Highlights of New Zealand In Style
- Indulge in superior accommodations on a 2-week odyssey of New Zealand
- Spot bottlenose dolphins and crested penguins on a Milford Sound Cruise
- Take an unforgettable journey on the TranzAlpine train through the "Great Divide"
- Behold the beauty of the South Islands Fiordland and its alpine peaks
- Sample world-class local wines such as Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Auckland and overnightA private transfer brings you from the airport to the centre of Auckland (20-30 mins), a city blessed with a wonderful location, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Tasman Sea to the east. It is regularly rated one of the world's top cities to live in and you will enjoy exploring it today.
Of course you will also be getting over your jetlag (depending on where you have flown in from) so if this is the case an early night may be a good idea so you can embark on your epic journey through New Zealand feeling nice and refreshed.
This accomodation is nestled Among Heritage Buidlings, intimate Laneways, restaurants, bars and little boutiques. With its exterior of hand-made bricks to its beautifully timber-lined rooms, it fits perfect in its surroundings, the downtown waterfront Auckland, which is just outside the front door.
The QT Auckland is located right at the waterfront. You can look forward to a unique design in all the rooms. Start your vacation with a welcome drink on the hotel´s roof terrace.
This hotel is nestled right in the centre of Auckland City, within easy walking distance of a variety of restaurants, shopping facilities, and opportunities for live entertainment.
This morning, after a short walk to Queen’s Wharf in Auckland, take a ferry (25 mins) to Rangitoto, a volcanic island which arose from the sea in fiery explosions a mere 600 years ago.
Walk along the coastline through terrain that was formed from liquid lava, then make your way up to the summit, which is a great place to have a picnic lunch. There are 360 degree views over Waitemata Harbour and other islands and seeing Auckland from this alternate perspective is special.
This accomodation is nestled Among Heritage Buidlings, intimate Laneways, restaurants, bars and little boutiques. With its exterior of hand-made bricks to its beautifully timber-lined rooms, it fits perfect in its surroundings, the downtown waterfront Auckland, which is just outside the front door.
The QT Auckland is located right at the waterfront. You can look forward to a unique design in all the rooms. Start your vacation with a welcome drink on the hotel´s roof terrace.
This hotel is nestled right in the centre of Auckland City, within easy walking distance of a variety of restaurants, shopping facilities, and opportunities for live entertainment.
This morning you will be transferred to the car rental office and here you can pick up your rental car. Drive south to Rotorua (3H). Situated in the Bay of Plenty, Rotorua is the world’s most concentrated geothermal area, with spouting geysers, hot steaming pools, boiling mud and terraces. It is truly a volcanists dream! It also has an amazing Maori heritage and over 34% of its population is home to the Awara people.
There will be free time this afternoon to explore. Some highlights are the “Buried Village” which shows a first-hand insight into the chaos and mayhem that transpired on the night Mount Tarawera erupted, Hells Gate Geothermal Park which is set in 50 acres of land with a large variety of thermal features and Hamurana Springs, famous for its beautiful crystal clear fresh water springs which emanate from the ground and flow downstream into Lake Rotorua. It is the deepest natural spring in the North Island. At Hamurana Springs you will find a very picturesque 20 minute walking track which is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Nestled at the end of a private peninsula, this accomodation set in a 1930s mansion is where luxury meets tranquility. Enjoy unwinding in the lovely shared lounge or wandering the grounds to say hello to the resident animals and admiring the stunning views of the lake. The accommodation is just a short drive from Central Rotorua, the town centre with the Rotorua Museum and the famous Polynesian Spa.
Hana Lodge is located in the hills of Rotorua, surrounded by a 15 acre park perfect to unwind and relax. It is a 15 minute drive to the city and is an ideal base for exploring Geothermal parks, hiking trails, and hot pools. Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves are also easily accessible by car.
Koura Lodge is named after a small native fresh-water crayfish found in the streams, rivers and lakes around New Zealand and matching the name it is ideally located right at the lakefront. It´s just a five minutes’ drive to the city centre and even closer to many of Rotorua’s famous attractions.
Today you can visit Waimangu Volcanic Valley, where you can hike through the it and past the hot craters, springs and lakes of this unique hydrothermal and volcanic environment. This scenic reserve has an unspoilt beauty and is not to be missed. Also enjoy a visit to the Orakei Korako Thermal Park which boasts the most active geysers of any geothermal park in New Zealand. Up to 23 active natural geysers play freely through the area, which is constantly changing. Marvel at the number of boiling hot springs and the vibrant colours all around you, or take a native bushwalk through this untouched geothermal paradise.
