THE SOUTHERN EXPLORER

Day 1 | Free Day

Start your ZigZag adventure in our cosmopolitan capital. We hope you enjoy exploring it from your cool wee hostel nestled in the heart of Wellington city.

Nestled around a deep working harbour and framed by steep, green hills, Wellington is a compact and walkable city known for its vibrant mix of culture, history, nature, and cuisine. It's also a hub for coffee lovers and craft beer enthusiasts, with countless cafés and breweries dotted throughout the city.

Wellington’s cultural heart beats strongly through its many museums, art galleries, theatres, and year-round festivals. Don’t miss Te Papa Tongarewa, New Zealand’s national museum, located right on the waterfront—renowned globally for its engaging and interactive exhibits.

Nicknamed the ‘Windy City’ thanks to the breezes that funnel through Cook Strait, Wellington still offers an array of beautiful outdoor experiences. Enjoy coastal walks, forested trails, sandy beaches, and waterfront promenades, or ride the historic red cable car up to the Botanic Gardens. For nature lovers, Zealandia, an urban eco-sanctuary just minutes from the city centre, offers the chance to see native birdlife in a truly unique setting.

Meals Included: None
Accommodation: Hostel - shared dorm (Wellington)

‍Day 2

This morning, we board the ferry to cross the Cook Strait, named after Captain James Cook, the first European to navigate this stretch of water. Separating New Zealand’s North and South Islands, the strait is just 22 kilometres wide at its narrowest point, and the journey takes approximately four hours.

Often described as one of the most beautiful ferry journeys in the world, the crossing begins in Wellington Harbour and ends in the stunning Marlborough Sounds, offering breathtaking views throughout. As we sail into the tranquil Queen Charlotte Sound, surrounded by steep, forested hills and sheltered coves, you’ll want your camera ready.

We arrive in the picturesque port town of Picton, where we’ll be based for the next two nights.

Meals Included: Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Picton)

Day 3 | Free Day

Today is yours to explore the charming seaside town of Picton, set against the stunning backdrop of the Marlborough Sounds. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront, browse boutique shops and local galleries, or relax at one of the many cafés overlooking the harbour.

Picton is home to several unique attractions, including the fascinating Edwin Fox Maritime Museum, a small but popular aquarium, and a variety of scenic boat cruises that explore the bays, islands, and inlets of the Sounds. It’s also the starting point for the Queen Charlotte Track, one of New Zealand’s top-rated hiking trails—ideal for those keen to stretch their legs and take in some of the country’s most beautiful coastal scenery.

Just a short drive from Picton lies Blenheim, the heart of New Zealand’s largest wine region. Consider joining a guided wine tour that departs directly from Picton and takes you into the stunning Wairau Valley, where you can sample world-famous Marlborough wines and learn more about what makes this region a global favourite among wine lovers.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping (Picton)

Day 4

This morning, we set off along the world-renowned Queen Charlotte Drive, a winding 35-kilometre route that stretches from Picton to Havelock, hugging the edge of the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound. With lush native forest on one side and the shimmering turquoise waters of the Marlborough Sounds on the other, this scenic drive offers some of the most breathtaking views of the entire trip. Expect plenty of photo stops as we navigate the twists and turns of this unforgettable coastal journey.

Our destination is Cable Bay, a peaceful and secluded spot nestled among rolling farmland and native bush in the eastern Tasman region. Often overlooked by the typical tourist trail, Cable Bay is a true hidden gem—and the perfect place to unwind. We’ll be staying here for two nights, with plenty of time to enjoy the area’s natural beauty and relaxed pace.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Cable Bay)

Day 5 | Free Day

(optional day trip to French Pass)

Today is a free day to relax and soak up the serenity of Cable Bay. Take a peaceful coastal walk, enjoy the stunning views, and reconnect with nature in this tranquil corner of the Tasman region. For those looking for a bit more action, nearby Cable Bay Adventure Park offers an adrenaline fix with quad biking, mountain biking, and one of the world’s longest flying foxes soaring high above the forest canopy.

Alternatively, join us for an optional day trip to French Pass, one of New Zealand’s most remote and dramatic coastal drives. This steep winding gravel road isn’t for the faint-hearted, but those who venture along it are rewarded with jaw-dropping views over the Marlborough Sounds, with countless bays, inlets, and ridgelines stretching as far as the eye can see.

