The Catlins, Stewart Island and Doubtful Sound Explorer

New Zealand by Road Trip & Overnight Cruise

Best time to travel

Sep – May

Ideal length

13 nights

Perfect for

Couples

From (incl flights)

€5,569 pp

At a glance

International flights from Dublin to Dunedin and home from Queenstown.
Private airport transfer, ferry transfers and 10 days’ pre-arranged car rental in a Toyota Camry, or similar.
13 nights’ accommodation in Dunedin, The Catlins, Stewart Island, Te Anau, Queenstown and aboard your overnight cruise of the Doubtful Sound.
Experience the beauty and wildlife of Stewart Island with a guided cruise of its villages and through the Paterson Inlet.
Discover the remote and vast Doubtful Sound on an overnight cruise.

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Introduction

On a luxury road trip, set out on a discovery of the sublime forests, sparkling lakes, unspoilt beaches and mighty fjords of South Island’s southern coastline. Begin your adventure in the Otago region, exploring castles in Dunedin and witnessing the rare wildlife of The Catlins. Cross the Foveaux Strait for a few days of cultural and nature immersion on Stewart Island before returning to the mainland to explore the famed Fiordland where spectacular hikes and overnight cruises await.

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Trip Overview

Depart from Dublin to Dunedin.

Upon arrival, collect your rental car and drive to your luxury accommodation in the heart of Dunedin, New Zealand’s oldest city. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history with an exploration of Larnach Castle and its manicured grounds.

Discover The Catlins.

Spend two nights in the South Island’s most southerly region, revelling in its stunning coastal landscapes. Spend days relaxing on the beach, watching the tide from the Curio Bay Cliffs, and observing endangered species like the rare yellow-eyed penguin.

Ride the ferry to Stewart Island.

During your three night stay on this leafy isle, enjoy a guided tour of its culturally rich villages and a cruise along the picturesque Paterson Inlet, viewing hidden coves and unspoilt beaches. Disembark at Ulva Island, a renowned wildlife sanctuary rich in rare plants and birdlife.

Explore New Zealand’s Fiordland.

Enjoy a two night stay in Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland National Park and the spectacular Milford Sound. Discover ancient forests and cascading waterfalls in this glacier-carved wilderness as you hike some of the world’s most scenic trails.

Cruise the unforgettable Doubtful Sound.

Step aboard the Milford Wanderer for your overnight cruise. Witness the unspoilt and unmatched beauty of this fjord as naturalist guides provide insightful commentary. Explore the shoreline by kayak and stargaze from the ship’s upper deck.

Journey to New Zealand’s adventure capital.

Arrive in Queenstown, drop off your rental car and settle in for a three night stay. The city’s surroundings are a playground for the adventure-seeker while its cosmopolitan centre is a hub of fine dining and a budding art scene.

Privately transfer to the international airport for your flight home.

Arrive in Dublin.

Tailoring your holiday

OROKO Itineraries are created with you in mind and no two are the same. These can be used to help plan your trip - or we can design a completely different itinerary to suit you.

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Accommodation

Where to rest your head

Looking for the best accommodation? We've got the contacts

Fable Dunedin

Be transported back to the Victorian Era when you stay at the Fable Dunedin. Located in the heart of Dunedin, this elegant and historic hotel is elevated with contemporary touches.

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Curio Bay Accommodation

Sitting beachfront and overlooking Porpoise Bay, the family-run Curio Bay Accommodation is the perfect base to explore The Catlins.

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Stewart Island Lodge

Hidden in the island’s native bush, Stewart Island Lodge is a refuge from the modern world. The lodge offers spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and Foveaux Strait.

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Cabot Lodge

Set on thousands of acres of farmland bordering the beautiful Fiordland and overlooking Lake Manapouri, family-run Cabot Lodge is a luxurious and homely working farm.

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Milford Wanderer

A state-of-the-art vessel, the Milford Wanderer was purpose-built to navigate southern New Zealand. The ship is designed along the lines of a traditional sailing scow.

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Hotel St Moritz

Ideally located in Queenstown, Hotel St Moritz overlooks Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables Mountain Range.

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What people are saying

We loved the OROKO travel documents! We are so impressed with the service we have received from your company. We will most certainly recommend you to our family and friends. You have thought of everything and we are very appreciative.

Sharon & Tom – Greece, September 2019