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Extended Touring > Self Drive
Self Drive
Rental car packages based on Thrifty Rentals.
Note rental cars are costed on a 24 hour basis.
Comprehensive Motor Vehicle Insurance (MVI) including third party and public liability, is included in our rates. An Accident Damage Excess (ADE) of NZD1688.00 does apply however. This excess may be reduced to NZD225.00 (at the renter's option) at the time of rental by purchasing Accident Excess Reduction (AER) at NZD21.38 per day. (Insurance costs are subject to change)
Restricted Roads
Thrifty vehicles are prohibited from the following roads:
North Island: Ninety-Mile Beach (Northland)
South Island: Skippers Canyon Road (Queenstown)
Driving on these roads constitutes a breach of the rental agreement and the renter would be fully liable for any damage to the Thrifty vehicle or Third party property occurring as a result.
Fuel is not included in our rates. Each vehicle is supplied with a full tank of fuel, which is refilled at the renter's expense on return. If the vehicle is not returned with a full tank, the renter will be charged for the fuel required to refill the tank at the prevailing rate applicable by Thrifty Car Rental at the time.
Airport/Ferry fees:
Vehicle collections from all Airport/Ferry terminals are subject to a fee of NZD16.88, to be paid at time of vehicle collection.
Note that these fees are subject to chnage.
Costs below are based on compact manual car. Toyota Corolla or similar 4 or 5 door, sedan or hatch, 1.8 litre, automatic, air conditioning, radio with CD player, air bag(s), central locking Also in this category: Mazda 3
North Island Nature - 5 day
North Island Explorer - 8 days
South Island Fiords & Nature - 8 days
South Island Vineyards, Glaciers & Lakes - 11 Days
South Island Glaciers & Queenstown - 6 days
The Grand New Zealand - 15 days
The Great New Zealand Tour - 24 days
The Spirit of New Zealand - 16 days
North Island Nature - 5 day
Booking Code: SD-01
Day 1: Arrive Auckland
On arrival at Auckland airport collect your rental car. The rest of the day is free. We recommend a visit to the Auckland War Memorial Museum and Kelly Tarltons Underwater World and Antarctic Encounter.
Stay: Auckland (1 night)
Day 2: Auckland to Coromandel Peninsula
Drive to the Coromandel Peninsula, a favoured holiday destination. Here native forests and beaches abound, the most famous being Hot Water Beach where hot water bubbles through the sand at low tides.
Stay: Coromandel Peninsula (1 night)
Day 3: Coromandel Peninsula to Rotorua
There is time this morning for further sightseeing of the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula before embarking on a leisurely drive to Rotorua - the thermal wonderland of New Zealand. The city of Tauranga and the seaside resort of Mt Maunganui are also points of interest you may want to explore today.
Stay: Rotorua (2 nights)
Day 4: At Rotorua
A free day to enjoy Rotorua and its thermal parks and Maori culture. We suggest a visit to the Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve and maybe a visit to the Polynesian Hot Pools Spa.
Day 5: Rotorua to Auckland
A visit to Waitomo Glow-worm Caves is recommended en route back to Auckland.
Stay: Auckland (1 night)
Day 6: Depart Auckland
Today return your car to Auckland Airport or city depot where your tour ends.
NORTH ISLAND NATURE - Booking Code: SD-01
* Cost NZD703.00 per person share twin. Single room supplement NZD639.00
* Prices based on 2 persons travelling together
* Prices based on 1.6-2.0 litre car (Toyota Corolla or similar manual 5 door
hatchback or 4 door sedan) and Budget Hotel accommodation (room only basis)
* Rates includes unlimited kms and insurance. An insurance excess applies.
* Costs do not include international or domestic airfares
Please contact Southern World New Zealand if you require prices for Motels, First Class or Superior hotel accommodation, meals and/or larger cars or for further information or to book.
North Island Explorer - 8 days
Booking Code: SD-02
Day 1: Arrive Auckland
On arrival at Auckland airport collect your rental car. The rest of the day is free. Highlights include the Skytower, Kelly Tarlton's Underwater World, the Auckland War Museum and the viaduct harbour.
Stay: Auckland (1 night)
Day 2: Auckland to the Bay of Islands
Travel northwards to the Bay and Islands and we suggest a visit to the Matakohe Museum and Waipoua Kauri Forest en route where you can view the largest native Kauri trees in New Zealand.
