Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Christchurch Airport, where you’ll be met by private transfer to your luxurious accommodation at Sudima Christchurch City. Unwind in your Luxe King room and prepare for the remarkable adventure that awaits.

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, your eight-day self-drive adventure begins. Collect your intermediate car rental and head south towards Lake Tekapo. Along the way, take in the picturesque landscapes that encompass the Canterbury Plains and the Southern Alps. Arriving in Lake Tekapo, check into Peppers Bluewater Resort, your home for the night. As the sun sets, embark on the Dark Sky Project Summit Experience, where you’ll be mesmerized by the southern hemisphere’s starry spectacle.

Wake up to breathtaking lake views before hitting the road towards Oamaru. Your journey offers glimpses of New Zealand’s varied scenery, from turquoise lakes to rolling hills. In Oamaru, your enchanting Victoria Room at historic Pen-y-Bryn Lodge awaits. With intriguing history and a sumptuous interior the Victorian-era mansion exudes a sense of grace and comfort.

On one evening, embark on the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony Evening Viewing, a heartwarming encounter with these endearing creatures.

Bordered by the stunning coastline of the Pacific, Oamaru offers nature lovers the chance to explore nesting colonies of little blue penguins, yellow-eyed penguins and rare seabirds. For culture lovers the famed limestone architecture houses the cool and quirky world of steampunk and plenty of fashion, art and cuisine discoveries. New Zealand’s best-preserved example of a Victorian streetscape is both utterly unique and altogether captivating.

Bid farewell to Oamaru and drive south to the vibrant city of Dunedin. Check into Larnach Lodge, a historic and charming accommodation nestled on the picturesque Otago Peninsula. In the afternoon, set sail on the Peninsula Encounters Wildlife Cruise, a unique opportunity to witness a wide array of marine and birdlife, including royal albatross.

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Dunedin before continuing your journey south to Queenstown. Your accommodation at Queenstown House B&B and Apartments offers splendid lake views and a perfect base for your adventures in this adventure capital. The drive takes you through magnificent Central Otago landscapes. Upon arrival, explore Queenstown’s vibrant town center and its array of restaurants and bars.

Today, embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to Milford Sound. Fly from Queenstown to Milford Sound, where you’ll experience a Nature Cruise amidst the fjord’s stunning cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife. After your cruise, return to Queenstown by air, taking in breathtaking aerial views of the region.

Leave Queenstown behind and travel through the stunning landscapes of the Southern Alps. En route to Franz Josef, take in the remarkable beauty of the Haast Pass and the West Coast rainforest. Your stay at Westwood Lodge, a quaint Bed and Breakfast will feel like a home away from home.

Immerse yourself in Franz Josef’s natural wonders on a Franz Josef Nature Tour, where you’ll venture deep into the rainforest and discover the region’s unique flora and fauna.

Drive north to Greymouth, where you’ll board the world-renowned TranzAlpine Rail. This iconic journey takes you through the Southern Alps and Arthur’s Pass, showcasing New Zealand’s alpine beauty. Arrive in Christchurch and enjoy a comfortable night’s stay at Sudima Christchurch City.

Your South Island adventure ends with lasting memories of stunning landscapes, wildlife encounters, and incredible experiences. After breakfast, a private transfer will take you to Christchurch Airport, where you’ll bid farewell to this captivating journey through New Zealand’s natural wonders.