Classic South Island Explorer - 16 Day Self Drive

From £1,731£108 per day
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Who is this trip for

Age range

18 - 90

Start / End

  • Christchurch
  • Nelson

Physical rating

1/5

Group size

2 - 6

Meals included

5

Highlights

  • Travel through New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes in one seamless journey – from alpine peaks and turquoise lakes to glaciers, rainforests and golden beaches. This itinerary captures the full diversity of the South Island, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want to see it all.
  • Cruise beneath towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls in the heart of Fiordland National Park. Whether in sunshine or rain, Milford Sound delivers one of the most dramatic and memorable experiences in the country – a true bucket-list highlight for first-time travellers.
  • Stay within Mount Cook National Park and wake up to views of New Zealand’s highest peak. Surrounded by glaciers, alpine trails and crystal-clear skies, this region offers a quintessential “postcard” New Zealand experience that first-time visitors dream of.
  • Take to the skies for a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight and guided walk on a living glacier. This extraordinary adventure combines flightseeing, ice formations and dramatic mountain scenery – an experience found nowhere else in the world.
  • End your journey in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal regions. Cruise and walk along sheltered bays, golden sands and crystal-clear waters, offering a relaxed and scenic contrast to the dramatic mountains and fjords seen earlier in the trip.

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Summary

Experience the very best of New Zealand’s South Island on this beautifully balanced self-drive journey, combining iconic alpine landscapes, dramatic fjords, glaciers, rainforests and golden beaches with a hand-picked collection of characterful and premium accommodation. Designed for travellers who want freedom, comfort and unforgettable scenery, this itinerary showcases the South Island’s most celebrated highlights at an unhurried pace.

From the cultural charm of Christchurch to the soaring peaks of Aoraki / Mount Cook, the deep fjords of Milford Sound, the adventure capital of Queenstown, the wild West Coast glaciers and the sun-soaked shores of Abel Tasman National Park, this is a classic journey that captures New Zealand at its most spectacular.

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Depart The UK For New Zealand

    Today you'll board your flight to New Zealand for the holiday of a lifetime. Enjoy the flight and upon arrival you'll pick up your hire care.

  • Day 2

    Arrive Christchurch

    Arrive into Christchurch and collect your rental vehicle before making the short drive into the city. Known as the “Garden City”, Christchurch blends English heritage with a creative, revitalised urban scene. Spend the afternoon at leisure exploring the Botanic Gardens, riverside precinct or local cafés, or simply relax after your journey.

    Driving time: • Airport to city: approx. 20 minutes

    Accommodation: • The Classic Villa, Christchurch – 4★ Boutique Hotel

    Meals included: • None

    Included activities: • Rental car collection

    Optional activities: • Christchurch city sightseeing • Punting on the Avon River • Christchurch Gondola

  • Day 3

    Christchurch to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

    Today you drive south through the Canterbury Plains and into the Southern Alps. Pass turquoise Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki before arriving in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand’s highest peak. The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic as glaciers, alpine rivers and snow-capped mountains dominate the landscape.

    Driving time: • Approx. 4.5–5 hours

    Accommodation: • The Hermitage Hotel, Mount Cook – 4★ Scenic Alpine Hotel (Mount Cook View Room)

    Meals included: • Breakfast

    Included activities: • Scenic self-drive through Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki

    Optional activities: • Tasman Glacier Boat Tour • Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre • Big Sky Stargazing

  • Day 4

    Mount Cook National Park

    A full day to explore one of New Zealand’s most spectacular national parks. Choose from gentle alpine walks, glacier viewpoints or optional guided experiences. With some of the darkest skies in the world, Mount Cook is also a haven for stargazing.

    Driving time: • Minimal / at leisure

    Accommodation: • The Hermitage Hotel, Mount Cook – 4★

    Meals included: • None

    Included activities: • Free time for walking tracks and viewpoints

    Optional activities: • Guided day hikes • Glacier Explorer boat tour • Scenic helicopter flights

  • Day 5

    Mount Cook to Te Anau

    Depart the alpine region and travel south via Lake Ohau and the Mackenzie Basin before reaching Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Set on the edge of Lake Te Anau, this charming lakeside town is the perfect base for exploring Milford Sound.