Stay: Paihia (2 nights)
Day 3: Bay of Islands
Today is a free day to explore this beautiful region. A visit to Cape Reinga and cruises of the Bays that include 'swimming with dolphins" options are also highlights of this region. Or you may simply choose to relax on one of the many beautiful beaches.
Day 4: Bay of Islands to Rotorua
Travel south via Auckland to Rotorua, the centre of New Zealand's Maori Culture providing numerous opportunities to learn more about New Zealand's indigenous people.
Stay: Rotorua (2 nights)
Day 5: At Rotorua
Today is a free day in Rotorua. Optional activities include trout fishing, thermal park visits, Maori cultural performances and much more.
Day 6: Rotorua to Napier
Visit Lake Taupo en route to Napier, renowned for it's art deco furniture. There are many excellent wineries in the region, which are open each day for visit or meals. For nature lovers we suggest a visit to the Gannet Colony.
Stay: Napier (1 night)
Day 7: Napier to Wellington
Travel south to the capital city of Wellington where we suggest a visit to Te Papa National Museum to learn more about New Zealand, our culture and landscape.
Stay: Wellington (1 night)
Day 8: Depart Wellington
Your arrangements finish this morning when you return your rental car at the city or airport depot.
NORTH ISLAND EXPLORER - Booking Code: SD-02
* Cost NZD908.00 per person share twin. Single room supplement NZD828.00
* Prices based on 2 persons travelling together
* Prices based on 1.6-2.0 litre car (Toyota Corolla or similar manual 5 door
hatchback or 4 door sedan) and Budget Hotel accommodation (room only basis)
* Rates includes unlimited kms and insurance. An insurance excess applies.
* Costs do not include international or domestic airfares
Please contact Southern World New Zealand if you require prices for Motels, First Class or Superior hotel accommodation, meals and/or larger cars or for further information or to book.
South Island Fiords & Nature - 8 days
Booking Code: SD-10
Day 1: Arrive Christchurch
On arrival at Christchurch airport collect your rental car. The rest of the day is free to relax in the "Garden City" - stroll along the banks of the River Avon, visit the Arts, Centre, Canterbury Museum or enjoy the excellent shopping, cafes and restaurants.
Stay: Christchurch (1 night)
Day 2: Christchurch - Dunedin
Today's drive is along the eastern coast of the South Island passing through the regional towns of Timaru and Oamaru and offering views of the dramatic coastline and surf. Dunedin is a city of Scottish heritage, illustrated by striking Edwardian and Victorian architecture. It is also one of the country's largest university centres. We suggest a visit to the unique Moeraki Boulder Beach en route.
Stay: Dunedin (2 nights)
Day 3: Dunedin
This morning is free to explore the city. We suggest a visit to historic Olveston House or the Speights Brewery, famous for it's southern ale. This afternoon you will visit the Royal Albatross Colony located on Otago Peninsula followed by a cruise where you will view seal and shag colonies and many other seabirds and sea life.
Day 4: Dunedin - Te Anau
Travel through the fertile farmlands of the Otago and Southland provinces. Arrive at Lake Te Anau, the gateway to the World Heritage Fiordland National Park. This evening a visit to the Te Anau Glow-worm Caves is included.
Stay: Te Anau (2 nights)
Day 5: Milford Sound Day Trip
Depart Te Anau and follow the Hollyford Valley through beautiful beech forest. Pass through the Homer Tunnel and descend into Milford Sound where you will board a Real Journeys luxury vessel for a cruise of the full length on Milford Sound to Tasman sea. The vessel provides excellent viewing and there is plenty of time available to enjoy the waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife. A comprehensive commentary is provided throughout the cruise. Following the cruise travel back to Te Anau.
Day 6: Te Anau - Queenstown
After breakfast disembark from the Milford Mariner and travel to Queenstown, New Zealand's adventure capital. Activities include fishing, whitewater rafting, bungy jumping, lake cruises or simply relaxing.
Stay: Queenstown (2 nights)
Day 7: Queenstown
Today is a free day in Queenstown. Optional activities available in this region include bungy jumping, jetboat rides, lake cruises, white water rafting, snow skiing (in winter only), golf, shopping and much more.
