SELF-DRIVE TOURS

Self Drive tours have become increasingly popular over the last few years with many visitors to New Zealand now renting a car upon arrival in their chosen destination and touring either the North Island or the South Island or even a bit of both, but all at their own pace.

These tours allow you the opportunity to see the areas that you wish to see and see it at your own speed - rather than being restricted to coach, rail and in some cases air schedules. We have featured several of the favourite touring routes on both of New Zealand's Islands.  So, Please take a look, as we are sure there will find a tour to suit your needs.

Choosing The Route

The easiest way to choose a self-drive tour is to get to know each of the islands and the various regions that New Zealand has to offer. You can do so by browsing though the COUNTRY & REGIONS information and decide on island, then the area or region, which has the most appeal, or of interest to you. Throughout these pages you will find some ideas as to what to see and do in the most popular regions. From hotels or motels and sightseeing tours to sports and adventure programmes as well as nature and wildlife experiences and all of these can be included in any itinerary, if you so wish.

Choose Island North Island North & South Island South Island

On this page you will also see some examples of various scenic driving routes that have been prepared for each Island and some of their Regions. Please therefore, click onto the drop down menu above, to choose the Island and then Region that you are interested in seeing a driving route for, click on it and you will be taken directly to the routes. Click on "back to top" to choose any additional Region that you may be interested in seeing driving routes for accordingly.

Once you have and idea of your route, please then take a look through the self-drive tours we have featured in the menu on the left hand side and see if you can find one that is 'nearly' right for you. But if there isn't, don't despair, we have the solution as all itineraries, are flexible and can be adjusted to include anything you wish or we can make one entirely fresh from the start for you, please contact us HERE and we will come back to you with a proposal!

Finally, our unique TOUR PLANNER (which is currently under construction) could assist you further in tailor-making an itinerary to suit you perfectly. The tours that have been selected differ in content and duration, each offering a variety of components, from traditional touring routes to tours which have an adventure option to "themed" family driving holidays.

Flexible Itineraries

It is understand that these itineraries will not always suit everyone exactly, so, all of these tours are "flexible". Whilst they do have a defined routing, it is possible to amend the itinerary to suit any requirements.

• Itineraries can commence on any day (subject to any additional schedules)
• Hotels at overnight stops may be changed
• Nights can be added - anywhere!
• Additional overnight stops can be added
• Existing overnight stops can be deleted
• Cars can be upgraded
• Any other travel elements, such as a City Stopovers and Resort or Farm Stays or Adventure & Sports Activity Packages can also be included

Children

Generally, there is no charge for one or two children, 12 years and under, sharing a hotel room and existing bedding (two double beds) with two adults paying the double/twin price. On tours where attraction entrances or transportation (bus, ferry, train, etc.,) are included, a child rate will then apply.

Car Rental Included

Included in all our self-drive tours is the car rental. The car size for each tour is based on an intermediate size. All will include unlimited kilometres, Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) Insurance coverage and all local taxes.

If you would prefer a larger car, this can be arranged for small supplement, please ask for details. Please note that fuel, hotel parking or any toll road charges are NOT included in the tour package.

Licences and Permits

You can legally drive in New Zealand for up to 12 months if you have either a current driver's licence from your home country, or an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Recent law changes mean all drivers, including overseas visitors, must carry their licence or permit when driving. You will only be able to drive the same types of vehicles you are licensed to drive in your home country. The common legal age to rent a car in New Zealand is 25 years.

Make sure your overseas driver's licence is current. If your licence is not in English, you should bring an English translation with you or obtain an International Driving Permit. Contact your local automobile club for further details about obtaining a translation or an IDP.

Road Rules

New Zealanders drive on the left-hand side of the road. Drivers give way (or yield) to all traffic crossing or approaching from the right, and if you are turning you give way to all traffic not turning.

