South Island Self Drive
- Duration
- 10 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,239
FIRST-CLASS | SELF-DRIVE: Drive full circle from Christchurch and back again seeing the many highlights available on the South Island including the famous Pancake Rocks and Franz Josef, Milford Sound and Dunedin.
Some of the world’s most spectacular scenery awaits you on this 10 day round trip from Christchurch. You’ll visit all the key sights of the South Island, while enjoying the flexibility of self-driving.
Nelson is the South Island’s oldest established city. Leave your vehicle in town to explore Abel Tasman National Park, a pristine wilderness with unspoiled beaches and spectacular ocean views. A drive along the Tasman coast brings you to the unique Pancake rocks of Punakaiki, as well as Glacier country, where stunning Franz Josef glacier is said to be the tears of a Maori princess, pining for her lost love. Enjoy the drive through scenic Haast Pass on your way to Queenstown.
As New Zealand’s adventure capital, Queenstown is a Mecca for skiers, but still has plenty to offer the less active visitor, including a range of tours, or a ride on the famous Shotover jetboat. No stay here is complete without a day trip to Milford Sound. A 16km fjord carved by glacial ice, this is New Zealand’s most spectacular attraction and is best seen via a cruise along its length, during which you might spot a range of wildlife including dolphins, seals, penguins, and the occasional whale.
Travel to the beautiful, Scottish-influenced town of Dunedin, where you may enjoy visiting the Royal Albatross and Yellow-eyed Penguin colonies of Otago Peninsula, or a spooky tour through Larnach Castle. Return to historic Christchurch, with time for sightseeing before departure.
Please click here for our New Zealand Self Drive itineraries
- Duration
- 10 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,239
Itinerary View Trip Map
Christchurch to Nelson 428 km (266 miles) 7 hours
After collecting your car depart Christchurch and drive north to Kaikoura, renowned for its year round whale and dolphin watching.
Travel via Blenheim and on to Nelson where sunshine, golden beaches, national parks, boutique wineries and waterfront cafés await you.
| Duration | 2 Nights |
|---|---|
| Accommodation |
Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco |
| Location | View map |
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Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco
Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco is a handcrafted resort village surrounded by gardens. Featuring 95 rooms, the hotel boasts a charming one storey hotel plus elegant self-contained one and two bedroom apartments with scenic views over the village green. Offering easy access to countless activities and …
Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco is a handcrafted resort village surrounded by gardens. Featuring 95 rooms, the hotel boasts a charming one storey hotel plus elegant self-contained one and two bedroom apartments with scenic views over the village green. Offering easy access to countless activities and attractions, Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco is just five minutes from the airport. Exquisite in character and style, it is the ideal choice for a relaxing weekend, holiday or conference.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Conference Facilities
- Fireplace
- Internet Access
- Library
- Lounge(s)
- Massage Treatments
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant(s)
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
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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.
Nelson to Punakaiki 275 km (180 miles) 5 hours
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.
| Duration | 1 Night |
|---|---|
| Accommodation |
Punakaiki Resort |
| Location | View map |
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Punakaiki Resort
The Punakaiki Resort is an eco-tourism hotel located in the Buller district between Greymouth, 30 minutes to the south and Westport which is 45 minutes to the north. Carefully designed to complement the stunning natural setting, it is situated close to Pancake Rocks and Blowhole …
The Punakaiki Resort is an eco-tourism hotel located in the Buller district between Greymouth, 30 minutes to the south and Westport which is 45 minutes to the north. Carefully designed to complement the stunning natural setting, it is situated close to Pancake Rocks and Blowhole at Punakaiki and adjacent to Paparoa National Park. This hotel is a perfect choice for a leisure stay.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Daycare/Babysitting Service
- Laundry facilities
- Parking
- Reception (24 hrs)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Photo gallery
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Punakaiki to Glaciers 227 km (135 miles) 4 hours
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.
| Duration | 1 Night |
|---|---|
| Accommodation |
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier |
| Location | View map |
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Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier sits at the edge of the Westland World Heritage Park and it is just moments from one of New Zealand's most spectacular natural attractions, the Franz Josef Glacier. The hotel is in a premium location, making it the perfect place …
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier sits at the edge of the Westland World Heritage Park and it is just moments from one of New Zealand's most spectacular natural attractions, the Franz Josef Glacier. The hotel is in a premium location, making it the perfect place to base yourself while exploring the magnificent Westland region.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Conference Facilities
- Internet Access
- Laundry facilities
- Parking (for Self Park)
- Reception (24 hrs)
- Restaurant(s)
- Spa
Photo gallery
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Glacier Region to Queenstown 404 km (251 miles) 6 hours
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.
| Duration | 2 Nights |
|---|---|
| Accommodation |
Heritage Queenstown |
| Location | View map |
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Heritage Queenstown
The Heritage Queenstown offers enchanting views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkable Mountain Range. A short distance from the town centre, this unique European style lodge is surrounded by native forest in the heart of New Zealand's alpine wonderland. Crafted from centuries old schist and …
The Heritage Queenstown offers enchanting views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkable Mountain Range. A short distance from the town centre, this unique European style lodge is surrounded by native forest in the heart of New Zealand's alpine wonderland. Crafted from centuries old schist and cedar, The Heritage Queenstown is the perfect place to relax in comfortable yet sophisticated surroundings. The Heritage offers a choice of 178 luxury rooms, including traditional deluxe hotel accommodation and spacious 1 or 2 bedroom Suites. Each room is thoughtfully decorated, featuring individual touches which reflect unique high country origins.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Concierge
- Conference Facilities
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Parking
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Spa
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Photo gallery
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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.