Day 8: Queenstown - Christchurch
Travel through the Kawarau Gorge, a gold mining region in the 1860's and through the MacKenzie Country to Lakes Pukaki and Tekapo. Descend onto the Canterbury Plains and continue to Christchurch where your tour ends.
(There is an option to end your tour in Queenstown if preferred.)
SOUTHERN NEW ZEALAND - FIORDS & NATURE - Booking Code: SD-10
* Cost NZD1081.00 per person share twin. Single room supplement NZD802.00
* Prices based on 2 persons travelling together
* Prices based on 1.6-2.0 litre car (Toyota Corolla or similar manual 5 door
hatchback or 4 door sedan) and Budget Hotel accommodation (room only basis)
* Rates includes unlimited kms and insurance. An insurance excess applies.
* Costs do not include international or domestic airfares
Please contact Southern World New Zealand if you require prices for Motels, First Class or Superior hotel accommodation, meals and/or larger cars or for further information or to book.
South Island Vineyards, Glaciers & Lakes - 11 Days
Booking Code: SD-04
Day 1: Arrive Christchurch
On arrival collect your car at the airport. The day is free for optional activities. A visit to the Antarctic Centre is recommended.
Stay: Christchurch (1 night)
Day 2: Christchurch to Blenheim
Journey northwards to the seaside town of Kaikoura where a Whalewatch cruise is recommended. Continue onto Blenheim, New Zealand's leading wine region. Many wineries are open for daily visits and offer excellent restaurants.
Stay: Blenheim (1 night)
Day 3: Blenheim to Nelson
A short drive through vineyards and farmlands to Nelson which is located close to the Abel Tasman National Park where many walks are available.
Stay: Nelson (1 night)
Day 4: Nelson to Greymouth
Depart Nelson and travel through spectacular forests and coastlines to Greymouth. A stop at Punakaiki is recommended to view the Pancake Rocks.
Stay: Greymouth (1 night)
Day 5: Greymouth to Franz Josef
Travel south to the Westland National Park and enjoy spectacular scenery. Many excellent short bush walks are available en route.
Stay: Franz Josef Glacier (1 night)
Day 6: Franz Josef to Queenstown
A drive up to the viewing area of the Fox Glacier is recommended as you travel south and through the Haast Pass to Queenstown.
Stay: Queenstown (2 nights)
Day 7 & 8: Queenstown
Two free days in Queenstown. Optional activities available in this region include Milford or Doubtful Sound day trip, bungy jumping, jetboat rides, lake cruises, white water rafting, golf, shopping and much more.
Day 9: Queenstown to Twizel/Omarama
Journey through the highlands of the South Island to Mount Cook National Park where sightseeing flights and short alpine walks are available. Return to the village of Twizel or Omarama for an overnight stay.
Stay: Twizel or Omarama (1 night)
Day 10: Twizel/Omarama to Christchurch
Travel by Lakes Pukaki and Tekapo and then cross the Canterbury Plains to Christchurch.
Stay: Christchurch (1 night)
Day 11: Depart Christchurch
Your arrangements finish this morning when you return your car to the rental car Depot. Haere Ra.
SOUTH ISLAND - VINEYARDS, GLACIERS & LAKES - Booking Code: SD-04
* Cost NZD1419.00 per person share twin. Single room supplement NZD1263.00
* Prices based on 2 persons travelling together
* Prices based on 1.6-2.0 litre car (Toyota Corolla or similar manual 5 door
hatchback or 4 door sedan) and Budget Hotel accommodation (room only basis)
* Rates includes unlimited kms and insurance. An insurance excess applies.
* Costs do not include international or domestic airfares
Please contact Southern World New Zealand if you require prices for Motels, First Class or Superior hotel accommodation, meals and/or larger cars or for further information or to book.
South Island Glaciers & Queenstown - 6 days
Booking Code: SD-09
Day 1: Arrive Christchurch
Welcome to Christchurch, the "Garden City". On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel. This elegant city offers an extensive array of attractions, including the International Antarctic Centre, the Arts Centre and Canterbury Museum. A ride on the historic tramcar around the city centre is also recommended.
Stay: Christchurch (1 night)
Day 2: Christchurch - Fox Glacier
You will be transferred to the Railway Station where you will board the famous Tranzalpine Express and travel across the Canterbury Plains and through spectacular gorges and the Southern Alps to the rainforests of the West Coast. On arrival at Greymouth you will collect your rental car and continue onto Fox Glacier and the Westland National Park.
