South Island Self Drive

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South Island Self Drive

Duration13 days

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Cinematic Road to Mount Cook , New Zealand.

Destinations

Days 1-3

Dunedin and Coastal Otago

Explore the beautiful bays, snow capped mountains, stunning wildlife and endless adventure of New Zealand’s South Island by road.

Trip highlights

Explore the pristine forests and beaches of Abel Tasman
Do some whale spotting from the air above Kaikoura
Cycle around the beautiful landscapes that surround Queenstown
Take a memorable scenic flight around Mount Cook
Spend a night on the blissful waters of Milford Sound
Go on a fascinating wildlife tour across the beautiful Otago Peninsula

Abel Tasman

Whale off Kaikoura

Queenstown by bike

Mount Cook from the air

Milford Sound

Yellow-eyed penguins

Bespoke trips with Jacada

We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:

Luxury accommodation throughout
Privately guided tours
Private transfers
Meticulously selected experiences
Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge

Black and white illustration of two guides pointing to a building in the distance

Itinerary in detail

Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.

Days 1-3

Sunny Abel Tasman

New Zealand’s sunniest region has a diverse geography ripe for exploring from golden sand beaches to dense forests, the clearest fresh water lake in the world and secluded, enticing rivers. At the heart of it all is a creative, easy-going city deemed one of New Zealand’s most liveable. The region’s biggest attraction is the Abel Tasman National Park, the country’s smallest national park that frequents the front pages of tourist brochures with its dream-like golden sand beaches, emerald green waters and friendly fur seal population. Hike, boat or kayak into one of its many beaches and coves.

Where you could stay

Nelson and Abel Tasman

Split Apple Retreat

High above Tasman Bay, Split Apple Retreat offers both every indulgence as well as the promise of a focus on good health. This quiet Abel Tasman National Park luxury retreat and wellness hideaway is the ideal place to relax and pamper yourself in pristine surrounds. Two of the ocean-facing rooms, Fuji and Lotus, boast the best in Japanese-style luxury with private decks and gardens and Japanese granite baths. The third, Rainbow, a two-level room with a separate lounge, features colour-changing LED lights in the bath and shower. Split Apple retreat specialises in serving gourmet food with a focus on good health and mouth-watering presentation. The result of a collaboration between a doctor specialising in nutrition and a culinary artist, the retreat has become known for its dedication to fine food that promotes longevity. To ensure guests can continue eating mindfully at home, the chef guides budding culinary artists through a number of her popular dishes. Continuing the focus on wellness, there are a wide range of services to help guests unwind, relax and rejuvenate. Choose from a selection of massage treatments, learn how to meditate, or sign up for a private yoga session. The gym, infrared sauna, steam room and infinity pool leave guests feeling thoroughly refreshed. For adventuring beyond the lodge, private boats and water taxis land at Split Apple Beach to collect guests keen on visiting the Abel Tasman National Park.

Nelson and Abel Tasman

Edenhouse

Get a taste of six-star luxury at Edenhouse, nestled in the serene Orinoco Valley in the heart of rural Nelson. This enchanting country retreat, set in 50 acres of private grounds and eight acres of internationally acclaimed gardens, offers guests a unique and memorable experience. There is one large luxurious suite in the main lodge, as well as two beautifully appointed and private cottages – the Folly Cottage with one bedroom and the Garden Cottage with two bedrooms. All rooms feature pure Irish linen sheets and deluxe toiletries. Edenhouse is furnished to a high standard, with the emphasis on comfort, understated luxury and attention to detail. As well as enjoying the sitting room, dining room, artists’ studio and library, guests can explore the expansive landscaped gardens and several courtyard areas. The picturesque valley has an abundance of native bird life. During summer the gardens offer a cool oasis, while open fires throughout the lodge ensure the winter months are toasty. Dinners at the lodge are prepared using fresh organic ingredients, and there are fine wines from local boutique wineries included on the menu. Mindful of the importance of complete relaxation, a highly-qualified team of therapists is on hand to provide a variety of therapeutic treatments to guests in the peace and privacy of their suites. Located at the top of South Island, bordered by rugged wilderness and golden beaches, the lodge is near to many popular tourist attractions, including The Abel Tasman National Park.

