30 Days Length and Breadth of New Zealand self drive tour

Ask our expert Chris Hawkins about the 30 Days Length and Breadth of New Zealand self drive tour

Day 1
Private transfer Auckland airport. A private transfer will meet you from your flight and drive you to your Auckland accommodation.

Auckland City
Auckland City is New Zealand's largest, with a population of around 1.5 million people (about one third of the national population), spread over approximately 60 square kilometres. There is somewhere for every visitor to feel comfortable and right at home as each suburb has its own unique style and atmosphere, from the vibrant and trendy fashion and cuisine found on Ponsonby and Parnell Roads to the breathtaking native bush and beaches of the West Coast. One of the worlds great cities Auckland is full of life and opportunities to explore are endless. Spend the day exploring the city or relaxing before your adventure begins.
Your accommodation: Barrycourt Suites & Hotel

Day 2
Pick up your rental car. Rental Car - Mitsubishi Colt compact auto or similar
Explore Auckland and surrounds

There is so much to do in and around New Zealand's largest city. Sitting on one of the world's finest natural harbours there are countless opportunities to explore the islands of the gulf. Waiheke Island is a popular choice with its splendid beaches and vineyards. Just a short distance from the city centre is Rangitoto Island, the youngest of the volcanic cones that dot the region. Take a ferry over and enjoy the hike to the summit.
Your accommodation: Barrycourt Suites & Hotel

Day 3
A uckland to Paihia, Bay of Islands
Heading north to the Bay of Islands normally takes around 3 ½ hours but plan to take a little longer. The township of Puhoi, New Zealand’s only Bohemian settlement, the art stores and cafes of Warkworth, the harbour side in Whangarei and the unique township of Kawakawa are all worth exploring. Arriving into the sub tropical Bay of Islands you are greeted with bush clad hillsides dropping to golden sand beaches. Paihia is the main tourist centre in the bay and has a great beach side atmosphere.
Your accommodation: Casa Bella Motel
The Casa Bella Motel is situated on a quiet Waterfront block and is located near restaurants, shops and the wharf. Facilities include a heated pool, spa and tennis court.    

Driving Information
Auckland to Bay of Islands Distance
242 kilometres : 3 1/2 hours

Day 4 
Explore the Bay of Islands
A visit to the Bay of Islands wouldn't be complete without a cruise amongst the islands or even a trip to swim with the dolphins. Waitangi, just a few kilometres north of Paihia is considered the most important historical site of modern New Zealand. It was here that the Treaty of Waitangi was prepared and signed between the Crown and Maori. The visitor centre tells its ongoing story and is set in beautiful gardens and grounds.
Russell Township, on the other side of the bay is full of history and stories from its days as the 'hell hole of the Pacific'. This was the countries first busy port and capital. Fernz Eco Tours offer guided tours that include exploring the bush and beaches, local food and wine and the local Maori culture.
Your accommodation: Casa Bella Motel

Day 5   
Bay of Islands to Waipoua Forest to Warkworth
Heading west from the Bay of Islands you leave the Pacific Ocean and soon and arrive into the Hokianga and the wilder seas of the Tasman.
The small townships of Omapere and Opononi have a great seaside feel and the perfect place to stop for an ice cream. The route now heads south and into the Waipoua Forest, home to the massive Kauri trees. Make sure you allow time to take a few short walks that are signposted as you pass through the region. Not to be missed is the 5 minute loop to view the largest of all the trees Tane Mahuta. 
Heading back across country the Matakohe Kauri Museum is an award winning museum and has extensive displays of the regions logging, farming and social history. Just a short drive from Warkworth towards the coast is the small township of Matakana and a little further you will find the often deserted beaches of the Tawharanui Marine Reserve.
Your accommodation: Snells Beach Motels
Snells Beach Motel is perfectly situated, on the Mahurangi East Peninsula, overlooking the beautiful Kawau Bay and in the heart of the wonderful Matakana Coast Wine Country area.    

