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.

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Distance: 225km (140miles)

Your motorhome adventure begins today! This morning, you’ll be transferred to the depot to collect your vehicle before heading south from Christchurch across the Canterbury Plains to beautiful Lake Tekapo, where you’ll spend the next two nights.

On arrival, admire the lake’s striking turquoise waters and visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd. You could also enjoy a relaxing soak at Tekapo Springs or, after dark, experience some of the world’s best stargazing beneath the clear southern skies.

Make the most of your stay with an optional scenic drive to Mount Cook National Park, following the shores of Lake Pukaki with spectacular views of the Southern Alps. Explore one of the walking trails, including the popular Hooker Valley Track, visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre or take a boat trip to see icebergs on the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake. Return to Lake Tekapo for a second night surrounded by breath-taking alpine scenery.

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Distance: 266km (181miles)

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.

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Distance: 288km (179miles)

Today, leave Dunedin behind and travel west through the rolling countryside of Otago towards Lake Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Enjoy the scenic drive through rural landscapes and charming Southland towns before arriving in Te Anau, where you’ll spend the next two nights.

Take time to explore the lakeside town, stroll along the shores of Lake Te Anau or relax at a local café and enjoy the mountain views. You could also visit the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary to spot native wildlife or discover the fascinating underground glowworm caves on a guided boat tour.

On Day 10, enjoy an included excursion to spectacular Milford Sound, travelling along the scenic Milford Road through the heart of Fiordland National Park. On arrival, board a cruise to admire cascading waterfalls and the dramatic peaks rising from the fjord. Lunch is included, giving you time to sit back and take in this unforgettable natural wonder before returning to Te Anau for your second night.

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Distance: 180km (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 12, enjoy an included excursion featuring a farm demonstration, a scenic cruise aboard a vintage steamship and a delicious BBQ meal.

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Distance: 100km (60miles)

Today, leave historic Arrowtown behind and follow State Highway 6 through the spectacular Kawarau Gorge towards Wanaka. The scenic drive winds past rugged cliffs, vineyards and the turquoise waters of the Kawarau River. Stop at the famous Kawarau Bridge, home to the world’s first commercial bungy jump, to watch the thrill-seekers take the plunge.

Continue through the Gibbston Valley, renowned for its vineyards and Central Otago wines, before heading through Cromwell, where you can browse local fruit stalls and enjoy a break by Lake Dunstan. From here, travel north through the picturesque countryside to Wanaka, a beautiful lakeside town framed by the Southern Alps. On arrival, take a stroll along the lakefront, explore the cafés and shops or visit the famous Wanaka Tree, one of New Zealand’s most photographed landmarks.

Distance: 340km (213miles)

Journey towards the West Coast, travelling through some of New Zealand’s most spectacular landscapes. Cross the Haast Pass, winding through lush forests, waterfalls and dramatic river valleys. Be sure to stop at the Blue Pools or Thunder Creek Falls for a short walk and a chance to experience the region’s incredible natural beauty.

Continue north along the rugged coastline, where rainforest meets the Tasman Sea, before arriving at Franz Josef, your base for exploring this remarkable glacier region. Depending on your arrival time, take a stroll through the village or visit the nearby glacier viewpoints for a glimpse of the ice-carved landscape. You could also enjoy a scenic helicopter flight over the glaciers and Southern Alps for a truly unforgettable experience.

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Distance: 273km (170miles)

Travel north and travel through Hokitika, known for its jade (pounamu) and artisan galleries, before stopping to admire the dramatic coastline at Hokitika Beach.

Your destination is Carters Beach, just outside Westport, where you’ll spend the night beside a beautiful stretch of sandy coastline. Take a walk along the beach, enjoy the peaceful seaside setting or head into Westport to explore the local cafés and shops. If time allows, visit Cape Foulwind for a scenic coastal walk and the chance to spot seals basking on the rocks.

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Distance: 222km (138miles)

Today you’ll turn inland towards the beautiful Nelson Tasman region, known for its golden beaches, native forests and sunny climate. Travel through the Buller Gorge, where the road follows the winding river between towering rock faces and lush hillsides. There are opportunities to stop along the way to admire the scenery or stretch your legs before continuing towards Nelson and the coastal village of Kaiteriteri.

Arriving in Kaiteriteri, you’ll find a lovely golden-sand beach overlooking the clear waters of Tasman Bay. Take a stroll along the shoreline, relax by the water or enjoy the coastal views. Kaiteriteri is also the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park, where you can join a scenic boat cruise, explore secluded beaches or discover part of the famous coastal walking track. 

