Begin your adventure in wonderful Queenstown, and then travel to Te Anau, a picturesque town nestled on the shores of a lake, where rugged mountains meet serene waters. Cruise through Milford Sound, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dramatic fjords, cascading waterfalls, and sheer cliffs that plunge into the sea. Then, venture into the remote wilderness of Doubtful Sound, a hidden gem accessible only by boat, where tranquility reigns amidst towering peaks and pristine wilderness. With each stop, discover the raw, unspoiled beauty of Fiordland, a testament to nature's awe-inspiring power and a journey you'll treasure for a lifetime.
South Island Self Drive
This suggested tour costs from NZD$4,065 per person (twin share, low season)
Starts in Queenstown, finishes in Queenstown
7 days/6 nights
Hotel 4 star
Rental car included
Viewed 7 times in the last 7 days
Day 1: Welcome to Queenstown
Accommodation: Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Day 2: Collect your car and head to magnificent Fiordland
Accommodation: High Leys Lodge
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 164 kms / 102 miles : 1.9 hours
Day 3: Experience cruising through wonderful Milford Sound
Accommodation: High Leys Lodge
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 233 kms / 145 miles : 3.6 hours
Day 4: Enjoy one of NZ Great Walks - Kepler Track with an experienced guide
Accommodation: High Leys Lodge
Day 5: Spend a night in the tranquility of Doubtful Sound
Accommodation: Fiordland Navigator Overnight Boat in Doubtful Sound
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 18 kms / 11 miles : 0.2 hours
Day 6: Travel back to Queenstown
Accommodation: Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 166 kms / 103 miles : 2.0 hours
Day 7: Depart Queenstown
Renowned for its adrenaline inducing activities Queenstown is synonymous with adventure. Parked on the shores of Lake Wakatipu this small alpine town is nestled below soaring vistas of The Remarkables Mountain Range. While arguably the brightest gem in New Zealand’s crown, Queenstown offers far more than an action-packed getaway. Spend time on the Gibbston wine trail and end with a meal at Michelin star chef Josh Emett’s restaurant, Rata. Take a trip down memory lane on a 100 year old steamship the TSS Earnslaw. Soak in the scenery on your walk around the lake, or venture further afield into Fiordland National Park. Head over the hill to resort town Wanaka, or re-live scenes from Lord Of The Rings by four wheel drive. But - if you really do want that rush - head out on the Shotover Jet, dive off the Nevis Bungy, freefall on the Canyon swing or Zip line the Gondola. Just be sure it's done on an empty stomach – don’t say we didn’t warn you!
On arrival you will be met by a private driver and delivered to your Queenstown accommodation.
Enjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience, a delicious gourmet BBQ buffet meal and a farm demonstration in a stunning lakeside setting. Take in the stunn...
Read moreEnjoy a quintessential Kiwi experience, a delicious gourmet BBQ buffet meal and a farm demonstration in a stunning lakeside setting. Take in the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and its surroundings as you cruise across the lake to the historic Walter Peak high country farm aboard the TSS Earnslaw Steamship. Enjoy the ambiance of the heart of the stately homestead while your Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant chef prepares a gourmet BBQ dinner. Your seasonal menu includes an extensive selection of local New Zealand produce, including succulent meats and a selection of delicious vegetables and salads. Complete your meal with your choice of delicious desserts, New Zealand cheeses, tea, and coffee. After dinner, watch the farm dogs in action with a sheep-herding demonstration and say hello to the other farm animals. Finally, cruise home under the southern stars and enjoy the fresh night air as the lights of Queenstown draw ever closer.
HideWith breathtaking views across Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu, the Skyline Complex is a must-do. Catch the fully enclosed gondola to the summit for a re...
Read moreWith breathtaking views across Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu, the Skyline Complex is a must-do. Catch the fully enclosed gondola to the summit for a remarkable panorama of the city surrounds. Wander the outdoor viewing decks then enjoy a gourmet buffet meal in the Stratosphere Restaurant.
