New Zealand Experience – Self Drive Road Trip

Arrive at Auckland International Airport, when you receive a warm welcome from your local driver who is going to take you to your private vehicle to facilitate transfer to your hotel.

On your way, you will be enjoying the initial glimpses of Auckland, popularly known as the ‘City of Sails’, which has stunning harbours and a nice sailing culture.

Once you arrive at the hotel, complete your check-in process and settle into your hotel rooms. Later, you will get plenty of time to step outside to explore the beautiful local surroundings and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Overnight stay in Auckland.

You get a 2-night stay at SkyCity, Auckland, where you get a Premium King Room with room-only service included in the service.

SkyCity Hotel Auckland

Enjoy your stay in the heart of vibrant Auckland and enjoy authentic Kiwi hospitality at SkyCity. The hotel has over spacious, modern 320 rooms equipped with luxurious amenities. The hotel has more than 20 restaurants and bars, where you can have Chinese, Pacific, Modern Indian, Japanese, and various international cuisines.

The entire day is at leisure for you to enjoy Auckland as per your liking. Among the various options, you can either take a harbour cruise, explore the dynamic neighbourhoods, visit the beautiful galleries and museums, or just vibe in the serene local atmosphere.

At a suitable time, you will go out to the car hire office to collect your rental vehicle. Make sure you have carried your driver’s license, booking confirmation, and credit card to ensure your entire pick-up process happens smoothly.

After collecting your vehicle, be ready to start your self-drive portion of your New Zealand adventure.

Enjoy an overnight stay in Auckland.

You are going to begin your self-drive journey through New Zealand’s captivating countryside, where you head towards Waitomo, one of the top tourist attractions in New Zealand, which is famous for its limestone caves.

You will have the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves Experience.

Once you arrive, you will get on a short but mesmerising guided tour of Waitomo Glowworm Caves, which is a stunning natural wonder believed to have formed over 3 million years ago.

You will set your journey on foot, where you venture through gorgeous limestone formations that are present in the upper chambers before descending into the lower level, which feels like a totally different world altogether. You will be gliding silently to the gorgeous lower level of the caves.

When you are here, you will feel captivated by the magical sight of the Glowworm Grotto, where plenty of glowworms, a species which is unique to New Zealand, are illuminating the cave filled with starry nights.

During the tour, you will cover the Cathedral, the tallest chamber in the cave, known for its natural acoustics. Witness the beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. You will also love to witness the serene glow of bioluminescence.

Once you are done with the Waitomo experience, you are going to continue with your journey in the Northeast direction towards Matamata.

You are going to visit the famous Hobbiton™ Movie Set at The Shire’s Rest, which is situated on the gorgeous Alexander family sheep farm set in the centre of the Waikato region.

Enjoy a panoramic bus ride where you go through the lush rolling hills of the property in the stunning backdrop of the Kaimai Ranges. You are going to visit four iconic spots, including:

• Bilbo Baggins’ Hobbit Hole

• The Party Tree

• The Green Dragon Inn

• The charming gardens and stone bridges located in Hobbiton village

Learn various behind-the-scenes stories and insights of how these locations became like legends in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies.

Further, once you are done with these memorable experiences, you are going to drive to Rotorua, which is renowned for its rich Māori culture, geothermal wonders and spectacular beauty.

Once you arrive, you will check in at your hotel, and you will have the remainder of the day to spend at leisure.

You get two nights in Rotorua, thus getting plenty of time to visit the gorgeous landscapes and witness the beautiful culture. Enjoy your overnight stay in Rotorua.

You get 2 nights stay at the Millennium Hotel Rotorua, where you get a Superior Room with room-only service.

Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Set in a scenic location by the mystical Lake Rotorua, the Millennium Hotel Rotorua offers the ideal New Zealand retreat. The hotel offers residential-style rooms and suites (a total of 227) from where you can enjoy Lake or surrounding garden views. Here you get 7 meeting and event spaces, heated pools, and a spa.

You are going to begin your day very relaxed, with your entire morning for you to spend at leisure. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the place that includes Rotorua’s gorgeous lakefront, beautiful local thermal spa, and get ready for the phenomenal cultural evening.

