14 Day Drive and Hike South Island self drive

Ask our expert Amy Smith about the 14 Day Drive and Hike South Island self drive

Day 1 
Welcome to Christchurch City
On arrival into Christchurch airport you will be met from your flight and a private transfer will deliver you to your accommodation. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. Christchurch City has much to offer visitors and Cathedral Square provides a great focal point. A great way to see some of the city centre sights and attractions though is by the famous historic trams. A 30 minute loop allows hop-on, hop-off at museums, art galleries, gardens and shops.
Your accommodation: Elizas Manor on Bealey
Eliza's Manor on Bealey B&B hotel offers bed & breakfast accommodation with personal service. Each bedroom combines historic ambience with modern conveniences to create a quality experience. This 4 star qualmark rated property is just 1 1/2 kilometres from Cathedral Square.    

Day 2
Collect your car from the Budget Rent a Car depot Christchurch City 
Toyota Corolla or similar

Explore Christchurch City and surrounds
Christchurch's compact city centre is best explored on foot or by taking the hop-on, hop-off historic trams.
Amongst the not to be missed attractions is the International Antarctic Centre. Christchurch is the base from which many Antarctic programmes host their supply operations. The International Antarctic Centre offers the visitor a unique insight into life on the frozen continent. You can view little blue penguins that have been rescued and given a new home as well as taking a ride in the impressive Haaglund tracked vehicle.
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve lets you experience New Zealand native birds including the kiwi, plus other animals up close.
Getting a little further out you can also enjoy a Christchurch Wildlife Cruise. Departing from Lyttelton this two hour trip offers you the chance to see the rare hectors dolphins in their natural environment.
For an evening like no other the Tamaki Heritage Village takes you back in time to the when European and Maori first met. This interactive outdoor theatre is designed to let you see, hear, smell and feel the atmosphere and tensions that arose during this time. The evening finishes off with a sumptuous and plentiful dinner prepared in the traditional Maori hangi style.

International Antarctic Centre
At the Antarctic Attraction their aim is to re-create the atmosphere and environment of Antarctica, providing visitors with an interactive, fun and exciting experience of the "Great White South". For most people this will be the closest they will be able to come to experiencing this continent. Experience the Four Seasons at Scott Base and the awesome forces of nature in the custom built polar room. Visit the penguin encounter and learn about the worlds smallest penguin. An informative display tells the story, past and present, of life here as well as displays on the wildlife that make the continent home. A exciting ride on one of the famous Haaglund Tracked vehicles gives you an idea of the terrain you might encounter.
Your accommodation: Elizas Manor on Bealey

Day 3  
Christchurch to Dunedin
Crossing the vast Canterbury Plains as you head South, State Highway 1 crosses many braided rivers that start their life as glacial melt water high in the Southern Alps. New Zealand's longest bridge at Rakaia crosses such an example. The towns of Timaru followed by Oamaru are worth a short detour to the town centre.
The town of Oamaru is most famous for its buildings constructed with the unique locally quarried white stone. Explore the old quarter or if you don't mind a late arrival into Dunedin then stay around to see the blue penguins come ashore at dusk.
Just a little further south and you arrive at Moeraki and its famous Moeraki Boulders. Following a look at these incredible and unique geological features don't miss taking a late lunch or coffee and cake at Fleur's Cafe in Moeraki Township. The last stretch of road follows the coastline before crossing the hills and descending into the city of Dunedin.
Your accommodation: Heriot House
This gracious old home is situated right in the heart of Dunedin. Only a casual stroll to shops and the local restaurants, bars and cafes. The quaint cottage garden has a pleasant charm that will draw you out of doors to inspect the treasures hidden from view.    

Driving Information
Christchurch to Dunedin Distance
361 kilometres : 5 1/4 hours

Day 4 
Explore Dunedin and the Otago Peninsular
Dunedin City Centre is full of grand and fascinating buildings and none more so that Dunedin Railway Station, recently listed as one of top 100 buildings in the world. From the station you can take a scenic train journey along the Taieri Gorge.
The Otago Peninsular is just a short drive from the city centre and offers some unique wildlife experiences. Here you can visit the only mainland Royal Albatross breeding colony in the world. The beaches and hillsides are also home to the yellow eyed penguin, the world's rarest penguin and seals, sea lions and a host of other bird life can be seen. Monarch Wildlife Cruises offer a choice of guided tours to explore the peninsular. New Zealand’s only castle, Larnach Castle, has spectacular views from its extensive gardens and also a fascinating history.

