take the ferry to Picton then to Nelson via Queen Charlotte Drive
Accommodation: Tides Hotel (was Trailways Hotel)
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 104 kms / 65 miles : 1.6 hours

Day 7: Head down the coast to Hokitika
Accommodation: Beachfront Hotel Hokitika
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 333 kms / 206 miles : 4.1 hours

Day 8: Hokitika to Franz Josef, Glacier Country
Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 133 kms / 82 miles : 1.6 hours

Day 9: Franz Josef to Wanaka and onto Queenstown
Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 344 kms / 213 miles : 4.6 hours

Day 10: A full day to explore Queenstown
Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge

Day 11: Follow the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park
Accommodation: Lakefront Lodge
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 164 kms / 102 miles : 1.9 hours

Day 12: Cross the Southland Scenery to Dunedin, Edinburgh of the South
Accommodation: Motel on York
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 285 kms / 177 miles : 3.3 hours

Day 13: Follow the coast north and onto Christchurch City
Accommodation: Quest on Cambridge
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 346 kms / 215 miles : 4.2 hours

Day 14: Your last day, explore the city before your onward journey

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 7 kms / 5 miles : 0.2 hours

Detailed itinerary - day by day
Tour full itinerary
New Zealand Grand Tour - Day 1
Private Transfer Auckland Airport to Auckland Accommodation

You will be met at the Auckland airport by the driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation.

Welcome to Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand's self-proclaimed "City of Sails" is the country's largest metro area. Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this urban paradise has something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the central museums and galleries on foot, or take a drive through one of over 28 regional National Parks to see deserted beaches, waterfalls and native forest.

Your accommodation: Nesuto Stadium Hotel and Apartments

Nesuto Stadium offers 4.5 star self-contained apartment accommodation in downtown Auckland City. Located a short walk from Britomart Transport and Entertainment Precinct, Auckland Waterfront and Ferries, Queen Street and Vector Arena, Nesuto Stadium is in a wonderful location to visit all of Auckland Cities attractions.

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New Zealand Grand Tour - Day 2
Choose from our great range of late model rental cars for your driving holiday

Today you’ll take to the road for your New Zealand Self Drive holiday, so take a look through the great selection of late model vehicles available and take your pick.

Auckland to Whitianga via Coromandel Township

Leaving Auckland you'll cross the lush farmland of the Hauraki Plains - one of New Zealand's largest dairy producing regions. Continue on through the Thames Estuary, a haven for wildlife and shore birds. Arrive in the historic gold mining town of Thames and choose between two different routes to the Coromandel. Directly over the Coromandel Ranges will deliver you in a snappy 45 minutes, however the more scenic - and three hours longer - route takes you North to Coromandel Town along the Pohutukawa Coast. This is one of the most spectacular drives in the region and not to be missed.

Your accommodation: Beachside Resort

Beachside Resort is located just a three minute stroll to Whitianga's main street and only a minute to the beautiful Buffalo Beach. The modern fully equipped apartments are the perfect base for exploring the region.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 207 kms / 129 miles : 3.0 hours

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New Zealand Grand Tour - Day 3
Whitianga to Rotorua via Tauranga

Heading south from the Coromandel Peninsula you pass through the seaside town of Whangamata, a popular location for Kiwi holidaymakers and home to one of the best beaches in the region. Next, you come to the old mining town of Waihi which still has an operating open cast gold mine (Martha Mine) that can be viewed from a vantage point just above the town centre.
For rail enthusiasts, the Goldfields Railway operates passenger trains along a scenic and historic section of track towards Waikino. The route now takes you into the Bay of Plenty and the port town of Tauranga before you head along the scenic Pyes Pa Road to Rotorua. For Lord of the Rings fans, a detour to Matamata is recommended as this is the location of the Hobbiton film set. Arriving in Rotorua from the north you are welcomed by the spectacular view of the lake.

