Arrive Auckland
After clearing customs and immigration you will pick up your rental car from Auckland Airport and then make your way to your hotel in the central City. Auckland - the “City of Sails” is New Zealand’s largest city and surrounded by two harbours. Stay: Scenic Hotel Auckland
Day 2
Auckland to Bay of Islands
This morning and head north out of Auckland today north to the Bay of Islands. Take some time to visit Kerikeri on the way for arts, crafts, antiques and see one of the oldest buildings in the country – the Stone Store. Then you can make your way to Paihia, holiday resort of the North and gateway to the beautiful Bay of Islands. Stay: Paihia Pacific (2 nights)
Day 3
Cape Brett and the Bay of Islands at Leisure
You can relax today and enjoy the Bay of Islands in a number of ways. We’ve included a cruise to the famous Hole in the Rock & Cape Brett for you this morning. Board the luxury catamaran which will whisk you on a comfortable journey out through game fishing waters to the Cape Brett Lighthouse. Next is Motukokako Island and the famous "Hole in the Rock" where we make a passage through the Hole and on to the Grand Cathedral Cave. On the return journey the cruise takes its time and meanders through the inner islands. View sandy beaches, beautiful bays and marine wildlife as your skipper gives an informative commentary. Included is an island stopover on beautiful Urupukapuka Island. As your catamaran docks at the Historic Otehei Bay, enjoy the white sandy beach, picturesque views and its rich archaeological landscape. On the way back you might like to stop off at Russell (New Zealand’s first capital) which was also known as the “Hell Hole of the Pacific” It’s now a quaint seaside village where you can take some time to wander around and enjoy.
Day 4
Bay of Islands to Auckland
It’s a good day for exploring today as there are many possibilities for stops on the way down south. At Waipu turn left to Waipu Cove and follow that road down through Langs Bach and Mangawhai. Waipu Cove is the local surf beach in the area. Further on, at the old Bohemian settlement of Puhoi have a drink and sample some local cheese. A little further south is Waiwera where there are mineral hot pools to bathe and have fun in. Stay in auckland tonight. Stay: Scenic Hotel Auckland
Day 5
Auckland to Waitomo & Rotorua
Continue south through Hamilton today to Rotorua. On the way stop off at the Waitomo Glowworm Caves (included in the tour price). For over 100 years Waitomo Glowworm Caves have attracted millions of people from all over the world. This evening you will be picked up and taken to the Mitai Village for a unique and unforgettable cultural experience. Be enthralled by the natural bush setting, see warriors in traditional dress, paddle an ancient warrior canoe (waka) down the Wai-o-whiro stream to see glow worms in their natural habitat. See your traditionally cooked hangi meal being lifted from the ground. During the cultural performance, you'll learn about our past, carvings and ta moko (tattoo art). Stay: Kingsgate Hotel Rotorua (2 nights) (D)
Day 6
Rotorua Sightseeing
Rotorua has been known for its geothermal activity for over 150 years now and today you are able to see, feel, smell and hear some of this wonder of nature. At Te Puia, experience the raw power of Te Whakarewarewa geothermal valley with bubbling mud pools, steaming vents and the world famous Pohutu Geyser. Take a journey into the heart of Maori culture, arts and crafts. Then take a ride on the new 8 seater gondola which climbs up the side of Mt Ngongotaha and experience Rotorua's most spectacular views with Skyline Skyrides. This is a fun, all age, all weather attraction with views of the City and Lake Rotorua. You can have lunch here at the café or restaurant, and enjoy the fresh air a little more if you decide to ride a cart down the Luge. At the end of the day you can relax at the Polynesian Spa where you have the choice of 7 hot mineral spring pools – or upgrade to some wonderful treatments from the Spa such as the Aix Massage.
