Epic New Zealand self drive over 6 weeks

Itinerary in brief:

• 2 nights Auckland
• 3 nights Bay of Islands
• 1 night Castaways
• 2 nights Coromandel
• 3 nights Rotorua
• 2 nights Napier
• 2 nights Wellington
• 1 night Picton
• 3 nights Abel Tasman
• 2 nights Blenheim
• 2 nights Kaikoura
• 2 nights Christchurch
• 2 nights Fox Glacier
• 2 nights Wanaka
• 3 nights Queenstown
• 1 night Te Anau
• 1 night Doubtful Sound cruise
• 1 night Invercargill
• 2 nights Stewart Island
• 1 night Dunedin
• 1 night Oamaru
• 2 nights Lake Tekapo

Day 1: Depart UK

Depart the UK from your chosen airport.

Included: International flights

Day 2: Arrive Auckland

On arrival into Auckland, you'll head into the city, checking into your hotel for one two nights. 

Included: Transfers, 4* hotel 

Day 3: Waiheke Island 

Spend today exploring the nearby island of Waiheke. This beautiful spot combines scenic landscapes, excellent food and wineries and a relaxed atmosphere that's perfect for your first day in New Zealand. Stroll along golden beaches before visiting a local vineyard for a delicious lunch and spend the afternoon browsing small galleries, boutiques and organic olive groves. It's an easy going day where you'll learn lots about this haven near Auckland and settle into your time in New Zealand. 

Included: Waiheke Island day tour, 4* hotel 

Day 4: Drive to Bay of Islands      

This morning, you'll pick up your hire car and make your way north towards the Bay of Islands. Why not stop off in at Whangarei Falls, where you can enjoy the short walk to the waterfalls, as well as a stop at Kawakawa to view the remarkable public toilets by the late Austrian artist and architect (and resident) Frederick Hundertwasser. Arriving in Bay of Islands, you'll check into your hotel for three nights - why not head out to enjoy some local seafood for dinner?

Included: Car hire, 4* hotel 

Days 5 & 6: Bay of Islands and Cape Reinga

On your first day in the Bay of Islands, we've included a half day tour up to Cape Reinga, flying up on a fixed wing plane. Spend 45 minutes flying over Northland's spectacular harbours, passing over incredible beaches including the famous Ninety Mile Beach. From there, you'll land near Cape Reinga Lighthouse and spend a few hours enjoying a tour of the region in a minibus. Visit the lighthouse, tuck into afternoon tea on Tapotupotu Bay beach and explore the sand dunes before heading back on the plane along the opposite coastline. You'll fly over the pure white sands of Great Exhibition Bay and the Kauri Cliffs as well as the Bay of Islands region before landing back in Paihia. 

The rest of your time here is yours to enjoy the area - why not head out on a cruise to see the famous Hole in the Rock or to head out and swim with dolphins. We also really recommend a visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, where the nation's founding document was signed between the Māori chiefs and the British Crown. It's a fascinating place to discover. 

Included: Car hire, Cape Reinga half day flight tour, 4* hotel

Day 7: Drive to Castaways

Head back to south today - why not travel via Goat Island Marine Reserve? Here you can swim, snorkel, dive or even take a glass-bottomed boat to discover the abundant marine life just off the beach. Picnic at a beautiful spot at the end of the coastal walk before driving on to the wild cliffs of Karioitahi Beach on the west coast. You’ll be staying at Castaways Resort, which has ocean views and lovely chalets.

Whether you spend your time here hiking to the Manukau Heads Lighthouse, hopping aboard the Glenbrook Vintage Railway or just strolling down the beach feeling the warm, black sand beneath your feet, you’re sure to enjoy this unexpected but beautiful side trip.

Included: Car hire, 4* hotel 

Day 8: Drive to Coromandel Peninsula

After breakfast, you'll head south towards the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula. The Coromandel is full of golden beaches backed by lush forests, making it the perfect place to stop for a couple of nights to enjoy the landscapes of the North Island. Enjoy the easy drive from Auckland before checking into your hotel for two nights.

