THE GREAT SOUTHERN ROAD TRIP

$12,922.00

NZD

|

50 days, 49 nights

WAS

$12,922.00

NZD

NOW $

NZD

|

50 days, 49 nights

Join ZigZag’s 50-day guided camping adventure throughout the South Island—where jaw-dropping mountains, wild beaches, epic national parks, and unforgettable wildlife encounters await. From Queenstown to Kaikoura, Franz Josef to Fiordland, and Abel Tasman to Mount Cook, this is the ultimate deep-dive into New Zealand’s most iconic and remote locations.
Wellington to Christchurch
10 travellers
December 30, 2026
February 17, 2027

Overview

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? This 6-week journey takes you from the vibrant capital of Wellington in the North Island, to cosmopolitan Christchurch, exploring all of the South Island’s wild landscapes and iconic sights along the way.

Starting with a scenic ferry ride into the Marlborough Sounds, we’ll then meander our way through the north and west of the island, taking time to enjoy National Parks, native forests, crystal clear waters, golden beaches, and remote rugged coastlines along the way, before crossing the famous Arthur’s Pass, where towering peaks and stunning alpine vistas await.

As we head south, you’ll be immersed in more breathtaking Kiwi landscapes: bright blue lakes surrounded by snow-capped mountains, old mining towns brimming with history, and wild stretches of remote coast dotted with isolated lighthouses. The adventure intensifies as we visit the South Island’s premier adventure capitals - Te Anau, Queenstown, and Wanaka - where you can bungee jump, jet boat, parasail, or simply revel in the stunning scenery.

But it’s not all about thrills. We take time to unwind in Glacier Country, where you’ll witness the majestic Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, soak in alpine hot pools in Hanmer Springs, and get up close with wildlife in Dunedin, Kaikoura and Akaroa. This unforgettable journey wraps up in Christchurch, where you will depart with cherished memories of New Zealand’s raw, natural beauty and the camaraderie of your fellow travellers.

highlights

  • Stunning Beaches: Golden Bay & The Catlins
  • Abel Tasman National Park
  • 4 nights in adventure capital Queenstown
  • Te Anau – gateway to Milford Sound & Doubtful Sound
  • Marine life encounters in Kaikōura
  • Mount Cook & The Southern Alps
  • Glacier Country
  • Arthurs, Haast & Lewis Passes
  • New Zealand’s famous wine regions
  • Scenic Marlborough Sounds drive
  • Southernmost points: Bluff & Slope Point
  • French charm in historic Akaroa
  • New Zealand’s themed highways
  • And so much more!
Abel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National Park

What's included

Welcome

We’ll kick-start the tour with a welcome. It's a chance for everyone to say ‘kia ora’ (hello in Te Reo Māori) and get to know each other.

All Accommodation

Equipment Provided:
Your own 3-man canvas tent
Single stretcher bed x 1
‍(double for couples on request)Camp chair x 1
Accommodation Styles:
Mostly camping, 1 shared dorm and cabin

Meals

Breakfasts x
48
Lunches x
Dinners x
32
(inc. tea, coffee and hot chocolate)

Community

Guides x 2
Max. group size x 10

All transport

In our customised ZigZag Mercedes Sprinter van
(inc. your own seat with USB charger)

Connections

All road toll and ferry crossings

Activities & attractions included

  • Otago Peninsula Tour
  • Naseby Curling
  • Lake Matheson
  • Ngarua Caves
  • Cape Farewell & Wharariki Beach
  • Hokitika Gorge
  • French Pass
  • Cook Strait ferry
  • Omarama Clay Cliffs
  • Arrowtown
  • Oparara Basin
  • Moeraki Boulders
  • Mount Cook & The Hermitage
  • Nugget Point
  • Punakaiki Pancake Rocks
Moeraki Boulders
Moeraki Boulders

Optional Free Day Trips

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What's Not included

Flights

Visas/passport costs

airport transfers

Additional activities

Alternative Accommodation

drinks not specified

Meals not specified

Phone & internet

travel insurance

basic itinerary

50 days, 49 nights

Night
Wellington
Night
Picton
Night
Picton
Night
Cable Bay
Night
Cable Bay
Night
Collingwood
Night
Collingwood
Night
Marahau
Night
Marahau
Night
Marahau
Night
Murchison
Night
Mokihinui
Night
Mokihinui
Night
Punakaiki
Night
Punakaiki
Night
Moana
Night
Tekapo
Night
Tekapo
Night
Mount Cook
Night
Mount Cook
Night
Queenstown
Night
Queenstown
Night
Queenstown
Night
Queenstown
Night
Te Anau
Night
Te Anau
Night
Te Anau
Night
Curio Bay
Night
Curio Bay
Night
Kaka Point
Night
Kaka Point
Night
Dunedin
Night
Oamaru
Night
Oamaru
Night
Naseby
Night
Naseby
Night
Wanaka
Night
Wanaka
Night
Fox Galcier
Night
Fox Glacier
Night
Fox Glacier
Night
Hokitika
Night
Hokitika
Night
Hanmer Springs
Night
Hanmer Springs
Night
Kaikōura
Night
Kaikōura
Night
Akaroa
Night
Akaroa

Route Map

detailed itinerary

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THE GREAT SOUTHERN ROAD TRIP

50 days, 49 nights
was
$12,922.00
$12,922.00
NZD

NOW $

NZD
Wellington to Christchurch
10 travellers
December 30, 2026
February 17, 2027
*The price above is shown in New Zealand Dollar (NZD). The Tour will be charged as a flat rate + any credit card or bank transfer fees. To convert the above price to your local currency, click here!

ZigZag Tours New Zealand

Discover the ultimate New Zealand adventure! Experience every inch of this stunning country on our epic guided camping tours. With 14 unique trips running throughout the year, you’ll uncover hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes in small, friendly groups led by passionate guides. Don’t just visit New Zealand—immerse yourself in it!

* Sale prices cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount code.

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