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Within GB: 01580 214 089 • International: +44 (0)1580 214 089
Explore the beauty of New Zealand on a journey from Christchurch to Auckland, where breathtaking scenery, welcoming people, and a rich blend of nature, culture, and history await. From towering snow-capped peaks and steaming geothermal landscapes to dramatic coastlines and the traditions of Māori heritage, there’s so much to uncover. New Zealand is the perfect destination for motorhome adventures.
Duration: 36 days
Holiday Type:
Escorted Motorhome Tours
Departure dates:
UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
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Board your chosen flight to Ōtautahi Christchurch. On arrival in New Zealand, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for a two-night stay. You have the opportunity to explore the city at your leisure where you can visit Quake City museum, wander around the botanical gardens or relax on a punt along the river Avon.
On Day 4, enjoy a welcome dinner and meet your fellow travellers on the tour.
Distance: 274km (170miles)
Your motorhome adventure starts today! In the morning you’ll be transferred to the depot to pick-up your vehicle. Once you’re ready you’ll head south out of Christchurch across the Rakaia River on the longest bridge in New Zealand. Drive across the Canterbury Pains towards Lake Tekapo. The views out along the lake, with its distinctive turquoise waters, are exceptional. Be sure to stop and view the tiny Church of the Good Shepherd, a photographer’s favourite. Head towards Lake Pukaki in the Mount Cook National Park, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Take the opportunity to explore World Heritage listed Mount Cook National Park. Covering over 70,000 hectares of breath-taking alpine scenery, the park is home to glacial lakes and New Zealand’s two highest peaks, Mount Tasman and, of course, Mount Cook.
Options include following the easy going trail along the Hooker Valley (one of the most popular in the park), passing tumbling rivers and over swing bridges or exploring the melting ice-face of the Tasman Glacier by boat and get up close to touch and taste 400 year old icebergs that have been calved into the murky waters of the lake. You may also like to visit the Sir Edmund Hilary Alpine Centre and Museum and enjoy stargazing into the southern skies with expert astronomers.
Distance: 266km (165miles)
Heading southwards through the Waitaki Valley and along the coastline, take time to stop at the mysterious Moeraki Boulders. Nestled on the beach and appearing to emerge from the sands at low tide, these boulders have an other-worldly feel to them.
Continue onto to Dunedin, affectionately known as ‘the Edinburgh of the South’. It is an endearing city of classical Victorian & Edwardian architecture and is a gateway to diverse wildlife of the Otago Peninsula. Half or full day cruises and tours of the Otago Peninsula are available, taking in the region’s wildlife, scenery and historic buildings including Lanarch Castle, the Royal Albatross Centre and Penguin Place. Options in Dunedin include tours of Cadbury Chocolate World and Speights Brewery, home of New Zealand’s most popular beer.
Distance: 204km (128miles)
Looking on a map, the drive from Dunedin to Invercargill via the Catlin’s may seem a short distance, but with its winding roads, its stunning coastal landscapes and numerous photo opportunities, it may take you a little longer than you first expected.
The Catlin’s are ecologically unique and are made up of native coastal bush and forest, waterways, beaches, birds, and sea life and combined with the coast’s temperamental weather, a journey through the Caitlin’s will no doubt be a memorable one.
Affectionately known as the "City of Water and Light", which refers to it’s long summer days, the frequent appearances of the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights), and the city’s location by the Waihopai River estuary, Invercargill has plenty of character and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
Distance: 155km (97miles)
From Invercargill you will drive through a patchwork of farmland and plains, dramatic coastal scenery and rolling hills before heading inland once more to Te Anau. Once in Te Anau, options here include an exhilarating jetboat ride, stopping at three of the actual film locations featured in the Lord of the Rings films, or you can visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves where a mystical underground world of waterfalls and incredible rock formations awaits.
The next day, we will take you on a full day excursion to Milford Sound where you get to take an extended nature cruise along the entire length of the Sound out to the Tasman Sea. Milford Sound is famous for the towering peaks that rise up almost vertically from the water as well as spectacular waterfalls, rainforests, and towering mountains.
Distance: 179km (112miles)
Follow the shores of Lake Wakatipu as you make your way to Queenstown, nestled beneath the striking Southern Alps. Take time to explore this picturesque town before continuing to Arrowtown for a two-night stay. Situated in the Otago region, Arrowtown is a charming historic gold-mining town, rich in heritage and well worth discovering.
On Day 13, enjoy beautiful views of The Remarkables mountain range, Coronet Peak and across Lake Wakatipu whilst dining at the Skyline Gondola restaurant with your group on the tour.
Distance: 340km (213miles)
View incredible scenery as you travel past the untouched native forests and pristine lakes of the World Heritage Westland National Park to South Island’s rugged West Coast. The glaciers of Fox & Franz Josef can be viewed on foot with a guided ice climb or from the air by helicopter, if the weather permits.