HideYour accommodation: Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Right in the heart of the action, the Millennium Hotel is just minutes from Queenstown's central shopping and entertainment district. Outdoor activities such as bungy jumping, white water rafting and jet boating are just some of the easily accessible activities nearby in New Zealand's adventure capital.Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range. From compact economy, hatchbacks to prestige SUVs. Find out all you need to know about rental car hire in New Zealand with our helpful FAQ's
First time driving in New Zealand? Check out our hot tips for a safe and successful self drive holiday.
Following the shores of Lake Wakatipu, The Remarkables mountain range towers over you as you approach the township of Kingston. You'll venture into Southland before crossing the rolling tussock lands of Mossburn (deer capital of New Zealand) and shortly arriving at Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.
Lake Te Anau is a great place for lots of activities including walking, tramping, boating, fishing, hunting, kayaking, mountain biking, swimming and water skiing at Brod Bay. Te Anau is the closest town with facilities to Fiordland National Park, a wilderness area famed for tramping and spectacular scenery.
Kepler track: Carpark to Dock Bay and Brod Bay
From the Kepler Track carpark, the track follows the lake shore through mountain and red beech forest, with kamahi and some scattered rimu and miro and yellow-flowering kowhai.
Distance: 5.6 km return via same track. Completion Time: 1-3 hours return
Kepler Track: Carpark to Rainbow Reach
From the Kepler Track carpark, the track follows the terraces of the Waiau River along the Kepler Track through red and mountain beech forest to Rainbow Reach.
Distance: 9.5 km return via same track. Completion Time: 2.5 hours one way
Kepler Track: Rainbow Reach to Shallow Bay or Moturau Hut
From the Rainbow Reach carpark, cross the swing bridge and follow the track to the Control Gates for 200 m before turning left towards a short steep ascent. After that the track is gently undulating and wanders through mountain beech forest with some great river views. Some scenes in the Lord of the Rings movies were filmed near this part of the river.
Distance: 6 km return via same track. Completion Time: 3 - 3 hours 30 minutes return
Kepler Track (Carpark to Luxmore Hut)
Carpark to Luxmore Hut - This strenuous walk provides impressive views of Lakes Te Anau and Manapouri and Te Anau basin on one side, and the Murchison and Kepler Mountains on the other.
Distance: 13.8 km one way return via same track. Completion Time: 8-10 hours return
Visitor Centre to Upukerora River Track
This easy track leads alongside the Te Anau lakefront to where the Upukerora River flows into the lake.
Completion Time: 3 hour return
Jet boat down the Waiau river, across Lake Manapouri, to the ancient forest of the Fiordland National Park. Enjoy the thrill of jet boating down the m...
Read moreJet boat down the Waiau river, across Lake Manapouri, to the ancient forest of the Fiordland National Park. Enjoy the thrill of jet boating down the majestic trout-filled Waiau River, to the serene Lake Manapouri. Step foot into the Fiordland National Park and go for a short walk while learning about the ancient beech forest and ferns. Your jet boat ride includes a number of stops at the exact locations of the filming the "Fellowship of the Ring" on the Waiau or Anduin River, where the driver will tell you the inside story of the filming the Lord of the Rings on this river. The trip will also include some thrilling 360 degree turns and spins as well as interesting interpretation about the flora and fauna and the local European and Maori history.
HideBegin your Te Anau Glowworm experience with a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau on board the luxury catamaran, Luminosa, to the western side of the la...
Read moreBegin your Te Anau Glowworm experience with a scenic cruise across Lake Te Anau on board the luxury catamaran, Luminosa, to the western side of the lake. On arrival, you'll enter the caves through Cavern House, where informative displays detail the history of this 12,000 year old underground network.
You'll then explore by limestone pathway while your guide points out hidden whirlpools, sculpted rock formations and a rushing underground waterfall. See a magical display of thousands of glowworms as you glide through the darkness in a small boat.
