South Island New Zealand road trip: 1- 4 week itinerary

If you’re anything like me, then doing a South Island New Zealand road trip has been on your bucket list for the longest time. Heck, I had my first dream New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary running through my head before I’d even taken my first flight.

Please note that this blog post most likely contains affiliate links to products or services I use and love! If you click on the links, it means I get a little extra pocket money at no additional cost to you.
This is what keeps my website ticking over – thank you!

So now, decades later and with years of travel under my belt – including three years living in New Zealand – I’m here to tell you that YES! Your New Zealand South Island holiday will absolutely be everything you dreamed of.

And to make sure you make the most of your time and money exploring this beautiful country, I’ll also share my top tips. What are the South Island things to do that you absolutely CANNOT miss? Are there any hidden gems close to the most prominent tourist attractions that are worth combining into your NZ road trip? 

And what South Island road trip itinerary would I actually recommend, after years of dreaming and finally doing it for myself? 

Since we all like to travel a little differently, I’ll also give a few alternative suggestions along the way so you can use this South Island travel guide to plan YOUR dream trip!

Where is the best place to start your South Island NZ road trip?

Most South Island itineraries begin in either Christchurch or Queenstown.

International flights fly into both cities, though it’s often cheaper to fly into Christchurch. If you’re travelling in the high season, it might also be doubly advantageous to begin your trip here, as accommodation and even car rental can sometimes be pricier down in Queenstown. 

Unless you only have a few days in NZ and specifically want to see the attractions closest to Queenstown (like Milford Sound and Wanaka), either location is easy to travel to.

Both cities are easily accessible from around New Zealand, too, via internal flights. 

This specific South Island itinerary begins in Christchurch. However, you can easily switch the days of this itinerary around and start from Queenstown!

How long do you need in South Island New Zealand?

Most people would agree you need at least one week in South Island NZ. However, many people come to Queenstown for a few days of outdoor activity or do a long weekend during the ski season. 

However, unless you’re local – or perhaps flying over from Australia – a few days in NZ probably won’t feel worth the long flight!

Within a week, you’ll have a chance to see a few of the most iconic attractions (such as Milford Sound, Tekapo and Mount Cook) or stay in one location for a week and more deeply explore the local area. The latter is ideal if you plan on doing a multi-day hike.

A 10-day South Island itinerary is ideal for most full-time workers who don’t get a ton of holiday. You’ll have a bit more breathing room than those here for just a week. While you might not see some of the more underrated national parks and secondary locations, you’ll have a great chance of ticking the most famous South Island sights off your bucket list. 

2 weeks in the South Island will also give you time to tick off the main sights while also having some extra chance to do some additional sightseeing along epic places like the West Coast, Abel Tasman National Park, The Catlins area, or Kaikoura. 

A 3-week or 4-week South Island itinerary is ideal for the adventurers among you. Those who want to explore beyond the most famous tourist sights take longer hikes and have more time to stop at all those beautiful viewpoints along the way. It’s also perfect for those of us who are remote workers.

TIP: Personally, I use SafetyWing Nomad Insurance when travelling – it’s perfect for me as a remote worker. With SafetyWing, I pay my travel insurance monthly – just like my Netflix subscription – and can cancel it anytime. This meant I could quickly extend my time in NZ without worrying about my insurance policy. If you’re a spontaneous traveller or digital nomad, you can learn more or sign up for SafetyWing insurance here.

That said, no matter how long you spend on the South Island, you’ll never leave feeling like no stone was unturned. There will always be more to see and do in the South Island, waiting for you if you’re ever fortunate to return!

If you’re combining a South and North Island itinerary, you can fly internally between the two countries. However, most roadtrippers will find taking the car ferry between Picton and Wellington easier.

From Wellington, you can drive up to many beautiful North Island sights like Taupo, Tongariro (famous for the epic Tongariro Alpine Crossing hike), the coastal Coromandel, Hobbiton (or any of the great North Island LOTR locations), Auckland, Rotorua’s hot springs, and Taranaki. The ferry takes approximately 3.5 hours, but be warned that the tickets book up fast during busy times, so make sure you book it in advance. 

