South Island New Zealand Road Trip: Glaciers, Cities & Peaks

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Amazing Experience

Overview

  • Trace New Zealand’s east coast from Christchurch to Nelson for wildlife encounters and coastal scenery.
  • Drift between Nelson’s golden beaches and Abel Tasman walks framed by turquoise water.
  • Cross historic Westport and Punakaiki en route to Greymouth’s wild West Coast landscapes.
  • Wander Franz Josef’s rainforest valleys before travelling through Haast Pass towards alpine Queenstown.
  • Follow lakes to Te Anau, explore Milford Sound, then continue to Dunedin and Christchurch.

 

Trip Includes

  • 2 nights premium accommodation in Nelson
  • 1 night premium accommodation in Greymouth
  • 1 night premium accommodation in Franz Josef
  • 2 nights premium accommodation in Queenstown
  • 1 night moderate accommodation in Te Anau
  • 1 night moderate accommodation in Dunedin
  • 1 night premium accommodation in Christchurch
    of first-class accommodation
  • 10-day intermediate car rental, including unlimited kilometres and mandatory vehicle insurance

 

Trip Excludes

  • Travel insurance
  • International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
  • Meals and beverages not explicitly listed as included
  • Gratuities
  • Optional excursions
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Passport & Visa fees, if applicable

 

Summary

Terms and Conditions

Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.

 

After collecting your car depart Christchurch and drive north to Kaikoura, renowned for its year round whale and dolphin watching. Travel via Blenheim and on to Nelson where sunshine, golden beaches, national parks, boutique wineries and waterfront cafés await you.

 

Pick Up: Christchurch Airport

Drop Off: Christchurch Airport

 

Christchurch to Nelson 428 km (266 miles)

 

Your Accommodation

Rutherford Hotel Nelson

Rutherford Hotel Nelson is a premier Conference Hotel at the center of New Zealand within easy access of some of the country’s most stunning sites and activities. Nelson is renowned for its local art, craft and produce which we present to our guests during their stay to create that memorable experience.

Rutherford Hotel Nelson

Lots of options today including beaches to explore, harbour cruises, walks or adventure activities. Nelson is also the gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park, the smallest of New Zealand's national parks, with glittering beaches, turquoise water and spectacular ocean views.

 

Nelson at leisure

 

Your Accommodation

Rutherford Hotel Nelson

Rutherford Hotel Nelson is a premier Conference Hotel at the center of New Zealand within easy access of some of the country’s most stunning sites and activities. Nelson is renowned for its local art, craft and produce which we present to our guests during their stay to create that memorable experience.

Rutherford Hotel Nelson

From Nelson journey through scenic reserves to Westport. Westport is a historic coal-mining settlement; the coal town museum has historical exhibitions and photographic displays. Visit the seal colony before continuing on to Punakaiki.

 

Nelson to Greymouth 275 km (180 miles)

 

Your Accommodation

Bella Vista Greymouth

This property has been independently assessed by Qualmark as 4-star quality accommodation. Greymouth is a great base for all your West Coast adventures. From the moment you arrive, you'll enjoy the convenience of being located in close proximity to the town centre for business, shops, entertainment and other activities. At Bella Vista Greymouth we cater for all your business or recreational needs. We are easy to find on High Street, 100m from the Aquatic Centre, new sports stadium (Basketball / Netball) Tennis and Hockey Turf. We have ample safe parking so you can leave your car, avoid parking issues, walk to work or explore on foot. Our superior smoke-free accommodation includes a variety of studios and one-bedroom units. The purpose-built access units have been designed with parking at the door for your convenience. You have a choice of super-king, king, queen or single beds with electric blankets for those cooler nights. Wireless internet is available with a spacious work desk in every room. Units vary from just tea and toast making facilities to those with cooking facilities. We offer continental breakfasts and evening meals charge back facilities, dine in or dine out. You can be assured of a warm welcome at reception where we will assist you in every way possible. Experience true West Coast hospitality at its best.

Bella Vista Greymouth

This morning explore Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and the Blowholes before continuing south to Franz Josef, an area of mountain peaks, impressive glaciers, tranquil lakes, raging rivers, lush rainforest and a magnificent coastline. Explore the base of the glaciers or take a scenic flight.

