• Home
  • 14 Days NZ South Island Highlights
  • Every package is a template, a starting point. Submit a booking enquiry and tell us what you would like to add or change. Or you can outline a special trip you have in mind and we'll plan it and price it for you using member benefits. We're 100% flexible. 4 ways we can benefit you...

    Package recently updated. Submit a booking enquiry to receive a travel plan customised to suit you.

    14 Days NZ South Island Highlights from $4,205pp $2,989pp after Getaway Cash travel credits:

    • Return direct flights
    • 14 days car hire
    • All silver and gold standard accommodation
    • VIP back-stage pass at Franz Josef wildlife centre to see the kiwi birds
    • Dinner at Queenstown's Stratosfare restaurant
    • Milford Sound coach tour and cruise with lunch
    • Olveston House guided tour Dunedin
    • Guided evening penguin tour Dunedin
    • Akaroa harbour nature cruise
    • Dinner at a top-rated French-themed restaurant in Akaroa

    Visit the glaciers, beautiful Wanaka and Dunedin plus a whole lot more. We can tailor this package to suit the number of days you have available. Save up to 27% off full retail value.

    Milford Sound
    Milford Sound

    FULL RETAIL VALUE: $4,205pp. YOU PAY FROM $2,989, SAVE UP TO $1,116pp.

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    Trip Highlights

    The South Island of New Zealand is picturesque to say the least. It’s about the many contrasts between oceans, rivers, gorges, mountains, glaciers, towns and lakes. As you drive this trip you’ll be able to indulge just about any area of interest from wineries to fly fishing, hiking to relaxing. You can do as much or as little as you want on this flexible trip that takes in many of the South Island’s favourite places.

    Enjoy these highlights*:

    • Visit many of the top destinations on the South Island
    • Stay at tried and tested, silver and gold standard accommodation
    • See the kiwi birds at Franz Josef wildlife centre
    • Take a scenic ride up to Queenstown's Stratosfare restaurant for dinner
    • Be enthralled by the spectacular sights of Milford Sound
    • Visit the wonderful penguins in Dunedin
    • See Akaroa, New Zealand's authentic French village and go on a nature cruise
    • Enjoy dinner at a top-rated French-themed restaurant in Akaroa
    • And a lot more

    Consider the optional twin glaciers helicopter flight.

    Global Escapes Travel

    In the style of most Global Escapes Independent Traveler itineraries, this is a perfect blend of self-guided adventure and forward-planning to ensure that the main elements are organised in advance allowing for plenty of time to relax and take in each place you visit.

    Package Pricing

    FULL RETAIL VALUE

    $4,205pp

    SAVINGS APPLIED

    -$1,116

    YOU PAY FROM*

    $3,089

    SAVING OFF FULL RETAIL VALUE (UP TO): 27%

    Discover the Travel Club Advantage

    Australian Escapes has been saving members money on their holidays now for over 20 years and we can do the same for you. You can start today for FREE!

    • Group buying power

    • Free travel planning services and advice; saves you time and money

    • The experience to help you avoid common and costly travel mistakes

    • Guaranteed savings and value; put us to the test

    • Exclusive travel benefits and free member services

    • No risk free trial, cancel anytime, invest a few dollars to save potentially $'000's.

    Quick Guide | Travel Club Free Trial

    Not yet a member? Submit a booking enquiry and we'll automatically register you for a 90-day free trial account. No obligation to book a trip or to remain as a member. There are no scams and no catches. This is a genuine travel club and you'll quicky discover how professional we are.

    FFV Valid AUSTRALIAN ESCAPES FREE FLIGHT VOUCHER (FFV) PACKAGES
    USE YOUR FREE FLIGHT VOUCHERS TO SAVE AN EXTRA $100 PER PERSON (YOU PAY FROM $2,989)
    USE YOUR FREE FLIGHTS VOUCHERS TO GET THE LOWEST PRICE! REQUEST PRICING FOR YOUR TRAVEL DATES TODAY...

    * All prices are per-person on a twin-share basis and bookings are subject to availability. The final price and deposit amount varies according to travel date. All prices are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Full booking terms and conditions are available HERE...

    We're on your side

    Members get the benefit of our expertise and low prices. We work for you so you don't have to try and learn how to be a travel expert overnight. You avoid costly mistakes and get much better value. READ MORE... Submit a booking enquiry to get a free 3-month, Travel Club Trial account.

    Inclusions

    "From turquoise lakes and lush peninsulas to snow-capped mountains and sparkling glaciers, the South Island's majestic landscapes offer awe and adventure in equal measure."

    This is a first-class, self-drive travel itinerary with hand-picked accommodation and activities that will ensure you really enjoy your NZ experience. This is the ultimate South Island self-drive itinerary. Want fewer days or you want to include a special activity? No problem, we’ll price it for you using your membership for the lowest price.

