Discover New Zealand: A Two-Week Adventure Itinerary
Planning your New Zealand adventure is thrilling, but with so much to see and limited time, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. At Scotties Car Rentals, we’re here to help! We’ve put together an easy-to-follow, two-week itinerary to guide you through the country’s top destinations—perfect for a Kiwi road trip.
If you have extra time, you can easily extend this itinerary to fit even more into your journey. Start in either Auckland or Christchurch, pick up your Scotties rental car, and get ready to experience the best of New Zealand.
Suggested Itinerary: Christchurch to Auckland (or Reverse)
Day 1: Arrive in Christchurch
Pick up your Scotties rental car from our Christchurch Airport depot. Just give us a call toll-free at 0800 736 825 when you land, and we’ll pick you up! Spend a relaxing day exploring Christchurch, New Zealand’s vibrant "Garden City."
Day 2: Drive to Dunedin
Travel to Dunedin, passing through Timaru, Ashburton, Oamaru, and other charming towns. Dunedin’s rich Scottish heritage and beautiful architecture make it an unmissable stop.
Day 3: Explore Dunedin
Spend a day taking in the sights:
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First Church
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The Octagon
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Dunedin Cathedral
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Botanical Gardens
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University of Otago
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A scenic drive along the Otago Peninsula to visit the Albatross Colony
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Larnach Castle
Finish the day exploring Dunedin’s lively nightlife.
Day 4: Dunedin to Te Anau
Head toward Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park, and take in the stunning landscapes along the way.
Day 5: Explore Milford Sound
Drive to Milford Sound and experience its breathtaking beauty on a cruise. Return to Queenstown for the night.
Day 6: Discover Queenstown
Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand! Try bungy jumping, jet boating, or skiing (in winter), or enjoy vineyard tours, scenic hikes, and fantastic food. Stop by Scotties Queenstown for more local tips.
Day 7: Queenstown to Christchurch
Take the scenic route through Kawarau Gorge, with views of the Southern Alps, Mount Cook, and Lake Tekapo. This drive is world-renowned for its beauty.
Day 8: Christchurch to Kaikoura
Follow the coast to Kaikoura, famous for whale watching, dolphin swims, and seafood. Enjoy fresh New Zealand crayfish at a seaside restaurant.
Day 9: Take the Ferry to Wellington
Scotties recommends taking your rental car on the ferry to Wellington. This scenic journey through the Queen Charlotte Sound is a must-do. Contact us for discounts on ferry crossings.
Day 10: Wellington to Rotorua via Tongariro National Park
Drive north through Tongariro National Park, with views of active volcanoes and beautiful Lake Taupo. Stop to see Huka Falls and relax in Rotorua’s geothermal spas.
Day 11: Explore Rotorua
Rotorua is packed with activities:
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Visit mud pools and geysers
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Discover Māori culture at a village experience
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Go trout fishing, jet boating, or skydiving
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Ride the Luge or explore the extensive mountain biking trails
Day 12: Rotorua to Auckland via Waitomo Caves
Stop by the famous Waitomo Caves before heading to Auckland. In the evening, enjoy Auckland’s vibrant waterfront dining scene.
Day 13: Explore Auckland
Take in panoramic views from Mt Eden, visit the black sand beaches of Piha or Karekare, or ferry to Waiheke Island for wineries and distilleries.
Day 14: Return to Auckland Airport
Drive to Scotties’ Auckland Airport depot, just minutes from the terminal. Drop off your car, and we’ll provide a free airport transfer.
With this itinerary in hand, you’re all set for an unforgettable New Zealand road trip! Let Scotties Car Rentals take care of the wheels—you focus on the adventure.