    Driving time: • Approx. 4.5–5 hours

    Accommodation: • Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas – 4★ Lake View Room

    Meals included: • None

    Included activities: • Scenic self-drive

    Optional activities: • Te Anau Glowworm Caves • Lakeside walks

  • Day 6

    Milford Sound Day Trip

    Sit back and relax on a small-group coach journey into Fiordland National Park, stopping frequently for short walks and photo opportunities. Cruise through Milford Sound beneath towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, enjoying onboard commentary and a packed lunch. Weather enhances the experience – sunshine or rain both create unforgettable scenery.

    Driving time: • None (coach excursion)

    Accommodation: • Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Villas – 4★

    Meals included: • Packed lunch

    Included activities: • Milford Sound coach tour • Milford Sound scenic cruise

    Optional activities: • None

  • Day 7

    Te Anau to Queenstown

    Drive through rolling countryside and along Lake Wakatipu to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital. This evening, enjoy a memorable lake cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a gourmet BBQ dinner in a stunning lakeside setting.

    Driving time: • Approx. 2 hours

    Accommodation: • Browns Boutique Hotel, Queenstown – 4★ Boutique Hotel

    Meals included: • Dinner (Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ)

    Included activities: • TSS Earnslaw cruise • Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ dinner

    Optional activities: • Skyline Gondola • Wine tasting tours

  • Day 8

    Queenstown

    Enjoy a full free day in Queenstown. Whether you prefer relaxation or adrenaline, the choice is yours. Explore the lakeside, take a scenic cruise, enjoy boutique shopping or sample one of the region’s many wineries.

    Driving time: • Minimal / at leisure

    Accommodation: • Browns Boutique Hotel, Queenstown – 4★

    Meals included: • Breakfast

    Included activities: • Free time

    Optional activities: • Jet boating • Bungy jumping • Arrowtown visit • Central Otago wine tour

  • Day 9

    Queenstown to Wanaka

    Travel over the Crown Range, New Zealand’s highest sealed road, with breathtaking alpine views. Arrive in Wanaka, a laid-back lakeside town known for its relaxed atmosphere and spectacular scenery.

    Driving time: • Approx. 1.5 hours

    Accommodation: • Edgewater Resort, Wanaka – 4★ Lakeside Resort

    Meals included: • None

    Included activities: • Scenic mountain drive

    Optional activities: • Lake Wanaka cruise • Short walks around the lake

  • Day 10

    Wanaka to Franz Josef Glacier

    Journey west through changing landscapes as dry alpine terrain gives way to lush rainforest. Cross the Haast Pass before reaching Franz Josef Glacier village on the wild West Coast.

    Driving time: • Approx. 4.5 hours

    Accommodation: • Rainforest Retreat, Franz Josef – 4★ Deluxe Tree Lodge

    Meals included: • None

    Included activities: • Scenic self-drive via Haast Pass

    Optional activities: • Glacier viewpoints • Hot pools

  • Day 11

    Franz Josef Glacier

    Today’s highlight is an unforgettable heli-hike experience. Fly by helicopter onto the glacier and explore dramatic ice formations on a guided hike, surrounded by towering peaks and vivid blue ice.

    Driving time: • Minimal

    Accommodation: • Rainforest Retreat, Franz Josef – 4★

    Meals included: • None

    Included activities: • Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

    Optional activities: • Scenic helicopter flights • West Coast wildlife tours

  • Day 12

    Franz Josef to Punakaiki

    Continue north along the rugged West Coast, passing coastal scenery and rainforest before reaching Punakaiki. Visit the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes, best viewed at high tide.

    Driving time: • Approx. 3.5–4 hours

    Accommodation: • Scenic Hotel Punakaiki – 4★ Beachview Studio

    Meals included: • None

    Included activities: • Pancake Rocks & Blowholes walk

    Optional activities: • Coastal walks • Paparoa National Park trails

  • Day 13

    Punakaiki to Nelson

    Travel north through remote West Coast landscapes before crossing into the sunny Nelson region. Known for its beaches, wineries and creative arts scene, Nelson is a relaxed and vibrant destination.

    Driving time: • Approx. 4.5–5 hours

    Accommodation: • The Sails Nelson – 4★ Studio Suite

    Meals included: • None

    Included activities: • Scenic self-drive

    Optional activities: • Nelson wineries • Local art galleries

  • Day 14

    Abel Tasman National Park

    Enjoy a flexible cruise-and-walk experience in Abel Tasman National Park. Choose how far you wish to walk along golden beaches and turquoise bays, rejoining the boat later in the day.