If you’ve already been to New Zealand and are looking to hit up some underrated locations and South Island hidden gems your second time, please see my recommendations for getting off the beaten track in South Island. Or, skip to the bottom of this post, where I give four alternative NZ road trip routes!

No matter how long your NZ road trip is, make sure you educate yourself on the driving rules for New Zealand tourists to ensure a safe trip.

South Island New Zealand road trip itinerary

If you’re reading this, I am so excited for you! South Island New Zealand, is such an exceptionally magical part of the world, and having the chance to experience it meant so much to me! 

So I hope this 10-day itinerary helps inspire you and motivates you to book this ticket. Future You (the one who’s got greying hair but is still a badass explorer at heart) will be so grateful for the stories they can share about winding through the mountain valleys, being amazed by epic fiords, and breathing in the deep, endless, unforgettable South Island scenery.

Right, that’s enough rambling. It’s time to get onto the good stuff!

CHRISTCHURCH

Since Christchurch is the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, it’s natural that many road trips start from here.

Many travellers tend to leave Christchurch soon after arriving, keen to get closer to the mountain peaks and azure lakes that NZ is famous for. And, honestly, I get it – Christchurch is a beautiful city, but there’s SO much to see in NZ! 

That said, if you have time, it’s well worth exploring the city a little deeper. Plus, if you’ve flown a long way, it will give you a chance to catch up on sleep in a cosy hotel room before heading out in a campervan!

If you have just one day in Christchurch, I recommend taking a free walking tour. Green Kiwi Tours runs excellent free walking tours in high season – next starting in November.

You’ll pass through some iconic Christchurch spots like the Bridge of Remembrance, Canterbury Museum (I went to their dinosaur exhibit, with moving model dinosaurs!), and the cathedrals while learning about the Māori and European settlers who were here long before us.  

Although early inhabitants arrived in the region between 1000 – 1250AD, the first Māori people (or iwi) to settle here did so in the 1600s. However, it was the European settlers who officially named it a city in 1850 – making it the oldest official city in New Zealand. 

With such a rich history, it’s perhaps unsurprising that Christchurch remains a cultural hub, filled with endless attractions and fantastic museums. There are incredible hikes around Port Hills and the coast for those who prefer to get out in nature.

Other things to do in Christchurch

• If you want to relax after a long flight but still see a bit of Christchurch, then a stroll through Christchurch Botanic Gardens or Hagley Park is ideal. They’re both particularly pretty in Spring or Autumn!

• Take in some gorgeous views from the Churchchurch Gondola as you ascent up Port Hills — or enjoy the stunning scenery via one of the many walking tracks.

• Go punting upon the Avon River. (If you’re British, like me, then yes, we’re still talking about New Zealand – I grew up near Stratford-upon-Avon in England and had to do a doubletake!)

• Stock up for your road trip with some local produce at Ohoka Farmers’ Market (or just head to a local supermarket like PaknSave or Countdown – it’s cheaper to shop at a big branch in Christchurch than in some small towns).

• Other top-rated attractions include Quake City, a sobering yet immersive and educational look at how the city has adapted to the devastating earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, and the International Antarctic Centre, which has a fantastic range of interactive displays.

TIP – I recommend splurging on a motel for your first 1 or 2 nights in New Zealand. The same goes for the end of your trip. Or you can stop with a local in an Airbnb – they might give you some inside tips on where to see during your South Island adventure!

Drive from Christchurch to Tekapo:

Leaving Christchurch, head south on State Highway 1 for about 91 kilometres until you reach Geraldine. Here, you will veer off onto SH 79 and drive through Fairlie and Burkes Pass before joining SH 8 at Lake Tekapo.

Distance: 180 kilometres (approx 111 miles)

Approximate drive time: 2.5 hours

LAKE TEKAPO

Once you leave Christchurch, your New Zealand South Island road trip has truly begun! And Lake Tekapo is an ideal first stop! It’s on the way from Christchurch to other fantastic NZ destinations and a superb first glimpse of South Island’s majestic landscapes.