Stay: Fox Glacier (2 nights)
Day 3: Fox Glacier
This morning you will enjoy a guided Glacier Walk to the Fox Glacier where you will don special boots for a walk on the ice. The rest of the day is free for optional walks or sightseeing and scenic flights are also available to view the surrounding alps.
Day 4: Fox Glacier - Queenstown
Today the scenery changes dramatically as you journey through the Haast Pass to the high-country grasslands of Otago. Pass by Lakes Hawea and Wanaka before arriving in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand.
Stay: Queenstown (2 nights)
Day 5: Queenstown
Today is free to enjoy Queenstown at tour own leisure. This region offers outdoor activities ranging from trout fishing to paragliding, whitewater rafting to bungy jumping. Or you may choose to simply relax and enjoy the excellent shopping, cafes and spectacular surroundings.
Day 6: Depart Queenstown
There will be more time today for optional sightseeing before your tour ends at Queenstown Airport or en route to another destination.
SOUTH ISLAND - GLACIERS & QUEENSTOWN - Booking Code: SD-09
* Cost NZD965.00 per person share twin. Single room supplement NZD666.00
* Prices based on 2 persons travelling together
* Prices based on 1.6-2.0 litre car (Toyota Corolla or similar manual 5 door
hatchback or 4 door sedan) and Budget Hotel accommodation (room only basis)
* Rates includes unlimited kms and insurance. An insurance excess applies.
* Costs do not include international or domestic airfares
Please contact Southern World New Zealand if you require prices for Motels, First Class or Superior hotel accommodation, meals and/or larger cars or for further information or to book.
The Grand New Zealand - 15 days
Booking Code: SD-11
Day 1: Arrive Auckland
On arrival at Auckland airport collect your rental car. The remainder of your day is free to enjoy the 'City of Sails'. Auckland's highlights include the city's Skytower, the sparkling harbour, Kelly Tarlton's Underwater World and the America's Cup Yacht Marina.
Stay: Auckland (1 night)
Day 2: Auckland - Rotorua
Drive through the city of Hamilton en route to Rotorua. You may wish to visit the Glow-worm Caves at Waitomo which would add a few hours to your travelling day.
Stay: Rotorua (2 nights)
Day 3: At Rotorua
A free day to enjoy Rotorua and it's thermal parks and Maori culture. We suggest a visit to the Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve and maybe a visit to the Polynesian Hot Pools Spa.
Day 4: Rotorua - Tongariro National Park
Pass through Taupo on your way south where you will enter the Desert Road and the Tongariro National Park. Stay overnight in the midst of the park where many alpine walks are available.
Stay: National Park (1 night)
Day 5: Tongariro National Park - Wellington
Continue your journey through farmlands to New Zealand's capital city - Wellington. We suggest a visit to our national museum - Te Papa.
Stay: Wellington (1 night)
Day 6: Wellington - Nelson
Cross Cook Strait, the channel of water that separates New Zealand's two islands and arrive in the picturesque village of Picton. Collect your South Island car and journey through vineyards and farming countryside to Nelson, considered New Zealand's sunniest destination.
Stay: Nelson (2 nights)
Day 7: At Nelson
A free day to enjoy this region. We suggest a visit to the Abel Tasman Park, sea kayaking with one of the many kayaking operators in the region, or a visit to the Wearable Arts Museum, and Arts and Crafts outlets.
Day 8: Nelson - Greymouth
Continue down the West Coast along dramatic countryside and coastlines. We suggest a stop at the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks en route. Overnight in Greymouth.
Stay: Greymouth (1 night)
Day 9: Greymouth - Franz Josef
Pass through the township of Hokitika and enter the lush rain forest of Southern Westland. Once you have arrived at Franz Josef you may chose to take a walk along the marked tracks to the face of the glacier. Scenic flights are also available.
Stay: Franz Josef (1 night)
Day 10: Franz Josef Glacier - Queenstown
Today the scenery changes dramatically as you journey through the Haast Pass to the high-country grasslands of Otago. Pass by Lakes Hawea and Wanaka before arriving in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand.
Stay: Queenstown (2 nights)
Day 11: At Queenstown
Today is a free day in Queenstown. Optional activities available in this region include bungy jumping, jetboat rides, lake cruises, white water rafting, golf, shopping and much more.
