Begin your New Zealand adventure in Christchurch, affectionately known as the Garden City, renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and beautiful green spaces. Today is yours to embrace the leisurely pace and explore the myriad attractions this city has to offer.
Morning
Start your day with checking in at your hotel in the heart of Christchurch. Take the morning to relax and settle in, or start exploring the city at your own pace.
Afternoon
After a day of exploration and adventure, return to the hotel for a restful evening. Christchurch's dining scene offers a variety of options, from casual eateries to fine dining, many of which focus on locally sourced ingredients.
Embark on a scenic drive from Christchurch to Queenstown, with stops at the breathtaking Lake Tekapo and the majestic Mt Cook National Park, showcasing some of the South Island's most iconic landscapes.
After breakfast, begin your journey towards Lake Tekapo, known for its vivid turquoise waters and stunning alpine backdrop. Continue your journey around the shores of Lake Pukaki, known for its intense blue color, with stunning views of Mt Cook, New Zealand's highest peak.
Make a brief stop in Twizel, a town designed in the 1960s as part of a hydroelectric project, now a gateway to outdoor adventures.
Proceed to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range.
Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, offers a day of leisure where you can indulge in outdoor activities, explore the vibrant downtown area, or simply relax and enjoy the stunning natural beauty. The highlight of the day is an enchanting evening cruise on Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship, culminating in a gourmet barbecue dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Start your day with a thrilling Skyline Luge & Gondola ride. After breakfast, head to the Skyline complex for a fun-filled morning. The Gondola ride offers panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the Remarkables mountain range. Once at the top, the luge tracks await, offering a unique and exhilarating way to descend the hill with twists, turns, and tunnels.
As the day transitions to evening, embark on a memorable cruise across Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw, affectionately known as the "Lady of the Lake.".
Following dinner, enjoy an entertaining farm show that provides insights into New Zealand's farming practices. The show includes sheep shearing demonstrations and an introduction to the farm's sheepdogs.
Enjoy a scenic journey to Arrow town, a quaint and historic gold mining town. As you wind your way past the picturesque Lake Hayes, the allure of Arrow town's rich history and charming streets await. Spend the day meandering through its vibrant cafes, unique shops, and exquisite restaurants,.The day concludes with a leisurely wine tasting session at the renowned Amisfield Vineyard and Gibston Valley Winery where you can savor the flavors of the region's exquisite wines.
Embark on a captivating exploration of Arrow town, starting with its enchanting streets lined with historic buildings that tell tales of a bygone era. Visit the Lake District Museum to rent a gold pan and try your hand at gold panning by the Arrow River. Make sure to explore the Chinese Settlement Village for a deeper understanding of the lives of the early Chinese miners.
As the afternoon unfolds, embark on a return journey towards Queenstown, stopping En route at Amisfield Vineyard and Gibston Valley Winery. These prestigious wineries offer a serene setting to relax and indulge in wine tasting, showcasing the best of Central Otago's renowned Pinot Noir and other varietals.
Embark on a breathtaking journey to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand's most iconic natural attractions, known for its sheer cliffs, towering peaks, and cascading waterfalls. This day trip offers an immersive experience into the heart of Fiordland National Park, with countless photo opportunities along the way.
After an early breakfast, begin your journey along the stunning road to Milford Sound. This route is renowned for its diverse landscapes, passing through lush farmland, dense beech forests, and the remarkable Avenue of the Disappearing Mountain, where optical illusions make the mountain appear to recede as you approach.
As you approach Milford Sound, you'll pass through the Homer Tunnel, a remarkable engineering feat that cuts through the solid rock of the Darran Mountains.
Upon arrival at Milford Sound, board a cruise to explore this magnificent 22km-long fiord. The cruise offers up-close views of the iconic Mitre Peak, rising more than a mile straight out of the sea, and the chance to see waterfalls cascading down sheer rock faces, some of which are over 1000 meters high.
Embark on an unforgettable day trip exploring the rugged beauty and coastal charm of Southland, from the iconic Bluff to the hidden gems of Cosy Nook and Gem's Beach. This adventure promises stunning scenery, cultural discoveries, and opportunities for relaxation and exploration.
Depart from Invercargill and make your way to Bluff, a historic port town nestled at the southern tip of the South Island. Visit Stirling Point, marked by the iconic signpost indicating the distance to various international destinations, and capture a photo as a souvenir of your visit.
Continue your journey to Oreti Beach, a vast expanse of coastline known for its windswept beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, breathing in the fresh sea air and soaking in the stunning views of the Southern Ocean.
