30 Day Essence of New Zealand Self-Drive Golf Tour


Kauri Cliffs

 Kauri Cliffs


Te Arai Links

 Te Arai Links


Kinloch Club

 Kinloch Club


Cape Kidnappers

 Cape Kidnappers


Terrace Downs

 Terrace Downs


Clearwater

 Clearwater


Jacks Point

 Jacks Point


Millbrook

 Millbrook


Wanaka Golf Course

 Wanaka Golf Course


Luxury Lodges

 Luxury Lodges


Boutique Hotels

 Boutique Hotels


Car Rental

 Car Rental


Interislander Ferry

 Interislander Ferry


Breakfast

 Breakfast


Pre Dinner Drinks

 Pre Dinner Drinks


Evening Meals

 Evening Meals


Heli Flight

 Heli Flight


Scenic Flight

 Scenic Flight


Boat Cruise

 Boat Cruise


Wine Tour

 Wine Tour


Star Gazing

 Star Gazing

30 Day Essence of New Zealand Self-Drive Golf Tour

Thirty days in New Zealand allows time to experience a golf tour like no other. Play most of the world-renowned marquee golf courses across both islands, discover the highlights of New Zealand, and travel at a comfortable pace that immerses you in each unforgettable destination.

The 30 Day New Zealand Self-Drive Golf Tour includes rounds of golf at the following courses:

And this is more than just a comprehensive golf tour of New Zealand. The self-drive vacation includes iconic New Zealand experiences, luxury lodge and 5-star hotel accommodation, and a selection of gourmet meals. From Queenstown to the Bay of Islands, discover natural wonders, wineries, and history.

Because this golf package encompasses the best of New Zealand, non-golfing partners will find a wealth of off-course highlights in each destination.

30 Day Essence of New Zealand Self-Drive Golf Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Queenstown

The Rees Hotel Queenstown New Zealand golf tours

Your New Zealand golf tour begins in Queenstown, a vibrant mountain resort town that brings together adrenaline activities, fine food and wine, and sophisticated luxury. Known as the golf capital of New Zealand, Queenstown is home to both championship marquee courses and picturesque club courses.

Immerse yourself in the excitement and beauty of Queenstown from your base at The Rees Hotel. Set on the lakefront, The Rees offers sophistication and southern hospitality at its finest.

Included today:

  • Premium rental car for the duration of your stay—pick up at Queenstown Airport and drop off at Kerikeri or Auckland Airport
  • Accommodation at The Rees Hotel

Stay 4 nights in Queenstown.

Day 2: Milford Sound Flight & Cruise + TSS Earnslaw Cruise & High Country Dinner

Milford Sound cruise

In the morning, board a fixed-wing aircraft for the scenic flight of a lifetime. Soar past mountains and glaciers, waterfalls and braided rivers, as you cross the wilderness of Mount Aspiring National Park and Fiordland National Park. Once you land at Milford Sound, join a scenic cruise travelling the length of the fiord and take in staggering views of Mitre Peak. Experience the power of thundering waterfalls, encounter wildlife in the sheltered waters of the fiord, and embrace the solitude and majesty of Milford Sound. After your cruise, your return flight travels a different route to unveil new scenery.

In the afternoon, step back in time to Queenstown’s pioneering history with a Lake Wakatipu cruise on the historic steamship the TSS Earnslaw. Disembark at Walter Peak High Country Farm, where you will enjoy a gourmet buffet dinner and an entertaining and informative farm demonstration.

Included today:

  • Milford Sound flight & scenic cruise
  • TSS Earnslaw cruise & dinner at Walter Peak High Country Station
  • Accommodation at The Rees Hotel

Day 3: Golf at Jack’s Point

Jack's Point golf course New Zealand

With a backdrop of 2300 vertical metres of the Remarkables Mountain Range and a premium lakefront position that opens up to panoramic views across Lake Wakatipu, Jack’s Point Golf Course is one of the most visually spectacular in the world. Designed by John Darby to work in harmony with the natural environment, the course winds past native tussock grasses, steep luffs, and rocky outcrops.

Following your round of golf, you may wish to visit Ayrburn, Queenstown’s newest world-class food and wine destination. This multi-venue precinct gives you the option to enjoy restaurants, bars, wine tastings and more. From handcrafted wines to diverse venues and beautiful grounds, you will uncover the essence of Ayrburn’s natural beauty and proud 160-year history.

