8 Day Southern Highlights Tour
This short South Island highlights tour takes you through the countryside of Canterbury, Otago, Southland and the West Coast. Along the way you’ll pass alpine lakes, enjoy views of the Southern Alps, explore the historic city of Dunedin and ride the world famous Tranz Alpine Scenic Train.
Included in this New Zealand self drive holiday
- This New Zealand holiday starts at price per person (see details)
- 8 days / 7 nights from Queenstown to Queenstown
- Accommodation is Boutique lodges & hotels (can be customised)
- A superb range of rental cars to choose from
- Rental car insurance with full coverage (variable excess/deductible)
- Unlimited kilometres, GPS navigation, airport and ferry fees
- Can be fully customised to suit you
- All breakfasts
- Private train station transfers
- Private airport transfers
- TranzAlpine Train from Greymouth to Christchurch
- Queenstown Skyline Gondola and Luge




Day 1 - Arrive into Queenstown
Private Transfer Queenstown Airport to your Accommodation
On arrival you will be met by a private driver and delivered to your Queenstown accommodation.
Itinerary information by APP & in country support
Access to our exclusive New Zealand Touring APP. The APP includes your full itinerary and reservation details, all available online and offline as well as lots of other great information such as restaurant guides, weather forecasts and local activity suggestions. Instant itinerary updates and changes are available and it's easy to keep in touch with us. The App is free and easy to download on your mobile using Android or IOS.
You also have access to our free call number and after-hours service if you require support while on tour.
Welcome to Queenstown
Renowned for its adrenaline inducing activities Queenstown is synonymous with adventure. Parked on the shores of Lake Wakatipu this small alpine town is nestled below soaring vistas of The Remarkables Mountain Range. While arguably the brightest gem in New Zealand’s crown, Queenstown offers far more than an action-packed getaway. Spend time on the Gibbston valley wine trail and end with a meal at Michelin star chef Josh Emett’s restaurant, Rata. Take a trip down memory lane on a 100 year old steamship the TSS Earnslaw. Soak in the scenery on your walk around the lake, or venture further afield into Fiordland National Park. Head over the hill to resort town Wanaka, or re-live scenes from Lord Of The Rings by four wheel drive. But - if you really do want that rush - head out on the Shotover Jet, dive off the Nevis Bungy, freefall on the Canyon swing or Zip line the Gondola. Just be sure it's done on an empty stomach – don’t say we didn’t warn you!
Skyline Gondola Queenstown and 3 Luge Rides - suggested




In the heart of Queenstown, located 450 metres above town in the Ben Lomond Scenic Reserve is the Skyline Complex. A gondola ride to the summit makes for awe-inspiring views of the city surround. Arrive at the complex and wander the outside viewing decks for a picture perfect outlook. Then onto the Luge! The 800 metre luge track offers an exhilarating journey through banked corners, tunnels and dippers.
Accommodation: The Dairy Private Hotel
Accommodation type: Boutique lodges & hotels




Accommodation features
- Check in time: 2 pm
- Check out time: 10:30 am
- Walk time to shops/restaurants: 1-2 mins
- Parking: onsite free parking
- Internet facilities: In room free access
- Includes continental breakfast
- Includes cooked breakfast
- Tea/coffee facilities in room
- Hair Dryer
- Laundry facilities: On site
- Laundry facilities: Drycleaning service available
- All rooms non smoking
Day 2 - Take the Crown Range Road to Wanaka before travelling the spectacular Haast Pass to the West Coast
Driving distance and time: 350 kms / 217 miles : 4.6 hours
Times are based on averages for this specific route and allow for stops. Use these times as guidelines and to assist in the planning for your day.
Collect your rental car




Our rental car range includes the latest vehicles from the top suppliers. Insurance is included with a small excess or deductible. All airport fees, additional driver fees and unlimited kilometres are also included. To help you navigate your way around New Zealand all rentals also come with GPS. Our range included small compact cars to mid-size saloons to large 4WD and people movers.
GPS navigation system
Use the latest GPS technology as you tour New Zealand. Your portable GPS features a simple touch screen interface with automatic route calculation and turn-by-turn voice-prompted directions including street name announcement. The automotive-grade GPS unit is easy to use and has multiple language options.
Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier (via Wanaka)