At the end of the road lies French Pass, a narrow channel of turbulent water separating the mainland from D’Urville Island. Known for its incredibly strong tidal currents, the pass often forms whirlpools and horizontal waterfalls—an impressive natural spectacle, especially at peak tide. Nearby, the tiny settlement of French Pass is the perfect lunch stop. It features a long jetty that stretches out into the bay – the perfect spot to watch eagle rays gliding through the clear shallows below.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Cable Bay)

Day 6

This morning, we say farewell to the Marlborough region and head into the breathtaking Tasman district, home to the world-renowned Abel Tasman National Park. Our journey takes us through the vibrant port town of Nelson, known for its creative arts scene, sunny climate, and laid-back charm. From there, we continue through the orchard-laden plains of Motueka and climb the winding Tākaka Hill, offering dramatic views over valleys, forests, and coastline.

As we descend into Golden Bay, we reach the peaceful coastal village of Collingwood, our base for the next two nights. Nestled between wild beaches and lush native bush, Collingwood is the ideal gateway to some of the South Island’s most remote and spectacular natural attractions—including Farewell Spit and Wharariki Beach (many of our passenger’s favourite New Zealand beach experience).

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Collingwood)

Day 7 | Free Day

Once a bustling gold rush town in the 1800s, Collingwood is now best known for its peaceful charm and access to some of New Zealand’s most remarkable natural wonders, including Kahurangi National Park and the internationally significant Farewell Spit Nature Reserve.

Stretching 35 km into the sea, Farewell Spit is a protected bird sanctuary and wetland of global importance. While public access is limited to the first 4 km, a government-approved tour company based in Collingwood is permitted to venture further. Their scenic and informative trip includes Cape Farewell (the northernmost point of the South Island), Fossil Point, and the historic spit lighthouse.

Whether or not you take the optional Spit tour, we time our day around the tides so that everyone can join us for a visit to Wharariki Beach—a stunning and remote spot with towering dunes, sea caves, rock pools, and dramatic offshore archways. It's a favourite for photographers and one of the true hidden gems of the South Island.

Back in town, Collingwood’s small-town appeal is enhanced by its reputation for delicious seafood—perfect for a relaxed dinner of fresh fish & chips or local scallops. You might also choose to hire a bike to explore the Aorere Valley, paddle a kayak in the Ruataniwha Inlet, or simply enjoy the local galleries, museum, and cafés lining the main street.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping (Collingwood)

Day 8

Today, we depart the peaceful village of Collingwood and begin our journey south, making our way toward Marahau, the gateway to the breathtaking Abel Tasman National Park.

Our first stop is the incredible Te Waikoropupū Springs—affectionately known as Pupu Springs. These crystal-clear pools discharge over 14,000 litres of water per second, making them the largest freshwater springs in New Zealand and the largest cold-water springs in the Southern Hemisphere. Once considered the second clearest water source in the world (now third, behind another Kiwi contender—Blue Lake), the springs are a place of cultural and environmental significance, and short boardwalks guide visitors to several viewing platforms.

Continuing on, we travel through the vibrant and quirky township of Tākaka, filled with colourful shops, cafés, and a strong artistic vibe that reflects the area’s alternative lifestyle culture.

Then it’s time to ascend the mighty Tākaka Hill, affectionately nicknamed Marble Mountain due to its rich seams of limestone and marble. At 791 metres above sea level, the hill offers jaw-dropping panoramic views across Golden Bay, the Tākaka Valley, and distant peaks of the Kahurangi National Park.

Near the summit, we take a fascinating underground detour into the Ngarua Caves (entry included). These ancient limestone caverns feature awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites, and house a preserved Moa skeleton, one of New Zealand’s now-extinct flightless birds. The caves are also notable for supplying marble used in some of New Zealand’s most iconic buildings, including Wellington’s Parliament Buildings and the Beehive. Fans of The Lord of the Rings may also recognise the location, as scenes were filmed within the cave system.