Included today:

  • 18 holes of golf at Jack’s Point
  • Accommodation at The Rees Hotel

Day 4: Golf at Millbrook Coronet Course

Millbrook Golf Course Queenstown

This morning, tee off at Millbrook’s Coronet Course. Renowned as the home of the New Zealand Open, Millbrook rewards golfers of all levels with intriguing plays and impeccably maintained greens. The Coronet course takes its cues from the natural landscape, incorporating rugged hills and natural hazards. Dramatic elevation changes and panoramic views make this a course to remember.

After your round of golf, you have the option to explore Arrowtown. You’ll be enchanted by historic Arrowtown, a New Zealand treasure located 20 minutes from Queenstown. Arrowtown is charming and quirky – a delightful gold rush village nestled below the beautiful peaks that surround the sparkling Arrow River. The heart of its history is Buckingham Street, a procession of heritage buildings that stretches into a tree-lined avenue of tiny miner’s cottages. The buildings in this lovely precinct house shops, galleries, bars, and restaurants.

Included today:

  • 18 holes of golf at Millbrook – Coronet Course
  • Accommodation at The Rees Hotel

Day 5: Queenstown to Wanaka

Wanaka New Zealand

Leave Queenstown behind as you drive over the beautiful Crown Range, one of New Zealand’s highest alpine roads. Be sure to stop at the historic Cardrona Hotel or the Cardrona Distillery before your arrival into Wanaka, an alpine town boasting panoramic views, a relaxing atmosphere and myriad walking tracks.

During your time in Wanaka, stay at the beautifully appointed Lakeside Apartments, which boast magnificent lake views and a convenient central location.

Included today:

  • Accommodation at Lakeside Apartments Wanaka

Stay 3 nights in Wanaka.

Day 6: Golf at Wanaka Golf Club

Wanaka Golf Course New Zealand

Enjoy a round of golf at Wanaka Golf Club, a relaxed and welcoming course set in spectacular alpine scenery. The front nine opens up to views over the Wanaka township toward the lake and mountains beyond. Meanwhile, the back nine has more of a parkland feel with tree lined fairways and views of Mt Iron, Mt Gold and Cardrona Valley.

Included today:

  • 18 holes of golf at Wanaka Golf Club
  • Accommodation at Lakeside Apartments Wanaka

Day 7: Central Otago Full Day Wine Tour

Enjoy the taste of New Zealand’s finest Central Otago wines on an immersive wine tour. The focus is on leisure as you immerse yourself in the flavours and sights of this vineyard paradise. Your tour will take you through up to six of the region’s finest, including the little places that are quietly making a name for themselves with their dedication to excellence. Here you’ll get up close and personal with the vineyard owners and wine makers. Savour the unique atmosphere as well as the arts, crafts and history of Old Cromwell Town and enjoy the indulgence of an award-winning gourmet platter lunch made from local fresh produce.

Included today:

  • Central Otago Classic Full Day Wine Tour including gourmet platter lunch
  • Accommodation at Lakeside Apartments Wanaka

Day 8: Wanaka to Lake Tekapo + Summit Experience Stargazing Tour

Stargazing Lake Tekapo

Journey over the Lindis Pass into the Mackenzie Basin, passing through a landscape of golden tussock-covered peaks. This is a land of extremes, with snow-capped peaks and vivid turquoise lakes framing the rugged basin.

Lake Tekapo is situated in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best places in the world to enjoy an uninterrupted view of the night sky. From your room at Grand Suites Lake Tekapo, take in the magnificent lake and mountain views and explore the picturesque township.

Tonight, take part in the incredible Summit Experience stargazing tour, which brings the night sky to life with the stories and science of the southern skies. Stargaze using the naked eye guided by lasers and then proceed to explore deeper through 16″ optical telescopes in the private observatory dome. Take in the incredible Milky Way, far off planets, star clusters, solar systems, and even distant galaxies; every night sky reveals something different.

Included today:

  • Summit Experience Stargazing Tour
  • Accommodation at Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

Stay 3 nights in Lake Tekapo.

Day 9: Mount Cook Day Trip + Aoraki/Mt Cook Ultimate Helicopter Flight

Mt Cook helicopter flight New Zealand

Make a day trip to Mount Cook Village today. Nestled near the base of New Zealand’s highest mountain, Mount Cook Village is home to glaciers, towering peaks, and isolated valleys.

Take to the air for the ultimate helicopter tour of Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. Circle the summit of Aoraki/Mt Cook, experience a snow landing high on Tasman Glacier, take in views of the West Coast, and fly over the icebergs of the Tasman Terminal Lake.

