New Zealand Southern Scenic Route - Self Drive

New Zealand Southern Scenic Route – Self Drive


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Road tripping New Zealand is the perfect family holidays. Not only can you run to your own schedule (working around kids rest times, play times and eating times) but they save you big dollars on transportation and accommodation too! Having your own motor home also means you don't have to lug your suitcases and you have flexibility to add a night here or there to any itinerary. This self drive itinerary for Fiordland and the Southern Coast on the South Island takes in all the favourites like Queenstown, Fiordland, Milford Sound and Dunedin. This itinerary can be completed in 7 days but ideally if you can spare 10 days its perfect.





Southern Scenic Route New Zealand Self Drive Map




Commence your journey of the Southern Scenic Route New Zealand at the picturesque city of Queenstown, nestled amongst The Remarkables mountain range. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush there are endless opportunities here - bungy jumping, jet boating, sky diving or dirt biking! Drive along the banks of Lake Wakatipu towards New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park. The mountain scenery along the way is truly majestic as you drive through miles of open farmland. Stopping over in Te Anau, explore the magnificent and remote regions of Milford Sound which is a 5 hour return drive. Take a boat trip to the glow worm caves for a magical experience. Alternatively take an 8 hour return trip to the wilderness region of Doubtful Sound for untouched fiordland scenery from Manapouri.





Milford Sound New Zealand




Continue along the Southern Scenic Route to Western Southland stopping to find your fortune at the rugged Gemstone Beach. Further on, stop at the sleepy seaside town of Riverton and visit the Te Hikoi Southern Journey Museum for an insight into the Maori and European historical settlement. The Southern Scenic Route winds onto Invercargill, NZ’s most southerly point. Take a photo at famous Bluff signpost, and if time permits spend a night or two at Stewart Island to spot the kiwi bird in its natural habitat.





Shotover Jet New Zealand




Driving along the southern coast of New Zealand, the Southern Scenic Route takes you into the Catlins region, where native forests meet rugged cliffs and sandy beaches. Explore the region, stopping off at Nugget Point, Puralaunui Falls, Cathedral Caves and Curio Bay where you may see sea lions, dolphins and yellow eyed penguins in their natural habitat. For some leisurely activities stop off for some fishing and golf in Clutha Country before concluding the Southern Scenic Route in the university city of Dunedin. Both picturesque and bohemian in architecture, Dunedin is a great place to explore New Zealand’s heritage and wildlife. Take a trip to the Cadbury’s World, visit the Toitu Museum, and venture to Otago Peninsular home to the Royal Albatross breeding colony, stopping off at the country’s only castle, Larnach. Finally, make sure you drive up the steepest road in the world – Baldwin Street!





This suggested itinerary is courtesy of Driveaway holidays. More information and suggested itineraries can be found in their very comprehensive driving guide to New Zealand. Download it free here http://bit.ly/NewZealandselfdrive Your BYOkids travel consultant can arrange flights, car hire, accommodation, sightseeing and more in New Zealand. Call us now 1300 296 543 or message us via Facebook









Queenstown New Zealand




New Zealand Important Info
Currency
The local currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD$).
Notes are in denominations of NZD$100, 50, 20, 10, and 5. Coins are in denominations of $2, 1, 50c, 20 and 10.
Currency Exchange
Currency can be exchanged at several places including banks, post offices, airports, train stations and major hotels.
Banking Hours
New Zealand banks are generally open during work hours 9.30am till 4.30pm. There are some banks that have extended hours in shopping centres, along main streets and may open on Saturdays.
ATMs
ATMs (automatic teller machines) are widely available throughout New Zealand in shopping malls, airports and high streets.
Credit Cards
All major credit cards are accepted in New Zealand. Some businesses may not accept American Express or Diners but more than likely this will be displayed.
Tax
As most nations goods and services in New Zealand are subject to TAX. This is generally at a rate of 10% and does apply to car rental extras such as baby seats or GPS units.
Tipping
Employees in New Zealand do not depend on tips for income. Tipping in appreciation of good service is at your own discretion.







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