Daniel Collins - Fine Travel


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Northbound Explorer Christchurch to Auckland self drive tour

This 21 day tour starts in Christchurch and finishes in Auckland.


Starting in Christchurch this 3-week tour takes you around New Zealand's South Island before heading north to immerse yourself in the Maori culture. First, you'll visit the Mt Cook National Park, the Southern Lakes, cruise Milford Sound and meander up the dynamic west coast. Once you cross the Cook Strait you'll spend time in the quirky capital, journey the central plateau to the cultural centre, Rotorua. Highlights for many include a ride on the world-famous TranzAlpine Scenic Railway and perhaps catching a glimpse of a whale off the Kaikoura coast.


Accommodation type on this tour is: Motels.

Rental car insurance included

Rental car inclusions: Unlimited kilometres,airport/ferry terminal fees, additional drivers.

Tour pack: Includes detailed driving instructions, maps, guide books and much more.

This tour can be customised to suit you precisely - just request here.


This tour also features:


Itinerary summary for: Northbound Explorer Christchurch to Auckland self drive tour

Day 1: Arrive into Christchurch City
Accommodation: Bella Vista Christchurch

Day 2: Collect your rental, then enjoy a scenic drive through Canterbury and the MacKenzie Country
Accommodation: Mt Cook Motel

Day 3: Leaving the MacKenzie Country you'll follow the Waitaki River to the coast, where you'll turn south for Dunedin
Accommodation: Motel on York

Day 4: Today is yours to explore the historic city of Dunedin and encounter the wildlife on Otago Peninsula
Accommodation: Motel on York

Day 5: Travel through the rolling farmland of South Otago and Southland to reach Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland
Accommodation: Lakefront Lodge

Day 6: Journey along the magnificent Milford Road, then cruise Milford Sound before you return to Te Anau
Accommodation: Lakefront Lodge

Day 7: Travel through rural Southland then follow Lake Wakatipu to Queenstown
Accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown

Day 8: Today is yours to discover all the scenic spots and fun activities on offer in Queenstown
Accommodation: Scenic Suites Queenstown

Day 9: Take the Crown Range Road to Wanaka before travelling the spectacular Haast Pass to the West Coast
Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites

Day 10: Discover the wonders of Westland National Park and the glaciers
Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites

Day 11: Drive north along the stunning West Coast Road and take the TranzAlpine train to Christchurch
Accommodation: Bella Vista Christchurch

Day 12: Head up through North Canterbury to the wildlife mecca of Kaikoura
Accommodation: The White Morph, Kaikoura

Day 13: Travel to the idyllic Abel Tasman National Park
Accommodation: Ocean View Chalets

Day 14: Today explore the national park, choose from walking, cruising or kayaking
Accommodation: Ocean View Chalets

Day 15: Today you'll cross the Cook Strait on the Interislander Ferry. Departing Picton you'll cruise through the spectacular Marlborough Sounds
Accommodation: CityLife Wellington

Day 16: Uncover the charms of Wellington City, including the quirky cafes and fascinating museums
Accommodation: CityLife Wellington

Day 17: Today is filled with fantastic scenery including Lake Taupo, the Desert Road and the Kapiti Coastline as you depart Wellington
Accommodation: Silver Fern Suites & Spa

Day 18: Your day in Rotorua could be spent discovering Maori culture or thrilling adventure rides
Accommodation: Silver Fern Suites & Spa

Day 19: Drive through the rich fertile farmland of the Waikato and maybe stop at Hobbiton Village on your way to Auckland
Accommodation: Sudima Auckland City

Day 20: Today is free to explore our largest city, vineyard hopping or sailing on the harbour options are endless
Accommodation: Sudima Auckland City

Day 21: Depart Auckland today