Nestled at the end of a private peninsula, this accomodation set in a 1930s mansion is where luxury meets tranquility. Enjoy unwinding in the lovely shared lounge or wandering the grounds to say hello to the resident animals and admiring the stunning views of the lake. The accommodation is just a short drive from Central Rotorua, the town centre with the Rotorua Museum and the famous Polynesian Spa.
Hana Lodge is located in the hills of Rotorua, surrounded by a 15 acre park perfect to unwind and relax. It is a 15 minute drive to the city and is an ideal base for exploring Geothermal parks, hiking trails, and hot pools. Hobbiton and Waitomo Caves are also easily accessible by car.
Koura Lodge is named after a small native fresh-water crayfish found in the streams, rivers and lakes around New Zealand and matching the name it is ideally located right at the lakefront. It´s just a five minutes’ drive to the city centre and even closer to many of Rotorua’s famous attractions.
Today drive to Tongariro National Park (2H15) and enjoy the stunning beauty of this geothermal and volcanic terrain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The track to Taranaki Falls has excellent mountain views and crosses a range of land forms. The upper and lower tracks form a loop with the 20m falls situated around the halfway point. If you wish to take a longer walk you can continue on to Tama Lakes, which is well worth it as you will be surrounded by volcanoes.
Tongariro Suites is set in 1 hectare of New Zealand native landscaped gardens. While you are just a few hundred meters off the highway, you will be surrounded by only peace and quiet while admiring the views towards Mt Ruapehu from your suite across landscaped gardens. Relax in the guest lounge with wood burning fire or use the BBQ on the large guest deck that also features a cedar hot tub.
In a chalet-style building and annexes on the slopes of Mount Ruapehu, this relaxed, woodsy hotel is 4 km from the Hapuawhenua Viaduct and right at the doorstep of the famous Tongariro National Park. Enjoy the warm hospitality in a unique environment.
Marie and Bernie invite you to stay in their superior boutique bed and breakfast accommodation, and enjoy their hospitality. Experience a tranquil atmosphere and enjoy the expansive gardens. Relax in the comfort of your private courtyard. Located just 5km out of Ohakune and 15 minutes from Tongariro National Park, Ruapehu Country Lodge also backs onto the Waimarino Golf Course.
It’s a long drive today to reach the south of the North Island. (4H45) However, the scenery is excellent as you drive through rolling green farmland and in the distance you can spot snow-capped mountain peaks.
Arrive in Martinborough this afternoon, a little village surrounded by 35 vineyards. The Pinot Noir is famous there, but the whites are generally also very good. Among the famous estates surrounding Martinborough are Palliser, Tirohana, Ata Rangi, Escarpment, Craggy range, Alana Estate or Te
Kairanga. Many are found on Puruatanga road. Martinborough itself is a very friendly community with nice shops and restaurants.
Parehua Resort is located in Martinborough's famous vineyards, and welcomes you with extensive gardens to stroll around, relex and read and enjoy panoramic views of the Wairarapa wine region.
The Martinborough Hotel in a historic setting, is located right in the centre of Martinborough and offers boutique accomodation. All wineries are within walking distance.
Welcome to The White Swan, or as locals call it, The Swan. In this conic country hotel in the heart of Greytown, they celebrate the best of what the Wairarapa has to offer, through their food, beverages, accommodation, and warm rural hospitality.
Drive to Wellington (1H) and explore New Zealand’s capital city. Even though, as cities go, it is rather small, its compact nature gives it a bigger-city vibe. Being the capital, it has plenty of museums (we recommend the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa), theatres and galleries. It is nicknamed "Windy Wellington" due to its location in the Roaring 40's.
Drop off your car at Wellington Airport and take a flight to Queenstown (1H20) in the South Island, then drive to Te Anau (2H).
Overlooking Lake Te Anau and surrounded by colourful gardens, this laid-back hotel is a 2-minute walk from the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, a 10-minute walk from the town centre and 1 km from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre.
Dunluce offers light, modern en suite rooms enveloped by exquisite natural beauty. Situated within the wider Te Anau township, in a peaceful surrounding with breathtaking lake and mountain views.
