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Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip: Christchurch to Auckland

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15 Nights
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Limited Time Special Offer
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Experience the North and South Islands of New Zealand!

Get ready for the road trip of a lifetime! Travel through New Zealand in your own personal rental cars during this 15-night vacation package. Jam-packed with tours and excitement, you will quickly become immersed in New Zealand's beauty, culture, and landscape. From a cruise on the Milford Sound to a tour of Christchurch to a gondola ride in Queenstown to the glaciers of Franz Josef and more, you're sure to have an incredibly memorable, whirlwind New Zealand vacation!

What's Included
  • Round-trip economy class airfare into Christchurch (CHC), out of Auckland (AKL)
  • Round-trip airport transfers
  • 2 nights in Christchurch at Sudima Christchurch City Hotel, or similar
  • Half-day Christchurch city tour
  • TranzAlpine train journey to Greymouth
  • Automatic rental car - includes unlimited mileage, insurance & GPS
    • Pickup in Greymouth on Day 3 and drop off in Picton on Day 9
  • 1 night in Franz Josef at the Glenfern Villas, or similar
  • 3 nights in Queenstown at the Heritage Hotel Queenstown, or similar
  • Skyline Gondola Ride
  • Milford Sound Cruise with lunch
  • 1 night in Tekapo Lake at the Peppers Bluewater Resort, or similar
  • 1 night in Kaikoura at the White Morph Inn, or similar
  • Whale-Watching Cruise
  • Interislander Ferry from Picton to Wellington
  • Automatic rental car - includes unlimited mileage, insurance & GPS
    • Pickup in Wellington on Day 9 and drop off in Auckland city center on Day 14
  • 2 nights in Wellington at the Novotel Hotel Wellington, or similar
  • 1 night in Napier at the Scenic Te Pania Scenic Hotel, or similar
  • 2 nights in Rotorua at the Regent of Rotura Hotel, or similar
  • Hangi traditional dinner and show
  • Visit to the Rotorua Agrodome
  • Admissions to the Rainbow Springs Nature Park and Te Puia Geothermal Park
  • Waitomo Glowworm Cave tour
  • Barbecue lunch at a local farm
  • 2 nights in Auckland at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, or similar
  • Breakfast daily, 2 lunches and 1 dinner

Helpful links for travel to New Zealand:

Visa & Passport Info

New Zealand e-Visa

Great Ways to Explore

  • Visit Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, three major New Zealand cities!

  • Take a cruise on the stunning Milford Sound!

  • Visit the Franz Josef glaciers for jaw-dropping scenery!

  • Experience an amazing amount of culture as you travel from one city to the next!

  • Feel the breeze in your hair as you cruise all over the country in your two rental cars!

Package Overview

This 15-night vacation truly is the ultimate road trip! Venture through the North and South Islands of New Zealand, taking in spectacular sights as you go!

Begin in Christchurch, where you'll take a sightseeing tour of the city. The Tranzalpine Express, a beautifully scenic train ride, takes you to Greymouth to pick up your rental car and continue to Franz Josef! Drive to see the beautiful glaciers, including Fox Glacier!

From there, you'll drive to Queenstown. Spend a few nights in this great city. Take a gondola ride to the top of Mount Bob, visit the Milford Sound on a day trip, and enjoy leisure time! Continue on to Lake Tekapo and Kaikoura, where you'll take a whale-watching cruise!

From Kaikoura, you'll drive to Picton where you'll drop off your rental car and board the Interislander for a cruise across the Marlborough Sound and the Cook Strait! This will bring you to Wellington, where you'll pick up your rental car and spend a few nights!

Wellington is the capital city of New Zealand and has plenty to do and see. From Wellington, you'll head to Napier, perhaps stopping along the way at a vineyard to try some wines! 

Your next stop is Rotorua. Here, you'll have a handful of experiences that will certainly be remembered as highlights of your trip! First, you'll experience a traditional Hangi meal and concert. You'll visit the Rotorua Agrodome, Rainbow Springs trout sanctuary, and Te Puia geothermal park! Rest up because the fun isn't over just yet!

