Book AIR plus
South Island Self Drive
- Duration
- 10 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,199
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$ 1,199
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 cafes await you.
| Duration | 2 Nights |
|---|---|
| Accommodation |
Bella Vista Motel Nelson |
| Location | View map |
-
Bella Vista Motel Nelson
Bella Vista Motel Nelson is ideally located in Nelson's Tahunanui Drive, a 15 minute stroll to Tahuna beach. Its central location is a few minutes' drive to the beach and its shops, bars, restaurants, cafes and other great Nelson attractions and activities. The airport is …
Bella Vista Motel Nelson is ideally located in Nelson's Tahunanui Drive, a 15 minute stroll to Tahuna beach. Its central location is a few minutes' drive to the beach and its shops, bars, restaurants, cafes and other great Nelson attractions and activities. The airport is a 5 minute drive away. The Bella Vista Motel Nelson offers a range of studio and one bedroom units. All room types feature; ensuite, microwave or kitchenette, tea & coffee making facilities, free WiFi, SKY cable TV. The property has a guest laundry, BBQ area and children's play area.
Facilities
- Bar
- Barbeques (BBQ)
- Children's Activities
- Internet Access
- Laundry facilities
- Non-Smoking Rooms
- Parking
- Playground
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
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 |
-
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
Photo 1 of 2
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 |
Rainforest Retreat |
| Location | View map |
-
Rainforest Retreat
Rainforest Retreat is located in the Franz Josef Glacier village, in the heart of New Zealand's Glacier Country, which is situated on the South Island's West Coast and is part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area. There is a choice of Tree Houses which …
Rainforest Retreat is located in the Franz Josef Glacier village, in the heart of New Zealand's Glacier Country, which is situated on the South Island's West Coast and is part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area. There is a choice of Tree Houses which are elevated in individual clearings. Tree Lodges offer the unique option of your choice of forest floor or raised into the forest canopy.
Facilities
- Barbeques (BBQ)
- Children's Activities
- Laundry facilities
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Spa
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 5
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 |
Heartland Hotel Queenstown |
| Location | View map |
-
Heartland Hotel Queenstown
Heartland Hotel Queenstown is perched just above the town centre - an excellent vantage point where you can feel tucked away and enjoy magnificent views, yet you are only a few minutes walk to the town centre. With 81 comfortable, well-appointed guest rooms, including five …
Heartland Hotel Queenstown is perched just above the town centre - an excellent vantage point where you can feel tucked away and enjoy magnificent views, yet you are only a few minutes walk to the town centre. With 81 comfortable, well-appointed guest rooms, including five family rooms, Heartland Hotel Queenstown provides all you need for a comfortable rest at the end of another action-packed Queenstown day.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Concierge
- Conference Facilities
- Currency Exchange
- Daycare/Babysitting Service
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Parking (for Self Park)
- Reception (24 hrs)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Spa(Hot-tub)/Jacuzzi
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 3
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 |
Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau |
| Location | View map |
-
Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau
The Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau is situated amidst lush gardens, and offers enviable views over the mountains and lakes. Guest rooms are comforting and modern, while an excellent range of amenities are provided. With an on-site restaurant and bar, you needn't look far for entertainment …
The Kingsgate Hotel Te Anau is situated amidst lush gardens, and offers enviable views over the mountains and lakes. Guest rooms are comforting and modern, while an excellent range of amenities are provided. With an on-site restaurant and bar, you needn't look far for entertainment during your stay. The hotel boasts 94 guest rooms, with twin, double and adjoining rooms for families.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Conference Facilities
- Internet Access
- Parking
- Restaurant(s)
- Secretarial Service
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
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 |
Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin |
| Location | View map |
-
Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin
Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin is right in the heart of the city and ideal for business or leisure. You are within strolling distance of stately homes and Gothic revival style buildings; Otago Museum is a fifteen minute walk away, the beach a ten minute drive and …
Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin is right in the heart of the city and ideal for business or leisure. You are within strolling distance of stately homes and Gothic revival style buildings; Otago Museum is a fifteen minute walk away, the beach a ten minute drive and the Central Business District is right on your doorstep. Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin has 55 sunny north facing guest rooms.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Conference Facilities
- Internet Access
- Secretarial Service
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
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 |
Heartland Hotel Cotswold |
| Location | View map |
-
Heartland Hotel Cotswold
Full of character, Heartland Hotel Cotswold is warm and welcoming, and the perfect place to relax during your visit to Christchurch. The hotel has 77 spacious rooms and its spacious grounds feature award-winning gardens. Located on the edge of the central business district it's an …
Full of character, Heartland Hotel Cotswold is warm and welcoming, and the perfect place to relax during your visit to Christchurch. The hotel has 77 spacious rooms and its spacious grounds feature award-winning gardens. Located on the edge of the central business district it's an easy stroll to boutique shopping at Merivale Mall, Christchurch Casino and the beautiful Hagley Park. Just a 20 minute drive from Christchurch airport Heartland Hotel Cotswold is well-positioned for travellers visiting Christchurch.
Facilities
- Business Centre
- Conference Facilities
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Internet Access
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry/Dry Cleaning Service
- Parking (for Self Park)
- Pool (s)
- Reception (24 hrs)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Secretarial Service
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 3
Christchurch to your next stop
This morning is at leisure before returning your rental vehicle.
Other Information
DEPARTS:
Daily.
PRICE INCLUDES:
- 9 nights of accommodation
- 10 Day Hertz Group E car rental
- Goway's co-pilot kit (maps, directions, discounts)
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.
12 Mar 2021
