Passage through New Zealand

Days 1 – 4: UK – Auckland

Fly from the UK, arriving in Auckland on day three due to the difference in time zones. Unwind after the flight and enjoy this harbour side city. Explore at your leisure, perhaps taking in the views from the top of the Sky Tower or enjoying a boat trip across the harbour to one of the neighbouring islands.

Days 5 – 6: Wellington

The Northern Explorer is a scenic rail journey which runs between Auckland and Wellington. As the train meanders through Tongariro National Park, view its three spectacular volcanic mountains Tongariro, Ngauruhoe and Ruapehu in the distance.

Wellington is the nation’s capital with plenty of attractions and sites to choose from. Make a visit to the Te Papa Museum and learn about the history of New Zealand and its Māori heritage. Take a ride on the famous Wellington Cable Car to the top of Mt Victoria for spectacular panoramic views over the city and harbour.

Days 7 - 8: Picton

Enjoy the scenic ferry crossing from Wellington to Picton at the northern tip of the South Island. As the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds, Picton is a great spot to take a boat cruise though the sounds and enjoy a full day’s walk on the Queen Charlotte Walkway.

Days 9 - 10: Christchurch

Climb aboard the Coastal Pacific Train for one New Zealand’s most picturesque rail journeys. You’ll travel along the Pacific coast meandering breathtakingly close to the sea, where the mighty Pacific Ocean meets the rising Kaikoura Mountains.

Taking just over five hours, the train passes everything from craggy coastal cliffs and rocky outcrops to modern vineyards and rustic farmsteads. Throw in a healthy dose of seals, seagulls, dolphins and the occasional whale, the Coastal Pacific train delivers something for everyone.

Christchurch is the South Island’s largest city, known for its beautiful public gardens, old world charm and architecture, and its quaint and a very walkable city centre. Much of this changed in the 2011 earthquakes, when so much of the city was lost. However, the city is rising to the challenge, quite literally, and it is now home to funky and unique pop-up malls, dozens of new buildings, high street, designer and boutique shops, a world class art gallery and museum, and restaurants galore.

Don’t miss a visit to the Riverside market, a vibrant indoor farmers market with a wonderful range of restaurants to tempt your taste buds with a focus on sustainable local produce.

Day 11: Lake Tekapo

Distance: 226 km / 141 miles

Collect your motorhome and enjoy the drive across the Canterbury plains towards Lake Tekapo. Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd on the shores of Lake Tekapo and take in the wonders of the Mt.John observatory for your own views of this International Dark Sky Reserve. Or why not end the day relaxing in the hot pools with beautiful mountain scenery?

Days 12 - 13: Wanaka

Distance: 199 km / 124 miles

Located in the spectacular Alps of New Zealand’s South Island, Wanaka draws visitors from around the world with its outstanding natural beauty, its stunning mountain and lakeside setting and its proximity to Mt Aspiring National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Area.

Set on the shores of stunning Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown lies just 68 km from Wanaka. Renowned as New Zealand’s adventure capital, it also offers more relaxed experiences, including scenic boat cruises on the lake and unforgettable excursions to Milford Sound.

Days 14 - 15: Franz Josef 

Distance: 287 km / 179 miles

Enjoy the views along the shores of Lake Hawea as you head north and stop for lunch at Makarora before driving through Haast Pass. The scenery here changes dramatically as you enter the rainforest and Haast, a town with a touch of the Wild West. Further along is Lake Moeraki, a peaceful forest lake from which a 1.5 hr return walk takes you to the penguin colony at Monro Beach.

A two-night stay at Franz Josef provides the opportunity to take a scenic helicopter flight (weather permitting), a heli-hike or a valley walk to the glacier face.

Day 16: Carters Beach

Distance: 279 km / 174 miles

With the Tasman Sea on one side and the Southern Alps rising on the other, take it slowly and enjoy this scenic drive. Be sure to stop at Punakaiki and marvel at the bizarre limestone landscapes and powerful vents of ‘Pancake Rocks’, formed millions of years ago. Continue onto Carters Beach for an overnight stay.

Days 17 - 18: Nelson

Distance: 218 km / 136 miles

Your next stop is Nelson, famously known for enjoying the most sunshine hours in New Zealand. This charming town has a vibrant, artistic vibe, with an abundance of galleries, cafes, and historic sites lining its streets. Nestled between mountains, rivers, lakes, and beaches, Nelson offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation. It’s also a haven for food and drink lovers, boasting a wide selection of craft breweries and acclaimed wineries, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Day 19: Picton

Embark on a picturesque journey to Picton, with a tranquil stop in Havelock, the renowned Greenshell Mussel capital of New Zealand. In this quaint historic town, savour a mouthwatering lunch of its famed Greenshell Mussels complemented by a glass of local Marlborough wine. While you're there, browse local art galleries or set off on a scenic sightseeing boat tour.

Day 20: Martinborough

Distance: 219 km / 137 miles + Ferry

Board the ferry for your return trip across the Cook Strait to Wellington and then continue to Martinborough.

Packed with colonial charm, Martinborough features over 20 wineries, most within cycling and walking distance of the quaint village square. Some of New Zealand’s best pinot noir comes from the town’s predominately family-owned vineyards, so it’s not surprising it is a key stop on the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail.

Days 21 – 22: Napier

Distance: 267 km / 167 miles

Often referred to as the Art Deco capital of the world, Napier is in the Hawke’s Bay region which is famous for its vineyards. Many of these serve gourmet food to accompany their award-winning wines, giving you the opportunity to enjoy some mouth-watering cuisine.

Days 23 – 24: Rotorua

Distance: 218 km / 135 miles

Rotorua, celebrated for its vibrant Māori culture, offers a captivating glimpse into the traditions, customs, and beliefs of the indigenous people. Be sure to visit the nearby geothermal wonderland to witness spouting geysers, bubbling mud pools, and colourful mineral springs. With 18 lakes and a haven for mountain bikers of all skill levels, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy.

Days 25 – 26: Whitianga

Distance: 214 km / 132 miles

The Coromandel Peninsula is a beautiful, rugged area with plenty of beaches to explore. Many Kiwis choose to escape the hustle and bustle of city life here, and it's easy to see why. You can dig out your very own hot pool metres from the Pacific Ocean at world-famous Hot Water Beach, or head for Cathedral Cove where a huge arched cavern passes through the headland, joining up two secluded coves. Relax in the cafes and enjoy the art galleries or just take in the wonderful scenery.

Day 27: Auckland

Distance: 168km / 105 miles)

Head back to Auckland to return your motorhome, then transfer to your hotel for a final night in the vibrant City of Sails. There’ll be time for a leisurely meal next to the harbour and some last-minute souvenir shopping.

Days 28 - 29: Auckland – UK

Time to bid farewell to New Zealand as you are transferred to the airport for your overnight flight back to the UK.