- 4.9/5 509 Latest reviews
- Destination: New Zealand, Australia
- Duration: 21 Days
- Tour Type: Self-Drive
- Tour Style: Classic
About This Trip
Journey from striking alpine landscapes to lush tropical rainforests and colorful coral reefs, experiencing an incredible range of natural beauty. Take in the majestic snow-dusted mountains and tranquil lakes of Mt. Cook National Park, where the scenery feels truly otherworldly. Delight in exceptional wine tastings in famous regions like the Hunter Valley, known for its outstanding vineyards. Watch lively dolphins as you cross the Cook Strait, observe enormous saltwater crocodiles in the ancient Daintree Rainforest, and explore vibrant marine life while snorkeling on the outer Great Barrier Reef. Traveling through the lands down under is an unforgettable experience in every sense.
Summary
DAY
PLACE
HIGHLIGHTS
1 - 14
New Zealand
Auckland: City Discovery
Waitomo: Glowworm Caves
Rotorua: Te Puia Geothermal Park, Hell's Gate Mud Spa
Taupo: Huka Falls, Lake Taupo
Wellington: City Explorations With Food & Wine
Lake Tekapo: Church of the Good Shepherd
Mt. Cook National Park: Tasman Glacier, Hooker Valley
Queenstown: Milford Sound
15 - 21
Australia
Sydney: Blue Mountains, Hunter Valley Wine Tasting
Cairns: Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest, Fitzroy Island
Itinerary
- Day 1: Welcome to Auckland & Self-Drive Begins
Kia Ora and welcome to Aotearoa, New Zealand!
Once you arrive at Auckland Airport, collect your rental car and make your way to the hotel for check-in. New Zealand is ideal for a self-drive adventure, with smooth highways and breathtaking views throughout the journey.
The remainder of the day is yours to relax after your flight, unwind in your comfortable room, or head out to explore the surrounding area at your own pace.
- Auckland
- Day 2: Explore Auckland at Leisure
Spend the day discovering Auckland at your own pace. Wine enthusiasts may choose an optional tasting excursion to Waiheke Island in the scenic Hauraki Gulf, a beautiful introduction to New Zealand. The Auckland wine region is known for quality varietals such as Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Malbec, many regarded among the nation’s finest.
If you prefer sightseeing, hike up Maungakiekie / One Tree Hill to understand its cultural importance to the Māori and enjoy sweeping city views. You could also visit the Auckland Museum to explore its rich Māori heritage and natural history exhibits, or dine at a restaurant overlooking the harbor (at your own cost). Make the most of your day in Auckland!
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- Auckland
- Day 3: Scenic Drive to Rotorua & Waitomo Glowworm Caves
Begin your road journey heading south toward Rotorua today. Known for its colorful geothermal landscapes, soothing natural settings, and rich Māori heritage, Rotorua promises a memorable stay at the heart of New Zealand’s North Island.
Follow State Highway 1, the country’s longest route stretching from Cape Reinga in the far north to Invercargill in the deep south. Along the way, pause at Waitomo to explore the famous Glowworm Caves. On a shared guided tour with a boat ride, gaze up at thousands of glowing insects lighting the cave ceiling and admire the impressive limestone formations shaped over centuries. Fans of The Lord of the Rings may opt to visit the Hobbiton Movie Set, stepping into a hobbit hole and the iconic Green Dragon Inn. Continue onward to Rotorua, arriving later in the day for hotel check-in.
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- Rotorua
- Day 4: Discovering Rotorua’s Geothermal Marvels
Spend today exploring Rotorua at your own pace, immersing yourself in its remarkable geothermal landscapes. You may choose to visit Te Puia, one of New Zealand’s most renowned geothermal parks, famous for its towering erupting geysers and bubbling mud pools. Witness Pohutu Geyser, the largest active geyser in the Southern Hemisphere, see native kiwi birds at the Kiwi Conservation Centre, and observe skilled Māori artists as they demonstrate traditional carving and weaving techniques.
Later, consider enhancing your experience with a relaxing mud spa session. At Hell’s Gate Geothermal Reserve and Mud Spa, mineral-rich geothermal mud and sulfur pools—used by Māori for generations—offer a deeply soothing soak. Let the warmth ease tired muscles, refresh your skin, and leave you feeling renewed and energized.