Make it mine

Boat trip

Urban foraging

Abel Tasman day trip

Get a taste of all the Abel Tasman has to offer from the comfort of an Abel Tasman Charters’ boat. You can simply relax onboard or take one of the kayaks for a paddle. Go for a swim, snorkel over the marine reserve or be dropped off for a bush walk. You’ll pass Split Apple Rock, Kaiteriteri, Marahau, round golden sandy bays, Adele and Fishermans Islands, and cruise on to Tonga Island seal colony.

Nelson food foraging tour

Nelson has long had a reputation as one of the sunniest regions in New Zealand and has attracted innovative food, wine and craft beer producers from around the world. The amazing climate is ideal for many latitudinal crops and combined with the unique flair of the residents an amazing array of food and produce can be found. There is a tantalizing array of delicious treats and gourmet products that you can taste and collect.

Days 3-5

Captivating Kaikoura

Kaikoura, a quaint village between the snowcapped Kaikoura Range and Pacific Ocean, is a haven for wildlife fanatics and adventure sports enthusiasts alike. For the former, the region has been dubbed the ‘maritime Serengeti’, the sea here one of the best places in New Zealand to go whale and dolphin watching. For the active, there are wonderful hiking and mountain biking trails along the coast, fine surfing, sea kayaking and more.

Where you could stay

Kaikoura

Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses

The work of a family of architects and builders, Hapuku Lodge is an extraordinary ecolodge perfectly placed between the white peaks of the Kaikoura Mountain Range and waves of Mangamaunu Bay. With an environmentally-friendly focus, this lodge was carefully constructed from salvaged timber and seeks to be sustainable in every area. There are four ultra-spacious rooms in the main lodge with wonderful mountain views, Japanese soaking tubs with room for two and immense custom beds – said to be the best on the island. The two suites also have their own fireplaces and a living area. However, the real stars of the show are the luxurious treehouses, standing 10m (30 feet) above the ground in the canopy of a native Manuka grove, each with a wood-burning fireplace, spa bath, open rain showers and large glass windows with a birds-eye view to the coast. There are two storey options for families, and the standalone Olive House Suite has room for two adults and up to three children. Dining at Hapuku means an organic and locally-sourced menu, with produce collected from the hotel’s own herb and vegetable gardens, free-range chicken populations and meat from nearby hunters and fishermen. Constantly changing and evolving offerings may include venison, wild blackberries, a variety of cheese, crayfish and even homemade plum ice cream. A comprehensive wine list makes sure to incorporate vintages from all over New Zealand, the ideal accompaniment to a wonderful meal. There are adventures to be had in every corner of Kaikoura’s coast, dubbed the ‘Maritime Serengeti’ by the local National Geographic. Head out on the waves in a sea kayak, swim with dolphins and seals or go whale watching to spot the gentle grey giants in the ocean blue. Mountain bikes can be borrowed from the lodge to traverse the surrounding trails while there are also Maori cultural tours, horse riding and the acclaimed surfing of Mangamaunu Bay a short walk away.

Make it mine

Whale watching

Seal swim

Scenic whale watching flight

Whale watching by from the air offers a unique perspective and the opportunity to view whales and dolphins in their natural environment, experiencing the true magnitude of some of the world’s largest animals, and offering a fabulous view for photographers. This scenic flight lasts for around 30 minutes.

Swim with the seals

You’ll be provided with warm, buoyant wet suits and snorkeling equipment before taking a short bus and boat trip. One to two experienced guides, equipped with large float boards will then accompany each group in the water. Due to the seals natural curiosity swimmers can reasonably expect to get up close to the creatures.

