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NEW ZEALAND

New Routes. New Experience. New Zealand.
Unravel The Paradise Of The Pacific.

Trip Overview

New Zealand (or Aotearoa – land of the long white cloud), truly is one of the most picturesque and photogenic places on earth. A small island nation of just over 4.5 million people, New Zealand is located approximately 1,500km east of Australia and about 1,000km from the Pacific Islands. Due to its relative remoteness and being water locked, New Zealand was one of the last countries to be found and settled.

The country is made up of some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes, from vast mountain ranges, steaming volcanoes to sweeping coastlines. It is a natural playground for thrill seekers and adventurers and those who simply want to visit for the culture and landscapes.

Join us this December to explore this stunning country – also know as the paradise of the Pacific. Embarq’s 12 day Self-Drive Road trip starting from Auckland takes you through some of the most scenic routes all the way to the southern most tip of the country and ends in Queenstown.

Drive through mesmerizing landscapes surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pristine lakes. Take a Ski plane tour (optional) to land on one of the most famous glaciers and fly over Mount Cook. Stay overnight in a Cruise – and lose yourself to the stunning Milford sounds. Soak in the Maori culture as you experience their hospitality and warmth, get awed by some of most peculiar nature’s creations like the glow worm caves and thermal parks. Join the locals to bring in 2023 as we gather to witness some spectacular fire work show.

We will make sure this is the one of the most memorable road trips you will ever take. Are you ready to Embarq on a new experience?

About the trip

Travel Dates
22nd Dec 2024 to 3rd January, 2025
Duration
13 Days
Trip Cost
6,40,000/- Per Person ( Considering two people in one car on twin sharing basis)
Trip Style
Self-Drive Road Trip
Vehicle
Toyota RAV 4 or similar
Driving Distance
3000 kms (approx.)
Landscapes
Mountains, Fiords, Coastlines, Volcanoes
Activities
Glow worm cave and Hobbiton movie set tour
Star gazing / glacier explore experience and adventure activities

Route Map

Itinerary

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Day 1 Arrival in Auckland

Touch down in Auckland and enjoy a private transfer to your accommodation. Take some time to relax and unwind before picking up your self-drive rentals in the evening. Prepare for the adventures ahead as you embark on a journey through the scenic landscapes of New Zealand’s North Island.

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Day 2 Auckland to Rotorua

Embark on a magical journey through the Glow Worm Caves and delve into the enchanting world of these bioluminescent creatures. Explore the iconic Hobbiton Movie Set, stepping into the fantastical realm of Middle-earth. In the evening, immerse yourself in Maori culture with the Mitai Maori Experience and a captivating Night Geyser Tour.

New Zealand self drive tours - Embarq

Day 3 Rotorua to Wellington City

Indulge in the luxurious comfort of DoubleTree or QT accommodations, where modern elegance meets unparalleled hospitality. Relax and rejuvenate your senses with a soothing soak in the rejuvenating hot springs nearby. Immerse yourself in tranquility and unwind amidst the stunning natural beauty of your surroundings.

Road Trip Planners for Luxury New Zealand Self Drive Tours

Day 4 Wellington City to Hanmer Springs

Embark on a scenic ferry journey from Wellington to Picton, crossing the picturesque Cook Strait. Marvel at the stunning coastal landscapes and rugged mountain ranges as you glide across the tranquil waters. Enjoy the fresh sea breeze and panoramic views, creating unforgettable memories of your New Zealand adventure.

road-trip in New Zealand

Day 5 Hanmer Springs to Mt. Cook

The drive from Hanmer Springs to Mt Cook is a picturesque journey through the Canterbury region of New Zealand’s South Island. The journey offers stunning scenery throughout, including mountain vistas, turquoise lakes like Tekapo, and the rugged beauty of Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. It’s a drive that showcases the natural grandeur of New Zealand, with plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the views along the way.

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Day 6 Day break at Mt. Cook

Experience the majesty of Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak, with an unforgettable adventure. Marvel at the celestial wonders during a mesmerizing star-gazing session, then delve into the icy realm of glaciers on a thrilling explorer expedition. Prepare for an awe-inspiring journey amidst the stunning landscapes of Mt Cook.

New Zealand Self Drive Tours & Holidays

Day 7 Mt. Cook to Wanaka

A relaxed drive that offers stunning views of the Southern Alps passing alongside Lake Pukaki with its vibrant turquoise waters. Arrive at Wanaka a small town nestled along Lake Wanaka with its unique vibe and lovely cafes.

Self Driving Holidays in New Zealand

Day 8 Wanaka to Milford Sound

Enjoy the changing scenery as you drive from Wanaka to Milford Sound. From the rolling hills of Cardrona Valley as you descend towards Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with towering cliffs and dense rainforests. Finally, you arrive at Milford Sound to enjoy the overnight cruise. Explore the stunning views of Fiords cascading waterfalls, wildlife (seals, penguins & dolphins) and dramatic landscapes from the water.

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Day 9 Milford Sound to Te Anau

Enjoy the calm waters of the Fiords or indulge in some activities like kayaking and swimming. Come back to the shore by noon and drive to Te Anau, one of the most picturesque town in South Island.

customized road trips in New Zealand

Day 10 Te Anau to Queenstown

The drive from Te Anau to Queenstown, takes you along the edge of Lake Wakatipu, through the picturesque town of Kingston, and across the Southland plains. This stretch is relatively flat and offers a change of scenery with vast farmlands and rolling hills. Arrive in Queenstown the adventure capital of New Zealand.

New Zealand self drive tours in Queenstown

Day 11 Day break at Queenstown

Take a break from driving and indulge in some adventure sports like bungy jumping, sky diving or jet boating. Enjoy the vibrant Queenstown situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Indulge in the culinary delights while exploring the local market place or take gondola ride with captivating views overlooking the town.

New Zealand Road Trip Adventure

Day 12 Queenstown to Christchurch

The journey from Queenstown to Christchurch takes you through a variety landscapes in one day. Drive through the Kawarau Gorge, known for its rugged beauty and cross the Lindi pass offering stunning alpine scenery. Travel through the Canterbury Plains, with its patchwork of farmland and distant mountain views to arrive at Christchurch. Enjoy this relaxed drive with some local cuisine along the way.

Queenstown to Christchurch - New Zealand

Day 13 Fly back from Christchurch

Fly back from your journey’s end, relishing memories of scenic wonders and cultural delights. Departing from Christchurch, soar over the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island. Bid farewell to the majestic mountains, serene lakes, and charming towns, carrying with you the indelible experiences of your adventure-filled expedition.

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Contact Us: 98208 39133/ 77025 82221

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Motoring Experiences with Embarq

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