Lake Tekapo has a flare for both the dramatic and a sort of simplicity… The backdrop of the Southern Alps looming behind the turquoise-blue waters is a hint of the mad mountain peaks to come, but walking around the shore feels so wonderfully peaceful, too. 

Best things to do in Lake Tekapo:

• Take in the stunning views of Lake Tekapo – I mean, how could you not?! Stroll down to Pines Beach or enjoy it on a longer hike – Cowans Hill Walkway or the Mount John Summit Circuit Track are both excellent.

• Visit the historic Church of the Good Shepherd, built in 1935 out of local stones (and come back at night to try your hand at astrophotography).

• Head up to Mount John Observatory. At 1029 meters above sea level and a 360-degree panoramic lookout, the views are fantastic. 
• Unwind in the hot pools at Tekapo Springs. With spa facilities, a kids’ Aqua Play Area, and three hot pools with incredible views, it’s the perfect way to take a breath in between hitting the sights. 

• Since Tekapo is situated within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, it’s an ideal location for stargazing. Book an astronomy tour if you want to know what you’re looking at!

• Enjoy Lake Tekapo from the water! You can rent a kayak or paddle-board from  Paddle Tekapo or take a thrilling jet boat tour. 

• Enjoy seasonal activities like strolling through the mesmerising lupins in Summer or ice skating in Winter.

Read more: Lake Tekapo New Zealand travel guide.

Where to stay in Tekapo:

• Campsite: With non-powered and powered sites with excellent shared facilities and unlimited WiFi, I loved my stay at Lakes Edge Holiday Park. (Yes, it really is at the edge of the lake!)
• Hostel: With floor-to-ceiling windows over the lake, budget travellers don’t have to miss out at  YHA Lake Tekapo – which also has modern rooms and great shared facilities.
• Hotel: A lakeside suite at The Mackenzie Suites will give you top-rated accommodation, but if you’re looking to treat yourself, then Grand Suites Lake Tekapo is the perfect choice for the luxury travellers among you.

Drive from Tekapo to Mount Cook:

Driving from Tekapo to Mount Cook is an incredibly scenic journey as you soar around the shoreline of Lake Pukaki and travel through stunning alpine landscapes. To get there, simply follow State Highway 8 from Tekapo before reaching the spectacular Mount Cook Road.

Distance: 100km (approx 62 miles)
Approximate drive time: 70 mins

LAKE PUKAKI

You can’t miss Lake Pukaki while driving from Tekapo to Aoraki Mount Cook. On clear days when the glacial blue waters look extra radiant, and Mount Cook towers over the lake as you drive towards it, Pukaki might even be the main event!

There are many excellent things to do in Lake Pukaki, such as the 3.7km return Pukaki Kettle Hole Track hike. But on a ten-day itinerary, you can still make the most of it by pulling into the viewing points on the main road.

One of the most famous lookouts is Peter’s Lookout (on Mount Cook Road). It was too cloudy during my first drive up to see Aoraki Mount Cook! But on my second go, it was perfectly visible and towering over Lake Pukaki in all its glory.

AORAKI MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK

For many visitors, and I might be inclined to agree, seeing Aoraki Mount Cook is one of the biggest ‘wow factors’ of any South Island road trip. 

While all of NZ is beautiful, there’s something truly magnificent about this vast, perfect, snow-capped mountain taking total dominance over the surrounding landscape. It’s no wonder that Aoraki holds spiritual significance here.

(When people ask me whether New Zealand is more beautiful than my birth country of the UK, I ALWAYS come back to Mount Cook and Fiordland. Because sure, Britain has plenty of castles and stunning landscapes, but not much in the world competes with Mount Cook!)

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 140 peaks over 2000m high, 72 glaciers, and 722 square kilometres to explore, it goes without saying that you can spend your entire South Island holiday here and still not see everything! 

But not to worry, narrow your itinerary down to a few ‘must dos’, and you’ll still be able to make the most of this incredible national park… even if you’re still left wanting more!

Things to do in Mount Cook during a South Island itinerary:

If you only have one day, you can’t go wrong with the magnificent Hooker Valley Track. It has the HIGHEST REWARD in terms of energy investment out of any hike I’ve ever done. 