Driving Information
Bay of Islands to Waipoua Forest Distance
115 kilometres : 1 3/4 hours

Waipoua Forest to Warkworth Distance
170 kilometres : 2 1/4 hours

Day 6
Warkworth to Coromandel Township
Head south along the Hibiscus Coast and through New Zealand largest city on State Highway 1. Once you leave the Auckland City boundaries the landscape changes to rolling lush farmland. The fertile Hauraki Plains are one of New Zealand's largest dairy producing regions. The Thames Estuary is a haven for wildlife in particular shore birds and a short detour to Miranda (well sign posted) is worthwhile to see the large flocks of godwits and oyster catchers amongst others. Arriving into the old gold town of Thames you can choose 2 different routes to the Coromandel's east coast. Straight over the Coromandel Ranges on highway 25A will deliver you to the coast in around 45 minutes. The more scenic route however takes you north to Coromandel Township along the Pohutukawa Coast (part of the Pacific Coast Highway). This is one of the most spectacular drives in the region and not to be missed.
Your accommodation: Coromandel Court Motel
The Motels are in an excellent location with just a 3-minute stroll to shops and restaurants. Well equipped to ensure a comfortable stay.    

Driving Information
Warkworth to Coromandel Township Distance
231 kilometres : 3 hours 20 minutes

Day 7
Coromandel Township to Tairua
The Coromandel Peninsular region extends from Waihi in the south to Port Jackson in the north. The Coromandel ranges run the length of the peninsular and provide some of the most dramatic bush clad mountain scenery in the North Island. The tallest peak is Mt. Te Aroha at 953 metres.
When gold was discovered in the ranges in the 1850's the population of the area, Coromandel Township in particular, grew very quickly as miners followed the gold rushes of the era. Today there are still known deposits of gold, silver, lead and zinc throughout the ranges but residents and conservationists are unlikely to allow any form of exploitation of the region. Remote towns, isolated bays and a rich history of pioneers and fortune hunters make this one of the more diverse regions to explore.
The west coast of the peninsular drops to the Firth of Thames with steep pohutakawa clad cliffs while the east coast has an abundance of golden sand beaches and inlets.
Heading down the east coast you pass through the town of Whitianga and from here you can take the small foot ferry over to Cooks Beach and Flaxmill Bay. A little further south is the famous Hot Water Beach and the holiday town of Hahei. Cathedral Cove is a popular walk and is well worth the effort to view the massive limestone formation aptly named on the golden sand beach. Tairua is also a great location and Paku Hill offers spectacular views over the natural harbour and the Pacific Ocean.
Your accommodation: Blue Water Motel
Centrally located in the great little town of Tairua and just three minutes walk to restaurants, shops and children's playground and 100 m to Harbour Beach.    

Driving Information
Coromandel Township to Tairua Distance
86 kilometres : 1 1/4 hours

Day 8
Tairua to Rotorua
Heading south from the Coromandel Peninsular you pass through the seaside town of Whangamata. A popular location for Kiwi holidaymakers the town boasts one of the best beaches in the region. The old mining town of Waihi still has an operating open cast gold mine and you can view the workings of the Martha Mine from a vantage point signposted from the town centre. For rail enthusiasts the Goldfields Railway operates passenger trains along a scenic and historic section of track towards Waikino.
The route now takes you into the Bay of Plenty and the port town of Tauranga before you head aong the scenic Pyes Pa Road to Rotorua. For Lord of the Rings fans a detour to Matamata is recommended as this is the location of Hobbiton.
Arriving into Rotorua from the north you are welcomed with some great views of the lake.
Your accommodation: Fenton Court Motel
The Fenton Court Motel is central to a wide range of tourist attractions, cultural experiences, exciting adventure activities, great trout fishing, world-class golfing, hiking and nature tours.    

Driving Information
Tairua to Rotorua Distance
250 kilometres : 3 1/2 hours

Day 9
Explore Rotorua and surrounds
Rotorua sits right in the centre of the worlds most volcanically active region and this is highly evident through the smell of sulphur. No visit to Rotorua would be complete without visiting one of the many geothermal parks or areas. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is around 30 minutes from Rotorua and here a network of paths will take you though bubbling pool, sulphur ponds, geysers and waterfalls. Formed during the eruption of Mt. Tarawera was the Waimangu Volcanic Valley and you can also stroll amongst hot springs and enjoy a short boat cruise in the world's newest geothermal eco system.
The Buried Village or the village of Te Wairoa was destroyed during the Tarawera eruption. Now this registered historic area has been excavated to show original buildings pre eruption. Set amongst beautiful bush there is also a dedicated museum telling the fascinating story of Te Wairoa Village and the legendary Pink and White Terraces.
White Island sits around 40 kilometres off the Bay of Plenty coast and is still one the most active volcanoes in the world. Volcanic Air Safaris offer scenic helicopter and float plane trips to the island and the opportunity to land (helicopter only) and explore the original sulphur mines. They also offer scenic flights over Mt. Tarawera and float plane flights to Orakei Korako Hidden Valley.
Rotorua though also offers much more than this. The lake is stocked with trout and fishing charters operate from the lake front. The Agrodome offers a unique New Zealand experience combining farm tours and sheep shearing shows with the opportunity to enjoy some of the adrenalin packed adventures New Zealand is renown for.
Your accommodation: Fenton Court Motel

