New Zealand’s spectacular South Island is on the bucket list of many people right around the world. I’ve taken many trips over the pond to visit what is one of my favourite parts of the world and I want you to discover it for yourself too!
So I’ve put together this two week New Zealand South Island road trip itinerary that is perfect for a first timer to the region.
This road trip itinerary doesn’t cover everything New Zealand’s South Island has to offer, that would be impossible to fit into a two week vacation. But what it does offer, is an introduction to the absolutely best.
From snow peaked mountains, rugged coastline, seemingly never-ending fjords and adventure to boot. New Zealand’s South Island is a destination for everyone.
I hope this road trip itinerary helps get you excited about a trip to one of the worlds most utterly beautiful regions.
Two Week New Zealand South Island Road Trip Itinerary
Day 1 – Christchurch
Arrive in Christchurch early in the morning, or better yet, the evening before to really maximise your time.
Christchurch is rising from the rubble of the devastating 2011 earthquakes and turning into one of the world’s most creative cities. There is still a lot of construction going on (and there will be for some time) but ‘The Garden City’ is well and truly open for business with lots to offer visitors.
What to See & Do in Christchurch
- Christchurch Botanic Gardens – This is the biggest green space in the city centre. See colourful flower beds, massive shady trees, duck ponds and green houses containing specialist plant species. Take a punt along the river Avon or a walk on the long winding gravel paths that meander through the park.
- Cathedral Square – Cathedral Square has been the heart of Christchurch since the mid 1900’s and continues to be just that despite the earthquake devastation. Visit the square to see what remains of the Christchurch Cathedral, learn more about the cathedrals history and future in the temporary viewing hut and pay your respects at a memorial made of hundreds of pebbles held inside a wire frame. Markets and festivals are also held here through the year.
- Cardboard Cathedral – The new symbol of this developing creative city, the Cardboard Cathedral, opened in 2013 as a temporary church in place of the badly damaged ChristChurch Cathedral. What makes this one of the most unusual churches in the world, is that it’s partly made of strong cardboard.
- Christchurch Gondola – For the most spectacular views, check out the Christchurch Gondola. Soar above the mountains for views of snow capped peaks. At the top you can explore tunnels, take a hike and learn more about the history of the peak. (Book your ticket in advance to avoid the queues!)
- Re:Start Mall – The place to be now in the city centre is the Re:Start Mall which changes its location as construction around the city happens. After the earthquake the city was looking for a quick and simple way to get small shop owners and shoppers back into the CBD while the major redevelopment goes on. What they came up with, a mall made of shipping containers, was brilliant and made headlines all over the world for its playful creativeness.
Book a Hop-on-Hop-off Vintage Tram tour to get orientated.
Where to Stay in Christchurch
Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.
Budget
Haka Lodge
This lodge offers a choice of shared and private accommodation, situated just 10 minutes’ drive from Christchurch city centre. Free Wi-Fi and access to shared kitchen and living room is available to all guests.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Mid Range
Quest Christchurch Serviced Apartments
Just a 3 minute walk from Cathedral Square, Quest offers studio, 1, 2and 3 bedroom apartments most with fully equipped kitchen and private balcony. Continental breakfast and parking are available upon request.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Luxury
The George
Overlooking Hagley Park, The George is a luxurious 5-star boutique hotel. with spacious rooms featuring contemporary furnishings and modern bathrooms.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
Day 2 to 3 – Lake Tekapo/Mt Cook
Drive Time: 3 hours from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
Leave Christchurch early on day two and drive towards Lake Tekapo and Mt Cook. Spend the rest of day 2 exploring the region and continue your sightseeing on day 3.
One of the most picture perfect regions of New Zealand, the Mackenzie Basin, home to Lake Tekapo and Mt Cook Village, lies roughly in the centre of the South Island between the sprawling plains of Canterbury and the towering mountains of the Southern Alps.
What to See & Do in Lake Tekapo/Mt Cook
- Lake Tekapo – One of New Zealand’s most photographed lakes because of its powdery blue colour on a blue sky day and of the perfectly positioned Church of the Good Shepherd that lies on the southern edge of the lake. This tiny church features an altar window that frames stunning views of the lake and mountains.
