Best of Aoraki / Mount Cook Village

Wraparound views of Lake Wakatipu from your Queenstown luxury lodge (photo courtesy of Azur Lodge)

New Zealand South Island Luxury Getaway - 7 Days

This luxury South Island road trip takes you from Christchurch to Queenstown in a relaxed fashion, enjoying exclusive tours and 5-star stays along the way. Soar above Mount Cook National Park and Milford Sound / Piopiotahi on scenic flights, take a helicopter to New Zealand's highest-altitude whisky bar, and explore the unspoiled Mackenzie region by 4WD. Other highlights include steaming onsen baths beneath the stars, exhilarating jet boat rides, and Kiwi barbecue feasts.

Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook & Queenstown: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, and Queenstown spend about 11 to 14 days in New Zealand, which usually includes some time in Auckland and Rotorua as well. If you're only headed to Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, and Queenstown, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in six to nine days. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as five days. For the best itineraries, including Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, and Queenstown, keep reading below.

Explore New Regent Street's cafés and shops, Christchurch, New Zealand

Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown & Franz Josef / Waiau: Best Itinerary Ideas

Eight to nine days is a great length for a New Zealand trip, with stops in Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown, and Franz Josef / Waiau. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as seven days. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Te Anau or Wanaka. Keep reading for more inspiring Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown, and Franz Josef / Waiau itineraries.

Active South Island Family Vacation: Christchurch to Queenstown - 10 Days

New Zealand's South Island is a dream destination for active families, with a variety of adventure sports, outdoor activities, and nature reserves that will keep every member of the family entertained. This 10-day itinerary that starts in Christchurch and ends in Queenstown will take you through the Southern Alps, where you can stargaze at Aoraki / Mount Cook, cruise on Milford Sound, see glowworms at Te Anau, ride the luge in Queenstown, and more.

End your trip at a luxurious lakeside lodge outside Queenstown (photo courtesy of Azur Lodge)

New Zealand South Island Luxury Getaway - 10 Days

This 10-day road trip across New Zealand's South Island squeezes in the best nature experiences and active adventures as you journey from Christchurch to Queenstown. Wake up in remote luxury lodges and 5-star hotels, then tick off bucket-list experiences in ways you didn't expect. Ride a chopper to a mountaintop whisky bar, climb up a waterfall in Wanaka, explore the remote Doubtful Sound by boat, hike part of the famous Routeburn Track, and soak in relaxing onsen hot springs.

Hop in a helicopter to ascend the icy slopes of Aoraki / Mount Cook

Winter Luxury in New Zealand: Auckland to Queenstown - 10 Days

Experience New Zealand's charms in the cooler months of June through September with this luxurious winter road trip. In 10 days, you'll travel from subtropical Auckland to the snowcapped mountains of Queenstown, checking off destination hotels and bucket-list excursions along the way. Sip your way around the "wine island" of Waiheke, soar over Rotorua's geysers by floatplane, trek atop a glacier in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, and warm up with an evening in the onsen hot springs of Queenstown.

Golden leaves on the vines of a vineyard in Otago, New Zealand

Christchurch to Queenstown Wine & Adventure Tour - 6 Days

Wine lovers and adventure-seekers can get all bases covered on New Zealand's South Island with this six-day itinerary. Space out your wine tasting with activities, including gondola rides, ziplining, and canyon river rafting. You'll also have time for leisurely walks through Mount Cook National Park. A scenic road trip portion offers opportunities to get out and see the glaciers and mountain ranges that make this region a must-visit spot for extreme sports enthusiasts.

New Zealand's Lake Te Anau waterfront and marina

Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown, Te Anau & Franz Josef / Waiau: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that 10 to 11 days is perfect for a well-paced New Zealand trip with stops in Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown, Te Anau, and Franz Josef / Waiau. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Dunedin, Wānaka, or Hokitika. See more ideas for Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown, Te Anau, and Franz Josef / Waiau itineraries below.

