New Zealand Self-Drive

This comprehensive self-drive tour visits the highlights of New Zealand's north and south islands, combining cultural attractions with the thrill of New Zealand's natural beauty. Experience Maori culture, vineyards, museums and craft towns, fine cuisine and local wines. Cruise through fjords, land on glaciers, ride the TranzAlpine train through mountains, watch whales in the open ocean, and explore underground glow worm grottoes. Accommodation is at highly recommended B&Bs and small lodges that represent good value, location and New Zealand style.

Begin in Christchurch, on the South Island, and tour the city's renowned gardens, English heritage architecture, art galleries and neighborhoods along the River Avon. Take a whale watching excursion to nearby Kaikoura. Next, ride the TranzAlpine Train - one of the world's great scenic train rides - through spectacular gorges and lush forests. Self-drive to the glaciers at Franz Josef and onward to Wanaka to experience the majestic beauty of the Southern Alps. Continue your self-drive to Te Anau, your base for exploring the region's tumbling waterfalls and forested valleys. A day will be spent cruising the majestic fiords of Doubtful Sound. Explore Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage area where rocky, snow-covered peaks tower over narrow lakes, waterfalls burst from dense rainforests, and seals and penguins lounge on islands. Enjoy the many gourmet highlights - featuring local wines, cheeses, olive oil and produce.

Next, drive to Queenstown, the "adventure capital of the world." Opt to partake in thrilling activities such as a Shotover River Jet Safari, bungy jumping or glacier landings, or visit nearby vineyards and art towns such as Arrowtown. From Queenstown, fly to New Zealand's North Island and its sophisticated capital city, Wellington. Tour the city's hills and harbors, its acclaimed Te Papa Museum, and its superb restaurants and galleries. Self-drive to Taupo, a town dominated by striking volcanic peaks, and enjoy several days immersed in its unspoiled scenery. Perhaps go fly fishing, cruise on the lake, or visit Huka Falls. Alternatively, stay in Rotorua, known for its Maori culture, geysers and hot springs, and the legendary Agrodome sheep show. Next, take a boat ride through the fascinating glow worm caves in Waitomo. The tour concludes with several days in the stylish harborside city of Auckland. Time is at leisure to shop in quaint neighborhoods, visit art galleries and museums, go sailing on the harbor, or visit the vineyards and olive groves of nearby Waiheke Island.