12 days tour

Auckland To Christchurch 12 Day Highlights

Auckland To Christchurch 12 Day Highlights

This tour includes:

Meals

Daily Breakfast

Accommodation

11 nights 3 star style accommodation. This accommodation can be upgraded - contact us for more information.

Transport

Interislander ferry Wellington to Picton Train 11 days car rental - - Kia Cerato or similar PREMIUM (driver must be 21 years old) The minimum age to rent and drive a vehicle is 21. Please note there is an additional surcharge of $28.75 (including GST) for drivers aged from 21 to 24 years inclusive. The cost of this is payable directly to Europcar upon collection On collection you will require a credit card to collect your vehicle. Note debit or pre-loaded travel type credit cards may not be accepted. Europcar also require a bond of up to NZ$350 in the form of a credit card imprint. This is only authorized and not debited to your card. This is fully refundable should no extra charges be incurred during your rental period. A full tank of fuel is provided on collection of the vehicle. Please return the car with a full tank to avoid any additional refuelling charges. Any number of drivers can be listed at no additional charge. All drivers must have a valid driving licence printed in English or a valid international licence. When you collect your rental car please ensure you are familiar with and understand the terms and conditions of renting a car.

Others

Airport transfer Train A superb range of rental cars to choose from Rental car insurance with full coverage (variable excess/deductible) Unlimited kilometres, GPS navigation, airport and ferry fees.

Not included:

Others

Other activities and services not included, talk to us about booking activities before you go. Fuel. Claims administration fee between $50 for single vehicle accidents to $200 for third party accidents. insurance cover for reasonable damage to the front windscreen, headlights and tyre punctures.

Guide

Guide is not included except for on some individual activities

Optional

Other activities and services not included

Insurance

Travel insurance is not included. Car insurance is included.

Flights

International flights are not included

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Auckland To Christchurch 12 Day Highlights

  • Day 1 Day 1: Welcome To Auckland The โ€™City Of Sailsโ€™
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 1: Welcome To Auckland The โ€™City Of Sailsโ€™

       Private Transfer Auckland Airport to Auckland Accommodation


      You will be met at the Auckland airport by the driver and transferred to your Auckland accommodation.

      Welcome to Auckland


      Auckland, New Zealandโ€™s self-proclaimed "City of Sails" is the countryโ€™s largest metro area. Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this urban paradise has something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the central museums and galleries on foot, or take a drive through one of over 800 regional National Parks to see deserted beaches, waterfalls and native forest.


      SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Harbour Dinner Cruise with Explore


      This unique on-water dining experience is not to be missed while youโ€™re in Auckland. Enjoy smooth sailing on the Waitemata Harbour - then watch this photogenic city come alive with twinkling lights. Enjoy your meal as you sail around the beautiful Auckland Harbour taking in the view as the sun slowly sets. Youโ€™ll be treated to canapes and a drink as you set off towards Westhaven Marina. Choose between dining in the downstairs cabin or on deck to take in the iconic sights of the Auckland Harbour. To finish the evening off, savour your dessert course as you leisurely sail back to Aucklandโ€™s vibrant Viaduct Harbour.


  • Day 2 Day 2: Drive South Through Waikato Farmland And Maybe Stop At Hobbiton Village On Your Way To Rotorua
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 2: Drive South Through Waikato Farmland And Maybe Stop At Hobbiton Village On Your Way To Rotorua

      Collect your rental car

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      This tour can be priced with any of the rental cars available in our fantastic range, from economy hatchbacks to prestige saloons and SUVโ€™s.

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      Auckland to Rotorua

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      The drive south from Auckland takes you past the Bombay Hills and into the rolling farmland and rich dairy pastures of the Waikato. The Bombay Hills mark the outer boundary of greater Auckland area and itโ€™s here you turn inland to central Waikato. Youโ€™ll soon go through the town of Matamata where you can visit the fully intact Hobbiton film set used in the shooting of the Lord of The Rings and Hobbit trilogies. Continuing on, youโ€™ll pass several small farming communities before telltale signs of steam and other geothermal activity signal your arrival into Rotorua.

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      SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Hobbiton Movie Set tour from Shires Rest

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      Become immersed in the The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit films when you visit the actual Hobbiton movie set. Located just outside of Matamata in the heart of the lush Waikato farming region, your tour will begin with a drive through a picturesque sheep farm. Youโ€™ll then be taken through Hobbit Holes, the Green Dragon Inn, the Mill and the Party Tree while your guide shares behind-the-scenes tales and insight into the making of the films.

