The Road Less Travelled Itinerary

Welcome to Auckland, situated amongst a cluster of extinct volcanic cones, next to a large harbour that bustles with life, both on water and on land. The Auckland isthmus straddles a slim piece of land with coastline facing both the Pacific Ocean, and, on the wild West Coast, the Tasman Sea.

On arrival you will be transferred to your hotel. After checking into your hotel, relax, take a stroll around our beautiful city, explore the highly acclaimed Waterfront Restaurant Quarter or choose one of the many activities available for a more in-depth understanding of Auckland and the surrounding area.

Some activities and sightseeing options if you have time:

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

Collect your car this morning and as you depart early from Auckland and drive north to the Bay of Islands - a unique marine wonderland. A stunning Maritime Park, with 144 islands, this sub-tropical region is a paradise of endless secluded bays and abundant marine life.

This afternoon, after arriving in the waterfront town of Paihia, visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds with an experience pass included in your travel plans.

Approximate Distance: 230 kms | 143 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Paihia - 3 Nights

Today, drive up to the very top of New Zealand, enjoying the views of New Zealand's varying and beautiful landscape. On the way, stop by Puketi Kauri Forest to meet majestic giant Kauri trees over a thousand years old.

At the tip of the country, Cape Reinga is where the Pacific Ocean and Tasman sea meet and crash together - it's quite a sight. There's a lovely old lighthouse and many coastal walks to try too.

Return to the Bay of Islands in the evening after an unforgettable journey - grab freshly caught fish and chips by the waterfront to round off your day.

Experience the stunning Bay of Islands your way – today is a whole day of leisure to explore this coastal paradise. Lovers of marine wildlife will be in heaven: penguins, dolphins, marlin, whales, gannets and more flock here in droves. Many islands have walking tracks and regular ferry services.

The historic town of Russell, New Zealand's first capital, is only 15 minutes away by ferry. This gorgeous township was once known as "The Hell Hole of the Pacific" and famed for its lawlessness!

Around Paihia, you can enjoy beautiful river and seaside walks or visit more mighty Kauri trees in the pristine rainforests.

Excursions available in the Bay of Islands:

Head back to the 'City of Sails' for another opportunity to explore the many sights of Auckland. Afterwards, we suggest you head down to the Viaduct's many bars and restaurants for dinner and drinks. Relax and unwind while the harbour lights glisten and illuminate the waterfront views before you.

Some Activities and sightseeing options if you have time:

Approximate Distance: 230 kms | 143 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Auckland - 1 Night

Leaving Auckland behind, it's time to journey into the heart of the Central North Island.

Today you will visit an idyllic village - welcome to the emerald pastures of Hobbiton, the Lord of the Rings film set brought to life on a private farm in Matamata. With its gorgeously crafted wooden hobbit houses under the lush green hills, it's a fantastic place to visit even if you haven’t seen the movie.

Your journey then continues to the geothermal wonderland of Rotorua. After settling in, take a Gondola (cable car) up to the Skyline Restaurant for a unique dining experience, with mouth-watering dishes and panoramic views!

Approximate Distance: 240 kms | 149 miles  Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Rotorua - 2 Nights

The day is yours to enjoy Rotorua however you desire...

You could marvel at the alien landscapes in a geothermal park, visit a Sheep Show, see endangered Kiwi at a Nature Park, soak in a thermal spa, or take a scenic flight over Lake Rotorua.

In the evening you will experience the wonderful hospitality of New Zealand Maori at a Cultural Evening and Feast. Enjoy a banquet of foods cooked the traditional Maori way - on hot stones in an underground oven (a Hangi). Learn about Maori culture and spirituality through joyous song and dance performances. Seeing the Haka demonstrated right in front of you is unforgettable

Recommended excursions in and around Rotorua:

Todays destination, New Plymouth, lies on the west coast of the North Island. Surfers flock to the region's black sand beaches - some of the best surfing spots in the country. The perfectly cone-shaped Mount Taranaki in nearby Egmont National Park offers one of New Zealand's most famous day hikes for experienced walkers, and dozens of lush short forest walks for the rest of us.

Often missed by travellers with less time, the region is a lesser-known gem. With two nights here, there's plenty of time to explore.

Approximate Distance: 300 kms | 1836miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours

Accommodation: New Plymouth - 2 Nights

If you love the arts or the great outdoors, you'll enjoy checking out New Plymouth today. The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery is New Zealand's finest museum of contemporary art, and right next door, the shimmering facade of the Len Lye Centre is one of the most iconic pieces of architecture in the country.