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- Rotorua
- Day 5: Huka Falls & Scenic Drive to Taihape
Set off on another rewarding drive today, with about an hour on the road bringing you to Taupo. Along the way, you may choose to pause at Waimangu Volcanic Valley to explore its striking geothermal features. Colorful thermal pools, dramatic volcanic terrain, and surrounding hills blanketed in greenery create a truly captivating natural setting.
On arrival in Taupo, marvel at the thundering Huka Falls as turquoise waters plunge into a deep pool below. Continue your journey south along State Highway 1, skirting the shores of Lake Taupo and enjoying panoramic lake views that make the drive a pleasure.
Next, travel along the famous Desert Road, crossing the stark landscapes of the Rangipo Desert with the majestic volcanoes of Tongariro National Park rising on the horizon. By evening, reach the peaceful town of Taihape. Rest well tonight and gather your energy for the adventures ahead.
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- Taihape
- Day 6: Journey to Wellington via Wairarapa Wine Country
Continue your southward adventure today as you make your way to Wellington, New Zealand’s political hub, renowned for its vibrant food scene. The drive passes through the scenic Wairarapa Wine Region, dotted with charming towns and sprawling vineyards. Along the route, you may choose to stop at a winery to sample the region’s exceptional wines, from rich and velvety Pinot Noir to crisp Sauvignon Blanc and intricate, full-bodied Chardonnay.
Once you arrive in Wellington, check into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to explore the city. Wellington is celebrated for its culinary culture, hosting annual events like Wellington On a Plate and the Wellington Food Show, where locals and visitors come together to enjoy the region’s renowned food and wine offerings. Be sure to check event dates ahead of time to make the most of your visit.
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- Wellington
- Day 7: Ferry Crossing to Picton and Drive to Kaikoura
Spend your morning exploring Wellington at your own pace. Consider joining a guided Wētā Workshop Tour to step into the imaginative world of one of the film industry’s top special effects studios. Discover the stories behind an impressive collection of movie props, from armor and weapons to fantastical creatures and miniature models.
Later, make your way to the ferry terminal for a scenic three-and-a-half-hour ride across the Cook Strait to New Zealand’s South Island. Keep an eye out for the playful marine life that inhabits these waters, including Dusky dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, and the rare Hector dolphins.
Arrive in Picton in the late afternoon, then continue by car to the charming coastal town of Kaikoura, where you will spend the night.
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- Kaikoura
- Day 8: Journey to Christchurch
Kaikoura, known as New Zealand’s whale capital, provides one of the finest whale-watching experiences in the Southern Hemisphere. Year-round, you may spot Sperm whales, while Humpback whales (June-July) and Killer whales (December-March) appear seasonally. This morning, consider an optional 2-hour whale-watching cruise to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural environment and learn about their behaviors. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel or explore Kaikoura at your own pace.
In the afternoon, continue your drive south to Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island. Along the way, ocean views gradually transition into lush farmland and picturesque small towns, with the journey taking approximately two and a half hours.
Upon arrival, spend the remainder of the day exploring Christchurch independently. You might take a ride on the historic Tram to visit the city’s landmarks or hop on the Gondola for sweeping panoramic views of Christchurch bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun.
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- Christchurch
- Day 9: Drive to Lake Tekapo & Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd
Today’s drive brings a dramatic change in landscape as the fertile fields and rolling vineyards of the Canterbury/Waipara wine region give way to the snow-capped peaks and towering mountains of the Southern Alps. Departing from Christchurch, the journey to Lake Tekapo—a famously picturesque and highly photographed destination—takes approximately three and a half hours.
On a clear day, the lake glows a brilliant turquoise, its shores lined with grassy meadows and, in summer, vibrant Lupin flowers, offering a serene setting perfect for relaxation and photography. Admire the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd set against the stunning backdrop of rugged mountains and shimmering waters. Optionally, visit the Mt. John Observatory for panoramic views of the surrounding area. As Lake Tekapo lies within a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, you may also join an evening stargazing tour to marvel at the brilliant southern night sky.
