Few places in the world are as perfectly suited for a road trip as New Zealand. Cruise along winding coastal roads, pass rolling vineyards, and round the bends to find snow-capped mountains. Compact, scenic, and diverse, New Zealand was made for the open road.
For Canadian travellers, New Zealand by road is the ideal way to see the country. No crowded buses. No strict timetables. Just the freedom to explore at your own pace, stop when a view takes your breath away, and linger in the places you fall in love with.
To spark longing for the road, here are three incredible itineraries that showcase the very best of New Zealand.
Rings Adventure
Just in time for World Hobbit Day, Sept. 22, step into the landscapes that brought The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit to life. This route isn’t just for film fans—it’s for anyone drawn to dramatic mountains, volcanic plateaus, and ancient forests.
Must-See Stops
- Hobbiton Movie Set: Wander through the Shire, peek into hobbit holes, and enjoy a pint at The Green Dragon Inn.
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Tackle one of the world’s most famous day hikes across otherworldly volcanic terrain (aka Mount Doom).
- Wellington: Dive into the capital’s vibrant arts scene and don’t miss Weta Workshop, where cinematic magic happens.
This unforgettable adventure is perfect for movie buffs, photographers, and travellers who want to step into another world.
NZ Wine Trail
Love wine, food, and charming small towns? This trail takes you through New Zealand’s most celebrated wine regions, where you can sip world-class vintages and savour local flavours in picture-perfect settings. Perfect for couples seeking romance and indulgence, foodies, and anyone who enjoys a relaxed pace.
Must-See Stops
- Martinborough: A compact, walkable village of boutique wineries famous for Pinot Noir.
- Marlborough: Home of crisp Sauvignon Blanc and unforgettable cellar-door tastings.
- Hawke’s Bay: Known for its Syrah, art deco architecture, and sun-drenched coastline.
Scenic South Tour
This is the ultimate road trip for first-time visitors, covering the South Island’s greatest hits. From starry skies to glacier valleys, this itinerary blends natural wonders with iconic Kiwi adventures.
Must-See Stops
- Lake Tekapo: Gaze at the Milky Way in one of the world’s best Dark Sky Reserves.
- Queenstown: The adventure capital of New Zealand—think jet boating, wine tours, and adrenaline-pumping thrills.
- Milford Sound: Cruise through fjords framed by towering peaks and waterfalls.
- Franz Josef Glacier: Explore ice formations with a guided hike or take to the skies on a heli-tour.
Ideal for first-timers, this New Zealand road trip is great for families, retirees, and anyone looking for a full and well-rounded New Zealand experience.
Ready to See New Zealand by Road?
At Downunder Travel, we specialize in creating self-drive packages designed around what you want most—whether that’s movie magic, food and wine, or jaw-dropping scenery. When you’re ready to see New Zealand by road, we’ll take care of the planning, so you can focus on the fun.
Your Kiwi adventure starts here. Contact Downunder Travel today, and let’s design the road trip of a lifetime together.