The 10km hike (5km each way) has only 100m of elevation. Yet, you get unbeatable mountain views as you cross through valley boardwalks and over suspension bridges until reaching Hooker Lake – which will reflect Mount Cook pristinely in the water on a clear day. 

Other great activities in Aoraki include:

• At the Tasman Glacier viewpoint, you can look over NZ’s longest glacier during a 2.6km return walk. Tasman Lake was frozen over during my Winter South Island road trip, but you can also kayak over it during the Summer months!

• Other fantastic Aoraki hikes include the Kea Point Track (3kms along with views of Mount Cook and Mueller Glacier Lake), Mueller Hut (continue on from the Kea Point Track for a strenuous walk to an 1800m high lookout over glaciers and mountains) or take on the famous but steep Sealy Tarns Track.

Check conditions before hiking in the national park! Conditions change quickly here, and there can be an avalanche risk, especially in Winter. Ask at the Aoraki/Mount Cook visitor centre before heading out. 

• Visit the museum or planetarium at the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre – perfect for a rainy day. The famous explorer learned to climb at Mount Cook. But 

• Go stargazing within this 4267 square kilometre night sky reserve. Book a tour with a Big Sky Stargazing or just gaze up from a quiet area (campsites are perfect) on a clear night. 

• Take a scenic helicopter flight over Mount Cook and Tasman Glacier for the best views over the national park. Some helicopter flights even land on Tasman Glacier, and you can hike on it during a 3-hour heli hike adventure.

Read more: Things to do in Aoraki Mount Cook Travel Guide. 

Where to stay in Mount Cook:

• Campsite: White Horse Campground – this budget-friendly DOC campsite is located right at the beginning of iconic hikes like the Hooker Valley Track. It has no facilities other than toilets (the nearest hot showers and running water are 2.5km away in Mt Cook Village) – but I found it so convenient with the best scenery. Book White Horse Hill Campground online.
• Campsite: Near the shore of Lake Pukaki, I also stayed at Glentanner Park – probably the best option if you needed a powered site, as it’s the only fully equipped park in the area. 
• Hotel: For some local hospitality, Aoraki Mount Cook Mountain Lodge has excellent rooms for couples or families. Alternatively, the stunning Hermitage Hotel has several accommodation options and packages available. (My mate and I thought it looked like it could be the setting of a James Bond movie!)

Drive from Mount Cook to Wanaka

Distance: 205 kilometres (approx. 127 miles) 
Approximate drive time: 2 hours 20 mins (without stops)

Things to see between Mount Cook and Wanaka:

Omarama

While those on a one-week South Island itinerary might have to zoom past Omarama, those of you with longer to spare should make a stop here. Visit the towering Omarama Clay Cliffs or take a dip at Omarana Hot Tubs, one of South Island’s best hot springs.

Lindis Pass

The 60km Lindis Pass is one of the most iconic drives on any South Island road trip, beginning at Omarana and ending in Tarras. (From Tarras, it’s just 34 km to Wanaka.) 

With an elevation of 971 metres above sea level and carving through the Lindis and Ahuriri River valleys, the views from this drive are spectacular. The highest point is marked with a lookout, which is thankfully just a short ascent from the roadside car park below. 

In the years up to my road trip, I imagined seeing Lindis Pass’ warm brown rolling hills marked by tussock grasslands – just like I’d seen in the photos. But during my Winter South Island road trip, the entire pass was covered in a blanket of snow. 

So it wasn’t what I expected… but it was definitely still mesmerising!

TIP: Here’s an alternative route option for those doing a 3 to 4-week South Island itinerary. From Mount Cook, you can also cut across from Omarana to the East Coast towards Oamaru rather than continuing to Wanaka. From Oamaru, you can see the Moeraki Boulders and make the Southern Scenic Route on a Dunedin and The Catlins road trip towards Invercargill before driving back towards Milford Sound and Queensland. 

WANAKA

With superb ski grounds, much-loved New Zealand hikes, family-friendly attractions, and (of course) one very iconic tree, Wanaka is generally considered a must-do on any South Island itinerary. 