Distance: 273km (170miles)
With the Tasman Sea on one side and the Southern Alps mountain range rising up on the other, take it slowly and enjoy this scenic drive. Be sure to stop at Punakaiki and marvel at the bizarre limestone landscapes and powerful vents of ‘Pancake Rocks’, formed millions of years ago. Then make your way to Westport for an overnight stay.
Distance: 222km (138miles)
Continue onto the Kaiteriteri region, an area of diverse beauty that enjoys a Mediterranean-type climate. The stunning coastal forest and shoreline of nearby Abel Tasman National Park can be explored on foot, by kayak or on a leisurely cruise by boat. A popular option is the Kaiteriteri kayak excursion to Split Apple Rock, ideal for beginners and departing right from the beach.
Distance: 115km (72miles)
The drive to Picton is both scenic and engaging, follow the coastal road around Nelson, where sparkling seascapes and drifting yachts set the scene, before winding your way through forested hills and curving mountain passes.
Take time to stop in the historic town of Havelock where you can enjoy the local Greenshell Mussels with a chilled glass of Marlborough’s Sauvignon Blanc or browse the boutique galleries.
Distance: 28km (18miles)
Enjoy the scenic InterIslander ferry that takes you from the picturesque fishing village of Picton across the Cook Strait to New Zealand’s North Island. As the ferry leaves Picton you’ll sail through picturesque Queen Charlotte Sound, making the journey between the two islands an experience in itself.
Wellington is the nation’s capital and options here include a visit to the Te Papa museum to learn about the history of New Zealand and its Maori heritage. Or take a ride on the famous Wellington Cable Car to the top of Mt Victoria for spectacular panoramic views over the city and harbour.
Distance: 322km (200miles)
Drive north through the rural heartland of the Wairarapa region as you make your way to Napier, on the east coast of North Island, often referred to as the Art-Deco capital of the world. Napier is in the Hawke’s Bay region which is famous for its many vineyards that serve gourmet food to accompany award-winning wines. Alternatively you might enjoy the chance to view the world’s largest mainland gannet colony at Cape Kidnappers.
Distance: 222km (138miles)
On your way north today be sure to stop at the popular freshwater lake resort of Taupo. Nearby is the mighty Huka Falls, where the full force of the Waikato River flows from the lake through a narrow canyon.
Continue to Rotorua for a two-night stay in this remarkable geothermal city. The area is alive with natural wonders—volcanoes, geysers, steaming hot springs, mineral-rich lakes, and thermal vents. Highlights include Wai-o-Tapu, home to the vibrant Champagne Pool and the erupting Lady Knox geyser, or Te Puia Thermal Reserve in the historic Te Whakarewarewa Valley, where you’ll find bubbling mud pools, silica terraces, and the impressive Pohutu geyser.
On Day 26, enjoy an included traditional Maori hangi (feast) & cultural performance with your fellow travellers.
Distance: 243km (151miles)
Drive across the volcanic plateau and along the Bay of Plenty coastline to the popular beachside towns of Mount Maunganui & Tauranga. You might like to stretch your legs and climb ‘The Mount’ for picturesque views along the coastline.
Then head to your next destination the Coromandel Peninsula, a beautiful rugged area fringed with dozens of attractive beaches. It is a place where many Kiwis choose to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and is home to arts & crafts and stunning scenery. You can dig out your very own hot pool metres from the Pacific Ocean at world-famous Hot Water Beach, or head for Cathedral Cove where a huge arched cavern passes through the headland, joining up two secluded coves. Relax in the cafes and enjoy the art galleries or just taking in the wonderful scenery.
Distance: 225km (140miles)
Travel north today, heading for the Hibiscus coast to Red Beach and its beautiful stretch of sand and sea for an overnight stop. Located on the east coast, this is a perfect spot to rise early and watch the sunrise.
Distance: 229km (142miles)
Travel north to Russell in the stunning Bay of Islands, a protected National Maritime Park, via the ferry from Opua to Okiato. The charming town of Russell is an ideal spot to unwind and relax in the scenery during a three-night stay.
During your stay, consider a visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, a sailing boat excursion around the islands, or to New Zealand’s northernmost point at Cape Reinga, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Tasman Sea.
Distance: 258km (160miles)
Return your motorhome in Auckland, a vibrant harbour city where locals thrive on life by the water. You can explore the city at your own pace, whether on land or by sea. A trip to Waiheke Island is highly recommended, offering stunning views of the city skyline across the water. For a different perspective, the iconic Sky Tower provides panoramic views that capture Auckland from above
Bid farewell to new friends and depart New Zealand with unforgettable memories of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and cherished adventures that will stay with you forever.
Price per person is based on two people sharing, prices for solo travellers are available on request.
You have the choice of 2 types of motorhome for this tour. The prices displayed are based on the Maui Ultima 2 berth model or you can upgrade to the Maui Cascade 4 berth - please enquire for upgrade prices and availability. Click on the images for more details and specifications of each motorhome.
Our hosts for this tour all live in New Zealand and can't wait to share their passion for their home country with you. Each tour departure is led by one couple and you can click on their photos below to find out more about them.
Within GB:
01580 214 089
International:
+44 (0)1580 214 089