At the designated hour, your driver is going to meet you at your hotel lobby to transfer you to the Te Puia, which is where you enjoy the magnificent Te Pō Combo experience (starts at 4:00 PM) - it brings you even closer to the heart of the Māori culture and geothermal wonder.

You will get on a fully guided tour of the sacred Te Puia geothermal valley. You are going to love exploring bubbling mud pools, steam vents, and the magnificent Pōhutu Geyser, which is as high as 30 minutes and is the largest active geyser located in the Southern Hemisphere. On your way, you will be visiting:

• The Kiwi Conservation Centre offers an opportunity to experience New Zealand’s beautiful nocturnal bird. 

• You will visit the famous New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute, where master carvers and weavers make sure the traditional skills are alive.

Once you are done with your exploration, have a sumptuous buffet dinner at Pātaka Kai Restaurant & Bar, as you witness the mesmerising views of the geothermal landscape. As per the cuisines, you can relish local and traditional cuisines that include:

• Kai Moana (seafood)

• Hāngī-style meats and vegetables

• Fresh seasonal produce

• A tempting selection of desserts

Have your dinner and later proceed to the Te Aronui a Rua meeting house, where you will find a beautifully carved wharenui that holds a stunning cultural performance. Further, relish Māori tradition with:

• A pōhiri (traditional welcome)

• Waiata (song)

• Mōteatea (chant)

• Poi dance

• The spine-tingling haka

Your magical evening concludes when you take a night walk back through the magnificent geothermal valley, where you sip a cup of hot chocolate as you admire the beautiful atmosphere under the stars.

After that, you will receive a private transfer to your hotel. Enjoy an overnight stay in Rotorua.

Enjoy a pleasant morning in Rotorua. You will have plenty of time to relax and enjoy your time strolling around Lake Rotorua as you enjoy a delicious café breakfast, or you can visit the famous nearby attractions, including the Government Gardens or Kuirau Park.

Later, you will check out of your hotel or lodge and head for a scenic drive to Ohakune, which is situated in the southern gateway to Tongariro National Park. Your journey passes through gorgeous countryside, rolling farmland, and beautiful volcanic landscapes.

Once you arrive in Ohakune, you will check in at your hotel or lodge and settle in for the evening hours. You are going to love enjoying various adventure activities in Ohakume that offers a peaceful overnight stop surrounded by nature.

The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to relax, explore the beautiful town, and dine at a fantastic local restaurant when you are ready for the next leg of your New Zealand journey.

Overnight stay in Ohakune.

You get 1 night stay at the 4* Powderhorn Chateau, Ohakune, in a Hotel Suite with room-only service plan included.

Powderhorn Chateau

Embrace the beauty of New Zealand's stunning national parks during your stay at this fantastic 4-star hotel. The hotel offers two amazing dining outlets, diverse and cosy accommodations, conference venues and meeting spaces. The region allows for lots of exploration opportunities in the form of biking trails, world-class hiking, and various snow activities.

Begin your day with a relaxed morning in Ohakune. Have a delicious breakfast at your accommodation, or you can have it at your local café. Take a short walk to enjoy the beautiful mountain air and stunning views of Mt. Ruapehu.

Once you check out, enjoy a scenic drive to Wellington, the dynamic capital city of New Zealand. You will be passing through the mesmerising landscapes of rolling farmland, beautiful river valleys and uneven mountains.

On the way, you will get a stop at the famous towns such as Taihape, known for its gumboot-throwing statue, or Bulls, where you will find plenty of trendy signposts and cafés.

Once you arrive in Wellington, you will check in at your hotel and enjoy your two-night stay.

The remainder of the day is at your leisure, where you relax and start enjoying the city’s beautiful cultural scenes, culinary delights, and beautiful waterfront.

Enjoy your overnight stay in Wellington.

You get 2 nights stay at Copthorne Hotel Wellington Oriental Bay, where you get a Superior Room with room-only service included in the deal.

Copthorne Hotel Wellington Oriental Bay

This fantastic 4-star hotel offers gorgeous Wellington Harbour views and is the perfect home base to explore this beautiful city. In fact, the city's top commercial, shopping and entertainment zones are only within walking distance. The hotel offers 118 rooms, one restaurant serving New Zealand and international cuisines, and 3 premium conference rooms.

