Some of the purest natural landscapes can be found in the South Island of New Zealand. The South Island offers adventures in all aspects from stunning vineyards and world-class wines, quaint towns and large cities to glacial valleys, a myriad of wildlife and bright, star-studded skies.

Top Things to do on New Zealand’s South Island
- Visit the vibrant city of Christchurch and uncover its urban centre with trendy street art and thriving food culture

- Walk the Hooker Valley Track and catch a glimpse of Mount Cook’s peak across the beautiful waters of Lake ...

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  1. Otago Central Rail Trail Cycling 4D3N, Self-Guided

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    Pedal the full 152km of New Zealand’s great Otago Central Rail Trail at a leisurely pace on this 4 day cycle self-guided adventure of the South Island from Clyde to Middlemarch. Venture on a scenic and historic journey into the Central Otago heartland following an old railway on a vehicle free trail with an easy gradient, offering a blend of scenic splendour, fascinating history, friendly towns and delicious local cuisine and wines.

    Your adventure begins in Clyde where you will soon understand why Otago Central Rail Trail is favoured by so many cyclists. You can get a Rail Trail Passport, which can be stamped at every historic station you pass through. During the 4 days, you'll cycle through the iconic tunnels and viaducts of the Poolburn Gorge and Ida Valley, admire the stunning Maniototo Plains and enjoy local hospitality as you weave your way along the old railway line. Enjoy a pleasurable and easy riding experience from Clyde to Middlemarch traversing ever-changing Central Otago scenery with plenty of diverting sights both on and near the trail, including beautiful tunnels and bridges, abandoned gold diggings, and an array of historic buildings. Traverse rocky gorges, various railway relics, and small towns with huge historic value such as Alexandra, Omakau, Oturehua and Middlemarch. The Otago Central Rail Trail is mostly flat and smooth, ideal for riders wishing to just sit back and take it easy.

    This package includes 3 night’s in comfortable accommodation on a twin share basis (upgrade to Superior Accommodation is available on request at an additional cost. Please contact us). Some meals and transport throughout the trail are included as specified in the itinerary. This is a self-guided adventure offering a pleasurable riding experience where daily luggage and vehicle transportation is included so that all you need to do is pedal and unwind from everyday life (e-bikes are available at an additional cost).

    Discover a new perspective of New Zealand; beautiful, historic, scenic and without the crowds! Tick off one of New Zealand’s great rides and uncover the country's natural beauty at an easy and relaxed pace on the back of a bike.

    3 Day and 5 Day Programs are also available. Please contact us if you are interested

    Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points

    Queenstown
    Pedal the full 152km of New Zealand’s great Otago Central Rail Trail at a leisurely pace on this 4 day cycle self-guided adventure of ...
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    From $612.28 Per Person, Twin Share
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  2. Ultimate Luxury Cloudy Bay Immersion 2D1N

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    Experience unparalleled luxury and exclusivity amid the vines at Cloudy Bay – Marlborough’s most celebrated winery – with a stay at ‘The Shack’, usually available by invite only.

    Located at the top of the South Island, Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest – and most famous – wine growing region. A combination of cool yet high sunshine climate and low rainfall produces uniquely vivid wines including the iconic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. Established in 1985, Cloudy Bay has done more than any other winery to put Marlborough – and New Zealand – on the map. Thirty years on, the Cloudy Bay team are committed to creating expressive, refined and fruity wines that truly embody the spirit of the region.

    Self-drive to Cloudy Bay’s Marlborough Cellar Door to discover where it all began. Embark on a private tour of the vineyard to learn how the unique microclimates and soil influence the wine’s flavour and aromatic profile. Enjoy a private wine tasting hosted by a Cloudy Bay Ambassador, with a wide range of wines at an exclusive location. Cap it all off with Cloudy Bay’s acclaimed Epicurean Experience, a perfectly orchestrated food and wine journey featuring locally sourced produce and specially paired Cloudy Bay wines. Marlborough doesn’t get much better than this!

    This exclusive 2-day self-drive package includes 1-nights’ luxury accommodation at The Shack on a twin share basis. Overlooking rolling vines to the Richmond Range, this highly exclusive and luxurious self-contained guest house was developed by award-winning New Zealand architects and constructed from natural materials including weathered steel, wood, stone and glass. Inside, it showcases the best New Zealand art and design, with open living spaces and four double ensuite bedrooms that reflect the local environment. The gourmet kitchen will be well stocked with the finest local produce, breakfast provisions, local beer and beverages, and the full range of Cloudy Bay wines.

