Discover the unsurpassed beauty, natural wonders, and rich culture as you road trip through New Zealand’s South Island.
New Zealand’s scenic South Island is currently in the spotlight, with Tourism New Zealand launching a campaign highlighting five road-trip journeys. Travel during autumn and the colours of the South Island are brought to life.
Tourism New Zealand’s Travel Trade website has all the tips and tricks you need to know on South Island adventures. These road-trips were created to show Aussie tourists the best of a destination that boasts everything from pristine wilderness to award-winning wineries.
And, best of all, this magical land that’s home to friendly locals keen to welcome visitors from across the Tasman Sea is only a three-hour flight from Australia’s east-coast capitals.
Over the past month we’ve highlighted the first three journeys, keep reading to discover the final two road-trips, Discover the South and the Southern Scenic Route, these two are guaranteed to get your customers closer to the real New Zealand than ever before.
Agents – there is also the chance to test your knowledge and WIN a $250 Gift Card!
DISCOVER THE SOUTH
Clients keen on seeing natural wonders and rich history will love the Discover the South itinerary. This 840km journey starts in Christchurch and points south to visit Oamaru, Dunedin and Central Otago before winding up in all-seasons Queenstown.
Spend the first day in Christchurch taking in state-of-the-art architecture and quirky street art, before exploring the rich history of Oamaru. Visit the settlement’s Victorian Precinct and Steampunk Playground and Museum – with a sunset stop at the nearby penguin colony.
Travel south to Dunedin on day three, savouring the wild landscape along the coastal route. Don’t forget to check out the natural wonder of the Moeraki Boulders – before stopping in one of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian towns south of the equator. These first few days are the perfect mix of nature and heritage.
The final day journeys through Central Otago, with time for wine tasting, quaint villages and even time to fit in a cycle on one of New Zealand’s Great Rides, like the Otago Central Rail Trail.
SOUTHERN SCENIC ROUTE
If rare wildlife, rugged landscapes, outdoor activities, seafood, and scenic driving are on the client’s wish list then look at the dramatic territory in the very south of New Zealand by completing the Southern Scenic Route.
The road-trip from Christchurch to Queenstown, takes in Dunedin, the Catlins and the South Island’s most southerly locations Invercargill, Te Anau, Stewart Island, and Fiordland National Park.
If wildlife is your thing – Dunedin is home to fur seals, sea lions, penguins and albatross – and on Stewart Island it’s all about feathered friends with dozens of bird species inhabiting tranquil Ulva Island. Stewart Island is the largest home for wild kiwi in New Zealand, meaning there is always a chance to have a nocturnal encounter with one of these friendly kiwis.
Fiordland National Park also beckons with glow-worm caves, home to some of New Zealand’s most famous hiking trails. Milford and Doubtful Sound are not to be missed– with options of kayaking, overnight cruise or just a boat cruise, adding this to your client’s itinerary is bound to leave them impressed.
BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE…
Think you’re now a South Island expert? Well, you’re well on your way to becoming a New Zealand aficionado.
Visit the Tourism New Zealand’s website to uncover the South Island’s five fabulous road trips and then test your knowledge in a fun quiz for the chance to win a $250 gift card.
Which one of these South Island journeys would you want to experience?
- READ: Win BIG when you become a 100% Pure New Zealand Specialist
- READ: FREE WHEELIN’: a road trip on New Zealand’s South Island!
- READ: SOUTH ISLAND SOJOURN: Bask in Mother Nature’s beauty
Written By Sarah Nicolson, a KARRYON contributor
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