In the morning hours, you will make your way to Te Papa Tongarewa – the Museum of New Zealand, located in a beautiful waterfront location, which is also one of the major cultural institutions.

You will get on a 60-minute guided tour that immerses you in the rich history, stunning culture and beautiful natural attractions as you go through Te Papa’s world-class exhibitions and national treasures.

A tour guide will be present who will accompany you on the journey and a) you will be able to immerse yourself in the rich traditions of New Zealand’s indigenous Māori people. b) Learn about the broader stories of rich Pacific Island culture and their rightful place in the region. c) Witness the preserving wildlife that is properly adapted to Aotearoa's diverse environments. d) Learn about New Zealand’s dynamic landscapes along with the region’s past and present.

Overall, you are going to enjoy every moment as you take in the gorgeous culture that shaped modern-day New Zealand.

The tour concludes as you explore the museum at your own pace or have a break at one of the cafés located close by.

Enjoy an overnight stay in Wellington.

Spend the morning hours relaxing before you check out of your hotel. You will make your way to the Interislander Ferry Terminal in Wellington to enjoy a panoramic journey taking you across the Cook Strait to Picton, which is a tranquil town located on the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island.

Usually, the ferry takes around 3.4 hours and offers phenomenal views, which include the majestic expanse of the Cook Strait and tranquil waterways to gorgeous forested hills of the Marlborough Sounds.

It is suggested here that you spend time on the outdoor decks as you take in the fresh sea air and take lots of pictures.

Further, when you leave Picton, you are going to drive south along the beautiful coastal highway as you pass through beautiful rural towns, seaside cliffs, and vineyard-dotted valleys on your route to Kaikōura. It is a picturesque town that is set between the magnificent ocean and snow-capped mountains.

You will check in at your hotel in Kaikōura to enjoy a fantastic overnight stay. Later, enjoy the remaining hours of the day at your leisure where you can stroll the town, relish a local seafood dinner, or you can enjoy your time relaxing by the coast.

Enjoy a pleasant overnight stay in Kaikoura.

Here you get 1 night stay at The White Morph, Kaikoura, where you get a Deluxe Studio room with room only service included in the deal.

The White Morph

Enjoy the breathtaking vistas when you stay at this stunning waterfront hotel set along the Esplanade in Kaikoura. The hotel rooms have all the quality amenities, including free fibre internet, a Smart TV equipped with 50 plus Sky channels, and a coffee maker. Several major attractions are located close by, including Dolphin Encounter and Whale Watch Kaikoura.

Enjoy the morning hours at leisure in Kaikōura before you go ahead with a final walk along the coastline - you can either visit a local café or you can just relax and embrace the surrounding scenic areas.

When you are ready, you are going to check out of your hotel and head south to the largest city in New Zealand’s South Island, Christchurch. You are going to start on a coastal route before you head inland through farmlands, river valleys and beautiful foothills.

Once you reach Christchurch, you will check in to your hotel and enjoy a pleasant overnight stay. In the remaining hours, you will explore the vibrant central district, take a stroll along the beautiful Avon River; alternatively, you can explore the beautiful Riverside Market or the Botanic Gardens.

Enjoy a pleasant overnight stay during your time in Christchurch.

You get 1 night stay at the Rydges Latimer Christchurch Hotel, where you have a Superior King Room with room-only service included in the deal.

Rydges Latimer Christchurch

Enjoy a memorable holiday at this stylish and vibrant hotel located in Christchurch offering plenty of relaxation and excellent service by the staff. The hotel features 175 stylish and comfortable rooms that are excellently designed. For dining, the hotel has a premium steakhouse that also serves locally sourced seafood.

Enjoy leisurely morning hours in Christchurch. You will love a final stroll through the Botanic Gardens, where you can relish a relaxed breakfast at one of the popular cafés in the city or explore various local shops before you check out of your hotel.

Once you are ready, begin a pleasant scenic drive southwest towards Lake Tekapo as you travel through the beautiful Canterbury Plains. Further, you get into the centre of the Mackenzie Country. On the way, pass through charming rural towns and open landscapes that gradually lead up to fantastic alpine panoramas.

Once you arrive in Takapo, which is a beautiful lakeside village renowned for its snow-capped mountain setting and mesmerising night skies.

Further, you will check in to your accommodation to enjoy a pleasant overnight stay. You will have the rest of the day to explore the area as per your liking.

