Best of Both Islands
21 day Self Drive & Motorhome Holiday – from £1995
With flights from £3345
Take the wheel on a pre-planned North Island self drive tour before enjoying the freedom of the open road in a fully equipped motorhome around the South.
Highlights:
- Marvel at the geothermal wonders of Rotorua
- Visit Wellington’s museums and waterfront
- Enjoy the scenic Interislander ferry crossing
- Ride the Coastal Pacific train to Christchurch
- Explore the South Island by motorhome
Your Itinerary
Expand AllYou can customise your New Zealand motorhome holiday by adding extra nights, destinations or activities. Just let us know what you would like to do.
Arrive into Auckland International Airport and get transferred by private car to your downtown hotel. Spend the remainder of the day relaxing after your flight or exploring downtown Auckland.
Once you are well rested enjoy a day absorbing the lively atmosphere of Viaduct Harbour and the newly developed Britomart precinct, or marvel at the panoramic views of the city from the top of the skyline piercing Skytower.
Day 3 – Rotorua
Collect your rental car this morning and make your way to Rotorua. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure in Rotorua, the centre of intense thermal activity in New Zealand.
Geysers, pools of bubbling mud, crystal clear springs and richly coloured craters make Rotorua one of the world’s great tourist attractions. The city itself is situated on the shores of Lake Rotorua where boat tours and excellent fishing is available.
Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
Day 4 – Taupo & Huka Falls
There are more thermal wonders today as you make the short drive to Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake, and the dramatic Huka Falls nearby.
There will be time to witness the bubbling Champagne Pools of Wai-o-Tapu Thermal Wonderland or the colourful silica terraces of Orakei Korako.
Lakeland Resort Taupo
Day 5 – Napier & Hawkes Bay
Continue your scenic drive to the coastal town of Napier. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure exploring the town.
The centre of the Hawkes Bay region of New Zealand, Napier is renowned for both its Art Deco architecture, and its wine industry. It is said to be one of the warmest regions in the country with warm summers and mild winters perfect for growing gapes. There are many tours and activities you can choose from in Napier, including wine tasting and guided walks around the local art deco areas.
The Nautilus, Napier
Day 6 – Napier to Wellington
Continue your drive to the south coast of the North Island. Make your way to Wellington, where you can spend the rest of the day at leisure exploring the city.
Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, lies on the shores of a magnificent harbour and is surrounded by green hills. It is one of New Zealand’s most scenic cities.
Some of the best views in Wellington can be obtained from the hilltops. Hop on board an historic tram to ride up to the Kelburn Lookout, and top entrance to the Botanic Garden. Or hike or drive up to Mount Victoria Lookout for panoramic vistas over the city and harbour.
Travelodge Hotel Wellington
Day 7 – Interislander Ferry & Coastal Pacific
Leave your car at the Interislander ferry depot and enjoy the scenic cruise over the Cook Strait and through the Marlborough Sounds to Picton in the South Island.
From here board the Coastal Pacific train for your journey down the picturesque coastline of the South Island’s East Coast, eventually arriving into Christchurch, where you will stay overnight.
Fable Hotel
Day 8 – Christchurch to Hokitika
Pick up your comfortable motorhome for a total of fourteen days giving you ample time to explore the wonders of the South Island at your leisure. New Zealand allows motorhome users the option to ‘Freedom Camp’ meaning you can wake up in some of the most spectacular settings in complete seclusion.
Begin your exploration with an amazing journey, across the spectacular Southern Alps mountain range to New Zealand’s west coast. On the way stop to explore the scenic mountain views at Arthur’s Pass National Park.
Once you reach the coast, overnight in Hokitika.
Day 9 – Hokitika to Franz Josef
Take time this morning to visit Hokitika Gorge. This fast flowing river is famous for its turquoise waters. The waters appear so vibrant, due to the high concentration of glacial silt in the river, indicating that the water comes direct from the glaciers high above the town.