The Cinema Suites are hidden away in the heart of Te Anau. The accommodation is inspired by nature & hand built by local craftsmen. Lake Henry and the Te Anau Glowworm caves are close by.
Drive up to Milford Sound from Te Anau (1H45), then sit back and relax as your cruise departs from Milford Sound Wharf, and makes its way out past the iconic Mitre Peak. Be sure to keep an eye out for seals basking in the sun, pods of dolphins or rare Fiordland Crested Penguins that can be found seasonally within the region.
On your way back down the Milford Highway you will pass the car park for the Divide, the beginning of the Routeburn Track. Park here and walk up to Key Summit. Immediately panoramic views of snow-capped peaks begin to unfold. Take the turn off to Key Summit and see views from the top which are unforgettable.
Ringed by snow-capped peaks, Te Anau stretches along New Zealand’s deepest and grandest lake of the same name.
Overlooking Lake Te Anau and surrounded by colourful gardens, this laid-back hotel is a 2-minute walk from the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, a 10-minute walk from the town centre and 1 km from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre.
Dunluce offers light, modern en suite rooms enveloped by exquisite natural beauty. Situated within the wider Te Anau township, in a peaceful surrounding with breathtaking lake and mountain views.
The Cinema Suites are hidden away in the heart of Te Anau. The accommodation is inspired by nature & hand built by local craftsmen. Lake Henry and the Te Anau Glowworm caves are close by.
Today will be an amazing drive through the central Otago region and through Fiordland to Wanaka (3H), gateway to some marvellous Great Walks. It is worth visiting Arrowtown en route which is located just north of Queenstown. There is something to delay most folk here amidst quaint streets, intimate restaurants, cool bars, and historic Chinese gold settlements. You can even take a short, but exhilarating walk up Queenstown Hill.
An avenue of 'tilea cordata' lime trees lend the Lodge its unique name and character. The rustic Central Otago exterior, featuring local schist stone, opens up into a modern and stylish interior, with no expense spared on making the surroundings comfortable for their guests. Enjoy their hospitality after a day of exploring the Wanaka region.
Trish and Barry have created an alpine hideaway where you can escape the hustle and bustle of busy lives, be it for a few hours or a few days. Some quiet time in paradise to recharge batteries. Barry who is an expert at everything and master of nothing , is always on hand to help plan your time in Wanaka and further afield, be it skiing, fishing, walking, wine tasting, biking or a game of tennis. The lodge has an on-site tennis court, swimming pool (heated in summer), sauna and gym, ski drying room and mountain bikes.
Edgewater is based right by Lake Wānaka, sitting at the edge of Lake Wānaka and designed to flow with the seasons, Edgewater is a place you’ll find nature at your own pace. Their in-house restaurant, Wineglass Cafe, offers seasonal menus for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
On the Roy’s Peak Track you can take in breath-taking views over Lake Wanaka, Mount Aspiring/Tititea and surrounding peaks after a steep climb through alpine meadows and tussock grasslands to the summit. This is a popular track and one of the best day hikes. Closed between October 1st and approximately November 10th due to lambing, other options are Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain Walk, which is shorter with an option to do a low level walk. Wanaka is a walker's paradise and there are plenty of hikes here to choose from.
If you would just like to explore the area today. One suggestion is to visit some local vineyards, less than an hour's drive towards Cromwell. You can taste very good pinot noirs there. Among our favourite wineries are Bald Hills and Mt Difficulty. The Mt Difficulty restaurant also serves great meals to share.
An avenue of 'tilea cordata' lime trees lend the Lodge its unique name and character. The rustic Central Otago exterior, featuring local schist stone, opens up into a modern and stylish interior, with no expense spared on making the surroundings comfortable for their guests. Enjoy their hospitality after a day of exploring the Wanaka region.
Trish and Barry have created an alpine hideaway where you can escape the hustle and bustle of busy lives, be it for a few hours or a few days. Some quiet time in paradise to recharge batteries. Barry who is an expert at everything and master of nothing , is always on hand to help plan your time in Wanaka and further afield, be it skiing, fishing, walking, wine tasting, biking or a game of tennis. The lodge has an on-site tennis court, swimming pool (heated in summer), sauna and gym, ski drying room and mountain bikes.