Days 5-7

Lakes and peaks

New Zealand’s highest peak, Aroaki Mount Cook, is an arresting sight dominating the skyline of the national park which surrounds it. Its traditional Maori name means ‘cloud piercer’, apt in a stunning alpine landscape where 22 other snow-capped mountains stand over 3000m, towering above flowering meadows, glacial streams and turquoise lakes. One of the park’s highlights are the brightly hued waters of Lake Tekapo, watched over by the humble Church of the Good Shepherd, one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand.

Where you could stay

Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat

On the doorstep of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, the exclusive Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat is set in a forest wilderness by the azure waters of Lake Pukaki, with spectacular, uninterrupted views towards the Southern Alps and Aoraki Mt Cook itself, New Zealand’s highest mountain. There is a range of accommodation options, from the private two-bedroom Ashley Mackenzie Villa and the Moraine Villas that overlook the magnificent Ben Ohau ranges, to the two-bedroom Pukaki Homestead, located just 350 metres from the villa. Breakfast provisions and a three-course evening meal are included. Visit the garden and choose your favourite vegetables for dinner. The garden is bursting with berries, herbs and vegetables – for everything else, pureness and authenticity are paramount when it comes to suppliers. The retreat is located in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. In the company of your hosts, enjoy a superb stargazing experience. Guests also have access to a tennis court, pétanque, croquet, and curling rink (winter).

Lake Tekapo and Aoraki Mount Cook

Lakestone Lodge

This luxury lodge on the shores of Lake Pukaki prides itself on being off-grid and spectacularly situated. The six bedrooms are beautifully appointed and comfortable. Floor to veiling windows offer uninterrupted views of Lake Pukaki and the Southern Alps. Meals are inpired by fresh local produce and menus change daily depending on what is available. And the chef will even prepare your fresh catch for you if you have a successful day out on the water. You’ll also find some of the best local wineries and craft breweries represented on the drinks menu. Head out into the mountains in a helicopter, enjoy a relaxing massage, go cycling through the countryside, or star gaze from your own private bathtub.

New Zealand

Alpine Suites on Tekapo

Located near the shores of Lake Tekapo and just a short walk from the Church of the Good Shepherd, are Alpine Suites on Tekapo. With just two suites, guests will feel right at home here. Bright and airy, rooms feature private outdoor decks from where you will enjoy views of Lake Tekapo and the Two Thumb Mountain Range. Owner Kevin Bowie is a fine art landscape photographer and beautiful images of New Zealand’s stunning scenery are displayed on the walls. Breakfast is served in the dining room which enjoys views of the lake and the Southern Alps and guests will also enjoy complimentary New Zealand wines and craft beers along with local smoked salmon, cheeses and chutneys. You’re ideally located to explore Lake Tekapo as well as Lake Pukaki which is less than a hour away.

Make it mine

Up high

On the Downs

The 'Grand Traverse' scenic flight

Take a spectacular scenic flight that explores the Mt Cook and Westland National Parks and shows you the region from a privileged perspective. You will see beautiful turquoise glacial lakes, the braided river system of the Mackenzie basin, remote high country sheep stations, and New Zealand’s highest mountain Mount Cook, as well as Franz Joseph, Fox and Tasman glaciers.

Tasman Downs Tour

Visit a private high country beef station, Tasman Downs. Your host and property owner Ian Hayman, will treat you to a quirky but informative tour of this three-generational property, sharing insights into a wonderful family history. This property was also transformed into one of the main film sites for The Hobbit Trilogy and you will stand on the shore where ‘Laketown’ was destroyed and its residents washed ashore.

Days 7-10

Cosmopolitan Queenstown

From the towering alpine ranges that envelop Queenstown, to its laidback lakeside sister Wanaka and the incredible Milford Sound, this is easily one of the most spectacular regions of the country. Seek out one of the endless thrills on offer here from skiing, white water rafting, canyon swinging, jet boating, mountain biking and bungy jumping, or slow down to the cosmopolitan pace of life in Queenstown and cool Wanaka.

