22 days +

Start: Auckland
Finish: Christchurch

Day 1, from Auckland, head north to explore the tranquil waterways of the Bay of Islands. Day 2, visit Kaitaia and take a day trip to sample the rugged isolation of Cape Reinga. Day 3, head back to the city and indulge in Auckland’s café-culture. Day 4, head to The Coromandel for stunning scenery and endless beaches. Day 5, check out the beautiful Bay of Plenty and go gallery-combing. Day 6, at Rotorua you’ll discover Maori culture and geothermal activity. Day 7, stop at Taupo where you can leap into outdoor adventure. Day 8, take a round trip to Tongariro National Park. Day 9, marvel at the underground beauty of the Waitomo Caves. Day 10, visit New Plymouth and see the picture-perfect cone of Mt Taranaki. Day 11, head for the city and reflect as you sip a coffee or a cocktail in the culture-capital of Wellington. Day 12, cross to the South Island and explore the stunning landscapes and wineries of Marlborough. Day 13, visit Kaikoura and go swimming with dolphins. Day 14, soak up the atmosphere and heritage of Christchurch city. Day 15, head for the southern city of Dunedin. Day 16, journey further south to Invercargill. Day 17, visit the pristine wilderness of Stewart Island. Day 18, head for the picture-postcard lake at Te Anau. Day 19, travel to Milford Sound and take a cruise before making the long drive to Queenstown. Day 20, stop for breakfast in Wanaka then experience the jaw-dropping beauty of South Westland as you drive through the Haast Pass. Day 21, from Fox Glacier, head to the town of Greymouth. Day 22, cross the Southern Alps at Arthur’s Pass and finish your journey in Christchurch.