THE SOUTHERN HIGHLIGHTS

‍Days 1-2 | Free Days

Join your ZigZag tour in the adventure capital of the South, Queenstown.

Queenstown is a vibrant alpine town nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by dramatic peaks, including the aptly named Remarkables and 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.‍

Accommodation: Camping (Queenstown)

Meals Included:

Day 1 - None

Day 2 - Breakfast, Dinner

Day 3

This morning we depart Queenstown and begin our journey towards Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. The drive is incredibly scenic from the start, as we follow the shoreline of Lake Wakatipu, winding along cliffside roads with stunning lake and mountain views. We soon reach the Devil’s Staircase, a dramatic zig-zagging section of highway that climbs steeply above the lake and offers panoramic views back across to the Remarkables and Queenstown.

From there, the road opens out as we pass through high country farmland and large commercial deer stations, with towering peaks lining the route. By early afternoon, we arrive in Te Anau, a peaceful lakeside town surrounded by spectacular natural beauty—and our base for exploring the world-renowned Fiordland region.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Te Anau)

Days 4 & 5 | Free Days

Fiordland is a breathtaking wilderness of towering mountains, deep fjords, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforest. Experiencing this natural wonderland is easy, with the glacier-carved fiords of Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound both within reach.

Known as the ‘8th Wonder of the World,’ Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural attractions. Its dramatic, waterfall-draped peaks rise sharply from the dark fiord waters, with the majestic Mitre Peak—one of the country’s most photographed landmarks—standing proudly at its heart.

Further south lies Doubtful Sound, larger and even more remote than Milford. Accessible via a scenic boat ride across Lake Manapouri, Doubtful Sound is best explored on an overnight cruise. Enjoy delicious meals, your own private cabin, and the unforgettable experience of waking to sunrise over this pristine, silent paradise.

Te Anau serves as the gateway to Fiordland and offers a wealth of sightseeing options, from cruises and helicopter flights to 4x4 adventures, guided hikes, kayaking, and scenic seaplane tours. You can even book combined tours to both Milford and Doubtful Sounds. Whichever you choose, this region is sure to become one of your most treasured Kiwi memories.

Accommodation: Camping (Te Anau)

Meals Included:

Day 4 - Breakfast

Day 5 - Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6

Leaving Te Anau, the road unfolds through lush valleys and rolling farmland as we head northeast towards Roxburgh, known as the “Fruit Bowl of the South.” Along the way, we enjoy sweeping views of the South Otago hill country and the Clutha River as it winds through the rugged landscape, with occasional stops to take in the peaceful rural scenery.

At Roxburgh, a charming historic town famous for its stone bridges and orchard heritage, we stretch our legs and soak up the small-town atmosphere before continuing our journey inland. The drive then climbs gently into Central Otago’s dry, golden hills, where the landscape shifts dramatically to a more arid, high-country feel.

Our home for the next two nights is the tiny village of Naseby, nestled in a beautiful forest. Once a bustling gold-mining hub, Naseby has retained much of its historic charm, with stone hotels, old miner’s cottages, and the wonderful Naseby Museum telling the stories of the past.

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

Day 7 | Free Day

Today is all about slowing down and enjoying the peaceful beauty of the Maniototo region. You have the option to explore this high-country landscape on foot, by bike, or at our own relaxed pace.

For those wanting to stretch their legs, you can walk or cycle a section of the Otago Central Rail Trail, New Zealand’s original and most iconic multi-day trail. The section between nearby Ranfurly and Wedderburn is a popular day option, offering big skies, rolling golden hills, and sweeping views of the distant ranges. The old railway line is wide, gently graded, and well-maintained—perfect for casual cyclists or walkers. Along the way, you’ll pass restored stations, old stone bridges, and maybe even a herd of curious sheep.

If you’d rather stay closer to base, Naseby Forest offers a beautiful network of walking and mountain biking trails through tall pine trees and historic water races from the goldmining era. The cool forest shade and peaceful atmosphere make this a refreshing contrast to the open tussock-land of the surrounding region.

Prefer a slower pace? Why not stroll through Naseby’s historic village, visit the local museum, or grab a coffee and soak up the charm of a town where time really does seem to stand still.

Tonight, we enjoy a uniquely local experience—curling. Played here since 1878, this quirky Olympic sport is best described as ‘bowling on ice.’ We’ll organise a group session at the indoor curling rink, where you’ll learn the basics and have a go - it's fun, competitive, and surprisingly addictive!