Depart Rotorua and head for Auckland, your final destination. Stop along the way in Waitomo to visit the glowworm caves and visit a local farm for lunch! Then you'll reach Auckland, where you'll return your rental car and spend the rest of your trip at leisure! 

Show Detailed Itinerary

Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.

Package ID: PK-GC4P-SH-UNZRT-CHC

Please note that some elements called out in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check "What's Included" above for full details on inclusions. As we all go through the recovery together, the fluid nature of this event means some venues and attractions may have restrictions or closures. Please check online resources close to the time of travel to better plan your own day-to-day itinerary.

Day 1. Welcome to Christchurch!

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Check in and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Transfer from Christchurch Airport to hotel

Check-in - Sudima Christchurch City Hotel

Christchurch, New Zealand
4 out of 5 stars

Sudima Christchurch City Hotel is a new boutique hotel can be found among the bustling cafes, bars, and restaurants on Christchurch's Victoria Street. The hotel is in close proximity to Christchurch's CBD and Hagley Park. After an invigorating day of sightseeing, head back to the hotel for canapes and a refreshing cocktail or kick back in your spacious guestroom for a good night's sleep.

Day 2. Christchurch

Today, you will experience a half-day Christchurch city tour! Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island. Continue to explore via tram, bus, or on foot when the tour has concluded!

Half-day Christchurch city tour

The tour commences in the central city of Christchurch and covers the area which was completely devastated by the Christchurch earthquakes in February 2011. The guide will explain both the history of the city and the effects of the earthquake, you will see for yourself both the destructive powers of nature and the rebuild taking place. On leaving the inner city, the tour travels to Mona Vale a historic homestead and gardens. We then travel to the Sign of the Takahe, an historic building with a lookout providing spectacular views over the city, Canterbury Plains and to the Southern Alps. The tour then travels via the Port Hills and Lyttleton Harbour by way of the Sign of the Kiwi and Governors Bay to the Port of Lyttleton. The tour proceeds through the Lyttleton harbour tunnel to the seaside suburb of Sumner and cave rock before returning to the central city where the tour will conclude.

Day 3. Christchurch - Greymouth - Franz Josef

This morning, you will be transferred to the train station to board the Tranzalpine Express! Known as one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, this ride will bring you to Greymouth, where you'll pick up your rental car and drive to Franz Josef! Upon arrival at your hotel, spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Transfer from hotel to train station

Train from Christchurch to Greymouth

Check-in - Glenfern Villas

Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand
4 out of 5 stars

Surrounded by natural beauty, these luxury apartments feature crisp air conditioning, satellite TV, free WiFi, and more. Cozy up in your plush bed, gaze out at stunning alpine scenery, and begin each morning on the peaceful patio. With a fully equipped kitchen and a charming dining area, you'll feel right at home. 

Within the Glenfern complex, you'll find guest laundry, barbecue facilities, and free parking. There's even a small farm with animals on the property! Just 2 miles from Franz Josef Glacier village center, you'll enjoy peace and quiet with easy access to shops and restaurants. 

Day 4. Franz Josef - Queenstown

This morning, explore the glaciers of Franz Josef! Fox Glacier is a popular spot to visit. 

Continue on to Queenstown! Upon arrival, take a gondola ride to the top of Mount Bob for spectacular views!

Check-in - Heritage Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand
4 out of 5 stars

Heritage Queenstown features beautiful views of the surrounding area, including Lake Wakatipu. Guests will enjoy comfortable rooms stocked with fluffy bathrobes, free WiFi, television, and more. Mackenzies Restaurant and Bar serves dishes that feature fresh, local ingredients. Guests can dine outside on the balcony or by the fire, depending upon the season. The hotel also features a pool, sauna, jacuzzi, and gym. Heritage Queenstown is located just a 5 minute drive from the center of town.

Skyline Gondola Ride

Ride a gondola to the top of Mount Bob for amazing panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables in the background!

Day 5. Queenstown - Milford Sound - Queenstown

Today, you will embark on a tour of the Milford Sound! You will depart in the morning and return in the early evening. Lunch is included.