If you prefer a more tranquil setting for your nature-side stays, then set up camp at the neighbouring lake, Lake Hawae. I thought it was equally beautiful, and I loved the lookout over both lakes at ‘The Neck.’ 

Best things to do in Wanaka on your South Island itinerary:

• If you’ve been using social media for South Island inspiration, you’ve probably already seen photos of hikers enjoying the Roy’s Peak Track views. But this 16km track is famous for a reason and worth adding to your itinerary if there’s time. 

• The 10km Rob Roy Glacier Track and 4.3km Diamond Lake Loop Track are great alternatives for a shorter walk.

• If you fancy something more relaxing, why not stroll through a section of the 20-acre Wanaka Lavender Farm or head to a winery?

• Even though someone cut off the bottom branch of the iconic Wanaka tree in 2020 (booooo), it’s still an iconic South Island thing to do. So head to the shores of Lake Wanaka and grab your snap of the famous tree (or #ThatWanakaTree to photographers on Insta) with the beautiful Southern Alps. It’s a short walk from the town centre.

Are you doing your South Island road trip in Winter? Then skiing in Wanaka is a must-do for snow sports enthusiasts. Head to Cadrona Ski Resort and hit the slopes, or visit the nearby Treble Cone Ski Area. 

Drive from Wanaka to Queenstown

Distance: 68km (approx. 42 miles) via Crown Range or 111km (approx 70 miles) via State Hwy Road
Approximate drive time: Just over an hour or 1 hour 25 minutes

Points of interest on the drive from Wanaka to Queenstown:

The shorter route allows you to drive to the Crown Range Summit (which is in the middle of the drive from Wanaka to Queenstown) was one of my favourite things to do in the South Island. The views over Queenstown and beyond were spectacular. And since I visited South Island in Winter, I even got to build a snowman! (Because why not, eh?)

However, if the weather is bad, take the longer but easier option along State Hwy 6 – it’s still scenic and also passes the Kawarau Gorge, which doubled as the Anduin River in the Lord of the Rings movies.

Queenstown

Undoubtedly one of the most famous destinations in New Zealand, Queenstown is considered the adventure capital of the world. 

But even if you don’t feel like bungee jumping, jet boating, skydiving or being catapulted across Queenstown (yes, that last one really is an option!), there’s still plenty to do in this mountainside town. 

All this means Queenstown is one of the country’s most prominent tourist destinations, so be sure to book accommodation and activities early for this leg of your stay – especially if you’re visiting during the Summer, school holidays, or ski season. 

Best things to do in Queenstown on a South Island itinerary

• Take a relaxing cruise across Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw… or do the opposite and zip high-speed through the narrow canyons of Shotover River on a jetboat experience!

• Thrillseekers will have endless opportunities to get their blood pumping in Queenstown. Go ziplining at ZipTrek Encounters, freefall 60 metres on the Shotover Canyon Swing, and take on NZ’s highest bungy jump at 134m tall. 

• If you’re planning a South Island Winter itinerary, then skiing or snowboarding in Queenstown is a must. Coronet Peak & The Remarkables have excellent facilities. 

• Spot iconic LOTR movie locations, including the setting for Isengard, the Pillars of the Kings, and more. 

If you’re a Middle Earth fan, read my guide to Lord of the Rings locations in Queenstown here.

• Take the Skyline Gondola ride up to the 450m high viewing platform at Bob’s Peak for unbeatable views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu and beyond. 

• Rejuvenate with a private 60-minute soak in a cedar-lined tub with stunning views at the brilliant Onsen Hot Pools. 

• Head to the region’s best wineries in Gibbston Valley.

• Or take in the scenery from one of the many Queenstown hiking trails. Queenstown Hill (a 5km trail leading to panoramic views over the city, lake, and Remarkables) and Ben Lomond (an 11km hike with incredible views if you don’t mind the uphill climb) are excellent options. 

Read more: The five must-do unforgettable Queenstown experiences.

