This New Zealand Express itinerary is for those short on time who want to see the best of the North and South Islands.
Embark on a custom tour package to experience the highlights of both the North and South Islands in just 9 days. Begin your adventure with Rotorua, the hub of New Zealand’s geothermal activity and rich Māori culture. Marvel at the bubbling mud pools, erupting geysers, and soothing hot springs. Enjoy a traditional Māori cultural performance and feast at a hāngi dinner. Wander through the stunning Redwood Forest and relax in natural hot springs.
Journey to the South Island to explore the magnificent Franz Josef Glacier, one of the few glaciers in the world surrounded by lush rainforest. Experience the awe-inspiring ice formations and take a guided glacier walk or a scenic helicopter flight for breathtaking views. Conclude your tour with two nights in Queenstown, the adventure capital of the world. Enjoy thrilling activities such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and jet boating, or simply relax and take in the stunning lakeside scenery.
This New Zealand Express package offers the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. The best part is that this is your tour, done your way. Furthermore, all our itineraries are fully customizable to suit your unique travel style and interests. If you have extra time, we can easily extend your trip to include more incredible destinations. Sit back, relax, and let us craft the journey of your dreams!
Build your own tour
The activities listed above are just a glimpse of what’s possible! We pride ourselves on creating bespoke experiences tailored to your interests and desires. If you have specific activities or destinations in mind, let us know, and we’ll craft a personalized itinerary just for you. Every journey is unique, and we’re here to make yours perfect. Dream big – your adventure is waiting to be customized!
9-day journey exploring x key destinations across New Zealand's diverse landscapes.
DAY 1
Auckland Arrival
DAY 2
Auckland to Rotorua via Hobbiton
DAY 3
Rotorua
DAY 4
Rotorua to Auckland Airport via Waitomo Glow Worm Caves, Fly to Christchurch
DAY 5
Christchurch to Franz Josef Glacier
DAY 6
Franz Josef Glacier to Lake Wānaka
DAY 7
Wānaka to Queenstown
DAY 8
Queenstown
DAY 9
Queenstown Departure Day
DAY 1
DAY 2
DAY 3
DAY 4
DAY 5
DAY 6
DAY 7
DAY 8
DAY 9
DAY 1
Auckland Arrival
Guided: Upon arrival at Auckland Airport, a shuttle driver will be waiting for you as you clear customs. This driver will take you to your accommodation in the city. The day and night are free to spend at your leisure and your guide will meet you tomorrow morning.
Self Drive: Upon arrival at Auckland 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.
Today you farewell the ‘City of Sails’ and head south to Rotorua; a hot spot for Māori culture and geothermal activity. En route you will visit Hobbiton and The Shire’s Rest, the only remaining film set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies. You’ll also enjoy a buffet style feast in the festive marquee next to the Green Dragon!
Arrive in Rotorua in the late afternoon and perhaps explore Kuirau Park mud pool reserve and view the stunning government gardens and lakefront.
This evening you will experience Wai Ariki Hot Springs and Spa. Wai Ariki is uniquely built on the legacy of Ngāti Whakaue culture, healing practices and manaakitanga – the centuries-old and internationally-renowned Ngāti Whakaue concept of welcoming manuhiri (visitors). Nestled on the foreshore of the stunning Lake Rotorua and meaning ‘Chiefly Waters’ – Wai Ariki offers two architecturally stunning and culturally authentic areas for you to explore, unwind, rejuvenate and relax.
Your first stop for the day is Waimangu Volcanic Valley – a Wonderland of Stunning Geothermal Activity. You will see the world’s largest hot spring, sinter terraces and stunning hot and cold pools of many different colours. You’ll also enjoy a cruise above the once famous Pink and White Terraces, buried by the eruption of Mt Tarawera in 1886.
This afternoon you will take a guided walk around Te Puia where you will experience mud pools and geysers and visit the Māori Weaving School and Kiwi House. This is a chance to see our national bird up close.
This evening you will enjoy an authentic cultural experience at Te Pā Tū (formerly Tamaki Māori Village). In the summertime, Te Pā Tū offers their Summer Harvest Celebration experience, “Tū Te Rā.” Tū Te Rā is a summer celebration, aligned with the maramataka – the Māori lunar calendar. This is a time when the sun expresses optimal energy, the days are longer, and light nourishes the natural world. Tū Te Rā celebrates the abundant harvest of this season, and explores concepts, rituals, and stories of ancient Māori warfare and peace in a feast of culture and cuisine.
Rotorua to Auckland Airport via Waitomo Glow Worm Caves, Fly to Christchurch
YOUR DAY
321km, 4 hours driving + 1 hour 20 minute flight
Your first stop for the day is Waitomo – New Zealand’s most extensive underground caving network.
