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Day 1: Arrive Auckland
Welcome to Auckland! On arrival at the airport you collect your rental vehicle before making your way to your centrally located accommodation. Also included for the duration of your car hire is the KRUSE GPS Travel Guide, which as well as offering GPS navigation also provides informative commentary on the regions you pass through as well as a 'Best of NZ' button which showcases New Zealand's award winning restaurants, wineries, cafes, pubs and hidden scenic gems.
| Hotel: |
Sky City Hotel |
| B&B: |
Hotel DeBrett |
| Boutique: |
Mollies |
Day 2: Auckland to the Coromandel
Depart Auckland as you drive the Pacific Coast Highway and traverse the spectacular east coast of the North Island. Linking Auckland and Coromandel, this is classed as one of the great touring routes in the world travelling through a unique region where land and sea intermingle. At Coromandel Town you may like to visit Driving Creek Railway, New Zealand's only narrow-gauge mountain railway along with a working pottery and wild life sanctuary. You then continue on to reach your accommodation.
| Hotel: |
Grand Mercure Puka Park (2 nights) |
| B&B: |
Hahei Oceanfront (2 nights) |
| Boutique: |
Villa Toscana (2 nights) |
Day 3: Hahei Explorer
Overseas visitors and kiwis alike are discovering the excitement and adventure of a unique boat trip operating within the new Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine reserve on the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula. The Explorer trip takes you into coastal Islands of the marine reserve, reefs, massive sea caves and bays, including the world famous Cathedral Cove. The magnificence of this natural Volcanic scenery is legendary and the approach by sea, combined with an insightful yet relaxed commentary further enhances the experience. Marine life is all around and can be experienced close up because the boat is right in amongst the natural scenery.
Day 4: Coromandel to Rotorua & Maori Cultural Encounter
Depart today and travel along the Bay of Plenty Coastline before heading inland across the volcanic plateau to the geothermal city of Rotorua, passing many of the regions crystal clear lakes en-route to Rotorua. Best known for its geysers, boiling mud pools, crystal lakes teeming with trout, steaming cliffs and volcanoes, Rotorua is also the home of Maori culture. This evening you enjoy an unforgettable cultural experience at Mitai Maori Village. See Maori warriors paddling down stream by waka (ancient war canoe), followed by Maori cultural performance, succulent hangi meal, tranquil bush walk, glow worm viewing, and visit to sacred Fairy Spring.
| Hotel: |
Novotel Rotorua Lakeside (2 nights) |
| B&B: |
Nicara Lakeside Lodge (2 nights) |
| Boutique: |
The Lodge at 199 (2 nights) |
Day 5: Rotorua Sightseeing
A fun filled morning is in store as you discover three of Rotorua's best attractions! Your pass includes The Agrodome Sheep Show, an exciting and informative insight into the world of New Zealand agriculture. You then visit Rainbow Springs Kiwi Wildlife Park which offers great features including kiwi, trout, tuatara, pigs, sheep, native birds and trees and New Zealand's only 'open to view' kiwi hatchery and rearing facility. End your activities with a visit to Te Puia, the premier Maori cultural centre in New Zealand - a place of gushing waters, steaming vents, boiling mud pools and spectacular geysers.
Day 6: Rotorua to Taupo
The road to Taupo will keep you entertained with its unusual, volcanic geography. You’ll also drive through large tracts of plantation pine forest. Taupo is also home to New Zealand's largest lake and the spectacular Huka Falls. Here you enjoy a truly magical experience! This 90 minute scenic helicopter flight takes in Lake Taupo’s scenic spots on the way to Mount Ruapehu’s steaming Crater Lake, set amongst snow covered peaks. Here you will be able to photograph the stunning lava flows, glacial valleys and colourful volcanic formations that are only visible from the air. Enjoy an alpine landing in the Kaimanawa ranges before heading back up the shoreline of Lake Taupo on your way back.
| Hotel: |
Wairakei Resort |
| B&B: |
Paeroa Lakeside Homestay |
| Boutique: |
Chalet Eiger |
Day 7: Taupo to Wellington
Today you follow the eastern edge of Lake Taupo to reach the town of Turangi, renowned for its trout fishing. The drive is very scenic and there are many picnic opportunities along the way. Then you travel on the long, straight Desert Road and enjoy amazing views of Tongariro National Park’s volcanoes. Then as you drive south towards Taihape the landscape becomes dominated by rivers and valleys before travelling through lush farmland to reach Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand.
| Hotel: |
Rydges Wellington (2 nights) |
| B&B: |
Lambton Heights (2 nights) |
| Boutique: |
Museum Hotel (2 nights) |
Day 8: Walk Wellington
The best way to discover the heart and soul of Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city is on foot as you enjoy a personal introduction to the city. The enthusiastic, local guides reveal stories about Wellington’s past, present, people and places – things you won’t always find in the guide books. They will give you a unique insight into Wellington’s heritage and its dynamic arts and social scene, and also tips about what’s on, where to eat and shop. The guides have a deep knowledge and love of Wellington and enjoy helping to make your visit an absolutely positively fantastic experience. You’ll visit the stunning waterfront, bustling city centre, and historic Parliamentary neighbourhood.