From Queenstown you'll cross the Crown Range - the highest sealed road in New Zealand - to arrive in the Alpine town of Wanaka, gateway to Mt Aspiring National Park. Skirting the shores of both Lake Wanaka and Hawea, you will enter the small town of Makarora. Stop at Blue Pools for a 1 hour return walk through native beech forest to a glacier-fed swimming hole. Continue on through the remote seaside settlement of Haast before heading up the wild West Coast - a 600 km stretch of bush and native rainforest. Fox Glacier welcomes you first, then comes your destination for the night - Franz Josef township.
Twin Glacier Scenic Helicopter Flight with The Helicopter Line - suggested




Take a spectacular scenic flight over two of New Zealand's most famous glaciers. Land at the head of one and view the incredible sight of this frozen river as it winds its way through ancient carved valleys. Should weather not be suitable to take this flight you are able to transfer your booking onto a similar tour on any of the Helicopter Line's operations in Queenstown or Mt Cook.
Accommodation: Westwood Lodge
Accommodation type: Boutique lodges & hotels
Meals included: Breakfast




Accommodation features
- Check in time: 2 pm
- Check out time: 10:30 am
- Walk time to shops/restaurants: 15-20 mins
- Parking: onsite free parking
- Internet facilities: In room free access
- Includes continental breakfast
- Includes cooked breakfast
- Bar on site
- Tea/coffee facilities in room
- Hair Dryer
- Laundry facilities: On site
- Laundry facilities: Drycleaning service available
- All rooms non smoking
Day 3 - Drive north along the stunning West Coast Road and take the TranzAlpine train to Christchurch
Driving distance and time: 170 kms / 106 miles : 2.1 hours
Times are based on averages for this specific route and allow for stops. Use these times as guidelines and to assist in the planning for your day.
Franz Josef to Greymouth Train Station




Today you’ll head north through the historic gold mining region of Hokitika. Known for its Greenstone (Pounamu) this seaside town has a rich history dating back to the 1860’s. Head to the coast and take in the endless sea-views or pick up a souvenir at one of the many craft shops. Continue on to Greymouth, the largest town on the West Coast and the starting point for the next leg of your journey - the TranzAlpine Scenic Train. Drop your rental car at the Greymouth Train Station depot located inside the train station building before boarding your train to Christchurch.
Monteith's Brewery Personalised Bottle & Tour - suggested




From humble origins in 1868, the Monteith's family-owned Phoenix Brewery became the West Coast's most popular brewery for its strong tasting, full-bodied ale. The Phoenix Brewery later merged with a group of small breweries to form Westland Brewing Company, predecessor to today's Monteith's Brewing Company. In this informative brewery experience, you will learn about the heritage and traditions of the brewing business. Witness the making of a fine beer in open fermenters by coal-fired boilers, using only the finest ingredients. Watch the brewers carefully hand craft the beer in small batches to develop the full natural flavours. When each batch is ready, the brewers employ a brilliant time honoured tradition for quality control - they taste it.
On completion, you will receive a tasting a 3 beers of your choice from the tap at the Brewery bar, plus your very own personalised Monteith's 500ml bottle with your name on it - a personalised endorsement from the head brewer himself.
TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch




Considered one of the world's greatest train journeys, the TranzAlpine scenic train travels both ways from one coast of New Zealand to the other. From your carriage you'll see the vast windswept Canterbury Plains, spectacular gorges, river valleys and native beech rainforest. A highlight for many is the crossing of the Southern Alps, passing through Arthur's Pass National Park, before descending to the Canterbury Plains and arriving in Christchurch.
Private Transfer Christchurch Train Station to your accommodation
On arrival at the Christchurch train station, you will be met by a private driver and transferred to your accommodation.
Accommodation: Merivale Manor House
Accommodation type: Boutique lodges & hotels
Meals included: Breakfast




