Southern Lights Classic 2028 (New Zealand)

Thirty days. Two extraordinary islands. One unforgettable journey through the land of the long white cloud.

From the harbours and vineyards of Auckland to the spectacular alpine landscapes of the Southern Alps, Southern Lights is a Grand Tour of New Zealand at its finest. A journey through the North and South Islands, combining world-class driving roads, wild coastlines, ancient forests, exceptional food and wine, and some of the most breathtaking scenery on earth.

The North Island sets the scene. Begin with the island vineyards and coastal beauty of Waiheke, including a private wine tour, before heading north through the beautiful Bay of Islands and the coastal settlements of Paihia and Taipa. Discover the towering ancient kauri trees of Waipoua Forest, experience Māori culture in Rotorua, then follow the east coast through Gisborne and Napier, with its distinctive Art Deco architecture and celebrated wine region, before reaching Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital.

The South Island delivers the grand adventure. Cross Cook Strait aboard the Interislander before exploring the vineyards of Blenheim, the creative coastal city of Nelson and the golden beaches of Golden Bay. Continue south through Kaikōura and Hanmer Springs before taking on the spectacular Great Coast Road, where rugged cliffs, wild beaches and the limestone formations of Punakaiki lead towards the glaciers of the West Coast.

Cross the Southern Alps via Haast Pass to reach the lakeside beauty of Wānaka and Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Three nights here allow time to enjoy the legendary Crown Range road, explore the wilderness around Glenorchy, discover the celebrated vineyards of Central Otago and cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak. The journey continues into Fiordland, with the extraordinary wilderness of Doubtful Sound and the glowworm caves of Te Anau, before heading south through Invercargill and Dunedin.

The Southern Alps provide a spectacular finale. Journey north towards Aoraki / Mount Cook, where immense peaks, turquoise glacial lakes and vast mountain landscapes provide an unforgettable backdrop. As night falls, experience some of the darkest skies on earth, with the opportunity to discover the extraordinary clarity of New Zealand’s southern stars.

Throughout the journey, the experience extends well beyond the road. Classic Rallies brings together hand-picked accommodation, outstanding regional dining, private wine tours, cultural encounters and memorable excursions, with the freedom to explore these remarkable islands behind the wheel of a classic car.

Your participation includes 29 nights of carefully selected accommodation, daily breakfasts, lunches and dinners, welcome and gala dinners, the Waiheke and Central Otago wine tours, guided experiences in Waipoua Forest and at Te Pā Tū, Zealandia, premium lounge access aboard the Interislander and the TSS Earnslaw cruise to Walter Peak. Flights, vehicle hire or shipping, fuel, tolls, insurance and visas are additional. Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a car and room.

Southern Lights is not a trip to rush through. It is thirty days to discover two extraordinary islands, experience the remarkable diversity of New Zealand and enjoy some of the world’s finest driving roads in the company of like-minded couples and friends.

Two islands. Thousands of unforgettable miles. One truly grand adventure.