Why go on a self-drive holiday in New Zealand?
A tour to New Zealand opens the door to a completely different world of endless natural wonders and unique local culture. You can experience it all on a self-drive tour, where the open road becomes your trusty travelling companion.
When you’re behind the wheel, you can relish the freedom to take little detours from your planned route, make interesting stops along the way and travel at the most comfortable pace of all: your own.
As you make your way from A to B, look forward to New Zealand’s magnificent and varied scenery, from rolling plains and shimmering glaciers to vineyards and volcanic landscapes.
Our self-drive holidays in New Zealand
Our self-drive holidays in New Zealand are designed to give you the perfect balance between planned experiences and the freedom to create your own adventures along the way. We’ve put together routes that lead you through the country’s most iconic regions, while leaving space for spontaneous detours whenever the spirit of adventure takes you.
Below, you can read more about some of the top highlights you can experience on a self-drive tour in New Zealand.
North Island
On the North Island, you’ll travel through volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and lush valleys that together create a uniquely contrasting backdrop to your self-drive adventure.
Look forward to exploring the city of Auckland, whose deep roots in Māori culture and impressive harbours blend city life with beautiful natural scenery. It’s also on the North Island that you can pop over to the world-famous hobbit holes at Hobbiton, the film set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
You can also look forward to driving past bubbling geothermal areas around Rotorua, for example Wai-O-Tapu, where steam rises from the earth and the forces of nature can be felt up close.
South Island
Discover the South Island’s dramatic landscapes, where fjords, snow-capped mountains, and glittering glaciers create an unforgettable backdrop for your self-drive tour.
Among other highlights, you’ll drive along the shores of the beautiful Lake Pukaki, gazing towards New Zealand’s highest peak, Mount Cook/Aoraki. You can also soak up vistas across the stunning New Zealand high country towards Central Otago, where vineyards, striking rock formations, and mountain scenery abound.
As you make your way along the South Island’s scenic roads, you’ll stop at unforgettable attractions, towns, and activities. New Zealand’s adventure capital, Queenstown, offers a wealth of adrenaline-fuelled thrills, including bungee jumping, jet boating, white-water rafting, and more. There’s also fantastic walking, for example around Arthur’s Pass Village and Mount Cook Village, as well as cruises on Milford Sound.
Combine with Australia
Experience even more of the southern hemisphere and combine your self-drive holiday in New Zealand with a tour to Australia.
Experience the contrasts of Australia, where modern cities meet wild landscapes. In Sydney, iconic sights, beautiful beaches, and the breathtaking Blue Mountains await. Head inland to witness Uluru glowing at sunset, or venture north to Cairns, an ideal base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree National Park.
Frequently asked questions about self-drive holidays in New Zealand
When you’re planning a self-drive holiday in New Zealand, plenty of questions can quickly crop up – from practicalities like driving licences and visas to considerations about the best time to travel.
That’s why we’ve gathered the answers to the most frequently asked questions, so you’re well prepared before you set off on your New Zealand adventure behind the wheel.
What is included in a self-drive tour?
When you choose a self-drive tour in New Zealand with TourCompass, flights, car hire, hotel stays, and the experiences listed in the itinerary are all included in the price.
If you’d like to make extra stops or explore on your own terms, you’re of course free to do so. In such cases, entry fees to attractions not included in the itinerary aren’t included in the package.
When is the best time to take a self-drive tour in New Zealand?
The best time for a self-drive tour in New Zealand is from November to April. During these months, the days are long, the weather is mild, and the risk of snow and ice on the roads is minimal.
In the winter months (June to August), roads, especially in the alpine regions, can become slippery due to frost, snow, and ice. For this reason, we don’t offer self-drive tours to New Zealand during this period.
How much does a self-drive holiday in New Zealand cost?
The price of your self-drive holiday in New Zealand depends on several factors, such as your chosen route, how long you’re away for, and the time of year that you visit.
Flights, car hire, hotels, and scheduled activities are included in all of our tours. You can also add extra days, so you get the tour you’re dreaming of. Request a quote to receive the exact price.
Is it safe to drive in New Zealand?
Yes, it’s safe to drive in New Zealand.
However, the sometimes harsh winter weather from June to August can cause icy roads, which is why we don’t offer self-drive tours in New Zealand during these months.
Which side of the road do you drive on in New Zealand?
In New Zealand, you’ll drive on the left-hand side, just as we do at home, so you’ll quickly feel at ease on New Zealand’s roads.
Can you drive in New Zealand with a British driving licence?
Yes, you can. However, if your licence is in a language other than English, you must also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP), which translates your licence into English.
Please note: You must always carry your physical driving licence.
Why book your self-drive holiday with TourCompass?
When you book your self-drive holiday in New Zealand with TourCompass, you will enjoy the freedom of travelling independently, with the reassurance of an experienced tour operator by your side.
We’ll make sure you get the chance to experience New Zealand’s most iconic sights, while tailoring your self-drive adventure with detours to the attractions you’ve been dreaming of. Along the way, you can keep track of your tour in the TourCompass app. There you’ll find your daily itinerary, where we suggest routes and experiences for the day.
If you need any help along the way, we and our local partners are on hand via our Emergency hotline staffed 24/7 throughout your tour.
Do you have any other questions?
Ready to experience New Zealand’s spectacular landscapes at your own pace? From dramatic fjords and shimmering lakes to lush rainforests and majestic mountains, New Zealand serves up natural wonders you won’t forget in a hurry.
Take the wheel and explore New Zealand. We can’t wait to help set you off on the adventure of a lifetime.
TourCompass – From tourist to traveller
