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15 Day South Island Self Discovery

Christchurch Christchurch
Duration: 15 Days
Scale: 1 - 10 people
From: Christchurch
To: Christchurch
Categories: Self Drive Tours
Transportations: Car

 

15 Day South Island Self Discovery

Explore the South Island of New Zealand at your own pace in this 15 day self drive tour starting and ending in Christchurch.

The amount of national parks you'll visit are bewildering. From New Zealand's tallest mountain in Mt Cook National Park, to the remote wilderness in Fiordland National Park, the wild and rugged West Coast and coastal paradise of Abel Tasman National Park, the dramatic scenery is ever changing on this tour.  You'll meet marine wildlife, have exhilarating adventures and marvel at the breathtaking scenery.

 


Highlights 

 Abel Tasman National Park Hiking

Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound

Franz Josef Heli Hike

Punakaiki Pancake Rocks

Kaikoura Kayaking

Mt Cook National Park

  

Regions Visited

 
 
 

Itinerary Map

Explore the South Island of New Zealand at your own pace in this 15 day self drive tour starting and ending in Christchurch.


Terms and Conditions

Prices are based on twin share occupancy in a double room, and are subject to availability. If anything comes back unavailable, we will endeavor to find you a suitable alternative. 

Click here for the full

  

  • Day 1 : Christchurch

    Welcome to Christchurch. On arrival you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to your first night’s accommodation. Or if you’ve decided to pick up your rental vehicle immediately, you pick up your vehicle at the airport and drive to your accommodation.

    Your detailed tour information pack will be given to you once you arrive at your accommodation.

    Take the rest of the day to relax and explore the inner city, with its famous botanic gardens. The city has bounced back from the devastating 2010 earthquake and is once again a very vibrant place. 

     

    Stay at your accommodation of choice:  

  • Day 2 : Christchurch - Mt. Cook

    Once you've collected your car first thing in the morning (in case you don't already have it), your self drive tour around the South Island of New Zealand can commence, as you'll cross the expansive Canterbury plains on your way to Mt Cook. The route via Geraldine is the more scenic option, just before entering McKenzie Country. The Southern Alps seem to be ever increasing in size as you approach closer, and leaving a bigger impression as you carry on.

    Lake Tekapo will leave you dazzled with its remarkable turquoise coloured water against the backdrop of the Southern Alps. The picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd is a great place for great photo opportunities, but please note that photos are not allowed inside the church.

    Once you arrive at Lake Pukaki, Mt Cook dominates the landscape, and how! It will leave a memorable impression, and the drive along the lake with its green and turquoise water is nothing but spectacular. This is New Zealand driving at its best!

    We recommend you do one of the hikes in the Aoraki National Park.

     

    Stay at your accommodation of choice:  

     

    Driving distance : 333 km - Driving time : approximately 4 hrs 12 mins

     

  • Day 3 : Mt. Cook - Queenstown

     

    As the road takes you further south, you will cross the the Lindis Pass, one of the highest roads in New Zealand. The contrast in scenery will be noticeable as you leave the McKenzie Country and enter Otago.  

    Wanaka town is nestled below towering mountains, and is a little bit quieter than its neighbour Queenstown. In winters skiers from all over the world flock here for its great skiing, and in summer the impressive mountains provide for a range of adventure activities. You will return to this beautiful town in a few days, but your journey continues to the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown!

    Queenstown is synonymous with adventure, and often labelled the "adventure capital of the world". Regardless of the season, Queenstown gets your adrenaline flowing year round, and the options are endless. Want to throw yourself out of a plane in amazing scenery, jump off a bridge in the birthplace of Bungy, jetboat, raft down a river, you name it...Queenstown has it all. 

    The afternoon is yours to enjoy. Let us know if you would like us to book one of the numerous adventure activities.

     

    Stay at your accommodation of choice:  

     

    Driving distance : 264 km - Driving time : approximately  3 hrs 17 mins

     

  • Day 4 : Queenstown

    Queenstown is a place with so many things to do, so you'll stay here for an additional day. In the morning we've included the exciting Dart River Wilderness Jet Experience, deep in the Mt Aspiring National Park wilderness. The drive to Glenorchy alone will already leave you in awe. It is one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand.

    As appetites differ from person to person, just let us know if you would like to do something else during this day that we can help you with.