Your accommodation: High Leys Lodge
Located just 4 kilometres out of Te Anau along the Milford Road, High Leys Lodge is set in 5 acres of established garden. With panoramic views of Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland National Park, High Leys Luxury Lodge offers an adult only, exclusive, peaceful & luxurious escape. There are 3 double rooms, all with private en-suite bathrooms.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 164 kms / 102 miles : 1.9 hours
The road to Milford Sound offers some of the most beautiful and iconic scenery in the country. From crystal clear lakes and towering mountains to lush glacier formed meadows, this area is dramatic and unyielding. Stretch your legs on the Chasm Walk, a short stroll through native beech forest to see several powerful waterfalls. Continue on through the Homer Tunnel, an engineering marvel at 1219 metres long. Arriving into the village of Milford,you will be greeted with an amazing view of Mitre Peak. A day cruise into the heart of the sound is not to be missed. You’ll learn about how this magnificent area was formed and experience the wonder of the falls that line the Fiord before back-tracking the way you came.
Please note: Make sure to allow 2.5hrs to Milford Sound, this takes into account the current road works on the Milford Road.
Get up close and personal with Milford Sound on a leisurely cruise of this spectacular fiord. From thundering waterfalls to sky-high mountains to lush rainforests, Milford has it all. Experience the spray of a waterfall as you cruise close to sheer rock faces. Informative, participative and relaxed, this is the perfect way to experience Milford Sound to the fullest.
Get up close and personal with Milford Sound on a leisurely cruise of this spectacular fiord abroad the M.V Sinbad, an exclusive vessel for a premium ...
Read moreGet up close and personal with Milford Sound on a leisurely cruise of this spectacular fiord abroad the M.V Sinbad, an exclusive vessel for a premium experience. From thundering waterfalls to sky-high mountains to lush rainforests, Milford has it all. Experience the spray of a waterfall as you cruise close to sheer rock faces. With a glass of bubbles on arrival and canapes provided throughout the journey, this is the perfect way to explore Milford Sound. At a capped capacity of 40 people and a roaming nature guide providing informative commentary throughout the extended cruise, this experience allows guests to enjoy the Fiord at a relaxing pace.
HideYour accommodation: High Leys Lodge
Located just 4 kilometres out of Te Anau along the Milford Road, High Leys Lodge is set in 5 acres of established garden. With panoramic views of Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland National Park, High Leys Luxury Lodge offers an adult only, exclusive, peaceful & luxurious escape. There are 3 double rooms, all with private en-suite bathrooms.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 233 kms / 145 miles : 3.6 hours
Enjoy a guided walk from Te Anau alongside the Waiau River, Lake Te Anau or Manapouri on the Kepler Track.
The track has a gentle gradient, is well maintained and suitable for all abilities. During the walk the Trips & Tramps guide details native fauna and flora, explains the unique beech forest ecological cycle and shares conservation efforts made on the Kepler Track and around Fiordland. Enjoy a classic kiwi cuppa at a scenic location and share a yarn with your local guide.
Your accommodation: High Leys Lodge
Located just 4 kilometres out of Te Anau along the Milford Road, High Leys Lodge is set in 5 acres of established garden. With panoramic views of Lake Te Anau and the Fiordland National Park, High Leys Luxury Lodge offers an adult only, exclusive, peaceful & luxurious escape. There are 3 double rooms, all with private en-suite bathrooms.Your Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise returns to Manapouri at midday.
The short drive takes you along the lakeside and across Southern farmland to Te Anau, the gateway to the Fiordland National Park. Te Anau sits on the shores of the 345 square kilometre Lake Te Anau which reaches depths of 417 metres. Te Anau Township is the starting point for many walking tracks including the Milford track and the Kepler track. The Milford road originates here and this is arguably one of the most scenic stretches of highway in New Zealand.