Day 7
Rotorua to Hawke’s Bay
Today you head east to Napier. From here you have quite a variety of scenery as you ascend to the volcanic plateau then across mountains and valleys to Hawke’s Bay. Make your way to Napier city which was destroyed by an earthquake and fire in 1931. Napier was rebuilt in the Art Deco style and is known as one of the best Art Deco cities of the world. Art Deco tours are available, and you can also take a walk along Marine Parade or up Bluff Hill to enjoy the fabulous vista from there. Alternatively you can leave Rotorua early and get to Napier in time to go on one of the tours to the Cape Kidnappers Gannet Colony. Stay: Quality Inn Napier (2 nights)
Day 8
Hawke’s Bay at Leisure
You have the morning to relax or explore Napier at your leisure. Hawke’s Bay has also become well known as a leading food and wine region in New Zealand, so we have booked you in for a wine tour this afternoon. Meet like- minded people and share an appreciation of Hawke's Bay's fantastic wines.
Day 9
Hawke’s Bay to Wairarapa
Today’s route has you driving through some of New Zealand’s rural heartland with a mixture of sheep, dairy and crop farming. Make your way south to Pukaha Mount Bruce Nature and Wildlife Reserve. Experience some of New Zealand’s endangered wildlife up close and in the wild. Learn about what is being done to save kiwi, tuatara, kokako, kaka and return them to our forests. Make your way down the Wairarapa through the farming towns of Masterton, Carterton and Greytown before staying in Martinborough for the night. Stay: The Claremont, Martinborough
Day 10
Wairarapa to Wellington
You may like to have a wander around the village which has become well known for its wineries before heading over the Rimutaka Ranges in to New Zealand’s Capital – the harbour city of Wellington. Take a drive up Mount Victoria or a ride up the Cable Car to get some magnificent views of this pretty city. You may also like to have a walk around Oriental Bay, visit Te Papa the Museum of New Zealand, or spend some time shopping or dining in one of the many fine restaurants down town. Stay: Ibis Wellington
Day 11
Wellington to Picton and Marlborough Sounds
You have very little driving today as you drop your car at the Interislander
Ferry Terminal ready to cross the Cook Strait to the South Island. You’ll have a great view of Wellington and the harbour – you can choose to be inside or outside on the ferry. The journey then takes you into the majestic Marlborough Sounds, all the way in to Picton. Here you will board a water taxi to take you across to Torea Bay where a warm welcome awaits you at the Portage Resort. Stay: Portage Resort (2 nights)
Day 12
Marlborough Sounds at Leisure
This is a magic place to relax and listen to the native birds singing in the trees. You may like to go for a walk on Queen Charlotte Track, go kayaking, bike riding or even arrange a tour to the famous Marlborough wineries if you like wine! During your visit here you’ll discover why people have been coming to this peaceful part of Kenepuru Sound for over 100 years.
Day 13
Marlborough Sounds to Kaikoura
After a relaxing start to the day, take the water taxi back to Picton where you’ll pick up your new rental car ready to head south on Highway 1. Today is another day of dramatic scenery as you drive through vineyards, rolling hillsides and along the Kaikoura Coast. Take some time to stop along the coast where you can see seals and other wildlife before heading in to the whale watching capital of New Zealand – Kaikoura. Stay: White Morph Inn
Day 14
Kaikoura to Christchurch This morning is your chance to go on a Whale Watch Cruise or a Wings Over Whales flight to see the giant sperm whales, dolphins, fur seals and depending on the season, you may also see migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales. From Kaikoura it’s two hours direct to Christchurch or you may like to take a more scenic inland route via Hanmer Springs to bathe in the mineral pools in their alpine setting. Make your way south to Christchurch – the Garden City, and the largest in the South Island. Stay: Pavilions (2 nights)
Day 15
Christchurch at Leisure
Today you can choose to relax and explore this most English of New Zealand cities. Take a punt on the Avon River, a ride on the tram, or drive up the Port Hills for a great vista over the Canterbury Plains. Alternatively you could take a day tour and visit the beautiful unspoilt old French whaling depot of Akaroa. Lunch in the naturally picturesque setting of Akaroa Village at the popular Bully Hayes. The day’s activities can include your choice of the Akaroa Harbour Cruise, swimming with the dolphins, a game of golf on the picturesque Akaroa Golf Course with beautiful sea views, or simply explore and enjoy the charm and serenity of Akaroa.
