Bay of Islands and South Island escape
Off-the-beaten path New Zealand
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Auckland
Forget the city’s high-rise centre; the beauty of Auckland is the scenery surrounding it... -
Northland
The site of New Zealand’s earliest Maori settlement, Northland is the birthplace of New Zealand and home to its best beaches... -
Christchurch
Most travellers use Christchurch as a base for exploring the south island, but there is plenty to see in this upwardly-mobile city... -
Hokitika
An old gold-rush town, Hokitika is one of the West Coast’s few settlements... -
Queenstown
New Zealand’s adventure sports capital is a surprisingly small town, famously the birthplace of bungy jumping, it’d be possible to spend days here hiking, biking, rafting, canyoning, zip lining or riding the luge... -
Milford Sound
Even by New Zealand’s standards, Milford Sound is a truly spectacular sight... -
Queenstown
New Zealand’s adventure sports capital is a surprisingly small town, famously the birthplace of bungy jumping, it’d be possible to spend days here hiking, biking, rafting, canyoning, zip lining or riding the luge...
Start in Auckland’s bars, restaurants and cafes before travelling north to the sub-tropical Bay of Islands. Board a boat to cruise around the islands, snorkelling in the deep blue water, walking deserted beaches and exploring ancient Maori site, including Cape Reinga, where Maoris believe dead spirits come to rest. Fly to Christchurch on the south island and transfer to Hokitika on New Zealand’s wild west coast. Hike the West Coast Treetop Walk through ancient rainforest to the sound of birdsong, stargaze at night and visit Hokitika Gorge. Next, get adventurous in Queenstown by taking a helicopter tour over the city to Milford Sound for a cruise around waterfalls and rainforests. End your trip with the quintessential Queenstown experience – a bungy jump.
Key information
| Destinations | Queenstown, Milford Sound, Northland, Auckland, Hokitika, Christchurch |
|---|---|
| Activity | Beach, Active, Nature & Wildlife, Culture |
| Physical Level | Easy |
 Season |
January - December |
Suggested itinerary
Explore scenic Auckland
Day 1 in Auckland
Forget the city’s high-rise centre; the beauty of Auckland is the scenery surrounding it. From surf beaches to the islands of Hauraki Gulf, volcanic peaks to fertile farmland, it’s no surprise that the greater Auckland region features high in lists of the world’s most liveable places. This is the perfect introduction to New Zealand.
See ancient forests and empty beaches in Northland
Day 2–3 in Northland
The site of New Zealand’s earliest Maori settlement, Northland is the birthplace of New Zealand and home to its best beaches. Head to the Bay of Islands for dolphins and marine life, or Cape Reinga – the most spiritually significant site for Maoris – to learn more about the Maori afterlife.
See regeneration in action in Christchurch
Day 4 in Christchurch
Most travellers use Christchurch as a base for exploring the south island, but there is plenty to see in this upwardly-mobile city. Hit by a series of earthquakes between 2010-13 that destroyed many of its buildings, Christchurch is now an intriguing mix of cutting-edge architecture and historic buildings.
Cycle the West Coast Wilderness Trail from Hokitika
Day 5–7 in Hokitika
An old gold-rush town, Hokitika is one of the West Coast’s few settlements.
On a clear day there are views of Aoraki Mt. Cook from the blustery beach, and pieces of pounamu (jade) can sometimes be found there. The turquoise waters of the Hokitika Gorge, east of town, are a scenic setting for kayaking and short walks.
New Zealand’s wild west coast is linked by a single track through Greymouth, Kumara, Cowboy Paradise, Hokitika and Ross. The Hokitika to Ross section takes in wetlands, forests and old mills, before ending with views over Totara lagoon as you ride into Ross. The one-way trip takes about four hours.
Stopover in Queenstown
Day 8 in Queenstown
Make the 3.5-hour drive from Kaikoura to Christchurch airport, and fly on to Queenstown. Spend the evening enjoying the vibrant restaurants and bars.
Cruise Milford Sound
Day 9 in Milford Sound
Even by New Zealand’s standards, Milford Sound is a truly spectacular sight. Located in the southwest of the South Island, the beautiful fjord is packed with jaw-droppingly beautiful natural features, including Mitre Peak, rainforests and stunning waterfalls, such as Stirling and Bowen Falls.
Explore the adventure capital of the world
Day 10–11 in Queenstown
New Zealand’s adventure sports capital is a surprisingly small town, famously the birthplace of bungy jumping, it’d be possible to spend days here hiking, biking, rafting, canyoning, zip lining or riding the luge.
However, if you’re after something less strenuous, it’s worth noting that Queenstown also has excellent vineyards and an exciting food scene. Tour nearby wineries, and enjoying the views of the Remarkables and Lake Wakatipu. It’s not a “typical” South Island town, but don’t let that get in the way of enjoying this pretty place.
Where to stay
Classic
Fletcher Lodge
Situated just minutes from the heart of Dunedin, this property is a registered Historic Places Trust building and has been beautifully refurbished with elegant styling and modern amenities, surrounded by beautiful manicured gardens.
The four luxury rooms in the original house are richly furnished with antique, hand-carved furniture, cast-iron claw foot baths, underfloor heating, and French doors leading out to sunny private balconies overlooking the gardens and valley below.
Superior
Lochmara Lodge
This unique hideaway in the Marlborough Sounds is the perfect place to disconnect and soak up the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.
Surrounded by pristine bushland, Lochmara Lodge has no road access, with guests arriving via the private Lochmara Bay on a 15 minute boat ride from Picton. You can also hike or cycle in through the Queen Charlotte Track.
It offers spacious, comfortable units that are perfect for families, while couples can retreat to the romantic chalets with balconies overlooking the bay.
Deluxe
Greenhill Lodge
Greenhill Lodge is a historic homestead located in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, a stretch of beautiful coastline on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island.
The region’s rolling hills and winding rivers are perfect for fishing, swimming, golfing and canoeing, among other outdoor activities. This is also an agricultural region and you’ll be treated to local produce and wines from the vineyards here during your stay.
Book this itinerary
This route booked with one of our specialist tour operators would cost from £4,500pp. Pricing varies by accommodation class, and can be tailored to suit your budget.
Pricing is typically inclusive of hotels, transfers, meals, and all guided excursions and activities.
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