Day 12: Queenstown - Milford Sound - Te Anau
Drive through Fiordland National Park and the Homer Tunnel to Milford where you will join a cruise on the fiord. View towering peaks rising from the sea floor and tumbling waterfalls. Return to Te Anau in the afternoon.
Stay: Te Anau (1 night)
Day 13: Te Anau - Mount Cook Region
Today's relaxed drive will take you through the high country region of North Otago to the township of Twizel where you will stay overnight. We suggest a visit to Mount Cook National Park today.
Stay: Twizel (1 night)
Day 14: Mount Cook Region - Christchurch
Drive through the MacKenzie Country where you will view Lakes Pukaki and Tekapo, before descending onto the South Canterbury foothills and the towns of Fairlie and Geraldine. Continue on across the Canterbury Plains to the city of Christchurch. This elegant city offers an extensive array of attractions including the International Antarctic Centre and Canterbury Museum.
Stay: Christchurch (1 night)
Day 15: Depart Christchurch
Your tour finishes this morning when you return your car to the rental car depot in the city or at the airport.
GRAND NEW ZEALAND - Booking Code: SD-11
* Cost NZD2017.00 per person share twin. Single room supplement NZD1680.00
* Prices based on 2 persons travelling together
* Prices based on 1.6-2.0 litre car (Toyota Corolla or similar manual 5 door hatchback or 4 door sedan) and
Budget Hotel accommodation (room only basis)
* Rates includes unlimited kms and insurance. An insurance excess applies.
* Costs do not include international or domestic airfares
Please contact Southern World New Zealand if you require prices for Motels, First Class or Superior hotel accommodation, meals and/or larger cars or for further information or to book.
The Great New Zealand Tour - 24 days
Booking Code: SD24
Day 1: Arrive Christchurch
Welcome to Christchurch. On arrival into Christchurch you will be transferred to your hotel.
Stay: Christchurch (1 night)
Day 2: Christchurch - Greymouth - Franz Josef
Transfer to Christchurch railway station.
The TranzAlpine is world renowned as "The Great New Zealand Rail Adventure". Crossing the huge and fertile patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains, The TranzAlpine winds its way over massive viaducts, through spectacular gorges and river valleys to the settlement of Arthur's Pass. The pass, built by pick and shovel and completed in 1866, is named after Arthur Dudley who discovered it in 1864. Then track slowly under the country's greatest mountain range, the Southern Alps. Following rivers and skirting lakes, it descends through lush beech forest to the Tasman Sea and the town of Greymouth.
Pick up rental car at Greymouth railway station and self drive to Franz Josef.
Stay: Franz Josef (2 nights)
Day 3: Franz Josef to Lake Wanaka
There is time this morning to explore the glacier before departing for Wanaka. You will travel through Haast Junction where scenic helicopter flights are available with Heliventures.Continue on through the Haast Pass and spectacular bushland to the head of Lake Wanaka where you Will follow the lake edge to the township of Wanaka.
Stay: Wanaka (2 nights)
Day 4: Wanaka
Today is free to enjoy Wanaka. We recommend a stroll alongside the Lakeside to view the special plagues that form the walkway depicting major events that have occurred since AD01. There is also an excellent walkway alongside the lake that offers spectacular views of the lake and mountains. The Warbirds Museum and Puzzleword are also highly recommended.
Day 5: Wanaka - Dunedin
Drive along the shores of Lake Dunstan to Cromwell, continue on through the rich fruit producing regions of central Otago before arriving in Dunedin.
Stay: Dunedin (1 night)
Day 6: Dunedin - Te Anau
This morning is free to explore this Scottish city. A great option is to drive out to the Otago Peninsula. In the afternoon make your way to Te Anau.
Stay: Te Anau (2 nights)
Day 7: Doubtful Sound Day Tour
Today you will enjoy an excursion to this secluded soun which is an Unspoilt and remote wilderness of many moods: one minute clear, blue And sun-drenched, the next mysterious and mist-shrouded. Your day Adventure befings as you cruise across Lake Manapouri. Here you will board a coach and travel over Wilmot pass before arriving at Deep Cove where you will join the catamaran for a 3 hour cruise. Bottlenose Dolphins are often seen alongside the vessel, fur seals on the rocks and at times rare penguins may be observed. Picnic lunch included.
