12 Day South Island Adrenalin Junkie Tour

1 Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

Explore downtown Christchurch before heading to the striking lakes and mountains of Tekapo. The lake’s breathtaking turquoise colour and mountain backdrop is a photographer’s dream come true.

2 Lake Tekapo to Queenstown

We get to know a place like no other: Queenstown. Whether you’re an adrenalin junkie, an avid hiker, wine taster or scenery lover, Queenstown has something for absolutely everyone.

3 Queenstown

With a full day in Queenstown, let’s work on that bucket list! There are heaps of activity options to choose from

4 Queenstown to Wanaka

After the excitement of Queenstown, today is a chance to chill. Wanaka is Queenstown’s slightly quieter little sister, a mere one hour drive away. On the way we’ll stop in at charming Arrowtown, a historic gold rush village with heaps of old world character.

5 Wanaka to Franz Josef

After a relaxing morning in Wanaka, the journey to Franz is an another stunner – many of our Haka Guides rate it as their favourite drive in New Zealand.

6 Franz Josef

With Aoraki/Mount Cook (New Zealand’s highest mountain) twinkling behind the glaciers, Franz Josef is about as beautiful a setting as you can find in New Zealand. Included in your tour today is a special opportunity to carve your very own pounamu pendant at a local gallery.

7 Franz Josef to Punakaiki

Road trip up the South Island’s wild west coast, and sleep at a hidden retreat set in a peaceful rain forest.

8 Punakaiki

Hear the roars of the crashing waves on the Pancake Rocks in Punakaiki. Whether you decide to soak up the sun on the unspoilt beaches or stroll through the rainforest to a chorus of birdsong, you’ll shed your cares in this magical place.

9 Punakaiki to Abel Tasman

Cruising up north from Punakaiki, the scenery gets better and better. The powerful, untouched coastline gives way to rivers and gorges before we drive over the hills and down towards the bayside town of Nelson.

10 Abel Tasman

Prepare to fall in love with Abel Tasman National Park. Abel Tasman you beauty. Lush forests, golden sandy beaches, sheltered bays, and jaw-dropping views not to mention the local seals, dolphins and bird life. 

11 Abel Tasman to Wellington

Today you’ll start things off by learning to paddle a traditional waka (a Māori war canoe). Experience a karakia (blessing for protection) and learn tikanga (waka etiquette) all while getting out on the water to enjoy this unique included activity.

Our road trip continues along the northern edge of the South Island this afternoon. We’ll stop for tasting at a local winery, and there's a chance to taste some famous New Zealand mussels in Havelock as we wind our way towards Picton to catch the evening ferry to Wellington.

12 Wellington

Wake up in the world's coolest capital city.