Included: Car hire, 4* hotel 

Day 9: Coromandel Peninsula

Slow down and enjoy some of the best of New Zealand's coastal scenery on the Coromandel Peninsula. Why not start at Hot Water Beach, where geothermal springs rise through the sands at low tide - grab a spade, dig yourself a little pool in the sand and let it fill with naturally heated water, for your own makeshift hot tub right on the beach. Away from the coast, there's also a lush forest interior, with lots of walking trails and quaint towns to discover throughout the region. In the afternoon you'll head to Cathedral Cove, one of the most famous beaches, to enjoy a boat trip along the shore from Hahei Beach. This beautiful stretch of coastline is best discovered from the water, with hidden bays and sea caves that are just waiting to be found along the shore. It's a dreamy way to spend the afternoon.

Included: Car hire, Cathedral Cove boat tour, 4* hotel 

Day 10: Drive to Rotorua

Leaving the Coromandel behind you, today you'll visit Hobbiton, the iconic film set from The Lord of the Rings films. Wander amongst hillsides dotted with hobbit holes, where real vegetables grow in the plots, and even enjoy a pint of cider at The Green Dragon. It's a charming and unforgettable place, whether or not you're a fan of the films.

After your visit, you'll continue on to Rotorua, where you’ll check into your hotel for two nights. Rotorua is famously geothermal town, and you'll smell the sulphur before you see the famous hot pools! We always a recommend a visit to one of the local thermal spas, where you can soak in naturally heated mineral pools and make the most of Rotorua’s unique geothermal landscape.

Included: Car hire, Hobbiton tour, 4* hotel 

Days 11 & 12: Rotorua

You've got a couple of days to explore Rotorua and the surrounding area and there is so much to see here! Rotorua is one of the best places in New Zealand to experience the geothermal landscapes - make sure you visit Wai-o-Tapu Thermal Wonderland to explore the bubbling mud pools, the shocking orange Champagne Pool and the incredible other hot springs here. Another must do experience is a visit to Te Puia, a centre of Maori art with lots of geothermal activity on its grounds. Here, you can wait for the geyser to erupt before exploring the cultural centre, where you can see traditional Maori architecture and learn about traditional life.

We've included a brilliant ziplining experience, where you'll soar through the native forest on a series of ziplines and bridges, learning about the trees and birds around you as you enjoy the thrilling ride through the canopy. Then, on your final evening in Rotorua, we've included an evening of Maori culture. Starting with a haka at the edge of the village, you will be welcomed in to experience Maori crafts and dancing. You'll even learn to do the haka yourselves! Finish the evening with a delicious hangi feast, cooked under the ground by the geothermal heat and enjoyed in the big hall alongside traditional Maori entertainment. It's the perfect end to your time in beautiful Rotorua.

Included: Car hire, ziplining tour, Maori feast evening, 4* hotel 

Day 13: Drive to Napier

It’s less than a 3-hour drive today to the coastal city of Napier set in the famous wine-producing region of Hawke’s Bay. On the way, make sure you visit Lake Taupo and the gushing waterfall at Huka Falls - we've included the iconic jet boat experience on the river up to the falls, where you'll enjoy 360° spins and close up views of the gushing waterfall.

On arrival in Napier, you'll check into your hotel for one night before heading out to explore the town in your own time. Napier is well known for its 1930’s art-deco style architecture - we've included an hour long walking tour with a knowledgeable guide. They'll point out art-deco features that you'd never notice otherwise!

Included: Car hire, Huka Falls jet boat, Art deco walking tour, 4* hotel 

Day 14: Napier

Today is yours to enjoy the town of Napier, as well as the wider region of Hawkes Bay. This is a famous wine region, so you could head out to explore some wineries and enjoy lunch amongst the vines. 