The national speed limit is 100 kilometres per hour (100 kph) on the open road and 50 kilometres per hour (50 kph) in built up areas. You will find multi-lane motorways and expressways on the approaches to the larger cities, with most roads being dual carriageways. Sign posting follows standard international symbols and all distances are in kilometres (kms.)

Documentation

All our pre-packaged self-drive itineraries include a comprehensive information kit. This includes essential information featuring overview notes of the local area, local sightseeing and attractions, route maps and driving instructions. This package will be available at the airport upon arrival or at reception desk of your first overnight hotel.

What's Included?

All of the tours include accommodation of your choice and your car rental. Some tours may also include ferry journeys or sightseeing attractions. Full details of what each tour includes are listed with each itinerary.

What's Not Included?

Tour costs do not include any air or other additional transportation fare, NATIONAL PARK ENTRANCE FEES, car fuel, toll road fees or parking (if applicable) at your hotel. Full details of the items not included are shown with each itinerary.

SCENIC DRIVING ROUTES - NORTH ISLAND 

Twin Coast - Northland

Route 1: Twin Coast Discover Highway

Auckland - Rodney District - Whangerei - Bay of Islands - Cape Reinga - Dargaville - Auckland

The Twin Coast Discovery Route is a newly developed sign posted touring route of the Auckland and Northland regions. It takes visitors to both the east and west coasts where the experiences are as varied as the surrounding scenery. It really doesn’t matter which way you choose to follow the Twin Coast Discovery Route - either direction offers an unequalled holiday experience exploring this beautiful part of New Zealand. The journey begins and ends in Auckland’s spectacular harbour side playground, a maritime haven situated between stunning twin harbours. Auckland is a region brimming with scenic diversity, sophisticated city atmosphere and an endless array of activities and attractions.

From central Auckland travellers can start their journey north either by the east coast, which features the quaint cafés and golden beaches of North Shore City, or by heading west, visiting the lush rain forests and vineyard trails of Waitakere. Immediately north of Auckland, both arms of the Twin Coast Discovery Highway extend through Rodney District, a playground for water enthusiasts with more than 1,000 kilometres of stunning coastline, spectacular scenery, and an abundance of activities. Rodney has five regional parks providing an escape for nature lovers and recreational pursuits.

On departure from Rodney, travellers on the Twin Coast Highway begin their journey around Northland. By no means identical, the twin coasts offer an unsurpassed choice of beaches, harbours and bays. The ragged outline of Northland’s east coast creates many sheltered bays and beaches ideal for safe swimming, boating and diving. Game fishing is particularly rewarding. On its more exposed reaches the east coast boasts magnificent surfing beaches. Numerous islands add an extra dimension, providing excellent boating and diving conditions.

Just north of Rodney District is Mangawhai Heads, a popular holiday settlement and surf beach. Beyond Mangawhai are the surf beaches of Bream Bay, including Langs Beach, Waipu Cove and Ruakaka. Whangarei Harbour reaches inland at the north end of Bream Bay, providing an attractive marine setting for Whangarei, the principal city in Northland. Whangarei offers a relaxed urban atmosphere enhanced by it harbour side situation. The Tutukaka Coast, to the north-east of Whangarei, provides access to the Poor Knights Islands, a world renowned diving site.

From Whangarei the Twin Coast Highway travels north to the Bay of Islands. New Zealand’s colonial heritage is of particular importance in the Bay of Islands. The romantic town of Russell was the country’s first capital and in its infancy hosted the ribald crews of visiting whaling ships, earning the town considerable notoriety. Today it carries an air of peaceful gentility. Directly across the bay is Waitangi where the historic treaty between the British crown and Maori chiefs was signed in 1840. The oldest building in New Zealand, Kemp House, can be found a little further north at Kerikeri.

