At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Below, you can discover a suggested itinerary, but we design each holiday for you. Enjoy a taste, and contact us to discuss your plans.
Quick facts about this sample itinerary
This itinerary will be customised to suit your individual wishes
Best travel time is October - November and March - April
Relaxed travel pace with 2-3 nights at each location
The average drive between each accommodation is 3.5 to 5 hours
Stay with locals at 10 locations, away from the crowds
Choose from a diverse mix of activities with locals
Collect and return your rental car in Christchurch
Feel free to adjust your comfort level, add activity packages along the route, and indicate whether you would like us to arrange your flights. The price indication is based on travel in high season, so shoulder season travel will often give you a price advantage.
Route and Impressions
The best way to explore Christchurch is on footSwim with Hector's dolphinCanterbury is the largest region of New Zealand with diverse landscapesHave a close encounter with wildlife on the Otago PeninsulaExplore an untouched, rugged corner of New ZealandHave a close encounter with Kiwi on Stewart IslandSpot dolphins in Doubtful SoundEnjoy a day trip to the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu by jet boatCycle through New Zealand's spectacular landscapesDon't miss out on a picture-perfect moment at The Church of the Good ShepherdThe best way to explore Christchurch is on foot
Christchurch
2 nights
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens should be at the top of your list during your stay here, spreading over 21 hectares. Set in Hagley Park, it is a popular park for the locals to enjoy a range of sporting activities.
Akaroa
3 nights
Enjoy the scenic drive to Akaroa on the Bank’s Peninsula. A historic French village, home to colonial architecture, galleries and craft stores. Hector's dolphin can be spotted swimming here.
Canterbury
3 nights
The impressive Southern Alps mountain range makes for a mighty backdrop. Spend a few days on a farm stay and experience the day-to-day rural life of a farmer and their animals.
Otago Peninsula
2 nights
The scenic drive to Otago Peninsula boasts rugged volcanic views with untouched beaches. Home to an abundance of wildlife including New Zealand fur seals, albatross and yellow-eyed penguins.
Catlins
3 nights
Swim with rare Hector’s dolphins at Curio Bay. Spot yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals and sun-bathing sea lions. Heading inland, there are many waterfalls to explore, scattered around the coastal rainforest.
Stewart Island
3 nights
Experience the wild beauty with dense forest, rugged coastline and sandy beaches. The Rakiura National Park makes up 85% of the island. Discover the hiking tracks and spot native Kiwi birds.
Te Anau & Manapouri
3 nights
The perfect base to visit Doubtful and Milford Sounds. Adventure lovers can also kayak, take a scenic flight, go jet boat fishing or sailing on the lake. Driving along the Milford Road is simply breathtaking.
Queenstown
3 nights
New Zealand's adventure capital is centred around the crystal waters of Lake Wakatipu and nestled between dramatic mountain ranges.
Central Otago
3 nights
Featuring a vast brown landscape, snow-capped mountains, crystal blue rivers, deep gorges and tussock-clad hills. Go vineyard hopping or cycle the 152-kilometre Otago Central Rail Trail.
Tekapo
3 nights
Gleaming with bright turquoise waters and surrounded by the peaks of the Southern Alps. It’s the best place to stargaze in New Zealand, with its clear nights and lack of light pollution.
Christchurch
1 night
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens should be at the top of your list during your stay here, spreading over 21 hectares. Set in Hagley Park, it is a popular park for the locals to enjoy a range of sporting activities.
Price From
£6,400Per person
Whats included?
28 nights staying at comfortable small-scale accommodations
Relaxed travel pace with 1-3 nights at each location
Stay at 12 different locations
Accommodations include bed & breakfasts, cottages, villas and lodges
Most breakfasts and several dinners
Your holiday is CO2 compensated
Return premium economy flights
Fully insured medium SUV
Choose from a diverse mix of active activities in nature with locals
We can alter this itinerary to suit your needs and interests
At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Questions? Speak to one of our specialists by phone Mon - Sat 9am until 6pm. You can discuss your travel plans in detail where and when it suits you, also in the evenings and on weekends on a no obligation basis.
020 36 95 95 69