In the afternoon, we've included the 4WD Gannet Safari at Cape Kidnappers which takes you out over the farmland and riverbeds towards a large gannet colony. It's an incredible way to explore the landscape along the coast, before encountering the huge gannet colony by the cliffs, were you can admire the birds at close range as they nest, preen and fly overhead.

Included: Car hire, 4WD Gannet Safari, 4* hotel 

Day 15: Drive to Wellington

This morning you'll head south towards Wellington, arriving by the early afternoon and checking into your hotel for two nights. Why not head out to explore Zealandia, the world's first fully-fenced urban ecosanctuary. You can learn about the locals’ efforts to protect indigenous species, both plants and birds, in this spectacular city wildlife reserve.

Included: Car hire, 4* hotel 

Day 16: Wellington

Gazing across Wellington Harbour to the Cook Strait, New Zealand’s hugely appealing capital is a wonderful place to spend a few days. Painted wooden houses dot the hillsides, swanky restaurants line the waterfront and hip cafes pepper the city. We'd always recommend a visit to Te Papa, the largest museum in New Zealand and a sight to behold, both inside and out. The exhibitions change regularly, but the permanent collections offer a fascinating insight into the history of the Maori, the volcanic geology of New Zealand and unique wildlife of the three islands, much of which is now extinct.

During your day in Wellington, we've included a tour of WETA Workshop, the special effects studio that helped create the Lord of the Rings and many more famous films. It's a fascinating insight into the world of movie-making, with behind the scenes secrets, epic props and amazing stories about some of the biggest films of the 21st Century. 

Included: Car hire, Weta Workshop tour, 4* hotel 

Day 17: Ferry to Picton

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Wellington before driving to the ferry port and taking the famous Interislander ferry from Wellington over to Picton on the South Island. Admire spectacular views of the Marlborough Sounds as you cruise through the deep blue water. Arrive into Picton by early evening and settle into your hotel by the water for one night. 

Included: Car hire, ferry, 4* hotel 

Day 18: Drive to Abel Tasman National Park

Today is yours to explore the Marlborough Sounds, from the jumping off point of Picton. Why not enjoy breakfast by the harbour in one of the cosy cafes before enjoying the Bob's Bay Walk, an easy coastal track through native forest and past secluded coves. If you'd like something a little harder, the Queen Charlotte View Track is around 5km return from the car park and offer spectacular views over the sounds at the summit.

In the afternoon, you'll head out on the iconic Seafood Odyssea cruise, sailing out into the Queen Charlotte Sound on a catamaran, discovering some of the best fish and shellfish that New Zealand has to offer. Feast on fresh King Salmon and Greenshell mussels prepared in several delicious ways. You'll visit the marine reserve, soak in the spectacular views of the Marlborough Sounds from the water and sip cold sauvignon blanc as you look out for dolphins that often follow the boat. It's a magical and tasty way to spend the afternoon.

After you return from the cruise, you'll drive to Nelson, around 2 hours south, on the edge of Abel Tasman National Park and check into your hotel for three nights. 

Included: Car hire, Seafood Odyssea cruise, 4* hotel 

Day 19 & 20: Abel Tasman National Park

Experience the heart of Abel Tasman today on a cruising and kayaking tour of the national park. Start with a scenic cruise from Kaiteriteri to Torrent Bay, admiring the beaches, forest-clad headlands and turquoise waters along the way. On arrival, you'll meet your guide and set off by kayak to explore the sheltered lagoons and golden bays, admiring the fur seal colony at Pinnacle Island and soaking up the views from the water. After your kayaking adventure, you'll head back around Adele Island on the boat, before enjoying a short coastal walk and completing your experience of Abel Tasman's views from the land as well as the ocean. 

You'll also have a full day at leisure in this beautiful region, whether you want to enjoy more hikes, rent a kayak for some more exploration or hop on the boats into the more remote and off grid regions of the park. However you spend your day, it'll be a brilliant experience in this wild corner of New Zealand.