Where you could stay

Queenstown and Wanaka

Matakauri Lodge

Sat on the shores of the deep Lake Wakatipu, Matakauri Lodge is a tranquil haven of serene blue waters and sweeping mountain landscapes. Snow-capped peaks reach towards the sky, providing a backdrop like no other to this incredible luxury establishment. Modern, bright and with plenty of room, the 16 suites have been styled by the highly celebrated designer Virginia Fisher. Four suites are found in the main lodge section while others have been built in a native forest with alpine panoramas. All have their own private balcony, lounge area and decadent bathroom, not to mention the cosy fireplace. The sizeable Owner’s Cottage is an idyllic getaway for larger groups or families. Boasting a menu that changes constantly with the availability of seasonal produce, the kitchen at Matakauri Lodge focuses on a clean and fresh experience for the palate. There are a number of settings in which to savour this modern New Zealand cuisine, from the privacy of your own patio to the property’s spacious courtyards. Located near great pine thickets, the spa provides an exclusive space where you can rejuvenate and reinvigorate your body with completely personalised treatments. Fall in love with the heated pool, let off some steam in the sauna or enjoy a leisurely time in the hot tub. Whether you arrive to the long, warm days of summer or to a winter wonderland of snow, there is always so much to do during your stay at Matakauri. Walks and hikes dominate the area, as do scenic horse riding trails and wine tours. Avid golfers will rejoice to know a PGA-rated course is nearby; The Hills is surely one of the most stunning and gorgeously isolated round of 18 you can play anywhere in the world.

Queenstown and Wanaka

Hulbert House

A relic of stately Victorian elegance, Hulbert House is a luxury villa that operates as one of Queenstown’s oldest residences. Built in 1888, this boutique hotel offers historic charm with contemporary comforts and modern amenities. Transformed by an award-winning designer, the interiors are vibrant while paying tribute to the antiquity of the property. The six luxury suites are all individually designed, carrying through a feeling of old-world opulence with extravagant, bold and fresh furnishing. Each has views over either Lake Wakatipu, Skyline Hill or the well-kept gardens. A scrumptious breakfast of fresh and delicious ingredients waits those early morning risers, while the kitchen can provide tasty snacks throughout the day. Ideally placed, Hulbert House is found in close proximity to many of the attractions of Queenstown, with popular cafes, restaurants and shops all within walking distance. It is also only 450m from the banks of the large Lake Wakatipu and just a little further from the Skyline Gondola and Luge.

Queenstown and Wanaka

Blanket Bay

Often adorned with flowers beneath a clear blue New Zealand sky, the rustic yet elegant stone lodge of Blanket Bay sits perched upon the shores of Lake Wakatipu. The establishment inhabits a typical South Island alpine setting of vast valleys and great mountains.

Queenstown and Wanaka

Eichardt’s Private Hotel

With a history intertwined with the region’s gold rush, the building of Eichardt’s Private Hotel carries with it the understated and classic elegance of a bygone era. With sweeping views of Lake Wakatipu’s emerald blue waters and eminent mountain peaks, it is a gateway to Queenstown and the untouched wilderness beyond. Choose from Eichardt’s lake view or mountain view suites, or the one- or two-bedroom apartments. For more privacy, or for those looking for a group getaway or family foray, there is the stand-alone three-bed Eichardt’s Residence which has a spacious kitchen, private dining area and sweeping balconies. The hotel bar has been considered a town favourite since 1867, providing the perfect environment in which friends and colleagues can sit down for a refreshing cocktail or a refined vintage from the famed Otago wine region. For those feeling peckish, there are comprehensive tapas menus to suit every palate, with locally sourced seasonal ingredients. The bar also serves breakfast, lunch and dinner in a cosy dining area with a fireplace. From the hotel you can treat yourself to an extensive range of in-room spa treatments provided by a local spa, wander down to the lake edge or head into the heart of the action in bustling Queenstown.