Rotorua

Discover the geothermal, adventure, and cultural wonderland of Rotorua, a city perched atop one of the world's most active volcanoes. As you explore, you may see steam rising from cracks in the road, bubbling and hissing water in pools along the lake's edge, and, of course, the unmistakable smell of sulfur. Rotorua is rich in Māori culture and history, with many Māori inhabitants having recognised the great potential of the volcanic land. Your stay in Rotorua will be filled with activities. For an outdoor adventure, head to The Redwoods and experience the rainforest treetops from high up. If you’re lucky, you might spot some of New Zealand's native birds, such as the Piwakawaka (Fantail) and the Tui. Alternatively, enjoy the Lake Tikitapu Blue Lake Walk or explore Kuirau Park, where you'll find bubbling mud pools and steaming lakes. Don't miss the private thermal reserves such as Whakarewarewa and Wai-O-Tapu, where you can walk among bubbling mud pools, spouting geysers, and sulfur ponds. Just a few minutes from the town center, Mt. Ngongotaha, and the Skyline Gondola and Luge offer breathtaking views of the lake, while the Agrodome Center promises adventure and adrenaline. Here, you can ride the Zorb, speed up to 100kph on a jet boat, simulate skydiving, or take the plunge on a giant swing. Rotorua's rich Māori culture is a must-see. Take a magical tour around Te Puia, or stroll along the lake edge to reach one of the country's oldest Māori villages at Ohinemutu. When hunger strikes, visit Eat Street in Rotorua CBD, a vibrant street lined with delicious eateries and restaurants to satisfy any craving.  No visit to Rotorua would be complete without experiencing Rotorua's original tourist attraction - a relaxing spa treatment. Whether you are seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, Rotorua offers an unforgettable experience.

Your accommodation: Silver Fern Suites & Spa

Silver Fern Suites & Spa is located just minutes from Rotorua's city centre and is close to popular thermal attractions, cafes, restaurants and golf courses. Suites have a private spa pool or double spa bath for you to unwind and relax.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 220 kms / 137 miles : 3.4 hours

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New Zealand Grand Tour - Day 4
Rotorua to Napier

This drive will take you through the thermal region just south of Rotorua. Home to a plethora of unique geothermal attractions including boiling mud pits, natural hot springs and steaming geysers, this area is a must do before you move on to Napier. Notable attractions are Wai-O-Tapu, Waimangu and Craters of the Moon.
Continue on to Taupo and marvel at the lake, a giant crater formed following a volcanic eruption in the year 180 CE. As you approach the city, be sure to stop at Huka Falls to view the spectacular sight of hundreds of cubic metres of water spilling every second down the narrow 11 metre drop.
For an extra thrill take a jet-boat ride to the base of the falls. Leaving Taupo, follow the road as it climbs the rugged Ahimanawa Range before descending back down the Pacific Coast to art deco Napier.

SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a spectacular showcase of New Zealand’s most colourful and unique geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of years of volcanic activity. You are introduced to a uniquely different natural landscape – the key to what you see lies below the surface – one of the most extensive geothermal systems in New Zealand, extending over 18-sq. km. Enjoy viewing unique volcanic features as you walk at your own pace along well-defined tracks. Relax in the first-class Visitor Centre, home to the Gift Shop and Café facilities. Visit the Mud Pool, the largest in New Zealand, it was originally the site of a large mud volcano which was destroyed through erosion in the 1920s. See the history and beauty of the Lady Knox Geyser at 10:15 am every day. Lady Knox Geyser provides a unique opportunity to see an eruption to heights of 10 to 20 metres.

Your accommodation: Bella Vista Napier

Bella Vista Motel Napier invites you to experience its friendly service and modern motel units. Located close to shops, restaurants and the renowned Marine Parade with its majestic Norfolk pines.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 210 kms / 131 miles : 2.4 hours

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New Zealand Grand Tour - Day 5
Napier to Wellington City via Masterton

The rolling countryside of the Hawke's Bay leads you into some of New Zealand’s richest farmland, located around the Manawatu region. Passing along the Manawatu Gorge the Wairarapa welcomes you. Masterton is home to the golden shears sheep shearing competition while just further south Greytown boasts the largest concentration of historic wooden buildings in the country.
Nearby Martinborough is home to dozens of boutique wineries. The route takes you over the Rimutaka Range and along the magnificent natural harbour that the capital city of Wellington sits upon.

Your accommodation: CityLife Wellington

City Life Wellington is a suite style hotel with every amenity required for a comfortable stay, as well as being in a superb location to explore the compact city centre. Situated on Lambton Quay, you’ll find the best shopping, tourist attractions and cultural landmarks all within easy walking distance.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 322 kms / 200 miles : 4.1 hours

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New Zealand Grand Tour - Day 6
Interislander Ferry Wellington to Picton

The 92 km journey between Wellington and Picton takes around 3 hours and has been described as 'one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world'. Leaving Wellington Harbour you 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 country's highest ever wind speed of 268 kph (167 mph).
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. Around one hour of the cruise takes you through the Marlborough Sounds and this region of bush covered mountains, small islands, crystal clear waters and secluded bays offer remarkable photographic opportunities. The final leg of your cruise travels through Queen Charlotte Sound before coming to an end in the picturesque town of Picton.