Included: Car hire, kayak and walking tour, 4* hotel 

Day 21: Drive to Blenheim

Leaving the wilderness behind, you'll drive back around the northern tip of the South Island towards the wine region of Marlborough, where you'll check into your hotel in the town of Blenheim for two nights. Your time here is all about wine, so why not head out to explore a local vineyard at your own pace before you enjoy a proper wine tasting tour tomorrow. 

Included: Car hire, 4* hotel 

Day 22: Blenheim

Spend the day exploring the wine region with a morning guided tour and an afternoon of self-guided fun! Start with three winery visits this morning, cycling along scenic trails, past river banks and down quiet roads. Your guide will explain about the history of Blenheim and the background of growing wine in this region, before sipping wine in the different vineyards and enjoying a grazing platter of local cheeses and fruit. They'll also give you maps and advice on how to spend your afternoon, based on what kinds of wine you enjoy and whether you'd like to explore small or larger vineyards. It's the perfect way to spend the day in Marlborough. 

Included: Car hire, morning guided wine cycle tour with afternoon self guided, 4* hotel 

Day 23: Drive to Kaikoura

Spend the morning enjoying Blenheim at your own pace - perhaps visiting a couple of different vineyards from yesterday or enjoying breakfast at one of the iconic brunch spots around town, before driving south along the Pacific coast towards Kaikoura. Stop off in Kekerengu for a coffee on the way, tuck into some local crayfish along the coast and pull in at Ohau Point to admire the fur seals along the shore. From here, you'll start to see the mountains rise dramatically to your right as the vast ocean lies to your left and soon you'll arrive in spectacular Kaikoura, home to some of the most majestic coastal scenery on the South Island.

Included: Car hire, 4* hotel 

Day 24: Kaikoura

Spend the day enjoying Kaikōura’s spectacular coastline and abundant marine life, with the mountains providing an impressive backdrop to your day. We've included a whale-watching flight, taking you out over the water in search of the whales found off the Kaikōura coast. Sperm whales can be found here year round, while humpbacks pass through on their migration from Antarctica between June and October. You'll also enjoy incredible views of the mountains and ocean, as well as the chance to see the whole length of the whale from above - it's pretty amazing.

In the evening, we've booked you on a relaxing sunset kayak tour, watching seals swim and dive around your kayak as they hunt for octopus. Keep your eyes peeled for blue penguins and albatross, as well as dusky dolphins in the dark waters. Enjoy the peaceful tranquillity of being out on the water amongst all this wildlife as the day draws to a close. 

Included: Car hire, whale watching flight, sunset kayak tour, 4* hotel 

Day 25: Drive to Christchurch

Today you'll carry on your journey down the coast to Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island. Drop off your hire car, check into your hotel for two nights and spend the afternoon exploring the city's many pop-up bars, cafes and shops, learning about the history of the architecture and changes since the earthquake in 2011. We've included a tram ticket, so you'll be able to hop on and off as you explore the heart of the city in the vintage tram.

Included: Car hire, tram hop on hop off, 4* hotel 

Day 26: Christchurch

Today is yours to enjoy the quaint city of Christchurch. We've included a peaceful punting tour along the River Avon past the Botanic Gardens before heading out to join the foodie walking tour for lunch. Tuck into the best of Christchurch on the Kai Bites tour which blends Māori traditions and the importance of food (kai) in bringing people together. You'll learn about the role of native plants in New Zealand cuisine, as you try artisan cheeses, honey, coffee, craft beer and traditional ingredients like horopito and kawakawa, which have long been used in Māori cooking.

After this fascinating tour, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy the city - why not continue your foodie adventures at Riverside Market, where you can taste Asian street food and famous hokey pokey ice cream?

