10 Days in New Zealand

Arrive at Auckland International Airport, the primary gateway to New Zealand. Clear customs, collect your luggage, and prepare for your epic journey.

Auckland's premier waterfront precinct, Viaduct Harbour is a vibrant hub of dining, nightlife, and maritime activity. Walk along the docks, admire the yachts, and enjoy the sea breeze. This lively marina is the perfect place to adjust to the local pace after a long flight. You can watch the superyachts glide in and out of the harbor while enjoying the fresh sea air. The area is lined with excellent restaurants and bars, making it a fantastic introduction to New Zealand's culinary scene. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, soak in the maritime atmosphere, and feel the energy of the City of Sails as the sun sets over the harbor. It is a highly walkable area with easy access to the downtown ferry terminal and shopping districts.

Chef Al Brown's acclaimed eatery, Depot, offers a relaxed, fast-paced dining experience with a focus on fresh, seasonal New Zealand produce. The raw bar features freshly shucked oysters, while the wood-fired oven produces incredible shared plates.

Arrive at Christchurch Airport, pick up your rental car or campervan, and stock up on supplies before hitting the open road.

A spectacular alpine pass crossing the Southern Alps, featuring dramatic gorges, mountain peaks, and the famous Castle Hill limestone rock formations. As you drive through this rugged landscape, you will witness the dramatic transition from the dry Canterbury Plains to the lush, wet forests of the West Coast. Arthur's Pass is the highest pass over the Southern Alps, offering breathtaking viewpoints and numerous short walks. Keep an eye out for the cheeky kea, the world's only alpine parrot, which often greets travelers at the summit lookout. The drive is a highlight of any South Island road trip, with engineering marvels like the Otira Viaduct showcasing human ingenuity amidst raw natural beauty. Ensure your camera is charged and your fuel tank is full before departing Christchurch.

A stunning gorge where glacial meltwater turns an intense, milky turquoise color, surrounded by dense native bush. Walk the easy loop track and cross the swing bridge.

The premier operator for glacier guiding in Franz Josef, offering professional guides, high-quality gear, and safe access to the spectacular ice formations.

A collection of stunning roadside waterfalls along the Haast Pass highway, including the elegant Fantail Falls and the towering Thunder Creek Falls.

A famous 16km return hiking track that climbs steeply through alpine meadows to a spectacular viewpoint overlooking Lake Wanaka and Mount Aspiring. This challenging trail is a favorite among photography enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers, offering some of the most iconic panoramic views in New Zealand. The climb is relentless, with a steady incline on a well-formed gravel track, but the reward at the summit is unparalleled. Standing on the ridge line, you will feel on top of the world as you gaze out over the deep blue waters of the lake and the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps. It is best to start early in the morning to beat the heat and the crowds, bringing plenty of water, sunscreen, and warm layers for the exposed summit. The hike typically takes 5 to 6 hours return, requiring a good level of fitness.

A lonely willow tree that has grown out of the waters of Lake Wanaka, becoming one of the most photographed natural landmarks in New Zealand.

Established in 1863 during the gold rush, this is one of New Zealand's oldest and most iconic hotels, featuring a beautiful historic facade and a cozy garden bar.

A world-famous jet boat ride that takes you through the dramatic, narrow canyons of the Shotover River, featuring 360-degree spins and high-speed thrills.

Located on Bob's Peak, Skyline offers a scenic gondola ride, thrilling luge tracks, mountain biking trails, and a restaurant with spectacular views.

A legendary Queenstown institution, Fergburger is famous worldwide for its massive, delicious gourmet burgers made with high-quality local ingredients.

A small, picturesque settlement at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, serving as the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park and numerous hiking trails. Surrounded by towering beech forests and dramatic mountain peaks, Glenorchy feels like a step back in time. This tranquil town has served as the backdrop for many iconic scenes in the Lord of the Rings films, capturing the imagination of travelers worldwide. Walk the gentle Glenorchy Walkway, visit the historic red shed on the waterfront, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this alpine paradise. The drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is widely considered one of the most scenic road trips in the world, hugging the edge of the lake with spectacular viewpoints at every turn. It is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of Queenstown and connect with nature.

The historic suspension bridge over the Kawarau River, famous as the site of the world's first commercial bungy jumping operation by AJ Hackett.

The stunning drive along the southern arm of Lake Wakatipu, featuring the winding curves of the Devil's Staircase and spectacular mountain backdrops.

A magical underground cave system on the western shores of Lake Te Anau, accessible only by boat, featuring rushing waterfalls and thousands of glowworms.

One of the most scenic drives in the world, winding through the heart of Fiordland National Park with spectacular viewpoints, valleys, and waterfalls. Known as the Milford Road, this alpine highway is an adventure in itself, taking you through the dramatic Eglinton Valley, past the reflective Mirror Lakes, and through the hand-carved Homer Tunnel. Every turn reveals a new natural wonder, from towering granite cliffs to cascading waterfalls. It is a drive that demands a slow pace, with numerous scenic pull-offs where you can stretch your legs and soak in the raw beauty of the wilderness. The road can be challenging, especially in winter or wet weather, so driving with care and checking road conditions in advance is essential. It is the ultimate prelude to the majesty of Milford Sound.

A highly-rated cruise operator in Milford Sound, offering smaller, less crowded boats that get you closer to the waterfalls and wildlife of the fjord.

A breathtaking alpine lake known for its intense, milky turquoise color, caused by fine glacial flour suspended in the water.

An easy-to-moderate 10km return walking track that winds up the Hooker Valley, offering spectacular views of Mount Cook and ending at the glacier lake. This highly popular trail is accessible to all ages and fitness levels, featuring a flat, well-maintained boardwalk that crosses three impressive swing bridges. As you walk, you will be surrounded by the towering peaks of the Southern Alps, with the roaring Hooker River flowing beside you. The trail ends at the Hooker Lake, where you can see icebergs floating in the water and enjoy a dramatic, up-close view of Aoraki / Mount Cook's south face. It is a deeply moving experience, walking through the sacred alpine landscape of the Ngāi Tahu people. The walk takes about 3 hours return, with minimal elevation gain, making it the perfect way to experience the park's alpine beauty.

Based in Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook, this world-class astronomy center offers guided stargazing tours using powerful telescopes in a gold-tier Dark Sky Reserve.

A beautiful, historic stone church built in 1935 on the shores of Lake Tekapo, famous for its picturesque setting and altar window framing the lake.

The main international airport of the South Island, where you will return your vehicle and catch your flight home.