Spend the rest of the day at leisure upon return to Queenstown.

Milford Sound Cruise with lunch

Take a Nature Cruise to sail the length of the fiord to the Tasman Sea where seals, penguins and dolphins are regular visitors to these icy waters. A picnic lunch is included.

Day 6. Queenstown

Spend a free day in Queenstown! Consider optional excursions today, either scenic or adventure-filled. If you'd rather spend today at a slower pace, consider a stroll along Mall Street for some shopping! 

Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown, New Zealand

Day 7. Queenstown - Lake Tekapo

Depart Queenstown and head for Lake Tekapo. Consider a stop in Arrowtown along the way! Arrowtown was famous during the gold rush era and is settled along the Arrow River. Another stopping point to consider is Mount Cook National Park! Check into your hotel in Lake Tekapo and spend the night relaxing.

Check-in - Peppers Bluewater Resort

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand
4 out of 5 stars

Nestled on the shores of Lake Tekapo, this luxurious hotel boasts spectacular views, modern rooms, and extensive amenities. Just a 10-minute walk from the Church of the Good Shepherd, Peppers Bluewater Resort positions you in an ideal location! Upon arrival, check-in with the friendly reception team, then make your way to your spacious room. Open the door to crisp air conditioning, WiFi, flat-screen TV, plush bedding, and more! When it's time to eat, consider a meal at the onsite Rakinui restaurant! 

Day 8. Lake Tekapo - Kaikoura

Today you'll depart Lake Tekapo for Kaikoura. Upon arrival, you'll enjoy a whale-watching cruise!

Check-in - The White Morph

Kaikoura, New Zealand
4 out of 5 stars

Nestled on the esplanade along the coast of Kaikoura, White Morph boasts stunning ocean views, comfortable rooms, and modern amenities. Open the door to your room and find free WiFi, plush bedding, kitchenette facilities, a flat-screen TV, and more! Heading into town? Kaikoura town center is only a short walk away! 

Whale-Watching Cruise

Depart from Kaikoura to enjoy your Nature Cruise. Keep a look out for the sperm whales which inhabit the area!

Day 9. Kaikoura - Blenheim - Picton - Wellington

Today you will drive from Kaikoura to Blenheim and then to Picton! Consider a stop at one of the hundreds of wineries along the way.

Upon arrival in Picton, you will return your rental car and board your ferry for Wellington. This is an Interislander ferry which takes you through the Marlborough Sounds and Cook Strait! 

Upon arrival in Wellington, you will pick up your new rental car and drive to your hotel. Check in and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Interislander ferry from Picton to Wellington

Check-in - Novotel Wellington

Wellington, New Zealand
4 out of 5 stars

Crisp, clean, contemporary, and comfortable, Novotel Wellington is the perfect home away from home. Just steps from Lambton Quay Cable Car Station, this beautiful hotel positions you in an outstanding location for exploring Wellington. After you check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, head up to your room. Open the door to plush bedding, stylish decor, crisp air conditioning, luxurious bath amenities, WiFi access, and much more! 

Once you get settled, work all your stresses away in the fitness center. When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious meal at the onsite Caucus restaurant! Then, unwind the day away with a smooth cocktail from the Caucus bar. 

Day 10. Wellington

Spend a free day in Wellington! Considered by many to be one of the greatest capital cities in the world, the history and culture here beg to be explored! Tour the Parliament buildings, grab a cup of deliciously brewed coffee, shop 'til you drop, and try some of New Zealand's finest delicacies!

Parliament Building • Wellington, New Zealand

Parliament Building • Wellington, New Zealand

Day 11. Wellington - Napier

Today you'll leave Wellington for Napier. Hawke's Bay, the region in which Napier is located, is one of the greatest wine regions in New Zealand! Mission Estate Winery was established in 1851 and is the oldest vineyard in the country. Consider stopping here en route to your hotel in Napier!

