Itinerary
"Fall" in love with New Zealand on this 23-day self-drive journey, travelling both the North and South Islands.
Welcome to Auckland! Upon arrival, pick up your rental car and head to your accommodation for the evening. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the city at your own pace.
Start the first leg of your adventure as you make your way to the charming country town of Matamata. A short 10-minute drive from town will lead you to the stunning Wairere Falls, the tallest waterfall in the North Island.
After your glowworm adventure, continue your journey to the famous Hobbiton movie set. Enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour, exploring the iconic Hobbit holes, enjoying a drink at the Green Dragon Inn, and learning how this picturesque farmland was transformed into the magical world of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit films.
Once your Hobbiton experience concludes, drive to Rotorua, your final destination for the day. After checking into your accommodation, take the rest of the evening to relax and explore the local dining scene.
Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You might want to visit the stunning Tarawera Falls, where water crashes through volcanic rock, cascading 35 metres into a lush forest below. Alternatively, Rotorua offers a wide range of activities to suit every interest—whether you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping adventures, cultural experiences, relaxation and rejuvenation, or exploring the region’s famous geothermal wonders.
Today, get ready for an adrenaline-filled adventure as you embark on a white-water rafting journey down the Kaituna River. Start by paddling through the pristine heart of New Zealand’s premier rafting region, then experience the thrill of dropping down three waterfalls and navigating 14 exhilarating rapids. Finally, enjoy a more tranquil paddle through the calm waters, recovering from the action-packed ride.
Enjoy a scenic 1-hour drive through the heart of New Zealand’s lush native wilderness as you travel from Rotorua to Taupo. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and spend the rest of the day exploring Taupo at your own pace.
Get ready for an adrenaline rush with the Huka Falls Jet today! Speed past riverbanks, feel the excitement of 360-degree spins, and get up close to the powerful Huka Falls. After your thrilling ride, take some time to explore the area, including a scenic walking track that follows the river.
Bid farewell to Taupo today as you journey to New Zealand’s vibrant capital, Wellington. This scenic drive will take you through rolling farmland, picturesque native forests, and charming kiwi towns. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and enjoy the rest of the day unwinding at your leisure.
Today is yours to explore Wellington at your own pace. Consider visiting Weta Workshop for a behind-the-scenes look at how artists create movie magic, or head to Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, to discover the country’s rich history and culture. Whatever you choose, Wellington has a wealth of activities, shopping, and fine dining to enjoy.
This morning, head to the Wellington Ferry Terminal and load your rental car onto the Interislander Ferry. Say farewell to the North Island as you cruise across the Cook Strait, heading towards the South Island. Upon arrival in Picton Harbour, collect your car and drive to Nelson, where you can spend the rest of the day exploring at your leisure.
Summer: Explore the stunning Abel Tasman National Park today with Wilsons Abel Tasman Ltd. Cruise along golden beaches, then take a walk through native forest to a secluded cove where you’ll discover the breathtaking Bark Bay Falls.
Autumn: Experience the beauty of Abel Tasman today with a full-day adventure led by Abel Tasman Sailing Adventures. Cruise along the picturesque coastline, walk through lush forests, spot playful seals, and enjoy a relaxing sail back.
**Seasonality will determine which experience you enjoy. The summer option is unavailable from May to June.
Today, enter the South Island’s stunning West Coast as you make your way to Punakaiki. Here, you can explore the iconic Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, marveling at the unique rock formations and the impressive natural displays.
Today, continue your journey down the West Coast as you arrive in the glacial region of Franz Josef. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and consider exploring the glaciers. There are several walking tracks around the base, offering a scenic adventure and stunning views of both the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.
Today, explore the serene beauty of Lake Matheson with Glacier Valley Eco Tours. This guided nature tour takes you through lush native forest, where you’ll discover the unique flora and fauna of the region. Be awestruck by the lake’s iconic mirror-like reflections of the Southern Alps, including Aoraki/Mount Cook, and enjoy unforgettable views at every turn.
Enjoy a scenic coastal drive to Wanaka today, with a stop at Haast to see the stunning Blue Pools along the way. For the best experience, aim to visit around midday when the pools are at their most vibrant, showcasing their striking blue hue.
Today, experience the thrill of Wildwire Wanaka’s Level 1 climb, ideal for beginners. Ascend alongside a stunning waterfall, cross suspension bridges, and take in breathtaking views of Wanaka’s alpine landscapes. Once your climb is complete, continue your journey to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital.
Today is yours to explore Queenstown at your own pace. For an adrenaline rush, consider a thrilling ride with Shotover Jet, or take the gondola to Skyline Queenstown for luge rides, ziplining, or simply dining with stunning alpine views. Alternatively, embark on a scenic cruise along Lake Wakatipu aboard the TSS Earnslaw, followed by a delicious Kiwi BBQ lunch at Walter’s Peak.
Say goodbye to Queenstown today and drive towards Southland, with your destination set for Te Anau. With a busy few days ahead, take time to check into your accommodation and unwind, preparing for the unforgettable Fiordland adventures that await.
Enjoy a breathtaking self-drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound this morning. Consider stopping at the Hundred Falls, just after the Homer Tunnel, where you might spot some cheeky native Kea birds. Continue on to Milford Sound, where you’ll spend the afternoon cruising with RealNZ. Search for wildlife such as seals, dolphins, or penguins, marvel at the stunning fiords, and feel the spray from the magnificent Bowen Falls.
Drive to the Manapouri Visitors Centre this morning, where you’ll meet your guide from RealNZ and begin your journey to Doubtful Sound. Once aboard the Wilderness Cruise, you’ll glide through tranquil waters, surrounded by towering fjords and lush rainforests. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including dolphins and seals, as you immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of this remote part of New Zealand.
Today, drive to Dunedin, one of the oldest cities in New Zealand, famous for its well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Spend the rest of the day exploring this historic town at your own pace, discovering its charming streets and vibrant cultural heritage.
Journey up the east coast of the South Island today as you say farewell to Dunedin and head towards Christchurch. Consider a detour to the Acland Falls, located just inland from Ashburton. Nestled within lush native bush, this hidden gem offers a tranquil retreat, where the waterfall cascades dramatically over rocks, creating a serene and picturesque scene—ideal for nature lovers and hikers alike.
Fit in some last-minute sightseeing of Christchurch this morning before returning your rental car and preparing for your next adventure. We hope this journey has left you with unforgettable memories and made you truly “fall” in love with New Zealand.