Monarch Wildlife Cruises full day Otago Peninsular Wildlife Tour
This premier package includes the full Otago Harbour and Taiaroa Head wildlife cruise, scenic Otago Peninsula bus tour, and guided tours of the Royal Albatross Colony, the Yellow Eyed Penguin Reserve and a visit to wading bird habitats. Also includes either a tour of Larnach Castle, one of Dunedin’s great landmarks or a visit to the New Zealand Marine Studies Centre with its absorbing display of local sealife.

Your accommodation: Heriot House

Day 5   
Dunedin to Te Anau
The drive to Te Anau takes you through classic Southland farmland scenery but if you want to spend the whole day exploring a little off the beaten path than taking the Southern Scenic Route through The Catlins is highly recommended. Following the incredible Otago coastline to Invercargill the route passes through the fishing town of Riverton and Colac Bay before heading north through Tuatapere and onto Manapouri. It's from here that you can embark on a day or overnight cruise to Doubtful Sound.
Just a little further north and you arrive into the lake side township of Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park and the world famous Milford Sound.
Your accommodation: Dunluce Bed and Breakfast
Dunluce offers boutique Bed and Breakfast accommodation with panoramic lake and mountain views. Situated in a quiet location Dunluce is an architecturally designed home with a private guest wing.    

Driving Information
Dunedin to Te Anau Distance
286 kilometres : 4 hours

Day 6
Milford Track Encounter guided day walk
Your day begins with a courtesy pick up from your Te Anau accommodation, followed by a short journey along the shores of Lake Te Anau to the Te Anau Downs boat harbour, before cruising for an hour to the spectacular northern end of the lake. Enjoy a hot drink on board with your guide. After disembarking at the start of the track we walk 1.6km (1 mile) to historic Glade House, one of the original Milford Track Lodges, dating back to the 1890's. Enjoy hot soup from the kitchen with your lunch, all included in your walk. From here the track follows the Clinton River as it meanders through rich Beech Forest for a further 3.2km (2 miles). Your guide will point out the birdlife and unique aspects of the valley, then take you off the track to show you a few places you might otherwise miss. For those who want a little more of a challenge there will be the option of returning via the Glade Burn track, giving you one final vista of Lake Te Anau before boarding the return launch.
Your accommodation: Dunluce Bed and Breakfast

Day 7   
Milford Sound including a Nature Cruise on the Sound
The Milford Road is equally as spectacular as the sound itself and so allow plenty of time to enjoy this. Arriving at Milford Marina you board a Real Journeys vessel for a 2 1/2 hour nature cruise on the famous Milford Sound before returning via the Milford Road to Te Anau. Plan to take the whole day to fully enjoy Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park.
Your accommodation: Dunluce Bed and Breakfast

Driving Information
Te Anau to Milford Return Distance
242 kilometres : 4 hours

Day 8
Te Anau to Queenstown
Crossing the rolling tussock lands you pass through Mossburn, the deer capital of New Zealand. On the southern shore of Lake Wakatipu sits Kingston, home to classic steam train, The Kingston Flyer. Following the lake north the Remarkable mountain range towers over you as you approach the adventure capital of Queenstown.

TSS Earnslaw cruise to Walter Peak including dinner and a farm tour
Enjoy a return scenic cruise from down town Queenstown to Walter Peak High Country Farm on board the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw.
On arrival at Walter Peak Station  enjoy a delicious carvery style buffet dinner featuring New Zealand specialities - succulent roast meats, fresh seafood, salads and vegetables. The traditional desserts are hard to resist. Following your meal you have the option of an entertaining farm show or relaxing in the bar before returning on board the TSS Earnslaw to Queenstown.

Your accommodation: Browns Boutique Hotel
Relax in the friendly and comfortable atmosphere of Queenstown's boutique accommodation complex. Designed along traditional European lines, this small intimate Hotel is only three minutes walk to the center of town and features stunning views of the Remarkables mountain range from every room.    

