South Island Holidays

Peek into the glowworm caves and marvel at the geothermic activity on North Island before flying to South Island for mountainous escapades, glacier hikes, scenic drives, and an epic train journey through the magnificent landscape.

Your trip kicks off in Auckland, and as you drive through the countryside and city, the best of New Zealand will reveal itself. Working through North Island, then catching the ferry to the dramatically scenic South Island, this itinerary checks off must-see locations and finishes with a memorable railway journey through the mountains aboard the TranzAlpine Express.

Your north-to-south self-drive takes you via New Zealand’s finest vineyards, including Hawke’s Bay, Martinborough, Marlborough, and the world’s southernmost wine region, Central Otago. You’ll stay in gorgeous lodges and hotels along the way, sipping on the country’s Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noirs, Syrah, and Merlot as you roam.

From glorious waters that teem with trout on the North Island to the glaciers of the South Island, this trip reveals the scenic diversity of New Zealand, including vineyards, lakes, and rainforests. You’ll have the chance to walk some of the country’s most famous trails, including the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, the Queen Charlotte Track, trails through Fjordland, and private routes that weave through a merino wool farm.

You’ll drive between New Zealand’s most coveted locations across both North Island and South Island and stay in a range of gorgeous, hand-picked places, from waterfront lodges to eco-minded treehouses, family-run wine lodges, and high-end hotels, each of which offers something distinct and memorable.

Set off on a multi-stop road trip that covers the highlights of New Zealand’s South Island, from the scenery of the Southern Alps to the tranquillity of Fiordland, the adventures of Queenstown, and the fine wines of Marlborough. Topped and tailed with city stays, this is a road trip that you’ll remember forever.