Tour Type: Budget Self Drive Tour
Duration: 18 Days
Tour Starts In: Christchurch
Tour Finishes In: Auckland
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from NZ $3073 pp
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18 Day Northward Bound Touring Route:
Tour Inclusions:
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Day
1 |
Arrive Christchurch
Arrive Christchurch, and collect your rental car and travel documents at the airport. Located on the east coast of the South Island, Christchurch - just like the rest of New Zealand - is a city of contrasts and has a unique blend of historic charm and exciting city life. The city has had 2 earthquakes in the last year, and as a result the central CBD district has been damaged. However many of the activites in and around Christchurch are still operating as normal, and there is still plenty to experience and see. Why not sit back and relax as you pass the trailing willows and leafy banks of the stunning Christchurch Botanic Gardens while punting down the river Avon? The city centre is small enough to be negotiated on foot, with the advantage of being perfectly flat. Stay: Antonio's Motor Lodge |
Day
2 |
Spectacular drive through the Southern Alps
This morning you'll drive from Christchurch to Greymouth, from one coast of New Zealand to the other! You’ll see the fields of the Canterbury Plains and farmland, followed by the spectacular gorges and river valleys of the Waimakariri River. You then climb into the Southern Alps before descending through lush beech rain forest to the West Coast town of Greymouth. A short drive north of Greymouth takes you to the famous Punakaiki Rocks and Blowholes. Return to Greymouth for overnight stay. Stay: Charles Court Motel |
Day
3 |
Greymouth to the Glaciers
Today make your way from Greymouth down the coast to Franz Josef. The road to Hokitika provides great views of the wild west coast. Detour to the beach and breathe the salt spray air. Driftwood is the ornamentation of choice for west coast beaches – every shape, size and colour. Shantytown, just south of Greymouth, is a reconstructed 1880s gold rush town – great family entertainment. The road continues through farmland that is trying to turn back into forest, and the beauty of the rivers is raw and primeval. A visit to the White Heron colony near Whataroa is a rare experience. You could also enjoy a picnic by the shores of Lake Ianthe or discover the goldfield walkway at Ross. Stay: Glacier View Motel (2 nights) |
Day
4 |
Glaciers at leisure
Today is at leisure to explore and enjoy what this beautiful region has to offer. Perhaps take a scenic helicopter flight over the glaciers including a snow landing, or enjoy a half day guided walk on the glaciers. |
Day
5 |
Glaciers to Queenstown
Depart Franz Josef and travel down the West Coast, alongside braided riverbeds, native forests and roadside waterfalls before climbing up over the Haast Pass and through Mount Aspiring National Park, with its impressive mountains sculpted by glaciers during the Ice Ages. Then follow the shores of Lakes Hawea and Wanaka to the resort city of Queenstown. Stay: Sherwood Manor (3 nights) |
Day
6 |
Queenstown at leisure
Today is at leisure to relax or explore Queenstown. Whether it's bungy jumping, white-water rafting, heli-skiing, fly-fishing, hang gliding, horse riding or scenic flights, you will find thrills and excitement in every way imaginable. Meanwhile, other activities such as exploring historic Arrowtown, scenic walks, eco-tours, shopping, galleries, cafes and an exciting nightlife provide something for everyone all year round. Queenstown is unique in comparison to other international resorts by virtue of its distinct four seasons giving pleasant temperatures with plentiful sunshine, accompanied by abundant activities and sports to match the season. |
Day
7 |
Milford Sound Tour
This morning depart by coach on an unforgettable journey from Queenstown into Milford Sound as you journey along the edge of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau. The road to Milford is one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives. The first part is relatively mild farmland, then you’ll ease into beech forest near the entrance to the Fiordland National Park. The rough hewn Homer Tunnel brings you into Milford Sound, an amazing 22km-long fiord dominated by Mitre Peak. At Milford Sound, board your boat for a spectacular cruise in New Zealand’s most famous waterway, a dramatic 22 kilometre fiord carved by glaciers during the last ice age. After your cruise you join your coach back to Queenstown. |
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Day
8 |
Queenstown to Mt Cook
Depart Queenstown and travel through the rugged and beautiful landscape of Otago. Cross the Lindis Pass into the Mackenzie Country to arrive in Mt Cook National Park where you will find New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki / Mt Cook which stands at 3754 metres. Awarded 'World Heritage' status in recognition of its qualities and rare beauty, the Park covers an area of nearly 70,000 hectares and contains all but five of the 27 peaks over 3,000 metres (10,000 feet) in New Zealand. Stay: Hermitage (Motel Units) |
Day
9 |
Mt Cook to Christchurch