    Go behind the scenes at Cloudy Bay to discover food and wine that reflects the beauty and purity of the Marlborough region. Understand why Cloudy Bay is an icon of New Zealand wine and one of the most sought-after new world wines.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points

    Picton, New Zealand
    Experience unparalleled luxury and exclusivity amid the vines at Cloudy Bay – Marlborough’s most celebrated winery – with a stay at ‘The Shack’, usually available ...
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    From $1,927.06 Per Person, Twin Share
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  3. South Island Nature Trail 10D9N, Self-Drive

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    Follow the path of the kiwi on this immersive 10-day self-drive road trip showcasing the South Island’s best nature and wildlife experiences including Stewart Island and Doubtful Sound.

    Tucked away at the bottom of the world, New Zealand is a country of natural spectacles and unique wildlife encounters. It is one of the few places in the world where, within the space of one day, you can experience mountain vistas, ancient forests, volcanic landscapes and stunning coastline – all while spotting wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. The South Island is especially breathtaking as the home of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area. Located in the South Island’s southwest, this 2.6-million-hectare area is one of the greatest natural areas in the world, containing rocks, plants and animals dating back 80 million years to a time when New Zealand was part of the ancient super continent Gondwana.

    Departing from Christchurch, hit the road to tick off the South Island’s best natural and wildlife experiences. Drive one of the top 10 drives in the world, the Southern Scenic Route. Tour the Otago Peninsula and see the world’s rarest penguin, the Yellow-eyed Penguin, in its natural habitat. Venture over to Stewart Island and Ulva Island and hunt for the elusive kiwi. Spend a night on Doubtful Sound and discover a haven for dolphins, fur seals and even larger whales. You will also have ample time to explore diverse cities and towns including Christchurch, Dunedin, Invercargill and Queenstown.

    This breathtaking 10-day nature- and wildlife-focused self-drive package includes 9-nights’ boutique hotel accommodation on a twin share basis. At the end of each fun-filled day, you will sleep in comfort and have access to luxurious facilities and amenities including swimming pools, plunge pools and spas. Ten days full size car rental is included as well as activities and sightseeings as specified in the itinerary. Daily breakfast provided.

    Embrace the great outdoors on this unforgettable 10-day self-drive road trip of the South Island. The natural beauty and wildlife will inspire you.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points

    Christchurch, New Zealand
    Follow the path of the kiwi on this immersive 10-day self-drive road trip showcasing the South Island’s best nature and wildlife experiences including ...
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    From $3,757.44 Per Person, Twin Share
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  4. Luxury South Island Golf Trail 11D10N, Self-Drive

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    Take on the South Island’s best golf courses on this luxury, 11-day self-drive road trip featuring the world-famous Terrace Downs, Millbrook, Jack’s Point and Clearwater courses.

    New Zealand and golf have a long history. Scottish immigrants introduced the game in the 19th century and their links-style courses still thrive today. These courses are set in incredible locations – the South Island’s landscapes range from snow-capped mountains and endless plains to shimmering lakes and fast-moving glaciers. This road trip will take you on an unforgettable scenic golfing journey.

    Departing from Christchurch, hit the road to play the South Island’s best golf courses. Head inland to Windwhistle to take on Terrance Downs, in the heart of the brilliant Canterbury high country. Head south to Queenstown, where you will play Millbrook and Jack’s Point among the towering Southern Alps. Your journey culminates in Christchurch, where you’ll tee off at Clearwater, with its glistening spring-fed lakes and trout-filled streams. Here, you’ll be walking in the footsteps golfing legends including Jason Dufner, Bubba Watson, Jason Day.

    When you’re not golfing, you’ll have ample to explore diverse cities and towns at your own pace. Highlights include exploring Mount Cook (Aoraki) National Park, travelling aboard the Tranzalpine (one of the world’s great rail journeys), and getting to know the vibrant alpine resort towns of Queenstown, Wanaka and Franz Josef. You’ll also have the opportunity to drive some of New Zealand’s best roads including the Crown Range and wild West Coast.

    This 11-day self-drive golfing adventure includes 10-nights’ boutique hotel accommodation on a twin share basis. At the end of each fun-filled day, you will sleep in comfort and have access to luxurious facilities and amenities including swimming pools, plunge pools and spas. Nine days full size car rental is included as well as activities and sightseeings as specified in the itinerary. Daily breakfast provided.