Queenstown and Wanaka

The Spire Hotel Queenstown

Nestled in the heart of Queenstown, The Spire Hotel offers award-winning luxury combining genuine hospitality, serenity and style. Ten spacious suites boast fine contemporary furnishings and design elements, large balconies and roomy bathrooms. Enjoy outstanding local produce prepared with a Mediterranean twist at the in-house bar and restaurant No5 Church Lane. Choose from a variety of Otago and international wines, and signature cocktails. Featuring work by local artists and contemporary furnishings, the restaurant offers a chic yet casual place to relax. The five-star hotel is located within walking distance of the city’s vibrant cultural scene. There are plenty of shops and cafes to explore, as well as an active nightlife and a variety of lake and mountain activities to make your stay a memorable one.

Queenstown and Wanaka

Azur Lodge

Azur Lodge consists of nine private villas set on a hilltop overlooking the surrounding mountain ranges and Lake Wakatipu. The open-plan villas feature a lounge, dining room and a bath tub which has been set into a bay window so you can enjoy the scenic views as you soak. There is also a private sun deck from which to gaze out across the wilderness. Breakfast, afternoon tea and evening canapes are included, and there is the option to dine in the main lodge or in the privacy of your villa. You are conveniently located just 20 minutes from the airport and five minutes from downtown Queenstown, so exploring this wonderful part of New Zealand couldn’t be easier.

Make it mine

Jet boat fun

Air and water

Ride and dine

Kjet jet boat experience

Board your twin-engine jet boat and speed across crystal-clear Lake Wakatipu at breath-taking speed, surrounded by majestic mountains and mesmerising scenery. Zoom under the Kawarau Dam onto the deep green waters of The Kawarau River, complete with lots of 360° spins. You will then arrive at the pier for a complimentary view from Queenstown’s Underwater Observatory.

Helicopter Experience: Milford Sound with fjord cruise

Explore Milford Sound’s stunning fjord from both the air and the water. Enjoy an exhilarating helicopter flight past spectacular rivers, valleys and mountains with blue-green ice falls, then cruise past sheer cliffs and waterfalls – keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, seals and penguins.

Arrowtown Ride, Wine and Dine

Enjoy a 13km bike ride from Arrowtown through to the Kawarau Bungy Bridge. Departing Arrowtown, you’ll follow the Arrow River trail downstream. The ride is grade 1-2 with some undulating hills along the way. You’ll have the option to cycle further along the Gibbston trail to the wineries, where you can enjoy a wine or cheese tasting.

Days 10-11

A night cruising Milford Sound

For the ultimate Milford Sound experience, spend the night aboard the Fiordland Jewel. Cruise the full length of Milford Sound, learning about the history and geology, with plenty of time to view the fiord’s spectacular waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife – you’re bound to encounter seals and, if you’re lucky, maybe dolphin and penguins too. After cruising, anchor at Harrison’s Cove or Deepwater Cove for the night. There is then the opportunity to explore nearby in the on board sea kayaks.

Where you could stay

Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park

Fiordland Jewel

Offering unrivalled access to Milford Sound and the Fiordland region, Fiordland Discovery’s Fiordland Jewel boat features a hot tub, helipad, king suite and cuisine made using seasonal, locally-sourced produce. The Fiordland Jewel sleeps up to 20 people in its nine climate-controlled cabins. Each cabin has its own en-suite bathroom. The boat was specifically designed so that even while on board guests could male the most of the scenery, even enjoying the views slipping by from the comfort of their luxurious beds. Fiordland Discovery’s Rob Swale designed and built the boat himself after looking at different options around the globe. He was adamant that the 24 m, three-deck catamaran needed to have large windows in the cabins and lounge, and that the private cabins should be suitable for families. The Swale family and crew are extremely passionate about the Fiordland area and keen to share their knowledge with guests. There is also watersports equipment on board for those who would like to spend some time kayaking, exploring in a zodiac or fishing. The boat also boasts an unoccupied underwater robot (ROV) that provides high definition underwater footage of Milford Sound and Fiordland. It is fitted with powerful lights that attract marine life, and the live footage is transmitted back to the large screens in the boat’s lounge.