You get 1 night stay at Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo in a Deluxe Lakeview room with room-only service included in the deal.

Peppers Bluewater Resort Lake Tekapo

This 5-star resort is located in an outstanding natural location overlooking the magnificent Lake Tekapo. Experience the real New Zealand as you stay in one of the beautiful rooms with contemporary interiors, but with a soothing natural decor that complements the surrounding gorgeous landscapes. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant and offers meeting facilities.

Have your morning hours at leisure in Lake Tekapo. You have the option to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, take a peaceful lakeside stroll, or enjoy a relaxing soak at Tekapo Springs. You are going to love taking in the phenomenal beauty of this place. Later, check out of your hotel.

When you are ready to continue your tour, start your scenic drive taking you to Queenstown, which is one of the most iconic resort towns in New Zealand. The journey is going to take you through the stunning South Island landscapes, which include rolling plains and glacial-fed rivers to beautiful mountain passes. You are going to love a short stop in Lake Pukaki from where you enjoy phenomenal views of Aoraki / Mt. Cook, which is the tallest mountain in New Zealand (when the weather is clear, it is even better).

Further, you will continue your journey through Lindis Pass and the Central Otago region, which has rugged mountains and beautiful vineyards stretching across the landscape before the beautiful Wakatipu Basin.

Once you arrive in Queenstown, situated on the shores of the beautiful Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the phenomenal Remarkables mountain range. You will check in to your hotel to enjoy a nice, pleasant 3-night stay.

Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure as you relax and settle in, and explore Queenstown's lakeside dining scene, scenic trails or boutique shops.

Have a pleasant overnight stay in Queenstown.

You get 3 nights stay at the Millennium Hotel Queenstown, which includes a Superior Room with room-only service.

Millennium Hotel Queenstown

Offering a refreshing and comfortable retreat located in the Queenstown city centre, the Millennium Hotel Queenstown offers the perfect place to engage in a variety of activities, including shopping, dining, entertainment, and legendary outdoor adventures. The hotel offers 220 modern guest rooms and suites that are stylishly designed and equipped with the latest amenities for an enjoyable stay experience. Beyond all that, the hotel offers a fitness centre, free WiFi, one restaurant serving New Zealand cuisine and a bar where guests can socialise and grab a drink to unwind.

In the morning hours, you will be ready for one of New Zealand’s iconic and beautiful day trips, where you get the Milford Sound Coach and Cruise Experience.

Get a pickup from your hotel lobby in Queenstown in the early morning hours, where you get a luxury glass-roofted coach. You will settle in and witness the stunning landscapes travelling along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and further through the rolling farmland of Southland on the route to Te Anau, which is the gateway to Fiordland.

You get a temporary stop in Te Anau, which allows you to stretch your legs and relish a nice refreshment break.

Further, you will head along the magnificent Milford Road, which is famous for its beautiful alpine scenery, lush rainforest cover, and beautiful cliffs. You are going to pass through the Homer Tunnel and further descend into Cleddau Valley, and arrive at the magnificent Milford Sound.

When you are at Milford Wharf, you are going to board your cruise and head for the full length of Milford Sound, which is often considered the eighth wonder of the world. You will be passing through the beautiful granite cliffs, witnessing local wildlife such as seals, dolphins and Fiordland crested penguins, you will be gliding past cascading waterfalls like Stirling and Bowel Falls.

Because of the glass-roofed vessel, you will enjoy the breathtaking views of this wonder of the world. Once you are done with the cruise, you will return to your coach to enjoy a scenic journey back to Queenstown.

You will get a stop at the appropriate bus stop along Frankton Road, depending on the distance from the traffic and nearby accommodation.

Overnight stay at your hotel in Queenstown

Begin your journey at your own pace in Queenstown. You would soon realise why the place is taken to be one of the most vibrant and scenic destinations in New Zealand.

Queenstown is such that it caters to every type of traveller, whether they want sightseeing, relaxation or adventure.

You have the following options:

• Take a ride on the Skyline Gondola to enjoy stunning views over Lake Wakatipu and the beautiful surrounding mountains.

• Enjoy strolling along the lakefront or exploring the stunning Queenstown Gardens.

• Visit the historic gold mining village that is just a short drive away.