Queenstown to Te Anau 170 km (106 miles) 2.5 hours
Journey through mountains and alongside lakes to Te Anau. We suggest a cruise on Milford Sound with its sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls and majestic Mitre Peak.
| Duration | 1 Night |
|---|---|
| Accommodation |
Distinction Luxmore Hotel Te Anau |
| Location | View map |
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Distinction Luxmore Hotel Te Anau
Located in the heart of the town, The Distinction Luxmore is a popular choice with both visitors and locals alike. Basing yourself in Te Anau enables you to explore the Fiordland World Heritage National Park and staying at Distinction Luxmore ensures your experience will be …
Located in the heart of the town, The Distinction Luxmore is a popular choice with both visitors and locals alike. Basing yourself in Te Anau enables you to explore the Fiordland World Heritage National Park and staying at Distinction Luxmore ensures your experience will be enjoyable. Distinction Luxmore has 186 rooms consisting of Standard, Superior and Deluxe. There are two on site restaurants and bars. Highlights Restaurant and bar has seating for 160 guests offering buffet breakfast daily and a scrumptious Carvery Buffet dinner. Guests can enjoy the views overlooking the township towards Lake Te Anau and surrounding mountain ranges.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Bellman/Porters
- Conference Facilities
- Currency Exchange
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Lounge(s)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
Photo gallery
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Te Anau to Dunedin 290 km (180 miles) 4 hours
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, an historic university town, which still feels the influence of its Scottish settlers as it is renowned as the "Edinburgh of the South".
| Duration | 1 Night |
|---|---|
| Accommodation |
Scenic Hotel Southern Cross Dunedin |
| Location | View map |
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Scenic Hotel Southern Cross Dunedin
Dunedin's largest hotel proudly stands in the heart of the city. Dating back to 1883, this landmark building now blends Dunedin's distinctive charm and heritage with the modern day comforts guests demand. The uniqueness of the historic parts of the hotel, and their commitment to …
Dunedin's largest hotel proudly stands in the heart of the city. Dating back to 1883, this landmark building now blends Dunedin's distinctive charm and heritage with the modern day comforts guests demand. The uniqueness of the historic parts of the hotel, and their commitment to excellent customer service will ensure you have a memorable stay.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Business Centre
- Conference Facilities
- Daycare/Babysitting Service
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Parking (Paid)
- Reception (24 hrs)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Photo gallery
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Dunedin to Christchurch 362 km (225 miles) 5 hours
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.
| Duration | 1 Night |
|---|---|
| Accommodation |
Distinction Hotel Christchurch |
| Location | View map |
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Distinction Hotel Christchurch
The newly renovated Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, whilst standing proud amongst the buzz of the rejuvenation of Cathedral Square. The hotel is ideally positioned in the heart of the city only a few minutes' walk from …
The newly renovated Distinction Christchurch Hotel is an urban escape combining sophisticated smarts and familiar warmth, whilst standing proud amongst the buzz of the rejuvenation of Cathedral Square. The hotel is ideally positioned in the heart of the city only a few minutes' walk from the Avon River, Botanical Gardens, Christchurch Casino and Cashel Mall. Distinction Christchurch offers 179 elegant, air-conditioned hotel rooms, including 3 floors of brand new Superior Rooms and Suites out-fitted with the latest technology including flat screen Smart TVs and free unlimited WiFi. Designed to suit everyone from business travellers requiring spacious, contemporary accommodation to those travellers seeking a place to relax and unwind after a day exploring Canterbury's vibrant attractions
Facilities
- Bar
- Dining Area
- Disabled Friendly
- Family Room
- Fitness Centre
- Room Service
- WiFi
Photo gallery
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Christchurch to your next stop
This morning is at leisure before returning your rental vehicle.
Other Information
DEPARTS:
Daily.
PRICE INCLUDES:
- 9 nights of first-class accommodation
- Car rental for 10 days with unlimited kilometres and mandatory vehicle insurance
- Goway's Co-Pilot Kit including maps and detailed driving information
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Travel Insurance
- International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
- Visa fees if applicable
- Meals and beverages not specifically indicated
- Optional excursions
- Park fees unless stated
- Items of a personal nature
- Gratuities
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please enquire.
15 Sep 2021
