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.
Dive deep into the true natural beauty of New Zealand, on a route less travelled but no less fascinating. The hidden wonders of the South Island are waiting to be discovered. This journey gives you the opportunity to uniquely experience the ever-changing landscape. Have close encounters with rare and native wildlife. Meet the locals and more.
Quick facts about this sample itinerary
This itinerary will be customised to suit your individual wishes
Best travel time is September - October and March - April
Moderate travel pace with 1-4 nights at each location
The average drive between each accommodation is 2 to 4 hours
Stay with locals at 12 locations, away from the crowds
Choose from a diverse mix of activities with locals
Collect your rental car in Queenstown and return in Christchurch
Below, you can discover our suggested locations. 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
Enjoy a day trip to the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu by jet boatHiking enthusiasts will be in heaven in the Fiordland National ParkCycle through New Zealand's spectacular landscapesHave a close encounter with Kiwi on Stewart IslandInvercargill is the gateway to Stewart IslandExplore an untouched, rugged corner of New ZealandHave a close encounter with wildlife on the Otago PeninsulaLake Wanaka is the gateway to exploring the wilderness of Mount Aspiring National ParkEnjoy picturesque views in every direction in OmaramaDon't miss out on a picture-perfect moment at The Church of the Good ShepherdSoak up the fresh rural air with views of the snow-capped Southern AlpsThe best way to explore Christchurch is on foot
Queenstown
2 nights
New Zealand's adventure capital is centred around the crystal waters of Lake Wakatipu and nestled between dramatic mountain ranges.
Fiordland National Park
3 nights
A nature lover’s paradise named on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Ancient rainforests, snow-capped mountains, tumbling waterfalls and the remarkable Milford and Doubtful Sound fiords.
Central Otago
2 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.
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.
Invercargill & Southland
1 night
Southlanders are friendly with a unique thick accent. Varying landscapes can be discovered from waterfalls and forests to rolling hills, farms and remote coastlines. You can even drive on the beach at Oreti Beach.
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.
Otago Peninsula
4 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.
Wanaka
2 nights
An ultimate outdoor base to explore the Southern Alps and Mt Aspiring National Park. The crystal clear waters of Lake Wanaka are ideal for fly fishing, boat cruises, jet boating, kayaking and swimming.
Omarama
2 nights
Omarama is home to world-class gliding - soar over the Waitaki Valley and soak up the views of Mount Cook. Sports enthusiasts don’t have to look too far - hiking and mountain biking tracks are plentiful.
Tekapo
2 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.
Canterbury High Country
2 nights
It’s all about adventure, farms and relaxing amongst nature in the highlands. Go hiking through the mountains, kayaking on Lake Heron or mountain biking on the remote Bridge to Nowhere Cycle Trail.
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.
Price From
£5,988Per person
Whats included?
28 nights staying at small-scale accommodations
Moderate travel pace with 1-4 nights at each location
Average driving distance between each accommodation is 2-4 hours
Stay at 12 different locations
Choose from a diverse mix of activities in nature and with locals
Stay with locals, away from the crowds
Fully insured large SUV
Your holiday is CO2 compensated
Return economy flights
We can alter this itinerary to suit your needs and interests
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.
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 9am until 6pm. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.
020 36 95 95 69