Edgewater is based right by Lake Wānaka, sitting at the edge of Lake Wānaka and designed to flow with the seasons, Edgewater is a place you’ll find nature at your own pace. Their in-house restaurant, Wineglass Cafe, offers seasonal menus for brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Drive to the spectacular glaciers region of the South Island (3H). The Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers cut through dramatic glacial valleys to flow into temperate rainforest. We recommend taking a day trip with a guide on the Franz Josef as you are not allowed to go onto the glacier by yourself. Booking in advance essential.
The luxurious innovative eco-designed Te Waonui Forest Retreat is nestled in the lush bush with views of the natural environment at almost every turn. They offer high-quality local cuisine paired with attentive service.
Set in a beautiful native garden, Westwood Lodge offers well-appointed accommodation with stunning views of the West Coast’s rainforests, mountains of the Southern Alps, and the Franz Josef Glacier. It is the ideal place to relax, unwind and explore Franz Josef Glacier.
In the heart of the village and edge of the Westland World Heritage Park, this accomodation is only a breath away from the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier, the West Coast Wildlife Centre and a 6-minute walk from the Tatare Tunnels Walk.
Alex Knob Track is only for experienced walkers. You will zig-zag your way up to Rata Lookout for your first views over the Franz Josef Glacier through lowland forest, sub-alpine scrub, alpine meadows and herb fields and to the Alex Knob summit. Forest birds, such as tui, bellbird, kereru (New Zealand wood pigeon), are heard regularly along the track.
An easier walking choice today (but good fitness is still required) is the Roberts Point Track, which again has great views over the surrounding landscapes.
The luxurious innovative eco-designed Te Waonui Forest Retreat is nestled in the lush bush with views of the natural environment at almost every turn. They offer high-quality local cuisine paired with attentive service.
Set in a beautiful native garden, Westwood Lodge offers well-appointed accommodation with stunning views of the West Coast’s rainforests, mountains of the Southern Alps, and the Franz Josef Glacier. It is the ideal place to relax, unwind and explore Franz Josef Glacier.
In the heart of the village and edge of the Westland World Heritage Park, this accomodation is only a breath away from the spectacular Franz Josef Glacier, the West Coast Wildlife Centre and a 6-minute walk from the Tatare Tunnels Walk.
Head north (2H) to Greymouth. Why not stop off in Hokitika, the cultural centre of the West Coast. This town is sandwiched between surf and river with the mighty Southern Alps as a backdrop, and is also home to the New Zealand’s finest Pounamu, green Jade.
This afternoon, after dropping off your rental car, board the TranzAlpine Train to Christchurch (4H20), one of New Zealand’s and indeed the world’s, great train journeys. This unforgettable train trip takes you through the South Island’s striking natural landscapes, traversing the Southern Alps including Arthur’s Pass. Then follow the Waimakariri river, cross the patchwork farmland of the Canterbury plains.
Upon arrival in Christchurch a transfer to your accommodation is included. This evening explore this world-famous 'Garden City' which has well-established expansive parks and public gardens.
The Mayfair Hotel offers a luxury and modern environment in the city centre. The Hagley Park, Victoria Square Bridge of Remembrance and the Canterbury Museum are all nearby.
Opposite a commercial hub with shops, bars and restaurants, this informal hotel is a 4-minute walk from Christchurch Cathedral and 1 km from Christchurch Botanic Gardens. At the Fable Christchurch the city´s heartbeat intertwines with the beauty of the Southern Alps.
This boutique hotel is ideally located on Victoria Street amidst an array of cafes, restaurants and bars, and is only a few minutes away from Hagley Park and Christchurch’s CBD. It features a stylish restaurant & bar as well as an elegant day spa.
A private transfer brings you to Christchurch Airport, from where you may make your onward journeys.
Other Information
Is it for me?This well-planned itinerary allows you to discover the best parts of both the North and South Islands of New Zealand in just 2 weeks, whilst staying in superior accommodations, surrounded by magnificent gardens, pristine forest or overlooking lush meadows next to a clear lake. All of New Zealand’s iconic places are included, from the geothermal extravaganza that is Rotorua, to the world-class scenery of the Southern Alps. The walks vary from easy to challenging but the choice is yours as they are always optional.
Discovery | Think of it as a ‘local’s guide’ to the best of the region. It includes a combination of activity and transportation to give you the freedom to explore and cover more ground at your own pace. We do all the research and organisation for you. All you have to do is turn up and enjoy!
Drive and Hike | Exploration of picturesque and remarkable destinations by car combined with walks that highlight the best of a country or region.