Day 10
Rotorua to Napier
This drive takes you through the thermal regions south of Rotorua. Wai-O-Tapu, Waimangu and Craters of the Moon near Taupo to name just a few locations you can visit. Approaching Taupo signs direct you to Huka Falls, a spectacular sight as the full force of the lake pours through a narrow gorge forming the Waikato River. Here you can take a thrilling Hukajet boat ride or enjoy a lunch of fresh prawns raised in naturally heated thermal pools.  The road from Taupo climbs high onto the plateau crossing the Ahiminawa Range before arriving onto the Pacific Coast just north of the worlds finest art deco city of Napier.
Your accommodation: Pebble Beach Motor Inn, Napier
Pebble Beach Motor Inn offers luxurious ocean front accommodation situated perfectly on the Napier's Marine Parade. Just a stroll from the many attractions, restaurants and cafes.    

Driving Information
Rotorua to Napier Distance
223 kilometres : 3 1/4 hours

Day 11
Explore Napier and the Hawke's Bay
The Hawke's Bay is home to some of New Zealand finest wineries and there are ample tours to show you around while you sample the produce. Napier has a remarkable history. Destroyed by an earthquake it was rebuilt at the height of the art deco period and the city is teeming with fine buildings.
Enjoy a city tour in a car from the era or explore the museum. Cape Kidnappers is home to one of the few mainland gannet colonies and a trip along the beach by tractor is a unique way to see these incredible birds in their natural habitat.
Your accommodation: Pebble Beach Motor Inn, Napier

Day 12
Napier to Martinborough
The rolling countryside of the Hawke's Bay lead you into some of the countries richest farmland around the Manawatu region. Passing along the Manawatu Gorge the Wairarapa welcomes you. Masterton is home to the golden shears sheep shearing competition while just further south Greytown boasts the largest concentration of historic wooden buildings in the country. Nearby Martinborough is home to dozens of boutique wineries.
Your accommodation: The Claremont, Martinborough
Set just outside the main village, The Claremont is the ideal base for you to enjoy everything the region has to offer. Well appointed self contained apartments and units will make your stay very comfortable.    

Driving Information
Napier to Martinborough Distance
285 kilometres : 4 hours

Day 13
Martinborough to Wellington City
Crossing the Rimutaka Ranges you drop towards the impressive deep water harbour and Wellington City. Wellington is home to a selection of great museums such as Te Papa, New Zealand's national museum (not to be missed), The National Library and the Museum of Wellington City and Sea. For some great views of the city and the harbour take the Cable Car from Lambton Quay up into the hills of Kelburn, 130 metres above the city. The ride terminates in the botanic gardens, a 26 hectare park with rose, fern, succulents, exotic trees and native forest displays.
Another great vantage point is Mt. Victoria. If you're felling energetic take a stroll along the waterfront cafes of oriental bay and walk to the top of the hill. Great views across to the Hutt Valley can be enjoyed. The cannon on the summit dates back to 1877.
Wellington has excellent shopping, theatre, cafes and restaurants and being only 2 kilometres wide the majority can easily be explored on foot. The capital's proximity to the sea, the mountains of the Rimutakas and Tararuas, the rolling countryside and wine regions of the Wairarapa provide a myriad of opportunities for adventure or relaxation. At just a kilometres across its centre the city is ideal to explore on foot.
Your accommodation: City Life Wellington
City Life Wellington is a suite style hotel providing accommodation of impeccable standard. Designed and built to provide access to the best New Zealand's capital can offer.    

Driving Information
Martinborough to Wellington Distance
90 kilometres : 1 1/4 hours

Day 14   
Interislander ferry Wellington to Picton

Drop off rental Car
The 92 km journey between Wellington and Picton takes around 3 hours and has been described as 'one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world'. Leaving Wellington Harbour you pass many interesting points such as Pencarrow Head on top of which is New Zealand's oldest lighthouse (1859). Red Rocks is home to a seal colony and Oterangi Bay is the site which recorded the countries highest ever wind speed of 268 kph (167 mph). From the Cook Strait spectacular views of the Kaikoura Ranges on the South Island can be enjoyed and dolphins and many sea birds are often seen. Around one hour of the cruise takes you through the Marlborough Sounds. This region of bush covered mountains, small islands, crystal clear waters and secluded bays is a true photographic opportunity. Arriving in Picton at the end of Queen Charlotte Sound the cruise comes to an end in this picturesque town.