Take in the tranquillity of remote Doubtful Sound on this unique overnight wilderness cruise. Beginning in Manapouri with a short boat ride across the lake, you'll be taken by coach over the Wilmot Pass to Deep Cove, Doubtful Sound. Board the Fiordland Navigator, a purpose-built vessel designed like a traditional coastal trading scow. Be accommodated in a private cabin with an ensuite bathroom or a quad-share bunk room with shared bathroom facilities. The Navigator has a large spacious deck for viewing the scenery and wildlife as well as a dining saloon, bar and observation lounge. As you take in the stunning scenery of the Fiord, you'll be provided with a running commentary of the area and its history, points of interest and wildlife. You'll have the opportunity to see dolphins, fur seals and, if you're lucky rare Fiordland penguins. After anchoring in a sheltered cove, choose to explore the shoreline by kayak or stabicraft, or if you're really brave take a dip in the water. In the evening enjoy a three-course buffet dinner prepared on board and served in the dining saloon. Enjoy beer and fine wines from the licensed bar, and spend time star gazing on the upper deck. Following hearty cooked breakfast the next morning you will spend your remaining time exploring other parts of the fiord before returning to Deep Cove for the trip back to Manapouri.
Your accommodation: Fiordland Navigator Overnight Boat in Doubtful Sound
The Fiordland Navigator is purpose built for cruising in the fiords. The vessel offers spacious viewing decks, a comfortable dining saloon and observation lounge.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 18 kms / 11 miles : 0.2 hours
Crossing the rolling tussock lands you pass through Mossburn, the deer capital of New Zealand. Continue north through Southland countryside towards Lake Wakatipu. The road now hugs the lake edge and the Remarkable mountain range towers over you as you approach Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand.
Queenstown is well known for its adventure sports and activities but it also a great network of walking tracks and trails to suit all abilities and time frames. The department of conservation office located on Shotover Street can offer local advice on the conditions of walking tracks.
Some of the more popular walks are listed below.
Queenstown Hill - around 3 hours return (4 kilometres). Gravel path and then trail. A 500 metre climb through pine forest to the summit of Te Tapu-nui (mountain of intense sacredness). The climb is well rewarded with 360 degree views of Remarkables Mountain Range, the Kawarau River, Cecil Peak, and of course Lake Wakatipu. The track starts on Belfast Terrace which is just 1 km from the city centre.
Ben Lomond - around 2 hours (4 1/2 kms return). Take the Skyline Gondola ride to the terminal and the track is signposted from here. This is quite a steep climb and not recommended for children. Also take note of weather forecasts as the summit sits at 1748 metres. The effort is rewarded with spectacular views and on clear days you can see Mt Earnslaw and Mt Aspiring.
Bobs Cove - 20 minutes of easy lakeshore walks. Bobs Cove is 14 kilometres from Queenstown along the Glenorchy Road. Take the drive along the road and Bobs Cove is signposted.
The Queenstown Gardens are just a few minutes walk from central Queenstown and offer a beautiful and tranquil setting away from the hustle and bustle. The landscaped gardens include plenty of places to sit down and admire the beauty of the gardens. Pristine lawns, a large water feature, a wide variety of trees and plants, a rose garden and a couple of significant memorials all combine to provide that perfect escape from downtown Queenstown.
The gardens are a popular place to take a picnic, relax with friends and family and enjoy the views of Lake Wakatipu. The most visible tree is the Douglas Fir which provides a protective cover around the gardens and seclusion from the lively downtown area of Queenstown.
The gardens are also a popular place for enthusiasts of disc golf where 18 holes are laid out for you to complete a round of 'golf' with your disc. Metal baskets act as the holes with 'pars' offered for each hole and tees adding to the experience. Frisbees can easily be purchased from most outdoor shops in the town centre.
Your accommodation: Millennium Hotel Queenstown
Right in the heart of the action, the Millennium Hotel is just minutes from Queenstown's central shopping and entertainment district. Outdoor activities such as bungy jumping, white water rafting and jet boating are just some of the easily accessible activities nearby in New Zealand's adventure capital.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 166 kms / 103 miles : 2.0 hours
Return your rental vehicle to your designated depot before your next adventure.
Bid farewell to New Zealand, taking with you unforgettable memories of its breathtaking landscapes and incredible adventures.