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping (Naseby)

Day 8

Today, we depart Naseby and travel further into the remote ‘Maniototo’, an elevated inland region famous for its meandering streams, granite-strewn landscapes, high rolling hill ranges, and large country stations. After a fascinating drive through this dramatic landscape dotted with large, ancient rocky outcrops and historical gold settlements, we descend from the lofty Rock and Pillar Range down onto the Taieri Plains and veer northeast towards our next destination – the city of Dunedin on the wonderful Otago Peninsula.

This afternoon, you are free to spend time exploring Dunedin, the second largest urban area in the South Island. Its rich cosmopolitan culture is enhanced by its strong Scottish heritage and a large tertiary student population that enlivens the city’s centre.

The city boasts a popular food and brewery scene, which combines with excellent museums, galleries and botanic gardens to attract visitors all year round. The University and iconic Railway Station are just some of the many beautiful buildings that have survived from Dunedin’s wealthy Edwardian and Victorian eras, when the proceeds from farming and the gold rush saw it become the country’s early ‘pseudo’ capital.

Other attractions include the central Octagon and its statue paying homage to the Scottish poet Robbie Burns, and Baldwin Street (officially, the steepest street in the world).

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Cabins (Dunedin)

Day 9 | Free Day

Today, you can spend another day exploring this interesting city, or you have the option of joining us for a complimentary day tour of the Otago Peninsula—a striking, volcanic finger of land forming the southern edge of Otago Harbour.

Known for its rugged coastline, sheltered bays, and stunning views, the peninsula is also a haven for native wildlife. Keep an eye out for fur seals and sea lions basking on the rocks, and if we’re lucky, the rare yellow-eyed penguin or the world’s smallest penguin, the little blue.

At the far tip of the peninsula lies Taiaroa Head, home to the only mainland breeding colony of Northern Royal Albatross in the world—a rare sight, and one that’s unforgettable.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Cabins (Dunedin)

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Day 10

This morning, we head north out of Dunedin and follow a quiet stretch of stunning coastal road with dramatic cliffs, sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, and peaceful seaside villages along the way. Keep your camera ready!

We continue on until we reach the famous Moeraki Boulders. These smooth, spherical stones, scattered like giant marbles across the sands of Koekohe Beach, have become one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural sights, and are a must-see photo opportunity.

Our journey then brings us to Oamaru, a harbour town renowned for its grand Victorian architecture, penguin colonies, and its title as the ‘Steampunk Capital’ of New Zealand.

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

Day 11 | Free Day

Today is yours to explore the unique charm of Oamaru, a town where Victorian elegance meets quirky creativity. Start your day with a stroll through the beautifully preserved Victorian Precinct, where cobbled streets are lined with limestone buildings housing artisan bakeries, boutique galleries, antique stores, and steampunk-themed curiosities. Step inside the fascinating Steampunk HQ—a surreal, interactive museum of retro-futuristic art—or learn more about the region's past at the North Otago Museum.

Nature lovers might want to walk or cycle a section of the scenic Alps 2 Ocean trail, which starts (or ends) right here next to our campsite, or take a short walk to the Oamaru Public Gardens, one of the oldest and loveliest in New Zealand.

In the evening, don’t miss your chance to visit the blue penguin colony—just a small stroll from our camp—where you can watch these adorable birds return from the sea after a day of fishing. For a quieter encounter, walk the headland trail and keep your eyes peeled for yellow-eyed penguins, seals, and other coastal wildlife.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping (Oamaru)

Day 12

Leaving Oamaru this morning, we set off north along the coast for an hour, before taking a quiet road inland towards the heart of the Mackenzie Basin. The drive takes us through rolling farmland and vast open skies, where the landscape gradually transforms from coastal plains to the dry, tussock-covered hills and naturally sculpted limestone outcrops and rock formations that define this unique part of the South Island.

Our first stop is the stunning Lake Tekapo, famed for its bright turquoise waters fed by glacial melt and framed by rugged mountain peaks. Here, we can stretch our legs with a visit to the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, a tiny stone chapel set against the breathtaking lake backdrop — one of New Zealand’s most photographed spots.

After soaking up Tekapo’s alpine beauty, 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 13 | Free Day

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 14

This morning, we leave the dramatic alpine landscapes of Aoraki/Mount Cook behind and begin our journey south towards Wanaka. 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.

The road then descends gradually into the stunning Upper Clutha Valley. Vast open skies stretch overhead as rolling hills give way to fertile farmland and picturesque vineyards. As we approach Wānaka, the scenery becomes truly spectacular—think shimmering lakes, rugged mountain backdrops, and expansive, glacier-carved valleys.

We settle into Wānaka for the next three nights, giving you ample time to relax and explore this vibrant alpine town and its incredible surrounds.

