13 Day Ski, Spa & Southern Lights
South Island Self Drive Tour
Christchurch to Queenstown
Self Drive
Days: 13 days / 12 Nights
Accommodation: 4-5 star
Vehicle: Modern Toyota Rav4 + Full Insurance
From: $665 NZD Per Person, Per Day*
Price: $8645 NZD Per Person, Twin Share *(low season)
100% Customisable to Fit Your Budget!
All Inclusive & Customisable
Dive into a winter fairytale with “Winter Wonderland: Ski, Spa & Southern Lights in New Zealand’s South Island,” meticulously designed for the frosty months of June to September. This exclusive journey weaves together the thrill of skiing and snowboarding, the serenity of luxurious spa retreats, and the celestial spectacle of the Southern Lights. Ideal for families and snow enthusiasts alike, it’s a celebration of winter’s splendor set against the backdrop of New Zealand’s awe-inspiring landscapes.
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Lift Pass + Rental for Mt Hutt (Includes Skis or Snowboard, Boots + Poles)
Lake Tekapo star gazing in hot pools!
Dunedin Southern Skies Stargazing
Dunedin 1 hour Wildlife Cruise
Larnach Castle and Gardens Entry
Southern Discoveries Milford Sound Cruise and Kayak Tour
Te Anau Glowworm Cave Tour with Lake Cruise
Lift Pass + Rental for Coronet Peak (Includes Skis or Snowboard, Boots + Poles)
Queenstown Snowmobiles 2.5 Hour Experience
Altitude Tours - Queenstown Wine Sampler 6 Hour Tour + Return Transfers
Onsen Hot Pools Queenstown - The Ultimate Relaxation Experience (2-3 hours)
Lift Pass + Rental for The Remarkables (Includes Skis or Snowboard, Boots + Poles)
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12 nights in 4-5 star/best available motel, hotel, bed and breakfast or apartment featuring mountain, ocean and lake views (subject to availability)
13 days vehicle hire of a modern Toyota Rav4 or similar + GPS + full insurance
All meals as listed under each day's itinerary
All experiences as listed under each day's itinerary
All bookings and reservations + assistance for urgent matters during your trip via email and a free calling number
A digital travel guide APP outlining our top picks for what to see and do and where to eat along your route
The donation of 4 native trees – a sustainability initiative to offset carbon emissions and re-grow Aotearoa/New Zealand's forests
Arrival and departure flights not included
Detailed Itinerary - Day by Day
Day 1
Stay: Fable Christchurch
Rental Car Pick up
Your Day: Christchurch Arrival
Upon arrival at Christchurch Airport you will collect your rental vehicle within the airport terminal. Make your way to your inner city accommodation where the day and night are free to spend at your leisure and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Bespoke options today include:
A scenic tram ride through the city
An excursion to the Antarctic Centre
Experiencing the thrill of zip-lining or mountain biking at the Adventure Park
Savouring the tastes on a food and wine tour
Plus, many more experiences tailored to your interests (please share what you love!)
Day 2
Driving time: 2.5 hours driving, 154km
Stay: Fable Terrace Downs
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner Included
Lift Pass + Rental for Mt Hutt (Includes Skis or Snowboard, Boots + Poles)
Your Day: Christchurch to Mount Hutt & Terrace Downs
This morning you will make your journey inland and south to Canterbury's premium skiing destination, Mt Hutt. With its stunning location in the Southern Alps and reliable snow conditions, Mt Hutt offers a range of challenging terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. From beginners to seasoned experts, visitors can enjoy the resort's wide open runs, panoramic views and exceptional facilities. Following a full day up the mountain, drive a short distance down the road to Fable Terrace Downs Resort, where you will spend the night at the base of the alps and enjoy a complimentary dinner. Your ski package today includes lift passes & recreational skis/snowboard + boot & pole hire (Helmets additional. Goggles and gloves cannot be hired, only purchased).
Bespoke options today include: (not everyone might want the snow!):
A relaxing visit to the Opuke Hot Springs
A round of golf at Terrace Downs
A scenic walk at Washpen Falls
An exhilarating jet boat ride
Plus, many more experiences tailored to your interests (please share what you love!)