Pick up Rental Car - Mitsubishi Colt compact auto or similar at other end in Picton
  
Wellington to Nelson and Abel Tasman National Park

After dropping your rental car at the Wellington ferry terminal you board the Interislander Ferry what is often described as a cruise rather than a ferry crossing. After leaving Wellington harbour, one hour to cross the Strait and then the glorious Marlborough Sounds.
Arriving into the port town of Picton collect your South Island rental car and head along Queen Charlotte Drive as it skirts the sounds towards Havelock. Crossing the Bryant Range you arrive onto Tasman Bay and the city of Nelson.
Mapua and Motueka are around 45 minutes further around the bay putting you in a great position to explore beautiful Abel Tasman National Park.
Your accommodation: Ocean View Chalets, Marahau
The Ocean View Chalets are situated on a 50-acre farmlet, slightly elevated and nestled along the bushline offer panoramic seaviews towards the islands, Tasman Bay, Abel Tasman National Park and rural farmland. Great access the National Park and close to the friendly Marahau village.    

Driving Information
Picton to Nelson Distance
113 kilometres : 1 1/2 hours

Nelson to Marahau Distance
63 kilometres : 45 minutes

Day 15 
Abel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman is renowned for its golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and its world-famous coastal track. It also has a mild climate and is a great place to visit at any time of the year. The main attractions in the park are walking, sea kayaking and enjoying its many beaches.
Wilsons Abel Tasman have been showing off the park to visitors for many years and their range of self guided cruise and walks has something to suit everyone. Enjoy a scenic cruise along the coast to a beautiful bay and after being dropped off enjoy the coastal track to the next bay where you will be collected from at a predetermined time.
Sea Kayaking is also a popular way of exploring the region and Wilsons also operate a kayak, seals and walk trip. Using stable double kayaks these trips are suitable for anyone.
For a more in depth tour of the park by kayak then the Beaches and Bays Guided Sea Kayak tour may be the answer.
Your accommodation: Ocean View Chalets, Marahau

Day 16  
Abel Tasman National Park to Kaikoura
The drive takes you through Marlborough, New Zealand's largest wine growing region and the centre of the region Blenheim. Timing your day to arrive at lunch time with the view to sampling some of the locally produced wines at one of the 40 wineries is a good idea. Crossing the ‘dry hills’ of the Marlborough ranges you head towards one of the most spectacular coastlines of the South Island, the Kaikoura Coast. The road hugs the shore for around 50 kilometres and offers many chances to view the native wildlife such as seabirds and New Zealand fur seals. To the east is the turquoise of the South Pacific Ocean and to the west the towering Kaikoura Ranges. Kaikoura Township is a bustling little place with many cafés, restaurants and shops but the main reason for visiting here is the wildlife. Its one of the few places in the world where whales can be seen all year round.
Your accommodation: Anchor Inn Motel
The Anchor Inn is a "5 star" rated luxury motel superbly located on the Kaikoura waterfront with most rooms enjoying magnificent sea and mountain views.    

Driving Information
Marahau to Nelson Distance
63 kilometres : 45 minutes

Nelson to Kaikoura Distance
245 kilometres : 3 1/2 hours

Day 17
Kaikoura
Kaikoura is renowned for its wildlife and this is the main reason most visitors venture here. The seas along the coast offer a plentiful food supply for whales, seals and dolphins and these magnificent animals can be observed all year round. Seals are the easiest animals to view with a colony at the tip of the peninsular and many basking along the coast road. Whale Watch Kaikoura operate 4 hour excursions by boat to view the marine wildlife and you will have around a 95% chance of spotting a whale.
If you don't enjoy the sea then Wings over Whales can also take you wildlife spotting on a 30 minute scenic flight. Another great local acitivity is to swim with the resident seal population and Seal Swim Kaikoura operate both land based and boat based trips.
Of course there are many other great reasons to visit Kaikoura; the township has a great feel with lots of small shops, cafes and restaurants and not to be missed is a crayfish meal - the towns signature dish. Fyffe House along the peninsular road gives an interesting insight into the original settlers lives while a little further out you can enjoy hiking, quad biking, mountain biking and golf to mention just a few activities. Its the scenery here that always steals the show though with some of the best coastal views in the country.
Your accommodation: Anchor Inn Motel
The Anchor Inn is a "5 star" rated luxury motel superbly located on the Kaikoura waterfront with most rooms enjoying magnificent sea and mountain views.    