Day 16
Christchurch to Mount Cook
Head south today across the Canterbury Plains, through the picturesque town of Geraldine . Be sure you make a photo stop at Lake Tekapo, a beautiful turquoise coloured lake. Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of the lake. This is one of the most photographed churches in the world made of stone and sand from around the lake. You are now in Mackenzie Country and the scenery is fantastic as you drive to Lake Pukaki and turn towards the Southern Alps and Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain. Follow this glacier-fed lake and the Tasman River all the way up to the alpine village of Aoraki-Mount Cook. Stay: Hermitage Chalets (2 nights)
Day 17
Aoraki-Mount Cook at Leisure
There are many tracks for walking and tramping in this area – you can find the most suitable for you by going to the Visitor Centre. There are scenic flights available by helicopter or fixed wing aircraft, and if you wish to have a glacial adventure there is the Glacier Explorers excursion on Lake Tasman at the base of the Tasman Glacier.
Day 18
Mount Cook to Queenstown
Leave New Zealand’s highest mountain behind today as you drive through Twizel and Omarama before heading up over the Lindis Pass – this is the area where gold was first discovered in the Central Otago region in 1861. Central Otago has a harsh but beautiful landscape due to its summer heat and winter cold. A lot of gold was discovered in the area in the late 1800’s. More recently in the late 1900’s it’s been discovered as a great place for growing grapes so there are some good reasons for exploring this area. Continue on through the Kawarau gorge to get to the alpine town of Queenstown where you are staying for three nights. Stay: Copthorne Queenstown Lakeviews (3 nights)
Day 19
Queenstown at Leisure
There are a huge number of activities to choose from here in Queenstown – for the adventurous there is bungy jumping, jet boating, skiing, 4WD Safaris snow boarding, rafting and skydiving to name a few. There are also some less adrenaline producing activities such as a cruise on Lake Wakatipu, a ride up the Skyline Gondola, or even a great day out on the Dart River Wilderness Safari.
Day 20
Milford Sound
Today we've included the Milford Sound Nature Cruise. Travel by luxury coach on an unforgettable journey from Queenstown into Milford Sound. Upon arrival at Milford Sound, board our vessels, the Milford Mariner or Milford Wanderer which are designed along the lines of traditional trading scows; purpose built to operate in the fiords and offering a laid back, extended, 2.5 hour cruise. Explore dramatic, moody Milford Sound, New Zealand’s most famous waterway. Throughout your cruise, our nature guide provides an engaging commentary about the magnificent scenery and wildlife (English only). Keep a look out for dolphins, seals and penguins. Return by coach to Queenstown or weather permitting, you can choose to fly back to Queenstown. Please ask your consultant about this option. (L)
For something a little different you have the option of substituting this tour for another to Doubtful Sound (additonal cost). Or you can choose to stay overnight on the Sound! See 'Optional Extras' on the right.
Day 21
Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier
This morning, journey up the West coast of the South Island to Fox & Franz Josef Glaciers. Drive to Cromwell, Wanaka and on through the Southern Lakes district to the Haast Pass then north, through dense rain forest broken by rugged coastal vistas, towards the glaciers. Stay: Punga Grove (2 nights)
Day 22
Franz Josef Glacier at Leisure
There’s lots to explore in this area – you can take your own time walking up to the glacier, going to the Okarito Lagoon; or join a guided walk on the glacier, take a heli-hike adventure, or a scenic flight over both glaciers.
Day 23
Franz Josef Glacier to Christchurch
Continue north to Hokitika where you can see some great Pounamu (Jade) shops, before turning inland to travel over the beautiful Arthur’s Pass. Along the way you’ll see the awesome engineering feats of the Otira Viaduct and Tunnel. You’ll have time to stop and look around before descending through some fantastic alpine scenery and on down to the Canterbury Plains and Christchurch. (If you have time you may wish to add a day here and stay at Punakaiki instead).
Relaxing Journeys also provides you with the option (additonal cost) of dropping off your car in Greymouth and heading to Christchurch on the TranzAlpine Train.
The TranzAlpine scenic train journey travels from one coast of New Zealand to the other. From your carriage you’ll see lush beech rainforest, lakes, mountains and tunnels as you ascend towards Arthur’s Pass at 737m above sea level. All carriages include both one way seating and tabled group seating allowing you to experience the amazing views while enjoying the company of other passengers on-board. An open air viewing carriage allows you to get even closer to the stunning scenery and provides many opportunities to photograph your favourite spots. On arrival in Christchurch you will be transferred to your accommodation. Stay: Pavilions
Day 24
Depart Christchurch
After breakfast this morning, please make your way to the airport where you will return your car in time for your onward flight.
