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 cultural capital 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.
North & South Island Self Drive
This suggested tour costs from NZD$7,045 per person (twin share, low season)
Starts in Auckland, finishes in Christchurch
14 days/13 nights
Boutique Lodges & Hotels
Rental car included
Viewed 23 times in the last 7 days
Day 1: Welcome to Auckland, transfer to your accommodation and rest of day at leisure
Accommodation: Fable Auckland
Day 2: Collect your rental car then head south to the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula and onto Whangamata
Accommodation: Brenton Lodge
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 278 kms / 172 miles : 4.1 hours
Day 3: Travel to the Maori cultural capital of Rotorua
Accommodation: Pullman Rotorua
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 138 kms / 86 miles : 2.0 hours
Day 4: Rotorua to Taupo to Napier
Accommodation: Art Deco Masonic Hotel
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 210 kms / 131 miles : 2.4 hours
Day 5: Napier to Wellington
Accommodation: Naumi Hotel 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: Pihopa Retreat
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 104 kms / 65 miles : 1.6 hours
Day 7: Head down the coast to Hokitika
Accommodation: Rimu Lodge
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 333 kms / 206 miles : 4.1 hours
Day 8: Hokitika to Franz Josef, Glacier Country
Accommodation: Westwood Lodge
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: Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 344 kms / 213 miles : 4.6 hours
Day 10: A full day to explore Queenstown
Accommodation: Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
Day 11: Follw the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park
Accommodation: Fiordland 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: Camp Estate at Larnach Castle
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 285 kms / 177 miles : 3.3 hours
Day 13: Follw the coast north and onto Christchurch City
Accommodation: The Classic Villa
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
You will be met at the Auckland airport by the driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation.
Kia ora! Welcome to Auckland, known in Māori as Tāmaki Makaurau is New Zealand's vibrant "City of Sails," and the country's largest metropolitan area. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, it offers something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches, Auckland is a haven for both adventurers and urban explorers. Wander through world-class museums and galleries in the city centre or enjoy a peaceful retreat at the Auckland Gardens, where stunning landscapes showcase New Zealand's diverse flora. Stroll along the lively waterfront to savour fresh seafood and international cuisine at the Viaduct restaurants. For an unforgettable perspective, ascend the iconic SkyTower, New Zealand's tallest structure, and take in panoramic views of the city and its picturesque islands.
Explore worlds of horror, sci-fi and fantasy in the making. An exciting, realistic, and authentic experience, with three fully developed and original film concepts: A nail-biting horror Fauna, a fantasy epic Age of the Ever-Clan, and the mind-bending sci-fi Origins.
A 90-minute guided experience through fully themed environments, including immersive horror, fantasy, and sci-fi story worlds. Be immersed by a specially-created unique sweeping cinematic soundtrack, animatronic creatures, physical and digital interactives, hyper-realistic sculpted giants and characters, a horror house experience, and much more.
See what it takes to make, shape and be an All Black. Experience first-hand the excitement and emotion of game day. Discover the stories behind some of world rugby’s most famous players, moments and matches.
This guided experience introduces you to the game of rugby before being lead through state-of-the-art displays combining sound, images, interactive technology and hands-on activities. Discover New Zealand’s deep passion for our national sport, experience the full force of the All Blacks haka, tackle interactive zones where you can try out your kicking, catching, line-out and accuracy skills against legendary All Blacks.
Your accommodation: Fable Auckland
Located right on Queen Street the Fable Auckland is boutique and stylish property with an ideal location to enjoy and explore the vibrant heart of the 'City of Sails'.Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range. From compact economy, hatchbacks to prestige SUVs. See the most popular range here.
First time driving in New Zealand? Check out our hot tips for a safe and successful self drive experience on our roads.
As you leave the Auckland boundary the landscape changes to lush farmland. You'll cross the fertile Hauraki Plains - one of New Zealand's largest dairy producing regions. Pass the Thames Estuary, a haven for wildlife and shore birds.Take a short detour to nearby Miranda (well sign posted) to see the large flocks of godwits and oystercatchers. Arriving into the old gold mining town of Thames, there are two different routes to the east coast of the Coromandel. Directly over the Coromandel Ranges will deliver you to the coast in a snappy 45 minutes or if you're after more leisurely route, head North to the Coromandel Township along the Pōhutukawa Coast (part of the Pacific Coast Highway). This is one of the most spectacular drives in the region and not to be missed. Continue down the coast to arrive in the picturesque town of Whitianga.