Included: Punting tour, Kai Bites food tour, 4* hotel 

Day 27: TranzAlpine train to Greymouth, drive to Fox Glacier

You’ll be up early this morning to climb aboard the TranzAlpine at 7.30am, ready to take you through Arthurs Pass to the west coast town of Greymouth. You’ll pass through vast plains and miles of native forest before traversing the Southern Alps where glacier fed rivers shimmer under the snow-capped mountains. Arriving in Greymouth at lunchtime you’ll pick up your rental car at the station and drive south down the coast to Fox Glacier – why not take a short detour on the way to see the gushing blue waters of Hokitika Gorge before arriving at your hotel and checking in for two nights.

Included: TranzAlpine train tickets, car hire, 4* hotel 

Day 28: Fox Glacier

You’ve got a whole day here to enjoy the beauty of the Southern Alps and explore the west coast glaciers at your leisure. We've included the iconic heli-hike, which takes you high up onto the glacier, fitted with crampons and waterproofs to experience the ice blue world above. You'll head out on a hike across the ice, taking in the wild shapes and jagged peaks around you - every hike is different as the glacier is constantly changing. Admire shimmering blue pools, squeeze through ice caves, peer down narrow crevasses and soak up the other-worldly landscape of the glacier. It's an incredible way to spend the day!

Included: Heli hike, 4* hotel 

Day 29: Drive to Wanaka

Continue your drive down the west coast before turning inland on your journey to Wanaka. Don't miss the views across shimmering Lake Matheson where you can enjoy the loop walk around the lake and the Blue Pools, where you can admire the bright water as you explore the swing bridges over the water. This region is famous for it's seafood; why not tuck into whitebait fritters during the season or order a whole crayfish tail covered in garlic butter for lunch - delicious! Drive down the side of Lake Wanaka before arriving in town, checking into your hotel for two nights.

Included: Car hire, 4* hotel 

Day 30: Wanaka

Beautiful Wanaka is your playground today, as you enjoy a cruise across the lake to Mou Waho Island. This protected and predator-free reserve is an incredible place to explore with a guide, as you hike along the walking track through regenerating forest, learning about the unique conservation efforts on the island. Eventually you'll reach Arethusa Pool, a rare lake on an island within a lake, with sweeping views over Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains. Enjoy the cruise back over the water and head back to town. 

Included: Car hire, cruise with island tour, 4* hotel 

Day 31: Drive to Queenstown

Today you'll continue south towards Queenstown. We always recommend visiting the quaint village of Arrowtown, nestled in the hills behind Queenstown with pretty buildings, boutique shops and gold-mining history. Explore the small galleries and don't miss tasting an iconic New Zealand pie at the bakery! After a few hours enjoying the backroads and Arrowtown, you'll arrive in Queenstown, which sits on the edge of a deep blue lake under the gaze of the Remarkables mountain range. Check into your hotel here for three nights and head out for a walk around town on your first evening in this mountain resort.

Included: Car hire, 4* hotel 

Days 32 & 33: Queenstown

Nestled on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is a major hub of activities and adventures in New Zealand. You'll have a few days to explore - we always recommend enjoying the scenic drive down to nearby Glenorchy, where you'll be able to admire the mountains over the lake and stop in at various viewpoints on your way to the scenic village. We also love heading up on the gondola to Skyline Queenstown, where you can enjoy lunch with a view and head down on the iconic luge - it's great fun!

We've included a lunchtime trip on the TSS Earnslaw, the historic steamship that offers scenic cruises across the lake to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Once you arrive you'll enjoy a delicious gourmet lunch, as well as a farm tour and learn about life on a New Zealand sheep station.

On your second day in Queenstown, we've the epic Dart River Wilderness Jet, an exhilarating adventures along the remote and pristine Dart River. Drive along to Glenorchy, before getting onboard the jet boat, zooming up the braided channels of the river through Mount Aspiring National Park, where snow-capped peaks and ancient beech forests create a stunning backdrop. It's so much fun going so fast along the river, with the occasional 360° spin in the wider areas of the water, before taking a hike along the riverbanks at the furthest point of the trip. An epic day to spend the morning in unreal scenery. 