Choose from our great range of late model rental cars for your driving holiday

Today you’ll take to the road for your New Zealand Self Drive holiday, so take a look through the great selection of late model vehicles available and take your pick.

Picton to Nelson via Queen Charlotte Drive

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.

Your accommodation: Tides Hotel (was Trailways Hotel)

Centrally located within a few minutes walk of Nelson’s central shopping precinct, theatres, restaurants and cafés, the information centre, and close to the scenic waterfront. Located right on the river, many of the rooms open onto the river view. Also overlooking the river is award-winning The Tides Restaurant and Bar.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 104 kms / 65 miles : 1.6 hours

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New Zealand Grand Tour - Day 7
Nelson to Hokitika

Leaving Nelson City you will pass through the Nelson Lakes and Kahurangi National Park region. Trees, rivers and valleys accompany you now as you head towards the town of Murchison. Murchison is a quiet place and a great lunch stop. Underneath its sleepy farming facade is an adventurers paradise with white water rafting, jet boating, gold panning, kayaking, 4WD trips and excellent trout fishing.
Heading South towards Westport you will drive along the Buller Gorge, enjoy some wonderful scenery as you follow this magnificent river. Further along the river from the west coast turn off one of the must stop places is Whites Creek and New Zealand's longest swing bridge. Crossing the river you get magnificent views of the gorge and once on the other side there are short bush walks, jet boat rides and some of the historic gold mining remnants.
Continuing on your journey the first major town (by this regions standard) is Inangahua and a small museum tells of the earthquake that hit the region in 1968 leaving 70% of the buildings damaged or inhabitable. Heading south a worthwhile divert is to Cape Foulwind just south of Westport. Home to a seal colony and the short walk provides some spectacular scenery. Continuing south on the road to Punakaiki you will pass through Paparoa National Park. On arrival to Punakaiki you may want to visit Pancake rocks. Pancake rocks are open to the public free of charge all year round. These are awesome natural blow holes and rock formations, the name says it all.
Just a little further south is Greymouth, the administrative centre of the West Coast and a great attraction here is Shantytown, a replica gold mining village.
The township of Hokitika was built on the pioneering spirit of the West Coast settlers. A busy port in its heyday it then became a centre for the West Coast gold rush and more recently has become known for its Jade or Greenstone crafts. Here you will find many shops selling intricately carved pieces as well as other fine arts and souvenirs. The town itself has some great old buildings and you will also find some fine restaurants and cafes.
The windswept beach is often covered with driftwood making for an interesting stroll and the scenery to the mountains is quite spectacular with Mt. Cook very often in view. Around 15 kilometres inland you will find Lake Kaniere, an idyllic spot to take bush walks or simply relax and enjoy the bush clad hill views. Just south of the town on State Highway 6 is Lake Mahinapua Scenic Reserve where you can enjoy some short walks. The Hokitika Gorge, around 45 minutes from the centre of is a magnificent granite gorge lined with beautiful native bush. A swing bridge just 2 minutes from the car park takes you over milky blue green pools and a short walk delivers you to large moss covered boulders to explore.

Your accommodation: Beachfront Hotel Hokitika

The unique location of the Beachfront Hotel Hokitika on the shores of the Tasman Sea and in the heart of Hokitika allows you to beachcomb and shop local artisans' galleries right from your doorstep.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 333 kms / 206 miles : 4.1 hours

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New Zealand Grand Tour - Day 8
Hokitika to Franz Josef

Leaving Hokitika you’ll go through the old gold mining town of Ross where some of the original buildings and workings remain. Ross is also home to one of the few working mines left in New Zealand. Continuing South you’ll pass through Harihari, the township Guy Menzies crash landed in after he became the first person to fly solo across the Tasman. Continue on through Whataroa, a small township, home to some of the world's rarest birds - the New Zealand White Heron and the Kotuku. Arriving into the glacier region you’ll catch your first glimpse of the Franz Josef glacier before coming into the township - a lively place with a great atmosphere.