    Create lasting memories on the South Island’s best golf courses with this luxury 11-day golfing package. Come for the golf and stay for the exquisite food and wine, adventure activities, quiet nature and seamless hospitality.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points

    Christchurch, New Zealand
    Take on the South Island’s best golf courses on this luxury, 11-day self-drive road trip featuring the world-famous Terrace Downs, Millbrook, Jack’s ...
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    From $0.00 Per Person, Twin Share
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  5. South Island Glaciers & Sounds 8D7N, Self-Drive

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    Revel in the spectacular natural beauty of the South Island’s glaciers and sounds on this thrilling 8-day road trip. This package is perfect for first time visitors wanting to see and experience the best of Te Wahipounamu.

    Tucked away at the bottom of the world, New Zealand is a country of stunning and diverse natural beauty: snow-capped mountains, sparkling fiords, shimmering lakes, lush rainforests, fast-moving glaciers and more. The South Island is especially breathtaking as the home of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area. This 26,000 square kilometre (10,039sqmi) encompasses several national parks in southwest New Zealand – Mount Cook (Aoraki, Fiordland, Mount Aspiring and Westland National Park. On this road trip, you will visit them all!

    Departing from Christchurch, hit the road to see and experience the best of Te Wahipounamu. Drive New Zealand’s most scenic roads including the Crown Range and Milford Road. Admire the remarkable turquoise coloured Lake Tekapo and bask in the brooding shadow of Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain. Cruise the majestic Milford Sound and hike the famous Routeburn Track as well as the mighty Franz Josef Glacier. You will also embark on one of the world’s great rail journeys, the TranzAlpine, and have the opportunity to explore diverse cities and towns including Christchurch and Queenstown at your own pace.

    This exciting 8-day nature-focused self-drive package includes 7-nights’ superior hotel accommodation on a twin share basis. At the end of each fun-filled day, you will sleep in comfort and have access to luxurious facilities and amenities including swimming pools and spas. Six days full size car rental is included as well as activities and sightseeings as specified in the itinerary. Daily breakfast provided.

    Discover the splendor of the South Island on this 8-day self-drive road trip. This sensational loop route is the perfect introduction to New Zealand’s glaciers and sounds.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points

    Christchurch, New Zealand
    Revel in the spectacular natural beauty of the South Island’s glaciers and sounds on this thrilling 8-day road trip. This package is perfect ...
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    From $4,189.25 Per Person, Twin Share
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  6. South Island Bike 'n' Hike 12D11N, Self-Drive

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    Bike and hike the best of the South Island on this action-packed 12-day self-drive road trip including the Alps To Ocean, Roxburgh Gorge, Otago Central Rail Trail, Routeburn Track, Queenstown Trail, Rob Roy Glacier and Hooker Valley.

    Tucked away at the bottom of the world, New Zealand is a country of stunning and diverse natural beauty: snow-capped mountains, sparkling fiords, shimmering lakes, lush rainforests, fast-moving glaciers and more. For the outdoor enthusiast, keen on hiking and biking, the North Island New Zealand has no shortage of things to see and do. Home of the Great Walks and Rides (known to be some of the best hikes and rides in the world) and many other exciting activities, you could spend months trying to see it all. Luckily for you, this road trip offers the best of the South Island on two feet – and two wheels! 

    Departing from Christchurch, hit the road to see and experience the splendor of the South Island. Stretch the laces on your hiking boots in Mount Aspiring National Park and the Mount Cook region, home to unforgettable walks including the Routeburn, Rob Roy Glacier and Hooker Valley Tracks. Cycle the South Island’s Great Rides including the Alps To Ocean, Roxburgh Gorge, Otago Central Rail Trail and Queenstown Trail. Along the way, you will also have the opportunity to explore vibrant cities and towns, and learn about New Zealand’s fascinating pioneering and gold mining history.

    This thrilling 12-day hiking- and biking-focused self-drive package includes 11-nights’ boutique hotel accommodation on a twin share basis. At the end of each fun-filled day, you will sleep in comfort and have access to luxurious facilities and amenities including swimming pools and spas. Twelve days full size car rental is included as well as activities and sightseeing as specified in the itinerary. Daily breakfast and some meals provided.

    Embrace the great outdoors on this exhilarating 12-day self-drive road trip. This package is perfect for active couples and families seeking the South Island’s ultimate hiking and biking experiences .