Included: Dart River Wilderness Jet, TSS Earnslaw cruise, 4* hotel 

Day 34: Drive to Te Anau & Milford Sound

Today you'll drive south into the heart of Fiordland National Park, firstly along the shores of Lake Takatipu before heading into the dramatic forests of Fiordland. You'll arrive a tthe lakeside town of Te Anau, checking into your hotel for one night, before continuing your drive up towards Milford Sound, one of the most iconic spots in New Zealand. 

When you arrive, you'll head off on a 2.5 hour cruise of Milford Sound, where you'll witness the dramatic beauty the sound from the water. Sail beneath cascading waterfalls and towering peaks, you'll glide through the water looking out for fur seals, dolphins and, occasionally, penguins. Enjoy majestic scenery at every turn, before returning back to the cruise depot and driving back to Te Anau. 

This evening is yours to relax in this peaceful spot, or if you'd like we can book you on the glow-worm experience, where you can sit quietly as you cruise through the dark limestone caves near Te Anau, beneath thousands of tiny glow-worms. If you'd like to add this, just ask!

Included: Car hire, Milford Sound cruise, 4* hotel 

Day 35: Doubtful Sounds overnight cruise

Spend the morning strolling around the pretty lake front of Te Anau, before heading off to begin your overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound. First you'll cross Lake Manapouri, before a coach takes you across the Wilmot Pass, through dense rainforest as you arrive at Deep Cove on Doubtful Sound. 

Here you'll join the boat, and begin your cruise past the lush scenery, learning from your knowledgeable guides about the pods of resident dolphins, rare penguins and tiny bays you'll pass by. Anchoring in a sheltered cove, you can explore the shoreline by kayak or boat, and even try a swim if you can bear to brave the cold! Enjoy a delicious evening meal on board as you chat with fellow travellers, and enjoy star-gazing on deck if the skies are clear. Spending the night on the sound is a magical experience, falling asleep amongst the vast silence and tranquillity of Fiordland National Park.

Included: Car hire, lunch, dinner, cabin on overnight cruise

Day 36: Drive to Invercargill

Start your morning in the misty Doubtful Sound with a hearty cooked breakfast and get ready to explore the other arms of the fiord. Before long, you’ll return to Deep Cove, and take the trip back to Manapouri and on to Te Anau. From here, you'll pick up your car and drive south through the scenery of the Southlands to Invercargill, checking into your hotel for one night, ready to head to Stewart Island tomorrow.

Included: Breakfast, car hire, 4* hotel 

Day 37: Ferry to Stewart Island

Take the morning ferry over to Stewart Island, a wildlife haven off the south coast of New Zealand. Check into your hotel, Stewart Island Lodge, for two nights before heading out to explore the island at your leisure. You can do your own thing today or we can book a cruise to the nearby Ulva Island, one of New Zealand's most important wildlife sanctuaries. Hop on the catamaran past secluded beaches as you look out for seabirds and penguins before enjoying a guided nature walking through the native forest. Look for weka, South Island robins, saddlebacks and yellowheads - this is some of the easiest and most rewarding bird watching in New Zealand. If you'd like to add this tour, just ask!

Included: Car hire, ferry tickets, Stewart Island Lodge

Day 38: Stewart Island

Enjoy Stewart Island's laid-back vibe and beautiful natural surroundings. Wander around the small township of Oban, browse the local galleries and cafés or follow the short walk up to Observation Rock for sweeping views across Halfmoon Bay and Paterson Inlet. Alternatively, return to Stewart Island Lodge to relax on the terrace with a good book as you and soak up the peaceful waterfront setting. 

This evening, you'll head out on a wild kiwi encounter, one of New Zealand's most memorable wildlife experiences. Cruise across Paterson Inlet from Halfmoon Bay to Little Glory Cove at dusk before heading ashore with a guide in search of the elusive southern brown kiwi. As dusk sets in and daylight diminishes, venture by torchlight through the native forest with the stars and forest night sounds around you. Walking through native forest under the cover of darkness, you'll have the rare opportunity to observe these remarkable birds in their natural habitat. Exploring this pristine wilderness with an expert guide is a truly unforgettable experience.