Check-in - Scenic Hotel Te Pania

Napier, New Zealand
4 out of 5 stars

Located right on picturesque Marine Parade, the stunning Scenic Hotel Te Pania offers comfortable rooms, luxurious amenities, and breathtaking views. After checking in with the friendly 24-hour reception team, head up to your bright, spacious room. Open the door and find flat-screen satellite TV, free WiFi, plush bedding, and much more! 

Consider a meal at the onsite Exchange Brasserie, which boasts beautiful views and a locally sourced menu. Why not unwind with a drink from the bar? When you're ready to explore, take a quick 2-minute walk to Napier's scenic Art Deco-style main street! 

Day 12. Napier - Taupo - Rotorua

Leave Napier this morning and head for Rotorua! Consider stopping along the way at the Wairakei Geothermal Plant & Huka Falls. Check into your hotel in Rotorua upon arrival.

Tonight you will be treated to a traditional Hangi dinner and concert!

Check-in - Regent of Rotorua Boutique Hotel

Rotorua, New Zealand
5 out of 5 stars

Step into elegance and sophistication at this beautiful boutique hotel! Upon arrival, check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team and admire the stylish lobby. Head up to your room and open the door to flooding natural light, flat-screen TV, free WiFi, plush bedding, luxurious bath amenities, and more!

Unpack your swimsuit and make a splash in the sparkling outdoor pool, or lace up your sneakers and work out in the fitness center. When you work up an appetite, consider a meal at the delicious Regent Room Restaurant & Wine Bar. In the mood to explore the area? Regent of Rotorua Boutique Hotel is conveniently placed just steps from local shops, bars, and cafes! 

Hangi traditional dinner & show

An evening at Mitai will give you an authentic introduction to Maori culture leaving you amazed and in awe. Enter the world of Mitai. Be enthralled by the natural bush setting, see warriors in traditional dress paddle an ancient warrior canoe (waka) down the Wai-o-whiro stream, and don’t miss your only opportunity in the Rotorua area to see glow worms in their natural habitat. Marvel at the crystal clear water full of eels and trout, flowing directly from the earth at the sacred Fairy Spring. See your traditionally cooked hangi meal being lifted from the ground. During our cultural performance, you’ll learn about our past, carvings and ta moko (tattoo art). Be captivated by the displays of weaponry and combat, coupled with the grace and beauty of the poi dance. You’ll be amazed by the spine tingling haka finale. The Mitai family is proud to have created a sacred and spiritual place that offers you an indigenous cultural experience like no other.

Day 13. Rotorua

Experience Rotorua today! First, you will visit the Agrodome to learn more about New Zealand's livestock. Then, it's off to Rainbow Springs, a trout sanctuary. Next stop is Te Puia, a geothermal park! Return to Rotorua this evening.

Visit to the Rotorua Agrodome

The Agrodome is a complex where we could learn more about New Zealand livestock including sheep, cattle and others. The stars of the show are not only the sheep but the farm dogs which will demonstrate their ability to respond to commands and keep the stock under their control. You may also feed the lambs or even milk a cow.

Admissions to the Rainbow Springs and Te Puia geothermal park

Set in 22 acres of beautiful native trees and streams, Rainbow Springs is home to a huge variety of New Zealand’s most precious inhabitants. Experience the adrenaline rush of The Big Splash, explore the many free flight aviaries, come face to face with pre-history in the eyes of the tuatara, and experience the wonder of the bird show featuring some of the funniest feathered performers you will ever see.

Then, wander through Te Puia, New Zealand’s Maori Culture Centre, where you will have the opportunity to view the awesome power of the Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley, and much more.

Day 14. Rotorua - Waitomo - Auckland

Travel today to Waitomo en route to Auckland! Reach Waitomo and take a tour of the famous glowworm caves! Then, drive to a local farm for a bbq lunch. Continue to Auckland, where you'll return your rental car and then make your way to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Check-in - Crowne Plaza Auckland

Auckland, New Zealand
4 out of 5 stars

Crowne Plaza Auckland is nestled in the heart of Auckland's Central Business District. Guests can expect well-appointed rooms with free WiFi, complimentary toiletries, television, and more. Aria Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner and features local produce and a drink menu. Aria Bar is open all day for coffee, cocktails, and light bites. The city's Sky Tower is located right across the street, with other top attractions within walking distance.