In the afternoon, continue your journey down the picturesque coast to the town of Franz Josef, where you can stay for the next two nights.
Day 10 – Franz Josef Glacier
The town of Franz Josef is the starting point for exploring the Franz Josef Glacier.
The Franz Josef Glacier is a 12km long finger of ice that stretches towards the ocean from a huge icefield up in the Southern Alps. It features ice pinnacles as high as multi-story buildings, deep crevasses and stunning, pristine blue ice.
The best way to discover the glacier is to enjoy a scenic helicopter flight up the glacier, to join a guided trek across the ice with an experienced guide to lead the way and explain the ice formations. The Franz Josef Heli-Hike is an experience never to be forgotten.
Day 11 to 13 – Queenstown
Continue along the coast and then head inland around Mount Aspiring National Park. You will probably want to stop alongside the beautiful lakes of Wanaka and Hawea, before continuing on to the amazing town of Queenstown on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
During your stay in Queenstown you can enjoy some adventure activities such a jet-boat rides or bungee jumping, or perhaps something more relaxing as a cruise on the Steamship Earnslaw, or a visit to Onsen Hot Pools.
Queenstown is hive of activity with guided hikes and tours to movie locations all on the doorstep. There is also plenty of restaurants and shops to enjoy in downtown.
Day 14 & 15 – Te Anau & Milford Sound
The drive from Queenstown to Te Anau shouldn’t be rushed as their are plenty of scenic viewpoints to visit along the way. We suggest stopping at Devil’s Staircase Lookout and Kingston for panoramic views along Lake Wakatipu.
Te Anau is the gateway to the Fiordland National Park, and it is from here that you can make another spectacular journey to Milford Sound.
Milford Sound is a picturesque fjord, with steep-sided cliffs, that reaches out to the ocean. The best way to experience Milford Sound is a scenic cruise along the calm waters, allowing you to view the spectacular waterfalls up close.
The spectacular drive to and from Milford Sound is equally beautiful with mirror lakes and wild flowers adjacent to the road.
Day 16 & 17 – Te Anau to Invercargill
Leaving Fiordland National Park, continue your motorhome adventure by heading to Invercargill. the most southerly town in New Zealand.
The town of Invercargill has become known as the “City of Water and Light”, referring to the long summer daylight hours, the frequent appearances of the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights), and the city’s position beside the Waihōpai River estuary.
Invercargill is also the departure point for exploring Stewart Island. As well as being a beautiful island, with many picturesque bays and ancient forests, the island is also famous for being a haven for New Zealand’s most unique bird, the kiwi. A guided tour at dusk is probably your best opportunity for a wild kiwi encounter.
Day 18 & 19 – Dunedin
From Invercargill you can simply follow the coast all the way to Dunedin, the principal city of the Otago region. Ringed by green hills that overlook a pretty harbour, Dunedin is home to Edwardian and Victorian architecture that are relics of the brief gold rush in the area. Particularly worth a visit is Larnach Castle, on the Otago peninsula, which was built in 1871 and remains New Zealand’s only castle.
The area around Dunedin is also thriving with unique wildlife, including penguins, fur seals and albatross. The best way to view this wildlife is from the sea, so if you wish to see more it is worthwhile joining a guided Otago cruise around the bay.
Day 20 – Oamaru
On your way back to Christchurch, break up the journey in Oamaru to soak in the scenic hot tubs, marvel at the Moeraki Boulders or watch the natural phenomenon of the blue penguin colony returning from sea to their nests at night.
Day 21 – Farewell from Christchurch
Complete your motorhome tour of the South Island by driving back to Christchurch. Your adventure on the open road ends when you return your motorhome to the depot, and transfer to the airport.
Your Itinerary
You can customise your New Zealand motorhome holiday by adding extra nights, destinations or activities. Just let us know what you would like to do.