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points

    Christchurch, New Zealand
    Bike and hike the best of the South Island on this action-packed 12-day self-drive road trip including the Alps To Ocean, Roxburgh Gorge, Otago ...
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    From $0.00 Per Person, Twin Share
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  7. North To South Gourmet Wine Trail 9D8N, Self-Drive

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    Taste your way around New Zealand on this mouth-watering 9-day self-drive culinary adventure including the world-famous wine regions of Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa and Marlborough.

    Tucked away at the bottom of the world, New Zealand is a paradise for those who prefer the finer things in life. The country’s rich soil and favourable climate means it produces some of the world’s best food and wine – in some of the most stunning landscapes, be it close to a stunning shoreline or nestled in a rural area with an off-the-beaten-track charm. Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa and Marlborough are 3 of the best – and most beautiful – regions in which to enjoy a mouth-watering fresh produce and a matching glass of wine.

    Departing from Auckland, hit the road to discover New Zealand’s best food and wine experiences. New Zealand’s Art Deco capital, Hawke’s Bay is known for its red wines – Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Syrah – and stunning Chardonnays, while rural Wairarapa, with its bush-clad ranges and rugged coast, is home to some of the country’s best Pinot Noir. The Marlborough wine region, meanwhile, is all about world-famous Sauvignon Blanc, delicious fresh seafood and diverse landscapes, from valleys of vines to sheltered waterways. You will embark on guided tours of each of these regions.

    Along the way, you will discover New Zealand food goes way beyond fish and chips and barbeques – New Zealand chefs have developed a distinct Pacific Rim cuisine. Expect to indulge in plenty of seafood (like greenlipped mussels, crayfish (lobster), Bluff oysters and fresh fish), award winning cheeses and of course the famous lamb. You should also expect a laidback, friendly atmosphere wherever you eat; Kiwis love to keep things casual.

    This relaxed 9-day self-drive package includes 8-nights’ boutique hotel accommodation on a twin share basis. At the end of each fun-filled day, you will sleep in comfort and have access to luxurious facilities and amenities including swimming pools, plunge pools and spas. Eight days full size car rental is included as well as activities and sightseeings as specified in the itinerary. Daily breakfast provided.

    Indulge in New Zealand’s best food and wine experiences on this 9-day self-drive road trip. You’ll discover food and wine that’s original, world-class, and fresh from the source.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points

    Auckland, New Zealand
    Taste your way around New Zealand on this mouth-watering 9-day self-drive culinary adventure including the world-famous wine regions of Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa and ...
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    From $0.00 Per Person, Twin Share
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  8. North To South Ultimate Traverse 22D21N, Self-Drive

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    Do and see it all on the ultimate New Zealand road trip, a 22-day odyssey from the Bay of Islands to the Southern Alps. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure showcases the country’s best active experiences including 3 of the Great Walks.

    Tucked away at the bottom of the world, New Zealand is a country of stunning and diverse natural beauty: tropical beaches, snow-capped mountains, sparkling fiords, raging rivers and active volcano zones. For the outdoor enthusiast, keen on hiking, biking, paddling and more, New Zealand has no shortage of things to see and do. Home of the Great Walks (known to be some of the best hikes in the world) and many other day and multiday hikes, you could spend months trying to see it all. Luckily for you, this road trip leaves no stone unturned on an epic journey from north to south.

    Departing from Auckland, hit the road to tick off New Zealand’s best active experiences. Drive New Zealand’s most scenic roads including Buller Gorge, the Crown Range and Milford Road. Discover dramatic landscapes, magnificent wilderness and stunning wildlife on New Zealand’s Great Walks including the Tongariro Northern Circuit, the Abel Tasman Coast Track and the Routeburn Track. Uncover beautiful beaches and twinkling bays on in the Bay of Islands and Coromandel, and a geothermal wonderland in the Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Follow the path of Captain James Cook on the Queen Charlotte Track, heli hike to the top of the Franz Josef Glacier and bask in the brooding shadow of Mount Cook (Aoraki), New Zealand’s tallest mountain. You will also have the opportunity to cruise Lake Wanaka and the magnificent Milford Sound, and explore diverse cities and towns including Wellington, Queenstown, Dunedin and Christchurch at your own pace.

    This action-packed 22-day active and nature-focused self-drive package includes 21-nights’ boutique hotel accommodation on a twin share basis. At the end of each fun-filled day, you will sleep in comfort and have access to luxurious facilities and amenities including swimming pools, plunge pools and spas. Twenty-two days full size car rental is included as well as activities and sightseeings as specified in the itinerary. Daily breakfast provided.