Where to stay in Queenstown

• Hotels: I recommend the gorgeous Quest Queenstown Apartments, as these modern studios are among the highest-rated in the city! Alternatively, Luckie Lane Homestay is a highly-rated budget hotel option.
• Budget-friendly and campervans: I stayed at Driftaway Queenstown which is one of the nicest budget-friendly holiday resorts I’ve ever stayed at, with the option of lakeside chalets, family studios, or powered sites for campervans. They have a stunning shared area with a kitchen, guest lounges, and a terrace facing the mountains and lake.
• Luxury: If you’re looking for something special, Stoneridge Estate offers 5* luxury accommodation, set among 12 acres of vineyard and water gardens, plus breathtaking lake and mountain views, an immaculate yet characterful interior, and exceptional service.

Drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound:

Distance: 288km (approx 178 km)
Approximate drive time: 3 hour 40 minutes – a long but stunningly scenic part of your NZ South Island road trip!

Points of interest on the drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound:

I personally took a very optional detour to Mavora Lakes, which is somewhat of an off-the-beaten-track spot for regular NZ roadtrippers. 

However, the famous Te Anau to Milford Sound road is the biggest highlight.

There are many beautiful stops between Te Anau and Milford Sound, and it might be one of your favourite drives of the trip. (It was for me!)

Te Anau also has its fair share of attractions, the most popular being taking a Lake Te Anau Cruise on a historic yacht, spotting a Tahake, Kaka and parakeets at the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary, or being mesmerised by the dazzling glow worms at the 12000-year-old Te Anau Glow worm caves.

TIP: After leaving Te Anau, there’s no gas station until Milford Sound, so make sure you top up beforehand!

Stops worth taking between Te Anau and Milford Sound include:

• Taking a photo on the expansive open flats of Eglinton Valley (which gave me major LOTR vibes).

• Take the 400m-return boardwalk to Mirror Lakes, which, as the name suggests, reflects the mountains behind them or wind through the mossy beech trees at Lake Gunn. 

• Stop at the viewing platform at Hollyford Valley Lookout (It’s super beautiful!) and later the Gertrude Valley Lookout.

• Pulling over at Monkey Creek for excellent views of the mountains from below was possibly my favourite stop. 

• Next, you’ll take the 1.2km Homer Tunnel right through the Darran Mountain Range at 945 metres above sea level before descending a steep winding road through Cleadau Valley before arriving at Milford Sound. 

Read more:  The Drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound Travel Guide.

MILFORD SOUND

The journey to Milford Sound might be breathtaking, but, in this case, the destination is JUST as good as the journey! 

Milford Sound is a South Island must-do, with its tranquil waters, thriving wildlife, epic waterfalls, and unbeatable mountain scenery. 

If you only have room for a couple of paid activities on your South Island itinerary, then Milford Sound should definitely be one of them. My Milford Sound Cruise absolutely lived up to my expectations… and my expectations were high!

The best way to explore the fiords is a no-brainer – you have to take a boat. A Milford Sound Cruise weaves through the valleys while your local guide points out all the best spots (so you won’t miss anything looking in the wrong but equally beautiful direction!) 

Other things to do in Milford Sound during your NZ road trip.

• You’ll see them from the cruise, but the 162m Lady Bowen Falls and postcard-perfect Mitre Peak are well worth a second look from the ground. Take the 400m Milford Sound Lookout return track to make the most of the scenery.

• Get closer to the action by kayaking on Milford Sound or hiking along the famous Routeburn Track or Key Summit Hike. 

• Take a scenic flight to see just how incredible Fiordland’s landscape is from above. You can fly from Te Anau or Queenstown. 

Where to stay in Milford Sound: 

The bad news is that there’s only one place to stay in Milford Sound. The good news is that the Milford Sound Lodge accommodation is incredible!

You can stay in chalets, well-appointed towards the river or mountains to make the most of the scenery and tuck into a delicious meal at the onsite restaurant Pio Pio.

Alternatively, they also have a powered campsite named the Rainforest Campervan Park! I enjoyed my stay here: excellent facilities and amazing forest views with the cheeky mountains saying peekaboo behind the trees.

Read more: Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise: travel tips and review!