Driving towards Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest peak

New Zealand: Ultimate South Island Road Trip - 12 Days

Explore New Zealand's South Island in style on this unforgettable 12-day road trip. Starting and finishing in the alpine adventure capital of Queenstown, this route circumnavigates the Southern Alps as you drive through a land of dramatic peaks, ancient glaciers, and pristine lakes. By day you'll embark on adventurous excursions and discover spectacular scenery, while nights are spent relaxing in a series of luxurious boutique hotels and lodges.

Finish the trip in Queenstown for a slew of activities

New Zealand's Ultimate Tour - 13 Days

Perfect for first-timers, this 13-day itinerary covers an epic variety of landscapes and activities that only New Zealand could offer. Starting in Auckland, you'll head south, passing through glowworm caves, natural mud baths, and famous film sets. Stay a few nights in Wellington before continuing to the South Island for the country's highest peaks, incredible natural wonders (like Milford Sound), and—if you so choose—a range of adrenaline sports to amp up this Kiwi adventure.

New Zealand South Island Road Trip: Lakes, Mountains & Glaciers - 7 Days

This week-long itinerary takes you on a scenic road trip through the South Island's most spectacular landscapes. Starting in Christchurch, set off across the Canterbury Plains to skirt the turquoise lakes of Tekapo and Pukaki and reach the towering Mount Cook. After two nights exploring the adventure capital of Queenstown, head north along the rugged West Coast to Franz Joseph Glacier. Take a break from driving for the final leg of your journey and return to Christchurch via a breathtaking train journey.

View from Lake Pukaki toward Aoraki / Mount Cook

Nature-Packed New Zealand Family Road Trip: Wellington & the South Island - 14 Days

This two-week New Zealand adventure is perfect for families who love wildlife and the outdoors. Starting at Wellington's groundbreaking nature sanctuary, head south through Kaikoura, Christchurch, Tekapo, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Wanaka, and Queenstown. Along the way, you'll climb glaciers, swim with dolphins, stargaze, whale watch, and have a whole lot of fun!

Active Highlights of New Zealand's South Island - 14 Days

Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, this two-week New Zealand trip embraces the wild beauty of the South Island. Start in the adventure capital of Christchurch and catch a ride on the TranzAlpine Train across the island. Then, it's time for a road trip, as you collect a rental car to reach Franz Josef Glacier, Queenstown, Te Anau, Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, and Aoraki / Mount Cook. Along the way, you'll kayak, jet boat, hike, cruise, and helicopter your way through ever-shifting landscapes.

Pause in Dunedin for spectacular coastal scenery and a castle and cruise tour

New Zealand South Island Explorer: Southern Alps, Glaciers, Lakes & Fjords - 14 Days

Buckle up for an epic 14-day self-drive adventure through New Zealand's South Island. Cruise Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, spot fur seals in Otago Harbor, and land on a snow-covered glacier. You'll also ride a jet boat on the Shotover River, meet penguins, explore glowworm caves in Te Anau, and paddle a Maori canoe. But it's not all nature and aquatics. There's also time for a wineries tour, food safari, and the historic Larnach Castle before ending with a world-class train trip over the Southern Alps.

Discover New Zealand's diverse flora and fauna on this road trip

New Zealand's South Island: Luxury Self-Drive Tour - 15 Days

Experience the wilderness and wildlife of New Zealand's South Island on this 15-day self-drive itinerary. By day, you'll drive through breathtaking landscapes and embark on outdoor adventures, while nights are spent in a series of secluded luxury lodges. Setting off from Christchurch, enjoy alpine walks in Mount Cook National Park, discover rich marine life on the Otago Peninsula, and cruise through the remote Doubtful Sound in Fiordland National Park. After adrenaline sports in Queenstown and a memorable trek across the Franz Josef Glacier, the scenic TranzAlpine train whisks you back to Christchurch.