     

    Stay at your accommodation of choice:  

    Activity : Dart River Wilderness Jet

  • Day 5: Queenstown - Milford Sound - Ta Anau

     

    Visit Milford Sound today and experience a world of cascading waterfalls, sheer rock faces and dense rainforest. Your journey along the shores of Lake Wakatipu takes you further south to Te Anau first. You will travel along the Milford Road – one of the world's most scenic roads – and through the Homer Tunnel, before arriving for your Milford Sound cruise. Enjoy striking views of iconic Mitre Peak from the head of the Sound – it rises 1,692 metres from the south shore and is named for its resemblance to a bishop’s mitre.

    The pristine Milford Sound is part of the World Heritage Fiordland National Park, in the south west of the South Island, and is famed for its pristine natural beauty and remote atmosphere. It is New Zealand’s best known fiord and the only one that can be reached by road. The fiord extends 15km inland from the wild Tasman Sea and is regularly visited by wildlife including penguins, seals and dolphins.

    You will return to Te Anau where you will spend the night.

     

    Stay at your accommodation of choice:   

     

    Driving distance : 173 km   - Driving time : approximately 2 hours 10 mins

    Driving Te Anau - Milford Sound : 118 km   - Driving time : approximately 1 hour 45 mins 

     

     

  • Day 6 : Te Anau - Wanaka

    Your journey will take you to Wanaka today via Queenstown and over the Crown Range. Relax by the waterfront, pay a visit to Puzzling world or the War Birds and weels, ro do one of the many great short day hikes in the area.

    The Roys Peak Track - a NZ must do - will give you magnificent views of Wanaka, the lake and Southern Alps. The Rob Roy Glacier Track half day walk leads you into Mount Aspiring National Park, an amazing world of mountains, glaciers, river valleys and alpine lakes. The Mt Iron Track is one of Wanaka's most popular short walks with spectacular views over the lake and surrounding mountains. 

     

    Stay at your accommodation of choice:  

     

    Driving distance : 226 km   - Driving time : approximately 2 hours 55 mins

     

  • Day 7 : Wanaka - Franz Josef

    Passing through a number of national parks today, the road from Wanaka to Frans Josef and Haast winds its way along Lake Hawea first, then through majestic Mt Aspiring National Park, until you reach the town of Haast on the West Coast, which is located in the heart of Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area. The road between Haast and Frans Josef continues along the rugged West Coast with lush native bush and rainforest.

    From Frans Josef township you'll have a number of options to explore the extraordinary glaciers.

     

    Stay at your accommodation of choice:  

     

    Driving distance : 286 km - Driving time :  approximately  3 hrs 40 mins

     

     

  • Day 9 : Franz Josef - Punakaiki

    Westland National Park and its glaciers is an area of magnificent primeval vistas – snow-capped mountains, glaciers, forests, tussock grasslands, lakes, rivers, wetlands and beaches.

    And you'll have the best view of all today, from a helicopter. After a thrilling flight, high above the rugged terrain, you will land on the glacier, ready to undertake a three hour guided heli hike. Your friendly guide will lead you through some of the most pristine and awe-inspiring glacier scenery in the world.

    You'll continue northbound in the afternoon along the coast. The seaside town of Hokitika is a place to appreciate the fascinating history of the west coast. The Arahura River, which enters the sea just north of Hokitika, is a traditional source of pounamu (greenstone). There are a number of jewelry stores selling greenstone in town, and are well worth a look.

    Your final destination will be Punakaiki in the smallest national park of New Zealand, Paparoa National Park, known for its famous pancake rocks, where columns of water shoot skyward from rocks that resemble giant stacks of hotcakes. 

     

    Stay at your accommodation of choice:  

     

    Driving distance : 217 km - Driving time : approximately  : 2 hrs 55 mins  

  • Day 10 : Punakaiki - Nelson

    The scenery changes dramatically driving through the Buller Gorge on the way to Nelson today. Once past the gorge a recommended side trip and stop is  Lake Rotoroa in the Nelson Lakes National Park.

    Nelson, the sunniest place in New Zealand, will be your base for your next adventure tomorrow.

     

    Stay at your accommodation of choice:  

     

    Driving distance : 286 km - Driving time approximately  : 3 hrs 47 mins 

  • Day 11-12-13 : Abel Tasman National Park

     

    Abel Tasman National Park is renowned for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and its world-famous coast track. For the next 3 days you will be walking the most beautiful sections of this track .

