Auckland to Christchurch Self Drive

BM-47178

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12 daysDuration

Independent TourPrivate tour for one or two travelers

2 peopleMaximum group size

8 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Relaxed

Minimal physical effort, perfect for travelers seeking an easy-going experience.

Starts

Ends

Auckland, New Zealand

Christchurch, New Zealand

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Best price guaranteedNo credit card or booking fees.Carbon neutral tours.

1 other person is considering this tour right now.

Highlights

Explore vibrant Auckland with stunning harbours, beaches, and scenic coastal views

Experience Rotoruas geothermal wonders and immerse in rich Mori cultural heritage

Discover Christchurch, the Garden City, blending heritage charm with modern attractions

Marvel at Aoraki Mount Cook and its spectacular turquoise glacial lakes scenery

Enjoy Queenstown, the adventure capital, surrounded by dramatic alpine mountain landscapes

Witness diverse landscapes enroute to Fox Glacier, from alpine passes to rainforests

Itinerary

From Auckland’s bustling harbors to the awe-inspiring peaks of the Southern Alps, the "Auckland to Christchurch Self Drive" trip invites experienced travelers to craft their own 13-day New Zealand odyssey. This relaxed-paced self-guided tour package offers the freedom of vehicle rental, comprehensive accommodation, and a thoughtfully designed route showcasing the country’s most celebrated locations—from Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes to the adventure capital of Queenstown.

Begin your journey in Auckland, soaking in urban vibrance and panoramic coastal views before heading south to Rotorua, where bubbling mud pools and Maori traditions create a captivating tapestry of culture and nature. Marvel at the thunderous Huka Falls near Lake Taupo, then steer towards Wellington, New Zealand’s cultural heart, for a taste of its lively arts scene and renowned culinary offerings.

A highlight awaits as you ferry across the scenic Marlborough Sounds to Picton, where rugged coastlines merge with sparkling waters. Wildlife enthusiasts will relish the Kaikoura Coast, famed for whale watching and marine encounters, before the journey continues to Christchurch’s revitalized cityscape. The itinerary then winds through the dramatic Southern Alps, with time to absorb the majesty of Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park’s glacial vistas.

Queenstown delivers a vibrant finale, blending adrenaline-fueled possibilities with lakeside serenity. The adventure peaks with a scenic drive over the Crown Range to the imposing Fox Glacier, offering a last taste of New Zealand’s untamed beauty.

The unique appeal of this tour lies in its seamless fusion of city exploration, natural marvels, and the flexibility of independent travel—ideal for those who want every moment to be their own. With every day designed for discovery, this self-drive tour package promises both adventure and unforgettable landscapes at your own pace.

day 1Auckland (arrival)

Welcome to New Zealand! Upon arrival at the Auckland International Airport, collect your rental car at the airport, and explore the city of Auckland, New Zealand's self-proclaimed \"City of Sails\", which also happens to be the country's largest metro area. Resting between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this urban paradise has something for everyone. Surrounded by native bush, rainforests and an abundance of beaches, Auckland is a playground for both the city savvy and those with an eye for adventure. Explore the central museums and galleries on foot or take a drive through one of over 28 regional National Parks to see deserted beaches, waterfalls and native forest.
Overnight in Auckland

day 2Auckland

day 3Auckland - Waikato - Rotorua

day 4Rotorua

day 5Rotorua – Christchurch (by Flight)

day 6Christchurch - Aoraki Mt Cook National Park

day 7Aoraki Mt Cook National Park - Queenstown

day 8Queenstown

day 9Queenstown

day 10Queenstown - Fox Glacier

day 11Fox Glacier - Christchurch

day 12Christchurch - (departure)

What's Included

Accommodation

11 Nights accommodation on twin sharing basis at superior hotels or similar

Meals

Daily buffet breakfast

Others

Car rental for 4days including:Pick up at Auckland International Airport and drop off at Rotorua AirportRental car type: Automatic transmission (Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid or similar)Unlimited mileageTheft Protection. Unwaivable charges may applyCollision Damage Waiver Reduction (CDW). Unwaivable charges may applyCar rental for 7 days including:Pick up and drop off at Christchurch International AirportRental car type: Automatic transmission (Toyota Corolla or similar) including:Unlimited mileageTheft Protection. Unwaivable charges may applyCollision Damage Waiver Reduction (CDW). Unwaivable charges may applyDomestic Airfare (Rotorua Christchurch)All local applicable taxes

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Request a Private, Customizable Departure

By design, this is a group tour. You can however request a private, customized version of this tour for yourself or your private group of people. Private departures are usually more expensive, but come with these benefits:

Personal

Itinerary can be tweaked and customized.

Professional

Access our Travel Specialists' insider knowledge.

Privacy

Enjoy a tour focused solely on you or your travel group.

Protected

Travel within your own bubble.

Request a private and/or personalized departure

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Good to Know

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