    Driving time: • Nelson to Kaiteriteri: approx. 1 hour

    Accommodation: • The Sails Nelson – 4★

    Meals included: • None

    Included activities: • Abel Tasman Cruise & Walk Open Day Pass

    Optional activities: • Sea kayaking • Extended coastal walks

  • Day 15

    Nelson Departure

    Your journey concludes today. Depending on your onward travel plans, you may return your vehicle in Nelson or continue your New Zealand adventure.

    Driving time: • Nelson to airport: approx. 15 minutes

    Accommodation: • None

    Meals included: • None

    Included activities: • Rental car return

    Optional activities: • Additional nights in Nelson • Extension to the North Island

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Comfortable to Premium standard. Mix of boutique hotels, scenic lodges and nature-focused stays.

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 3, Lunches: 1, Dinners: 1

    Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.

    Vegetarian options available

  • Local Guide

    Self Guided

  • Wifi

    Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.

Dates & Prices

  • Feb 2026

    from £1,731

  • Mar 2026

    from £1,731

  • Apr 2026

    from £1,731

  • Oct 2026

    from £1,731

  • Nov 2026

    from £1,731

  • Dec 2026

    from £1,731

  • Feb 2027

    from £1,731

  • Mar 2027

    from £1,731

  • Apr 2027

    from £1,731

  • Oct 2027

    from £1,731

  • Nov 2027

    from £1,731

  • Dec 2027

    from £1,731

Essential trip information

Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.

Frequently asked questions

  • Is this trip suitable for first-time visitors to New Zealand?

    Yes. This itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors as it covers the South Island’s most iconic regions, including Mount Cook, Milford Sound, Queenstown, glaciers and Abel Tasman National Park, all at a comfortable pace with excellent accommodation.

  • Is this a guided tour or a self-drive holiday?

    This is a self-drive holiday with a detailed itinerary and pre-booked accommodation and experiences. You’ll enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace, with key highlights such as the Milford Sound cruise and glacier heli-hike organised for you.

  • What type of car is included?

    The trip includes a compact SUV (such as a Mazda CX-30 or similar) on an all-inclusive basis, with unlimited kilometres, damage waiver and excess reduction to nil. This vehicle is well suited to New Zealand’s roads and changing terrain.

  • How much driving is involved?

    Driving distances are manageable and broken up with scenic stops. Most driving days are between 2 and 5 hours, with longer journeys rewarded by some of New Zealand’s most spectacular scenery. Roads are well maintained and clearly signposted.

  • Do I need previous experience driving in New Zealand?

    No previous experience is required, but drivers should be comfortable driving on the left-hand side. New Zealand roads are generally quiet outside cities, and the compact SUV offers good visibility and comfort.

  • What meals are included?

    Included meals are limited to allow flexibility: 3 breakfasts 1 packed lunch (Milford Sound cruise) 1 gourmet BBQ dinner (Walter Peak, Queenstown) Most accommodation is room-only, giving you the freedom to explore local cafés and restaurants.

  • What standard of accommodation can I expect?

    Accommodation is comfortable to premium (4★) throughout and includes boutique hotels, scenic lodges and nature-based retreats chosen for location and character rather than large chain hotels.

  • Is the glacier heli-hike suitable for everyone?

    The Franz Josef Glacier heli-hike is suitable for most active travellers with a reasonable level of fitness. All specialist equipment is provided. Please note this is a weather-dependent activity and involves inherent risks, which will be fully explained by the operator.

  • What happens if weather affects an activity?

    Weather can occasionally impact activities such as the glacier heli-hike or Milford Sound cruise. If an activity is cancelled due to weather, alternatives or refunds will be offered according to local supplier policies.

  • What is the best time of year to do this trip?

    This itinerary works well from October to April: Summer (Dec–Feb): Warmer weather, longer days Spring & Autumn: Fewer crowds, dramatic scenery Winter departures are possible but may require adjustments due to alpine road conditions.

  • How fit do I need to be?

    Optional activities, fuel, most meals and personal expenses are not included. Road tolls are minimal, and there are no surprise compulsory payments during the trip.

  • Can this itinerary be customised?

    Yes. The itinerary can b customised to your preference and tases. Also, nights can be added, accommodation upgraded, activities adjusted or flights included from the UK. This trip can also be extended to include the North Island.

  • How long should I allow including flights from the UK?

    Including international flights, most travellers should allow 16–17 days door-to-door from the UK.

  • Is travel insurance required?

    Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses and adventure activities is mandatory for travel in New Zealand.
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