Experience authentic New Zealand

4 weeks of the South Island

Below, you can discover a suggested itinerary, but we design each holiday for you. Enjoy a taste, and contact us to discuss your plans.

Quick facts about this sample itinerary

Feel free to adjust your comfort level, add activity packages along the route, and indicate whether you would like us to arrange your flights. The price indication is based on travel in high season, so shoulder season travel will often give you a price advantage.

Route and Impressions

new-zealand
The best way to explore Christchurch is on foot
The best way to explore Christchurch is on foot
Swim with Hector's dolphin
Swim with Hector's dolphin
Canterbury is the largest region of New Zealand with diverse landscapes
Canterbury is the largest region of New Zealand with diverse landscapes
Have a close encounter with wildlife on the Otago Peninsula
Have a close encounter with wildlife on the Otago Peninsula
Explore an untouched, rugged corner of New Zealand
Explore an untouched, rugged corner of New Zealand
Have a close encounter with Kiwi on Stewart Island
Have a close encounter with Kiwi on Stewart Island
Spot dolphins in Doubtful Sound
Spot dolphins in Doubtful Sound
Enjoy a day trip to the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu by jet boat
Enjoy a day trip to the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu by jet boat
Cycle through New Zealand's spectacular landscapes
Cycle through New Zealand's spectacular landscapes
Don't miss out on a picture-perfect moment at The Church of the Good Shepherd
Don't miss out on a picture-perfect moment at The Church of the Good Shepherd
The best way to explore Christchurch is on foot
The best way to explore Christchurch is on foot

Christchurch

2 nights

The Christchurch Botanic Gardens should be at the top of your list during your stay here, spreading over 21 hectares. Set in Hagley Park, it is a popular park for the locals to enjoy a range of sporting activities. 

Akaroa

3 nights

Enjoy the scenic drive to Akaroa on the Bank’s Peninsula. A historic French village, home to colonial architecture, galleries and craft stores. Hector's dolphin can be spotted swimming here.

Canterbury

3 nights

The impressive Southern Alps mountain range makes for a mighty backdrop. Spend a few days on a farm stay and experience the day-to-day rural life of a farmer and their animals.

Otago Peninsula

2 nights

The scenic drive to Otago Peninsula boasts rugged volcanic views with untouched beaches. Home to an abundance of wildlife including New Zealand fur seals, albatross and yellow-eyed penguins.

Catlins

3 nights

Swim with rare Hector’s dolphins at Curio Bay. Spot yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals and sun-bathing sea lions. Heading inland, there are many waterfalls to explore, scattered around the coastal rainforest. 

Stewart Island

3 nights

Experience the wild beauty with dense forest, rugged coastline and sandy beaches. The Rakiura National Park makes up 85% of the island. Discover the hiking tracks and spot native Kiwi birds.

Te Anau & Manapouri

3 nights

The perfect base to visit Doubtful and Milford Sounds. Adventure lovers can also kayak, take a scenic flight, go jet boat fishing or sailing on the lake. Driving along the Milford Road is simply breathtaking.

Queenstown

3 nights

New Zealand's adventure capital is centred around the crystal waters of Lake Wakatipu and nestled between dramatic mountain ranges.

Central Otago

3 nights

Featuring a vast brown landscape, snow-capped mountains, crystal blue rivers, deep gorges and tussock-clad hills. Go vineyard hopping or cycle the 152-kilometre Otago Central Rail Trail.

Tekapo

3 nights

Gleaming with bright turquoise waters and surrounded by the peaks of the Southern Alps. It’s the best place to stargaze in New Zealand, with its clear nights and lack of light pollution.

Christchurch

1 night

The Christchurch Botanic Gardens should be at the top of your list during your stay here, spreading over 21 hectares. Set in Hagley Park, it is a popular park for the locals to enjoy a range of sporting activities. 

Price From

£6,400 Per person
Whats included?
  • 28 nights staying at comfortable small-scale accommodations
  • Relaxed travel pace with 1-3 nights at each location
  • Stay at 12 different locations
  • Accommodations include bed & breakfasts, cottages, villas and lodges
  • Most breakfasts and several dinners
  • Your holiday is CO2 compensated
  • Return premium economy flights
  • Fully insured medium SUV
  • Choose from a diverse mix of active activities in nature with locals
  • We can alter this itinerary to suit your needs and interests

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At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.