New Zealand Road Trip
November 24-December 5, 2024
Let’s Roadtrip around South Island!
Join photographer, Emilie Hofferber, on a road trip of a lifetime?!
Escape to the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand's South Island and embark on an unforgettable trip filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, exhilarating adventures, and warm Kiwi hospitality. On this 11 day excursion, we will be traveling in camper vans, the best way to immerse ourselves amongst the beauty of New Zealand.
With its snow-capped peaks, pristine lakes, lush forests, and rugged coastlines, the South Island offers a diverse range of natural wonders that will leave you speechless. Spend time exploring the majestic fjords of Milford Sound, where towering cliffs plunge into the deep blue waters, and go hiking in the Southern Alps with views of glaciers. Our trip is timed in line with the beginning of the summer season to enjoy the meadows of wildflowers.
We’ll visit the vibrant city of Queenstown and experience the warm hospitality of the local communities in smaller towns like Wanaka. Discover the magic of New Zealand's South Island with us and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Each camper van is double occupancy and we have two different styles! Each is equipped with two beds and a small kitchen that will come stocked with enough food to get us started on our adventure!
Day 1:
Hello new zealand!
After you arrive in Christchurch, your driver will be waiting to transport you to a nearby hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you might have a chance to venture out and explore the city!
In the evening, we will meet for dinner! This is our opportunity to get to know each other and get organized for the next day. It’s your choice if you stay in to catch up on some rest after your long flight or check out more of Christchurch in the evening.
If you are flying in a day early and would like assistance in booking a hotel, just let us know!
Day 2:
Arthur’s Pass to Hokitika
We pick-up our camper vans today! You will be given a basic grocery kit to get you started on your trip. We want to make sure you are ready for a few meals to enjoy in your van, and along the way you will have the opportunity to stop by restaurants or restock your supply and cook outside at camp.
Once we are situated in our vans, we hit the road and head towards Hokitika. Our adventure begins with a drive through what’s said to be one of the most scenic drives in the entire world, Arthur’s Pass. We will take our time and make plenty of stops for photo opportunities.
After we arrive at camp, get settled in and then you’ll have an opportunity to relax and make dinner. You can take a walk along the nearby beach or stay up to view the glow worms! They are best seen later at night so expect to leave between 9-10pm for a unique experience.
Day 3:
franz josef/fox glacier
Before we start our journey to Fox Glacier and the Franz Josef Village, we will stop to do the Hokitika Gorge Walk. While on the swing bridge you’ll get an amazing view of the stunning blue glacial water. Ideally we arrive here over lunchtime when the water is said to be at its brightest.
After this short detour we are on our way to Franz Josef Village and Glacier! You have the option for a short hike, peruse the local shops and restaurants or stop by the West Coast Wildlife Centre to see a very rare bird, the kiwi! Each night we’ll be keeping an eye out for the perfect sunset!
Recommended hikes: Franz Josef Glacier Trail | Sentinel Rock Walk
Day 4:
Blue pools
Optional, but highly recommended, is our sunrise hike to Lake Matheson. We know it’s early, but trust us, the payoff is worth it. This is an easy hiking trail so that’s a bonus!
If sunrise isn’t your thing, you can choose to explore more of the village, head to Fox Glacier, or find another stunning short hike. We will regroup midday before making our way to Blue Pools. Emilie has recommendations for scenic photo stops along the way!
We’ll arrive at Blue Pools mid-afternoon when you’ll have time to take a dip and grab all the photos you’ll want. The rest of the day is on your own, but there will be an optional sunset photo adventure.
Day 5:
on to wanaka
This is our slow morning! You can head straight to Wanaka to explore or enjoy the area around Blue Pools further. This is a short driving day, so enjoy this leisurely time!
You get to choose your own adventure today! If Roy’s Peak has been on your bucket list, today is the day! You can also choose an easier hike, take a boat tour to Stevenson’s Island, take a scenic flight or just chill in town. There isn’t a lack of beautiful places to visit.