Day 18 
Kaikoura to Christchurch
The drive from Kaikoura to Christchurch continues to follow the spectacular coastline before heading inland and through North Canterbury’s major wine region, the Waipara Valley. You are also introduced you to the South Island’s most numerous inhabitant, the sheep. A great detour to take is the side trip to Hanmer Springs for a relaxing dip in the thermal pools.
Arriving into Christchurch City puts you close to the airport and the International Antarctic Centre and a visit is highly recommended. Here you can get as close to experiencing life on the frozen continent without actually visiting plus see New Zealand little blue penguins and ride in a Haaglund Tracked vehicle.
Your accommodation: Camelot Motor Lodge
The Camelot Motor Lodge offers superbly equipped and affordable accommodation just a short stroll from the city centre.    

Driving Information
Kaikoura to Christchurch Distance
183 kilometres : 2 1/2 hours

Day 19
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.
Your accommodation: Camelot Motor Lodge

Day 20
Christchurch to Mt. Cook National Park
Today you head into the heart of the South Island. Crossing the vast Canterbury Plains along the inland scenic route the first township of Geraldine offers an ideal refreshment stop before you head into Mackenzie country.
Passing through places such as Beautiful Valley it's not hard to understand where the names originate. Ascending Burkes Pass and onto the high country plateau and the picturesque town of Lake Tekapo, the first of the large Southern Lakes. 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.
Lake Pukaki is just another 30 minutes from Lake Tekapo and its from here you can be rewarded with spectacular views the full length of the lake and into Mt. Cook National Park. 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.
Your accommodation: Hermitage Motels
The Hermitage Motels 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
Christchurch to Mt. Cook Distance
342 Kilometres: 4 1/2 hours:

Day 21
Mt . Cook National Park to Dunedin
Twizel, just south of Mt. Cook was the location of many Lord of the Rings movie scenes and a little further on is Omarama, the gliding capital of New Zealand. Wrinkly Rams is a local café and also offers an informative sheep shearing demonstration. Heading down the Waitaki valley you follow the hydro power generating system towards the east coast.
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. Further south the Moeraki Boulders are a unique geological feature and worth the short detour to the beach to view.
Arriving into Dunedin you can appreciate the city's Edwardian and Scottish heritage through its fine buildings particularly around the Octagon and city centre.
Your accommodation: Cable Court Motel
Situated in the heart of Dunedin, Cable Court Motel offers quality self conatined accommodation close to the city centre. Only a ten minute walk to the Octagon, restaurants, cafes and bars.    

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

Day 22
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.
Your accommodation: Cable Court Motel

Day 23
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: Lakefront Lodge Te Anau
Stylish self contained motel units less than one minute walk from Te Anau Lakefront. Close to shops, cafes and restaurants.    

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

Day 24
Te Anau to Milford Sound
The Milford Road
Countless photo opportunities and short walks mean this drive should not be rushed. The Mirror Lakes create perfectly clear reflections of the surrounding mountains and glacier formed meadows and ancient native beech forest create a unique and fascinating landscape. The Homer Tunnel is an incredible engineering feat at 1219 metres long. The road slopes towards Milford at a rate of 1 in 10. The chasm (a short 15 minute walk) demonstrates the incredible power water has as it continues to shape and carve the valley. Most stops and points of interest are well signposted on the 121 kilometre road but don't underestimate how long this drive will take you with scenic stops.
Milford Sound
Milford Sound is the best known of the sounds that lie throughout Fiordland National Park and is also the only fiord accessible by road. Sheer cliffs starting hundreds of metres below the waters surface rise spectacularly to the sky. It is 16 kilometres from the head of the fiord to the open sea and Real Journeys cruise vessels will take you there and back comfortably in around 2 hours. Dolphins and seals can often be seen, and following a large downpour the waterfalls that line the fiords are magnificent, particularly the 146 metre high Stirling Falls.
Milford Sound Nature Cruise
An extended and leisurely 2½ hour cruise of Milford Sound on board the Milford Mariner or Milford Wanderer. These modern vessels, purpose built for operating in a fiord environment, have been designed along the lines of a traditional trading scow, and have real character. These relaxing cruises have special appeal for the independent traveler and an on board nature guide provides detailed interpretation and commentary.. There is plenty of time available to explore points of interest and to view the stunning scenery, including waterfalls, rainforest and the towering peaks. Keep a lookout for dolphins, seals and penguins.
Your accommodation: Lakefront Lodge Te Anau

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

Day 25
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.
Your accommodation: Garden Court Suites and Apartments
The Garden Court Suites and Apartments are located just four minutes walk from the heart of Queenstown and enjoy superb lake and mountain views from its courtyards and balconies.    