Solo Travellers
The minimum age for this tour is: 16 Years
There are many varying types of walks on this itinerary, from easy, flat and short walks, to longer more challenging hilly walks on rough terrain. However they are all optional and therefore you can choose which walks you would like to do. All the walks are available in the Macs Smartphone App, so you can easily find your way using this GPS technology.
Walks are mostly on dirt tracks and trails, which are mostly Department of Conservation walks all very well-maintained. New Zealand is a walkers paradise and well-renowned for its walking tracks, therefore it is all very well organised and sign—posted.
There are walking tracks that are seasonal, but you should be able to do them all as this tour is available in the spring, autumn/fall and summer. However, some walks are weather-dependent and since the weather can change rapidly in New Zealand is it always best to check the forecast, especially walking in high elevations. Also, if there is a Department of Conservation or tourist office nearby, we recommend checking the weather and the condition of the trail before embarking on a walk, particularly the longer walks in high terrain. Some walks are also in avalanche territory, so again, its best to check at a DOC office or on the DOC website for any warnings.
On this tour you will stay in superior accommodations, which includes, hotels, lodges, retreats, suites and resorts. This is a definite upgrade from the usual standard accommodations used on our other New Zealand Drive & Hike trips and you will enjoy overnighting in places that have a boutique, modern and characterful feel. Most of them are in great and incredibly scenic locations and all rooms are ensuite and spacious. You will receive a very warm welcome from your hosts.
Single Rooms & Solo Walkers
We will be happy to accommodate your party with single rooms if requested, and a single supplement applies. This trip is also available to solo walkers, and a supplement is again payable (as some costs are not shared). Please note that singles may not be of quite the same standard as twins/doubles.
Meals
10 Breakasts are included on this tour. Mostly your accommodation will provide a cooked breakfast, however there are a couple of places where breakfast provision only is included, which means that the accommodation will supply the food for you to cook yourself or take away. There are also couple of places where breakfast cannot be included, but you can buy it locally in cafes or restaurants. Lunches and most dinners are not provided but you can easily shop for both or eat in local cafes and restaurants. At certain times of the year it maybe neccessary to book you into alternative accommodation of the same standard - this may mean that the included meal plan will change as they might be able to, or not be able to provide breakfasts or dinners at the accommodation. On the walking days you can buy a packed lunch in a local shop/cafe.
The tracks in New Zealand are generally very well-marked and signposted so you should not have a problem finding your way. We have also provided GPX tracks for all the walks, which are accessible on the Macs Smartphone App, so you can simply follow the route on your phone. It will be essential to use the smartphone app for this particular trip as we will not have detailed route notes for all the walks.
- 13 Nights in superior lodges, hotels, retreats, and suites
- 10 Breakfasts
- 3 Dinners
- Private transfer from Auckland Airport to Auckland Hotel
- Car Rental (upgrade from standard)
- GPS Unit for car
- New Zealand Sim Card
- Return ferry to Rangitoto Island
- Private transfer from Auckland Hotel to Rental Car Agency
- Entrance to Orakei Korako Thermal Park and Waimangu Volcanic Valley
- Domestic flight from Wellington to Queenstown
- MIlford Sound Cruise
- TranzAlpine Train Greymouth to Christchurch
- Private Transfer from Christchurch Hotel to Christchurch Airport
- Information Pack
- Access to the Macs Smartphone App with GPS Tracks
- 24-7 Emergency telephone support from our UK office and local partner
- Travel Insurance (required)
- Travel to Auckland and from Christchurch
- 3 Breakfasts, 11 Dinners
- Lunches, drinks and snacks
- Fuel for car
- Personal Equipment
- ETA & IVL requests (mandatory)
- Entrances to museums and extra fees for optional activities
- Extra Night(s)
- Single Room Supplement
- Solo Walker Supplement
This drive and hike Highlights of New Zealand In Style trip is bookable between September 15th and May 31st. This is within the spring, autumn/fall and summer months when the weather will be more favourable, although it is subject to change quickly at any time of year!
Please note that the Transalpine Train from Greymouth to Christchurch is not operating between May 17th and 24th, 2025. Therefore you will not be able to begin your tour between May 5th and May 12th, 2025 due to this restriction.
The busiest months are January, February, March and over the Christmas/New Year season. If you wish to go during these times you will need to book far advance in order to get availability at the accommodations. Please note that normally it will take about 3-5 business days to confirm a booking, due to the length of this itinerary. During busy times and if you do not book 6 months in advance it could take longer.