The alluring beaches of the Far North beckon visitors continuing north from the Bay of Islands. Scuba diving in locations such as the Cavalli Islands and game fishing provide ample opportunities for adventure while the fishing village of Mangonui is a wonderful place to relax in an atmosphere of colonial charm. No trip to the Far North is complete without a visit to Cape Reinga, New Zealand’s northernmost point. Exciting coach trips take visitors to the Cape via the west coast’s famous Ninety Mile Beach. The west coast is the wild, untamed twin with vast stretches of unbroken sand swept by the surf of the Tasman Sea. The entrance to the Hokianga Harbour provides a break in the coastline and is an area steeped in Maori history.

When the Maori fist came to Northland the land was covered in lush bush, including many kauri. With the European settlers came the need for timber and many trees were felled. The remaining stands of kauri such as Waipoua Forest and Trounson Kauri Park to the south of the Hokianga are valued and protected. Visit the forests to experience their wonder and gaze in awe at one of the world’s largest living trees, Tane Mahuta, in the Waipoua Forest. To discover more about the timber milling and accompanying gum digging aspect of the region’s history, see the extensive displays at Northland’s museums.

Continuing south, the Twin Coast Highway passes the Kai Iwi Lakes with their cool, clear waters and pristine white sandy beaches and a popular summer holiday spot. Dargaville is the next township, sitting alongside the Wairoa River. The river was once an important waterway, linking Dargaville with the Kaipara Harbour. The Kaipara Harbour creates a notable gash in the predominantly smooth landline of the west coast, its indentations forming the longest coastline of any harbour in the Southern Hemisphere. The Twin Coast Highway re-enters Rodney District as it travels alongside the southern shore of the Kaipara Harbour, beginning the return run to Auckland.

Eastland - Central North Island

Route 2: Pacific Coast Highway

Auckland - Thames - Whitianga - Tauranga - Gisborne - Napier - Hastings

The Pacific Coast Highway heads east from Auckland, following the scenic coastline of the Coromandel. You'll see sapphire waters lapping white sandy beaches out one window and thickly forested mountains out the other. Then, quite suddenly, you'll enter the rolling farmland and fertile orchards surrounding Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty before meeting the rugged splendour of the East Cape.

This eastern region of New Zealand was one of the first arrival areas for both Maori and European voyagers. Relics of this heritage can be discovered in the museums, early buildings and on marae along the route to Gisborne and Poverty Bay. Award winning vineyards and breathtaking scenery will surround you as you travel the final leg to Hastings and Napier, the Art Deco city.

Route 3: Thermal Explorer Highway

Auckland - Hamilton - Rotorua - Taupo - Napier - Hastings - Waikato District - Auckland

When you leave the Pacific Coast Highway in Napier, you'll join the southern end of the Thermal Explorer Highway. The road from Napier to Taupo takes you along the historical heritage trail. When you arrive at the great lake, switch to relaxation mode and plan your adventures while you indulge yourself in the steamy comfort of a hot spa.

The lake and its adjoining streams are alive with rainbow and brown trout just waiting to be caught, and from Taupo it's only a short drive to the skifields of Ruapehu (in winter) and the wonderful walks of the Tongariro National Park (in summer). After Taupo, Rotorua beckons with its steamy thermal attractions and fascinating Maori cultural experiences. Then, on your way back to Auckland, stay for a day or more around Hamilton and the Waikato district - the land of underground mysteries.

SCENIC DRIVING ROUTES - NORTH ISLAND & SOUTH ISLAND

Centre Stage - South North Island & North South Island

Route 1: Centre Stage Food & Wine

Wellington - Martinborough -  Cook Strait - Picton - Marlborough Sounds - Blenheim - Nelson

From Wellington, drive through the spectacular Rimutaka Mountain Pass heading for the Martinborough Wine Village. This is one of New Zealand's top wine producing regions, famous for its Pinot Noir. Overnight in the region in a Boutique Bed and Breakfast or local Country Hotel and check out some of the local delicacies.