Day 1 & 2
| Welcome to Auckland
Arrive into Auckland International Airport and get transferred by private car to your downtown hotel. Spend the remainder of the day relaxing after your flight or exploring downtown Auckland.
Once you are well rested enjoy a day absorbing the lively atmosphere of Viaduct Harbour and the newly developed Britomart precinct, or marvel at the panoramic views of the city from the top of the skyline piercing Skytower.
Day 3
| Rotorua
Collect your rental car this morning and make your way to Rotorua. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure in Rotorua, the centre of intense thermal activity in New Zealand.
Geysers, pools of bubbling mud, crystal clear springs and richly coloured craters make Rotorua one of the world’s great tourist attractions. The city itself is situated on the shores of Lake Rotorua where boat tours and excellent fishing is available.
Sudima Hotel Lake Rotorua
Day 4
| Taupo & Huka Falls
There are more thermal wonders today as you make the short drive to Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake, and the dramatic Huka Falls nearby.
There will be time to witness the bubbling Champagne Pools of Wai-o-Tapu Thermal Wonderland or the colourful silica terraces of Orakei Korako.
Lakeland Resort Taupo
Day 5
| Napier & Hawkes Bay
Continue your scenic drive to the coastal town of Napier. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure exploring the town.
The centre of the Hawkes Bay region of New Zealand, Napier is renowned for both its Art Deco architecture, and its wine industry. It is said to be one of the warmest regions in the country with warm summers and mild winters perfect for growing gapes. There are many tours and activities you can choose from in Napier, including wine tasting and guided walks around the local art deco areas.
The Nautilus, Napier
Day 6
| Napier to Wellington
Continue your drive to the south coast of the North Island. Make your way to Wellington, where you can spend the rest of the day at leisure exploring the city.
Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, lies on the shores of a magnificent harbour and is surrounded by green hills. It is one of New Zealand’s most scenic cities.
Some of the best views in Wellington can be obtained from the hilltops. Hop on board an historic tram to ride up to the Kelburn Lookout, and top entrance to the Botanic Garden. Or hike or drive up to Mount Victoria Lookout for panoramic vistas over the city and harbour.
Travelodge Hotel Wellington
Day 7
| Interislander Ferry & Coastal Pacific
Leave your car at the Interislander ferry depot and enjoy the scenic cruise over the Cook Strait and through the Marlborough Sounds to Picton in the South Island.
From here board the Coastal Pacific train for your journey down the picturesque coastline of the South Island’s East Coast, eventually arriving into Christchurch, where you will stay overnight.
Fable Hotel
Day 8
| Christchurch to Hokitika
Pick up your comfortable motorhome for a total of fourteen days giving you ample time to explore the wonders of the South Island at your leisure. New Zealand allows motorhome users the option to ‘Freedom Camp’ meaning you can wake up in some of the most spectacular settings in complete seclusion.
Begin your exploration with an amazing journey, across the spectacular Southern Alps mountain range to New Zealand’s west coast. On the way stop to explore the scenic mountain views at Arthur’s Pass National Park.
Once you reach the coast, overnight in Hokitika.
Day 9
| Hokitika to Franz Josef
Take time this morning to visit Hokitika Gorge. This fast flowing river is famous for its turquoise waters. The waters appear so vibrant, due to the high concentration of glacial silt in the river, indicating that the water comes direct from the glaciers high above the town.
In the afternoon, continue your journey down the picturesque coast to the town of Franz Josef, where you can stay for the next two nights.
Day 10
| Franz Josef Glacier
The town of Franz Josef is the starting point for exploring the Franz Josef Glacier.
The Franz Josef Glacier is a 12km long finger of ice that stretches towards the ocean from a huge icefield up in the Southern Alps. It features ice pinnacles as high as multi-story buildings, deep crevasses and stunning, pristine blue ice.
The best way to discover the glacier is to enjoy a scenic helicopter flight up the glacier, to join a guided trek across the ice with an experienced guide to lead the way and explain the ice formations. The Franz Josef Heli-Hike is an experience never to be forgotten.
