Seal on the beach at Otago Peninsula | New Zealand wildlife
Seal on the beach at Otago Peninsula | New Zealand wildlife
Get 'off the beaten' track together with your family

4 weeks from Queenstown to Christchurch

New Zealand, a world of wonder. This trip is ideal for a family holiday to connect with New Zealand's nature. Watch in awe as your kids discover elusive nature and wildlife. Meet friendly locals. And absorb the unique local experiences. Right there in your backyard, or just down the road.

Quick facts about this sample itinerary

Below, you can discover our suggested locations. 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

new-zealand
Enjoy a day trip to the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu by jet boat
Enjoy a day trip to the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu by jet boat
Spot dolphins in Doubtful Sound
Spot dolphins in Doubtful Sound
Have a close encounter with Kiwi on Stewart Island
Have a close encounter with Kiwi on Stewart Island
Explore an untouched, rugged corner of New Zealand
Explore an untouched, rugged corner of New Zealand
Have a close encounter with wildlife on the Otago Peninsula
Have a close encounter with wildlife on the Otago Peninsula
Lake Wanaka is the gateway to exploring the wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park
Lake Wanaka is the gateway to exploring the wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park
Enjoy picturesque views in every direction in Omarama
Enjoy picturesque views in every direction in Omarama
Soak up the fresh rural air with views of the snow-capped Southern Alps
Soak up the fresh rural air with views of the snow-capped Southern Alps
The best way to explore Christchurch is on foot
The best way to explore Christchurch is on foot

Queenstown

4 nights

New Zealand's adventure capital is centred around the crystal waters of Lake Wakatipu and nestled between dramatic mountain ranges.

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.

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.

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. 

Otago Peninsula

3 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.

Wanaka

3 nights

An ultimate outdoor base to explore the Southern Alps and Mt Aspiring National Park. The crystal clear waters of Lake Wanaka are ideal for fly fishing, boat cruises, jet boating, kayaking and swimming.

Omarama

3 nights

Omarama is home to world-class gliding - soar over the Waitaki Valley and soak up the views of Mount Cook. Sports enthusiasts don’t have to look too far - hiking and mountain biking tracks are plentiful.

Canterbury High Country

3 nights

It’s all about adventure, farms and relaxing amongst nature in the highlands. Go hiking through the mountains, kayaking on Lake Heron or mountain biking on the remote Bridge to Nowhere Cycle Trail.

Christchurch

3 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. 

Price guide per person

Travellers
Select accommodation and car
Included accommodations
  • 28 nights in comfortable holiday houses, farm stays & cottages
  • Pleasant rooms with an ensuite or a private bathroom
  • Includes some breakfasts
Included car
  • Rental for a large SUV for 29 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
Stay in a comfortable chalet | New Zealand holiday with kids
Stay in a comfortable chalet with farm animals | New Zealand holiday with kids
Friendly Kiwi hospitality at our accommodations | New Zealand holiday
Stay in a romantic chalet | New Zealand holiday
Included accomodations
  • 28 nights in superior holiday houses and cottages
  • Delightful rooms with an ensuite and a nice view
  • Includes most breakfasts and some dinners
Included car
  • Rental for a large SUV for 29 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
Very comfortable eco house in Kaikoura | New Zealand holiday
NZ family stays: Kapiti Island
Nature cabin at Kapity Island | New Zealand holiday
Unique homestead | New Zealand holiday
Included accomodations
  • 28 nights staying at exclusive lodges & boutique cottages, holiday houses
  • Spacious suites with an eye for luxury and design
  • Includes all breakfasts and several dinners
Included car
  • Rental for a large SUV for 29 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
Brown wooden lodge with mountains in the background
Birdlife in Fiordland National Park | New Zealand wildlife
Luxury accommodation | New Zealand holiday
Add flight
Experience the comfort of a Business Class flight with Cathay Pacific's lie-flat seats
Explore the history, architecture and culture of Hong Kong during your stopover
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Price guide per person
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Adults 18+
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Youth 12-17 yrs
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Children 2-11 yrs
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Infants 0-1 yr
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Price indication for 1 traveller(s)
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During shoulder season you can enjoy significant price savings. Talk to a specialist now on 020 36 95 95 69

Detailed pricing and information

Every holiday is tailor-made based on your wishes and needs. Our advisors are locals with many tips and ideas to ensure your holiday is just perfect, for you.

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Detailed guide for
4 weeks from Queenstown to Christchurch
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Discover a world beyond ordinary

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.