This morning you can experience the Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s largest, in the most unique way possible. An experienced guide will whisk you away in a stable MAC Boat to explore the Tasman Glacier. Watch and listen to the ice melting before your eyes and stop, to touch and taste 500 year old ice and, on occasion, a walk on an iceberg provides a new and exciting experience for all. (Own expense or we can include this in your itinerary for you)
Depart Mt Cook and make your way to Christchurch. Travel along the western side of Lake Pukaki as you head north towards Christchurch. Along the way, stop at the stunning glacial-fed Lake Tekapo to visit the Church of the Good Shepherd which stands on the lake foreshore. Then travel through diverse farmland and across the Canterbury Plains to arrive in Christchurch. Stay: Antonio's Motor Lodge |
Day
10 |
Christchurch to Kaikoura via Hanmer Springs
Depart Christchurch today travelling past the popular surf beaches of Woodend, Waikuku, Leithfield and Amberly. The landscape becomes more gentle as you approach Waipara – a region known for its vineyards and olive groves and could be a great place to stop for refreshments. Continuing North you may like to take a detour to Gore Bay to see the fascinating cliff formations before arriving in Kaikoura, world renowned as the whale watching centre of New Zealand. Optional excursions include the opportunity to view giant sperm whales by boat or air; see dolphins, fur seals & Royal Albatross at close range in their natural habitat; or swim with pools of Dusky Dolphins … wetsuits provided! Stay: Willowbank Motel |
Day
11 |
Kaikoura to Blenheim
Today you travel from Kaikoura to Blenheim. The road north is dominated by the awesome beauty of the Pacific Coast. Quinnat salmon are known to run in the Clarence River and just north of the Ure River is a road that leads to the walking trails of the Sawcut Gorge. After the small town of Ward you’ll come to the Lake Grassmere saltworks - an interesting stop, particularly in late summer when the ponds turn coral pink. While in the township of Seddon you’ll find authentic New Zealand crafts. Stay: Colonial Motel |
Day
12 |
Blenheim to Wellington on the Interislander
This morning is free to explore some of the many vineyards and wineries in the Marlborough area. This afternoon a short drive brings you to Picton where you return your rental car to the depot at the ferry terminal prior to boarding the Interislander
ferry for your journey across the Cook Strait to Wellington. On arrival in Wellington collect a new rental car and make your way to your accommodation, the rest of the day is at your leisure. Stay: Capital Gateway Motor Inn (2 nights) |
Day
13 |
Wellington at leisure
Today is at leisure to explore what Wellington has to offer. Downtown Wellington on Lambton Quay is popular with shoppers. Perhaps take a trip on the Cable Car which takes you from Lambton Quay to Kelburn or enjoy a visit to the Botanic Gardens. For a different perspective of the city, take a harbour cruise or a ferry trip to Eastbourne, where there are craft shops, galleries and cafes. Highly recommended is a visit to Te Papa Museum. |
Day
14 |
Wellington to Rotorua
As you travel north towards Taihape the landscape is dominated by rivers and valleys. In Waiouru, the QE2 Memorial Museum is worth a look before continuing on the long straight Desert Road where you’ll enjoy amazing views of Tongariro National Park’s volcanoes before arriving in the lakeside town of Taupo. Continue north before travelling through the Kaingaroa forest, one of the largest man made forests in the Southern Hemisphere. Pass the thermal reserves of Wai-o-tapu and Whakarewarewa to reach the geothermal city of Rotorua. Stay: Six On Union Motel (2 nights) |
Day
15 |
Rotorua at leisure
Free time to explore Rotorua this today. You may like to visit the Agrodome or take a gondola ride to the top of Mt Ngongotaha for spectacular views of Rotorua. Later this afternoon visit Te Puia geothermal area to view the boiling mudpools and cascading Pohutu geyser that make Rotorua famous as New Zealand’s thermal city. This evening experience Te Po, Te Puia’s cultural experience. It is a feast of cultural storytelling, entertainment and Maori kai (indigenous food). After a formal Maori welcome, relax and enjoy a performance including the beautiful songs, haka and poi dance. After dinner you will be transported by people movers to enjoy the spectacular lighting of the Whakarewarewa Geothermal Valley and hot chocolate. (D) |
Day
16 |
Rotorua to Auckland, via Waitomo Caves
Today you depart Rotorua and travel over the forested Mamaku Ranges to reach the Waitomo region. Here you enjoy a guided tour of the world famous Waitomo glowworm caves including an underground boat ride (weather permitting) on a subterranean river. Overhead thousands of tiny glowworms light up the cave walls and roof. Then travel on to reach Hamilton, a city carved in two by the mighty Waikato River. From here the Waikato River will accompany you for much of your journey north. You’ll know you’re getting close to Auckland when you reach the motorway at the base of the Bombay Hills. The scenery will change gradually from market gardens to bloodstock farms to suburbia. Stay: Oaktree Motel (2 nights) |
Day
17 |
Auckland at leisure
Today is at leisure to relax or explore what Auckland has to offer. Perhaps visit Kelly Tarlton’s Underwater World and Antarctic Encounter, take a cruise on Auckland Harbour or make your way to the top of the Sky Tower for spectacular views of Auckland city. Auckland is regularly voted one of the best lifestyle cities in the world, with the cosmopolitan city centre complemented by great escapes within half an hour of downtown. |