Days 11-13

Explore Dunedin

The main city of the southern part of the South Island, Dunedin is a vibrant place to spend a few days. Its name is distinctly Scottish and the city has a strong and proud Celtic history. The city is full of Victorian and Edwardian architecture and its centre is compact and easy to explore. It is centered around The Octagon, which itself is surrounded by the Public Art Gallery, municipal chambers and St. Pauls Cathedral.

Where you could stay

Dunedin and Coastal Otago

The Chamberson

This beautifully renovated, heritage-listed former warehouse is located in the heart of Dunedin. The contemporary interior makes the most of the original features, with spacious, light-filled, apartment-style rooms. The large windows offer a range of views across the city. Just a short stroll to the city’s cafés, restaurants and bars, and within easy walking distance of many of the most popular attractions, it’s the ideal place to call home if you’re wanting to make the most of your stay in Dunedin. From the outside, it may seem to be a bold heritage industrial building, but step inside and you’re greeted by warm, tactile, welcoming interiors. The contemporary design perfectly complements the remaining beams, plaster and brickwork that hint at the building’s past. The unique rooms are spacious with high ceilings and tall windows, but they are still warm and comfortable. Each boasts great views of the city.

Otago Peninsula wildlife tour

Two Yellow Eyed Penguins standing on the rock

Visit the beautiful Otago Peninsula and its wildlife hotspots. This tour offers a glimpse into the world of tourism and conservation working together for the benefit of the wildlife, and lets you observe estuarine and marine wildlife. Your knowledgeable guide will take you to isolated places inaccessible to others, providing the best possible viewing of unique peninsula wildlife. There’ll be plenty of opportunities to photograph creatures like Hooker’s sea lions, yellow-eyed penguins, blue penguins, a breeding colony of New Zealand fur seals and other sea bird colonies.

“New Zealand Travel with Jacada‌”

London-based support was flawless, however, on-the-ground support in NZ had some opportunities to improve, but overall, very good.

Published 08th March 2019 on Trustpilot

Alec

Why book with Jacada

Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.

Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.

Positive Impact

We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.

Trip highlights

Bespoke trips with Jacada

Itinerary in detail

Days 1-3

Sunny Abel Tasman

Where you could stay

Split Apple Retreat

Edenhouse

Make it mine

Boat trip

Urban foraging

Abel Tasman day trip

Nelson food foraging tour

Days 3-5

Captivating Kaikoura

Where you could stay

Hapuku Lodge & Tree Houses

Make it mine

Whale watching

Seal swim

Scenic whale watching flight

Swim with the seals

Days 5-7

Lakes and peaks

Where you could stay

Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat

Lakestone Lodge

Alpine Suites on Tekapo

Make it mine

Up high

On the Downs

The 'Grand Traverse' scenic flight

Tasman Downs Tour

Days 7-10

Cosmopolitan Queenstown

Where you could stay

Matakauri Lodge

Hulbert House

Blanket Bay

Eichardt’s Private Hotel

The Spire Hotel Queenstown

Azur Lodge

Make it mine

Jet boat fun

Air and water

Ride and dine

Kjet jet boat experience

Helicopter Experience: Milford Sound with fjord cruise

Arrowtown Ride, Wine and Dine

Days 10-11

A night cruising Milford Sound

Where you could stay

Fiordland Jewel

Days 11-13

Explore Dunedin

Where you could stay

The Chamberson

Otago Peninsula wildlife tour

Why book with Jacada

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