Majestic New Zealand: Both Islands Self-Drive in 12 Days
New Zealand · Auckland · Rotorua +2
Drive from Auckland to Christchurch over twelve days, combining both islands without retracing your route. The North Island brings Waitomo, Hobbiton, Wai-O-Tapu and the Redwoods Nightlights before an independently arranged flight from Rotorua to Christchurch. Continue along the South Island’s West Coast for Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, cross Haast Pass to Queenstown, visit Milford Sound, then return through Aoraki Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo. Eleven nights’ accommodation, rental car hire and five selected experiences are included; the domestic flight between islands is not. With time built around the glacier region and major scenic drives, this journey suits independent travellers who want both islands, a clear one-way route and freedom to explore at their own pace.
A Glimpse of Your Journey
- ◆Self-drive — 11-day rental car with zero or reduced excess liability, Auckland to Christchurch
- ◆Waitomo and Hobbiton — both on one day's drive from Auckland to Rotorua
- ◆West Coast glaciers — two nights in Franz Josef to explore glacier country at your own pace
- ◆Milford Sound — self-drive to Fiordland with fiord cruise and lunch
- ◆Aoraki Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo — the Mackenzie Basin on the return to Christchurch
Itinerary & Route
Collect your rental car at Auckland Airport and drive to your accommodation in the city. The car is included for 11 days with zero or reduced excess liability — confirm the specific excess terms at collection. Auckland Airport is 21 kilometres south of the city centre; allow 30–45 minutes depending on traffic.
Auckland Waterfront — Viaduct Harbour and the Wynyard Quarter are within easy reach of most central hotels. The ferry terminal connects to Devonport and Waiheke Island for those arriving with time to spare.
Optional: Auckland Harbour Dinner Cruise (own expense); Sky Tower and Orbit Restaurant (own expense).
Collect your rental car at Auckland Airport and drive to your accommodation in the city. The car is included for 11 days with zero or reduced excess liability — confirm the specific excess terms at collection. Auckland Airport is 21 kilometres south of the city centre; allow 30–45 minutes depending on traffic.
Auckland Waterfront — Viaduct Harbour and the Wynyard Quarter are within easy reach of most central hotels. The ferry terminal connects to Devonport and Waiheke Island for those arriving with time to spare.
Optional: Auckland Harbour Dinner Cruise (own expense); Sky Tower and Orbit Restaurant (own expense).
What's Included
- hotel
Accommodation
11 nights’ accommodation
- restaurant
Meals
Hobbiton lunch and Milford Sound cruise lunch
- airport_shuttle
Transport
11-day rental car with zero or reduced excess liability
- tour
Guide
Guided Waitomo and Hobbiton tours
- local_activity
Activities
Waitomo cruise, Hobbiton, Wai-O-Tapu, Redwoods Nightlights and Milford Sound
Dates & Prices
Dates are flexible
This is a private, ground-only itinerary — travel on dates that suit you. Enquire and we'll quote you for your preferred dates.