Back to Wellington to cruise from the North Island, over the Cook Strait on either the Interislander Ferry or The Lynx Catamaran, to Picton on the South Island. Perhaps you can take in a boat cruise of Marlborough Sounds and enjoy some of its fresh seafood, before returning to Picton and on to Blenheim, for a wine tour in New Zealand's largest world renowned wine region. Overnight in the region and dine of local produce.

Begin the day with a leisurely country style breakfast and then head off in the direction of Nelson, another excellent boutique wine area, producing a full range of red and white varieties. The Nelson Wine Trail follows the Nelson Arts and Crafts Trail, so you can spend a wonderful and relaxing day exploring both the boutique wineries and unique arts and crafts centres. How about an overnight in a Country Lodge and enjoy the delicious foods of this area.

Route 2 - The Perfect Centre Stage

Wellington - Wairapa -  Cook Strait - Picton - Marlborough - Nelson - Christchurch

Start from Wellington, which has a huge range of attractions to offer as it is home to Te Papa and New Zealand's Parliament and renowned for its heritage and cultural attractions. The compact layout of the city means you can enjoy quality shopping, sample wine and food at a vast array of cafes and restaurants and still have the energy to experience the city's nightlife.

Travel from Wellington to Wairarapu, considered New Zealand's capital country escape and the perfect rural retreat, yet only one hour away from Wellington. The Wairarapa district boasts more than 500 farm stays, homestays, bed and breakfasts and luxury country lodges. Enjoy relaxing, informal and very kiwi experience.

After returning to Wellington, catch a morning ferry service across Cook Strait into the beautiful Marlborough Sounds. After arriving into Picton, discover Marlborough and you will be discovering paradise - spectacular scenery, glistening waterways, fine wines and food, art and craft, adventure activities, recreational delights and world class facilities, all being enjoyed in a sunny climate.

From Marlborough, head on to Nelson via the Treasured Pathway. With sun and blue skies all year round, beaches and forests and mountains side by side, art and craft wherever you look, fun and crazy things to do, a thoroughly relaxed lifestyle, chintzy cafes and fine restaurants, the fresh seafood, fruit, wine and naturally brewed beer….. All this is Nelson!

From Nelson head on down, to end this tour in Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island but not before stopping off to have an early morning fish for Brown Trout in the world renowned Nelson Lakes. Or, relaxing in the thermal pool at Hamner Springs and going whale watching at Kaikoura.

SCENIC DRIVING ROUTES - SOUTH ISLAND

Christchurch & Canterbury - Central South Island

Route 1: Canterbury Trail

Christchurch - Kaikoura - Hanmer Springs - Akaroa - Methven - Arthur's Pass

Christchurch is the world's Gateway to the Antarctic, so why not experience the world's best Antarctic attraction located right next to Christchurch Airport? Allow between 2 and 3 hours for your visit to include the behind the scenes tour too.

Get close to New Zealand's indigenous animals and birds at Willowbank Wildlife Reserve or, for that African experience, visit Orana Park, Christchurch's African wildlife reserve. Enjoy the interactive attractions of Airforce World which takes you through a fascinating history of aviation in New Zealand or Science Alive - a hands on attraction which investigates all the things we take for granted in the modern world.

Head to Lyttelton Harbour, just 15 minutes away from the city centre and board the Black Cat for half day cruise with Christchurch Wildlife Cruises. Catch a glimpse of one of the world's rarest and smallest dolphins - the Hector's or New Zealand Dolphin. Also discover penguins and other coastal marine birdlife.

There is so much to do and see in the Hanmer and Kaikoura districts. Stop in Kaikoura and 'dive' into one of the many options - literally. Choices abound - whale watching by air or sea, dolphin swimming, sea kayaking, seal swimming, and even shark diving - or of course you could choose one of the many land based activities. Then head into Hanmer Springs where you definitely won't need a wet suit - the thermal waters are ideal for soaking in year round and Hanmer is an ideal place to just kick back and relax!