    Read here for more details about your journey into this coastal paradise  Abel Tasman Unguided trekking 3 Day Guided trip.

    At the end of your hiking adventure, you will be dropped off at your Nelson accommodation again.

     

  • Day 14 :Abel Tasman National Park - Hanmer Springs

    You'll be travelling to the picturesque alpine village of Hanmer Springs today,  best known for its natural hot pools and stunning landscapes. The town is an attractive year-round holiday destination for adventure, relaxation and indulgence. Surrounded by dramatic mountains and towering forests, this charming town has a main street filled with boutique shops, cafes and eateries.

     

    Stay at your accommodation of choice:  

     

    Driving distance : 300 km -  Driving time : approximately : 3 hrs 55 mins

  • Day 13 : Hanmer Springs - Kaikoura

     

    It's not a long drive to Kaikoura today, a picturesque coastal town and the perfect place for marine life encounters, coastal walks, and tucking into a plate of crayfish. Kaikoura's environment is truly spectacular – the village is caught between the rugged Seaward Kaikoura Range and the Pacific Ocean. In winter the mountains are covered with snow, adding to the drama of the landscape.

    Get up close and personal with the abundance of marine wildlife from the water on an amazing evening kayaking trip Kaikoura Kayaks Sunset Evening Classic 

    Stay at your accommodation of choice:  

     

    Driving distance : 130 km Driving time :  approximately 1 hrs 54 mins

  • Day 15 : Kaikoura - Christchurch

     

    Your tour ends today when you return to Christchurch on an easy 2 hour drive.

     

    Driving distance : 203 km Driving time :  approximately 2 hrs 57 mins 

     

  •  

ENQUIRE NOW HERE
From / per person

NZD4,175.00

Booking
Total:
NZD4,175.00
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Important information
  • Complimentary airport transfers
  • Detailed tour pack upon arrival of first night's accommodation.
  • 15 day car rental with unlimited daily kilometers
  • Standard insurance with zero excess reduction option.
  • 14 Nights Accommodation.
  • Dart River Wilderness Experience.
  • Queenstown Kiwi Bird Life Park entrance fee.
  • Milford Sound Cruise.
  • Franz Josef Heli Hike.
  • Abel Tasman Guided trekking3 Day Guided trip.
  • Kaikoura Kayaks Sunset Evening Classic.

  • Where the date of cancellation is a date 45 days or more before the start of the tour, the cancellation fee will be equivalent to the deposit paid
  • Where the date of cancellation is a date 30 to 45 days before the start of the tour the cancellation fee shall be 25% of the contract price
  • Where the date of cancellation is a date 7 to 30 days before the start of the tour the cancellation fee shall be 50% of the contract price
  • Where the date of cancellation is a date 7 days or less before the start of the tour the cancellation fee shall be 100% of the contract price

Start planning and create your own custom New Zealand itinerary here:

Taranaki

 

 

Taranaki might be a slightly less known region in New Zealand, unless you're a keen surfer or windsurfer. The landscape is dominated by the perfectly shaped volcanic cone which is Mt Taranaki, or Mt Egmont. At 2500m not only does it entirely dominate the landscape, but it also creates its own climate. On any given day, the winds may be reaching gale force on one side of the mountain, while on the other side you may be relaxing on the beach without a sigh of wind, such is the impact of the mountain.

In winter you may ski down the mountain in the morning, and in summer there are a number of excellent hiking opportunities, including hikes to the summit or right around the mountain.

Surf Highway 45 offers word class surf and windsurfing conditions and the black iron sandy beaches are wild and beautiful and aplenty.

 

Marlborough

 

When travelling from the North Island to the South Island on the Interislander ferry, the sheltered waterways of the Marlborough Sounds are the first sight. Picton is the destination port, and a good base to go walking, fishing, sailing, kayaking and exploring the many secluded bays in the Sounds. 

The Marlborough region is internationally recognized for its world class wine, most notably its Sauvignon Blanc, and there are many different ways to sample these wines as their are many wineries offering excellent wine tours. By bike, or by luxury old timer cars, the creativity with which these tours are organized is brilliant. The seafood in this region is also sumptuous, great to combine with a glass of the local wines.

