Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?

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.

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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

Route and Impressions
Price guide per person
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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

This itinerary will be customised to suit your individual wishes
Best travel time is September - October and March - April
Moderate travel pace with 3-4 nights at each location
The average drive between each accommodation is 2 to 4 hours
Stay with locals at 9 locations, away from the crowds
Choose from a diverse mix of activities with locals
Domestic flight from Christchurch to Queenstown
Collect your rental car in Queenstown and return in Christchurch

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

Enjoy a day trip to the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu by jet boat

Spot dolphins in Doubtful Sound

Have a close encounter with Kiwi on Stewart Island

Explore an untouched, rugged corner of New Zealand

Have a close encounter with wildlife on the Otago Peninsula

Lake Wanaka is the gateway to exploring the wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park

Enjoy picturesque views in every direction in Omarama

Soak up the fresh rural air with views of the snow-capped Southern Alps

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

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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Step 1

Your journey

Detailed guide for

4 weeks from Queenstown to Christchurch

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Preferred time of year

September - November (spring)

December - February (summer)

March - May (autumn)

June - August (winter)

Flexible, when it's the best time to travel

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Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?

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.

Call us 020 36 95 95 69 Request information Join a presentation

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.

Call us 020 36 95 95 69 Request information Join a presentation