Time of Year
The best time of year is from September to May which is when this tour operates. In the spring there will be flowers in abundance, it should be warm to hot in the summer (never hot in the mountains though) and in the Autumn/Fall it will be a bit quieter with nice colours.
You can fly into Auckland Airport. This airport is served by many airlines, both international and domestic, including Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines, Qantas, American, Thai Airways. Virgin Australia, Etihad and Quatar Airlines.
Upon arrival at Auckland Airport a GK Limousine driver will be waiting for you just outside the sliding doors that you will come though from customs. Your driver will be on the left with your name(s) on his board and will drop you off at your accommodation in the centre of Auckland.
* Please be aware that when booking flights from the UK to New Zealand you will arrive 2 days after you set off and on return you will arrive 1 day after you set off. So, for example, if you leave on a Tuesday you will arrive on a Thursday and on return if you leave on a Saturday you will arrive home on the Sunday. This is obviously because of the time it takes to get there but also because you are travelling back and forth across the International Date Line. Similar principles apply when travelling from other places in Europe and from the USA and Canada.
You can fly out of Christchurch Airport, which is an airport that is served by many airlines, both international and domestic, including Air New Zealand, Singapore Airlines, Qantas, Virgin Australia and Emirates.
On your final day a private transfer will take you to the airport from your accommodation.
The distances and ascent/descents are approximations of the recommended routes. Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, for example, proper rain gear (jacket and pants), sun hat, sunscreen. Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes for the cooler months and lightweight clothing for summer, and a day pack.
Extra Information
This tour is a drive and hike. By driving you will be able to see a lot more than if you were to travel by public transportation, which is not very prevalent in New Zealand. We have set the tour up so that you will pick up your rental car after you have stayed in Auckland. We have also provided a GPS unit. You will then drop this particular car off in Wellington before boarding a domestic flight to Queenstown, where you pick up another car. You will then keep the car until you drop it off in Greymouth and before boarding the TranzAlpine train to Christchurch.
Our pre-departure information pack has detailed advice and a kit list on what to take with you to New Zealand. This includes warm and cold weather gear, hiking boots, and lots of other useful bits and bobs.
Car Rental
Car rental is included in the cost of this tour, as it is a drive and hike itinerary. Car pick up will occur on the morning of Day 3. You will drop the car off at the airport in Wellington before taking a flight to Queenstown and then you will pick up another car on arrival at the airport. This car you will use until you arrive in Greymouth, where you will drop it off before boarding the TranzAlpine Train to Christchurch. You will be able to park your car at all of the accommodations and the walks will mostly have car parks at the start where you can safely leave it. At times you will have to leave your car in a car park with luggage inside, however New Zealand has a very low crime rate and you should feel comfortable doing so. The car will be a Kia Cerato or equivalent, which is an upgrade to the standard itinerary
The car rental includes tax (GST), unlimited kilometres and insurance, but excludes the first NZ$2500.00 (deductible) of any accident damage to the vehicle.
As part of your car rental a GPS unit will be provided and is included in the cost of the tour. We will provide addresses for all accommodations, sites and walks so that you can easily find your way. In case of any issues we also provide an included New Zealand SIM card so that you can make contact with any accommodation and service providers.
Driving in NZ is a great way to experience this country, but it can be different from driving in other countries. They have a good but limited motorway system and weather extremes. The terrain and narrow secondary roads & bridges require drivers to be very vigilant. You can find out what's different about driving in New Zealand at www.drivesafe.org.nz. DriveSafe provides everything you need to know for a safe and enjoyable driving adventure, from road rules and etiquette to links to further resources. On the whole though the roads are pretty quiet compared to other, more populous countries.
There are many varying types of walks on this itinerary, from easy, flat and short walks, to longer more challenging hilly walks on rough terrain. However they are all optional and therefore you can choose which walks you would like to do. It would be better if you had a good level of fitness to fully enjoy all the walking options on this drive and hike itinerary.
It really depends what time of year you want to go. The busiest months are in the height of summer which is January and February, although it will also be busy over Christmas and New Year. If you are planning to go during this time you will need to book quite far in advance.
This will depend on your nationality. However, most nationals just need to make sure that you request an ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) and be required to pay an IVL (International Visitor and Conservation Levy). These two requirements are nothing to be worried about. Please consult your New Zealand Country Guide for more information.
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