Those put off by the large crowds on the Abel Tasman Track will love the Queen Charlotte Track. The beaches are a little less exquisite, but the coastal scenery is still stunning and there are many accommodation options aolong the track.

Kaikoura

 

Kaikoura is a unique place by the sea where marine wildlife lives in abundance, against the backdrop of the impressive Kaikoura mountain ranges. It is well known for its range of eco-tourism activities and getting up close with the main inhabitant along its shores, the giant Sperm Whale.

Whale watching in Kaikoura is simply a must-do as you're guaranteed to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, and along the way you're most likely to see a pod of bottlenose or duksy dolphins play in the water, be impressed by the take-off and water landing of the Royal Albatross, and see a bunch of sea lions lazing about on a rock, suc is the diversity.

The ocean here also provides some spectacular seafood, and a stay in Kaikoura may not go by without having tried the crayfish


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Millenniumm Queenstown

 Image result for millennium queenstown

Right in the heart of the action, Millennium Hotel Queenstown is just minutes from Queenstown central shopping, entertainment and outdoor activities such as bungy jumping, white water rafting and jet boating. The popular ski destinations of Coronet Peak, Remakables, and Cardrona are also close by. 

This luxury hotel also offers accessible rooms for special needs guests with their friendly staff on hand to assist you anytime. Most of this accommodation also offers scenic views of Queenstown city and mountains, providing the perfect backdrop to your trip. Millennium Hotel Queenstown is a 4-star plus and Enviro-Gold Qualmark rated hotel, with an Environmental Sustainability Plan for the future. 

Citylife Wellington (Heritage)

 Image result for citylife wellington

Wellington prides itself on being not only the country’s capital, but also its cultural capital – and there’s no better place to soak up the atmosphere than CityLife Wellington, with hotel accommodation located right in the heart of the city. Situated on Lambton Quay, you’ll find the best shopping, tourist attractions and cultural landmarks all within easy walking distance.

When you want a breather, the hotel offers plenty of ways to make the most of your downtime. Enjoy a hotel experience unlike other Wellington hotels.

Whether you’re seeking Wellington accommodation for work, rest or play, our spacious rooms offer you the comforts of home - with the added benefits of housekeeping and room service.

Offering a range of one and two bedroom serviced apartments, After an exciting day of sightseeing or business, you can now enjoy an even better night's sleep with extra comfy beds in all rooms.

 

Rutherford Nelson (Heritage)

 Image result for rutherford nelson a heritage hotel

Whether you’re visiting our incredible region for business or pleasure, Rutherford Hotel Nelson is the obvious choice for luxury accommodation in Nelson.

Rutherford Hotel Nelson is Nelson’s only 24-hour fully-serviced hotel, offering luxurious rooms and suites – ideal for corporate travelers, families and conference delegates. The central location means Nelson’s many galleries and City attractions are just a stone’s throw away. All rooms have a view of the harbour, city, historic South Street or Nelson’s beautiful cathedral.

The stylish accommodation will suit anyone looking for a great place to stay in Nelson, whether you’re here on holiday, in town for a wedding or visiting Nelson for a conference. 

 

Distinction Hotel Lake Te Anau

 

Get away from it all, and escape into the serene surroundings of Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Lake Te Anau before heading out to explore the world-famous beauty of Fiordland including Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. With its range of modern hotel accommodation options, 2 on-site restaurants, FREE unlimited WiFi, complimentary guest car parking and an excellent standard of service, the team at Distinction Luxmore Hotel will make your stay in Te Anau comfortable and enjoyable.
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Conveniently located in the heart of Te Anau's town shopping centre and a short stroll from Lake Te Anau, the South Island's largest lake and launching pad for many water based activities. The 180 room Distinction Luxmore Hotel offers guests a wide range of modern, refurbished hotel accommodation.

Alpine Resort Wanaka (Distinction)

 Image result for alpine resort wanaka


Distinction Wanaka Alpine Resort is nestled in a quiet Lake Wanaka location and guests can enjoy access to the resort facilities whilst staying in the serviced apartments. The stylish, self-contained, serviced apartments each provide a high level of personal comfort and convenience, perfect for all seasons.

They offer a fully equipped kitchen, televisions with 50+ channels of SKY channels, free WiFi, under-floor heating in the bathrooms, private & secure car garages, perfect for storing additional equipment such as skis and bikes. Enquire about daily, weekly and longer term servicing options..