You'll drive alongside striking turquoise Lake Tekapo on the South Island

Self-Drive New Zealand: Lakes, Mountains & Glaciers - 8 Days

Explore the beauty of New Zealand's South Island at your own pace with this self-drive tour. You'll start in Christchurch and drive through incredible villages to Queenstown. Next, you'll explore national parks before taking one of the world's greatest train journeys back to Christchurch. Get your adrenaline rush in along the way by bungee jumping, heli-skiing, and mountain biking!

Scenic View of Mount Cook in New Zealand

Ultimate New Zealand Self-Drive Adventure - 16 Days

This 16-day New Zealand self-drive itinerary brings out the best of the North and South islands combining nature and adventure with relaxation. Start in Auckland, tick off Rotorua and Wellington, then cross to the South Island. Drink wine in Marlborough, see Kaikoura Coast wildlife, and pass by Christchurch on your way to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park. Hike the Haupapa / Tasman Glacier, chase thrills in Queenstown, and join a luxury overnight cruise on Milford Sound / Piopiotahi.

Hike through some of New Zealand's most spectacular natural parks, like Mount Cook / Aoraki

The Wonders of New Zealand's South Island: Hiking, National Parks & Nature - 17 Days

Nature unfolds at every turn on this unforgettable 17-day journey through New Zealand's South Island. This itinerary is designed for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and avid hikers, ticking off the best destinations with self-guided and guided hikes. Plus, you'll kayak across glacial lakes, heli-hike Franz Josef Glacier, and enjoy the serenity of an overnight cruise on Milford Sound / Piopiotahi. Embrace the wild beauty of the South Island with this unique expedition.

In Kaikōura, the mountains meet the ocean

Wild New Zealand: Auckland, Tongariro, Wellington, Kaikoura, Christchurch, Mount Cook & Queenstown - 16 Days

Enjoy some of New Zealand's most beautiful and exhilarating wilderness experiences on this 16-day tour of both the North and South Islands. Starting in Auckland, you'll head down to the Tongariro National Park for off-the-beaten-path hiking and biking adventures. Pass through Wellington on your way to the South Island, where majestic mountains await. Spot whales in Kaikoura, hike in the Southern Alps, stargaze in some of the darkest skies in the world, and much more.

Highlights of New Zealand: From North to South - 15 Days

Traverse New Zealand on this two-week adventure-packed trip, covering the highlights of North and South Island. Discover diverse landscapes, from world-class surfing beaches, volcanic islands, and fern forests to geothermal waters, glacial fiords, and imposing mountains. Along the way, you'll visit historic mining towns, go wine tasting, hike, paddle, and fly your way across the country.

South Island Highlights & New Zealand Wines - 12 Days

Travel through New Zealand's beautiful South Island, getting to know its cultural hotspots, famous landscapes and public gardens, and sprawling vineyards along the way. Over 12 days, you'll enjoy the cafes and fine art of Nelson, spend two days sipping wine in Marlborough, hike near beautiful Lake Wanaka and the famous Milford Sound, and more.

New Zealand South Island Adventure: Christchurch, Mount Cook, Queenstown & Franz Josef - 9 Days

Encounter snowy peaks and lush rainforests in this nine-day road trip around New Zealand's South Island. Start by sampling a four-course meal on a colonial-style tram ride around Christchurch. Pick up your rental car, and get ready for breathtaking scenery over the next week as you drive through "The Lord of the Rings" country, with stop-offs that include glacial hot pools, boat rides, gourmet barbecues, and a scenic train ride.

Views across Lake Wakatipu near Queenstown

New Zealand Discovery Tour: Auckland to Queenstown - 9 Days

Beginning in the vibrant capital of Auckland, this adventure-packed nine-day itinerary starts with a sail under the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Then, it's on to explore geothermal Rotorua and historic Christchurch and visit the spectacular Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park for stargazing and a glacier cruise. You'll finish with many options in Queenstown, from bungee jumping to a jet boat ride to vineyard tours.

