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17-Day New Zealand: North & South Island Self-Drive Tour
New Zealand
17 days
Difficulty:Easy
Trip Type:Comfort
Group size:9
4.9Highlights
Experience the ultimate New Zealand road trip on this 17-day North & South Island self-drive adventure. Start in Queenstown, cruise the spectacular Milford Sound, explore ancient glaciers, cross to the capital Wellington, visit Hobbiton and Waitomo’s glowworm caves, and unwind along pristine beaches and vineyards in the subtropical north - all at your own pace, with unforgettable scenery every step of the way.
Highlights:
• Cruise the legendary Milford Sound with towering fjords and waterfalls
• Explore Franz Josef Glacier — ancient ice set in lush rainforest
• Walk through film history at the Hobbiton Movie Set
• Discover the magical Waitomo Glowworm Caves
• Relax on Waiheke Island — vineyards, beaches & scenic views
• Enjoy a scenic self-drive across both New Zealand islands
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Itinerary
17-Day New Zealand: North & South Island Self-Drive Tour
DAY 1
Arrival In Queenstown - 11/18/25
DAY 2
Glenorchy & Paradise Region - 11/19/25
DAY 3
Milford Sound Premium Small-Group Tour - 11/20/25
Transfers
Only Ferry: Picton → Wellington – Passenger Fare & Premium Lounge (9:30 am – 1:00 pm)
Accommodation
Lodging at various hotels, guesthouses, or other types of accommodation during the trip.
Airport transfer
Transportation from and to Airport
Some meals
Selected meals provided as part of the tour package, which may include breakfast, lunch, or dinner on certain days, as specified in the itinerary.
What's not included
Alcoholic beverages
Costs for any alcoholic drinks consumed during the trip.
Flights
All the flight charges required for your adventure.
Gratuities
All the guide gratuities throughout your adventure.
Visas
Required Visa fees for your travel.
Travel insurance
Travel insurance from a trusted provider for your adventure.
Transportation
Self-drive vehicle (arranged by traveler; not included in package price)
Day 1 - 4
5-Star Stay in Queenstown: The Rees Hotel/ Similar, 2 Rooms
Day 5
Apartment Stay in Wanaka: Lakeside Apartments, 2 deluxe Bedrooms
Day 6
4-Star Hotel in Franz Josef: Rainforest Retreat, 2 Bebroom Spa Tree House
Day 7
4-Star Hotel in Picton: Edit Picton / Similar, 2 Rooms
Day 8
4-Star Hotel in Wellington: Rydges Wellington / Similar, 2 City View Rooms
Day 9
4-Star Hotel in Tauranga: Trinity Wharf Tauranga / Similar, 2 Urban Balcony Rooms
Day 10 & 11
5-Star Hotel in Cambridge: The Clements Hotel / Similar: 2 Deluxe Rooms
Day 12
Apartment Hotel in Tairua: Pacifix Harbour Villas / Similar, 2 Rooms
Day 13
4-Star Hotel in Auckland: M Social Auckland/ Similar, 2 Social View Rooms
Day 14
5-Star Hotel in Karikari Peninsula: Carrington Estate / Similar: 2 Lodge Standard Rooms
Day 15 & 16
4-Star Hotel in Auckland: M Social Auckland / Similar, 2 Social View Rooms
Departure Dates
from $4590 /person
Private groups
FAQs
Why Book With Us?
All-Inclusive Packages
Enjoy hassle-free travel with end-to-end, pre-planned trip packages that cover accommodations, meals, guides, permits, and more.
Trip Preparation
We provide essential resources like gear lists and training plans to ensure you're fully prepared for your adventure. Our goal is to equip you with everything you need to embark on your trip with confidence.
Local Guides
Our experts carefully handpick local guiding companies, who undergo a rigorous vetting process. Local guides enrich your journey with unique insights and expertise.
Sustainable Travel
We are committed to preserving our planet by encouraging our guiding partners and travelers to adopt eco-friendly practices. All tours are designed to benefit local communities.
Adventure together
Invite your friends and family on your adventure:
$4590
/ person