NZ Self-Drive Tour: Southern New Zealand - Fiords and Nature
Larnarch Castle, Dunedin
New Zealand
Photographer: Kieran Scott
(www.kieranscott.co.nz)
DAY 1 - Arrive Christchurch
On arrival into Christchurch, collect your rental car and make your way to your accommodation. The rest of the day is free to relax in the "Garden City" – stroll along the banks of the River Avon or visit the Canterbury Museum.
Stay: Christchurch (1 night)
DAY 2 - Christchurch to Dunedin
Today's drive is along the eastern coast of the South Island passing through the regional towns of Timaru and Oamaru and offering views of the dramatic coastline and surf. Dunedin is a city of Scottish heritage, illustrated by striking Edwardian and Victorian architecture. It is also one of the country's largest university centres. We suggest a visit to the unique Moeraki Boulder Beach en route.
Stay: Dunedin (2 nights)
DAY 3 - Dunedin
This morning is free to explore the city. We suggest a visit to historic Olveston House or the Speights Brewery, famous for it's southern ale. This afternoon you will visit the Royal Albatross Colony located on Otago Peninsula followed by a cruise where you will view seal and shag colonies and many other seabirds and sealift.
Crested Penguin, Fiordland
New Zealand
Photographer: Gilbert van Reenen
(www.cleangreen.co.nz)
DAY 4 - Dunedin to Te Anau
Travel through the fertile farmlands of the Otago and Southland provinces. Arrive at Lake Te Anau, the gateway to the World Heritage Fiordland National Park. This evening a visit to the Te Anau Glow-worm Caves is included.
Stay: Te Anau (1 night)
DAY 5 - Te Anau to Milford Sound
Depart Te Anau and follow the Hollyford Valley through beautiful beech forest. Pass through the Homer Tunnel and descend into Milford Sound where you will board the Milford Mariner for an overnight stay cruising the fiord. Enjoy views of the surrounding peaks, waterfalls and wildlife. Dinner and breakfast is included on your cruise.
Stay: Milford Sound Cruise (1 night)
Please note: During the months of May, June, July August and September - your accommodation will be at Lake Te Anau and you can enjoy a day trip to Milford Sound on Day 5 instead.
Deer Park Heights
Queenstown, New Zealand
Photographer: Ian Brodie
(ibrodie@nzfpm.co.nz)
DAY 6 - Milford Sound to Queenstown
After breakfast disembark from the Milford Mariner and travel to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital. Activities include fishing, white-water rafting, bungy jumping, lake cruises or simply relaxing.
Stay: Queenstown (2 nights)
DAY 7 - Queenstown
Take advantage of our special sightseeing offers as you enjoy your stay in Queenstown. A ride to the top of Bobs Peak by gondola is recommended for spectacular views.
DAY 8 - Queenstown to Christchurch
Travel through the Kawarau Gorge, a gold mining region in the 1860’s and through the MacKenzie Country to Lakes Pukaki and Tekapo. Descend onto the Canterbury Plains and continue to Christchurch where your tour ends. (There is an option to end your tour in Queenstown if preferred).
Southern New Zealand - Fiords and Nature Self-Drive Holiday Package Prices
01 October 2011 - 30 April 2012 - Tour prices start from NZ$1,497.00 per person, share twin.
01 May 2012 - 30 September 2012 - Tour prices start from NZ$1,206.00 per person, share twin.
01 October 2012 - 30 April 2013 - Tour prices start from NZ$1,708.00 per person, share twin.
- Prices based on budget accommodation and two persons travelling together
- Prices based on 1.3 litre manual rental car
- Costs do not include international or domestic airfares
Popular (mid range) and superior accommodation options available on request. Different car categories available on request (see self-drive intro details).
Booking Code: SD-10
If you wish to enquire or book this holiday package please fill out our enquiry form.
[North Island Nature]
[South Island - Vineyards, Glaciers and Lakes]
[Southern New Zealand - Fiords and Nature]
[New Zealand - The Grand Tour]
[Great New Zealand]
[Spirit of New Zealand]
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