Best of New Zealand: Auckland, Rotorua, Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook & Queenstown - 16 Days

A 16-day tour of New Zealand is just the right length to appreciate the beauty and diversity of its two main islands, the North and South Islands. Start in Auckland, experiencing its big-city attractions and natural charm. Continue to geothermal Rotorua, a heartland of Maori culture. Fly south to Christchurch for a few days around the Garden City before driving into the mountains. Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown, and Milford Sound / Piopiotahi offer some of the country's most stunning scenery.

Enjoy views of Mount Cook , the highest mountain in New Zealand

Self-Driving Tour of New Zealand's Nature & Culture: Auckland to Queenstown - 18 Days

New Zealand was practically made for self-driving vacations, and you'll get to experience the best of the North and South Islands on this 18-day itinerary. Starting in Auckland, head to the beaches of the Coromandel and the geothermal wonders of Rotorua before flying south to Christchurch. Then it's off into the Southern Alps, where you'll see some of New Zealand's highest mountains, hike some of its finest trails, and cruise to its most spectacular viewpoints.

New Zealand: Fjords, Glaciers & Mountains Self-Drive Tour - 10 Days

This 10-day road trip through New Zealand takes you through fjords, glaciers, and mountains abound. Begin in Christchurch on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour, then drive to Mount Cook National Park to embark on two excursions to discover Haupapa / Tasman Glacier and the surrounding peaks. Next is another eventful drive—with stops along the way—to Te Anau, including a visit to a glowworm cave and a day cruise through Milford Sound / Piopiotahi. Explore Queenstown, board a dinner cruise, visit Wānaka and Franz Joseph Glacier, and drop off your car before riding the exhilarating TranzAlpine Scenic Train back to Christchurch.

Visit stunning wineries in several locations, starting with Waiheke Island

New Zealand Road Trip: Local Food, Wine, Culture & Nature - 19 Days

Get ready for an authentic road trip exploring New Zealand's charm, natural beauty, and local food and wine scene. Over 19 days, you'll savor New Zealand's finest vineyards in Hawke's Bay and Queenstown, cruise across serene Lake Taupo and the stunning Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, and explore geothermal wonders in Rotorua. You'll also hike majestic mountains and dine well in Auckland, Napier, and Christchurch for a trip of a lifetime.

Discover geothermal landscapes in Rotorua

Self-Drive & Discover New Zealand’s Landscapes: Winelands, Glaciers, Fjords & Geothermal Wonders - 20 Days

Explore New Zealand's diverse landscapes on this 20-day tour. Start on the North Island, where the lush vineyards of Waiheke and the geothermal wonders of Rotorua await. Wander Hawke's Bay's beaches and spot kiwi birds at Zealandia before sailing to the South Island. Here, you'll discover the mighty Tasman and Franz Josef glaciers by helicopter and boat, then cruise UNESCO-listed Milford Sound / Piopiotahi. End with a ride on the TranzAlpine, one of the world's most spectacular railway journeys.

Spot whales off New Zealand's East Coast in Kaikoura

Auckland to Christchurch Road Trip: Food, Wine & Nature Trail - 20 Days

Get a taste of New Zealand's rich food, wine, and natural wonders on this 20-day adventure. Travel from Auckland to Christchurch, stopping to enjoy food tours and cooking classes, feast on barbecue at a Queenstown farm, and visit Kumeu's world-famous vineyards. Natural highlights include captivating glowworm caves, Rotorua's geothermal landscapes, and the mighty Franz Josef Glacier. You'll also take an overnight cruise across the serene waters of Doubtful Sound.

New Zealand's mix of country and city will inspire you to explore

Epic New Zealand Road Trip: Auckland to Queenstown - 21 Days

On this 21-day adventure by air, land, and sea, you don't have to pick between New Zealand's North and South Islands—see the best of both. Experience the glowworm caves of Waitomo and the country's largest glacier on Lake Tasman. Let your taste buds guide you to a Maori village feast and the wines of Martinborough. Cross the scenic Cook Straight by boat, and see behind the scenes of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" in the Weta Workshop in Wellington.