Day 11 to 13
| Queenstown
Continue along the coast and then head inland around Mount Aspiring National Park. You will probably want to stop alongside the beautiful lakes of Wanaka and Hawea, before continuing on to the amazing town of Queenstown on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
During your stay in Queenstown you can enjoy some adventure activities such a jet-boat rides or bungee jumping, or perhaps something more relaxing as a cruise on the Steamship Earnslaw, or a visit to Onsen Hot Pools.
Queenstown is hive of activity with guided hikes and tours to movie locations all on the doorstep. There is also plenty of restaurants and shops to enjoy in downtown.
Day 14 & 15
| Te Anau & Milford Sound
The drive from Queenstown to Te Anau shouldn’t be rushed as their are plenty of scenic viewpoints to visit along the way. We suggest stopping at Devil’s Staircase Lookout and Kingston for panoramic views along Lake Wakatipu.
Te Anau is the gateway to the Fiordland National Park, and it is from here that you can make another spectacular journey to Milford Sound.
Milford Sound is a picturesque fjord, with steep-sided cliffs, that reaches out to the ocean. The best way to experience Milford Sound is a scenic cruise along the calm waters, allowing you to view the spectacular waterfalls up close.
The spectacular drive to and from Milford Sound is equally beautiful with mirror lakes and wild flowers adjacent to the road.
Day 16 & 17
| Te Anau to Invercargill
Leaving Fiordland National Park, continue your motorhome adventure by heading to Invercargill. the most southerly town in New Zealand.
The town of Invercargill has become known as the “City of Water and Light”, referring to the long summer daylight hours, the frequent appearances of the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights), and the city’s position beside the Waihōpai River estuary.
Invercargill is also the departure point for exploring Stewart Island. As well as being a beautiful island, with many picturesque bays and ancient forests, the island is also famous for being a haven for New Zealand’s most unique bird, the kiwi. A guided tour at dusk is probably your best opportunity for a wild kiwi encounter.
Day 18 & 19
| Dunedin
From Invercargill you can simply follow the coast all the way to Dunedin, the principal city of the Otago region. Ringed by green hills that overlook a pretty harbour, Dunedin is home to Edwardian and Victorian architecture that are relics of the brief gold rush in the area. Particularly worth a visit is Larnach Castle, on the Otago peninsula, which was built in 1871 and remains New Zealand’s only castle.
The area around Dunedin is also thriving with unique wildlife, including penguins, fur seals and albatross. The best way to view this wildlife is from the sea, so if you wish to see more it is worthwhile joining a guided Otago cruise around the bay.
Day 20
| Oamaru
On your way back to Christchurch, break up the journey in Oamaru to soak in the scenic hot tubs, marvel at the Moeraki Boulders or watch the natural phenomenon of the blue penguin colony returning from sea to their nests at night.
Day 21
| Farewell from Christchurch
Complete your motorhome tour of the South Island by driving back to Christchurch. Your adventure on the open road ends when you return your motorhome to the depot, and transfer to the airport.
This Holiday Includes
Flights & More
Ask your FREEDOM Consultant to include Economy, Premium or Business Class flights for a complete ABTA and ATOL protected package.
They can also add extra nights and experiences in places you choose, to create the exact holiday you are looking for. Popular options include:
- Extra nights in Auckland, Wellington or any other location
- A stopover to New Zealand in Singapore, Dubai or another destination
- South Island day tours and experiences
Next Step
Please get in touch with our New Zealand Experts to start planning your holiday. You’ll have a single point of contact from your first enquiry through booking.
Best of Both Islands
21 day Self Drive & Motorhome Holiday – from £1995
With flights from £3345
Guide prices shown are per person based on two people sharing standard accommodation and include full ABTA/ATOL protection. Prices vary according to season and standard of accommodation chosen.