Journey Details
Travel through the picturesque rolling green hills of Waitomo, where you’ll embark on a guided tour of an enchanting underground wonderland adorned with sparkling galaxies of glowworms. Next, head to Matamata for a delightful Hobbiton Movie Set tour. Explore the iconic Hobbit homes, lush gardens, and the famous Green Dragon Inn, just as they appear in the films. Conclude this visually captivating day by continuing to Rotorua, a unique geothermal destination filled with bubbling pools, steaming vents, and vibrant landscapes.

Overnight: Rotorua

Driving Distances

• Auckland to Waitomo: 195 km (approx. 2 hrs, 30 mins)
• Waitomo to Matamata: 102 km (approx. 1 hr, 20 mins)
• Matamata to Rotorua: 67 km (approx. 55 mins)

Included Activities

• Waitomo Glowworm Caves Guided Tour: Experience the magic of a subterranean world lit by thousands of glowworms.
• Hobbiton Movie Set Tour: Relive the charm of Middle-earth with a guided exploration of this iconic filming location.

Rotorua: A Geothermal and Cultural Wonderland
Rotorua is a region like no other, surrounded by a captivating geothermal landscape featuring steaming vents, spouting geysers, and bubbling mud pools—all set against a backdrop of pristine freshwater lakes and majestic native forests. This area is also steeped in rich Maori myths and legends, adding a cultural depth to its natural wonders.

In the late afternoon, enjoy a guided visit to one of the region’s iconic geothermal attractions. Explore the Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, the Kiwi Conservation Centre, and the remarkable geothermal valley. As the evening unfolds, indulge in a traditional Hangi Dinner overlooking the valley and geyser, followed by a mesmerizing 40-minute cultural performance. End your evening with hot chocolate and pudding on the geyser terrace—a truly unforgettable experience.

Overnight: Rotorua

Included Activities

• Te Ra/Te Po Day and Evening Experience: A complete immersion into Rotorua’s geothermal and Maori cultural highlights.

Optional Activities

• The Hell’s Gate Experience: Take a guided walk through this dramatic geothermal reserve, followed by a rejuvenating mud bath and spa experience.
• Secret Spot Hot Tubs: Unwind in private hot tubs nestled within tranquil surroundings—an ideal way to relax after an adventurous day.

A Scenic Journey to Napier
Today’s drive from Rotorua to Napier offers a little bit of everything. Travel past the stunning Great Lake Taupo, taking in a diverse landscape that includes volcanic terrains, lush forest plantations, rugged hills, serene valleys, gentle plains, and sweeping vistas.

Napier is a city like no other, with its unique charm rooted in history. After a devastating earthquake in 1931, the city was rebuilt in the iconic Art Deco style of the era, incorporating Maori motifs to create a distinctly New Zealand character. Today, this delightful seaside city feels like a step back in time, with its immaculate collection of 1930s architecture forming one of the world’s finest Art Deco ensembles.

Enjoy a guided tour to discover Napier’s fascinating history and remarkable architecture.

Overnight: Napier

Driving Distance

• Rotorua to Napier: 220 km (approx. 3 hrs)

Included Activities

• Art Deco Afternoon Walk: Explore Napier’s rich history and architectural treasures with an expert guide.

A Scenic Journey to Wellington
Today’s journey south takes you through one of two breathtaking routes: the dramatic Manawatu Gorge or the picturesque Tuki Tuki Valley and Wairarapa Wine Region. Either way, the drive promises stunning scenery before you arrive in Wellington.

Nestled between a sparkling harbor and rolling green hills, Wellington is a vibrant and compact city best explored on foot. Discover its fantastic shopping, rich arts and culture, and a thriving café and restaurant scene—all just minutes from serene natural landscapes.

To deepen your experience, we highly recommend a guided tour at Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, for a fascinating insight into the country’s rich history and culture.

Overnight: Wellington

Driving Distance

• Napier to Wellington: 320 km (approx. 4 hrs, 30 mins)

Optional Activities

• Zealandia by Night Tour: Experience a magical evening walk through this predator-free wildlife sanctuary, where native species come alive after dark.
• Introducing Te Papa Tour: Discover the highlights of New Zealand’s national museum with a knowledgeable guide.

Crossing from North to South Island
New Zealand’s North and South Islands are connected by a three-hour journey filled with breathtaking scenery and invigorating ocean air. Departing Wellington, your ferry crosses the Cook Strait, offering stunning views of sparkling waters, picturesque beaches, and the serene bays and coves of the Marlborough Sounds. Arriving in the historic port town of Picton, you’ll find yourself in the heart of Marlborough, a region renowned for its rugged mountain ranges, fertile plains, and world-class wine.

From Picton, a short drive takes you to the charming town of Blenheim, nestled in the heart of wine country.

Overnight: Blenheim

Driving Distance

• Picton to Blenheim: 30 km (approx. 30 mins)

Included Activities

• North to South Island Ferry Crossing: Enjoy a scenic and memorable journey through some of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal landscapes.

The Pacific Coast Road to Christchurch
Embark on one of New Zealand’s most dramatic and unforgettable drives along the Pacific Coast Road. With towering mountains on one side and the wild, crashing ocean on the other, this journey offers spectacular views at every turn.

Midway, you’ll arrive at the charming seaside town of Kaikoura, nestled beneath majestic mountains. This unique location boasts exceptional marine geography, creating the ideal habitat for sperm whales and a variety of other marine life.

