9 Day Self Drive New Zealand's Wine Highway
Whether it's glaciers, wine, scenic landscapes or a combination of all three, we have packaged up the best of New Zealand's South Island into three self-drive itineraries. Beginning in Christchurch, each Highway promises to highlight the best of the South Island. Savour some of New Zealand's best wines from some of the countries most prestigious vineyards with The Wine Highway.
- 9 Day Car Hire in a Toyota Corolla Hybrid or similar
- 8 Nights Accommodation staying in Christchurch, Kaikoura, Marlborough, Nelson and Greymouth
- Hapuku Kitchen Half Day Cooking Class & Lunch
- All Day Wine Tour ex Blenheim
- Nelson Region Wine & Art Tour
Your fare excludes:
- Travel Insurance & airfares
Day 1: Arrive Christchurch
Welcome to Christchurch! After collecting your luggage, pick up your rental car and make your way to your accommodation where you’ll spend the evening. Spend the rest of the day exploring the ‘Garden City’ at your leisure.
Day 2: Christchurch – Kaikoura
Start your day in the charming city of Christchurch, where you’ll have the morning free to explore its vibrant streets, lush gardens, and unique blend of historic and modern architecture. Take time to visit some of Christchurch’s iconic spots or simply relax before your journey. Late in the morning, set off on a scenic drive to Kaikoura, famous for its coastal beauty and wildlife. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and unwind. The afternoon and evening are at your leisure - stroll along the coastline, enjoy fresh local seafood, or simply relax and take in the peaceful surroundings.
Day 3: Kaikoura – Hapuku Cooking Class – Blenheim (Marlborough)
Wake up in the picturesque town of Kaikoura and prepare for a delightful morning at Hapuku Kitchen, where you'll enjoy a half-day cooking class. Learn to create delicious dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, guided by expert chefs in a beautiful setting. After savoring your creations, embark on a scenic drive to Blenheim, nestled in the heart of Marlborough wine country. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and take some time to relax. The evening is yours to unwind or explore the town's charming surroundings at your own pace.
Day 4: Marlborough All Day Wine Tour
Begin your day in Blenheim, ready to experience the renowned Marlborough wine region. After breakfast, embark on the Beyond the Vines All Day Wine Tour with Marlborough Wine Tours, where you'll visit a selection of award-winning wineries, meet passionate local winemakers, and enjoy tastings of the region’s finest wines. With picturesque vineyard views and insights into the winemaking process, this immersive tour offers a true taste of Marlborough. After a day filled with delightful flavours, return to your accommodation to relax and reflect on the day’s experiences.
Day 5: Blenheim – Nelson
Begin your day with the choice to explore Blenheim’s charming town centre, with its boutique shops and peaceful riverside spots, or set off early for a scenic drive to Nelson with time to enjoy the journey. If you choose the extended route, there are some wonderful free stops along the way: visit the picturesque Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve for a forest walk and river views, or pause in Havelock, the 'Greenshell Mussel Capital' for a glimpse of the harbour. As you continue, marvel at the rolling vineyards and native bush landscapes. Arrive in Nelson and check into your accommodation, then relax or take in the vibrant local arts and café scene at your own pace.
Day 6: Nelson Wine & Art Tour
Enjoying the best of both worlds in a scenic paradise. Discovering the unique Nelson lifestyle and exploring Nelsons diverse aromatics and Pinot Noirs. Enjoy an introduction to local foods and wine matching. Just as the beautiful surrounding mountains set a magnificent backdrop that shelter the foothills and plains to the sea, the calming ambience has inspired almost 400 artists to settle here to be followed by winemakers who alongside market gardeners and orchardists are producing world class products. There is no better way to explore and discover the quintessential Nelson lifestyle as this journey takes you to meet artists and into galleries exhibiting art forms of all persuasions. Winemakers share their world class wine as the host prepares matching food and lunch and refreshments showcase the huge variety of produce from this food bowl in the sunniest part of New Zealand. This is the secret lifestyle that attracts so many to live in Nelson and enjoy its special vibrancy.
Day 7: Nelson – Greymouth
Today, set off from Nelson and embark on a scenic drive to Greymouth, a journey filled with stunning landscapes and optional stops to enhance your experience. You might begin with a visit to the picturesque Spooners Tunnel, New Zealand’s longest decommissioned rail tunnel, perfect for a short walk. Further along, stop by the tranquil lakes of the Nelson Lakes National Park, where you can take in the pristine waters andmountain vistas. For more coastal scenery, pause at Punakaiki to marvel at the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes—a must-see on the West Coast. Arrive in Greymouth, check into your accommodation, and relax after a day of adventure.
Day 8: Greymouth – Christchurch
Today, journey from Greymouth to Christchurch, traveling along one of New Zealand's most scenic routes. Begin with a stop at the historic Brunner Mine Site, where you can explore the fascinating remains of one of New Zealand's earliest coal mining sites. Continue through the breathtaking landscapes of Arthur's Pass National Park, where you can stretch your legs on a short nature walk, possibly spotting the cheeky kea parrots. As you descend from the mountains, take in the stunning alpine views and winding rivers that define this iconic route. Arrive in Christchurch, check into your accommodation, and unwind after a day of unforgettable scenery.
Day 9: Depart Christchurch
You have reached the final day of your incredible Wine Highway Adventure. This morning you will check out of your hotel before returning your hire car at the airport.
- Travel Dates: 1 Oct 2024 - 15 Dec 2025
- Twin share from $2,565 per person
- Travel Dates: 16 Dec 2024 - 6 Feb 2025 & 10 Feb - 2026
- Twin share from $2,779 per person
Please note: surcharges may apply over special event periods and school holidays. Prices are subject to availability at time of booking and may change without notice.
A selection of hand-picked 3.5 and 4-star hotels throughout.
Travel at 60 and supplier booking conditions apply.
Package price is based on twin share and is priced in Australian Dollars. Pricing is correct at the time of submission but is subject to change without notice. Valid for travel from 1 Apr 24 – 31 Mar 25. Flights are not included. Blackout periods apply from 07-09 Feb 2025. Surcharges may apply over special event periods and over school holidays. Car hire with Ezi Car & price is based on an EXCLUSIVE rate so subject to an excess, airport fees & a one way fee of NZ$150 which is payable direct on vehicle collection. Pick up/drop off Christchurch. Ask your consultant for more details. Inclusions are subject to change based on supplier operational capabilities.