Mount Cook Scenic Flight
Soar above Mount Cook and the west coast glaciers on a scenic flight.
The most dramatic of New Zealand’s two islands, this self-drive holiday explores the South Island in-depth, taking in the best of the magnificent scenery and wildlife on offer.
The South Island is the most scenically stunning of New Zealand’s two islands and this trip allows you to really take in the best of it. Rather than try to cover both the North and South Island this route allows exploration of the natural south in more depth, at a more relaxed pace. Expect jaw dropping and varied scenery at every turn. The perfect trip if you love scenery, wildlife, wine, lakes and secluded accommodation.
Key Highlights of this Itinerary
The Catlins Wildlife
Search for albatross and hooker sea lions against the rugged coastline of the Catlins.
Explore Abel Tasman
Kayak or walk the golden beaches and native bush of the Abel Tasman coastline.
Cruise Milford Sound
Explore the iconic and spectacular scenery of Milford Sound.
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Day 1
Christchurch
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Day 2
Christchurch - Mount Cook Village
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Day 3
Mount Cook Village
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Day 4
Mount Cook Village - Dunedin
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Day 5
Dunedin
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Day 6
Dunedin - Catlins
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Day 7
Catlins
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Day 8
Catlins - Te Anau
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Day 9
Te Anau (Milford Sound)
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Day 10
Te Anau - Wanaka
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Day 11
Wanaka
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Day 12
Wanaka - Lake Moeraki
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Day 13
Lake Moeraki
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Day 14
Lake Moeraki - Franz Josef Glacier
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Day 15
Franz Josef Glacier
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Day 16
Franz Josef Glacier - Arthur's Pass
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Day 17
Arthur's Pass
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Day 18
Arthur's Pass - Kaikoura
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Day 19
Kaikoura
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Day 20
Kaikoura - Blenheim
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Day 21
Blenheim - Abel Tasman
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Day 22
Abel Tasman
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Day 23
Abel Tasman - Punakaiki
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Day 24
Punakaiki - Greymouth - Christchurch
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Day 25
Christchurch
Day 1
Christchurch
Day 2
Christchurch - Mount Cook Village
Day 3
Mount Cook Village
Soar above Mount Cook and the west coast glaciers on a scenic flight.
Day 4
Mount Cook Village - Dunedin
Day 5
Dunedin
Day 6
Dunedin - Catlins
Day 7
Catlins
Search for albatross and hooker sea lions against the rugged coastline of the Catlins.
Day 8
Catlins - Te Anau
Day 9
Te Anau (Milford Sound)
Explore the iconic and spectacular scenery of Milford Sound.
Day 10
Te Anau - Wanaka
Day 11
Wanaka
Day 12
Wanaka - Lake Moeraki
Day 13
Lake Moeraki
Day 14
Lake Moeraki - Franz Josef Glacier
Day 15
Franz Josef Glacier
Take to the sky for an aerial view of the glaciers or land on them to hike on the icy plateau.
Day 16
Franz Josef Glacier - Arthur's Pass
Day 17
Arthur's Pass
Day 18
Arthur's Pass - Kaikoura
Day 19
Kaikoura
Stay in a treehouse and spend days in search of whales, dolphin and seal.
Day 20
Kaikoura - Blenheim
Day 21
Blenheim - Abel Tasman
Day 22
Abel Tasman
Kayak or walk the golden beaches and native bush of the Abel Tasman coastline.
Day 23
Abel Tasman - Punakaiki
Day 24
Punakaiki - Greymouth - Christchurch
Board the Tranzalpine train to journey across the south island from west to east.
Day 25
Christchurch
More Details
Turquoise Waters of The Abel Tasman
The northern part of the South Island is known for its world-class wine and glorious coastline of white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. The Abel Tasman Coastal Track is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks – a 51 kilometre track which can be walked in its entirety over three to five days or followed in part, either on foot or by kayak. Different to anywhere else on the South Island, this coastline of beaches and rainforest interior is stunning. The perfect opportunity to take time to relax on a sheltered beach in solitude.