Day 9: Wellington to Christchurch
Travel to Wellington Airport today and return your rental vehicle in time to connect with your onward flight to Christchurch. On arrival, collect your new vehicle and make your way to your accommodation. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax or explore what Christchurch has to offer.
| Hotel: |
Millennium Christchurch (2 nights) |
| B&B: |
Elm Tree House (2 nights) |
| Boutique: |
The George Hotel (2 nights) |
Day 10: Akaroa Harbour Wildlife Cruise
Today you follow the route from Christchurch to Akaroa, one of the most scenic short drives anywhere in New Zealand. Here you cruise around an extinct volcanic crater and experience majestic scenery and stunning wildlife on your Akaroa harbour cruise. The highlight of this trip is undoubtedly the sighting of one of the world's smallest and rarest dolphins, the Hector's or New Zealand Dolphin. Also on the trip you will catch glimpses of the White Flippered Blue Penguin, the smallest penguin in the world as well as the New Zealand Fur Seal sunning themselves on the harbours rocks near the entrance at Seal Bay. Stop at Lucas Bay to look at a salmon farm where thousands of salmon from fingerlings to adult fish are farmed in a series of cages. You will see them jumping as you approach. This is where the world-famous 'Akaroa Salmon' are raised.
Day 11: Christchurch to Queenstown
This morning retrace your steps to Christchurch and travel through diverse farmland to Lake Tekapo, where you can view the solitary Church of the Good Shepherd. Continue south to the small town of Twizel before continuing on through the golden tussock country of the Lindis Pass. Enjoy the scenery of the fruit growing region of Cromwell and the historic gold mining region of the rugged Kawarau Gorge before arriving in Queenstown.
| Hotel: |
Heritage Hotel Queenstown (3 nights) |
| B&B: |
Browns Boutique Hotel (3 nights) |
| Boutique: |
The Dairy Private Hotel (3 nights) |
Day 12: Discover Milford Sound
This morning depart on an unforgettable journey from Queenstown into Milford Sound as you travel by coach 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 and explore dramatic, moody Milford Sound in a leisurely and relaxed way with your nature guides. Throughout your cruise, the nature guide provides an engaging commentary about the magnificent scenery and wildlife. Keep a look out for dolphins, seals and penguins. After your cruise you join your scenic flight back to Queenstown. Hanging valleys, alpine lakes and cloud-piercing summits hidden from the road are just some of the reasons why flying between Milford Sound & Queenstown is an excursion of a lifetime!
Day 13: 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.
Day 14: Queenstown to West Coast Glacier Country
Departing today travel through the popular lakeside townships of Hawea and Wanaka. Then, view incredible scenery as you travel past the untouched native forests and pristine lakes of the World Heritage Westland National Park and Haast Pass to reach your destination in Glacier Country.
| Hotel: |
Scenic Hotel Franz Josef Glacier |
| B&B: |
Holly Homestead |
| Boutique: |
Te Waonui Retreat |
Day 15: West Coast to Christchurch
Travel further north along the rugged West Coast to Greymouth. Your journey features some spectacular countryside with the rugged Tasman Sea to the west and the stunning Southern Alps to the east. Then return your rental vehicle at Greymouth before boarding the world famous TranzAlpine Train, described as one of the world’s great scenic railway journeys! Ascend through lush beech forests past the beautiful Lake Brunner via the alpine village of Arthur’s Pass situated 737 metres above sea level, before crossing the spectacular Southern Alps. Then wind over massive viaducts, through spectacular river gorges and the stunning Waimakariri River valley to arrive in Christchurch. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your accommodation.
| Hotel: |
Millennium Christchurch |
| B&B: |
Elm Tree House |
| Boutique: |
The George Hotel |
Day 16: Depart Christchurch
Sadly your time in New Zealand comes to an end as you are transferred by private vehicle to Christchurch Airport in time to join your onward flight. Here, we bid you a fond farewell to your homeland and hope you leave with many happy memories of your stay in Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Please note that this self drive package can be taken in reverse order and the prices remain the same.
If you are interested in receiving further details about this package, please complete the enquiry form below.
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Package Prices
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EARLYBIRD SPECIAL
Save 10% off the prices shown for travel completed between 01 January 2012 & 30 April 2012.
Offer is valid for all new bookings received before
31 March 2012 when booking directly with Luxury Vacations New Zealand. | Valid for travel 01 January 2012 to 30 April 2012
| Vehicle Choices (More Info)
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Hotel |
B&B |
Boutique |
| Intermediate Sedan |
$5,842 |
$6,282 |
$8,040 |
| Full Size Sedan |
$5,851 |
$6,291 |
$8,049 |
| Intermediate 4WD |
$5,997 |
$6,437 |
$8,196 |
| Full Size 4WD |
$6,135 |
$6,574 |
$8,333 |
- Prices are per person in New Zealand Dollars, based on share twin accommodation
- Prices include New Zealand Goods & Services Tax (15%)
- Single & triple prices available on request
- Please note that the B&B properties and some of the Boutique properties do not cater for children
Fully Flexible Holidays!
All of our self drive holidays are completely flexible. Whether you want to mix and match a couple of packages, add some extra nights before, after or during your stay or include some additional attractions or activities, our team of travel specialists are here to assist you. We're New Zealander's so we have the local knowledge and expertise to tailor a package just for you. Just let us know when you enquire.
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