Price pp from:

$8,058
A wide-angle daytime view of the Mueller Glacier lake and moraine wall, with sunlit green and gold tussock in the foreground and snow-capped peaks under a bright, cloudy sky.

North to South Kiwi Explorer

Auckland

Christchurch

16 days, 15 nights

Road Trips

From: $8,058 pp

Overview

Begin your journey by exploring the vibrant cities of Auckland, Rotorua, and Wellington, each offering unique cultural and natural attractions. Then, embark on a breathtaking circuit of the South Island. Savor the exquisite wines of Marlborough, marvel at the majestic whales of Kaikoura, and stroll through the charming Garden City of Christchurch, all set against the backdrop of the mighty Southern Alps. Experience the thrill of Queenstown, the alpine adventure capital, before heading to the stunning West Coast Glaciers. Conclude your adventure with a scenic return to Christchurch aboard the world-famous TranzAlpine train, renowned for its spectacular views.

Highlights & inclusions

16 days / 15 nights
15 breakfasts

Auckland

Christchurch

Hotel 4 star
Rental car included
  • Hobbiton Movie Set Tour
  • Interislander Ferry Wellington to Picton
  • Whale Watch Kaikōura Ocean's Cabin

Make an enquiry about this trip or build a custom quote

Price pp from

$8,058

Why New Zealand Self Drive Tours

  • One dedicated travel specialist to plan, book, and manage your journey from first enquiry to departure.
  • We plan itineraries that work well once you’re actually here, with realistic drive times, thoughtful pacing, and the right balance of experiences.
  • 24/7 in-country support while you’re travelling, so help is close if plans change.

Trip itinerary

Welcome to Auckland

Welcome to Auckland, known in Māori as Tāmaki Makaurau. Auckland is New Zealand's vibrant "City of Sails," and the country's largest metropolitan area. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea. 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 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.

Aerial view of Auckland city skyline with bridge and harbor at sunset.

Accommodation

Modern entrance of Grand Millennium hotel with glass walls, columns, plants, and red carpet driveway.
Grand Millennium Auckland

Activities

Highlights of North to South Kiwi Explorer

Hobbit hole with a green round door, surrounded by flowers and a wooden bench outside.

Hobbiton Movie Set Tour

Ferry sailing in harbor with city and hills in the background under a cloudy sky.

Interislander Ferry Wellington to Picton

Two whale watching boats on ocean with mountain range in background under clear sky.

Whale Watch Kaikōura Ocean's Cabin

Three people using telescopes to stargaze under a starry night sky with the Milky Way visible.

Big Sky Stargazing

Two Skyline Queenstown gondola cabins travel along cables above a layer of low-lying clouds with the snow-dusted Remarkables in the background.

Queenstown Skyline Gondola Ride

Steamboat cruising on blue lake water with snowy mountains in the background on a clear day.

TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Dinner

Group hiking up a glacier with crampons and backpacks on a sunny day.

Fox Glacier Helihike

Aerial view of a KiwiRail train on a bridge over river with mountains and clouds at sunset.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch

Additional inclusions

Private Transfer Auckland Airport to your Auckland Accommodation with Tourcorp

Shared Transfer from the Christchurch Train Station to Christchurch CBD Accommodation

Private Transfer from Christchurch Accommodation to Airport

24/7 support from the moment you arrive to the moment you depart

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