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
24 Day New Zealand Tourer Reviews
Tour reviews from past clients of Relaxing Journeys.
7 Reviews,
Average Rating 4.1
of 5.
We had the holiday of a life time. Virtually everything exceeded our expectations, including the weather. Your organization was first rate and we knew we didn't have to worry about anything, even when our itinerary had to be rearranged because of the awful earthquake in Christchurch. Everything was waiting for us at Auckland airport and the maps and information that you supplied were very comprehensive and beautifully presented. We certainly packed a lot into three and half weeks and, given more time and money, we probably would have treated ourselves to slightly longer stays in places like Bay of Islands; Rotorua; Wellington and Portage. We would thoroughly recommend that people take one of the Bay of Island boat trips and stop off at Russell which is a delightful little town with an old tannery and printing press that is a must to visit. We enjoyed all the stop offs for which you provided vouchers: in particular the cultural evening at the Mitai village in Rotorua; the geothermal parks and, of course, the wine tasting. We also visited a second geothermal park at Wai o Tapu which was about 20 mins south of Rotorua. The Lady Knox geyser was rather a damp squib, but the rest of the park was amazing and well worth a tour. Another word of warning is that car hire desks at ferry terminals largely only open just before ferries dock and the taxi firm at Picton ceased trading in February 2011 (although something may have resumed since then) and you do have to walk between the ferry terminal and the water taxi to portage (about 5 mins along a relatively flat walkway). On the accommodation front: we found it really helpful to have some of the apartments/rooms with washing facilities or access to them on site. We were particularly impressed with the Paihai Pacific (Bay of Islands - but eat at one of the local restaurants): Regent Hotel in Rotorua (great staff and food); Quest Hotel in Napier (a faultless, roomy apartment): Portage Hotel (for superlative views: fab staff and good food); the Terrace Hotel in Queenstown (a magnificent apartment with wonderful views); the chalet at the Hermitage Hotel (out of the world views and all the benefits of the Hermitage hotel). We also particularly enjoyed: a trip on the TSS Earnslaw at Queenstow; a helicopter trip to the Franz Josef Glacier whilst in Punga Grove and of course the TranzAlpine train journey. Hanmer Springs Inn provided a lovely little apartment but our stay was marred by very drunk and rowdy customers outside the bar next door who didn't leave until about 3am. There were nice walks around Hanmer Springs as well as the spa (public and private pools). If we were being very picky then the Scenic Hotel in Auckland was unremarkable (although very convenient) and the restaurant/cafe wasn't that appealing and we did wonder what the rest of the hotels/motels would be like. Having said that, the bed was amazingly comfortable! These are really only minor quibbles, because every day was thoroughly enjoyable. Thanks again for ensuring we had such an amazing time. We have already recommended you to friends and hopefully we will be back.
Ann & Sam Nicholls (United Kingdom) Tour Date 20/02/2011
An amazing holiday in a remarkable country. Every day was awe inspiring, seeing scenery which constantly changed but was always beautiful beyond description ? mountains, lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, forests . . . the list is endless. The wildlife too; whales, fur seals, dolphins, penguins, parrots, albatross, tui, kakas, keas etc. The New Zealanders themselves are the most friendly, helpful and relaxed people we have ever met ? and very courteous drivers. There was not a single day that we were disappointed with what we saw and experienced. The book of vouchers, and the pack supplied by Relaxing Journeys, made the holiday very relaxed and hassle free. We could enjoy every day knowing that all the bookings had been reliably taken care of. Every aspect of our dealings with Relaxing Journeys was handled in an efficient, professional and friendly manner. On hindsight we should have spent a little more time in the Bay of Islands, Rotorua, Marlborough Sound, Kaikoura and Dunedin ? but we don?t know what we could have left out instead. Guidance in the pack concerning car parking difficulties/options in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch would have been helpful. The locations of the hotels was always good and within easy walking distance of the local facilities and attractions. Thank you for the most amazing holiday that we have ever had.