Just south of Whitianga is probably one of the best known locations on the Coromandel Peninsula; the famous Hot Water Beach and the holiday town of Hahei. Popular with locals and Kiwi holiday makers for decades the beach also attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year who choose their spot in the sand, dig a hole and enjoy the naturally heated waters in the own private hot pool - with of course the best view in the country. If this sounds like you, check the tide times and plan the short detour from the main highway. Also worthy of a detour is Cathedral Cove. This popular walk and is well worth the effort to view the massive limestone formation aptly named on the golden sand beach. Tairua is just a hop down the coast and first stop should be Paku Hill (the extinct volcanic cone) which offers spectacular views over the natural harbour and the Pacific Ocean. Just a short drive from Tairua you reach the holiday destination of Whangamata, popular with locals for the great conditions for water sports, particularly surfing.
Your accommodation: Brenton Lodge
Set in beautifully landscaped grounds, Brenton Lodge offers a relaxing escape near the Coromandel seaside holiday destination of Whangamata. With just 3 suites, you’ll enjoy peace and privacy during your stay.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 278 kms / 172 miles : 4.1 hours
Heading south from the Coromandel Peninsula you pass through old mining town of Waihi, which still has an operating open cast gold mine and you can view the workings of the Martha Mine from a vantage point signposted from the town centre. For rail enthusiasts the Goldfields Railway operates passenger trains along a scenic and historic section of track towards Waikino. Continue along the rich fruit growing coastline towards the port town of Tauranga and the surf beaches of Mt Maunganui and Papamoa before you head inland 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 Hobbiton. Arriving into Rotorua from the north you are welcomed with some great views of the lake.
Your accommodation: Pullman Rotorua
Pullman Rotorua is surrounded by surreal scenery and iconic attractions. Discover shooting geysers, bubbling mud, natural hot springs and magical forests.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 138 kms / 86 miles : 2.0 hours
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 Taupō and marvel at the lake, a giant crater formed following a volcanic eruption in the year 180 CE. As you approach the town, 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 at the base of the falls. Leaving Taupō, follow the road as it climbs the rugged Ahimanawa Range before descending back down the Pacific Coast to art deco coastal township of Napier.
The National Aquarium of New Zealand stretches along Napier’s Marine Parade. It's home to a wide range of saltwater, freshwater, and land animal exhibits from New Zealand and around the world. Experience, stingrays, living coral, a huge range of fish species, and native wildlife. Visit Penguin Cove and watch the little penguins swim, feed and play. Spot New Zealand native wildlife including the Kiwi and Tuatara.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a spectacular showcase of New Zealand’s colourful and unique geothermal elements sculpted by thousands of years of volcanic activity. You will be introduced to a diversely different natural landscape, extending over 18-sq. km. Enjoy viewing the 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 where a daily eruption happens of up to 20 metres.
Your accommodation: Art Deco Masonic Hotel
The Art Deco Masonic Hotel occupies a significant historic building on Napier’s waterfront and has been richly refurbished in keeping with the Art Deco architecture. With its central location and decadent décor, this is the best place to experience what Napier is famous for.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 210 kms / 131 miles : 2.4 hours
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 Remutaka Range and along the magnificent natural harbour that the capital city of Wellington sits upon.
The National Aquarium of New Zealand stretches along Napier’s Marine Parade. It's home to a wide range of saltwater, freshwater, and land animal exhibits from New Zealand and around the world. Native Icon Guided Tour focuses on wonderful native icons including the Kiwi and Tuatara. It gives you the chance to view Kiwi in the wonderful nocturnal house where day turns into night. You will take a close look at Kiwi eggs, and learn about their quirky habits, favorite meals, and more. Tuatara can be tricky to spot - your guide will uncover the mysteries of New Zealand's 'living fossil' and then introduce you to the famous Little Penguins along with some of our other residents.
Your accommodation: Naumi Hotel Wellington
Naumi Studio Wellington, an iconic heritage landmark in the heart of the Cuba Street precinct. After an extensive renovation, this 116-room property has transformed into visual feast for the senses, enthralling guests with eclectic spaces inspired from seafaring, the library world and enduring love.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 322 kms / 200 miles : 4.1 hours
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 the ferry passes 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 Kaikōura 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 the cruise travels through Queen Charlotte Sound before coming to an end in the picturesque town of Picton.
Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range. From compact economy, hatchbacks to prestige SUVs. See the most popular range here.
First time driving in New Zealand? Check out our hot tips for a safe and successful self drive experience on our roads.
The Queen Charlotte Drive follows 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 drive 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 being the Pelorus Bridge 30 minute Loop through Beech, Rimu and Totara forest to the swing-bridge.
Departing Pelorus Bridge following the windy roads with view looking over Cable Bay and the Bryant Range until you arrive onto Tasman Bay and the city of Nelson.
Your accommodation: Pihopa Retreat
Relax in style at this historical boutique retreat. Pihopa Retreat encompasses park-like gardens with six premium suites, creating a comfortable home away from home feel for your stay. The Pihopa property has 5.5. acres of peaceful gardens, a heated swimming pool and large spacious areas to create a truly relaxing visit.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 104 kms / 65 miles : 1.6 hours
Leaving Nelson 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, we can recommend a stop at Beechwoods Cafe. Heading South towards Westport you will drive along the Buller Gorge, enjoy some wonderful scenery as you follow this magnificent river. 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. 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. Follow the coastal road to Punakaiki where you may want to visit Pancake rocks. These are awesome natural blow holes and rock formations, the name says it all.
The next township you'll pass is Greymouth, home to a great attraction here is Shantytown, a replica gold mining village and the TranzAlpine Scenic Train.
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 Pounamu-Greenstone carving. Here you will find many shops selling intricately carved pieces as well as other fine arts and souvenirs.
The windswept beach is often covered with driftwood making for an interesting stroll and the scenery to the mountains is quite spectacular.
Your accommodation: Rimu Lodge
Rimu Lodge is just a short drive from Hokitika, but once you arrive it feels like a world away. Set amidst New Zealand native bush each room takes advantage of the amazing West Coast views making for a relaxing retreat.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 333 kms / 206 miles : 4.1 hours
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: Westwood Lodge
Westwood is a purpose built lodge, crafted entirely from wood and exquisitely decorated throughout. The lounge is the place to meet to watch the Southern Alps turn a soft pink in the setting sun.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 133 kms / 82 miles : 1.6 hours
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: Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
Queenstown Park Hotel is a boutique hotel with a modern romantic style in the heart of New Zealand’s adventure capital. Set in peaceful parkland, savour views of Queenstown’s majestic mountains. Enjoy easy access to the vibrant town centre where shopping, cafes and nightlife nestled on the shores of spectacular Lake Wakatipu.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 344 kms / 213 miles : 4.6 hours
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: Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
Queenstown Park Hotel is a boutique hotel with a modern romantic style in the heart of New Zealand’s adventure capital. Set in peaceful parkland, savour views of Queenstown’s majestic mountains. Enjoy easy access to the vibrant town centre where shopping, cafes and nightlife nestled on the shores of spectacular Lake Wakatipu.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: Fiordland Lodge
Set in a World Heritage area Fiordland Lodge offers the discerning traveller comfort and privacy. The elegance and splendour of the Lodge is mirrored in the breathtaking views of Lake Te Anau and Fiordland. Private and serene, the Lodge is perfect for relaxation, or as a base for your Fiordland experience.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 164 kms / 102 miles : 1.9 hours
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.
Keeping with the historical setting of Larnach Castle, a four-course dinner is offered in a grand Castle Dining Room. This is a trust-the-chef experience where you may indulge in incredible meals and meet other guests. The menu reflects local meats and vegetables, served in a traditional New Zealand-style cuisine with the opportunity to pair with regional wines.
Your accommodation: Camp Estate at Larnach Castle
A luxurious country house built from blue stone and features a spectacular marble staircase. The modern rooms are all double glazed and the reception rooms are all heated by open fires and underfloor heating. Staying at Camp Estate includes entry to Larnach Castle and the grounds.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 285 kms / 177 miles : 3.3 hours
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: The Classic Villa
The Classic Villa is a beautifully restored Italian-style villa in the heart of Christchurch city. Located a short walk from the large open expanse of Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens, yet close to all the inner city attractions and dining.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 346 kms / 215 miles : 4.2 hours
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