 

Greymouth to Glaciers 227 km (135 miles)

 

Your Accommodation

Glenfern Villas Franz Josef

We are entrusted to continually enhance our environment. The constant development of our embankment and native gardens makes the complex quieter and has seen a dramatic increase in native birdlife that can be enjoyed around your Villa. We are committed to reducing waste by making available a variety of recycling bins. Situated just outside of the busy township, several restaurants offer a free pick-up and drop-off service to/from Glenfern Villas. This will enable you to enjoy your dinner with beverages in town without the need for you to drive. We are more than happy to arrange this for you during your stay.

Glenfern Villas Franz Josef

Travel through the scenic wilderness of Haast Pass, stopping along the way to take advantage of many short nature walks and picnic spots before continuing to Queenstown.

 

Glacier Region to Queenstown 404 km (251 miles)

 

Your Accommodation

Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown

The Heritage Queenstown offers enchanting views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkable Mountain Range. A short distance from the town centre, this unique European style lodge is surrounded by native forest in the heart of New Zealand's alpine wonderland. Crafted from centuries old schist and cedar, The Heritage Queenstown is the perfect place to relax in comfortable yet sophisticated surroundings. The Heritage offers a choice of 178 luxury rooms, including traditional deluxe hotel accommodation and spacious 1 or 2 bedroom Suites. Each room is thoughtfully decorated, featuring individual touches which reflect unique high country origins.

Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown

Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the majestic Southern Alps, Queenstown is recognised as New Zealand's premier visitor destination.

 

Queenstown at leisure

 

Your Accommodation

Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown

The Heritage Queenstown offers enchanting views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkable Mountain Range. A short distance from the town centre, this unique European style lodge is surrounded by native forest in the heart of New Zealand's alpine wonderland. Crafted from centuries old schist and cedar, The Heritage Queenstown is the perfect place to relax in comfortable yet sophisticated surroundings. The Heritage offers a choice of 178 luxury rooms, including traditional deluxe hotel accommodation and spacious 1 or 2 bedroom Suites. Each room is thoughtfully decorated, featuring individual touches which reflect unique high country origins.

Rendezvous Heritage Queenstown

Journey through mountains and alongside lakes to Te Anau. We suggest a cruise on Milford Sound with its sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls and majestic Mitre Peak.

 

Queenstown to Te Anau 170 km (106 miles)

 

Your Accommodation

Bella Vista Te Anau

Te Anau is the hub of the Fiordland region and the perfect base for your adventures. From the moment you arrive you'll enjoy the convenience of being located in close proximity to downtown Te Anau for business, shopping, entertainment and other activities. 18 superior smoke free units include a variety of studios and one bedroom suites with parking at the door for your convenience. Unlimited free WIFI is available with a spacious work desk in every room. Units vary from just tea and toast making facilities to those with cooking facilities.

Bella Vista Te Anau

Today is spent driving the southern scenic route exploring the Catlins area. The Catlins is home to an abundance of wildlife, and Nugget Point is a stunning and accessible place for viewing seals and penguins. Continue to Dunedin, an historic university town, which still feels the influence of its Scottish settlers as it is renowned as the "Edinburgh of the South".

 

Te Anau to Dunedin 290 km (180 miles)

 

Your Accommodation

Scenic Hotel Southern Cross Dunedin

The Scenic Hotel Southern Cross provides stylish inner city accommodation, giving the convenience of having entertainment, shopping and restaurants close at hand. Just a short walk from the Octagon, railway station, theatres, shops, and close to Otago university, it is the perfect location from which to explore Dunedin. Whether you are staying for business or pleasure, it is hard to go past the Scenic Hotel Southern Cross. Dating back to 1883, this landmark building now blends Dunedin’s distinctive charm and heritage with modern styles and comforts. Your every comfort is well provided for, with 178 attractive rooms and suites, extensive hotel facilities, and a very high standard of service. This has earned the Scenic Hotel Southern Cross a 4-star plus Qualmark rating, as well as the Enviro-Silver award.

Scenic Hotel Southern Cross Dunedin

Depart Dunedin and head north to Timaru a place known for its extensive Edwardian and Victorian architecture. Stop and enjoy the coastal views from Caroline Bay before continuing on to Christchurch.

 

Dunedin to Christchurch 362 km (225 miles)

 

Your Accommodation

Crowne Plaza Christchurch

The hotel is 2 minutes' walk from New Regent Street, 6 minutes' walk from Christchurch Casino and 5 minutes' drive from the centre of Christchurch CBD (Central Business District). Christchurch Airport is 18 minutes' drive away.

Crowne Plaza Christchurch

This morning is at leisure before returning your rental vehicle.

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