Finishing or continuing your South Island road trip:

Drive from Milford Sound to Queenstown, Christchurch or Wanaka (if you’re circling back to finish a shorter 1-2 week South Island road trip)

Distance: as stated above.

Alternatively, from Wanaka, continue towards Haast in Westland National Park (add on the beautiful West Coast if you’re on a 3-4 week South Island road trip)

Distance: 143 km (approx. 89 miles)
Approximate drive time: 2 hours)

Points of interest on the drive from Wanaka to Haast:

• Hike through beech woodland, across a swing bridge over Makarora, and a well-maintained boardwalk, and you’ll reach the dazzling blue pools at the end of the Blue Pools Track
• Take the 1.5km return track to the viewing platform at the Haast Pass Lookout 
• It’s a super easy 10-minute return walk to Fantail Falls, a 23-metre waterfall cascading over rocks and forest and into the river below. 
• And don’t miss Thunder Creek Falls – they’re 98 meters tall and well worth the 5-minute walk!

GLACIER COUNTRY (WEST COAST)

Exploring the wild West Coast was a highlight of my South Island New Zealand itinerary!

With rugged coastlines and lush rainforest shoulder-to-shoulder with snow-capped mountains, the whole region felt utterly unique. 

Not to mention that the West Coast is also home to two of NZ’s most iconic glaciers.

Things to do in Glacier Country:

• Before you reach the glaciers, stop at Bruce Bay or Knights Point Lookout to make the most of the coastal views.

• The reflective Lake Matheson is another West Coast must-do. It’s just a 45-minute loop walk. And on a clear day, you’ll get unforgettable photos of the Southern Alps reflecting in the lake! (I wasn’t so lucky, but I still loved the walk!)

• Fox Glacier is the longest in NZ, at 13km. It falls 2500 metres from where it begins below Mount Cook before its end point within the rainforest. You can get up close on a guided walk, take a helicopter tour or scenic flight, or walk along the river valley – the 6.8km South Side Walk has multiple vantage points across the glacier. 

• Personally, I opted for the free roadside view of Fox Glacier from Cook Flat Road on the way to Lake Matheson! It’s far away, but still a fascinating glimpse into the beauty of New Zealand’s frozen rivers for those short on time. 

• Franz Josef Glacier is best seen from the 5.4km Franz Josef Glacier Walk, but expect a steep climb at the end to the lookout and check weather conditions in advance. Otherwise, the Sentinel Rock Walk is just a 900-metre stroll from the car park, and you can enjoy the glaciers from a distance. (This is the best option during Winter as it tends to stay open all year around.)

Read more: West Coast New Zealand travel guide

HOKITIKA (WEST COAST)

A visit to Hokitika is one of the most iconic things to do on the South Island, famous for the sparkling blue waters of Hokitika Gorge.

Set within 260 acres, the Hokitika Scenic Reserve is the area’s highlight, with its picturesque mix of stunning rainforests, sparkling rivers, and mountains in the background.

Things to do in Hokitika during a South Island New Zealand road trip itinerary include:

• The circular Hokitika Gorge Walk is only 2km (1.3 miles), but it sure does pack a punch. With a forested boardwalk, photogenic suspension bridges, and several viewing platforms over the vivid milky blue Hokitika River, you’d regret not adding this to any two-week South Island itinerary.

• Lake Kaniere Scenic Reserve is an excellent place for camping, lovely bush walks, and don’t miss the multi-tier Dorothy Falls – it’s just a 2-minute walk from the nearest car park.

• Enjoy your morning coffee beside Hokitika Beach, see New Zealand’s iconic national flightless bird at the National Kiwi Centre Hokitika or spot sparkling glow worms at the Glow Worm Dell.

• Explore the South Island from the treetops on the West Coast Treetop Walk; 450 metres of pathways wind through the rainforest canopy at 20 metres above the ground. If that’s not high enough, take on the 47-metre-tall Hokitika Tower for excellent views.