Descending the other side of the hill, we travel through Motueka’s orchard country before arriving in Marahau, our home for the next few nights. Nestled on the edge of Abel Tasman National Park, this relaxed coastal village is the perfect base for exploring golden beaches, forested tracks, and marine adventures in one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural playgrounds.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Marahau)

Day 9 & 10 | Free Days

Located at the top of the South Island, Abel Tasman National Park is a coastal paradise famous for its golden beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush native bush. Often likened to a tropical island escape, this extraordinary wilderness blends natural beauty with accessibility, making it one of New Zealand’s most beloved national parks.

The star attraction is the Abel Tasman Coast Track, a world-renowned walking trail stretching 60 kilometres along the shoreline. The well-maintained path winds past hidden coves, dramatic headlands, and ancient native forest, with panoramic views at every turn. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, this track offers flexible options to suit all fitness levels and timeframes.

Most visitors explore the park by combining walking with one of the many water taxis that shuttle between Marahau and the park’s remote bays. A typical day might involve catching a boat to a bay deep inside the park, walking one or two scenic sections of the track, and then hopping back on a water taxi in the afternoon. Kayaking is another popular option—glide past seals, paddle into sea caves, or stop for lunch on your own private beach.

For those who’d rather take it easy, scenic cruises offer a relaxing way to soak in the coastline, while flightseeing or skydiving (book in advance!) provide a once-in-a-lifetime aerial view of this stunning coastal landscape. And of course, if you simply want to unwind, there are countless safe, swimmable beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or a picnic in paradise.

Abel Tasman is more than a national park—it’s a place to reconnect with nature, find adventure, or just sit back and enjoy the view.

Day 9

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping (Marahau)

Day 10

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Marahau)

Day 11

Today we leave the coast behind and wind our way through quiet back-country roads alongside the Motueka River and past the orchards of Tapawera, before joining the highway west.

Our main stop is the spectacular Lake Rotoiti, tucked inside the rugged beauty of Nelson Lakes National Park. Framed by forested mountains, this alpine lake is famous for its jaw-dropping scenery, dramatic hiking trails, and incredibly clear waters teeming with brown trout, native longfin eels, and elegant black swans.

From here, it’s a short drive to Murchison, where we settle in for the night surrounded by rivers, forests, and mountain views.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Murchison)

Day 12

Today we ‘tackle’ the Buller Gorge, an incredibly scenic drive following the Buller River as it winds between Murchison and the Tasman Sea on the West Coast of the South Island. We journey through the breathtaking ‘Upper’ and ‘Lower’ sections of the gorge, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush native forest.

After leaving the gorge, we turn off at Westport and follow Highway 67 north—a narrow ribbon of road squeezed between wild, black sand beaches on one side and the rugged, forested mountains of Kahurangi National Park on the other.

Our day ends in the tiny coastal enclave of Mokihinui, where we set up camp for two nights, immersed in nature’s raw beauty.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Mokihinui)

Day 13 | Free Day

(Optional day trip to the Oparara Basin)

Enjoy a relaxing day at the lush, unspoilt Gentle Annie’s campsite, nestled among Nikau-fringed native bush at the mouth of the Mokihinui River. Or join us on an unforgettable optional day trip north into the heart of Kahurangi National Park to explore the spectacular Oparara Basin.

This remarkable area is home to a stunning network of ancient limestone caves, arches, and formations carved over a million years by the gentle flow of the Oparara River.

After a quick stop in Karamea, we drive to the trailhead and walk through an enchanted rainforest of towering beech and podocarp trees, thickly carpeted with mosses and ferns. The fairy-tale atmosphere intensifies as you enter the massive limestone arches.

The Oparara Arch is the largest natural limestone arch in the Southern Hemisphere. Soaring 43m high, 79m wide, and 219m long, it is beautifully illuminated and mirrored in the dark, whiskey-coloured waters below. Nearby, the smaller but equally photogenic Moria Gate Arch stands 19m tall and can be explored via a unique entrance through a hole in the forest floor, allowing a stroll along the riverbank beneath its impressive span.

A well-maintained loop track from Moria Gate winds through the forest, past the serene Mirror Lake tarn, and back to the car park—where cheeky Weka birds often make an appearance.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Mokihinui)

Day 14

We head back to Westport this morning for a quick pit stop before continuing to nearby Cape Foulwind, named by Captain James Cook after his ship was blown off course here in 1770. If you like, stretch your legs with a walk along the spectacular 3.4km coastal walkway, offering panoramic views of rugged mountains, cliffs, a seal colony, and the wild seashore. We’ll pick you up at the far end.