Following your helicopter tour, you have the option to visit The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, located at The Hermitage Hotel. You could also visit the Aoraki Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre, which boasts two levels of informative displays about the flora, fauna, Māori heritage and walking tracks in the area. Or explore one of the trails near the village, which include the Hooker Valley Track and the ‘Stairway to Heaven’ to Sealy Tarns.

Included today:

  • Aoraki/Mt Cook Ultimate Helicopter Flight
  • Accommodation at Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

Day 10: Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo

Relax and explore Lake Tekapo today, with the option to play a round of golf at The Cairns, enjoy a rejuvenating soak at Tekapo Springs, or venture down one of the local walking trails.

Included today:

  • Accommodation at Grand Suites Lake Tekapo

Day 11: Lake Tekapo to Christchurch

The George Hotel Christchurch New Zealand golf tours

Leave behind the Southern Alps as you travel to Christchurch. Known as the “garden city,” Christchurch is renowned for its natural beauty, lively entertainment scene, and strong cultural heritage. With its stunning botanical gardens and tree-lined avenues, Christchurch is both a sophisticated city and beautiful place to relax.

Discover the vibrance of central Christchurch from your accommodation at The George, which looks out onto the picturesque Hagley Park.

Included today:

  • Accommodation at The George Christchurch

Stay 3 nights in Christchurch.

Day 12: Golf at Clearwater

Clearwater golf Christchurch

Tee off today at Clearwater, an oasis of undulating fairways and water features tucked amidst the Canterbury Plains. Known as one of New Zealand’s most challenging courses, Clearwater offers a rewarding test to golfers of all levels.

Included today:

  • 18 holes of golf at Clearwater
  • Accommodation at The George Christchurch

Day 13: Golf at Terrace Downs

Terrace Downs golf course New Zealand

Make a day trip to Terrace Downs for a round of high country golf at one of the most picturesque courses in the country. The parkland-style front 9 is sheltered, with a woodland feel, while the links-style back 9 plays across open countryside stretching to the edge of cliffs overlooking the mighty Rakaia River.

Included today:

  • 18 holes of golf at Terrace Downs
  • Accommodation at The George Christchurch

Day 14: Christchurch to Kaikoura

Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses Kaikoura

As you journey north, you will pass through the Waipara region, which is known for its vineyards and olive groves – an excellent place to pause for lunch. The impressive scenery of the coastal ranges accompanies the rest of the drive to Kaikōura.

The picturesque coastal town of Kaikoura is the perfect place for marine life encounters, coastal walks, and seafood delicacies such as blue cod, paua (abalone), and crayfish (lobster). Caught between the rugged Seaward Kaikoura Range and the Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura is home to whales, fur seals, and dolphins.

Take in sweeping views of the coast and the mountains from Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses, a stunning luxury lodge that immerses guests in nature. Your stay includes chef-cooked breakfasts, three-course gourmet dinners, and a complimentary mini-bar.

Included today:

  • Three-course dinner
  • Accommodation at Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses

Stay 2 nights in Kaikoura.

Day 15: Golf at Kaikoura Golf Club

Kaikoura golf club New Zealand

Play a round of golf at Kaikoura Golf Club, a picturesque course with a backdrop of the Seaward Kaikoura Range. Designed to require precision and strategic play, this course offers an enjoyable challenge.

Included today:

  • Full cooked breakfast
  • 18 holes of golf at Kaikoura Golf Club
  • Three-course dinner
  • Accommodation at Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses

Day 16: Kaikoura to Nelson

Pihopa Retreat Nelson

Meander around the coast to reach Nelson today. Along the way you will pass through Marlborough wine country, New Zealand’s largest winemaking region. Recognised internationally for its distinctive, herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough is home to about 65 wineries, 290 grape growers, and over 4,000 hectares planted in grapes – mainly Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer.

Nelson is a picturesque city offering beaches, wineries and boutique breweries. The region also enjoys New Zealand’s highest sunshine hours, which makes it a mecca for fruit-growing, and its natural beauty has attracted a number of artists to the area.

Tucked away at the heart of 5.5 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, Pihopa Retreat is your peaceful sanctuary in the heart of Nelson. Once part of the historic Nelson Diocese estate, the property holds a rich heritage. The retreat offers a unique blend of history, elegance, and tranquility, providing guests with a luxurious and serene escape just minutes from the city centre. Your stay includes gourmet breakfast, afternoon tea and biscuits, and pre-dinner drinks and canapés.

