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Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?
Discover a world beyond ordinary

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.

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NZ - 4 weeks - nature - Experience authentic New Zealand
NZ - 4 weeks - nature - Experience authentic New Zealand
Explore New Zealand, a natural wonderland

4 weeks of the South Island

New Zealand is best known for its volcanic landscapes, snow-capped mountains, ancient forests and friendly locals. However, it is also renowned for its natural spectacles and extraordinary wildlife encounters. Before humans arrived in New Zealand, the country was ruled by birds. On this journey, you will have the opportunity to learn more about New Zealand’s rare flora and fauna, natural heritage and history.

Quick facts about this sample itinerary

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

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

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.

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 guide per person

Travellers
Select accommodation and car
Included accommodations
  • 28 nights in comfortable holiday houses, cottages, bed & breakfasts
  • Pleasant rooms with an ensuite or a private bathroom
  • Includes some breakfasts
Included car
  • Rental for a medium SUV for 29 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
A bike with a basket of wine and food leaning against a brown wall in a winery
Stunning landscape Wanaka region | New Zealand nature
Garden terrace of a boutique hotel
Included accomodations
  • 28 nights in superior holiday houses, cottages, bed & breakfasts
  • Delightful rooms with an ensuite and a nice view
  • Includes most breakfasts and some dinners
Included car
  • Rental for a medium SUV for 29 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
Sleep between the vines in Hawkes Bay
Friendly Kiwi hospitality at our accommodations | New Zealand holiday
Included accomodations
  • 28 nights staying at exclusive villas, holiday houses, lodges
  • Spacious suites with an eye for luxury and design
  • Includes all breakfasts and several dinners
Included car
  • Rental for a medium SUV for 29 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
A brown chalet with a mountain in the background
Outdoor fireplace | New Zealand holidays
Add flight
Explore the history, architecture and culture of Hong Kong during your stopover
Select car
Add activities
Price guide per person
Price per adult
Accommodation
and car change
0
Your flight change
0
Your car up- or downgrade change
0
Your activities change
0
Total price per adult
0
Price for all travellers
Adults 18+
0
Youth 12-17 yrs
0
Children 2-11 yrs
0
Infants 0-1 yr
0
Price indication for 1 traveller(s)
0

During shoulder season you can enjoy significant price savings. Talk to a specialist now on 020 36 95 95 69

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.

  • Detailed information
  • Inspirational
  • No obligations
  • Be well prepared
Step 1
Your journey
Detailed guide for
4 weeks of the South Island
Travellers
None
Accommodation and car
None
Flight
None chosen
Selected car
None
Activities
None
Change
Preferred time of year
Remarks
Step 2
Contact options
Contact person

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Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?

Discover a world beyond ordinary

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.

Call us 020 36 95 95 69 Request information Join a presentation