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Sample itineraries

3 weeks of the South Island

Route and Impressions
Price guide per person
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Would you love to visit some of the South Island's highlights at a relaxed pace? During this journey, you will see vibrant and buzzing cities, wineries, alluring nature, golden beaches and an array of unique nature. Taste the food, soak up the culture, meet the locals and discover the hidden gems. A trip that allows you to experience New Zealand in an authentic way.

Quick facts about this sample itinerary

This itinerary will be customised to suit your individual wishes
Best travel time is February - April and October - December
Relaxed travel pace with 2-3 nights at each location
The average drive between each accommodation is 2-4 hours
Stay with locals at 9 locations, away from the crowds
Choose from a diverse mix of small-group activities with locals
Collect and return your rental car 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

Canterbury is the largest region of New Zealand with diverse landscapes

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

Cycle through New Zealand's spectacular landscapes

Travel at a relaxed pace and find the hidden gems of the West Coast Route

Discover the crystal waters of Abel Tasman

The best way to explore Christchurch is on foot

Canterbury

2 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.

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.

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.

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.

Franz Josef & Fox

2 nights

Originating from the Southern Alps and descending to sea level, both glaciers flow around ten times faster than most valley glaciers. Get a birds-eye view on a scenic helicopter flight.

Punakaiki

2 nights

Punakaiki lies at the edge of the Paparoa National Park, the home of the famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Wander through native forest to the rugged coastline and gaze at the unique limestone formations.

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.

Kaikoura

3 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.

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

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.