| The best way to see New Zealand is NOT to rush through both islands, but to enjoy each region and explore the varied countryside and activities which New Zealand has to offer.
If your holiday will be 7-10 days, concentrate on one or two major regions and enjoy the Real New Zealand. If you are planning a short break, concentrate on one of the four major gateway cities. There are numerous "D-Tours" available, whether you just want to relax or be as energetic as possible. If your holidays extend beyond two weeks, then by all means explore all of New Zealand. Whether you are a first time visitor or an experienced Kiwi watcher, New Zealand has something special for you. New Zealand Travel can tailor-make a driving itinerary for any person, whether it is a short break to Auckland/Christchurch/Wellington or an extended three week grand tour. Drive around New Zealand either by rental car or campervan/motorhome. If you drive by car, there are numerous types of accommodation. New Zealand Travel specialises in packaging the best combination of transport and accommodation, whether you are a budget conscious, standard traveller, or looking for that special place for a luxury weekend (or even a "splurge"). Driving is easy around New Zealand. The local drivers are polite and helpful on directions; the roads are modern (but no super highways - thank goodness), and well sign posted. The distances can be deceiving, as you will want to take it easy on the road to be able to enjoy the many spectacular sights along the way. Always plan an extra day in your itinerary. |
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South Island Itineraries Check out our 10-14 Day self-drive itinerary. This is our most popular itinerary, perfect for first time visitors as well as returning travellers. For all 10 Day+ itineraries emailed and then booked through New Zealand Travel, receive a free Tranz Alpine train ride [in either direction] for 1 person.
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North Island Itineraries Check out our 10-14 Day self-drive itinerary. This is our most popular North Island itinerary, perfect for first time visitors as well as returning travellers. For all 10 Day+ itineraries emailed and then booked through New Zealand Travel, receive a free Te Puia Te Ra Day Pass in Rotorua for 1 person.
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City Breaks Doubtful Sound is a place of towering peaks and bush-clad islands, of twisting, hidden arms and sheltered coves. In Maori legend, Tu Te Raki Whanoa created this fiord not alone, but with the assistance of four young sea gods who carved out its sheltered arms. You can feel the power of nature here - the wildness, the remoteness, the peace. Begin with a cruise across the crystal clear waters of Lake Manapouri. Then travel by coach over the Wilmot Pass, stopping along the way to view some of Fiordland's most dense rainforest and to overlook Doubtful Sound far below. On reaching Deep Cove, board the Patea Explorer catamaran for a 3hr cruise, taking in the most stunning scenery. Bottlenose dolphins are frequently seen and at times rare penguins. The tour ends with a visit to the Manapouri Underground Power Station (when accessible), and a recrossing of Lake Manapouri to your starting point.
OR .. travel to the 'sister' Sound at Milford (perhaps more well-known). |
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Campervans / Motorhomes Motorhomes can be a great way to travel around New Zealand. Motorhomes offer the maximum flexibility in itinerary planning. In the peak tourist months, you can 'go as you please' without fear of 'no vacancy'. In the off-peak months, motorhomes can be the most economical way to travel, particularly with families.
All motorhome companies offer 2, 4, 6 Berth Motorhomes in various ages and configurations, inclusions. New Zealand Travel offers the best deals for all vehicle types - email us and find out. |
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Trains / Ferries There are 3 main train services in New Zealand - Northern Explorer, Coastal Pacific, TranzAlpine. Along with the Interislander Ferry, they comprise the Great Journeys of New Zealand. These services (individually or collectively) can be combined with either self-drive or coach tours to add a unique perspective to your New Zealand itinerary.
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Coach Transport If you don't want to drive around New Zealand, there are plenty of alternative options. The InterCity Network (including Great Sights) offers city to city coach service throughout New Zealand. In most cases, the service is daily but can also offer multiple services between major cities (like Auckland - Rotorua). The Great Sights Network usually includes tourist stops and activities (add Waitomo Caves to the Auckland-Rotorua service)
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