Day 3
Driving time: 2.5 hours driving, 189km
Stay: Lake Tekapo Village Motel
Meals: Breakfast Included
Your Day: Terrace Downs to Lake Tekapo
Today you will make your journey south-west to Lake Tekapo, by initially following Canterbury’s inland scenic route. Along the way you will pass through high country sheep farming territory. Why not stop in the quaint little town of Geraldine and sample some of their New Zealand-famous jam. Arriving on the shores of the bright blue Lake Tekapo, stop and take a photo at the beautiful Church of the Good Shepherd and then head further up the road to one of our favourite scenic spots in the country; Mt. John. At the summit of Mt. John, one feels like they are on top of the world with 360 degree views of the snow-capped Southern Alps, high country farmland and surrounding blue lakes. This evening you will enjoy a soak and stargazing tour at Tekapo Hot Springs, located on the edge of the lake. The ultimate in stellar relaxation, Tekapo Star Gazing is the only guided hot pools and star gazing experience in New Zealand. A two-hour experience, the first half of this guided indoor and/or outdoor tour introduces you to Tekapo’s amazing night skies with a unique combination of astronomy and storytelling. You will then enjoy exclusive use of a 37.5 – 38.5℃ hot pool; lie on a floating hammock and feel like you’re soaking in the stars as you explore the wonder of night skies!
Bespoke options today include:
Exploring Mount Hutt,
Rakaia Gorge Walkway,
Hot Air Balloon Rides,
Mount John Observatory,
Opuke Thermal Pools and Spa.
Tobogganing!
Plus, many more experiences tailored to your interests (please share what you love!)
Day 4
Driving time: 3.5 hours driving, 287km
Stay: Distinction Dunedin
Meals: Breakfast Included
Your Day: Lake Tekapo to Dunedin
Today you head South East, towards the East coast, stopping in the town of Oamaru, for its Victorian heritage precinct and steampunk artefacts. Continue south along state highway 1 where you will spot the legendary Moeraki Boulders. These boulders are concretions that have been exposed through shoreline erosion from coastal cliffs that back the beach, some of which weigh several tonnes and are up to 3 metres in diameter. Your final part of the drive takes you to Dunedin, “Scotland of the South.” In the evening you may wish to make a visit to the historic Speights Brewery for some sampling of one of New Zealand’s most iconic beers (optional – extra cost).
Bespoke options today include:
Aoraki Mount Cook National Park,
Clay Cliffs,
Penguin Watching,
Elephant Rocks,
Fleurs Place,
Glider Flights,
Salmon Farm,
Glacier Explorers,
Heli Skiing
Plus, many more experiences tailored to your interests (please share what you love!).
Day 5
Stay: Distinction Dunedin
Meals: Breakfast Included
Southern Skies Stargazing
1 hour Wildlife Cruise
Larnach Castle and Gardens Entry
Your Day: Dunedin
Embark on a captivating day in Dunedin, starting with a wildlife cruise near the entrance of the Otago Harbour. On this journey, you'll explore the rugged coastline, with full commentary on the local wildlife, history, and geology. Glide past Aramoana Beach, where you might spot sea lions basking in the sun, and observe the remnants of military history across the harbour. Marvel at the sight of royal albatrosses soaring with their impressive wingspans near Taiaroa Head, and get up-close views of a historic lighthouse and a New Zealand fur seal colony. Venturing briefly into the Pacific Ocean, keep an eye out for diverse marine life, including dolphins and rare ocean birds.
After your cruise, visit Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle, offering a glimpse into Victorian splendor set against the backdrop of exquisite gardens and breathtaking views. Explore the castle's rich history, architecture, and the beautifully maintained grounds.
Tonight enjoy one of the best chances to see the southern lights with a guided star Gazing tour!
Bespoke options today include:
Royal Albatross Centre,
Dunedin Railway Station,
Speight's Brewery Tour,
Tunnel Beach Walkway,
The Otago Museum,
Dunedin Botanic Garden,
Baldwin Street: The Steepest Street in the World,
Penguin Watching at Otago Peninsula,
Dunedin Chinese Garden.
Plus, many more experiences tailored to your interests (please share what you love!).
Day 6
Driving time: 5 hours driving, 410km
Stay: Milford Sound Lodge
Meals: Breakfast Included
Your Day: Dunedin to Milford Sound
Today our South Island tour takes us inland to Te Anau- known as the gateway to Fiordland National Park which covers approximately 1.2 million hectares. The spectacular drive from Te anau to Milford Sound is one of the most spectacular in the world and certainly a highlight on any New Zealand tour. En route you will see spectacular valleys, breath taking mountains and hopefully spot the cheeky Kea (New Zealand’s mountain parrot). In the afternoon there is the possibility to take one of the many short walks in the area. You will stay overnight at Milford Sound Lodge, surrounded by rainforest and waterfalls, and a beautiful river.