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

Day 26   E
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: Garden Court Suites and Apartments 

Day 27
Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier
Crossing the Crown Range, the highest sealed road in the country, you arrive into the alpine town of Wanaka. The route follows the shores of Lakes Wanaka and Hawea before you enter the township of Makarora, the gateway to Mt. Aspiring National Park and the Blue Pools here are a wonderful 30 minute walk through pristine native beech forest. Descending into Mt. Aspiring National Park and towards the Haast Pass, crashing rivers and waterfalls are around every corner. Crossing the Haast River you are now truly on the wild West Coast, a 600 kilometre stretch of bush, rainforest and podocarp forest. First Fox Glacier welcomes you to the glacier region and Franz Josef township is just a further 45 minutes.
A great way to experience the glaciers is with The Helicopter Line or Mt. Cook ski planes or in the township the Hukawai Glacier Centre offers an informative display and the chance to experience real ice climbing.
Your accommodation: Punga Grove motel & suites
Punga Grove is right in the heart of Franz Josef Glacier village and offers affordable and stylish accommodation in a beautiful rainforest setting.    

Driving Information
Queenstown to Franz Josef Distance
404 kilometres : 5 3/4 hours

Day 28
Explore Franz Josef Glacier
The main attraction in Franz Josef is of course the glacier. Very few places in the world have such large glaciers almost at sea level and even more unusually is that the lower slopes are amongst rain forest.
Franz Josef Glacier Guides have a great choice of guided interpretive walks to and on the glacier. While you can walk without a guide along the valley floor you must take a licensed tour to get any closer than 100 metres of the glacier. The tours offered are an interpretive Valley Walk (3 hours), a Half Day (4 1/2 hours) hike including around 1 1/2 hours on the lower glacier, a Full Day (7-8 hours) adventure onto the ice and for the very adventurous a full day of Ice Climbing. All equipment is provided for these tours.
One of the most popular ways to experience the glaciers though is on a Helihike. A Scenic helicopter flight delivers you to the upper slopes where a guide then accompanies you for around 2 hours over the ice flows, caves and crevasses.
Other scenic flights with short lacier landings are available with The Helicopter Line and Mt. Cook Ski Planes offer unique ski equipped fixed wing aircraft landings.
The township, although small, has a lively atmosphere during its busy seasons and there is plenty of choice to dine out and reflect on your days adventure.
Your accommodation: Punga Grove motel & suites

Day 29
Franz Josef to Greymouth Train Station
The drive north from Franz Josef takes you through the historic gold mining region of Ross and the town of Hokitika, a great place to explore the craft stores, in particular the jade or greenstone. The largest town on the West Coast, Greymouth is also the starting point for the Tranz Alpine Scenic Train. Drop your rental car at the depot (located at the train station before checking in for your train journey.

Tranz Alpine Scenic train Greymouth to Christchurch
Considered one of the worlds great train journeys, the Tranz Alpine scenic train takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch, from the West Coast and the Tasman Sea to the east coast and the Pacific Ocean. From your carriage you'll see the spectacular Otira Valley and mountains of Arthur's Pass National Park and the Southern Alps. Rivers, waterfalls and lush beech forest followed by high country farmland whisk by before your journey follows the Waimakariri River and then onto the Canterbury Plains before arriving into Christchurch just after 6pm.
On arrival into Christchurch train station a private transfer will deliver you to your accommodation.
Private transfer Christchurch train station to your accommodation.
Your accommodation: Camelot Motor Lodge
The Camelot Motor Lodge offers superbly equipped and affordable accommodation just a short stroll from the city centre.    

Driving Information
Franz Josef to Greymouth Distance
177 kilometres : 2 1/2 hours

Day 30
Private transfer to Christchurch airport
You will be collected from your accommodation and a private transfer will deliver you to Christchurch airport in time for your departing flight.

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