    This is a first-class travel itinerary that's fully flexible. Want more or fewer days or you want to include a special destination or activity? No problem, we’ll customise a travel plan for you.

    Package inclusions:

    • Return flights from Australia to Christchurch
    • 14 days car hire
    • 13 nights' silver and gold standard accommodation
    • Gondola ride and dinner at Queenstown's Stratosfare restaurant
    • VIP back-stage pass at Franz Josef wildlife centre to see the kiwi birds
    • Milford Sound coach tour and cruise with lunch
    • Olveston House guided tour Dunedin
    • Guided evening penguin tour Dunedin
    • Akaroa harbour nature cruise
    • Dinner at a top-rated French-themed restaurant in Akaroa

    All packages include:

    • Lonely Planet guide for New Zealand's South Island
    • No fees to alter the itinerary (you just pay for the adjusted itinerary)
    • Extra nights at industry wholesale price (using GCash travel credits)
    • Google Drive folder with soft copies of all travel documents
    • Comprehensive, printed itinerary
    • Personal travel consultant to help plan and customize your holiday
    • Option for best-in-class travel insurance at member price

    Carefully selected accommodation:

    Hotel standards

    Read about our accommodation rating standards and the methods used to assess quality.

    Fully customisable:

    This itinerary is fully customisable to suit your requirements. Your personal travel consultant is available to discuss changes and additions that will enhance your travel experience.

    Special value:

    Lonely Planet Logo

    Lonely Planet is renowned for its first-hand approach, up-to-date maps and commitment to providing the best information for travelers. Lonely Planet authors are experienced, insightful travel experts. They personally research the places they write about - both in the first and in subsequent editions - and provide essential travel details along with a wealth of insider information and first-hand tips.

    New Zealand - South Island

    You will receive this guide to help you gain the most out of your holiday. Recommendation: Take the time to read suggestions for things to see and do before you leave home. Take your Lonely Planet guide with you in your luggage.


    * All prices are per-person on a twin-share basis and bookings are subject to availability. Price and deposit amount varies according to travel date. If flights are shown as included then a flight cost provision (allowance) applies and is based on travel from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. Travel can be arranged from any other major centre and for any number of people. All prices shown are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Total price after member discount (using Getaway Cash travel credits and Australian Escapes Free Flights Vouchers if applicable) is generally payable as follows: Deposit on booking, balance 120 days prior to departure. Packages can be priced for families and groups on request. Standard price and full retail value comparisons are with similar packages offered elsewhere or what we estimate would be payable by a non-member for the same or similar package and may include a value we define for specialty travel agency services. Travel insurance if included is a provision only and may be declined on requestTravel insurance pricing if stated is based on comprehensive travel insurance for two travellers aged 69 years or less as at the date of departure from Australia. No recommendations or advice are given in regard to travel insurance suitability. Travel Directions Pty Ltd (t/as Australian Escapes Holiday & Travel Club) standard booking terms and conditions apply to all booking enquiries and bookings and are available here to view (or visit our website and go to either the "Booking Enquiry" or "About Us" menu item.)

    Your Itinerary

    There are numerous natural attractions to experience across the South Island and this itinerary immerses you in some of the best. You’ll stay in New Zealand’s versions of a French country village and a Scottish heritage town and on a couple of magnificent lakes. The scenery around Milford Sound as you cruise Fiordland National Park is magnificent. Read on to see more of what we have planned for you...

    "Not all those who wander are lost." - J.R.R. Tolkien

    Day 1: Arrive Christchurch (1 night)

    Arrive in Christchurch and be picked up by the car rental company’s driver who will take you to the depot where you will collect your car. After driving to your accommodation in the city, you'll have the remainder of the day to enjoy as you please.

    Day 2: Awatuna (1 night)

    Cross the Canterbury Plains to Awatuna, just north of Hokatika. For a late lunch, stop off at the Original Sheffield Pie Shop on the road before you get to Arthur’s Pass.


    Arthurs Pass nature walk

    The scenery changes as you cross the plain then constantly as you drive around hills, over mountain passes, across rivers and past lakes and gorges.

    Recommended activity: Stop at Arthur’s Pass and take one of the short nature walks.

    Your night will be at a B&B where you’ll experience wonderful hospitality and great home cooking.

    Day 3 & 4: Franz Josef (2 nights)

    Day 3: Drive to Franz Josef Glacier, local activities, free time.

    Day 4: Optional helicopter flight over Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier, local activities, free time.

    Today you’ll head off to visit the town of Hokatika, the home of hand-carved jade jewelry. If you like the look and feel of jade, this is the place to get it. Find your way to Hokatika Gorge as well to see the blue pools.

