Road Trip New Zealand: North & South Island
The ultimate New Zealand road trip: Explore both islands in one epic adventure
This epic road trip will guide you through all the best New Zealand's 2 main islands has to offer in three weeks or more. We've included some of the most major stops on this route, but if you have more than 3 weeks, there's plenty of more to see.
Adventure through alpine meadows, ancient glaciers and snow-capped mountains as you experience stunning filming locations, Middle-earth activities and more. Experience friendly kiwi hospitality at its best and fully immerse yourself in the very best of New Zealand with this comprehensive adventure.
You start the adventure in Christchurch and end it in Auckland. If you do the road trip in this order, there will not be applied a one-way fee to your total cost (there will if you do it vice versa).
You could easily spend 3 weeks in just one of the islands alone, but we've tried to compile a best of for both islands in around 3 weeks. If you have more time, great! Then you just get to experience even more.
Highlights of the trip
Tailor-your-trip
Start with a suggested route & adjust to match your wishes with our travel experts
from
£3,072
/person
for 2 people including flights
Included
Flight
Accommodation
Transfers
Activities
Quick and easy booking process with KILROY
1
Get in touch
Tell us about your travel plans, ideas, and goals.
2
Share your plans
We'll get to know you and what you're looking for.
3
Fine-tune the details
We'll shape the perfect trip together.
4
Book with confidence
We'll secure everything and take care of the details.
5
Get ready
Pack your bags and start the countdown.
Suggested itinerary
This suggested journey is just the beginning. Fine-tune the route, experiences, and details with our experts to make it your own.
Exploring Christchurch
Steepest street in Dunedin
Waitomo caves in New Zealand
Week 1: Christchurch, Arthur's Pass, Fox Glacier, Wanaka, Queenstown
Kick off your adventure in Christchurch, a laid-back city packed with great food, nightlife, and outdoor experiences. We've included your first night, so all you need to do is arrive and start exploring.
Hit the road to Arthur's Pass, where epic mountain scenery and unforgettable hikes await. Trust us, this is just a taste of what's to come.
Next, head to the wild West Coast and discover the incredible Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier. Whether you're here for the views or the hikes, these icy giants won't disappoint.
Continue south to Wānaka and Queenstown, two of New Zealand's adventure capitals. Snap a photo of Wānaka's famous lone tree, tackle the legendary Roys Peak hike, then head to Queenstown for adrenaline-filled activities, stunning lake views, and lively evenings.
At a glance
Price overview
From price per person, including return flights, based on two travellers sharing
What's included with this trip?
Flights to Christchurch
1-night pre road trip in hostel in Christchurch
Jucy Condo campervan rental (21 days)
2 nights post road trip in hostel in Auckland
Flights home from Auckland
All booking fees
Your own travel specialist
Travel insurance (but we can help you with that!)
Vaccinations
Meals
Ferry pass between North & South Island
Optional activities / add-ons
Need help planning your trip?
Our travel experts can help you refine your ideas, pick the right destinations and plan your trip from start to finish.
Frequently asked questions
Find here answers to all of your questions about this road trip in New Zealand.
We recommend at least 3 weeks to experience the highlights of both the North and South Island. If you have more time, even better. New Zealand is packed with incredible places worth exploring beyond the suggested route.
Following the route in this direction helps you avoid a one-way rental fee on your camper. Reversing the itinerary may result in additional charges.
Absolutely. This route is designed as a guide to some of New Zealand's must-see destinations, but you can easily add extra stops, activities, or detours along the way.
The advertised price is based on the driver being 25 years or older. If you're younger, don't worry. Get in touch with us and we'll help you find the best available options.
Yes. New Zealand is one of the world's best destinations for campervan travel, with excellent roads, well-equipped holiday parks, and plenty of facilities for road trippers.
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