Day 8: Te Anau - Milford Sound - Queenstown
Todays drive brings you to Milford Sound. A cruise on the Sound provides an opportunity to view sheer rock walls and waterfalls, rising over 5,000 ft above the sea level. Return via Te Anau to Queenstown.
Stay: Queenstown (3 nights)
Day 9: Queenstown
Today is free to explore this alpine resort.
Day 10: Queenstown
Another free day in Queenstown.
Day 11: Queenstown - Lake Tekapo
Depart Queenstown via the Kawarau Gorge and traverse the Lindis Pass before reaching the MacKenzie Country with its vast expanses of tussock, bordered by the snow capped Southern Alps.
Stay: Lake Tekapo (1 night)
Day 12: Lake Tekapo - Christchurch
Time allows for a leisurely morning before driving through Burke's Pass and out on to the Canterbury Plains enroute to Christchurch.
Stay: Christchurch (1 night)
Day 13: Christchurch - Kaikoura
Self drive to Kaikoura. This afternoon we recommend that you take the whale watch cruise (own expense)
Stay: Kaikoura (1 night)
Day 14: Kaikoura - Wellington
Travel to Picton. Drop off car at the ferry terminal. Cross the Cook Strait on the Interislander ferry to Wellington. Your North Island hire will be waiting for you at the Wellington ferry depot.
Stay: Wellington (2 nights)
Day 15: Wellington
Today is free to explore New Zealand's Capital City. We recommend a visit to Te Papa, New Zealand's National Museum. Guided tours are also available through Parliament Buildings.
Day 16: Wellington - Napier
Today journey north over the Rimutaka Ranges to the Wairarapa. Continue north to the Hawkes Bay with its Art Deco buildings and dramatic history.
Stay: Napier (2 nights)
Day 17: Napier
Today is free to explore the many cafes, wineries and history of the region. Naper's many attractions include the Gannet Colony, wonderful wineries, and the Heritage Museum.
Day 18: Napier - Rotorua
Today drive inland to Lake Taupo then head north through the world's largest man-made forest to the thermal city of Rotorua. A stop at Huka Falls is recommended en route.
Stay: Rotorua (2 nights)
Day 19: Rotorua
A free day at your own leisure. Rotorua's many attractions include the Agrodome - an amusing and Informative sheep show, Rainbow Nature Park, and Te Puia Thermal Reserve.
Day 20: Rotorua - Waitomo - Auckland
Travel via Waitomo to Auckland. We recommend a visit to the Waitomo caves (not included)
Stay: Auckland (1 night)
Day 21: Auckland - Bay of Islands
Drive north over the Auckland Harbour Bridge through the northern suburbs before reaching the beautiful beaches of the Hibiscus Coast and onto Paihia in the Bay of Islands.
Stay: Paihia (2 nights)
Day 22: Bay of Islands
Free day. Cape Brett Walkways offer some excellent options for walks on one of the local islands. Salt Air operate a popular half day flight and 4WD trip to Cape Reinga. Carino Sail boats have a Sunset cruise in summer evenings.
Day 23: Bay of Islands - Auckland
Today enjoy a leisurely drive back to Auckland.
Stay: Auckland (1 night)
Day 24: Depart Auckland
Drop off rental car
GREAT NEW ZEALAND - Booking Code: SD-24
* Cost NZD3462.00 per person share twin. Single room supplement NZD2615.00
* Prices based on 2 persons travelling together
* Prices based on 1.6-2.0 litre car (Toyota Corolla or similar manual 5 door
hatchback or 4 door sedan) and Budget Hotel accommodation (room only basis)
* Rates includes unlimited kms and insurance. An insurance excess applies.
* Costs do not include international or domestic airfares
Please contact Southern World New Zealand if you require prices for Motels, First Class or Superior hotel accommodation, meals and/or larger cars or for further information or to book.
The Spirit of New Zealand - 16 days
Booking Code:SD16
Day 1: Arrive Christchurch
Welcome to Christchurch. On arrival into Christchurch you will be transferred to your hotel.