We will enjoy a sunset together as a group, location TBD based on weather conditions!
Day 6:
Wanaka to milford sound
We will take our time getting to Milford Sound! Stopping in Te Anau is a must since it’s our last chance to fuel up and grab last and stock up on snacks and groceries. We will be here for two nights so make sure to have everything for your meals.
This stunning drive is about 4 hours and winds through some of the most epic scenery you’ll find in New Zealand, ending at Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We will be staying at a primitive campground with an optional sunset drive. You can also relax at the campground and take in all the views.
Day 7:
milford sound boat tour
Today we get to experience one of the most beautiful locations in New Zealand by water. It’s famously referred to as the “8th Wonder of the World” by Rudyard Kipling. Our boat cruise starts at 8am and will last about 2 hours. This area of Fiordland has been carved by glaciers over 100,000 years and has two permanent waterfalls, though many many more appear if our cruise happens to be on a rainy day.
After our tour, there are many options to explore this amazing area. We will recommend hikes based on difficulty level and there will definitely be a sunset adventure, weather permitting.
Day 8:
Back to queenstown
Today we drive from Milford Sound to Queenstown!
There are plenty of adventurous hikes around Queenstown, breweries to explore, and in the evening you can join Emilie on a sunset adventure, location to be determined based on weather.
We also recommend signing up for the Skyline Gondola or visiting the Onsen Hot Pools! If you have other bucket list activities to check off, let us know!
Day 9:
the tallest mountain in New zealand
We leave early for Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, home to the highest peaks and longest glaciers in New Zealand and is also part of the largest Dark Sky Reserve in the world!
We will be staying at a primitive campsite area for 2 nights. There is a bathroom, no shower facilities onsite, but they are available nearby for a small fee.
Highly recommended is the Hooker Valley Track. It’s about 6 miles, but with very little elevation gain since it winds through the valleys to give you the most amazing view of Mount Cook.
Day 10:
Explore Aoraki Mount Cook National Park
There are many trails in the park that range from easy to very difficult. The choice is yours! We will be staying a second night here so you have the day to explore or find a quiet scenic spot for some respite. We’ve had a lot of driving so you’ll be ready for a down day!
Later that evening you can choose to cook dinner in your van or meander to the Hermitage Hotel for food and libations.
Recommended hikes: Tasman Glacier Lookout | Sealy Tarns
Day 11:
tekapo
We have a short drive to Tekapo today. You will have the day to explore the town and surrounding area. On our way to Tekapo, we will see Lake Pukaki, one of the bluest lakes in New Zealand. You can take your time to stop for all the photos along the way, or head straight to Tekapo and check out the cafes, shops, hiking trails and other surrounding lakes.
It’s our last night together and it’s a real treat! We will experience the only guided hot pools and stargazing tour in New Zealand! This 1.5 hour experience begins at 10pm so we can make the most of the night sky. Once we’ve finished the stargazing tour, we’re rewarded with a long soak in a floating hammock for a feeling of immersing yourself in the stars.
Day 12:
Farewell New Zealand!
We leave early in the morning for Christchurch to return our home on wheels and head to the airport. You will have transportation from the van drop-off location to the airport. If your flight is later in the day, you can opt to have some time in Christchurch before heading home.
If you need to stay another night due to flight times, we can help secure hotel arrangements if needed.
Questions? Please reach out to Melissa Wright at melissa@womenwhoexplore.com
Meet Your Trip Host
emilie Hofferber
Hi! My name is Emilie and I've been taking photos since I was in high school. In 2021 I decided it was time for me to *try* going full time with photography and am now entering my fourth year of taking photos of pretty places for a living! During my first year, I lived in a 13 year old Subaru Outback to figure out how to make my dreams come true. I now live in a van that allows me to feel truly at home anywhere I go.