Here you will enjoy a long and gentle boat ride beneath a galaxy of glowworms, avoiding big crowds by joining a small group tour, in private caves. Spellbound are close by Waitomo Caves, and a little off the beaten track, visiting a rugged and scenic limestone studded farm.
Following this you continue to Auckland, where you depart the North Island and fly South to New Zealand’s mainland, arriving in Christchurch in the evening.
Today you will drive through the mighty Southern Alps to Arthurs Pass National Park. Keep a look out for the Bealey River as well as the reflective waters of Lake Pearson and Lake Lyndon. Our favourite nature walk in this national park features a stunning 150 metre waterfall and spectacular views of the mountains as you peek through native beech forest. Be sure to keep a look out overhead for the Kea (New Zealand’s cheeky native alpine parrot)!
Driving further, you will reach the West Coast and the Tasman coastline. Detour inland where you can visit the stunning Hokitika Gorge to marvel at its beautiful bright blue waters and surrounding native forest.
Continue further south through the rainforest to the town of Franz Josef glacier, nestled at the base of the towering alps and surrounded by dense native bush.
This evening you will enjoy a soak at Waiho Hot Tubs. Relax and unwind in the soothing comfort of fresh, warm water and aromatic wood smoke. Enjoy your own private tub, nestled in lush rainforest.
This morning you will fly over both the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, soaring first over the townships and then following the ice of the glaciers high up into the upper reaches. Land in the snow at the head of one of the glaciers and survey the path the glacier has carved below you. Franz Josef Glacier is one of only three glaciers in the world to be surrounded by rainforest!
One of the most dramatic journeys in the country is what you can experience on your drive over the Haast Pass through to Wānaka. En route you will visit Lake Matheson, otherwise known as ‘Mirror Lakes’ where on a clear day it is possible to see the reflection of New Zealand’s highest mountain Aoraki/Mt Cook (3754m/12,316ft). The walking possibilities are endless today around Haast and Haast Pass and you can choose from several nature walks, some of which feature spectacular waterfalls and deep blue coloured pools where it is possible to see trout swimming. One of our favourite spots at The Road Trip is Ship Creek, an isolated beach featuring native totara trees hugging rugged coastline.
Tonight you stay in Wānaka, one of New Zealand’s most popular holiday spots.
This morning in Wanaka there are several options. Perhaps enjoy a horse-back ride in the Cardona Valley, hire a paddle boat or kayak on the lake, climb up Mt. Iron for stunning 360 degree views, or try out Puzzling World.
Next up, your South Island tour takes you to the beautiful town of Arrowtown via The Crown Range, New Zealand’s highest highway. Arrowtown was an important location in the gold rush of Central Otago in the 1860s and is now a historic town with a very special vibe. Perhaps browse the preserved Chinese gold mining village or wander the boutique shops the town has on offer.
This evening you will enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience – a delicious gourmet BBQ buffet meal and a farm demonstration in a stunning lakeside setting, after crusiing across Lake Wakatipu in a 110 year old steam ship – The T.S.S Earnslaw.
This morning you’ll be taken on a thrilling jet boat ride down the beautiful Shotover River! Enjoy twists, turns and spins through this remarkable landscape.
In the afternoon, take a trip to the top of the Skyline Gondola to see Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables from the best vantage point. After admiring the view, its time to try the luge! Jump in your specialised luge cart and enjoy a thrilling, gravity fuelled downhill ride. Take it easy on the blue track or zoom around the curves and over the bumps of the red track, then hop on the chairlift and do it all over again – once is never enough!
The rest of the day is free to explore Queenstown at leisure and take part in some of the fantastic activities that this ‘Adventure Capital of the World’ has to offer. Options for the adventurous include: skydiving, bungy jumping, , canyon swings, white water rafting, flyboarding and paragliding.
If you feel like taking a more relaxed approach to the day, a walk through Queenstown’s Botanic Gardens is not to be missed. Perhaps drive out to the head of Lake Wakatipu and experience the breath-taking scenery of the Glenorchy Lagoon.
Your choice of accommodation. Silver (4 star), gold (5 star) or platinum (luxury lodge) options available
Most breakfasts, select lunches and dinners
A choice of self-drive and privately guided transport
In-depth and detailed custom travel guide
Listed activities (the list is fully customisable)
Full insurance coverage on rented vehicles
Overnight parking where necessary
Custom tour creation with one of our travel experts
What’s not included?