Accommodation features
- Check in time: 2 pm
- Check out time: 10 am
- Walk time to shops/restaurants: 1-2 mins
- Parking: onsite free parking
- Internet facilities: In room free access
- Tea/coffee facilities in room
- Kitchen/kitchenette in room
- Hair Dryer
- Laundry facilities: On site
- All rooms non smoking
Day 4 - Today you'll enjoy a scenic drive through Canterbury and the MacKenzie Country
Driving distance and time: 350 kms / 217 miles : 4.1 hours
Times are based on averages for this specific route and allow for stops. Use these times as guidelines and to assist in the planning for your day.
Collect your rental car




Our rental car range includes the latest vehicles from the top suppliers. Insurance is included with a small excess or deductible. All airport fees, additional driver fees and unlimited kilometres are also included. To help you navigate your way around New Zealand all rentals also come with GPS. Our range included small compact cars to mid-size saloons to large 4WD and people movers.
Christchurch to Mt. Cook National Park




Today you'll drive through the heart of the South Island, crossing the vast Canterbury plains. Catch your breath in Geraldine before continuing through Fairlie. Ascending Burkes pass you'll come to the picturesque lakeside town of Tekapo.
Follow the road and take in the view of Aoraki Mt Cook (New Zealand's tallest mountain) from the shores of Lake Pukaki, known for its glacier fed turquoise blue color. Continue along the lake to your final destination Mt Cook Village. Please note there are no food or shops at Mount Cook you will need to stock up prior to arriving in Mount Cook if you wish to self cater.
Glacier Explorers Mt. Cook - suggested




Experience 500 year old icebergs up-close on the Mt Cook terminal lake. The Glacier Explorers tour is the only one of its kind in New Zealand - and one of only three in the world! Very few glaciers terminate into lakes and even fewer of them are accessible. See towering ice cliffs and floating icebergs from the safety of a specially designed boat. These boats provide a safe way to view unseen and inaccessible areas of New Zealand's largest glacier - The Tasman.
Accommodation: Hermitage Hotel, Aoraki Wing Premium
Accommodation type: Hotel 4 star
Meals included: Breakfast




Accommodation features
- Check in time: 2 pm
- Check out time: 10 am
- Parking: onsite free parking
- Internet facilities: In room free access
- Internet facilities: On site free access
- Restaurant on site
- Bar on site
- Tea/coffee facilities in room
- Hair Dryer
- All rooms non smoking
Day 5 - Leaving the MacKenzie Country you'll follow the Waitaki River to the coast, where you'll turn south for Dunedin
Driving distance and time: 318 kms / 197 miles : 3.7 hours
Times are based on averages for this specific route and allow for stops. Use these times as guidelines and to assist in the planning for your day.
Mt. Cook National Park to Dunedin




Today you'll leave Mt Cook National Park and travel past Twizel, one of the locations for the Lord of the Rings films. Go through Omarama - gliding capital of New Zealand - but be sure to stop at The Wrinkly Ram, a great local cafe also offering sheep shearing demonstrations. Driving through the Waitaki Valley follow the hydro power generating system towards the east coast. Stretch your legs in Oamaru, known for its white stone buildings constructed with the local Oamaru Stone. If you were a little late off the mark this morning you may get the chance to see the blue penguins come ashore at dusk.
Continue south down the coast to Moeraki, and take a detour towards the beach to see the Moeraki Boulders, a unique geological feature well worth a look. As you arrive in Dunedin, take in the city’s Edwardian and Scottish heritage reflected in the buildings around the city centre - The Octagon.
Monarch Wildlife Cruise from Wellers Rock - suggested




An unforgettable experience viewing rare and fascinating wildlife. Board the Monarch Boat and take in the fascinating sight of the Northern Royal Albatross as it comes in to nest on spectacular cliffs of Taiaroa, Otago Peninsula. You'll also see eight other species of birds including sooty shearwaters and petrels as well as sea lions and fur seals - and if you're really lucky - dolphins and whales.
Accommodation: Fletcher Lodge
Accommodation type: Boutique lodges & hotels
Meals included: Breakfast