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- Lake Tekapo
- Day 10: Aoraki / Mt. Cook National Park – Alpine Splendors
Continue your adventure as you travel to Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park, where towering snow-capped peaks, rugged cliffs, majestic glaciers, and alpine forests combine to form a landscape of breathtaking beauty. Depart Lake Tekapo and, after approximately half an hour, arrive at Lake Pukaki. Marvel at its brilliant turquoise waters with the majestic Mt. Cook rising proudly in the background.
Check into your hotel and spend the remainder of the day immersing yourself in the park’s stunning scenery. Observe the impressive Tasman Glacier, New Zealand’s longest, along with its adjacent lake and floating icebergs from a viewpoint. Take a gentle hike along the Hooker Valley Track to connect with the ancient landscape, or elevate your experience with an optional scenic helicopter flight over the peaks. End your day resting under the serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere of this alpine paradise.
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- Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
- Day 11: Scenic Drive to Wanaka
Leave the alpine beauty of Aoraki/Mt. Cook behind and set out on a picturesque drive to Wanaka, a charming lakeside town known for its outdoor activities. This approximately two-and-a-half-hour journey winds through scenic highways, passing dramatic mountains, rolling plains, and quaint rural settlements. Along the way, consider stopping at High Country Salmon for a coffee or tea break, and take in the breathtaking views from Lindis Pass Lookout, where the surrounding peaks create a spectacular panorama.
Before arriving in Wanaka, you might choose to visit a local winery and sample some of Central Otago’s exquisite wines. Renowned for its award-winning Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris with notes of apricot and citrus, this region is among New Zealand’s top wine destinations. Once in Wanaka, enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, exploring the town or simply relaxing by the lake.
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- Wanaka
- Day 12: Arrowtown Visit & Arrival in Queenstown
Enjoy the serene beauty of Wanaka before setting off once more towards Queenstown, New Zealand’s hub for adventure. Travel through the scenic Cardrona Valley, a region famous for activities such as mountain biking, horseback riding, and winter sports including skiing and snowboarding. In about an hour, you’ll reach Arrowtown, a charming historic gold-mining village that retains the character of its past. For a deeper dive into its heritage, consider visiting the Lakes District Museum & Gallery.
Continue your journey to Queenstown and spend the rest of the day exploring the city at your own pace. Take the Skyline Gondola, the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere, for breathtaking panoramic views, stroll along the walking trails of Bob’s Peak, or enjoy a memorable meal at a lakeside restaurant (at your own expense). Conclude the day by returning your rental car, marking the successful completion of a truly remarkable road trip.
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- Queenstown
- Day 13: Milford Sound Excursion & Scenic Cruise
Fiordland, with its dramatic landscapes and untamed beauty, leaves every visitor in awe. Towering peaks pierce the clouds, waterfalls thunder down rugged cliffs, and wildlife thrives in dense forests and tranquil waters. Today, experience the majesty of Milford Sound, the jewel of Fiordland, on a join-in tour departing from Queenstown.
The journey along Milford Road is a visual delight, revealing breathtaking scenery at every turn and evoking the landscapes of Middle Earth for any Lord of the Rings fans. The highlight of the day is a Milford Sound cruise, where you drift across serene waters, take in the astonishing natural beauty, listen to expert commentary about the area, and keep an eye out for playful dolphins and curious fur seals. Return to Queenstown with unforgettable memories and the spectacular image of Milford Sound etched in your mind.
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- Queenstown
- Day 14: Leisure and Adventure in Queenstown
Take a relaxed day to unwind at your hotel or explore Queenstown at your own pace. Consider a serene TSS Earnslaw Cruise on the stunning Lake Wakatipu, followed by a delightful dinner featuring fresh produce from the gardens at Walter Peak High Country Farm.
For thrill-seekers, Queenstown offers endless adventure opportunities. Experience the excitement of a jetboat ride along the Dart River, or embark on a day hike along the Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, showcasing breathtaking mountain vistas, deep valleys, and lush alpine forests. Enjoy your day discovering the best of Queenstown!
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- Queenstown
- Day 15: Flight to Sydney
Bid farewell to Aotearoa New Zealand today and make your way to the airport for your flight across the Tasman Sea to Sydney, Australia’s vibrant largest city. After a three-and-a-half-hour journey, meet your private driver for a smooth transfer to your hotel.