Stay: Christchurch (1 night)
Day 2: Christchurch - Greymouth - Franz Josef
Transfer to Christchurch railway station. The TranzAlpine is world renowned as "The Great New Zealand Rail Adventure". Crossing the huge and fertile patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains, The TranzAlpine winds its way over massive viaducts, through spectacular gorges and river valleys to the settlement of Arthur's Pass. The pass, built by pick and shovel and completed in 1866, is named after Arthur Dudley who discovered it in 1864. Then track slowly under the country's greatest mountain range, the Southern Alps. Following rivers and skirting lakes, it descends through lush beech forest to the Tasman Sea and the town of Greymouth.
Pick up rental car at Greymouth railway station and self drive to Franz Josef.
Stay: Franz Josef (1 night)
Day 3: Franz Josef - Queenstown
Today drive south past tranquil lakes, past towering mountains with cascading waterfalls. Arrive at the alpine village - Queenstown.
Stay: Queenstown (3 nights)
Day 4: Queenstown
Today is free to explore this alpine resort.
Day 5: Queenstown to Milford Sound to Te Anau
Drive through Te Anau to the Fiordland National Park and the Homer Tunnel to Milford where you will join a cruise on the fiord. View towering peaks rising from the sea floor and tumbling waterfalls. Return to Te Anau in the afternoon.
Day 6: Te Anau - Dunedin
Leave Te Anau and drive through farmland and tussock country and south through the Waimea Plains to Gore. Continue on through farmlands to Balclutha and north through Milton, across the Taieri River and on to the city of Dunedin.
Stay: Dunedin (1 night)
Day 7: Dunedin - Tekapo
Depart Dunedin and travel to Palmerston situated between the Pleasant and Shag Rivers close to the coast. Travel on to Oamaru, a town noted for the predominance of white stone buildings. The stone is Oamaru Stone - a white granular limestone for which the area is known. From here, turn inland and follow the Waitaki River past Lake Benmore to Omarama and then Twizel which was brought into existence for the construction of the Waitaki power scheme. Follow Lake Pukaki to the Mount Cook. After your visit to Mount Cook, continue on to Lake Tekapo for this evening.
Stay: Tekapo (1 night)
Day 8: Tekapo - Christchurch
Today drive over Burkes Pass to the small farming village of Geraldine before crossing the Canterbury Plains, to Christchurch.
Stay: Christchurch (1 night)
Day 9: Christchurch - Picton - Wellington
From Christchurch, travel into the rolling countryside of North Canterbury, noted for sheep and cattle farming. After crossing the Hundalee Hills, enter the Marlborough Province where there are panoramic sea views along the Kaikoura Coast before turning inland to the hilly sheep country around the provincial capital of Blenheim. From here it is just 28 kilometres to the town of Picton.
Drop off rental car.
Board the Interislander ferry to Wellington.
On arrival into Wellington pick up North Island rental car.
Stay: Wellington (2 nights)
Day 10: Wellington
Today is free to explore New Zealand's capital city with its harbour, Parliament buildings and the Museum of New Zealand - Te Papa.
Day 11: Wellington - Mt Ruapehu
Journey north to the Volcanic Plateau in the centre of the island, skirt Mt Ruapehu to Whakapapa village located at its western foot.
Stay: National Park (1 night)
Day 12: Mt Ruapehu - Taupo
Take some time to explore this unique alpine region before driving to Lake Taupo.
Stay: Lake Taupo (1 night)
Day 13: Taupo - Rotorua
After exploring Tauo drive north through the world's largest man made forest to the thermal city of Rotorua.
Stay: Rotorua (2 nights)
Day 14: Rotorua
Free day to explore the thermal areas.
Day 15: Rotorua - Waitomo - Auckland
Travel via Waitomo to Auckland. We recommend a visit to the Waitomo caves (not included).
Stay: Auckland (1 night)
Day 16: Depart Auckland
Drop off car Auckland International Airport.
SPIRIT OF NEW ZEALAND Booking Code: SD-16
* Cost NZD2197.00 per person share twin. Single room supplement NZD1710.00
* Prices based on 2 persons travelling together
* Prices based on 1.6-2.0 litre car (Toyota Corolla or similar manual 5 door
hatchback or 4 door sedan) and Budget Hotel accommodation (room only basis)
* Rates includes unlimited kms and insurance. An insurance excess applies.
* Costs do not include international or domestic airfares
Please contact Southern World New Zealand if you require prices for Motels, First Class or Superior hotel accommodation, meals and/or larger cars or for further information or to book.
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