Driving Information
Te Anau to Queenstown Distance
186 kilometres : 2 3/4 hours

Day 9
Routeburn Track Encounter Guided Day Walk
The Routeburn Track traverses wild and scenic mountain country between the Hollyford and Dart Valleys at the base of New Zealand's Southern Alps. Since the 1880's the Routeburn Track has proved to be one of the most accessible and popular journeys into New Zealand's forests and mountains.
The Routeburn Encounter is a fully catered, guided one-day walk up the spectacular Routeburn Valley departing from and returning to Queenstown. It is an ideal trip for people who have limited time or are uncertain of their ability to do a longer hike.
Although there is some altitude gain (400m) to Routeburn Flats, the track is very well formed and of a good gradient. Average fitness is all that is required to complete the walk to Routeburn Flats and return. The 300m (1000 feet) climb to Routeburn Falls is somewhat tougher, but well within the abilities of the majority of our walkers. The return distance to Routeburn Flats is 13km (8 miles), adding the optional but recommended climb to Routeburn Falls makes a total return distance of 19km (11 miles).
Your accommodation: Browns Boutique Hotel

Day 10 
Explore Queenstown and surrounds
Queenstown offers adventure for all tastes and abilities. From some of the more well know adrenalin sports such as bungy jumping and skydiving to the more sedate such as sampling the local wines or exploring the historic Chinese settlement at Arrowtown, there is something for everyone.
Sitting on the shores of Lake Wakatipu there are many water based activities to enjoy. The TSS Earnslaw is a rare working example of a steamship still operating and cruises take you to Walter Peak Station to enjoy a farm tour, lunch or a farmhouse dinner. The Kawarua Jet offers a slightly faster experience with thrilling one hour jet boat rides. Fishing and sailing are also possible here.
The Gibbston Vallley is a short drive from Queenstown and it's here you will find the vineyards producing some of the finest wines in New Zealand, particularly the Pinot Noir. Appellation Wine Tours have a choice of tour options to ensure you get to experience the best and of course have the chance to sample the vintages.
Arrowtown is a popular destination for many visitors to Queenstown. This historic gold mining town features many original buildings and now also boasts some great shopping. The Lakes District Museum is also here and ranks as one of the best in the country.
Nomad Safaris offer 4WD excursions in and around Queenstown to otherwise difficult locations such as Skippers Canyon and Mace Town. Informative guides share theirs and other locals stories of the region.
At the Head of the Lake sits Glenorchy. The 40 kilometre drive along the lake edge is worth the trip alone however arriving into this peaceful township you could easily rest the day away sitting on the shores of the lake. A great trip from here is the Dart River Wilderness Safari, by far the most scenic jet boat excursion in the country. A short walk amongst native beech forest plus a 4WD bus journey is capped off with over 1 1/2 hours and around 35 kilometres of exhilarating jet boat action as you head deep into Mt. Aspiring National Park.
Your accommodation: Browns Boutique Hotel

Day 11
Queenstown to Mt. Cook National Park
The sheer cliffs of the Kawarau Gorge guide you towards Cromwell and along the Gibbston Valley, one of New Zealand's premier wine growing regions. At the famous historic Kawarau Bridge you can take a bungy jump or just watch others if you would rather. Cromwell sits at the head of the Kawarau Gorge. Cromwell old town has restored buildings from before the valley was flooded to create Lake Dunstan for the hydro systems.
Bendigo, just off the main highway, was one of Otago’s original gold mining settlements and well marked paths will guide you to explore the remains of stone cottages and other buildings from this bygone era.
The Lindis Pass is one of New Zealand’s highest roads with the summit reaching 971 metres. The tussock covered hills offer an unusual contrast as you pass from the Central Otago and onto the Mackenzie Basin.
The towns of Omarama and Twizel are the last stops before you arrive at Lake Pukaki and take the Mt. Cook Highway along the shores to the village.
In Mt. Cook Village a myriad of activities are available from glacier landings by ski plane or helicopter, kayaking on a glacial lake and a host of walks to suit all abilities and time frames. At The Hermitage Hotel the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre is a must see.