The 11km New Plymouth Coastal Walkway takes you from city to sea, with coast and mountain views galore. If you prefer to leave the city behind entirely, drive out of town to bask on the rugged black sand beaches as the powerful waves crash against the coast.

Heading south to Wellington, rivers and valleys dominate the landscape, including the masterful Mangaweka Gorge. The last part of the journey hugs a rugged coastline with scenic views out to Kapiti Island.

Wellington's vibe is creative and eclectic - the nation's top politicians rub shoulders with street performers in this lively cafe culture. Renowned for its arty atmosphere, Wellington is a real Kiwi treat, with its numerous galleries and character-filled shops.

Wellington is also famous for having some of New Zealand's best restaurants - gourmet dining experiences here are truly world class.

Approximate Distance: 355 kms | 221 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Wellington - 2 Nights

A magnificent landscape of steep-sided hills sits beside a beautiful harbour, and Wellington city itself bustles with a vibrant creative culture. Renowned for its eclectic, arty atmosphere, Wellington is a real treat. Kiwi culture, cuisine and scenic beauty abound in New Zealand’s iconic capital.

The Museum of New Zealand 'Te Papa' is full of national treasures and sits beside the water in the downtown area of the city centre - well worth a visit.
 

Some suggestions to enhance your stay in Wellington:

The morning ferry from Wellington to Picton is a great start to the day. It takes three hours to cross the Cook Strait on the Ferry, and as the South Island approaches you are greeted by a jaw-dropping sight: the fiords of Queen Charlotte Sound. You're treated to amazing views on every side as the ferry glides through the calm waters approaching your destination.

Take a stroll around picturesque Picton Harbour before hitting the road once more for Nelson, the sunshine capital of New Zealand. You'll spend three nights here, so you won't miss a thing.

Approximate Distance: 140 kms | 87 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours

Accommodation: Nelson - 3 Nights

Nelson is a creative town with many galleries and artisan stores. The jeweller who created the One Ring for the Lord of the Rings movies is based here, and you can even buy your own identical replica.

At the edge of town you can climb Botanical Hill to reach the geographical centre of New Zealand. It's also a great lookout point. Recover your energy with one of Nelson's outstanding craft beers at a local brewery.

Or if you'd like to keep the adventure level up, book a tour for canyoning, jetboating, skydiving or quad biking. One of the most popular options is a sea kayaking tour in nearby Abel Tasman National Park.

Whether you're craving adventure or looking to unwind, Abel Tasman has a wealth of options.

Start your day with an invigorating self-guided walk along the National Park coastal trail between Marahau and Anchorage. Enjoy the lush native forest and golden beaches before emerging to a view of the beautiful Anchorage Bay.

Then let nature do the work, catching the sea breeze and sail back through the best of the Abel Tasman coastline via secluded beaches, bays and estuaries to the resort community of Kaiteriteri. 

Approximate Distance each way: 65 kms | 40 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour (each way)

Make your way down the Wild West Coast to Hokitika today. In the 1870s Hokitika was a thriving gold rush town but it's now better known for the ‘Wild Food Festival’ held here every year in March.

The town is home to many artisan carvers of the local pounamu (greenstone), which is sacred to Maori. A unique, locally carved greenstone pendant would be a special way to remember your trip.

Tonight we stay in a lodge that showcases the magnificent sunset view over the Tasman Sea. Treat yourself to a local favourite - fish and chips on the beach - or try one of the many cafes in this seaside town.

Approximate Distance: 320 kms | 199 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Hokitika - 1 Night

Continue your journey today to Franz Josef – and here, you’re in for a real treat. Nestled in a rainforest clearing, Franz Josef Glacier Village lies at the heart of the Westland National Park. Welcome to one of the most diverse and beautiful areas of New Zealand.

The magnificent Franz Josef Glacier is widely regarded as the gem of New Zealand’s West Coast glaciers. It tumbles down from the Southern Alps almost to the sea, its ancient icy faces contrasting spectacularly with the surrounding rainforests. Take the opportunity to experience the most spectacular glacier environment anywhere in the world.

Approximate Distance: 135 kms | 84 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour 45 mins

Accommodation: Franz Josef - 1 Night

The drive from Franz Josef to Wanaka is one of the most scenic in New Zealand, as the windswept West Coast gives way to ancient forests and mountain passes.

