Wander amongst the vineyards and enjoy a few wine tastings as you go
Spot whales and dolphins off the coast of Kaikoura
Tuck into delicious lamb cutlets in New Zealand
Soak up the scenery of the Marlborough Sounds
Drive through the beautiful Kaikoura Peninsula
Eat wonderful meals amidst the wineries of Wellington
Explore the blue bays and green islands of Marlborough Sounds
Try local New Zealand mussels with tomato sauce
This 2-week New Zealand holiday package takes you on a tour of New Zealand’s South Island, staying in luxury accommodation as you travel. With your own vehicle, you’ll have the freedom to drive when you choose and we’ve added in some special trips to enhance your holiday even further; from whale watching in the waters of Kaikoura to a gourmet meal on board Christchurch’s traditional tram.
Spend time tasting your way through the country, including the many culinary delights of Auckland, tasting local produce in Wellington and wine tasting through the pretty vineyards of Marlborough.
This itinerary can be tailored to suit your requirements. Contact one of our consultants to start planning your dream New Zealand trip.
Depart the UK from your chosen airport.
On arrival in Christchurch, you'll pick up your car at the airport and drive into the city to check in at your hotel for 2 nights.
Today is yours to explore Christchurch. Why not visit the famous Cardboard Cathedral or browse the farmers market for a delicious lunch to eat in Hagley Park?
This evening, head over to the Christchurch Tramway Restaurant, where you'll enjoy a delicious four courses as you complete 5 laps of the tram line.
This morning you'll drive north to Kaikoura, where you'll check into your hotel for 2 nights.
We have included a whale watching cruise during your stay, be on the lookout for humpbacks, blues and giant sperm whales, all visitors to the waters around Kaikoura.
Head north to the town of Blenheim, where you'll check into your hotel for 2 nights.
New Zealand's most famous wine region; Marlborough is packed with pretty vineyards and is renowned for its fine wines. Be sure to explore the vineyards and enjoy a few wine tastings as you go.
You will be heading to the picturesque Marlborough Sounds today, head north and leave your car at the rental office in Picton located near the ferry terminal. You will then be collected and taken to your hotel situated right in the sounds, by boat, where you'll stay for 2 nights.
Spend your time exploring the blue bays and green islands of Marlborough Sounds, whether by boat, kayak or on foot.
Today you'll return to Picton and take the ferry through the Cook Strait to Wellington. Here you'll collect your car and continue to your hotel, where you'll check in for 2 nights.
This morning, you'll embark on a half day tour to discover the Café Capital - you'll be introduced to the city and it's local tastes and products. Taste culinary treasures and meet the people behind some of the city's best food.
The afternoon is free so why not explore the capital? Head to the Te Papa Museum to learn more about the country’s history or visit Parliament House and watch the debates.
Today, you will be collected from your hotel and transferred by private car to the airport to connect with your flight to Auckland.
On arrival you will be greeted and escorted by private transfer to your hotel where you will check in for 2 nights.
Take time to enjoy the biggest city in New Zealand - why not climb Mount Victoria and enjoy the views over the harbour towards the city or head to the harbour and see why Auckland is known as the 'City of Sails'.
You will be met at your hotel and taken to the airport for your international flight.
Why not add the Cook Islands to your holiday? Check out some of our flight exclusive trip ideas below...
Read Jess's "Discovering Gourmet New Zealand" blog
New Zealand is a year-round destination and there is always something to see and enjoy whatever time you decide to travel. High season runs from December to February (summer), prices will be at a premium at these times and availability limited so it is advisable to book in advance. March to April and September to November can be a great time to travel as the weather is fine and the crowds fewer. Low season is May to August (winter) for most of New Zealand, this is, however, the best time for skiing and so ski towns such as Queenstown will be at their busiest.
We’re experts in planning tailor-made holidays, so whether you’re looking for a luxury New Zealand holiday, ideas for a road trip or multi-stop flights to New Zealand with stopovers – let us help you with the planning. Our experts can tailor-make precisely the trip you’re looking for – this itinerary is purely a suggestion, so please contact us with your dates and requests, and we’ll put together a bespoke quotation for you.
12 nights in 4* boutique-style accommodation.
Hotels in this category include:
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