Drive to Riverton, a charming coastal town steeped in maritime history and Maori culture. Explore the town's quaint shops, galleries, and cafes, and immerse yourself in the relaxed seaside ambiance. Don't miss Taramea Bay and Mitchell's Bay, where you can surf, swim, or simply watch dolphins frolic in the waves.
Journey to picturesque Cosy Nook, a secluded fishing village nestled in a sheltered bay. Explore the village and soak in the tranquil coastal scenery before heading to nearby Monkey Island for panoramic views of the rugged coastline and surrounding ocean.
Conclude your coastal exploration with a visit to Gem's Beach, renowned for its scenic beauty and pristine sands. Take a moment to appreciate the untouched natural surroundings and perhaps dip your toes in the crystal-clear waters.
Embark on a scenic self-drive adventure from the picturesque Catlins region to the vibrant city of Dunedin. Your day will be filled with exploration along the stunning Catlins Coastal Heritage Trail, featuring natural wonders, rugged coastlines, and historic landmarks. The rest of your day is at leisure as you travel to Dunedin for your 1-night accommodation.
Begin your day with a detailed self-drive itinerary provided for the Catlins Coastal Heritage Trail. This trail winds through some of the most breathtaking coastal landscapes in New Zealand, offering opportunities to explore hidden beaches, coastal cliffs, and lush forests.
If timing allows and the tide is low, make a stop at Cathedral Caves, a natural wonder formed by sea erosion. Marvel at the towering arches and cathedral-like interior of these impressive caves.
After a morning of exploration in the Catlins, enjoy a leisurely drive to Dunedin, soaking in the scenic beauty of the coastal landscapes and rolling hills along the way.
Check into the Hotel in Dunedin, your accommodation for the night. Take some time to unwind and relax after your drive, perhaps exploring the city's vibrant downtown area or enjoying a stroll through one of Dunedin's beautiful parks.
Embark on a scenic drive from Dunedin to Christchurch, tracing the footsteps of Scottish immigrants and uncovering the natural wonders of New Zealand's South Island. Along the way, immerse yourself in Dunedin's rich cultural heritage before traversing the picturesque landscapes of the Southern Scenic Route.
Begin your day in Dunedin, known for its strong Scottish influence and impressive architecture reminiscent of Edinburgh. Explore museums such as the Toitu Otago Settlers Museum, offering insights into the city's pioneering past, and the Otago Museum, showcasing natural and cultural history.
Hit the road and travel northward from Dunedin to Christchurch via the Southern Scenic Route. As you drive, soak in the breathtaking coastal scenery and pass by iconic landmarks such as the Moeraki Boulders, large spherical rock formations scattered along Koekohe Beach.
Your journey continues with a captivating drive to Arthur's Pass National Park. Accessible via the iconic Castle Hill, the area is globally renowned for bouldering and its breathtaking natural beauty amidst the Southern Alps. Famous for its appearance in "The Chronicles of Narnia," Arthur's Pass offers a blend of adventure and scenic tranquility.
Begin your day at Castle Hill, marveling at the limestone rock formations that have earned worldwide acclaim among bouldering enthusiasts. The natural sculptures set against the backdrop of the Southern Alps create a surreal landscape, perfect for photography and exploration. Proceed to the Arthur's Pass Visitor Centre to gather insights into the best trails and local flora and fauna.
As you approach Arthur's Pass, prepare to be mesmerized by its natural beauty and abundant scenery. The village serves as an ideal base for outdoor adventures, with a range of hiking trails to explore.
Upon arrival, embark on the popular Devil’s Punchbowl Walk, a short trail that leads to an impressive waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture the stunning views and cascading waters.
Embark on a picturesque drive to Banks Peninsula, where the stunning landscapes of rolling hills and coastal vistas await. Your destination, Akaroa, is a quaint town renowned for its French heritage, nestled in the heart of an ancient volcanic crater. Here, you'll immerse yourself in the charm of rural New Zealand, from its historic streets to the vibrant marine life in the harbor.
Your day begins with a scenic drive through the breathtaking countryside of Banks Peninsula. Upon arrival in Akaroa, take a leisurely stroll through the town, soaking in the serene atmosphere and marveling at the well-preserved colonial architecture. Visit the local cafés for a taste of the region's culinary delights, and don't miss the opportunity to learn about the area's rich history at the Akaroa Museum.
In the afternoon, embark on the Akaroa Dolphin Watching Tour, a highlight of your visit. This eco-friendly cruise offers a unique opportunity to spot the Hector's Dolphin, the world's smallest and rarest dolphin, in its natural habitat. The tour also provides chances to see other marine life, including blue penguins and New Zealand fur seals.