Included today:

  • Full cooked breakfast
  • Afternoon tea and biscuits
  • Pre dinner drinks and canapés
  • Accommodation at Pihopa Retreat

Stay 3 nights in Nelson.

Day 17: Abel Tasman Day Trip + Cruise, Walk & Sail

Abel Tasman sailing

Make your way to the Abel Tasman region, renowned for its golden-sand beaches, lush native forest, and abundant wildlife.

Begin with a water taxi from Kaiteriteri Beach to Anchorage Bay, where you will enjoy a 1.5 hour self-guided walk around the Pitt Head loop track offering panoramic views over the national park. In the afternoon, board a sailing catamaran and sail out to sea before returning to Kaiteriteri Beach.

Included today:

  • Gourmet breakfast
  • Abel Tasman cruise, walk & sail
  • Afternoon tea and biscuits
  • Pre dinner drinks and canapés
  • Accommodation at Pihopa Retreat

Day 18: Golf at Nelson Golf Club

Nelson golf club New Zealand

One of the few true links courses in New Zealand, Nelson Golf Club blends seamlessly into the magnificent coastal terrain. Friendly and welcoming, the course offers an enjoyable test for golfers of all levels.

Included today:

  • Gourmet breakfast
  • 18 holes of golf at Nelson Golf Club
  • Afternoon tea and biscuits
  • Pre dinner drinks and canapés
  • Accommodation at Pihopa Retreat

Day 19: Nelson to Picton + Ferry Picton to Wellington

Bolton Hotel Wellington

Make your way to Picton and board the ferry to Wellington.

Wellington, New Zealand’s capital city, has so much to offer. Set on the edge of a stunning harbour surrounded by rolling hills, it’s a city rich in culture ready to be explored.

Bolton Hotel is the perfect base to explore the highlights of Wellington, from Te Papa Museum to Cuba Street, Mount Victoria to the Wellington Cable Car. With cosy studios and spacious apartment-style suites, Bolton Hotel offers personalised service and boutique style in the heart of the capital.

Included today:

  • Gourmet breakfast
  • Bluebridge Ferry Picton to Wellington
  • Accommodation at Bolton Hotel

Stay 2 nights in Wellington.

Day 20: Golf at Royal Wellington Golf Course

Royal Wellington Golf Club New Zealand

Meandering through beautiful parklands bordering Te Awakairangi/Hutt River, Royal Wellington Golf Club is a championship level course with a long history. The undulating greens are excellent throughout, while a charming old-school clubhouse looks out over the picturesque fairways.

Included today:

  • 18 holes of golf at Royal Wellington Golf Course
  • Accommodation at Bolton Hotel

Day 21: Wellington to Hawke’s Bay

Hawke's Bay New Zealand

Make your way to Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand’s oldest and second largest wine growing region. This afternoon you may wish to explore Napier, the Art Deco capital of New Zealand.

Step into a world of luxury, comfort, and relaxation at Porters Boutique Hotel. Unwind in elegantly appointed guest rooms complete with plush classic furnishings and adorned with original local artwork. Enjoy attentive service within a stylish, intimate space that reflects the beauty and grandeur of the breathtaking Hawke’s Bay region.

Included today:

  • Accommodation at Porters Boutique Hotel

Stay 3 nights in Hawke’s Bay.

Day 22: Golf at Cape Kidnappers

Cape Kidnappers Golf Course New Zealand

Designed by Tom Doak, Cape Kidnappers frequently ranks among New Zealand’s top courses and has garnered worldwide renown for its daring course design. Enthralling from start to finish, Cape Kidnappers plays along deceptively narrow fingers of land that stretch to dizzying clifftops, separated by deep bush-clad ravines. Arresting coastal views dominate the oceanside holes, while the inland holes offer technically complex terrain.

Included today:

  • 18 holes of golf at Cape Kidnappers
  • Accommodation at Porters Boutique Hotel

Day 23: Hawke’s Bay Half Day Wine Tour

Hawke's Bay winery New Zealand

Taste your way through four internationally renowned wineries on a comprehensive Hawke’s Bay wine tour. Take in picturesque countryside and enjoy in-depth explanations as you delve into the local winemaking scene.

Included today:

  • Hawke’s Bay Panoramic Country and Wine Half Day Tour
  • Accommodation at Porters Boutique Hotel

Day 24: Hawke’s Bay to Taupo + Golf at Wairakei Golf Course

Wairakei Golf Course Taupo

Continue your journey to Taupo, where you will enjoy a round of golf at Wairakei Golf Course.