Wildlife of the South Island
Self-drive the rugged south eastern coastline, from the Otago Peninsula to the Catlins, a less visited area of craggy coast with forested interiors dotted with waterfalls. Walk on secluded beaches where hooker sea lions patrol the shore and colonies of yellow eyed and little blue penguins reside in the sand dunes. Clifftops hide colonies of shags, gannets, gulls and huge albatross – a magical sight as they soar through the skies on their three metre fixed wings.
Treetop Living
Stay in a treehouse on the shores of Kaikoura and spend your time searching for fur seals, dolphins and whales. Kaikoura is probably best known for its nutrient rich waters which create the perfect habitat for a range of marine life. There are also some wonderful riding, cycling and hiking trails in the area plus Mangamaunu Bay, a short walk from the lodge and an excellent surfing beach. As well as being a unique place to stay in a special location, Hapuku Lodge is committed to sustainable practices with numerous green initiatives in place which we love.
Epic Scenery - Fiordlands, Mountains and Lakes
The fiords, mountains and lakes of the South Island have probably created some of New Zealand’s most recognisable images and this trip includes time spent self-driving through this scenically spectacular area. Spend a night overlooking Te Anau Lake, perfectly placed to access the dramatic and iconic fiordland scenery of Milford Sound. Continue via the Remarkable Mountain Ranges to the buzz of Queenstown and picturesque Wanaka.
Further north is Lake Moeraki – located on the west coast and home to spectacular beaches, lowland rainforests, lakes and rivers. Relax and explore on foot or by canoe in search of fur seals and crested penguins.
Read More
Taieri Gorge Train Journey
Departing from Dunedin, this four hour train journey travels through some of New Zealand’s most beautiful scenery which is inaccessible by road. Pass through spectacular landscapes, peppered with century-old tunnels and iron viaducts showcasing incredible engineering from a bygone era. The journey has a full commentary and the scenery can be enjoyed from open air platforms or the comfort of heated interiors.
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A note on price
Prices will vary depending on the time of year you are travelling. Prices do not include international flights. Please ask one of our Travel Experts for an accurate quote. Flights purchased through Steppes Travel departing from the UK are ATOL protected.
This Itinerary
Price
From $11,346 Per person
When to travel
New Zealand in January
The long warm sunny days make this a wonderful time to visit, but accommodation fills up quickly. Locals have their summer holidays so add to visitor numbers.
New Zealand in February
The warmest month for much of the country. Locals return to work, easing some pressure on accommodation. A great time to enjoy South Island summer.
New Zealand in March
The best month to visit, as summer crowds disperse but beautiful warm weather generally prevails.
New Zealand in April
Temperatures fall, especially in the South Island. The autumn colours can be spectacular, and you may still get away with shorts in Auckland.
New Zealand in May
Autumn sweeps through the North Island, reinvigorating the green rolling hills. A quiet time of year to travel, after summer and before ski season.
New Zealand in June
The start of the ski season in the North Island, with the first snow showers beginning to fall. Crisp clear sunny days can still be found on the South Island.
New Zealand in July
The snow begins to settle and international snow sports teams can be spotted doing their off-season training.
New Zealand in August
The coldest month, but still plenty to see and do. Ski season is in full swing, and humpback whales can be spotted near Kaikoura on their way north.
New Zealand in September
Spring is in sight, but there is still plenty of snow on the mountains. Newborn lambs can be spotted in the vibrant green fields.
New Zealand in October
The snow melts and the rivers are at their peak, making for an exciting time to do white water sports. Longer days allow for more time to enjoy the outdoors.
New Zealand in November
A beautiful time of year, with wild gorse and vibrant lupins dotting the fields, making the countryside particularly colourful. Snow can still be seen on the tops of the mountains.
New Zealand in December
Temperatures heat up, but early in the month it is still relatively quiet. Christmas and New Year’s celebrations can be enjoyed in true Kiwi style – on a beach or in the expansive wilderness.
Holiday Inspiration
Our experts have created and curated these tailor-made holiday ideas to get you started. Take the time to search through them and find something that is the spark for your unique adventure.
Why Choose Steppes?
Our knowledge and expertise set us apart. So too our curiosity. It is this that drives us to create a journey that is really bespoke to you, all the while ensuring we travel and operate sustainably.
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