New-Zealand-13-days: selfdrive-nature-scenic

Arrive at Queenstown Airport (airport code: ZQN), where you will collect your self-drive rental vehicle and begin your New Zealand adventure. Drive to your hotel and complete the check-in formalities before taking some time to relax. Later, head out to explore the vibrant town of Queenstown at your own pace. Stroll along the picturesque shores of Lake Wakatipu, browse the local shops and cafés, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere. If you wish, savour a meal at the iconic Fergburger (at your own expense), a favourite among both locals and visitors. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Queenstown.

Total driving: 15kms/ 9 miles
Duration: 1.5 hours

Meals Included: None

After breakfast, set out to experience some of Queenstown's most iconic attractions. Begin with a scenic ride aboard the Skyline Gondola, taking in panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding Remarkables mountain range. Continue the excitement with three thrilling Luge rides, suitable for all ages and offering a fun way to descend the hillside.

The remainder of the day is free for you to explore Queenstown at your own pace. Browse the town's boutique shops, relax at one of the many cafés, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere along the waterfront.

For those seeking an extra adrenaline rush, an optional 12,000 ft Tandem Skydive is available, offering spectacular aerial views of New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Queenstown.

Total driving: 30 kms/ 19 miles
Duration: 6 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, get ready for another exciting day in Queenstown, renowned as New Zealand's adventure capital. Begin with the exhilarating Shotover Jet Boat ride, speeding through narrow river canyons and experiencing thrilling 360-degree spins on the Shotover River.

Later, step aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship for a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Enjoy a delicious Gourmet BBQ Lunch or Dinner while taking in the beautiful lakeside setting, followed by time to experience the working farm before cruising back to Queenstown. Return to your hotel after a memorable day of adventure, scenic beauty, and authentic Kiwi hospitality.

Total driving: 30 kms/ 19 miles
Duration: 5 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, embark on one of New Zealand's most scenic self-drive journeys as you travel through the spectacular landscapes of Fiordland National Park towards Milford Sound. Surrounded by towering mountains, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls, the route offers numerous opportunities to pause and admire the breathtaking scenery along the way.

Upon arrival, board a Milford Sound Nature Cruise and sail through the majestic fiord, passing dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and native wildlife while enjoying a picnic lunch onboard. After the cruise, continue your drive to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park, where you will check in to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Total driving: 525 kms/ 326 miles
Duration: 9 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, continue your self-drive journey to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand's highest peak and some of its most spectacular alpine scenery. Travel through ever-changing landscapes, passing rolling countryside, glacial lakes, and dramatic mountain vistas before arriving at your destination.

Upon arrival, check in to your accommodation and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. Take in the breathtaking surroundings, enjoy a leisurely walk, or simply relax and admire the stunning views of the Southern Alps. Overnight stay in Mount Cook.

Total driving: 410 kms/ 255 miles
Duration: 6 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the spectacular alpine landscapes of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park with the Alpine Vista experience. Surrounded by towering peaks, glaciers, and turquoise lakes, take in some of New Zealand's most breathtaking scenery while learning about the region's unique natural environment.

The remainder of the day is at leisure, giving you time to further explore the national park, enjoy one of the scenic walking trails, or simply relax and admire the panoramic mountain views. Return to your accommodation for another peaceful overnight stay in Mount Cook.

Total driving: 30 kms/ 19 miles
Duration: 2 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, continue your self-drive journey to the picturesque Lake Tekapo, renowned for its striking turquoise waters and breathtaking alpine setting. Upon arrival, take some time to explore the charming lakeside village or simply relax and admire the spectacular scenery that surrounds this iconic destination.

As evening falls, experience the magic of the Premium star gazing experience at Tekapo Springs, located within the renowned Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. With minimal light pollution and exceptionally clear skies, enjoy an unforgettable opportunity to observe countless stars, constellations, and distant galaxies through expert-guided stargazing. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Lake Tekapo.

Total driving: 105 kms/ 65 miles
Duration: 2 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, bid farewell to the tranquil landscapes of Lake Tekapo and continue your self-drive journey to Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand's South Island. Travel through the scenic Canterbury Plains, known for their expansive farmland, snow-capped mountain backdrops, and charming rural towns.

Upon arrival in Christchurch, check in to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. You may choose to explore the city's vibrant cafés, riverside precincts, beautiful gardens, or simply relax after your scenic drive. Overnight stay in Christchurch.

Total distance: 230 kms/ 143 miles
Duration: 3 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, drive to Christchurch Airport, return your rental vehicle, and board your flight to Auckland (flight not included). Upon arrival, collect your new self-drive rental vehicle and begin your journey to Rotorua, travelling through the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand's North Island.

On arrival in Rotorua, check in to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. Known for its geothermal activity, Māori heritage, and natural beauty, Rotorua offers a warm welcome and sets the stage for the experiences to come. Overnight stay in Rotorua.

Total driving: 230 kms/ 143 miles
Duration: 4 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, discover the unique geothermal and cultural attractions that make Rotorua one of New Zealand's most fascinating destinations. Begin with the Te Rā Guided Experience, where you'll gain insights into Māori traditions while exploring the region's remarkable geothermal landscapes.

Continue your day with a visit to the Agrodome Farm, where you'll experience New Zealand's rich farming heritage through an interactive farm show and tour. As evening approaches, head to the enchanting Redwoods Treewalk Nightlights, where illuminated suspension bridges weave through towering redwood trees, creating a truly memorable forest experience. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Rotorua.

Total driving: 40 km/ 35 miles
Duration: 3 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, depart from Rotorua and enjoy a scenic self-drive towards Auckland. En route, visit the world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set, where you'll step into the enchanting world of Middle-earth and explore the beautifully preserved film set featured in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.

Continue your journey with a visit to the fascinating Waitomo Glowworm Caves, renowned for their unique limestone formations and thousands of glowworms that illuminate the cave ceilings like a star-filled sky. Later, drive onwards to Auckland, New Zealand's largest city, and check in to your hotel for an overnight stay.

Distance: 330 kms/ 205 miles
Duration: 5 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, spend the day exploring Auckland, New Zealand's largest and most vibrant city, at your own pace. Discover its lively waterfront, charming neighbourhoods, boutique shopping, and diverse dining scene, or simply relax and enjoy the city's unique atmosphere.

Later, take a scenic drive to Piha Beach, located on Auckland's rugged west coast. Famous for its striking black sand, dramatic cliffs, and iconic Lion Rock, Piha offers spectacular coastal scenery and is a perfect place to unwind while enjoying the natural beauty of the region. Return to Auckland for an overnight stay.

Distance: 90 kms/ 56 miles
Duration: 2hours

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and drive to Auckland Airport. Return your self-drive rental vehicle and complete the departure formalities before boarding your onward flight. As your unforgettable journey through New Zealand comes to an end, take home wonderful memories of spectacular landscapes, unique experiences, and warm Kiwi hospitality. We hope to welcome you on another JrnyOn adventure soon.

Distance: 22 kms/ 14 miles
Duration: 1 hours

Meals Included: Breakfast