Behind the Gates of Haast is a lost world so spectacular and remote that UNESCO designated it a World Heritage area. There's beauty around every bend, with woodland walks and dramatic waterfalls along the way - perfect for picnic stops.

After this breathtaking drive you will arrive in the lakeside town of Wanaka, where you will stay for the next two nights.

Approximate Distance: 285 kms | 177 miles  Total Driving Time: 4 hours

Accommodation: Wanaka - 2 Nights

Lake Wanaka Cruise & Island Wildlife Walk

Today you'll tour the isle of Mou Waho, one of only five islands to be found in the vastness of Lake Wanaka.

Accessible only by a 35 minute boat cruise, Mou Waho is an island nature reserve with a difference. With no predators or pests roaming here, New Zealand's rare & endangered species can live in peace, giving you the opportunity to observe them up close.

Walking with a long-time local guide, the well-formed track leads you through the native bush to Tyrwhitt Peak. Here you will find Arethusa Pool, a beautiful miniature lake with small islands within it. Impress your friends by telling them you have visited an island in a lake, inside an island in a lake, inside an island in the ocean!

From Tyrwhitt Peak you'll be spellbound by the 360-degree views of Lake Wanaka surrounding you, and the mountains beyond.

Don't forget your swimwear: on a hot day it's hard to resist a swim in Mou Waho's cool clear waters.
 

The short drive from Wanaka to Queenstown is stunning, leading you over the rugged Crown Range on the highest main road in the country. Take your time and enjoy the scenic lookouts en route - your camera will get a workout.

Often called the "Jewel of the South", Queenstown overlooks Lake Wakatipu and the towering Southern Alps. Enjoy some free time this afternoon to get yourselves acquainted.

The area's wild rivers, high peaks and deep canyons play host to an exciting range of outdoor adventure activities. But if you prefer to chill out downtown, you can count on stylish designer shops and waterfront eateries offering a kaleidoscope of dining experiences.

Approximate Distance: 70 kms | 43 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Queenstown - 4 Nights

A full day for you to enjoy Queenstown and its surrounds.

Adrenalin junkies, we can arrange virtually any activity you can think of from a bungy jump into Kawarau Gorge, a swing across Shotover Canyon, or a skydive into Paradise.

For a more peaceful day, there are beautiful drives in the local area. Head to historic Arrowtown for quaint streetscapes and leafy views. Or drive to Glenorchy for a horseback ride through Lord of The Rings country. You could explore local wineries, cheese-eries and orchards by car or by bike.

Like the landscape the options are endless: chat to our travel specialists for more great suggestions for your perfect Queenstown day.

Recommended Queenstown excursions:

Discover Queenstown from an exhilarating angle on a jet boat trip along the Shotover River. Your expert driver will have you speeding through narrow canyons, whizzing around crags and boulders and getting your heart pumping on the white water ride of your life!

If you want to enjoy spectacular scenic views, you can sit back and relax in the Skyline Queenstown Gondola. The steepest cable car lift in the Southern Hemisphere will whisk you away to Bob's Peak for birds-eye views over the lake. You can hike back down to town, or tackle one of the many beautiful walks from the top.

Discover Queenstown’s surrounding landscapes on an old-fashioned steamship cruise across the azure waters of Lake Wakatipu.The vintage TSS Earnslaw is the oldest passenger steamship still in operation in the Southern Hemisphere. It's a charming way to view the lake and its grand surroundings, or to visit the farm animals of Walter Peak Station across the water.

There is a licensed café onboard but why not opt for one of the lunch or dinner cruises out to Walter Peak Farm? This historic old homestead on the far side of the lake will transport you back in time and is a fun day out for everyone.

Say farewell to Queenstown and journey to the peaceful lakeside township of Te Anau today. It's another area of outstanding natural beauty, and several key Lord of The Rings movie scenes were filmed amid the unspoilt forests and lakes of this region.

Some of the most famous New Zealand Great Walks trails begin nearby, such as the Milford, Routeburn and Kepler Tracks. Immerse yourselves in the gorgeous surroundings: flight-seeing, fly fishing, kayaking, sailing and horse riding are all on offer and are great ways to get up close to nature.

Approximate Distance: 175 kms | 109 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Te Anau - 2 Nights

No visit to New Zealand is complete without a pilgrimage to the "Eighth Natural Wonder of the World": Milford Sound.