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

Days 15 & 16 | Free Days

Wānaka, perched on the shores of its stunning alpine lake and backed by the towering Southern Alps, is the perfect blend of natural beauty and laid-back adventure. As the gateway to Mt Aspiring National Park, this is a place where mountains, lakes, and trails converge to create an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.

If you're feeling active, tackle the short, sharp climb up Mount Iron for panoramic views over the town and lake—or for the more adventurous, test your legs (and lungs) on the challenging Roy’s Peak Track, one of New Zealand’s most iconic day hikes, offering jaw-dropping 360° views at the summit.

Prefer to keep things low-key? Wānaka offers everything from kayaking, paddleboarding and boat tours on the lake to scenic bike rides, or a wander along the peaceful lakeside trail. In town, you’ll find a charming boutique cinema, quirky local shops, excellent ice creameries, and an international food truck courtyard that sits beside a tumbling stream and historic waterwheel.

And of course, no trip to Wānaka is complete without a visit to #ThatWanakaTree—a lonely willow growing out of the lake, famous worldwide for its picturesque setting and Instagram stardom.

Whether you're chasing thrills or chilling with a coffee by the water, Wānaka is sure to win you over.

‍Accommodation: Camping (Wanaka)

Meals Included:

Day 15 - Breakfast

Day 16 - Breakfast, Dinner

Day 17

Leaving Wanaka behind, we’re immediately treated to jaw-dropping views of neighbouring Lake Hawea and the towering peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park on this, one of the most spectacular driving days of the entire journey.

As we journey over the stunning Haast Pass, we pause for a short forest walk to the enchanting Blue Pools — a deep, crystal-clear basin of vibrant turquoise water, fed by a series of similar pools that cascade down from high above. Watch for large trout swimming below, and if you’re feeling adventurous, take a refreshing dip in this alpine oasis!

Back in the van, we follow the Haast River down through remote valleys and on out to the wild West Coast. The landscape shifts constantly—from desolate black sand beaches to dense rainforest—as we enter Glacier Country, home to New Zealand’s highest peaks, longest glaciers, and wildest rivers.

Out of over 3,000 glaciers in the Southern Alps, Fox and Franz Josef are the most accessible—and are absolutely breathtaking. Fed by four alpine glaciers, Fox Glacier stretches 13km and descends nearly 2,600m toward the coast, surrounded by rugged mountains and lush rainforest.

Tonight, we stay in the village of Fox Glacier, right on the doorstep of this natural wonder.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Fox Glacier)

Day 18 | Free Day

With a free day in Fox, many visitors choose to experience the glaciers from the air by booking a helicopter flight. These scenic flights often include snow landings, giving you the unique chance to step onto the ice and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding Southern Alps from high above.

For those who prefer to explore on foot, guided glacier hikes offer an unforgettable opportunity to walk on the glacier itself, navigating ice formations, crevasses, and ice caves with expert guides. These hikes vary in length and difficulty, making them accessible to a wide range of fitness levels and experience.

And on a still clear day, nature puts on one of her finest shows at nearby Lake Matheson. The glassy waters of Lake Matheson perfectly reflect New Zealand’s highest peaks — Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman — in breathtaking clarity. The gentle loop walk around the lake is especially magical at dawn, making it a favourite for photographers and nature lovers alike.

For those who just want to relax and watch the world go by, Fox Glacier may be small, but its cosy cafés are perfect for warming up with great coffee, hearty meals, and fresh home-made baking.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (Fox Glacier)

Day 19

We continue driving north along this spectacular stretch of State Highway 6 this morning, as lush rainforest gives way to wild beaches, rugged cliffs, and rivers that tumble straight out of the Southern Alps. It’s a classic Kiwi drive — remote, dramatic, and ever-changing — with plenty of spots to pull over and soak in/photograph the scenery along the way.

Our lunch stop today is in Hokitika, a pleasant harbour town located on the mouth of the Hokitika River. Hokitika is the West Coast’s and New Zealand’s pounamu (greenstone/jade) capital.

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 20 | 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 from our campground 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 21

We set off north today along Highway 6 from Punakaiki. The road weaves it’s way between sheer rock walls, empty black sand beaches, lush rainforest, turquoise-coloured rivers, and towering promontories that jut out into the Tasman Sea. The coastline’s wild beauty eventually gives way to the mighty Buller River. Here, we turn inland and drive the length of the Lower and Upper Buller Gorge - a spectacular stretch of steep forested cliffs that rise on either side of the river’s deep valley, offering breathtaking views at every turn.