Accommodation features
- Check in time: 2:30 pm
- Check out time: 11 am
- Walk time to shops/restaurants: 10-15 mins
- Parking: onsite free parking
- Internet facilities: On site free access
- Includes continental breakfast
- Includes cooked breakfast
- Laundry facilities: On site
- All rooms non smoking
Day 6 - Travel through the rich farmland of South Otago and Southland to reach Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland
Driving distance and time: 396 kms / 246 miles : 5.0 hours
Times are based on averages for this specific route and allow for stops. Use these times as guidelines and to assist in the planning for your day.
Dunedin to Te Anau




The drive to Te-Anau takes you through classic Southland farming scenery. Head off-the-beaten-track today and follow the coastline instead of the inland route. Go through The Catlins area and be sure to take a detour to Kaka Point to view its majestic cliffs and pounding surf. Continue through Invercargill to Riverton and Colac Bay, and then head north to Manapouri. From here you can embark on a day or overnight cruise to the remote Doubtful Sound - renowned for its natural beauty. Just a short way further will bring you to your lakeside destination of Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound.
Te Anau Glowworm Caves - suggested




Begin your Te Anau Glowworm experience with a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau on board the luxury catamaran, Luminosa, to the western side of the lake. On arrival, you'll enter the caves through Cavern House, where informative displays detail the history of this 12,000 year old underground network.
You'll then explore by limestone pathway while your guide points out hidden whirlpools, sculpted rock formations and a rushing underground waterfall. See a magical display of thousands of glowworms as you glide through the darkness in a small boat.
Accommodation: Dunluce Bed and Breakfast
Accommodation type: Bed & breakfast (B&B)
Meals included: Breakfast




Accommodation features
- Check in time: 2 pm
- Check out time: 10 am
- Walk time to shops/restaurants: 20-30 mins
- Parking: onsite free parking
- Internet facilities: In room free access
- Includes continental breakfast
- Includes cooked breakfast
- Laundry facilities: On site
Day 7 - Drive north through rolling Southland countryside then follow Lake Wakatipu to Queenstown
Driving distance and time: 164 kms / 102 miles : 1.9 hours
Times are based on averages for this specific route and allow for stops. Use these times as guidelines and to assist in the planning for your day.
Te Anau to Queenstown




Your drive today takes you from Te Anau to Queenstown through vast alpine tussocklands. Pass Mossburn, the deer capital of the nation then continue on through the southland countryside where the road begins to hug the lake edge. Marvel at the Remarkables mountain range as you begin the final leg of your journey to the adventure capital of New Zealand.
TSS Earnslaw cruise to Walter Peak including gourmet BBQ dinner and a farm tour - suggested




Enjoy a scenic cruise from central Queenstown to Walter Peak High Country Farm on board the historic steamship, TSS Earnslaw. On disembarking, you'll be welcomed and escorted through the beautiful lakeside gardens to the Colonel's Homestead for dinner. Here, you’ll enjoy a Gourmet BBQ dinner which your chef will prepare as you watch. Choose from the seasonal menu which includes an expansive array of New Zealand meats and produce, followed by a delicious array of desserts, New Zealand cheeses and freshly brewed tea & coffee. After dinner, an entertaining and informative demonstration offers you a glimpse of life in the high country. On the magical night-time cruise home, you can enjoy the camaraderie of a singalong with the ship’s pianist or breathe in the fresh night air on the moonlit decks as you watch the lights of Queenstown draw nearer.
Accommodation: The Dairy Private Hotel
Accommodation type: Boutique lodges & hotels
Meals included: Breakfast




Day 8 - Depart Queenstown today
Driving distance and time: 8 kms / 5 miles : 0.2 hours
Times are based on averages for this specific route and allow for stops. Use these times as guidelines and to assist in the planning for your day.
Depart Queenstown today
Explore more of Queenstown before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.