This unforgettable journey truly does offer something for everyone with a fantastic mix of relaxation and thrill-seeking activities on a journey of discovery from a secluded alpine spa town to the coasts. You will crisscross the vast plains, passing vineyards, rolling hill country and the wonderful clear braided rivers of North Canterbury that lead down to a deserted and unspoiled coastline full of both swimming and surf beaches and amazing wildlife!

The wonderful Waipara wine region might be small, but it is the fastest growing of all of New Zealand's wine regions producing award winning Pinot Noir and Rieslings. While there are some major players in the area, most of the 75 vineyards that inhabit this area are small, boutique wineries producing high end wines for the region. The area is also strewn with olive groves and bright fields of lavender, making this section of North Canterbury quite stunning. 

From the fertile fields to the braided rivers, swimming and surf opportunities, the North Canterbury waterways have it all. Its coastline is filled with little hidden gems while the rivers that come out of the high country provide awesome fresh water swimming and fishing opportunities. 

It’s not all about the countryside however, with two world class towns on this route. Hanmer Springs alpine spa town will spoil and excite you while the quite amazing plethora of sites and wildlife available at Kaikoura, one of the best places to view whales and marine wildlife anywhere in the world will thrill you!  

This route can be accessed by those finishing up the treasured pathway in the North, or the Wild West Coast Road in the West to extend your road trips into longer adventures or it can be done as a loop itinerary from the hub of Christchurch as shown here.  

Not all road trip routes are created equal. Here are the top themed highways showcasing the best Aotearoa has to offer.

This road trip is thousands of years in the making. If you're looking to make the most of your North Island holiday, 14 days gives you just the right amount of time to explore the variety of sites, tastes and adventures the North has to offer! This route takes in the best of the best from not one but FOUR themed highways of the North Island as you visit the Norths iconic attractions. From one of the best day hikes in the world, the great Lake Taupo and Rotorua,  to the crystal clear waters of the Bay of Islands, the sparking living stars of Waitomo and so much more, every day is an adventure.

Visit the coastal jewels in the crown of the Twin Coast Highway as you take in the wonderous sites of the Bay of Islands, the beating heart of Aotearoa and the world famous Tutukaka Coast along with the ancient forests of the Kauri coast.

Join on to the Pacific Coastal Route and visit the world-famous highlights of the Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach along with the other amazing coastal sites of the wonderful Coromandel peninsula.

The Thermal Highway and the Volcanic Loop provide you the amazing sites and experiences of the thermal capital of New Zealand at Rotorua, along with our largest lake at Taupo and of course one of the world's premier day hikes – the mighty Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

From great walks and hard yards to utter decadence and relaxation, this trip will showcase Maori culture, pristine beaches, delectable food and wine and a post card perfect view every day, all on a timetable that won't see you driving all day and all night.

Relax with a touch of adventure on this unmissable journey of North Island exploration.

For a lot of people, New Zealand is a bucket list destination and this 14-day winter itinerary will showcase why. Aotearoa is home to some wonderful areas of natural beauty and what's more, you can even ski and snow board down a lot of them! If you’re a winter sports fan, take it from us when we say this is one trip not to be missed! We have included over 60 highlights, stops and viewpoints for you to enjoy so you can pack it all in for an action-packed holiday or pick and choose what sites you visit as you set your own pace. 

Visit New Zealand's blue penguin parade at Oamaru before trying out the amazing food at Rick Steins favourite resturant in Moeraki. Gaze upon New Zealand's largest castle and the most photographed building in the Southern Hemisphere in Dunedin and the wonderous wildlife of the Otago Peninsula. Feel the spray on your face at Purakaunui falls as you head into the wild Catlins. Watch out for New Zealand’s rarest penguin, swim with tiny dolphins or just sit back, relax and soak in the true wonders of the south. This coastal route is full of scenic view points and walks around every corner including to hidden away waterfalls and beaches. This is the great ocean road – kiwi style.

Wondrous wildlife awaits you on this journey down the east coast to the bottom of the South. From little blue penguins to the massive royal albatross and ever present seals and sea lions, the iconic kiwi and our own alpine parrrot, this trip will introduce you to some of Aotearoa's feathered and furred friends. You can visit castles and heritage buildings before seeing the amazing coastline mother nature built, complete with towering waterfalls, sea caves and prehistoric beaches.

As you continue your journey, swap the coast for lakes and alps as you travel through the iconic adventure capital of New Zealand at Queenstown as you travel through the lakes district before stretching your legs at the amazing walks that Mt Cook has to offer. Your final night will be spent in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve around Mt Cook and Tekapo for some epic stargazing before this loop itinerary takes you back to Christchurch via the VERY best pie shop in New Zealand.