Arriving in Milford, you will board your purpose-built cruise vessel and sail the length of the Sound. Marvel at the gigantic waterfalls and towering rock walls all around you. Dolphins, penguins and seals regularly visit Milford Sound, so keep your eyes peeled!

Returning to Te Anau, why not visit one of the town's major draw-cards - the Te Anau Glowworm Caves. After an informative boat trip across Lake Te Anau, your friendly guides will accompany you underground. As darkness descends, discover a glowworm galaxy as stunning as any Southern night sky.
 

Approximate Distance each way: 118 kms | 73 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hours 40 mins

Today head down to the town of Bluff to catch a scenic ferry to the southernmost part of New Zealand: Stewart Island.

It seems almost a cliché to call it one of New Zealand's best-kept secrets. With few travellers aware of its unspoiled tranquillity, it probably deserves this label more than anywhere in the country.

Only 1% of the island is inhabited - the rest belongs to natural native bush, exquisite white-sand beaches, bird sanctuaries, and rugged mountains. After only a few hours in this remote paradise the rest of the world melts away, and you'll quickly find yourself adopting the laid-back demeanour of the locals.

Approximate Distance: 180 kms | 112 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Stewart Island - 2 Nights

Stewart Island's wildlife and rare plant life is some of New Zealand's best.

Few predators venture to the island so the lush forests are a haven for bird-life. Kaka, parakeets, tui, and bellbirds give a wonderful dawn chorus performance each spring. New Zealand's national bird, the kiwi is found all around the Island.

Even from the (very few) roads, you may spot seals, penguins and dolphins going about their day. Kiwi spotting is very popular here and to see them up close, you can take a guided twilight boat tour to one of the island's remote beaches to watch them dig up some juicy worms for dinner.

Take to the seas once more for your return ferry to Bluff. Once back on the mainland, it's time to check out New Zealand's southernmost city of Invercargill.

With its heritage wharf and Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco architecture, there's lots to do and see. Perhaps take a tour of the Invercargill Brewery to quench your thirst, taste some local cheeses at the dairy, or even try your hand at chocolate making.

Transport buffs will love the vintage truck and classic motorbike collections at Transport World. If you prefer to stay close to nature, have a wander around the Waituna Wetlands or relax on a local beach.

Approximate Distance: 25 kms | 15 miles  Total Driving Time: 30 mins

Accommodation: Invercargill - 1 Night

A short drive along the Southern Scenic Route this morning brings you to Curio Bay in the Catlins, the spectacular coastal area between Invercargill and Balclutha. Boasting a rugged beauty and untouched quality, here you’ll find a world of native forests fringed by high cliffs, deserted sandy beaches, sparkling bays, waterfalls, hidden lakes, blowholes, caves, picturesque lighthouses and even a petrified forest. The area is home to a lot of wildlife including native birds, seals, sea lions, dolphins, and penguins. From Curio Bay's 180-million-year-old fossilised forest to the tiered Purakaunui Falls, the Catlins Coast is full of hidden gems, rare marine wildlife and spectacular views

Approximate Distance: 90 km | 56 miles  Total Driving Time: 1 hour 15 mins

Accommodation:  The Catlins - 1 Night

Dunedin is one of the best-preserved Victorian cities in the Commonwealth, and also incorporates a diverse array of architectural styles from Tudor to Neo-Gothic. This eclectic University town and its surrounds have much to recommend them, and with two nights here you have ample time to explore. 

Approximate Distance: 180 kms | 112 miles  Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Accommodation: Dunedin - 2 Nights

How will you choose to spend your free day in the 'Edinburgh of the South'?

Nature lovers will adore the Otago Peninsula, home to sea-lions, seals, albatross and the world's smallest penguin. Enjoy the awesome eco-sanctuaries, bird colonies and nature walks around the Dunedin area.

You could also visit Larnach Castle, built in 1871. It took 200 workers three years to build, and twelve years to decorate! Housing a unique New Zealand antique collection and beautiful gardens, it's a relaxing place to meander.

You could try walking up Baldwin Street - the steepest residential street in the world! Then treat yourselves to dinner in one of the city's funky eateries on your final night in New Zealand.
 

"Haere rā" Goodbye! and Bon Voyage! Today we say farewell. Drop your rental car off at the airport prior to boarding your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional New Zealand holiday.