    Recommended activity: Visit Hokatika Gorge.

    Franz Josef Glacier was first explored in 1865 by geologist Julius von Haast, who named it after the Austrian emperor. The glacier is five kilometres from the town of the same name, and a 1.5 hour walk will take you to within 750m of its face.


    Franz Josef Glacier

    There's a range of natural attractions in close proximity to Franz Josef Glacier Village. Lose yourself in the rainforests, waterfalls, and lakes. In the town you’ll find plenty of places to stay and eat, or relax at the Glacier Hot Pools.

    Inclusions:

    • Franz Josef Wildlife Centre with special back-stage pass to see the kiwi birds.

    Day 5 & 6: Franz Josef Glacier – Wanaka (2 nights)

    Day 5: Drive to Wanaka taking in the scenery and nature stops along the way; enjoy the scenery; dine out at (recommended) “Trout” restaurant.

    Day 6: Optional half-day cruise and nature walk.

    Take your time to have a leisurely breakfast at one of the local cafes before heading off towards Wanaka. Visit the town of Fox Glacier on your way and take a detour to Lake Matheson where you might be lucky to see the famous reflection of snow-capped Mount Cook in the dark waters.


    Lake Matherson

    There are small towns to visit and the unmissable Southwest salmon farm and cafe is recommended for lunch.

    Nestled below towering mountains, Wanaka is the most tranquilly set of the South Island lakes. In winter, skiers flock here from all over the world for superb skiing and snowboarding at Cardrona and Treble Cone. But Wanaka is much more than a winter destination offering year-round activities include fishing and hiking.

    Days 7, 8 & 9: Queenstown (3 nights)

    Day 7: Drive the short distance to famous Queenstown; check-in to the hotel then drive or walk into town; enjoy the lake-front wharf area and shopping. Enjoy an evening to remember at Queenstown's Stratosfare restaurant.

    Day 8: Milford Sound tour and cruise.

    Day 9: Flexible time. Refer to your Lonely Planet guide for ideas.


    Queenstown's skyline rest

    Feel inspired by Queenstown’s stunning scenery, huge range of activities and renowned warm welcome. Surrounded by majestic mountains and set on the shores of crystal clear Lake Wakatipu, the natural beauty and the unique energy of the region create the perfect backdrop for a holiday full of adventure, discovery and rejuvenation.


    Lake view apartment

    There’s so much to see and do here. Simply refer to your Lonely Planet guide for extra ideas.

    Inclusions:

    • Milford Sound tour and cruise with lunch.
    • Dinner at Queenstown's Stratosfare restaurant.

    Recommended activity: Book a morning lake cruise from the booth located at Queenstown steamer wharf.

    Days 10 & 11: Dunedin (2 nights)

    Day 10: Drive to Dunedin. Enjoy the scenery and stops along the way. Visit Olveston House and the town.

    Day 11: Dunedin town and guided penguin viewing.

    Known as the Edinburgh of New Zealand, Dunedin is the country's city of the south, wearing its Scottish heritage with pride. Surrounded by dramatic hills and at the foot of a long, picturesque harbour, Dunedin is one of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere.


    Dunedin railway station

    The nightlife buzzes with funky bars and delicious restaurants and the natural attractions are unique and fascinating.

    Inclusions:

    • Olveston House guided tour.
    • Guided evening penguin viewing.

    Days 12 & 13: Akaroa (2 nights)

    Day 12: Drive to Akaroa.

    Day 13: Akaroa nature cruise.

    Today is a long driving day so an early start is recommended. You ideally want to arrive in Akaroa by mid-afternoon to make the most of this idyllic town.

    The most French town in New Zealand, Akaroa will have you entranced with its historic buildings, magnificent harbour and passion for fine food. The best way to explore Akaroa is on foot. Begin at the information centre, which is on the corner of Rue Lavaud and Rue Balguerie.


    Akaroa lake

    You'll find brochures and maps that will help you to decide where to walk. Enjoy dinner at one of the best local French-themed restaurants and the wonderful nature cruise.

    Inclusions:

    • Akaroa nature cruise.
    • Dinner for two at one of our favourite restaurants.

    Day 14: Return to Australia

    It’s time to drive back to Christchurch and say farewell to New Zealand remembering the fun times you’ve had, interesting people you’ve encountered and the beautiful scenery you’ve experienced.

    Top

    Search All Packages

    When you start typing your destination into the search box, you will see a list of possible matches. Click on the closest match if any. Then click the "Search" button.

    My Accommodation Short-list
    Product Date Added Potential Saving Order of Preference Action
    Order Sort
    No records
     

    Hello , You currently have 0 items in your short list. Return to package search.