Fly over and explore the Tasman Glacier in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park

Best of the South Island Road Trip: Glaciers, Mountains, Coasts & Fjords - 21 Days

Explore the entire length of New Zealand's South Island on this exciting 21-day road trip. Start in the tranquil coves of Abel Tasman National Park before following the coastline to Kaikoura for some whale watching. Continue through Christchurch and Dunedin as you make your way to the deep, cold waters of Fiordland National Park and the frozen peaks of the Southern Alps.

The road to Mount Cook National Park on New Zealand's South Island

New Zealand Scenic Self-Drive Tour: Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Canterbury & Otago - 11 Days

One of the best ways to experience New Zealand's diverse geography and wildlife is to get on the road and see it for yourself. This 11-day itinerary forges a path from the rolling hills, limestone caves, and Hobbit holes of the North Island to the whale-friendly coasts, fjords, and gorges of the South Island. Along the way you'll visit with native birds, fly over a glacier in a helicopter, and unwind at a geothermal spa.

Spot sheep in the snow-covered farmland of New Zealand's South Island

New Zealand Winter Discovery - 14 Days

If you plan to visit New Zealand in June, July, or August, this two-week winter trip includes the best of the North and South islands, with seasonal adventures like skiing and whale watching adding a layer of richness. Your self-drive journey begins in Queenstown with a snow day and a Milford Sound / Piopiotahi tour. Journey north to Picton via Aoraki / Mount Cook, Christchurch, and Kaikoura, then cross between the islands by ferry to see the best of temperate Wellington, Rotorua, and Auckland.

Highlights of New Zealand's South Island: Kaikoura, Mt. Cook, Queenstown & More - 12 Days

The 12-day itinerary includes some of the South Island's greatest experiences. It begins in Nelson, at the top of the South Island, and ends in Queenstown, near the bottom. Between these two towns you'll get the chance to try some of New Zealand's finest wine in its largest wine-producing region, Marlborough; spot whales in Kaikoura; see glaciers and glacial lakes at Mt. Cook; cruise on iconic Milford Sound; try adventure sports in the adrenaline capital of New Zealand, Queenstown; and much more.

Road leading to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, South Island

Self-Drive New Zealand: South Island Food & Nature Adventure - 13 Days

Experience the finest food and nature New Zealand has to offer on this 13-day South Island tour. Drive a loop of the island, stopping to cruise glacier lakes and paper-flat sounds, stay in a wilderness lodge, and spot seals on the Otago Peninsula. You'll even soar over Queenstown at sunrise in a hot air balloon. Along the way, dine on a historic tram in Christchurch, taste famous ales at Speights Brewery, and indulge in a traditional Kiwi feast at High Country Farm.

Drive to Cape Kidnappers for impressive views of the coast and a gannet colony

Ultimate New Zealand East Coast Road Trip: Queensland to Auckland - 13 Days

Embark on a 13-day whirlwind tour of New Zealand's North and South Islands as you follow the east coast. Begin in Queenstown, a southern city known for extreme adventure sports, then make your way up as you visit wine regions like Wanaka and Kaikoura and see glaciers in Aoraki / Mount Cook. Take a ferry to North Island, stopping in Wellington, the capital, before visiting volcanic landscapes and Maori villages in Rotorua. The tour finishes with a tour of Waitomo Caves and Auckland, the country's largest city.

Walk along Lake Wakatipu in the early morning, Queenstown

New Zealand North & South Islands Road Trip: Auckland to Queenstown - 13 Days

Get to know New Zealand's cities, towns, and stunning landscapes on this 13-day road trip. Begin in the North Island, where you'll explore Auckland, the Coromandel Peninsula, and Hobbiton, the film set of "The Lord of the Rings." Continue to Taupo for bungee jumping and hiking, then visit Rotorua to see Waiotapu's geothermal wonders. Next, move on to Christchurch and the South Island, where you'll hike, dine, cruise, and fly your way around Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown, and the Franz Josef / Waiau Glacier.

