New Zealand at Your Own Pace
Create your own route through New Zealand’s diverse landscapes, enjoying the independence and variety only self-drive allows.
A self-drive holiday in New Zealand is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the country’s dramatic landscapes and diverse regions. With quiet, well-maintained roads and plenty of scenic routes, driving yourself offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, whether you’re on a full road trip or simply adding a few days behind the wheel into a wider itinerary.
Drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound
The South Island is tailor-made for road trips, with winding alpine passes, sparkling lakes, and rugged coastlines. One of our favourite drives is the route from Queenstown through Fiordland, where you can pause in Te Anau before continuing to Milford Sound. Here, staying at Milford Sound Lodge allows you to wake up surrounded by rainforest and towering peaks, the ultimate self-drive reward.
New Zealand North Island self-drive holidays
New Zealand's North Island is equally well-suited to driving, with scenic highways linking volcanic landscapes, rolling farmland, and coastal towns. A road trip here makes journeys between highlights effortless: from Auckland, Rotorua and Lake Taupo are easy to reach by car, while continuing on to Hawke’s Bay brings you to vineyard country, golden beaches, and charming Art Deco towns.
New Zealand self-drive tours
Self-driving in New Zealand can be the foundation of your entire holiday or simply add an period of increased flexibility to a longer adventure. It’s perfect for reaching hidden spots off the beaten track and stopping spontaneously at viewpoints, walks, or local cafés along the way. Family Holidays, in particular, can benefit from self-driving, with the extra luggage space and freedom to set your own pace, making long journeys more comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.
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New Zealand Trip Inspiration
Our New Zealand specialist, Ali, says:
"One of the real highlights of a self-drive holiday in New Zealand is being able to reach remote places. From Christchurch or Queenstown, the drive into the central South Island takes you through vast open landscapes around Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki. These are some of the world’s best stargazing spots, and much harder to experience without your own vehicle. The wide roads, dramatic mountain backdrops, and sense of space and solitude make this journey unforgettable, and a true escape from the usual tourist trail."
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Alistair
New Zealand Expert
FAQs About Your New Zealand Self Drive Holiday
Planning a holiday to New Zealand Self Drive? Our experts share advice on everything from what to pack, when to go, to tips for families, covering the questions we get asked the most.
Is New Zealand a good destination for a self-drive holiday?
Yes, New Zealand is one of the world’s best self-drive destinations. Roads are generally quiet, scenery changes dramatically over short distances, and there are countless places to stop along the way. Driving allows you to set your own pace, linger where you like, and reach more remote spots that tours often miss.
Is it easy to drive in New Zealand?
Yes, New Zealand roads are generally quiet, well-signposted, and easy to navigate. Driving is on the left, and most routes between main destinations are straightforward.
Do I need an international driving permit?
Most visitors can drive on their full, valid home licence for up to 18 months, though it must be in English. If not, an international driving permit is required, with which you can drive for 12 months.
How long should I plan for a self-drive holiday?
It depends on your itinerary. A week is enough to explore one island, while two to three weeks allows for a more relaxed journey taking in both.
Are campervans or cars better for self-driving?
Both have advantages. Cars combined with luxury lodges or hotels suit those wanting comfort, while campervans offer maximum flexibility for travellers seeking true independence.
Is self-driving suitable for families?
Absolutely. It gives families space for luggage, flexibility with timings, and the chance to explore at their own rhythm, making travel with children more enjoyable.
Can you combine self-driving with guided tours?
Yes, many of our clients mix the two. You might self-drive between key destinations, then join guided experiences such as heli-hiking, wine tours, or cultural excursions once you arrive.
What is the best way to get between the North and South Islands?
The most popular way to travel between the islands is via the ferry between Wellington and Picton, a scenic three-hour journey across the Cook Strait.s. Alternatively, you can fly between major cities such as Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. If you’re on a self-drive trip, rental cars can usually be transferred or swapped at the ferry terminals.
Is New Zealand very expensive when you are there?
New Zealand can definitely be pricier than some other destinations due to its high level of development, especially accommodation and dining. However, there is a wide variation in options for lodges and activities that can suit every budget without compromising your experience.
When is the best time to visit New Zealand?
The best time is during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer, December to February, for warm weather and outdoor activities. Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds but more mild conditions.