Mt. Cook Ski Planes Glacier Highlights Scenic Flight including Glacier Landing
After an awe inspiring flight through breathtaking scenery your ski equipped aircraft lands on one of the glaciers in the Mount Cook or Westland National Park, the engine is stopped, and you alight onto the glacier where climbers would take hours or days to reach. With the engine shut down you are able to experience the "natural quiet" of the mountains, broken only by the occasional avalanche or sounds from the glacier as it makes its way down the mountain.
Upon re-embarking an even more spectacular take off from the snow covered glacier is followed by the return flight to base hugging the other side of the valley with your pilot identifying points of interest including climber huts, icefalls, peaks, and occasional ski tourers and climbers, before you land back at your point of departure.
Approximately 40 minutes duration and includes 10 minute glacier landing.
This flight offers fantastic close up views of Aoraki Mount Cook, Mt Tasman and the Southern Alps from Aoraki Mount Cook National Park.
Your accommodation: Hermitage Chalets
The Hermitage Chalets are located in the centre of Mt. Cook village, around 800 metres from the main Hermitage Hotel. The self contained units are spacious and all are surrounded by alpine mountain views.    

Driving Information
Queenstown to Mt. Cook Distance
263 kilometres : 3 3/4 hours

Day 12 
Guided Wilderness Hikes
Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park is one of the best places in the world to witness the awesome power of the natural world. Your friendly, Discovery Tours guide will bring the landscape around you alive with the hidden secrets of our glaciology, geology, unique alpine flora and fauna that you may otherwise miss. Hear intriguing stories of early explorers that once followed the same trails you are hiking, and make this experience a highlight of your visit.
Get off the crowded walking tracks and the beaten track to get a totally different experience of the park with local guides who will share their favourite places with you. With a maximum of 7 people per day you will experience the personal service which makes these Guided Hikes so special.
You will be able to help to conserve this beautiful environment by participating in, or having part of your hiking fee, funding a conservation project. Conditions in alpine areas can change rapidly and there can be hidden dangers if you are not familiar with this area. Discovery Tours guides are familiar with these possible hazards.

Guided hike options include:

Wakefield Ridge Hike - approx. 6-7 hours.

Moderately high fitness needed, 700 to 900 meters total height gain. With no marked track, this offers the experience of solitude. The steep route becomes easier as you rise above the valleys to extensive vistas over the lower Tasman and Hooker Valleys down to the turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki.

East Hooker Hike - approx. 5-6 hours

Moderate fitness needed, 200 meters total height gain.
Experience the real beauty of the Hooker Valley by branching off the crowded walking track onto a route over ancient glacial moraines. Pass pure alpine streams on our easiest hike to get a closer view of the Hooker Glacier under the snow covered slopes of Aoraki/Mount Cook.

Your accommodation: Hermitage Chalets

Day 13 
Mt. Cook National Park to Christchurch

Your first stop today should be the visitor centre on the southern shores of Lake Pukaki. As well as a great presentation detailing the formation of the region over thousands of years you are also often rewarded with uninterrupted views of over 50 kilometres to the peak of Mt. Cook.
Lake Tekapo, the northern most of the large Southern Lakes also the reflective quality that Pukaki has making the waters a bright turquoise on certain days. This busy little township is home to some of the most photographed subjects in the country, the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Collie Dog statue. It's a great place to take a scenic flight, enjoy a guided horse trek, a boat trip on the pristine lake or just enjoy the magnificent views.
From here you descend from the high country through Burkes Pass and into rich farmland. Beautiful Valley guides you to the town of Geraldine before you cross the vast Canterbury Plains back towards Christchurch City.
Your accommodation: Elizas Manor on Bealey
Eliza's Manor on Bealey B&B hotel offers bed & breakfast accommodation with personal service. Each bedroom combines historic ambience with modern conveniences to create a quality experience. This 4 star qualmark rated property is just 1 1/2 kilometres from Cathedral Square.    

Driving Information
Mt. Cook to Christchurch Distance
331 kilometres : 4 3/4 hours

Day 14
Depart Christchurch today
Explore more of Christchurch before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.

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