    Do New Zealand – and do it right – on this thrilling 22-day self-drive road trip from North to South. The diverse landscapes and exciting experiences will capture your heart.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points

    Auckland, New Zealand
    Do and see it all on the ultimate New Zealand road trip, a 22-day odyssey from the Bay of Islands to the Southern Alps. ...
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    From $0.00 Per Person, Twin Share
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  9. North To South Grand Traverse 17D16N, Self-Drive

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    Traverse New Zealand from North to South on this action-packed 17-day self-drive road trip showcasing the country’s best active experiences including 3 of the Great Walks.

    Tucked away at the bottom of the world, New Zealand is a country of stunning and diverse natural beauty: tropical beaches, snow-capped mountains, sparkling fiords, raging rivers and active volcano zones. For the outdoor enthusiast, keen on hiking, biking, paddling and more, New Zealand has no shortage of things to see and do. Home of the Great Walks (known to be some of the best hikes in the world) and many other day and multiday hikes, you could spend months trying to see it all. Luckily for you, this road trip leaves no stone unturned on an epic journey from north to south.

    Departing from Auckland, hit the road to tick off New Zealand’s best active experiences. Drive New Zealand’s most scenic roads including Buller Gorge, the Crown Range and Milford Road. Discover dramatic landscapes, magnificent wilderness and stunning wildlife on New Zealand’s Great Walks including the Tongariro Northern Circuit, the Abel Tasman Coast Track and the Routeburn Track. Uncover beautiful beaches and twinkling bays on the Coromandel Coastal Walk and a geothermal wonderland in the Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Follow the path of Captain James Cook on the Queen Charlotte Track and heli hike to the top of the Franz Josef Glacier. You will also have the opportunity to cruise Lake Wanaka and the magnificent Milford Sound, and explore diverse cities and towns including Wellington, Queenstown, Dunedin and Christchurch at your own pace.

    This exhilarating 17-day active and nature-focused self-drive package includes 16-nights’ boutique hotel accommodation on a twin share basis. At the end of each fun-filled day, you will sleep in comfort and have access to luxurious facilities and amenities including swimming pools, plunge pools and spas. Seventeen days full size car rental is included as well as activities and sightseeings as specified in the itinerary. Daily breakfast provided.

    Get the most out of your trip to New Zealand, with this 17-day self-drive road trip. The beautiful landscapes and thrilling activities will stay with you.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points

    Auckland, New Zealand
    Traverse New Zealand from North to South on this action-packed 17-day self-drive road trip showcasing the country’s best active experiences including 3 of the ...
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    From $0.00 Per Person, Twin Share
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  10. Ultimate Scenic South Island Road Trip, self-drive

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    Discover New Zealand’s most epic natural scenery with this luxury 12-day, self-drive road trip showcasing the South Island’s must-see sights.

    Departing from Christchurch, board the Tranzalpine to Greymouth and experience one of the world’s best inland rail journeys before picking up your hire car. From a helicopter, take in jaw-dropping aerial views of Franz Josef Glacier. Cruise Lake Wanaka and discover rare birds and a secret lake. Get your heart pounding in Queenstown, the adventure capital of the Southern Hemisphere, with hundreds of outdoor activities to choose from including jetboating, bungy jumping, mountain biking and more. Walk and cruise the Milford Sound and be transported to a fantastical world of crystalline fiords and snow-capped mountains. Drive the Scenic Southern Route – one of the world’s most scenic drives – and explore the southern cities of Invercargill and Dunedin. Traverse Hooker Valley and Aoraki Mount Cook and marvel at some of the world’s darkest, most star-filled skies.

    This incredible 12-day, self-drive road trip is offered at two price points: -4-star “best” staying at some of the South Island’s best 4-star hotels.-4-5-star “luxury” staying at a mix of 4 and 5-star hotels and lodges, for those seeking a little more luxury.

    Both versions of the road trip include 11-nights in handpicked accommodations throughout the South Island. A hire car is included for the duration of the trip. Selected meals, activities and experiences are also included.

    Be swept away by the natural beauty of New Zealand on the Ultimate Scenic South Island Road Trip.

    This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points

    Christchurch, New Zealand
    Discover New Zealand’s most epic natural scenery with this luxury 12-day, self-drive road trip showcasing the South Island’s must-see sights. Departing from ...
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    From $0.00 Per Person, Twin Share
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