Self Drives for New Zealand

Christchurch to Christchurch

Christchurch Bridge, New Zealand

Self Drive Itinerary

Day 1. Arrive Christchurch.

Christchurch is an elegant city renown for beautiful gardens including, Hagley Park, Christchurch Botanic Gardens and Mona Vale Homestead which has five hectares of gardens and fabulous views of the Avon River.

Day 2. Christchurch to Kaikoura.

Depart Christchurch and drive north to Kaikoura, renowned for its year round whale and dolphin watching.

Day 3. Kaikoura to Blenheim.

Situated on the fertile Wairau Plains in the Marlborough district, at the top of the South Island of New Zealand, Blenheim's varied attractions include its wine industry, the waterways of the Marlborough Sounds, gourmet foods, adventure activities, relaxing recreation opportunities and much more.

Overnight Blenheim.

Day 4. Blenheim to Nelson.

Travel to Nelson today where sunshine, golden beaches, national parks, boutique wineries and waterfront cafés await you.

Overnight Nelson.

Day 5. Nelson at leisure.

Lots of options today including beaches to explore, harbour cruises, walks or adventure activities. Nelson is also the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park, the smallest of New Zealand's national parks, with glittering beaches, turquoise water and spectacular ocean views.

Day 6. Nelson to Punakaiki.

From Nelson journey through scenic reserves to Westport. Westport is a historic coal-mining settlement; the coal town museum has historical exhibitions and photographic displays. Visit the seal colony before continuing on to Punakaiki.

Overnight Punakaiki.

Day 7. Punakaiki to Franz Josef.

This morning explore Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and the Blowholes before continuing south to Franz Josef, an area of mountain peaks, impressive glaciers, tranquil lakes, raging rivers, lush rainforest and a magnificent coastline. Explore the base of the glaciers or take a scenic flight.

Overnight Franz Josef.

Day 8. Franz Josef to Queenstown.

Travel through the scenic wilderness of Haast pass, stopping along the way to take advantage of many short nature walks and picnic spots before continuing to Queenstown.

Overnight Queenstown (2 nights).

Day 9. Queenstown at leisure.

Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps. Queenstown is recognised as New Zealand's premier visitor destination.

Day 10. Queenstown to Milford Sound to Te Anau.

Journey through mountains and alongside lakes to Te Anau and Milford Sound. Enjoy a cruise on Milford Sound with its sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls and majestic Mitre Peak.

Overnight Te Anau.

Day 11. Te Anau to Dunedin.

Today is spent driving the southern scenic route exploring the Catlins area. The Catlins is home to an abundance of wildlife, and Nugget Point is a stunning and accessible place for viewing seals and penguins. Continue to Dunedin, a historic university town, that was first settled by the Scottish as it is renowned as the "Edinburgh of the South".

Overnight Dunedin.

Day 12. Dunedin to Christchurch.

Depart Dunedin and head north to Timaru a place known for its extensive Edwardian and Victorian architecture. Stop and enjoy the coastal views from Caroline Bay before continuing on to Christchurch.

Overnight Christchurch.

Day 13. Depart Christchurch.

Return your rental vehicle and depart Christchurch.

Price Includes: Co-pilot Kit, Co-pilot Kit, 13 Days Hertz Group E car hire, Accommodation as noted, Milford Sound Scenic Cruise.

Please Note: We can assist you in booking your flights to New Zealand. Please feel free to contact us for the best airfares available. Itineraries subject to change. Please request details at time of booking.