Included: Evening kiwi encounter tour, Stewart Island Lodge

Day 39: Ferry to Bluff, drive to Dunedin

This morning, you'll head back on the short ferry journey to Bluff, picking up your hire car and heading north as you drive towards Dunedin. Make sure you stop in at Nugget Point to see the dramatic sea-carved rocks and Purakaunui Falls to look out for sea lions and fur seals. Soon you'll arrive at the historic town of Dunedin, where you can admire the Victorian architecture, visit vibrant galleries and quirky coffee shops before heading out to explore the nearby Otago Peninsula. Here you'll join a wildlife cruise, heading out to look for fur seals, seabirds and the royal northern albatross, as well as the adorable little blue penguins. Driving back to town you can stop in at the nearby Royal Albatross Centre to get a close up of these fascinating creatures. 

Included: Ferry tickets, car hire, Otago wildlife cruise, 4* hotel 

Day 40: Drive to Oamaru

Continuing your journey north, today you'll drive towards the tiny town of Oamaru, along a peaceful stretch of the South Island's east cast. Stop at the fascinating Moeraki Boulders, where you'll find dozens of enormous spherical stones scattered across the beach before stopping in the village of Moeraki for fish and chips by the water for lunch. Drive pass lush farmlands before arriving in Oamaru, one of New Zealand's most charming towns. Explore the beautifully preserved Victorian precinct and head out for an early dinner before enjoying the most iconic Oamaru experience. 

As dusk falls, you'll be able to watch the world's smallest penguin, the little blue penguin, emerge from the sea and their way up the shore to sleep after a day feeding at sea. Watching these tiny creatures head back to their nests as the sun sets is a magical way to end the day. 

Included: Car hire, Penguin viewing experience, 4* hotel 

Day 41: Drive to Lake Tekapo

Today you'll leave the coast behind and head back into the heart of the lake country in the South Island, making the journey towards Lake Tekapo. Drive through the vast plains of the Waitaki Valley, along the braided Waitaki River before you see the Southern Alps on the horizon and the scenery starts to become more dramatic. Famous for it's bright blue water and mountainous backdrop, Lake Tekapo will be your base for the next few days, as you check into your hotel for two nights. 

Tonight, you'll enjoy an unforgettable night under some of the darkest skies on earth, on a stargazing tour from Lake Tekapo. You'll get to enjoy naked-eye stargazing, as well as using some powerful telescopes to view deep space from your comfortable moon chairs and cosy blankets, whilst keeping warm with a hot drink. This area is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, and is one of the best places in the world for stargazing, with crystal-clear night skies revealing thousands of stars, planets and the Milky Way.

Included: Car hire, stargazing tour, 4* hotel 

Day 42: Lake Tekapo

Today is yours to explore this region at your own leisure. We always recommend driving down to Mount Cook, where you can explore some excellent hiking trails in the shadow of the tallest mountain in New Zealand, from the easy Hooker Valley Track, with its swing bridges and glacier-fed river views, to shorter trails leading to viewpoints of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. Even just the drive along Lake Pukaki is one of the most spectacular journeys in New Zealand, with endless viewpoints and stop offs to take photographs. If you'd like to keep active, nearby Twizel has a huge network of cycling trails that wind through alpine landscapes and lakes. No matter how you spend your time, a day amongst the mountains will fly by. 

Included: Car hire, 4* hotel 

Day 43: Depart New Zealand

Head north for the last time, as you leave the mountains behind you and drive through the wide plains of the Mackenzie Basin and Canterbury towards Christchurch. Stop for lunch in the charming town of Geraldine, where you can explore the boutique shops and cafes before dropping off your hire car at the airport in Christchurch and catching your flight home. 

Included: Car hire, 4* hotel, international flights

Day 44: Arrive UK