Days 1–2 · Christchurch
Botanic Gardens, the Avon punt and the TranzAlpine rail journey through Arthur's Pass.
New Zealand travel guide
New Zealand Holiday Packages from Australia
New Zealand is close, easy and spectacular: three hours from Sydney, no language barrier and scenery that changes every hour on the road. This guide covers a proven South Island route, realistic costs, the NZeTA requirement for Australian residents and non-citizens, and the season that suits your plans — whether that is glaciers, ski fields or long summer daylight.
A classic 10-day South Island itinerary
Christchurch to Queenstown via the glaciers and fiords. Works as a self-drive, a private chauffeured trip or an escorted coach departure.
Days 3–4 · West Coast glaciers
Franz Josef and Fox Glacier, with an optional heli-hike and the Hokitika Gorge.
Day 5 · Wanaka
Haast Pass, lakeside Wanaka and the Rob Roy valley.
Days 6–7 · Queenstown
Skyline gondola, Lake Wakatipu cruise to Walter Peak and a Gibbston Valley wine afternoon.
Day 8 · Milford Sound
Te Anau, the Homer Tunnel and a nature cruise beneath Mitre Peak.
Days 9–10 · Mount Cook & departure
Lake Pukaki, Aoraki/Mount Cook and the drive back for your flight home.
More ideas on the New Zealand destination page.
What this holiday costs
Return flights Sydney–Christchurch or Queenstown
From around $450 economy, $700 in peak seasons
10-day self-drive package
From $2,399 per person, twin share, including car
Hotels, 4-star
Roughly $220–$380 per room per night; more in Queenstown in peak season
Rental car or campervan
Around $75–$140 per day depending on season and vehicle
Meals, cruises and daily spending
Allow $110–$180 per person per day
All figures are indicative guides in Australian dollars for planning only. Final pricing depends on your travel dates, airline, hotel category, group size, exchange rates and availability at the time of booking, and is confirmed in writing before you pay.
Best time to travel
Summer · December to February
Long daylight, warm lakes and the best hiking. Peak prices and book accommodation early, especially Queenstown and Wanaka.
Autumn · March to May
Golden poplars around Arrowtown and Wanaka, stable weather and noticeably better value — the connoisseur's season.
Winter · June to August
Ski season at Coronet Peak, The Remarkables and Cardrona, plus clear crisp days for Milford Sound.
Spring · September to November
Snow still on the peaks, waterfalls at full flow in Fiordland and the lowest crowds of the year.
Seasonal dates shift each year with the weather; we track the forecasts and advise on departure dates before you commit.
Visa and entry tips
- Australian citizens travelling on an Australian passport do not need a visa or an NZeTA to visit New Zealand.
- Australian permanent residents and other passport holders from visa-waiver countries must obtain an NZeTA before departure.
- Most visitors also pay the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy when applying for the NZeTA.
- New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules — declare all food, plant and outdoor equipment on arrival; we brief you before you fly.
Entry rules can change at short notice. Always confirm current requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate and with Smartraveller before you travel. We assist with documentation but cannot guarantee entry decisions.
Ready to plan your New Zealand holiday?
Tell us your dates and whether you want to drive yourself or be driven. Our Sydney consultants map the route, book the Milford cruise and hold the lodges that sell out first.