More than just a world-class golfing experience, Wairakei Golf Course is also a predator-free sanctuary that incorporates incorporates geothermal features. Designed by John Harris, the course immerses golfers in each play, with careful sculpting that ensures only one hole can be seen at a time.

Stay at Acacia Cliffs Lodge, an architecturally designed luxury lodge that offers an uninterrupted panorama of Lake Taupo, Mount Tauhara and the Kaimanawa Ranges. Your accommodation includes a complimentary bottle of New Zealand wine, gourmet breakfast, and pre-dinner drinks and canapés (Mon-Sat).

Included today:

  • 18 holes of golf at Wairakei Golf Course
  • Complimentary bottle of New Zealand wine
  • Pre-dinner drinks and canapés (Mon-Sat)
  • Accommodation at Acacia Cliffs Lodge

Stay 2 nights in Taupo.

Day 25: Golf at Kinloch Club

Kinloch Club golf course Taupo

Flowing through rugged volcanic terrain, Kinloch Club is New Zealand’s only Jack Nicklaus signature golf course. With a reputation as the most technically challenging course in the country, Kinloch Club offers a stern test, with rollercoaster terrain looking out toward Lake Taupo.

Included today:

  • Gourmet breakfast
  • 18 holes of golf at Kinloch Club
  • Pre-dinner drinks and canapés (Mon-Sat)
  • Accommodation at Acacia Cliffs Lodge
Te Arai Links accommodation

Make your way past Auckland to Te Arai Links, one of New Zealand’s newest marquee golf destinations. Home to two world-renowned links courses bordering a stretch of stunning coastline, this is golf at its finest.

Nestled amid picturesque dunelands, your accommodation at Te Arai Links takes an understated approach to luxury, utilising natural materials and earth tones to blead seamlessly with their surrounds. Your stay includes a la carte breakfast.

Included today:

  • Gourmet breakfast
  • Accommodation at Te Arai Links

Stay 3 nights at Te Arai Links.

Te Arai Links South Course New Zealand golf tours

Undulating past sandy dunes and windswept grasses, the South Course at Te Arai Links serves up fantastic ocean views from almost every hole. Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, the course flows across impeccably sculpted greens.

Included today:

  • A la carte breakfast
  • 18 holes of golf at Te Arai Links – South Course
  • Accommodation at Te Arai Links
Te Arai Links North Course New Zealand golf tours

Taking a more technical approach to course design, the North Course intrigues and confounds golfers as to the best approach to each hole. Unusual green shapes invite players to stop and plan each move, coaxing out unusual strategies that make this a course to play again and again.

Included today:

  • A la carte breakfast
  • 18 holes of golf at Te Arai Links – North Course
  • Accommodation at Te Arai Links
Rosewood Kauri Cliffs New Zealand golf tours

Continue north to your final New Zealand golf destination. Situated on a vast, remote working farm, Kauri Cliffs is a haven of luxury in the idyllic Bay of Islands.

Rosewood Kauri Cliffs greets guests with warm hospitality and refined elegance. Spacious, magnificently designed rooms overlook the coast, while the property encompasses walking trails, private beaches, and a tranquil spa. Your stay includes breakfast, a pre-dinner aperitif, and gourmet dinner.

Included today:

  • A la carte breakfast
  • Pre-dinner aperitif
  • Multi-course evening meal
  • Accommodation at Rosewood Kauri Cliffs

Stay 2 nights at Kauri Cliffs.

Day 30: Golf at Kauri Cliffs

Kauri Cliffs golf course New Zealand

Finish your New Zealand golf tour with a round of golf to remember at Kauri Cliffs. Designed by David Harman, the course hugs the elevated coastline, taking in stunning views from every turn. Play alongside the edges of cliffs and past deep ravines, with firm, fast greens throughout.

Included today:

  • Gourmet breakfast
  • 18 holes of golf at Kauri Cliffs
  • Pre-dinner aperitif
  • Multi-course evening meal
  • Accommodation at Rosewood Kauri Cliffs

Day 31: Kerikeri to Auckland + Depart Auckland

Either drive or take a domestic flight from the Bay of Islands to Auckland, where you will board your departing flight.

Included today:

  • Gourmet breakfast

New Zealand 30 Day Golf Tour – Customise Your Itinerary

All our tours give you the opportunity to customise your itinerary to suit your preferences. We also cater fully for the non-golfing partner, with activities and experiences designed so that they can make the most of their time in New Zealand.

Our expert team provide personal assistance and free tour planning, get in touch with us today to start planning your New Zealand golf tour.

 

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