Continue south to Christchurch, a vibrant and ever-evolving city. Known as the Garden City, its beautiful parks and gardens are seamlessly intertwined with the tranquil, meandering Avon River.

Overnight: Christchurch

Driving Distance

• Blenheim to Christchurch: 309 km (approx. 4 hrs)

Optional Activities

• Whale Watch Tour – Ocean Cabin: Witness majestic sperm whales up close on a guided ocean tour.
• Dolphin Encounter Swim: Dive into an unforgettable experience swimming with playful wild dolphins in their natural habitat.

Journey to Greymouth
Begin your journey across the Canterbury Plains, a lush, fertile landscape painted in every shade of green. Continue through the stunning Arthurs Pass National Park, where towering peaks and alpine vistas pave the way to New Zealand’s rugged West Coast.

The West Coast is a wild, untamed region renowned for its dramatic rivers, lush rainforests, glaciers, and geological wonders. Here, ancient rivers of solid white ice, remnants of the world’s last ice age, cascade down steep valleys, creating a landscape like no other.

Overnight: Greymouth

Driving Distance

• Christchurch to Greymouth: 240 km (approx. 3.5 hrs)

Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers
With their temperate climate and low altitude, the Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers are among the most accessible glaciers in the world. Steep valleys, marked by the scars of glaciers that have advanced and retreated over millennia, offer a striking glimpse into the ongoing ice age.

For a truly unforgettable experience, consider adding a scenic flight with a glacier landing and a thrilling hike to your itinerary—an absolute bucket-list adventure!

Overnight: Glacier Region

Driving Distance

• Greymouth to Glacier Region: 175-195 km (approx. 2.5-3 hrs)

Optional Activities

• Punakaiki Rocks and Blowholes: Marvel at the iconic Pancake Rocks and watch the powerful blowholes in action along the rugged coastline.

Journey to Queenstown
Today’s scenic drive takes you through charming wilderness towns, past cascading waterfalls, and along stunning river landscapes on your way to Queenstown. We recommend a refreshing stop at Makarora’s Blue Pools—a perfect place to stretch your legs and take in the breathtaking surroundings.

Upon arrival in Queenstown, check into your accommodation before heading to the Skyline Base for a Gondola Ride up to the top of Bob’s Peak. Enjoy panoramic, sweeping views of Queenstown and the surrounding mountains from high above. For a dash of adventure, why not add a few Luge rides to your itinerary for an adrenaline-filled experience?

Overnight: Queenstown

Driving Distance

• Queenstown to Glacier Region: 330-350 km (approx. 4.5-5 hrs)

Optional Activities

• Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike: Combine a scenic helicopter flight with a thrilling hike on the glacier—an unforgettable adventure.
• Original Onsen Exclusive Indoor Pool: Unwind and relax in a private hot spring pool for a rejuvenating experience.

Queenstown: The Adventure Capital
Nestled amid towering peaks and breathtaking vistas, Queenstown is a compact alpine resort town where majestic mountains dominate the skyline. With such a vast and stunning natural landscape, it’s no wonder Queenstown is known as the Adventure Capital of the World.

Overnight: Queenstown

For a truly scenic experience, we recommend letting someone else do the driving and join an optional day tour to Milford Sound (not included in the tour cost) to soak in the beauty of this iconic location without worrying about the road.

Optional Activities

• Shotover Jetboat Ride: Experience an exhilarating high-speed ride through the dramatic Shotover River canyons.
• Glacier Express Heli Flight (50 mins): Take to the skies for a thrilling helicopter flight over glaciers, mountains, and valleys.

Journey to Tekapo or Mt Cook
Today’s drive leads you through a scenic wonderland of golden tussocks, snow-capped mountains, and sparkling turquoise lakes. Follow the shores of the stunning Lake Pukaki, winding your way into a rugged landscape of ice and rock. This is the realm of Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, standing proudly above the surrounding wilderness.

Overnight: Tekapo or Mt Cook

Driving Distance

• Queenstown to Tekapo/Mt Cook: 256-266 km (approx. 3 hrs, 15 mins)

Journey to Christchurch
Today, you’ll enjoy an enlightening visit to the Dark Sky Project, where you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the wonders of the night sky. Be sure to take a moment at Lake Tekapo, where the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd stands proudly against the backdrop of a vivid blue, glacier-fed lake.

Continue your journey northeast, where the braided rivers and expansive plains will lead you back to Christchurch. If time allows, be sure to visit the International Antarctic Centre, either today or tomorrow, for a fascinating insight into the icy continent of Antarctica.

Overnight: Christchurch

Driving Distance

• Tekapo/Mt Cook to Christchurch: 220-330 km (approx. 3-4 hrs)

Included Activities

• Dark Sky Experience: Discover the wonders of the night sky in one of the world’s most renowned stargazing locations.
• International Antarctic Centre: Get an icy, interactive look into the world of Antarctica and its incredible ecosystem.

Optional Activities

• Christchurch Tram Dinner: Enjoy a unique dining experience aboard a vintage tram as it winds through the streets of Christchurch, offering delicious food and great city views.

Return and Departure
Today, your arrangements conclude with the return of your rental car to Christchurch Airport.

Please Note

• (i) Rental car “Days” are based on a 24-hour hire period. Early arrivals or late departures may require an extended rental period.
• (ii) Adding Optional Tours to your itinerary may require an additional night’s stay at the respective location.