Chris & Joan Fensome (United Kingdom) Tour Date 19/12/2010
Now that we are back home in Kingston after a four day stopover in Calgary and our sleep patterns have almost returned to normal, here's the feedback I promised you when we spoke briefly in Auckland. We have wonderful memories of our trip to New Zealand. As time goes along, we are more aware of the valuable role that you and Relaxing Journeys played in making our travel around your beautiful country truly 'relaxing'. We are so pleased that we chose to work with you in designing a custom itinerary, one that worked for us and our travel companions. So many of the tedious and frustrating aspects of daily travel life were arranged in advance, freeing us to enjoy the scenery along the way. We have already told many friends about Relaxing Journeys' quality services. The resource materials were excellent, especially the detailed driving instructions along our route. (There was only one exception that created minor confusion in Nelson getting to the Balmoral Motel). Providers were expecting us and with minor exceptions were gracious hosts. Thrifty proved - as expected - a good rental car provider. The arrangements worked smoothly with minimum fuss. In our case, Thrifty made a special effort to deliver a newer model to our Blenheim motel the morning after we arrived in Picton. The only car they had when we arrived was very old and dirty with almost 100,000 kms. The motels varied in quality, but we expected that given the need to have a studio and 2 bedroom combination for 13 nights during our shared itinerary. Some were excellent, most quite acceptable, and a couple were marginal in our view. Overall, they represented good value (we know this from endless web searches of New Zealand motels in the months leading up to our trip). We recognized too that they were chosen for their convenient locations in relation to arrival and departure in each city.
Sandy & Shelley Cotton (Canada) Tour Date 27/02/2009
Firstly we would like to say that NZ lived up to all our pre-visit expectations and secondly that the tour you organized when perfectly; no problems with the vouchers, schedule etc. We had a few bad days weather-wise but this did not stop us from doing what we had planned. Overall we had a fantastic time, thank you very much and we wish you a very merry Christmas.
Richard & Michele Field (United States) Tour Date 25/10/2008
Our self drive tour was perfect allowing us to take our time to get to know the country, people & food. The detailed driving directions and travel times were big help as we do like to go slow to take in all the sights but still arrive at our next destination before midnight! The staff at virtually all the accommodations, big or small, were helpful and friendly. Cam Potts did excellent job of putting it all together per our specifications. I'd recommend Relaxing Journeys to anyone travelling to NZ.
Gail & Dion Bledsoe (United States) Tour Date 01/10/2008
I would like thank Relaxing Journeys and especially Cameron for organising a wonderful holiday for all of us. The whole experience was superbly well organised from arrival to departure with every last detail planned and taken care of, making it a truly relaxing journey, allowing us to take in all that New Zealand had to offer. On top of that even though we visited in August the weather was excellent and didn't stop us from doing anything. Even when things went wrong outside of Relaxing Journeys control when one of our planned hotels shut, Cameron had organised us new accommodation with a new voucher and driving instructions faxed to our hotel ready for our departure. Without them we would have turned up to a closed hotel and then have to look for a new hotel. We would not hesitate to re-book a tour with Relaxing Journeys as there is still a lot of New Zealand to see and would also recommend them to anyone. Once again many thanks.
David, Jo, Lynne & Neil Briggs (United Kingdom) Tour Date 15/09/2008
Sadly our fantastic NZ holiday finished over three weeks ago. We wanted to say a great big thank you to all at Relaxing Journeys who helped in making our holiday so enjoyable and such a great success. The detail in our itinerary was really helpful, may we compliment your company on such a professional package. If we are ever able to come back to NZ again (I really hope) we will be sure to use your company again. Once again many thanks, and all good wishes to all at Relaxing Journeys for 2008.
Rosie & Malcolm Ward (United Kingdom) Tour Date 12/12/2007
2012/13 Season Sale! Save 10% off the prices shown on our website, for 01 May to 31 Aug 2012 departures. Save 5% on all other departures. Deposit this month to qualify!
*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 2013.
International flights to & from New Zealand are not included.
Breakfasts are optional for mid range self drive tours, please select your preference when requesting a quote.
Mixed accommodation pricing is available on request.
For families we can also price our mid range self drive tours using self catering apartments.
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 last amended 5 April 2012.