Bespoke options include:
Visiting and staying in Invercargill
Visiting and staying in Stewart Island (great for shark diving and bird life!)
Going to doubtful sound instead.
Staying at a more family friendly accommodation in Te Anau.
Plus, many more experiences tailored to your interests (please share what you love!).
Day 7
Stay: Milford Sound Lodge
Meals: Breakfast Included
Southern Discoveries Milford Sound Cruise and Kayak Tour
Your Day: Milford Sound
This morning you will experience all that the fjords have to offer with a kayak and cruise tour, featuring pristine waterfalls and towering mountains plunging into the Tasman Sea (included activity). Keep a look out for dolphins, seals and the Fiordland crested Penguin. The rest of the day is free to explore Milford Sound at leisure and take part in some of the fantastic day walks that Milford Sound has to offer. Options include:
Gertrude Valley – 4-5 Hours – Summer / Autumn – Climb to Gertrude Saddle; an exciting and hard to forget alpine hiking experience offering stunning mountain views, waterfalls and ice fields.
Grave Talbot – 3-4 Hours – Upper Track: Summer / Autumn – Follow raging Fiordland rives to the Esperance River Grasslands or simply stroll alongside the Gulliver River.
Key Summit – 3 Hours – All year – Walk to Key Summit, along a well-formed track suitable for all, for unforgettable 360-degree lake to sea views of Fiordland
Lake Marian – 3-4 Hours – All year – Climb to a beautiful alpine lake alongside raging mountain rivers or take an easy 20 minute stroll along Marian Creek to take in an exceptional view.
Tutoko – 5-6 Hours – All year – Walk through enchanting rainforest and enjoy views of Fiordland’s highest peak and witness the Herbert Icefields dropping into the Leader Creek.
Today is a great day to relax away from phone signal!
Day 8
Driving time: 3 hours 45 minutes driving, 287km
Stay: Scenic Suites Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast Included
Glowworm Cave Tour with Lake Cruise
Your Day: Milford Sound to Queenstown
On your trip back to Queenstown there is the opportunity to take some short walks in the Fiordland National Park. In Te Anau you will take a tour by boat across Lake Te Anau to the glow worm caves to view the shimmering light of thousands of luminous glow-worms in a 12,000 year old grotto. Skirting your way around Lake Wakatipu makes for some stunning photography and you will be amazed by the Remarkables Mountain Range, one of the most famous back drops for Lord of the Rings. The evening is free to spend as you wish in Queenstown, and there is plenty to see and do!
Bespoke options today include:
Onsen Hot Pools: Relax in private hot pools with views of the Shotover River canyon.
Skyline Dinner: Enjoy a meal at the top of the gondola with panoramic views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.
Earnslaw Cruise, Dinner, and Farm Tour: Experience a cruise on the TSS Earnslaw, followed by dinner and a tour at Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Amisfield Winery Dinner: Savor a gourmet dinner at Amisfield Bistro, known for its fine wines and local cuisine.
Plus, many more experiences tailored to your interests (please share what you love!)
Day 9
Driving time: 45 minutes driving return, 32km
Stay: Scenic Suites Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast Included
Lift Pass + Rental for Coronet Peak (Includes Skis or Snowboard, Boots + Poles)
Your Day: Ski/Snowboard Coronet Peak
Today is a full day dedicated to hitting the powder. The beautiful Coronet Peak ski area sits above Arrowtown, with stunning high points and rolling trails offering seasoned skiers and snowboarders an experience to remember, while the gentle lower slopes are perfect for beginners. Sitting at 1649m above sea level, don’t forget to take in the stunning views of the valley and surrounding snow capped peak. By the end of today’s ski run you should be really getting the hang of the kiwi ski style – both on and off the slopes! Head back to town and perhaps enjoy the evening with a visit to Queenstown’s iconic Ice Bar or snuggle up in a cosy bistro in front of the fireplace. Your ski package today includes lift passes & recreational skis/snowboard + boot & pole hire (Helmets additional. Goggles and gloves cannot be hired, only purchased).
Day 10
Stay: Scenic Suites Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast Included
Queenstown Snowmobiles 2.5 Hour Experience
Your Day: Queenstown Snowmobile Experience
Today you will enjoy a scenic helicopter flight and snowmobile experience, 6,000ft above sea level (drive your own snowmobile). If you’ve always wanted to try snowmobiling, then Queenstown Snowmobiles is for you. It is the ultimate adventure on snow: action-packed and adrenaline-pumping with the added bonus of stunning scenery and amazing views for the duration of the entire trip!