Day
18 |
Depart Auckland
Today your holiday comes to an end, please return your rental car to the depot at Auckland airport prior to your departure flight. |
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Note: This self drive tour can be completed in reverse order, the tour cost remains the same. To view tour prices or to make an enquiry, please click on the Tabs at the top of this itinerary. Top
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from NZ $3,073
18 Day Northward Bound
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18 Day Northward Bound Reviews
Tour reviews from past clients of Relaxing Journeys for the 18 Day Northward Bound . |
We had an absolutely amazing time. From glaciers to wilderness to icebergs to volcanos, New Zealand had it all and we saw it all on this trip. Everything went exactly as planned. All our hotel check in's went smoothly, we were picked up right on time, as arranged, and the supplied itinerary gave us heaps of great ideas for every stop we made. The little bonuses like the occasional luxury of a spa bath, beachfront hotels, great eating places within close walk all helped to make the trip even more memorable. The people of New Zealand deserve the biggest thanks, every motel manager was a willing source of information about their local area, giving great tips about food and sights. Everyone we spoke to was lovely, including our fellow tourists. The night at the Mitai village in Rotorua was particularly memorable for wonderful people making us feel most welcome, plus putting us in touch with the spiritual side of New Zealand. We could not recommend Relaxing Journeys, and particularly Jarrod, any more highly. We will be booking through them again without any hesitation. If you want to see the best of New Zealand and are a bit hesitant about trying to book things for yourself, definitely go through Relaxing Journeys. They do the hard stuff and leave you to enjoy your holiday.
Karen & Julius Kempin (Australia)
Tour Date 17/10/2010 |
Overall the trip was fantastic we both thoroughly enjoyed it. The accomodation on the whole was good, clean & simple motels with friendly and attentive staff. The only exception was the motel in Taupo (Karaka tree I think). The staff were nice however the cleanliness was below standard. The trips pre booked by yourselves were excellent, we both thoroughly enjoyed them. The car hire was great, quick and simple on both islands. The communication between us and Relaxing Journeys prior, during and after the trip has been excellent. Before we went, regular emails kept us up to date with travel itinerys etc so we were well prepared for our trip. During the trip the we were unexpectedly contacted to see if everything was going OK which was nice and a problem with a missing voucher during the trip was quickly resolved. Then upon our return we have been contacted to see if we enjoyed ourselves, simply 1st class. The length of time allocated in each place was ideal but we both felt that we didn't need to stay the night in Greymouth. Looking back we would have preferred to pick up the car, visit the Shantytown and then head towards Frans Josef (possibly stopping somewhere else), however the weather could have played a part as it was miserable. In conclusion the holiday was superb, New Zealand is a stunning country especially the South Island and we would have no hesitation in recommending Relaxing Journeys and returning to NZ in the future.
Martin Brierley & Hazel Driver (United Kingdom)
Tour Date 02/11/2009 |
Tour Prices
All tour prices are per person, twin share. |
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| Compact Car |
NZ $3,073 |
NZ $3,320 |
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| Intermediate Car |
NZ $3,115 |
NZ $3,361 |
NZ $2,239 |
| Full Size Car |
NZ $3,225 |
NZ $3,471 |
NZ $2,293 |
| Mid Size 4WD |
NZ $3,419 |
NZ $3,665 |
NZ $2,391 |
| People Mover (MPV) |
NZ $3,595 |
NZ $3,840 |
NZ $2,479 |
* 1 & 2 Bedroom motel units are all self catering.
** 2 Bedroom motel prices based on 4 adults travelling.
EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER
2012 Season Sale! Save 5% off the prices shown on our website, for all 2012 departures. Deposit this month to qualify!
Valid for bookings made with Relaxing Journeys between 1 February 2012 and 29 February 2012
. Subject to availability at time of booking. |
*Terms & Conditions apply to any discounts and/or specials above. Your designated tour consultant will apply the appropriate discounts automatically to your quote and detail any currently applicable 'Exclusive Specials'. |
Self Drive Tour Notes
Prices above are per person & valid till September 2012. |
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- Frequently Asked Questions.
- 2 Bedroom motel prices above are based on 4 adults travelling.
- Some motel studios may not have full self catering facilities. If self catering is required then please request a 1 or 2 bedroom room.
- If a property listed on our itinerary is unavailable at the time of booking we will replace it with a equivalent accommodation, and let you know, to ensure it is to your satisfaction.
- Please note this itinerary was updated 26 October 2010.
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