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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
Meeting dolphins in Kaikoura | New Zealand wildlife
Meeting dolphins in Kaikoura | New Zealand wildlife
100% New Zealand

3 weeks of the South Island

Would you love to visit some of the South Island's highlights at a relaxed pace? During this journey, you will see vibrant and buzzing cities, wineries, alluring nature, golden beaches and an array of unique nature. Taste the food, soak up the culture, meet the locals and discover the hidden gems. A trip that allows you to experience New Zealand in an authentic way.

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
Canterbury is the largest region of New Zealand with diverse landscapes
Canterbury is the largest region of New Zealand with diverse landscapes
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
Spot dolphins in Doubtful Sound
Spot dolphins in Doubtful Sound
Cycle through New Zealand's spectacular landscapes
Cycle through New Zealand's spectacular landscapes
Conquer the Fox Glacier Heli-hike
Conquer the Fox Glacier Heli-hike
Travel at a relaxed pace and find the hidden gems of the West Coast Route
Travel at a relaxed pace and find the hidden gems of the West Coast Route
Discover the crystal waters of Abel Tasman
Discover the crystal waters of Abel Tasman
Join a boat cruise, swim with dolphins and seals or take a scenic flight in Kaikoura
Join a boat cruise, swim with dolphins and seals or take a scenic flight in Kaikoura
The best way to explore Christchurch is on foot
The best way to explore Christchurch is on foot

Canterbury

2 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.

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.

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.

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.

Franz Josef & Fox

2 nights

Originating from the Southern Alps and descending to sea level, both glaciers flow around ten times faster than most valley glaciers. Get a birds-eye view on a scenic helicopter flight.

Punakaiki

2 nights

Punakaiki lies at the edge of the Paparoa National Park, the home of the famous Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Wander through native forest to the rugged coastline and gaze at the unique limestone formations.

Abel Tasman

3 nights

Explore the coastline, golden beaches and lush native forest by foot. Or kayak past secluded bays and islands, and spot marine life such as seals, penguins and dolphins.

Kaikoura

3 nights

Kaikoura lies between the rugged Seaward Kaikoura Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean, offering spectacular views. The nutrient-rich water attracts whales, seals, albatross and dolphins.

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 guide per person

Travellers
Select accommodation and car
Included accommodations
  • 22 nights in comfortable bed & breakfasts, cottages, holiday houses
  • Pleasant rooms with an ensuite or a private bathroom
  • Includes some breakfasts
Included car
  • Rental for a medium SUV for 23 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
Comfortable bedroom | New Zealand accommodation for friends
Table and chairs set up outside near a fireplace
Included accomodations
  • 22 nights in superior bed & breakfasts, cottages, holiday houses
  • Delightful rooms with an ensuite and a nice view
  • Includes most breakfasts and some dinners
Included car
  • Rental for a medium SUV for 23 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
Barbecue dinner with local hosts | New Zealand holiday
Included accomodations
  • 22 nights staying at exclusive holiday houses, villas, lodges
  • Spacious suites with an eye for luxury and design
  • Includes all breakfasts and several dinners
Included car
  • Rental for a medium SUV for 23 days
  • Full insurance with $0 excess as standard
  • During your trip, your kilometres (and flights) are fully CO2 compensated
Luxury accommodation | New Zealand holiday
Fish and vegetables delicately plated for fine dining
Evening view of two chalets on the banks of a river surrounded by mountain
Add flight
Explore the history, architecture and culture of Hong Kong during your stopover
Select car
Add activities
Price guide per person
Price per adult
Accommodation
and car change
0
Your flight change
0
Your car up- or downgrade change
0
Your activities change
0
Total price per adult
0
Price for all travellers
Adults 18+
0
Youth 12-17 yrs
0
Children 2-11 yrs
0
Infants 0-1 yr
0
Price indication for 1 traveller(s)
0

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.

  • Detailed information
  • Inspirational
  • No obligations
  • Be well prepared
Step 1
Your journey
Detailed guide for
3 weeks of the South Island
Travellers
None
Accommodation and car
None
Flight
None chosen
Selected car
None
Activities
None
Change
Preferred time of year
Remarks
Step 2
Contact options
Contact person

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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