Read more: Hokitika Gorge Walk Guide

ARTHUR’S PASS (West Coast to Christchurch)

The Arthurs Pass drive is one of the best-known roads in South Island, reaching an altitude of 739 metres above sea level. The mountain pass connects Christchurch to the West Coast, so despite having some jaw-dropping high-altitude views, it’s more than just a scenic drive but a handy one too. 

Things to see along Arthurs Pass:

• Stay overnight in Arthur’s Pass village and enjoy short walks – I recommend checking out the Avalanche Creek Waterfall path or Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall (the latter falls are 131 metres high and less than 2km return from the village)
• For those of you who prefer longer hikes, there’s plenty to choose from in Arthur’s Pass National Pass, including the 6km Bealey Spur Track or 6.8km Arthur’s Pass trail, which has fab views over Bridal Veil Falls and the Alps. 
• Other outdoor activities include skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing, or going on an underground adventure through Cave Stream scenic reserve. 
• Don’t miss Castle Hill Conservation Area, a unique set of limestone rock formations. The short footpath that weaves through the standing stones is right on the side of the road. 
• Also, look out for Otira Viaduct – a 400-metre-long bridge you’ll pass on your journey. 

Alternative routes for your New Zealand South Island road trip:

Lewis Pass

How to fit Lewis Pass into your road trip:

Lewis Pass works well as an alternative route to Christchurch from the West Coast; this can be an alternative to Arthurs Pass. 

(Or, as an addition to Arthus Pass, if you are adding on the stunning national parks at the Northern tip of the South Island like Abel Tasman. You should have time to do this if you are doing a 3-week or month South Island itinerary.)

Things to see along Lewis Pass:

After Hokitika, continue towards Greymouth, once one of the country’s most famous mining towns. For those travelling with kids, the Shantytown Heritage Park is a fun way to step back in time and experience NZ during the gold rush. Greymouth is also where Lewis Pass begins. 

Mariua Hot Springs. With misty mountains, a riverside campground or modern hotel rooms with wellness retreat vibes, and absolutely beautiful hot springs, it ended up being one of my favourite places in the South Island – and the perfect way to warm up during my Winter road trip!

Read more: Maruia Springs and things to do along Lewis Pass.

Abel Tasman National Park 

If you continue up the West Coast of the South Island, you will find some incredible national parks at the northern tip of the island. These include Paparoa, Kahurangi, and Abel Tasman National Parks. 

How to add the national parks to your road trip:

From Abel Tasman, you can:

• Loop back to Greymouth and take the Lewis Pass or Arthus Pass back to Christchurch. 
• Continue to Nelson and then Picton, where you can take the ferry to the North Island to extend your NZ road trip.  
• Continue to Nelson, Blenheim, and take the Northeast coast back to Christchurch via Kaikoura.

Abel Tasman National Park is known for its absolutely stunning beaches (single handedly putting NZ high at the top of the best coastlines in the world) and outdoor activities, from water sports to hiking and wildlife conservation. 

Kaikoura

Wildlife lovers will likely be keen to add Kaikoura to their South Island itinerary, as it is best known for its marine life. Visit Kaikoura for your best chance of seeing whales, seals, and other marine and birdlife during your South Island road trip. 

How to add Kaikoura to your road trip: 

The seaside town is 2.5 hours North of Christchurch, so it’s likely too big a detour for those who only have one week or ten days in the South Island. However, if you have longer, it might be worth the trip – especially if you’re already coming back to Christchurch via Picton (where the North Island ferry comes in) or Abel Tasman National Park. 

What to take on your South Island road trip

• Sleeping items. You might just need pyjamas, but this could also include a tent, sleeping bag, pillows, earplugs, or sleeping mask – especially if you’re travelling in Winter

• Camping cutlery and containers or beeswax wrappers to store food or snacks

• Good shoes for walking –  whether that’s walking sandals, sneakers, or some proper hiking boots if you plan to take on any day hikes

• Sunscreen, a sunhat in shades (even in Winter, you need shades!

• A reusable water bottle (I use one from Water to Go)

• Travel Insurance – I use this travel nomad insurance from SafetyWing.

I hope this blog post helps you plan your dream South Island New Zealand road trip itinerary. Any questions, let me know. I hope you have a fantastic time in New Zealand!