Your accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites

Punga Grove is right in the heart of Franz Josef Glacier village and offers affordable and stylish accommodation in a beautiful rainforest setting.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 133 kms / 82 miles : 1.6 hours

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New Zealand Grand Tour - Day 9
Franz Josef to Queenstown (via Wanaka)

Heading south you pass through the second glacier town of Fox Glacier before heading along the coast and more classic West Coast bush scenery. Be sure you stop at the Paringa Salmon Farm for lunch or a refreshment make sure you feed the fish, it's very impressive. At Knights Point Lookout elephant seals can often be seen basking on the sandy beaches at the far end of the point.
Crossing the massive Haast River you turn inland and head into the valley climbing through mountains littered with waterfalls.
The Haast Valley offers a spectacular view of the river and its enormous power. The Blue Pools near Makarora are a great 30-minute walk. Lakes Wanaka and Hawea guide you into the township of Wanaka before you head over New Zealand's highest sealed road, Crown Range Road before dropping into Queenstown. This drive should be planned as a whole day to really enjoy the scenery and to allow time to explore the walks, and many stops en route.

Your accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge

Blue Peaks Lodge offers well equipped self contained rooms with a fantastic location overlooking Queenstown and is just an easy five minutes walk to the Queenstown lakefront.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 344 kms / 213 miles : 4.6 hours

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New Zealand Grand Tour - Day 10
Explore Queenstown

Although celebrated as New Zealand's ‘adventure capital’ Queenstown offers far more than a fast-paced action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic and scenic wonders.
Head down the Gibbston Valley wine trail to sample some of the region’s best Pinot or catch a ride on the 100 year old Steamship the TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak Station for dinner and a farm tour. Browse the waterfront cafes and have lunch at Michelin star chef Josh Emett's ‘Rata.’ Check out nearby historic Arrowtown and enhance your experience with a four wheel drive trip to Macetown.
Take a leisurely lakeside stroll or ride the gondola for breathtaking views. Drive through Lord Of The Rings country or for the really fanatic, jump aboard one of many dedicated LOTR tours. If you do really want the adrenaline rush Queenstown is known for, take your pick from the Shotover Jet, Bungy, Canyon Swing, Zipline, Luge or Heli-ski.
Finally, if you're lucky enough to visit in winter (July-September) there are four ski resorts close by. You can head up to Coronet Peak and the Remarkables close to Queenstown, or head to Wanaka for Cardrona and Treble Cone.

Your accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge

Blue Peaks Lodge offers well equipped self contained rooms with a fantastic location overlooking Queenstown and is just an easy five minutes walk to the Queenstown lakefront.

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New Zealand Grand Tour - Day 11
Queenstown to Te Anau

Skirting the shores of Lake Wakatipu The Remarkables mountain range towers over your approach to the small township of Kingston. Cross the rolling tussock lands of Mossburn (deer capital of New Zealand) before arriving into Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park.

Your accommodation: Lakefront Lodge

Stylish self contained motel units less than one minute walk from Te Anau Lakefront. Close to shops, cafes and restaurants.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 164 kms / 102 miles : 1.9 hours

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New Zealand Grand Tour - Day 12
Te Anau to Dunedin

The drive from Te Anau to Dunedin  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 Manapouri and onto Tuatapere before Colac Bay and the fishing town of Riverton. From Invercargill the route hugs the coastline and there are many side-trips to secluded and deserted beaches and bays to explore before you arrive into the remarkable Edwardian City of Dunedin.

Your accommodation: Motel on York

Motel on York is located in the heart of Dunedin city. The property offers superior accommodation only 300 metres away from cafes and restaurants.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 285 kms / 177 miles : 3.3 hours

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New Zealand Grand Tour - Day 13
Dunedin to Christchurch

Heading north from Dunedin your first stop should be Moeraki to explore the famous and unique Moeraki Boulders strewn on the beach. 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 Christchurch then stay longer to see the blue penguins come ashore at dusk. The port town of Timaru is next and then the vast Canterbury Plains. Crossing New Zealand's longest bridge at Rakaia you can view some great examples of the South Island's famous braided rivers.  Arriving into Christchurch City puts you close to the airport and the International Antarctic Centre, a visit is highly recommended. Here you can get as close to experiencing life on the frozen continent without actually visiting plus see New Zealand little blue penguins and ride in a Haaglund Tracked vehicle.

Your accommodation: Quest on Cambridge

Quest on Cambridge serviced apartment-style hotel rooms offer guests a relaxed and comfortable Christchurch accommodation experience. Each room has an open-plan living area, a fully equipped kitchen, and natural light. Quest on Cambridge is a short walk from the south shopping center and only a short walk to the Botanic Gardens.

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 346 kms / 215 miles : 4.2 hours

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New Zealand Grand Tour - Day 14
Return your vehicle to Christchurch Airport

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

Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 7 kms / 5 miles : 0.2 hours

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