Wellington-Queenstown, viaAoraki/Mt Cook

Embark on a 4-day tour to experience some of New Zealand's most spectacular scenery.

Soak up Wellington's arts and culture scene, then cross the Cook Strait to experience Marlborough's wines and waterways. Spot whales in Kaikoura, visit beautiful gardens in Christchurch and climb New Zealand's highest peak in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. End the tour in Queenstown, the capital of adventure.

Day 1: Wellington - Kaikoura

Wellington is located between the harbour and the hills, making it ideal for exploring on foot. Explore Wellington's cafés, restaurants, museums and galleries scattered around the city.

The journey from Wellington to Marlborough in the South Island is one of the most scenic ferry routes in the world. Marlborough is famous for its wine and beautiful rivers. Blenheim, the heart of the region, is the perfect place to stop for a break and a hearty lunch. From here, you'll drive down the coastline to Kaikoura. This seaside town is a great base from which to explore wildlife, such as watching whales frolic with dolphins and orcas, or hiking along the Peninsula Trail to see seal colonies on the rocks.

Day 2: Kaikoura - Christchurch via Hanmer Springs

Today, you'll take the picturesque outback road to Hanmer Springs, the perfect place to relax and indulge. Soak in the hot springs or experience a wide range of spa treatments. There are plenty of great outdoor activities to do. Continue on and through the small towns of Waipara, Amberley and Waikkuku to Christchurch. Farms, vineyards and olive groves are the characteristic landscapes of the site. Especially Waipara, a town famous for its wine, is the perfect place to take a break for lunch in between.

In Christchurch, quaint English gardens are contrasted with quirky bars and avant-garde art. Popular local activities include a punt cruise on the Avon River, a bike ride on Harbour Hill, or a trip to Akaroa for a French colonial tour.

Day 3: Christchurch - Aoraki/Mt Cook via Lake Tekapo

The Lake Tekapo Colony is located at the southern end of the lake. Fine rock particles suspended in the water give the lake a translucent blue-green color. There are many activities to choose from, such as fishing, kayaking, cycling, horseback riding, and skiing.

The road to the village of Mount Cook takes you along the shores of beautiful Lake Pukaki and through the jungle of the Highlands. Home to Australia's highest peak (Mt Cook - 3755m), Aoraki Mount Cook National Park attracts climbers, walkers and landscape enthusiasts. Heli-skiing, heli-trekking, and aerial sightseeing are all popular activities in the area. The area is also known for its vast starry night views.

Day 4: Mount Cook Village - Queenstown

Today's route will take you through Omarama along the way. The town is known for its northwest cloud arc, a thermals that carry taxiways and pilots up to 10,000 meters in the air.

Lake Dunstan is a great picnic spot from where you can explore the restored core of Cromwell. If you're interested in the old gold rush, take a detour to the town of Bannockburn.

Queenstown's alpine resorts are thrilling and captivating. From bungee jumping, jet boating and horseback riding to rafting and river surfing, make the most of your last day with a wide range of exciting adventures in Queenstown. If you're more of a laid-back lifestyle, you'll find luxury activities such as fine dining and wine, a spa or a casual round of golf.