• Relish delicious local cuisines and artisan coffee at one of the nice lakeside cafes or restaurants.

• Adventure-junkies can engage in various activities such as bungee jumping, jet boating, and wine tasting in Biggston Valley. There is an option to get on a helicopter flight as well. 

Otherwise, you have the option to just relax and witness the stunning alpine surroundings.

Enjoy a beautiful overnight stay in Queenstown.

You will start with a relaxed morning at your leisure in Queenstown. Have some time to enjoy a final stroll along a beautiful lakefront, relish a delicious breakfast or get any last-minute souvenirs before you check out of your hotel.

When you are ready to continue, start your scenic drive to Franz Josef, a gorgeous destination located on the West Coast of the South Island. This route takes you through the dramatic landscapes of the Haast Pass, where you get lots of opportunities to stop and enjoy the stunning views of waterfalls, river valleys, mountains, and rainforests.

On the way, you will be stopping at the following checkpoints:

• Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea are perfect for photo breaks. 

• Blue Pools Walk - this is where you get a short, rewarding detour near Makarora. 

• Thunder Creek Falls - this is a beautiful, easily accessible waterfall that is situated along Haast Pass.

Once you arrive in Franz Josef, you will check in at your accommodation and enjoy your evening unwinding at your leisure.

You have the option to explore the small township or enjoy soaking in the beautiful Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools (this is optional - booking is recommended).

Have a phenomenal overnight stay in Franz Josef.

You get 1 night stay at Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier, where you get a Superior Room with room-only service booked to your name.

Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier

Enter into a world of breathtaking sights at this luxury rainforest retreat featuring stylish and comfortable accommodation for an unforgettable stay experience. The hotel offers a restaurant, a luxury spa, and bright and spacious rooms that are equipped with TV, tea & coffee making facilities, a mini fridge, and free wifi.

Enjoy relaxed morning hours in Franz Josef. Take a short walk taking you to the beautiful glacier viewpoint, you will visit the West Boast Wildlife Centre where you will witness rare Kiwi, or you can just relish a delicious breakfast surrounded by a lush native rainforest.

Later, you will check out of your accommodation and take a drive north to Greymouth. You are going to love this scenic journey that is filled with lush forests, beautiful coastline, and spectacular small towns along the way.

Here you get two options on the route:

• Ross - a famous historical gold-mining town where you can enjoy a nice and quick heritage walk. 

• Hokitika - the city is famous for its greenstone (pounamu) and nice artsy vibe; next, you will visit the beautiful Hokitika Gorge or browse local artisan shops.

Once you arrive in Greymouth, you will check in at your hotel to enjoy a memorable night. This town is a getaway to experience the region's natural beauty and local history.

You have the option to enjoy a walk along the beautiful floodwall or head to the local brewery or café to have your dinner.

Have a nice overnight stay in Greymouth.

Enjoy 1 night stay at Copthorne Hotel Greymouth, where you get a Superior Room with room-only service.

Copthorne Hotel Greymouth

Choose this warm and heartfelt holiday stay that is located in the centre of town and offers easy access to the beautiful coast and a variety of stunning attractions from the Southern Alps to the Tasman Sea. Enjoy your time staying in comfortable and well-equipped rooms. For dining, there's Jimmy Cook’s Kiwi Kitchen, which offers superb dining and a place to socialise.

Start your day very relaxed; you can enjoy a nice stroll through the town or, if you like, visit a local café. Later, whenever you are ready to proceed, you will check out of your hotel and go ahead with your scenic drive to Christchurch.

On your journey, witness the changing landscape as you go from the rugged West Coast to the gorgeous Canterbury Plains.

Once you arrive in Christchurch, you will check in to your hotel and enjoy your final night of this entire tour. For the same, have the remainder of your day at leisure to explore the lively city centre, or you can just relax and unwind after this exciting holiday tour.

Enjoy an overnight stay in Christchurch.

You get 1 night stay at 4* Rydes Latimer Christchurch.

Begin your day very relaxing by taking in the beautiful vibe of the place or enjoy the various amenities of the hotel.

When you are ready to proceed, you will check out and drive to Christchurch Airport before your scheduled time.

Have plenty of time in hand so you can return your rental car and go ahead with flight check-in procedures to board your flight for your onward journey.