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Distance: 115km (72miles)

Enjoy another scenic day on the road as you make your way to Picton. Follow the coastal route around Nelson, where sparkling seascapes, sheltered bays and bobbing yachts create a beautiful backdrop for the journey. Continue through forested hills and winding mountain passes, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views along the way.

Take time to explore the historic town of Havelock, known as the Greenshell Mussel capital of the world. Enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring the local seafood, perhaps paired with a glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, or browse the town’s galleries and craft shops.

Continue through the picturesque Marlborough region towards Picton, a charming waterfront town nestled at the head of the Marlborough Sounds. On arrival, enjoy a stroll around the marina, browse the local shops or relax by the waterfront ahead of your next adventure.

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Distance: 28km (18miles)

Today, board the ferry for a scenic crossing of Cook Strait to the North Island. The journey is a highlight in itself, as the ferry winds through the beautiful Marlborough Sounds, with forested hills, secluded bays and sparkling waters providing a memorable farewell to the South Island.

Arrive in Wellington, the nation’s vibrant capital, where you’ll spend the next two nights. There’s plenty to explore, from Te Papa National Museum, where you can discover the country’s history and Māori heritage, to a ride on the iconic Wellington Cable Car for sweeping views across the city and harbour.

You could also wander along the waterfront, explore the cafés and boutiques or visit the beautiful Wellington Botanic Garden. With two nights in the city, there’s time to soak up its lively arts scene, excellent food and welcoming atmosphere.

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Distance: 322km (200miles)

Head north through the picturesque Wairarapa region, passing rolling farmland, charming rural towns and open countryside as you make your way towards the east coast and Napier.

Known as the Art Deco capital of the world, Napier is a delight to explore, with its distinctive 1930s architecture, waterfront promenades and relaxed seaside atmosphere. Take a stroll through the town centre to admire the beautifully preserved buildings or visit one of the local cafés before discovering the wider Hawke’s Bay region, renowned for its award-winning wineries and excellent food.

Venture to Cape Kidnappers, home to one of the world’s largest mainland gannet colonies, where spectacular coastal scenery makes for a memorable visit.

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Distance: 222km (138miles)

On your way to Rotorua, 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 the remarkable geothermal city, Rotorua. 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, experience Māori culture with an included traditional hāngī feast and cultural performance, shared with your fellow travellers.

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Distance: 243km (151miles)

Drive across the volcanic plateau and along the Bay of Plenty coastline to the popular beachside towns of Mount Maunganui and Tauranga. You might like to stretch your legs and climb ‘The Mount’ for picturesque views along the coastline.

Continue to the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula, renowned for its rugged coastline, golden beaches, stunning scenery and vibrant arts and crafts scene. Visit world-famous Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own natural hot pool in the sand, just metres from the Pacific Ocean. 

Alternatively, explore the spectacular Cathedral Cove, where a magnificent natural archway connects two secluded beaches. Take time to browse local art galleries, relax in a laid-back café or simply soak up the beauty of this picturesque coastal region.

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Distance: 225km (140miles)

Travel north today to the Hibiscus Coast and Red Beach, where a beautiful stretch of sand and sparkling sea awaits. It’s the perfect place to relax after your drive and enjoy an overnight stay by the coast. With its east-facing shoreline, Red Beach is also an ideal spot to rise early and watch the sun come up over the Pacific Ocean.

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Distance: 229km (142miles)

Continue towards Russell, nestled in the beautiful Bay of Islands, a region famed for its sheltered bays, sandy beaches and rich maritime history. After your journey, settle in for a relaxing three-night stay in this charming waterfront town, with plenty of time to explore its historic streets and enjoy the laid-back coastal atmosphere.

During your stay, discover New Zealand’s history at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, take a sailing trip among the picturesque islands or simply enjoy the beaches and waterfront cafés. For a memorable day out, consider an excursion to Cape Reinga, at the northern tip of New Zealand, where the Tasman Sea meets the Pacific Ocean.

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Distance: 258km (160miles)

Today, return your motorhome in Auckland, New Zealand’s vibrant harbour city, where life revolves around the water. With the rest of the day free to explore, there’s plenty to see and do. Take a ferry to Waiheke Island to discover beautiful beaches, coastal scenery and boutique vineyards, with wonderful views back towards the city skyline.

Alternatively, head up the iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views across Auckland and its sparkling harbour, or enjoy a stroll along the waterfront and explore the city’s cafés, restaurants and shops.

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