Back in the van, we follow the craggy coastline southward, winding along the West Coast. On your right, endless black sand beaches, headlands, and bays stretch into the distance; on your left, deep gorges, towering cliffs, and the dense rainforest of Paparoa National Park unfold.

We finish the afternoon at our picturesque campsite in Punakaiki—make sure to catch the sunset here, it’s truly spellbinding!

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Punakaiki)

Day 15 | Free Day

Take the opportunity on your free day today to explore the extraordinary Punakaiki Rocks—better known as the Pancake Rocks—and the stunning surroundings. These geological wonders have been shaped over 30 million years by erosion, creating layers of hard and soft limestone that resemble giant stacks of pancakes—hence the name. The same forces have carved out caves and channels, where on wild days, the sea crashes in and shoots water high through natural blowholes. This breathtaking spectacle is easily accessible via well-maintained boardwalks and paths.

Other must-dos in Punakaiki include walking, paddleboarding, or kayaking the Pororari River Loop in Paparoa National Park, exploring the small Punakaiki Cavern, admiring the coastal views along the Truman Track, or simply soaking in a memorable sunset on the beach right at camp.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Punakaiki)

Day 16

Today we journey down the rugged coastline south of Punakaiki to the Grey River, before following a tranquil inland route to Brunner. Winding through lush rainforest and rolling farmland, the drive offers a peaceful contrast to the wild West Coast beaches.

At Moana, nestled on the shores of the pristine Lake Brunner, we’ll be greeted by stunning alpine reflections and calm waters—this quiet lakeside village is our peaceful base tonight.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping (Moana)

Day 17

This morning, we say “Haere ra” to Moana and head east through the dramatic landscapes of Arthur’s Pass National Park. Nestled amongst the central Southern Alps, Arthur’s Pass is the highest and most rugged of the three alpine passes that cross the South Island. Towering peaks, steep gorges, vast scree slopes, and braided rivers dominate the landscape, dwarfing the winding Highway 73 and making this route a dream for photographers. Don’t worry—we’ll make plenty of scenic stops along the way to take it all in.

After crossing the pass, we descend into Canterbury and join the Inland Scenic Route, soon arriving at the stunning Rakaia Gorge. On a sunny day, the glacial-fed waters of the Rakaia River glow a surreal milky turquoise, offering yet another photo-worthy moment.

From here, we travel south through rolling farmland before joining the Geraldine–Fairlie Highway and re-entering the mountains on our approach to Lake Tekapo. This iconic alpine town, set on the shores of its namesake lake, sits in the heart of the Mackenzie Country and is famous for its vividly turquoise waters, framed by the Southern Alps.

Tekapo is a hub for both summer and winter adventure, home to a beautiful new hot pool complex right beside our campground, and lies within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve—the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, and one of only eight such reserves in the world. On a clear night, the stargazing here is simply unforgettable.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Tekapo)

Day 18 | Free Day

Today is yours to enjoy the stunning beauty of Lake Tekapo, with its vivid turquoise waters and alpine backdrop. Relax in the soothing Tekapo Springs Hot Pools, stroll along the lakefront to the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, or simply unwind at one of the village cafés with a coffee and a view.

For the more adventurous, there are scenic flights, bike rides, or horse treks on offer—and when night falls, don’t miss the chance to experience the region’s world-renowned Dark Sky Reserve, home to some of the clearest stargazing in the Southern Hemisphere.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping (Tekapo)

Day 19

Today we take a short but spectacular drive around the striking turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki as we head toward Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain. As we follow the shoreline, the road opens up to reveal unforgettable alpine scenery, with snow-capped peaks rising dramatically ahead of us and the lake’s glacial blue water stretching out beside us.

Be sure to have your camera ready—this drive offers some of the most iconic photo stops in the country. The closer we get to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, the more immersive the landscape becomes, with towering mountains, braided rivers, and wide-open skies creating a truly cinematic experience.

