14-Day New Zealand's Southern Traverse
Inclusions
The accommodation
Get ready to be wowed by the otherworldly landscapes of Aotearoa New Zealand's South Island on this 14-day self-drive itinerary. In partnership with Warner Bros' and Mojang Studios to celebrate the release of "A Minecraft Movie", New Zealand has created a world-first destination DLC (downloadable content) for Minecraft. But why stop at playing in-game when you can experience incredible real-world activities like embarking on one of the world's most scenic train journey and marvelling at rainforest-fringed bays on a scenic lake cruise.
Day 1 - 2 ChristchurchBegin your adventure in Otautahi Christchurch, the South Island's largest city and the gateway to the Canterbury region with a blend of historic and modern architecture and natural attractions on the doorstep. Check into your 4-star hotel and take time to explore the city, where restored heritage buildings, street art and urban green spaces intertwine.
Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, enjoy a peaceful punt ride along the Avon River or admire art in one of the city's galleries. In the evening, discover Christchurch's rich food scene at Little High Eatery, an indoor/outdoor marketplace with nine locally-run eateries.
Day 3 - 4 Christchurch to Hokitika (260km)
Drive from Christchurch to Hokitika for a journey filled with breathtaking views. You'll traverse the Canterbury Plains, pass through rugged landscapes, and take in the awe-inspiring Southern Alps before arriving in Hokitika on the West Coast.
Hokitika is a charming coastal town known for its untouched wilderness, wild beaches, greenstone carvings and spectacular scenery. Check into your accommodation before exploring Hokitika's artisan shops, the Hokitika Gorge or simply unwind with a meal at Ocean View Restaurant.
Stay 1 night in Hokitika.
Day 4 - 5 Hokitika to Franz Josef (138km)
Journey south along the rugged West Coast to Franz Josef, a small township that is home to the famous glacier and lush rainforest. Check into your 4-star motel and jump on a Scenic Cruise with Franz Josef Wilderness Tours, exploring serene waterways and rugged backdrops.
Immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty by taking a guided hike to the Franz Josef Glacier viewpoint or sinking into the local hot pools for a relaxing soak amidst the rainforest. At the end of your day, dine on a five-course degustation menu paired with world-class wines at Canopy Restaurant.
Stay 2 nights in Franz Josef.
Day 6 - 7 Franz Josef to Wanaka (287km)
Drive inland towards Wanaka, a picture-perfect location that offers plenty of outdoor activities. Check into your 4-star motel and take a leisurely lakeside walk, capturing views of the iconic "That Wanaka Tree."
For a touch of adventure, opt for a short hike up Mount Iron for panoramic views of the Southern Alps or explore Wanaka's shops and vibrant dining scene. For an extra special meal, drive 20-minutes out of the town centre to the iconic Cardrona Hotel and dine on traditional pub favourites with a twist.
Stay 1 night in Wanaka.
Day 7 - 10 Wanaka to Queenstown (69km)
A short but scenic drive brings you to Tahuna Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Check into your 4-star hotel and explore the town's charming waterfront along Lake Whakatipu.
Over the next few days, experience Queenstown's signature thrills, from bungy jumping and jet boating to gondola rides with breathtaking alpine views. For relaxation, book a session in a private hot tub offer stunning vistas of the Shotover River.
A day trip to Arrowtown provides a glimpse into the region's gold-rush history, while wine lovers can explore Central Otago's world-renowned vineyards, sampling award-winning Pinot Noir. Return to Queenstown in the evening for a meal at Sherwood, where seasonal menus feature locally grown, foraged and sourced ingredients.
Stay 3 nights in Queenstown.
Day 10 - 12 Queenstown to Dunedin (282km)
Travel east to Otepoti Dunedin, a city that offers a diverse array of experiences from its breathtaking landscapes to its rich cultural tapestry. Check into your 4-star motel before visiting the historic Larnach Castle or the University of Otago's grand architecture.
Explore the Otago Peninsula, where you can join on a guided wildlife tour to spot native albatross, fur seals, and penguins. Enjoy a relaxed evening in one of Dunedin's cosy pubs or contemporary restaurants such as Salt, which offers great food, friendly service and a fun environment.
Stay 2 nights in Dunedin.
Day 12 - 14 Dunedin to Lake Tekapo (287km)
Drive north to Lake Tekapo, a destination famous for its stunning turquoise lake and pristine night skies. Check into your 4-star hotel before unwinding in the Tekapo Springs hot pools, a perfect way to relax with stunning mountain views.
Hike up Mount John for breathtaking panoramic views of the Mackenzie Basin or join a guided stargazing tour in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve for an unforgettable celestial experience - one of the best places in the world for stargazing.
If you're hungry for an extra special dining experience, drive to Logans at High Country Salmon (40-minutes from Lake Tekapo). This floating cafe focusses on 'glacier to plate' dining and is open for dinner five nights a week.
Stay 2 nights in Lake Tekapo.
Day 14 Lake Tekapo to Christchurch (266km)
Make your way back to Christchurch airport to return your hire car and depart home or continue your journey by exploring more of what New Zealand has to offer.
- The following product terms and conditions apply in addition to our Booking Terms and Conditions (available on our website) and terms and conditions of the relevant travel service provider.
- Prices quoted valid for sale until 31 May 2025 for travel during the period specified (if applicable) unless otherwise stated or sold out prior.
- Advertised price includes bonus nights and/or stated saving (if applicable).
- Additional supplier conditions and travel restrictions may apply. Please enquire for further details.
- Airfare (including internal flights) is not included unless otherwise stated and, if included, is economy class unless otherwise stated.
- Components of the total price including local payments, "resort fees", "national park fees", "trip kitties" and food funds (if applicable) may be payable direct to the supplier on arrival or to your travel consultant prior to your departure. Where applicable, these payments are included in the total price quoted.
- Gratuities are not included unless otherwise stated.
- Prices shown are fully inclusive of taxes, levies and government charges current at the time of publication.
- Additional levies, government charges & other applicable fees, including additional taxes, surcharges and visa fees specific to your departure date or flight routing, may apply and are beyond our control.
- Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply depending on date of travel.
- Prices shown are for payments made by cash in store or by BPAY.
- Payments made in store by credit card will incur a surcharge (see Booking Terms and Conditions for further details).
- Prices quoted are based on cheapest available at time of advertising and may be higher depending on date of purchase and date of travel. Please enquire for further details..
- Additional supplier conditions and travel restrictions may apply.
- Please enquire for further details.
- We receive payment from third party travel service providers when you use us to book travel and travel-related products and services with them on your behalf.
- Our liability to you is limited in certain situations, and we may charge you a cancellation fee(s) in certain circumstances. See our booking terms and conditions for further details.
- We may provide your personal information to third parties, including travel service providers with whom you make a booking. See our privacy policy for further details.
Why choose Flight Centre?
Not only do we have an incredible, worldwide team with decades of experience and a genuine passion for travel, we also have the widest choice of travel options covering tours, cruises, holiday packages and more. Flight Centre gives you free holiday planning and personalised service, Interest Free* Holiday Finance so you can book now, pay later, and 24/7 worldwide customer care on 133 133.