Last December, I solo roadtripped around the North and South Islands of New Zealand and absolutely fell in love with everything about NZ. It had been such a bucket list trip for me and I want to experience the magic of it all over again—but with **YOU**
If you like taking photos and traveling to new places and making friends with likeminded women, this trip is for you! There is no requirement to come with a professional photo setup, any camera will do! If you are new to taking photos or you’re a seasoned professional, this trip is about experience first and capturing the magic through the moments rather than all the technical stuff. Photography can be so intimidating at times but I really just want this to be fun for everyone! The best photos come when you’re experiencing life at its fullest and New Zealand is the best place to do that. :)
Please note that the itinerary provided for your adventure is subject to change. While we strive to adhere to the proposed plan, unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions, safety concerns, or other factors beyond our control may necessitate adjustments to the itinerary. We prioritize your safety and enjoyment throughout the adventure, and any modifications made will be done with careful consideration. We will make every effort to inform you in advance of any changes and provide suitable alternatives to ensure a fulfilling experience.
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$3,695 - $3,895 per person, double occupancy depending on vehicle choice. Single occupancy add-on is $2,095.
A deposit is due at booking to hold your spot with regular monthly payments. Additional payments may be applied to the trip balance prior to payment due dates.
We will do our best to match you with a driving partner if you book as a single. If the other spot is unable to be filled, you will be required to to purchase the single occupancy upgrade since all prices are based on double occupancy.
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• One night in a hotel in Christchurch
• 11 days/10 nights accommodations in a camper van rental with two beds, kitchen, table, cooking utensils, linens, etc.
• Private transfers to and from airport, hotel and camper van rental company on arrival day.
• 10 nights camper van holiday park reservations in a private site
• 3 hour guided boat tour of the Milford Sound
• Guided tour exploring local hot pools and star gazing on Day 11
• Drive through the Milford Sound, a Unesco World Heritage site
• Free time to explore Franz Josef Village, Queenstown, Tekapo and Christchurch
• Meals include a welcome dinner, one group dinner at the holiday park, charcuterie board dinner, and a bag with basic groceries at the beginning of trip
• Women Who Explore trip leader with you and available for support 24/7
• Travel checklists, detailed packing list and pre-travel support provided in a private WhatsApp group
• WWE Swag to make your heart happy!
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• International flights to/from Christchurch, New Zealand
• Airport transfers if arriving outside of designated arrival and departure dates and locations as noted
•Airport transfer on departure date.
• Alcohol, additional beverages, snacks and meals as noted above
• Tips and gratuity for local guides and driver (at the discretion of the guest)
• Any additional excursions or optional activities not included in the above
• The NZeTA (New Zealand electronic Travel Authoricy) and the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL), both paid at the same time here.
• Any travel related medical expenses such as immunizations, vaccinations, or required Covid-19 testing (not required for New Zealand as of 5/2023)
• Travel insurance (required, see below)
• Additional driver for the van
• Fuel for the camper van
• Additional vehicle insurance outside of the Basic Coverage
• Personal expenses not included in the itinerary such as additional accommodations, transportation, souvenirs, etc.
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All meals will be provided as noted in the itinerary. Please share any food allergies/sensitivities at the time of booking or reach out to share with the trip host. We always do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions but cannot make any guarantees.
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This trip requires a minimum number of attendees to register in order for it to be confirmed. Once the trip reaches the minimum participant number, you will receive a trip confirmation email and a link to be added a private WhatsApp group just for trip guests. In this group further trip details will be provided along with pre-travel support.
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Please see our Terms of Service.
*Please note: some of our trips have a non-refundable fee that will be stated in the trip description.
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Women Who Explore guests will be required to follow the local Covid-19 guidelines and requirements as set forth by the local governing body of the destination being visited.
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Travel (and medical) insurance is required for anyone traveling on a Women Who Explore adventure. Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. Your insurance policy should also include specific Covid-19 cover, including cancellation and curtailment cover if you or a close relative are diagnosed with Covid-19.
For recommended travel insurance providers click here.