Our destination is Glentanner, located just outside the national park boundary, where we’ll settle in for two nights with incredible views of the mountains all around.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Glentanner)

Day 20 | Free Day

(Optional transfer to the Hermitage, Mt Cook Village)

Welcome to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a dramatic alpine wilderness of ice, rock, and towering peaks. Home to 19 mountains over 3,000 metres—including Aoraki/Mount Cook itself, New Zealand’s tallest at 3,724 metres—this is a place where nature takes centre stage.

There are countless ways to explore the area. Choose from a variety of well-maintained walking tracks that lead to breathtaking viewpoints of glaciers, rivers, and alpine lakes, including the renowned Hooker Valley track.

For something truly memorable, take a scenic flight over the Southern Alps, cruise among real icebergs on the Tasman Glacier Lake, or visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, which includes a museum, planetarium, and cinema.

Or simply relax at The Hermitage in Mount Cook Village, enjoy a coffee, and soak in the majestic scenery that surrounds you. Whether you’re after adventure or tranquillity, this is a day you won’t forget.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Glentanner)

Day 21

This morning, we leave the dramatic alpine landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook behind and begin our journey south towards Queenstown. Along the way, we make a stop at the striking Clay Cliffs near Omarama—a dramatic series of sharp pinnacles and deep ravines made of gravel, silt, and clay. Formed over millions of years by ancient glacial rivers and uplifted by tectonic forces, these towering formations offer a short walk and fantastic photo opportunities in a surreal, otherworldly setting.

From Omarama, we head into the heart of Central Otago via the spectacular Lindis Pass, where the road winds through a vast, open landscape of golden tussock-covered hills. As we climb to the pass's summit, expansive alpine views unfold around us—this is one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives, and we'll make sure to pause for a few photos along the way.

We then travel around Lake Dunstan and through the dramatic Kawarau Gorge, before making a stop in Arrowtown, a historic gold mining settlement. Nestled by the Arrow River, this picturesque and character-filled village has retained much of its original ‘gold rush’ architecture, and the pretty colonnade of old shops and buildings in its centre resemble those from an old ‘wild west’ film.

Just off the main street are a series of quaint old miners' cottages that lead to the ‘Chinese village’ – a separate area that was allocated to the Chinese gold miners who came to Arrowtown to seek their fortunes. Steeped in history, this open-air museum provides a glimpse into the tough and often unrewarded lives that these courageous early miners led.

Late in the afternoon, we arrive in Queenstown, perched on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and framed by the dramatic peaks of The Remarkables. We’ll spend the next two nights here, with plenty of time to explore everything this vibrant adventure hub has to offer.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Queenstown)

Day 22 | Free Day

Welcome to Queenstown, a vibrant alpine town nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by dramatic peaks, including the aptly named Remarkables. Often dubbed the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown offers something for everyone—whether you’re chasing thrills, seeking relaxation, or simply want to soak in the scenery.

For the adrenaline seekers, Queenstown is your playground. Take the leap at the world’s first commercial bungy jump, experience high-speed spins on a jet boat, go white water rafting or try riverboarding, soar above the mountains on a skydive, or fly through the treetops on a zipline. For something truly unique, don’t miss the wild ride in a semi-submersible “shark” boat, or head off-road with a 4WD adventure into the backcountry.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, there’s just as much to enjoy. Ride the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak for panoramic views, then perhaps take a paraglide back down. Cruise across the lake aboard the iconic TSS Earnslaw, a 100-year-old coal-fired steamship, or explore Queenstown’s beautiful botanic gardens and waterfront walkways. Nearby Central Otago is one of New Zealand’s top wine regions—join a wine tour and sample world-class pinot noir while taking in stunning vineyard views.

Film buffs can take a day trip to Glenorchy, a picturesque village at the head of Lake Wakatipu and the gateway to many famous Lord of the Rings filming locations. The drive itself is worth it—often called one of the most scenic in the world.

With two days to explore, you could also hire a bike, go fishing, enjoy the local restaurants and cafés, or take a drive up to Deer Park Heights for some of the best views in town (and perhaps spot a few friendly Highland cattle and alpacas).

However you choose to spend your time, Queenstown never disappoints—whether you're ticking off your bucket list or simply enjoying the atmosphere in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful destinations.

‍Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Queenstown)

Day 23

Depart Tour

Meals Included: Breakfast