Spend the remainder of the day exploring Sydney at your own pace. Wander through The Rocks to glimpse the city’s historical charm, stroll along the iconic Circular Quay, and capture the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge together in a perfect photo at Mrs. Macquarie’s Point.
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- Sydney
- Day 16: Blue Mountains Excursion
Experience the awe-inspiring Blue Mountains, a World Heritage-listed region famed for its towering cliffs, rugged peaks, distinctive sandstone formations, thundering waterfalls, and Aboriginal rock art—a serene escape from Sydney’s bustling city life.
Explore the area today with your English-speaking driver. Travel comfortably in a private vehicle, taking in the lush scenery along the way, then stop at Lincoln’s Rock for panoramic views of the rolling green mountains and valleys. Next, ride the Scenic World Railway, the steepest in the world, down to Jamison Valley, stroll along boardwalks to learn about native plants and birds, and enjoy sweeping views of the Three Sisters from the Skyway. An Unlimited Discovery Pass is included, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
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- Sydney
- Day 17: Hunter Valley Wine & Gourmet Tour
Escape the city bustle and head north from Sydney with your private driver to Hunter Valley, a renowned destination for wine and food enthusiasts. As Australia’s oldest wine region, it boasts historic cellar doors producing award-winning Shiraz, Chardonnay, and world-famous Semillon, along with delicious local treats like artisanal cheese and olive oil.
Enjoy three wine tastings at carefully chosen wineries, sampling the region’s signature wines while soaking in views of the vineyards and rolling hills. Relish a gourmet lunch at a winery and savor Hunter Valley’s unique flavors, then stop at the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company for handmade chocolates, fudge, and gelato. Return to Sydney in the evening after a day filled with culinary and scenic delights.
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- Sydney
- Day 18: Flight to Cairns
Today, journey to tropical North Queensland. Make your way to Sydney Airport and board a 3-hour flight to Cairns, the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the untouched Daintree Rainforest. Upon arrival, your private driver will meet you and transfer you smoothly to your hotel.
Spend the rest of the day exploring Cairns at your own pace. Take a leisurely walk along the Esplanade and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze, dine at a waterfront restaurant while watching a stunning sunset, or visit Rusty’s Markets on the weekend to experience the local flavors and vibrant atmosphere.
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- Cairns
- Day 19: Great Barrier Reef & Fitzroy Island Adventure
Dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Great Barrier Reef for an unforgettable day! Begin with a boat trip to the Sunlover Pontoon near Moore Reef, where a morning of excitement awaits. Snorkel among colorful marine life, take a glass-bottom boat tour if you prefer to stay dry, or enhance your experience with optional activities like helmet diving or scenic helicopter flights.
Later, board another boat to Fitzroy Island and enjoy a delicious lunch. Surrounded by lush rainforests filled with unique birds and plant species, Fitzroy Island captivates nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. Spend the next couple of hours exploring at your own pace, and consider joining a guided Nature Walk, Rainforest Tour, or Turtle Walk Presentation (additional cost) to meet the island’s charming inhabitants. Return to Cairns by the end of the day.
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- Cairns
- Day 20: Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation Adventure
Set off on a full day of rainforest exploration with a join-in tour! The Daintree is the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, thriving for over 100 million years. Beneath its dense canopy lies a remarkable ecosystem, home to 30% of Australia’s frogs, marsupials, and reptiles, and 65% of its bat and butterfly species.
After about an hour’s drive, arrive at Mossman Gorge Cultural Centre. Take a nature walk along the trails to feel the rainforest’s vibrant energy, then continue deeper into this enchanting land to reach the Daintree River. Enjoy an hour-long river cruise to spot massive saltwater crocodiles and other fascinating wildlife. Later, reach Cape Tribulation Beach, where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef. On the return journey, stop at the Daintree Ice Cream Company for a tasty treat and at Mount Alexandra Lookout for sweeping views of the region.
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- Cairns
- Day 21: Farewell Cairns
Today marks the conclusion of your Australia and New Zealand adventure. Enjoy a final moment soaking in Cairns’ tropical atmosphere before your private driver transfers you to the airport for your flight home. Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey!
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