Visit the charming French settled village of Akaroa on the idyllic Banks Peninsula. Then head inland to the ski village of Methven. Nested at the base of My Hutt Methven which offers access to the mountains and rivers and is very close to the mighty Rakaia - New Zealands number one salmon fishing river.

Visit this unique alpine region only 1.5 hrs drive from Christchurch. Renowned for numerous back country tracks and huts the Arthurs Pass region is an ideal place to get away from it . Easy to get to on the Coast to Coast shuttle, by train or by vehicle this alpine region is a great place to spend 2 or 3 days.

Southlands - South Island

Route 2: Southern Scenic Route

Te Anau -  Riverton - Invercargill - The Catlins - Waikowa - Paptowai - Balclutha - Dunedin

Take the coastal journey along the Southern Scenic Route and unlock secrets found only in the south of the South Island, New Zealand. Discover the majestic beauty of the jagged Fiordland mountains and the rugged southern coast. Explore New Zealand native bush rolling to the water's edge, or stroll down a white sandy beach and enjoy the peace and solitude.

Uncover the ancient secrets of this land which has been occupied by Maori for over 1,000 years and observe the natural features of the environment that led Ngai Tahu, as the people of the land, down the same pathways you will travel. This scenic travelling route guides you through some of the most spectacular coastal scenery and rural settings in New Zealand to be enthralled by the contrasting beauty of unique landscapes, from rolling green pastures and native New Zealand forest, to the wild southern coastline and looming mountains.

Majestic Milford Sound draws you to Te Anau, at one end of the Southern Scenic Route. Known to the Ngai Tahu as Piopiotahi, Milford Sound was a sacred ground where the patupaiarehe (the fairy people) lived. Visitors are always captivated by the splendour of Mitre Peak and the beauty of the remote fjords. Whilst travelling south, take the time to venture off the main highway and discover Southland's hidden lakes, on the southern tip of Te Wai Pounamu, the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area.

The wild southern coast captures the imagination with breathtaking vistas of the ocean. Explore the settlements scattered throughout this area. Spend time in Riverton, a delightful historic fishing town and holiday spot. Fossick for shells and stones on the beach or take a leisurely swim in this safe cove. Invercargill is Southland's only city. From here, you can take the short journey across Foveaux Straight to Stewart Island. The city of Invercargill offers a display of fine Victorian architecture and has all the amenities and services that any traveller may require. A stay here enables you to meet the local residents and discover the warmth of 'southern hospitality'.

Leaving Invercargill you travel through some of the most lush and fertile farmland in New Zealand before entering the Catlins. The Catlins is an area where native forest meets the waters edge; a place of hidden waterfalls and river valleys; of rocky coastal bays, inlets and estuaries where the great Pacific Ocean bites into the land. Of international geological significance is Curio Bay's 160 million-year-old fossilised forest, best viewed at low tide. The Catlins is home to an abundance of wildlife and Nugget Point (Tokata) is a stunning and accessible place for viewing seals and penguins.

Further travel through the Catlins brings you to the rich, green, rolling hills of South Otago, an area steeped in history. Early colonial architecture is a feature of many of the buildings in this area. Balclutha services the surrounding farming communities and provides a convenient break or stopover for the traveller. Lake Waihola marks the turning point of travel toward the coast and the charming seaside villages of Taieri Mouth and Brighton. Take time to enjoy the many recreational activities in this area. Stroll along the deserted beaches with soft white sand that stretches for miles. Clamber over the rocky outcrops and watch the crashing waves.

Depending on your direction of travel, Dunedin marks the beginning or the conclusion of your tour of the Southern Scenic Route. Dunedin is a bustling university city, celebrated for its architecture, museums, galleries and theatres. The Octagon is the showpiece and centre of this vibrant city. Enjoy the street life while sipping coffee at an outdoor café or pick a spot in the sun under the statue of Robbie Burns. Dunedin offers a blend of natural history, attractions, culture, recreation and entertainment that captivates any visitor.