Sample itineraries

4 week route from Akaroa to the Bay of Islands

Route and Impressions
Price guide per person
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Would like to visit some of New Zealand's greatest highlights? This trip is for you. A perfect blend of the North and South Island with a mix of nature, culture, food & wine and local gems. Featuring some of the country's most astonishing places, it's an ideal route to get better acquainted with the outdoor Kiwi lifestyle, together with your friends

Quick facts about this sample itinerary

This itinerary will be customised to suit your individual wishes
Best travel time is October - November and March - April
Relaxed travel pace with 2-3 nights at each location
The average drive between each accommodation is 3 to 4.5 hours
Stay with locals at 13 locations, away from the crowds
Choose from a diverse mix of activities with locals
Collect your rental car in Christchurch and return in Auckland
Ferry Crossing - Picton to Wellington

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

Is there a better location for a bathroom?

Have a close encounter with wildlife on the Otago Peninsula

Hiking enthusiasts will be in heaven in the Fiordland National Park

Lake Wanaka is the gateway to exploring the wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park

For a real “off the grid” experience, visit the small towns of Haast and Bruce Bay

Wander through native forest to the rugged coastline of Hokitika

Discover the crystal waters of Abel Tasman

Savour Wellington city's assortment of culinary delights

Get a bird's eye view of Taupo in a float plane

For 360 degree views of Auckland City, walk to the summit of Mount Eden

Experience the magic of the Bay of Islands

Akaroa

2 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.

Mount Cook

2 nights

At 3724 metres, Mount Cook is the towering centrepiece of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park and New Zealand’s highest mountain. A vast alpine landscape with snow-capped peaks, glaciers, lakes and ski fields.

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.

Fiordland National Park

2 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.

Wanaka

3 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.

Haast & Bruce Bay

2 nights

Go hiking and hunting, or simply relax on the beaches, with almost no one around. Haast is set in the heart of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage area, surrounded by national parks and rainforests.

Hokitika

2 nights

Famous for its west coast whitebait, be sure to indulge in some taste testing. Hike the Hokitika Gorge Walk, through the dense forest and over a swing bridge, for the best views of the blue-green Hokitika River.

Kaikoura

2 nights

Kaikoura lies between the rugged Seaward Kaikoura Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean, offering spectacular views. The nutrient-rich water attracts whales, seals, albatross and dolphins.

Abel Tasman

3 nights

Explore the coastline, golden beaches and lush native forest by foot. Or kayak past secluded bays and islands, and spot marine life such as seals, penguins and dolphins.

Wellington City

2 nights

A vibrant and compact city, bursting with an array of things to see and do. Dive into the coffee culture, visit Te Papa Museum and soak up the views from Mount Victoria.

Taupo

3 nights

A thermal wonderland of active volcanoes, trout-filled rivers, alpine tussock and ancient forests. As you make your way around the lake, you will discover an array of different landscapes.

Auckland City

2 nights

The ‘City of Sails’ is surrounded by diverse landscapes. From the rugged coastline at Piha and Bethells Beach to the calm, sheltered and golden sand at Mission Bay.

Bay of Islands

3 nights

A natural playground with over 140 sub-tropical islands. Discover the secluded bays, dramatic coastline, crystal blue waters and marine wildlife by boat.

Price guide per person

Detailed pricing and information

Every holiday is tailor-made based on your wishes and needs. Our advisors are locals with many tips and ideas to ensure your holiday is just perfect, for you.