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      Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 220 kms / 136 miles : 2.6 hours

  • Day 3 Day 3: Your Day In Rotorua Could Be Spent Discovering Maori Culture Or Thrilling Adventure Rides
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 3: Your Day In Rotorua Could Be Spent Discovering Maori Culture Or Thrilling Adventure Rides

      Explore Rotorua


      Peppered with natural hot springs, boiling mud pools and steaming geysers, Rotorua sits within one of the worlds most active volcanic regions. Geothermal landmarks aside, this city of sulphur has a rich indigenous history. Home to several prominent Maori tribes, a visit to one of the Maori Villages should be high on your agenda, as should an excursion to the Polynesian Spa for an invigorating soak in its natural mineral hot springs.


      Spike your adrenaline at Velocity Valley Adventure Park on stomach-dropping attractions such as static skydiving, or a giant swing reaching 130 km per hour. Alternatively, head up the Rotorua Gondola for soaring lake views, and ride the luge at night for an extra thrill.


      Fans of Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit should drive to nearby Matamata and experience the actual movie set โ€˜Hobbitonโ€™. Make the most of your time in Rotorua with an excursion through the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, one of the areaโ€™s most colourful volcanic attractions.


      SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - National Kiwi Hatchery Tour


      The National Kiwi Hatchery Tour is a special opportunity to gain insight into and view this highly regarded conservation centre. Developed with the visitor experience in mind, the hatchery boasts special viewing opportunities and is hosted by kiwi expert guides who ensure guests leave fully informed and all questions answered. Learn all about New Zealandโ€™s intriguing national icon and the efforts of the kiwi husbandry team, see and discover what it takes to hatch and rare chicks, and if youโ€™re lucky see baby chicks in person!


      SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Velocity Valley Two Adventure Package


      Choose the adventure that suits you best from a thrilling range of rides to create an absolute day of awesome fun!  Choose 2 activity from the "Shweeb", "Swoop", "Agrojet" or "Freefall Xtreme". The "Agrojet" will launch you from 0 to 100 kph in the blink of an eye as a 450 horse powered V8 engine takes you on a full throttle ride. The "Freefall Xtreme" seeโ€™s you don a flight suit and enter a wind tunnel to recreate free-falling from a plane.  "Swoop" will see you reach a max speed of 130 kmph as you release the rip cord and plummet to 40 metres to earth. Lastly, the unique "Shweeb" is pedal power fun as you race around an inverse track in your own personal pod! Your choice will make for an adventure to remember.


      SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Rotorua Canopy Tours: The Original Canopy Tour


      Embark on a three hour adventure through native New Zealand forest. Journey through the beautiful forest canopy via an incredible network of trails, tree platforms, Ziplines and swing bridges. See breathtaking views of the woodland valleys and hills as you fly through tight openings in the trees. In between the thrill of the ziplines and suspended tree bridges, your guides will share their passion and knowledge for the forest and the conservation challenges to preserve it. 


      SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Te Pฤ Tลซ Evening Maori Cultural Experience


      New Zealandโ€™s Most Awarded Cultural Attraction, Tamaki Mฤori Village presents TE Pฤ€ Tลช. Feast on song, drama, tradition, and divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within the forest Pฤ (village) blanketed by towering Tawa trees, blazing bonfires, and a forest-formed amphitheatre. Te Pฤ Tลซ shares Mฤori history, traditions, and cultural aspirations across 4-hours of celebration and feasting. These events change with each season of the maramataka, the Mฤori lunar calendar. 

  • Day 4 Day 4: Today Is Filled With Fantastic Scenery Including Lake Taupo, The Desert Road And The Kapiti Coastline As You Approach Wellington
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 4: Today Is Filled With Fantastic Scenery Including Lake Taupo, The Desert Road And The Kapiti Coastline As You Approach Wellington

       Rotorua to Wellington


      The drive from Rotorua to Wellington takes you via the township of Taupo home to New Zealandโ€™s largest lake. Following the lakeshore South youโ€™ll pass Turani and then ascend the central plateau onto the high country Rangipo Desert. Skirting the edge of Tongariro National Park, youโ€™ll reach the military town of Waiouru before descending through rich farmland and the rural towns of Taihape And Mangaweka. Follow the coast through Paraparaumu, Paekakariki and Plimmerton to arrive at your destination, Wellington.


      SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Zealandia By Night Wildlife Sanctuary Tour


      Taking a night tour of Zealandia wildlife eco-sanctuary is an unforgettable experience and one that comes highly recommended. A conservation success and safe haven for some of New Zealandโ€™s rarest native animals, Zealandia is home to many remarkable species of birds, reptiles and insects living wild within a beautiful 225 hectare (one square mile) valley, just 10 minutes from the central city.


      Your tour begins with an interactive exhibition before you walk through the gates of Zealandia predator-exclusion fence into the sanctuary. Your guide will then lead you on a torch-light walk through the native New Zealand bush. Possible sights include Kiwi foraging on the forest floor, tuatara hunting for food, glowworms shining, tiny Maud Island frogs in their enclosure, pateke (brown teal) ducks feeding at night and kaka (parrots) coming in to roost. Zealandia is one of the best places to see kiwi in the wild. Over 100 of these nocturnal birds live freely in their natural environment inside the safety of the sanctuary valley, so your chances of seeing one are high!


      Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 441 kms / 273 miles : 5.3 hours


  • Day 5 Day 5: Today Youโ€™Ll Cross The Cook Strait On The Interislander Ferry. Approaching Picton Youโ€™Ll Cruise Through The Spectacular Marlborough Sounds
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 5: Today Youโ€™Ll Cross The Cook Strait On The Interislander Ferry. Approaching Picton Youโ€™Ll Cruise Through The Spectacular Marlborough Sounds

      Interislander Ferry Wellington to Picton


      The 92 km journey between Wellington and Picton takes around 3 hours and has been described as โ€™one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the worldโ€™. Leaving Wellington Harbour you pass many interesting points such as Pencarrow Head on top of which is New Zealandโ€™s oldest lighthouse (1859). Red Rocks is home to a seal colony and Oterangi Bay is the site which recorded the countryโ€™s highest ever wind speed of 268 kph (167 mph).


      From the Cook Strait spectacular views of the Kaikoura Ranges on the South Island can be enjoyed and dolphins and many sea birds are often seen. Around one hour of the cruise takes you through the Marlborough Sounds and this region of bush covered mountains, small islands, crystal clear waters and secluded bays offer remarkable photographic opportunities. The final leg of your cruise travels through Queen Charlotte Sound before coming to an end in the picturesque town of Picton.


      Collect your rental car in Picton terminal

  • Day 6 Day 6: Drive On The Pacific Coast Highway To Christchurch Today
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 6: Drive On The Pacific Coast Highway To Christchurch Today

       Picton to Christchurch


      From Picton you cross the dry hills of the Marlborough ranges as you head towards one of the most spectacular coastlines of the South Island, the Kaikoura Coast. The road hugs the shore for around 50 kilometres and offers many chances to view native wildlife such as seabirds and New Zealand fur seals. To the east is the turquoise waters of the South Pacific Ocean and to the west the towering Kaikoura Ranges. Kaikoura Township is a bustling place with many cafes, restaurants and shops, but the main reason for visiting here is the wildlife. Whale Watch Kaikoura is New Zealandโ€™s only marine-based whale watching company offering visitors an exciting up-close encounter with the Giant Sperm Whale at all times of the year. Depending on the season you may also see migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales and Southern Right Whales.


      The drive from Kaikoura to Christchurch continues to follow the spectacular coastline before heading inland and through North Canterburyโ€™s major wine region, the Waipara Valley to arrive into Christchurch City.


      SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - International Antarctic Centre General Admission


      The International Antarctic Centre aims to recreate the atmosphere and environment of Antarctica, providing visitors with an interactive, fun and educational experience. Feel the full Four Seasons of Antarctica, where youโ€™ll experience a custom-built snow and ice experience, then warm up in the Scott Base interior exhibit, a replica Antarctic field camp or other informative displays in the gallery. Youโ€™ll also learn about life in modern day Antarctica, view real little blue penguins and experience a thrilling ride in a Hagglund all terrain vehicle.


      SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Christchurch Gondola


      In the Heathcote Valley, just fifteen minutes from the heart of Christchurch City, ride the Christchurch Gondola for nearly a kilometre to the collapsed rim of an extinct volcano, which exploded six million years ago. Take in the panoramic 360-degree views of the central city, Lyttelton Harbour, Banks Peninsula, Canterbury Plains and the distant peaks of the Southern Alps. Wander the summit complex and choose one of many nature walks or visit the Time Tunnel, a dramatic reconstruction of the history of the Port Hills and Christchurch.


      Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 326 kms / 202 miles : 4.0 hours

  • Day 7 Day 7: Today Youโ€™Ll Enjoy A Scenic Drive Through Canterbury And The Mackenzie Country
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 7: Today Youโ€™Ll Enjoy A Scenic Drive Through Canterbury And The Mackenzie Country

      Christchurch to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park


      Today youโ€™ll drive through the heart of the South Island, crossing the vast Canterbury plains. Catch your breath in Geraldine before continuing through Fairlie. Ascending Burkes pass youโ€™ll come to the picturesque lakeside town of Tekapo.


      Follow the road and take in the view of Aoraki Mount Cook (New Zealandโ€™s tallest mountain) from the shores of Lake Pukaki, known for its glacier fed turquoise blue colour. Continue along the lake to your final destination Mount Cook Village.


      Please note: There are no food shops at Mount Cook, and dinner options are limited to one restaurant. If you wish to self-cater, you must stock up before arriving in Mount Cook, or make dinner reservations in advance.


      SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Glacier Explorers Mt. Cook


      Experience 500 year old icebergs up-close on the Mt Cook terminal lake. The Glacier Explorers tour is the only one of its kind in New Zealand and one of only three in the world! Very few glaciers terminate into lakes and even fewer of them are accessible. See towering ice cliffs and floating icebergs from the safety of a specially designed boat. These boats provide a safe way to view unseen and inaccessible areas of New Zealandโ€™s largest glacier The Tasman.


      Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 350 kms / 217 miles : 4.1 hours

  • Day 8 Day 8: Follow The Dry Lands To Lindis Pass Which Leads Into Central Otago, Then Through The Kawerau Gorge To Queenstown
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 8: Follow The Dry Lands To Lindis Pass Which Leads Into Central Otago, Then Through The Kawerau Gorge To Queenstown

      Aoraki Mount Cook National Park to Queenstown


      Today youโ€™ll leave Mount Cook National park and travel to Queenstown. Go through the lakeside town of Twizel and then pass through the gliding capital of New Zealand Omarama, before ascending the Lindis Pass. Follow the road to Cromwell, located at the at the head of the Kawarau Gorge. Continue on towards the Gibbston Valley, one of New Zealandโ€™s premier wine growing regions. See the historic Kawarau Bridge where you can bungy jump, or relax and watch others take the plunge. Approaching Queenstown, the Remarkables mountain range comes into view as you arrive into the adventure capital of New Zealand.


      Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 257 kms / 159 miles : 3.0 hours

  • Day 9 Day 9: The Day Is Yours To Discover All The Scenic Spots And Fun Activities On Offer In Queenstown
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 9: The Day Is Yours To Discover All The Scenic Spots And Fun Activities On Offer In Queenstown

      Explore Queenstown and surrounds


      Although celebrated as New Zealandโ€™s โ€˜adventure capitalโ€™ Queenstown offers far more than a fast-paced action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic and scenic wonders.


      Head down the Gibbston Valley wine trail to sample some of the regionโ€™s best Pinot or catch a ride on the 100 year old Steamship the TSS Earnslaw, to Walter Peak Station for dinner and a farm tour. Browse the waterfront cafes and have lunch at Michelin star chef Josh Emettโ€™s โ€˜Rata.โ€™ Check out nearby historic Arrowtown and enhance your experience with a four wheel drive trip to Macetown.


      Take a leisurely lakeside stroll or ride the gondola for breathtaking views. Drive through Lord Of The Rings country or for the really fanatic, jump aboard one of many dedicated LOTR tours. If you do really want the adrenaline rush Queenstown is known for, take your pick from the Shotover Jet, Bungy, Canyon Swing, Zipline, Luge or Heli-ski.


      Finally, if youโ€™re lucky enough to visit in winter (July-September) there are four ski resorts close by. You can head up to Coronet Peak and the Remarkables close to Queenstown, or head to Wanaka for Cardrona and Treble Cone.


      SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Jet Boat the Shotover River


      Take a ride on โ€˜Big Redโ€™ through the spectacular canyon walls of the upper Shotover River.  Shotover Jet Boat is the only company allowed to operate in this remarkable location and their skilled drivers will take you on a wet and wild ride youโ€™ll never forget.


      SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Skyline Gondola Queenstown and 3 Luge Rides


      In the heart of Queenstown, located 450 metres above town in the Ben Lomond Scenic Reserve is the Skyline Complex. A gondola ride to the summit makes for awe-inspiring views of the city surround. Arrive at the complex and wander the outside viewing decks for a picture perfect outlook. Then onto the Luge! The 800 metre luge track offers an exhilarating journey through banked corners, tunnels and dippers.


      SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - TSS Earnslaw cruise to Walter Peak including gourmet BBQ dinner and a farm tour


      Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience, a delicious gourmet BBQ buffet meal and a farm demonstration in a stunning lakeside setting. Take in the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and its surroundings as you cruise across the lake to the historic Walter Peak high country farm aboard the TSS Earnslaw Steamship.


      Enjoy the ambience of the heart of the stately homestead while your Colonelโ€™s Homestead Restaurant chef prepares a gourmet BBQ dinner. Your seasonal menu includes an extensive selection of local New Zealand produce, including succulent meats and a selection of delicious vegetables and salads. Complete your meal with your choice of delicious desserts, New Zealand cheeses, tea and coffee.


      After dinner, watch the farm dogs in action with a sheep-herding demonstration and say hello to the other farm animals. Finally, cruise home under the southern stars and enjoy the fresh night air as the lights of Queenstown draw ever closer.

  • Day 10 Day 10: Take The Crown Range Road To Wanaka Before Travelling The Spectacular Haast Pass To The West Coast
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 10: Take The Crown Range Road To Wanaka Before Travelling The Spectacular Haast Pass To The West Coast

      Queenstown to Fox Glacier


      Crossing the Crown Range the highest sealed road in the country, youโ€™ll pass through the alpine town of Wanaka. Following the shores of both Lake Wanaka and Hawea, youโ€™ll enter the township of Makarora, gateway to Mt. Aspiring National Park.  Stretch your legs on a walk to Blue Pools, a ten minute stroll through lush rainforest. Marvel at the native beech and countless waterfalls as you continue toward the West Coast.


      Crossing the Haast River you are now truly in the wild west, a 600 kilometre stretch of bush, rainforest and podocarp forest. Continue on to arrive in Fox Glacier, your destination for the night. Home to the largest glacier on the west coast, Fox is 13 kilometres long and ends in rainforest only 250 metres above sea level.


      SUGGESTED ACTIVITY - Twin Glacier Scenic Helicopter Flight with The Helicopter Line


      Explore the glacial icefalls of not one but two glaciers - Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier. Discover up close their neve and unusual ice formations - landing on the snowfields is a highlight and will make for superb photos, snowballs and memories. A 30 minute flight with snow landing. Should weather not be suitable to take this flight you are able to transfer your booking onto a similar tour on any of the Helicopter Lineโ€™s operations in Queenstown or Mt Cook.


      Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 321 kms / 199 miles : 4.0 hours

  • Day 11 Day 11: Drive North Along The Stunning West Coast Road And Take The Tranzalpine Train To Christchurch
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 11: Drive North Along The Stunning West Coast Road And Take The Tranzalpine Train To Christchurch

      Fox Glacier to Greymouth Train Station


      The drive north from Fox and Franz Josef takes you through the historic gold mining region of Ross and the town of Hokitika, a great place to explore the craft stores, in particular the jade or greenstone. The largest town on the West Coast, Greymouth is also the starting point for the TranzAlpine Scenic Train.  Drop your rental car at the Greymouth Train Station depot located inside the train station building.


      TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch


      Crossing the south from Greymouth to Christchurch, the TranzAlpine is considered one of the worlds greatest train journeys. Youโ€™ll travel from east to the west of the south island through Arthurโ€™s Pass National Park.


      From the comfort of your carriage see lush beech forest, deep river valleys and the spectacular peaks of the Southern Alps. Descend to the windswept Canterbury Plains before arriving in the city of Christchurch.


      Private Transfer Christchurch Train Station to your accommodation


      On arrival at the Christchurch train station, you will be met by a private driver and transferred to your accommodation.


      Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 197 kms / 122 miles : 2.5 hours

  • Day 12 Day 12: Depart Christchurch Today
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 12: Depart Christchurch Today

       Private transfer accommodation to Christchurch Airport


      A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to Christchurch Airport in time for your departing flight.


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Experience Style

Experience Style

Mixed

There will be challenging activities such as hiking, biking, canyoning and trekking, but youโ€™re also going to have other means of transportation and relaxed moments to just chill.

Accomodation level

Accomodation level

Medium

This accommodation includes essential services like a hot shower, electricity, and a nice and comfy bed.

Experience Type

Experience Type

Small Group

Youโ€™ll be accompanied by a small group of travelers just like you.

Physical Rating

Physical Rating

Basic

Almost everyone is fit for these activities. Every hike or physical exercise last less than 30 minutes, such as paragliding and horseback riding. Please ask about specific conditions.

Age range

Age range

Min: 2 / Max: 99

Age range allowed for this experience.

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