Experience New Zealand’s South Island on a 12-day self-drive from Christchurch to Aoraki Mt Cook, Dunedin, Te Anau, Queenstown, and Franz Josef. Enjoy lakes, wildlife, alpine roads, wine tasting, and glacier country before returning to Christchurch.
Experience New Zealand’s South Island on a 12-day self-drive from Christchurch to Aoraki Mt Cook, Dunedin, Te Anau, Queenstown, and Franz Josef. Enjoy lakes, wildlife, alpine roads, wine tasting, and glacier country before returning to Christchurch.
12 Day / 11 Night Tour
$1,799
76+ Booked
12 Day / 11 Night Tour
$1,799
76+ Booked
Arrive in Christchurch and collect your rental car. Explore at your pace—stroll the Botanic Gardens, browse Riverside Market, or relax along the Avon River. Enjoy the rest of the day discovering the Garden City’s mix of heritage and modern charm.
Overnight in Christchurch.
Breakfast at hotel. Drive across the Canterbury Plains through towns like Geraldine and Fairlie. Stop at Lake Tekapo and the Church of the Good Shepherd before continuing to Lake Pukaki and Aoraki/Mt Cook Village, surrounded by dramatic alpine scenery.
Drive: 330 km / 4.5 hrs
Optional: Glacier Explorers
Overnight in Mt Cook.
Breakfast not included. Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre before driving south through Mackenzie Country and along the Waitaki River. Stop in Oamaru’s Victorian precinct or see the Moeraki Boulders. Continue to Dunedin, known for Scottish heritage and historic charm.
Drive: 320 km / 4.5 hrs
Included: Hillary Alpine Centre
Overnight in Dunedin.
Breakfast at hotel. Explore the Otago Peninsula on a guided wildlife experience with lookouts for seabirds, seals, and penguins. Return to Dunedin for free time to enjoy cafés, shops, and historic landmarks.
Drive: 60 km return / 1.5 hrs
Included: Penguin Tour with The Opera
Overnight in Dunedin.
Breakfast at hotel. Travel south toward Te Anau via either the rugged Catlins coast—known for waterfalls and viewpoints—or the inland highway through tranquil farmland. Arrive in Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park.
Drive: 395 km / 6.5 hrs
Overnight in Te Anau.
Breakfast at hotel. Drive the scenic Milford Road past Mirror Lakes, Eglinton Valley, and through the Homer Tunnel. Board your Pure Milford Cruise to see waterfalls, Mitre Peak, and wildlife while enjoying a picnic lunch. Return to Te Anau at your own pace.
Drive: 240 km return / 4.5 hrs
Included: Milford Cruise + picnic
Overnight in Te Anau.
Breakfast at hotel. Travel north through rolling countryside toward Lake Wakatipu, following its shoreline into Queenstown. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure—walk the lakefront, browse shops, or relax in scenic cafés.
Drive: 170 km / 2.5 hrs
Overnight in Queenstown.
Breakfast at hotel. Self-drive to Gibbston Valley for the Prestige Wine Experience: private film, sparkling wine, premium tasting in the Wine Cave, vineyard tour, and a 2-course lunch with pairings. Return to Queenstown for free time.
Drive: 50 km return / 45 mins
Included: Prestige Wine Experience
Overnight in Queenstown.
Breakfast at hotel. Drive over the Crown Range to Wanaka, then continue past Lake Hawea and through the Haast Pass. Stop at the Blue Pools before following the wild West Coast to Franz Josef.
Drive: 350 km / 5.5 hrs
Overnight in Franz Josef.
Breakfast at hotel. Explore Glacier Country—walk to glacier viewpoints, relax in hot pools, or join guided adventures. Optional helicopter flights offer dramatic views of Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.
Minimal local driving
Optional: Twin Glacier Flight or Heli Ice Climb
Overnight in Franz Josef.
Breakfast at hotel. Drive back across Haast Pass, through Wanaka and Cromwell, then over the Lindis Pass into Mackenzie Country. Stop at Lakes Pukaki and Tekapo before arriving in Christchurch by evening.
Drive: 450 km / 7 hrs
Overnight in Christchurch.
Breakfast at hotel. Enjoy a relaxed morning—visit the Botanic Gardens, explore Riverside Market, or stroll the city centre. Return your rental car before your flight.
Drive: 10 km / 20 mins
Self-Drive:
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3 days ago
The Southern Alps Signature Journey was absolutely incredible. Every destination—from Aoraki Mt Cook to Queenstown—felt breathtaking. The itinerary was clear and well-paced, making the long drives enjoyable and stress-free. Such a memorable trip.
1 week ago
I loved how much variety this route offered. Dunedin’s wildlife, Te Anau’s peaceful lakes, and the glacier region near Franz Josef were standout moments. Everything was organised so well that exploring the South Island felt effortless.
5 days ago
This 12-day journey was the perfect way to see the South Island’s best landscapes. The alpine roads, wine regions, and glacier areas were all amazing. The planning, pacing, and accommodation choices made the entire experience smooth and enjoyable.
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Hey, I’m Roman, your go-to guide at Go New Zealand Tours. If you’re seeking something off the beaten path, I’m here for you. Whether it’s exploring the hidden gems of the North Island or hiking through the Southern Alps, I’ll make sure your trip is truly unique.
Hi, I’m Micheal, your Travel Consultant at Go New Zealand Tours. I’m passionate about crafting journeys that blend excitement and relaxation. Whether you’re after a thrilling adventure in Queenstown or a peaceful retreat in Lake Tekapo, I’ll make it happen.
I’m Shaun, and I’m all about creating the perfect balance between adventure and culture. From discovering the wild beauty of Fiordland to soaking in the rich Māori heritage in Rotorua, I’ll design a journey that speaks to your spirit of exploration.
Hi, I’m Maria! If you love rich history and vibrant culture, I’m your consultant. I’ll curate a trip that takes you from the iconic Hobbiton to the lively streets of Wellington, with plenty of authentic Kiwi experiences along the way.
Hey, I’m Mike. I’ve got a knack for designing laid-back yet exciting trips. If you’re looking to cruise through the Bay of Islands or enjoy a scenic coach tour to Rotorua, I’ll create an easy-going itinerary that’s tailored to your needs.
I’m Brian, your go-to Travel Consultant at Go New Zealand Tours. I’m a big fan of the scenic routes and incredible views New Zealand offers. If you’re looking to experience jaw-dropping landscapes or adventure-packed days, I’m here to make it all come true.
I’m Adam, and I’m here to help you take your New Zealand dreams off the page and into reality. Whether you’re up for hiking the Tongariro Alpine Crossing or soaking up the culture in Auckland, I’ll create a trip that brings your vision to life.
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