The rest of the day is free to spend as you wish in Queenstown. We recommend Moke Lake for the star gazers! Just a short drive from Queenstown, Moke Lake is a hidden gem, offering serene beauty and a circular walking track that encircles the lake. This relatively easy walk is perfect for families and those looking for a peaceful escape into nature. At night, Moke Lake becomes an incredible spot for stargazing, with clear skies and minimal light pollution allowing for a spectacular view of the stars one of our team has photographed the southern lights here!
Day 11
Driving time: 380km, 5 hours driving
Stay: Scenic Suites Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast Included
Altitude Tours - Queenstown Wine Sampler 6 Hour Tour + Return Transfers
Onsen Hot Pools Queenstown - The Ultimate Relaxation Experience (2-3 hours)
Your Day: Queenstown Wine Sampler Tour + Onsen Experience
Did someone say Queenstown wine tour? It’s time to pinot! Travel in premium Mercedes vehicles visiting four of Central Otago’s finest and off the beaten track cellar doors, including a visit to New Zealand’s famous Gibbston Valley underground wine cave. Look, smell and taste over 18 spectacular cool-climate wines and enjoy an optional scrumptious lunch (additional cost ordered on the day) whilst your charismatic wine guide and knowledgeable cellar staff educate and amuse you with local winemaking facts and stories. This evening you will indulge in a private bathing experience at Onsen Hot Pools Queenstown. Your experience begins with a 45-minute soak in a cedar lined hot tub while you enjoy a complimentary drink and snack and soak up the incredible views of the quintessential southern landscape. Once relaxed, calm and warm, you will then be treated to your choice of face or body treatments in Onsen Queenstown's peaceful day spa room with 1 hour spa packages available.
This day is easily substituted or adjusted options include:
Skyline Gondola: Ride to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains.
Bungy Jumping: Experience the thrill of bungy jumping at the Kawarau Bridge, the world's first commercial bungy site.
Jet Boating: Take an exhilarating jet boat ride through the Shotover or Kawarau Rivers, experiencing high speeds and stunning scenery.
Lake Wakatipu Cruise: Relax on a scenic cruise, enjoying the majestic views of the Remarkables Mountain Range and surrounding areas.
Queenstown Gardens: Enjoy a leisurely walk or a game of frisbee golf in this beautifully maintained public garden.
Kiwi Birdlife Park: Get up close to New Zealand's unique wildlife, including the kiwi bird, in a natural setting.
Adventure Sports: Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of the world, offering paragliding, skydiving, mountain biking, and more.
Plus, many more experiences tailored to your interests (please share what you love!)
Day 12
Driving Time: 1 hour 15 minutes driving return, 47km
Stay: Scenic Suites Queenstown
Meals: Breakfast included
Lift Pass + Rental for The Remarkables (Includes Skis or Snowboard, Boots + Poles)
Your Day: Ski/Snowboard The Remarkables
This morning you will head to the top of the Remarkables to hit the slopes. The Remarkables are a superb place to test out the New Zealand conditions. This world-class ski field really lives up to its name! There are breathtaking views to be admired, both from the slopes and from look out spots on the drive, featuring 360-degree views of Queenstown and the lake below and also many sites used in The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. The Remarkables features a fantastic network of progressive terrain parks with wide, gentle slopes for beginners of all ages and big mountain steeps for the experts in the family. This field also boasts purpose built snow tubing lanes. After a fantastic day skiing we will head back down to Queenstown where there is the opportunity to dine in one of Queenstown’s many fine lakefront establishments. Your ski package today includes lift passes & recreational skis/snowboard + boot & pole hire (Helmets additional. Goggles and gloves cannot be hired, only purchased).
Day 13
Meals: Breakfast Included
Rental Car Return
Your Day: Queenstown Departure Day
Today you will transfer to Queenstown Airport for your further travel arrangements. We trust you've had a wonderful time here in New Zealand!
Onward flight is not included.
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Step One.
Enquire by filling out our form with a few more details about your driving holiday plans. Our driving holiday experts will be in touch to discuss options and ideas with you.
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Step Two.
We will help match you to your perfect New Zealand driving holiday itinerary, complete with all the destinations you want to visit and any additional activities you would like to include.
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Step Three.
Once you are happy with everything, we can take a small deposit and you can get excited to hit the open road and explore New Zealand. With our 24/7 support, you can rest easy knowing that everything is arranged.