See plenty of sheep as you explore the coastline from Christchurch

Discover New Zealand's South Island from Coast to Coast - 13 Days

Discover New Zealand's South Island on this 13-day road trip, suited for the intrepid traveler. Starting and ending in Christchurch, you'll soar over the city in a hot-air balloon, then drive the open road to Aoraki / Mount Cook and Haupapa / Tasman Glacier. Visit Dunedin, the Edinburgh of South Island, cruise along the Otago Peninsula to see giant Albatrosses, and take to Dart River's glacier-fed rapids in a jet boat. The tour wraps up with a heli-hike to Franz Josef Glacier and a trip riding the TranzAlpine Scenic Train.

Cruise the glassy waters of Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, a fjord on New Zealand's South Island

Road Trip New Zealand's North & South Islands - 15 Days

Cover New Zealand's North and South Islands' highlights, starting in Auckland before discovering the geothermal activity of Rotorua. Next, you'll reach Napier and wine taste at Hawke Bay, followed by a Wellington city tour and meeting native kiwis. Cross the Cook Strait to Picton on the South Island, see whales in Kaikōura, and hike Aoraki / Mount Cook. Then, cruise Milford Sound / Piopiotahi before ending your trip with a scenic ride aboard the TranzAlpine train to Christchurch.

Mother and child looking at mountains in New Zealand

New Zealand Family Explorer from North to South - 14 Days

Whether you have younger or older kids, this two-week itinerary includes various outdoor and adventure-focused activities to keep everyone interested and entertained. While many travelers to New Zealand only focus on one island, this carefully planned itinerary includes both the North and South Islands by making use of a domestic flight. Explore the geothermal attractions of the North Island as well as the rugged mountains and glaciers of the South Island—and lots more.

New Zealand North & South Island Road Trip Highlights: Auckland to Queenstown - 15 Days

Travel New Zealand from top to tail on this 15-day self-drive adventure. Start in the North Island, where you'll explore Maori culture and geothermal landscapes and tour the Hobbiton film set from "The Lord of the Rings." Next, take the Interislander ferry to the South Island for whale watching and glacier tours, followed by a trip to the country's adventure capital, Queenstown. The journey ends with a cruise of the famous, UNESCO-listed Milford Sound.

Brave the ultimate New Zealand experience with a bungee jump off Kawarau Bridge

Active Adventure on New Zealand's North & South Islands - 16 Days

Adventure seekers rejoice—this action-packed odyssey through New Zealand delivers plenty of excitement as you wind your way through the country's most stunning natural scenery by car, train, and ferry. Go bungee jumping and skydiving over the adventure capital of Queenstown, cruise under waterfalls in Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, and go heli-hiking on Franz Josef Glacier. After ziplining over Rotorua's forest canopy, finish with a SkyWalk on top of Auckland's Sky Tower.

Travel at your own pace as you explore national parks, like Aoraki / Mount Cook

New Zealand Self-Drive Loop in the South Island - 20 Days

Spend 20 unforgettable days driving around one of the most naturally beautiful places in the world: New Zealand's South Island. You'll begin the loop in Christchurch, then continue to scenic Lakes Tekapo and Pukaki for stargazing and outdoor adventures. Visit the Scottish-style city of Dunedin before moving on to the island of Te Anau. Enjoy urban sightseeing in adrenaline-fueled Queenstown before exploring glaciers and hot springs on the island's north end to finish the itinerary.

Discover the wild coastline of the Otago Peninsula on this 21-day road trip

New Zealand: Ultimate South Island Self-Drive - 21 Days

This 21-day road trip carves a figure-eight through New Zealand's South Island. From Christchurch, travel through the Mackenzie Country to Aoraki / Mount Cook, then on to Otago and Dunedin. Explore remote Doubtful Sound before heading north to Queenstown and the West Coast Glaciers, then cross the Southern Alps to enjoy a night in Arthur's Pass National Park. After exploring the Marlborough wine region and the golden sands of Abel Tasman National Park, end your trip with a scenic train journey back to Christchurch.