Drive from Christchurch through the expanse of the Canterbury Plains before arriving in Oamaru.

Oamaru is famous for its wildlife; the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony provides a unique opportunity to see these adorable creatures up close.

For those seeking other activities out of the car can enjoy the scenic Oamaru Public Gardens and the coastal Oamaru Harbour.

In Oamaru town you can explore the historic precinct with its charming Victorian buildings, antique shops, and galleries. The Steampunk HQ museum also offers a quirky and fun experience.

Christchurch > Oamaru | 220 kms

Standard: Bella Vista Motel Oamaru
Deluxe: Pen Y Bryn Lodge

After your overnight stay drive south to the town of Dunedin. Dunedin is known as the “Edinburgh of the South” and you will be able to discover the town’s Scottish heritage during the afternoon.

You may like to visit the Otago Peninsula – home of a rare Royal Albatross Colony and endangered Yellow Penguins.  Alternatively you may prefer to spend time wandering through the historic Larnach Castle and its grounds.

Oamaru > Dunedin | 110 kms

Standard: Distinction Leisure Lodge
Deluxe: Camp Estate, Larnach Castle

Meander from the East Coast to the South Coast via the Southern Scenic Route taking you to Invercargill for a two night stay.

A full day excursion to Stewart Island is included where you may be lucky enough to spot the rare and elusive Kiwi.

Dunedin > Invercargill | 210 kms

Standard: Ascot Park Hotel
Deluxe: The Lodge, Transport World

Continue North to the gateway to the Fiorldlands. With two nights in Te Anau we have included a full 2 hour nature cruise around Milford Sound to allow you to fully experience the wonder of this serene landscape.

Invercargill > Te Anau | 160 kms

Standard: Distinction Luxmore Hotel
Deluxe: Fiordland Lodge

Drive north towards the scenic beauty of Queenstown, encased by the Remarkables Mountain Range. Enjoy a two night stay with time to take the Skyline Gondola, enjoy the thrills of any number of activities or cruise the still waters of Lake Wakatipu.

Te Anau > Queenstown | 170 kms

Standard: Copthorne Resort Lakefront Queenstown
Deluxe: Browns Boutique

Travel further still to the icy wonder of the Franz Josef glacier, one of the world’s most accessible advancing ice flows and one which you can take full advantage of by embarking on a valley walk or scenic flight over.

Queenstown > Franz Josef | 350 kms

Standard: Scenic Hotel Franz Josef, including breakfast
Deluxe: Rainforest Retreat

Continue your journey up the West Coast and spend the remainder of the day in Hokitika.

You may like to take a stroll along the beach or complete the short hike up to the gorge, where the river waters appear a bright turquoise due to the glacial sediment flowing down from up river.

Franz Josef > Hokitika | 138 kms

Standard: Beachfront Hotel, Hokitika
Deluxe: Rimu Lodge, Hokitika

After a night in Hokitika, travel to Greymouth to return your vehicle before embarking on the TranzAlpine train which leads you through the Southern Alps towards your final destination of Christchurch.

Hokitika > Christchurch | 240 kms