Scenic Hotel Napier

 Image result for scenic hotel napier

We invite you to enjoy quality 4-star hotel accommodation of an international standard. From the moment you step into our spacious, light-filled lobby, you will experience our commitment to quality and customer service. If you fancy waking up to serene ocean views, Scenic Hotel Te Pania is the perfect place to start your day in Hawke’s Bay. Simply leave the curtains open, roll over in bed, and soak it all in. 

Hawke's Bay is one of the first places in the world to see the light each day, with Napier hotel enjoying a premium waterfront location on Napier's Marine Parade. The hotel’s slender curved form echoes the shape of the bay and guests are treated to sweeping views out over the water. A fresh, contemporary style hotel, Scenic Hotel Te Pania is just a short stroll from Napier’s main art deco style street and is located in close proximity to many of Napier's attractions..

 

Scenic Franz Josef

 Image result for scenic hotel franz josef

In the heart of the village and edge of the Westland World Heritage Park, the Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier is only a breath away from the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier. 

This hotel offers everything you need to be able to explore this dramatic region in style and comfort. With an exceptional restaurant, serving hearty, West Coast fare, and the Moa Bar with its open fireplace, you are never without choice. Plus, with the private hot pools and our Amaia Luxury Spa close by, you can enjoy time out to rejuvenate after a day taking in the many walking tracks and other outdoor pursuits. 

Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel, plus a guest information and booking service will ensure that you can make the most of every minute you spend in the Westland region.

 

Funyaks + Jet Boat

  Image result for funyak + jet boat queenstown

This day in and around Queenstown takes you deep into "Paradise", near Glenorchy in Mt Aspiring National Park.

An unmissable experience with the exhilaration of a wilderness jet boat ride combined with a leisurely downstream float on easy to use Funyaks (inflatable kayaks) awaits you. This trip is a must-do to explore the truly unique Dart River. Your amazing journey begins with an exhilarating jet boat ride up the Dart River deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mt Aspiring National Park. From here you’ll then travel back down river at your own pace in our unique Funyaks exploring pristine waters as they flow from the Southern Alps to Lake Wakatipu, hidden side streams with amazing rock pools and dramatic chasms.
Just when you think your Funyaks adventure is over, you will enjoy a gourmet buffet lunch before heading via 4 wheel drive coach to locations used in the movies to illustrate Middle Earth from ‘Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’.

Peppers Bluewater Resort - Lake Tekapo

 Image result for peppers bluewater resort

Near the shores of Lake Tekapo, in the heart of Mackenzie Country in New Zealand’s central South Island, is Peppers Bluewater Resort. Overlooking Lake Tekapo this resort is located in an intensely beautiful part of the world.

Peppers Bluewater Resort is set amongst the purest natural landscape. Romantic and secluded, your accommodation in Lake Tekapo reflects the beautiful landscape surrounding you.

You can explore the natural wonders of Mount Cook and the Mackenzie region from here. Marvel at an International Dark Sky Reserve with millions of stars. Ride horses through the mountains, catch a scenic flight to Franz Josef glacier, go skiing, or immerse yourself in the Tekapo Springs Day Spa and Hot Pools.

Glacial Day Spa

Experience total relaxation and rejuvenation at the day spa with a full range of treatments designed to enhance and maintain your health and beauty. Each of the 4 therapy rooms features beautiful views of the hot pools, Lake Tekapo and the mountain ranges. 

Treat yourself to the healing benefits of massage in the beautiful, calm space of our Glacial Day Spa. Our expert staff are skilled in a wide range of treatments designed to revitalise the body and recharge the mind.

Massage has many benefits which include a boosted immune system, reduced pain and inflammation, improved sleep, increased flexibility and range of motion as well as enhanced wellbeing by reducing anxiety, stress and depression.

Waikato

The Waikato is the fourth largest region in New Zealand, covering 25,000 square kilometres. It stretches from the Bombay Hills and Port Waikato in the north down to the Kaimai Ranges and Mt Ruapehu in the south, and from Mokau on the west coast across to the Coromandel Peninsula in the east. The region has 1,138 km of coastline.

Punakaiki

Punakaiki is a small community on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand, between Westport and Greymouth. The community lies on the edge of the Paparoa National Park. The Pancake Rocks are a very popular tourist destination at Dolomite Point south of the main village.