After soaking up the dramatic gorge scenery, we stop for a quick bite to eat in Murchison. We then head north through rolling hills of pine and native forest, peaceful farmland, and fruit orchards - the charming rural heart of the Nelson region.

We arrive in Kaiteriteri in the afternoon. Kaiteriteri is the gateway to the golden beaches and turquoise waters of Abel Tasman National Park. Here, we can relax on Kaiteriteri’s own beautiful golden beach, or prepare for the adventures that await in this stunning coastal paradise.

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

Day 22 | Free Day

Located at the top of the South Island, Abel Tasman National Park is a coastal paradise famous for its honey-hued 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 Kaiteriteri, 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.

And if you would rather stay in Kaiteriteri instead, we think you’ll love it’s golden beaches, scenic coastal walks, kayaking and boat tours, cafés, restaurants, and laid-back holiday vibe.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping (Kaiteriteri)

Day 23

Today, we leave the golden sands of Kaiteriteri behind and begin our journey north toward the quiet charm of Collingwood, at the top of Golden Bay.

Our first leg takes us through Motueka’s orchard country, before we begin the scenic ascent of the impressive Tākaka Hill, also known as ‘Marble Mountain’ for its rich seams of limestone and marble. At 791 metres above sea level, the summit offers breathtaking views across the Tākaka Valley, Golden Bay, and out toward the rugged ranges of Kahurangi National Park.

Near the top, we stop to explore the fascinating Ngarua Caves (entry included), an ancient limestone cave system filled with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. These caverns are also home to a rare preserved Moa skeleton, and the marble once quarried here has been used in some of New Zealand’s most iconic buildings — including the Beehive in Wellington.

After descending the hill, we roll into the colourful and creative township of Tākaka. With its lively café scene, artsy shops, and alternative vibe, this small town is full of character and a great spot to stop and explore.

Just beyond Tākaka, we visit the stunning Te Waikoropupū Springs, or Pupu Springs — one of the largest and clearest freshwater springs in the world. With a flow of over 14,000 litres per second, these sacred waters hold deep cultural and environmental significance. Boardwalks lead us through the surrounding bush to several peaceful viewing points over the springs.

From here, it’s a short and scenic drive to Collingwood, a historic village nestled at the edge of the Aorere River. With its laid-back pace, coastal beauty, and easy access to Farewell Spit and Wharariki Beach, Collingwood makes the perfect base for exploring the wild and wonderful top of the South.

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

Day 24 | 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 remote coastal enclave 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 25

Today, we say “haere ra”(‘goodbye’ in Māori) to the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park and Golden Bay and head southeast through vast pine forests, steep valleys and over bubbling rivers, before turning east and zigzagging our way along the world-famous Queen Charlotte Drive, a 35- kilometre journey that snakes its way eastwards along the breathtakingly beautiful stretch of water that gives it its name. With native forest on one side and the sparkling turquoise waters of Queen Charlotte Sound on the other, the elevated views we encounter along the Marlborough Sounds today are some of the most beautiful of our entire trip.

Once we’re checked in and set up, you have the rest of the afternoon and all of the next day to enjoy the quaint seaside town of Picton.

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

Day 26 | Free Day

Today, you can explore this picturesque port with its pretty seaside waterfront, cafes, galleries and specialty shops. Picton is home to a popular museum and aquarium, and a selection of scenic boat rides that explore the many islands and inlets of the Marlborough Sounds. It is also the base for the Queen Charlotte Track, one of New Zealand’s premier hiking experiences.

Only a short drive away is Blenheim, which sits in the heart of NZ’s largest wine region. Book one of the many wine tours that pick-up from Picton and transport their visitors through to the stunning Wairau Valley where you will be reminded why people the world over love Marlborough wine.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Camping (Picton)

Day 27

Today we cross the Cook Strait, named after James Cook, the first European explorer to sail through it.

With the Tasman Sea to the west and the South Pacific Ocean to the east, Cook Strait divides the North and South Islands of New Zealand. It is 22 kilometres wide at its narrowest point and takes roughly 4 hours to cross.

Considered one of the most beautiful ferry rides in the world, the outdoor decks allow passengers to savour the magnificent views out through the Marlborough Sounds and into Wellington Harbour. The Queen Charlotte Sound is particularly scenic and sheltered, being surrounded by steep bush covered hills.

We arrive in Wellington, New Zealand’s capital for your final nights on tour in a centrally located hotel/hostel.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hostel - shared dorm (Wellington)

Day 28 | Free Day

Today is a free day to explore Wellington at your own pace. 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 29

This morning, we say farewell. You depart your ZigZag tour - check out of the hostel no later than 10am.

Meals Included: None