Waitomo Glowworm Cave tour

Tour the amazing limestone caverns and sail through the still waters of the sparkling Glow Worm Grotto!

Barbecue lunch at a local farm

Drive to a local farm for a BBQ! Lunch is prepared right in front of your eyes in a very special place; where you can appreciate the true rural way of living!

Day 15. Auckland

Spend a free day in Auckland! Consider adding an optional excursion to your day, or enjoy the simple pleasures of life in the city. Stroll along Queen Street, stop for a cup of coffee in a quaint cafe, and find a waterfront restaurant for dinner!

Queen Street • Auckland, New Zealand

Queen Street • Auckland, New Zealand

Day 16. Depart New Zealand

Today you will be transferred to the Auckland Airport for your flight home!

Transfer from hotel to Auckland Airport

Fly home!

We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.

Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Great Value Vacations website and may not represent current prices.

Vacation packages include round-trip economy class airfare on valid international carriers as noted in specific package inclusions and as indicated on booking engine calendar, which may also include code share flight agreements between carriers as indicated during the booking process. Carriers may vary based on city of origin.

Air fares are based on a 14-day advance purchase and include round-trip economy class airfare, including carrier and government-imposed taxes and fees, and the September 11th Security Fee of $5.60 per enplanement originating at a U.S. airport. Fluctuations in exchange rates may affect some taxes or fees. Other departure dates and origins are available at slightly higher rates. Fares apply to North American originating passengers only, and are not eligible for accrual of frequent flyer points/mileage. Seats are limited and fares may not be available on all flights. Child/infant discounts are not available, and stopovers are not permitted. Advance seat selection is controlled by the carrier(s), and may not be available on all flights. Baggage fees may apply; please check with carrier for specific policies.

Vacation packages are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date or on all flights, and may be restricted to certain hotel room and car categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required at the time of reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only. Bookings made through our call center may incur a concierge fee of up to $25 per person.

Escorted vacation packages are per person based on two travelers (unless otherwise specified), and typically include hotel accommodations; transportation with professional driver/guide; sightseeing as listed, some meals, local taxes, hotel service charges and porterage of one (1) suitcase per person, due to limited capacity on motor coaches. Space is limited and prices may be restricted to certain travel dates, length of stay or room type. Driver and guide gratuities are not included, and are at the discretion of the traveler. Terms and conditions apply. Minimum child ages and handicapped traveler restrictions may apply on escorted tours; please call for details.

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Call 1-800-896-4600 or go to /travel/terms-and-conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy. 
Package Overview

Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip: Christchurch to Auckland

DRIVE AROUND NEW ZEALAND!

Christchurch Botanic Garden • Christchurch, New Zealand First spot   
Christchurch, New Zealand

Sudima Christchurch City Hotel

A stylish city stay

Sudima Christchurch City Next spot   On a full map
Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

Glenfern Villas

Home away from home

Glenfern Villas, Franz Josef Glacier Next spot   On a full map
Queenstown, New Zealand

Heritage Queenstown

Beautiful hotel with views of Lake Wakatipu

Heritage Queenstown Next spot   On a full map
Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Simple luxury with stunning views

Peppers Bluewater Resort in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand Next spot   On a full map
Kaikoura, New Zealand

The White Morph

Oceanfront beauty meets modern luxury

The White Morph in Kaikoura, New Zealand Next spot   On a full map
Wellington, New Zealand

Novotel Wellington

Contemporary comfort in the heart of Wellington

Novotel Wellington, New Zealand Next spot   On a full map
Napier, New Zealand

Scenic Hotel Te Pania

Contemporary comfort in the heart of Napier

Scenic Hotel Te Pania Next spot   On a full map
Rotorua, New Zealand

Regent of Rotorua Boutique Hotel

Comfort and elegance near the heart of town

Regent of Rotorua Boutique Hotel Next spot   On a full map
Auckland, New Zealand

Crowne Plaza Auckland

Modern, comfortable hotel in the Auckland CBD

Crowne Plaza Auckland Start over On a full map

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