South Island Family Adventures

Nelson, Hanmer Springs, Christchurch, Mount Cook & Queenstown

Best time to travel

Sep – May

Ideal length

13 nights

Perfect for

Families

From (incl flights)

€3,749 pp (2 adults, 2 children)

At a glance

International flights from Dublin to Nelson and home from Queenstown.
Meet & greet on arrival, private airport transfer and 10 days’ pre-arranged car rental in a Toyota Camry, or similar.
13 nights’ accommodation in Nelson, Hanmer Springs, Christchurch, Mount Cook and Queenstown.
Explore Tonga Island Marine Reserve on a scenic kayaking tour.
Enjoy a thrilling jet ski and 4x4 adventure in Queenstown.

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Introduction

From tranquil coastlines to thrilling cities, your family is spoilt for choice with the offerings of New Zealand’s South Island. This family road trip takes you through the most beloved destinations of the island, with a range of exhilarating excursions and plenty of time to explore at your own pace. Stopping by pristine beaches, stunning national parks and bustling cities, there is something for all the family to enjoy on this holiday.

View all of our luxury holidays to New Zealand.

Trip Overview

Depart from Dublin to Nelson.

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by an OROKO representative. Collect your rental car and drive to your luxury accommodation in the heart of the city. During your three night stay, explore this charming city.

Kayak through picturesque seas.

Board a water taxi to Tonga Island Marine Reserve before gearing up with your kayaks. Paddle along the coast, visit the seals of the island, float atop the Falls River Lagoon and stop for a scrumptious Kiwi lunch on a secluded beach.

Set out for Hanmer Springs.

Spend three nights in this resort town. Hanmer Springs is best known for its natural thermal pools, surrounded by dramatic mountains and towering forests. Its picturesque landscapes invite with a variety of activities from woodland hiking to skiing in winter.

Unwind and explore in verdant Christchurch.

Enjoy a two night stay in Christchurch, also known as the Garden City. The city has a wealth of green spaces including its iconic botanic gardens. The city also houses fun institutions like the Air Force Museum and a miniature train railway.

Discover epic glaciers at Mount Cook.

Spend two nights by Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. The Park’s amazing surroundings feature a number of shorter walks perfect for families. Visit the Tasman Glacier or roam through the lush forest trails.

Your last stop is New Zealand’s adventure capital.

Arrive in Queenstown, drop off your rental car and settle in for a three night stay. Discover the city’s spectacular surroundings on a jet ski and 4X4 combo tour. Zoom through narrow river canyons and explore the city’s off-road wonders.

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

Abel Tasman Lodge

A stone’s throw from Abel Tasman National Park, this luxury lodge boasts a collection of private modern chalets set amongst the stunning native landscape of Marahau.

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Braemar Lodge

Set in the foothills of the Southern Alps, Braemar Lodge is an oasis of peace and luxury on the outskirts of Hanmer Springs. The lodge is surrounded by beautiful views of the mountains, farmland and alpine forests.

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The George

Overlooking the picturesque River Avon and Hagley Park, the George is a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Christchurch.

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The Hermitage Mount Cook

With unique activities and genuine Kiwi hospitality, the Hermitage Hotel is the perfect base to explore the natural wonders of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

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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 just wanted to say a big thank you to you and your team for organising our fabulous trip to Florence. The hotel was superb and in a brilliant location. Our tour guide was excellent – the wealth of information and knowledge he had was wonderful. The transport to and from the airport was always on time. We loved every minute of it!

Lisa & family – Florence, 2022