Return international flights
Personal travel insurance
Some lunches and dinners
Individual shopping and souvenirs
Extra, optional activities
Why book a privately guided road trip
Bespoke Itineraries
Bespoke Itineraries
Personalised tours tailored to your preferences
Authentic Kiwi Experiences
Authentic Kiwi Experiences
Genuine insights into New Zealand's culture
Flexible Bookings
Flexible Bookings
Secure and adaptable travel arrangements
Private Travel Safety
Private Travel Safety
Safe, crowd-free, intimate exploration
Local Expertise
Local Expertise
In-depth knowledge from a Kiwi-owned business
New Zealand's Top Awarded Tours
New Zealand's Top Awarded Tours
Winner of Tripadvisor’s ‘Travelers choice’ over multiple years & our 100+ 5 star reviews
There's never a dull moment on a 9-day tour that covers both the North and South Islands! I understand that coordinating time off work and aligning schedules with loved ones can be challenging. With 11 years of experience in tour guiding and designing itineraries, I will ensure you get the most out of your New Zealand trip, regardless of its length. With me as your guide, this action-packed tour will also be a relaxing and unforgettable experience.
Alex
General Manager
Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I get to the South Island?
This tour includes a flight from Auckland to Christchurch, making the transition between the North and South Islands smooth and convenient. Although direct flights between Rotorua and Christchurch are limited and can present challenges with rental car arrangements, we handle all the logistics for you. If you prefer to skip visiting Waitomo, we can arrange a direct flight for an even more seamless experience.
Can we add Milford Sound to the itinerary?
Yes, we highly recommend adding Milford Sound to your itinerary. To fully experience this breathtaking destination, we suggest adding at least 2 extra days to your tour, as it is a long journey from Queenstown unless you opt for a scenic flight. This way, you can enjoy the stunning landscapes without feeling rushed.
Can I have a guide only for the South Island?
Absolutely! You can choose to have a guide for the South Island portion of your tour, or for the North Island, depending on your preference. We offer flexible options to ensure you get the guidance and expertise you need while still having the freedom to explore at your own pace.
How do I adjust to jet lag?
Most travelers find it helpful to have a relaxing day upon arrival to adjust to jet lag. Our itineraries are designed to accommodate this, allowing you to rest and acclimate before diving into the adventure. By the following day, you’ll be ready to explore and make the most of your New Zealand experience.
Dear Yamila & The Road Trip Team
Thank you for your making my Sydney-Gold Coast Road Trip a smooth one. I would say there wasn't any hiccup along the trip. Everything well taken care of; from airport transfer to hotel bookings to rental car and some tour bookings. My family really enjoyed the holiday. What I really love was the freedom to drive anywhere with recommendations to go. It was very comprehensive. My kids loved the hotels you booked for us, especially the Anchorage and Pepper Soul! You made our maiden road drive in Australia to a new level. It is definitely an memorable experience. We are already thinking of another road trip in Australia!
Thank you once again!
Flyer786747
Jun 2024
21-Day Australia Trip
21-day Australia trip was fabulous. We didn't want to drive the Australian roads, so The Road Trip organized all of the hotels, transportation and guided tours. The Road Trip team, especially Yamila, had everything planned and they even helped make changes as new opportunities came up. The trip itinerary appealed to everyone as there was the perfect combination of beach, sightseeing, tours, downtime, and outdoor activities. Our favorites included: penguin parade, full-day snorkel tour, night walk tour in the rainforest, and the canyon hike through the Blue Mountain National Park. All six of us agreed that we couldn't have seen or done as much as we did if it wasn't for The Road Trip team. We will be contacting you again for our next trip!
Linda E
Mar 2024
They do all the work, you have all the fun!
I want to thank Road Trip Australia for planning and coordinating such a great itinerary. I wouldn’t have known where to start doing it on my own. They made it easy. The packet they provided was full of good information and allowed me to maximize the time that I had to tour. I definitely recommend them to plan your trip.
Elizabeth B
Nov 2020
21 Day Self Driving/Guided Australian Holiday
The Road Trip put together our recently completed self-driving tour of Australia. They were easy to work with and did an outstanding job of arranging our accommodations and travel in country (both driving and flying). We started in Melbourne with an excellent tour of the central city. We then heading over to the Yarra Valley for two nights. It’s an area known for its vineyards and wine making. Then it was off to the Great Ocean Road for two days of beautiful beaches and great stops recommended by The Road Trip. We spent two days in charming Port Fairy at a great boutique hotel. Then it was back to Melbourne to head to Sydney. Some weather issues prevented us from traveling as planned but we did spend a day and a half in Sydney with the highlight being a climb to the top of the Harbor Bridge. After Sydney we spent two days in the Blue Mountains. Our plans were limited by the recent fires which was disappointing. We spent one day in the Hunter Valley and if you are into wine another day would be appropriate. Then back to Sydney to fly up to the Great Barrier Reef. The rainforests and reef were magical. Wavelength did a great job with the reef snorkeling tour. It was then back to Melbourne for the Australian Open which was a blast. Then finally a trip to Phillip Island to watch the penguins come back to their burrows after a busy day in the sea. Overall a memorable trip and it was logistically very easy with The Road Trip.