- Lake Pukaki – Probably one of the most underrated of all the lakes on New Zealand’s South Island. As you drive over the rise on the road from Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki appears out of nowhere and stuns drivers to instantly slow. I found the colour of Lake Pukaki to be more amazing than Lake Tekapo but it’s not just the colour that makes this lake so impressive, at the far north of the lake is New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Mt Cook, in all its glory.
- Aoraki Mt Cook Village – The drive out to see New Zealand’s highest peak is quite possibly one of the best experiences to be had in New Zealand. It offers uninterrupted views of Mt Cook as it winds along Lake Pukaki. The village itself is home to walks (more on them below) and The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre which offers a series of 2D, 3D and a Digital Dome Planetarium shows.
- Walks – There are dozens of walks you can do in the region like the four-hour Hooker Track which crosses three swing bridges, offers great views from the Alpine memorial and ends at the glacier lake with amazing views of Aoraki Mt Cook, the Hooker Glacier and the Southern Alps. Or why not summit Mt John for spectacular 360 degree views of the region.
- View the Night Sky – The Mackenzie Basin is one of the darkest places on earth, giving it the status of being a Dark Sky Reserve. This means that there is very little light pollution which allows for some incredible star-gazing. If you move away from the towns in the region on a clear night you will see more stars than you could ever imaged. But for real star gazers, you’ll want to head up to the Mt John Observatory in Tekapo to make the most of it.
Where to Stay in Lake Tekapo/Mt Cook
Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.
Budget
Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Lodge
Accommodation options include studios, apartments and bungalows. Each offers a TV and an outdoor seating area. Bed linen is provided. Some rooms offer a private bathroom. Lakefront location!
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Mid Range
Three Rivers Lodge
Guest rooms offer comfortable beds and private bathrooms. Rooms are modern with heated floors. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Located in the centre of town.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Luxury
Lake Tekapo Lodge
Boasting stunning mountain and lake views. Rooms are plush. The guest lounge features fireplace, library and tea/coffee-making facilities. Guests have free use of mountain bikes to explore the area.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
Day 4 to 5 – Fiordland
Drive Time: 5 hours from Tekapo to Te Anau
Make and early start for the spectacular Fiordland region on day 4. There’s lots of stunning scenery along the way so allow plenty of time for photo stops. Spend the rest of the day in Te Anau. On day 5 I recommend day tripping or taking a tour to incredible Milford Sound.
Fiordland is one of the worlds greatest wilderness regions with stunning natural features that show the earth’s evolutionary history. Te Anau, on the edge of the region is a great base for exploring the most accessible of the fjords, Milford Sound.
What to See & Do in Fiordland
- Milford Sound – The two-hour journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound itself is worth the effort but the cruise is out of this world incredible. It takes you past and up close to towering peaks, plummeting waterfalls and interesting wildlife. To get there you can self drive but to really enjoy the experience, I recommend a small group guided tour like this.
- Te Anau Glow Worm Caves – On the western shore of Lake Te Anau you’ll find a cave system home to millions of glowing worms. You can tour the cave with a guide from Te Anau which includes a cruise on the lake to get to the remote location. Inside the cave are gushing water flows and the opportunity to spend a few minutes in total darkness with these unusual creatures.
Where to Stay in Fiordland
Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.
Budget
Te Anau Top 10 Holiday Park
Located next to Lake Te Anau, facilities in the part include a hot tub and BBQ facilities. Accommodation options include chalets, studios and self-contained apartments. Some feature a fully equipped kitchen.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Mid Range
Bella Vista Motel Te Anau
Motel rooms feature heating, electric blankets and free WiFi internet. Guests have access to a barbecue area and laundry facilities. Located just minutes’ walk from the lake.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Luxury
Fiordland Lodge
This luxurious lodge overlooks Lake Te Anau and the surrounding mountains. The comfortable rooms come with private balconies and luxurious bathrooms. Selected rooms come with spa bathtubs.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
Backpacking New Zealand on a Budget on The Broke Backpacker
Day 6 to 7 – Queenstown
Drive Time: 2 hours from Te Anau to Queenstown
Make an early start to give yourself plenty of time to start exploring Queenstown. On day 7 you’ll find lots to keep you busy in and around this big resort town.
A mecca for those who love being outdoors and adrenaline pumping activities, Queenstown is the countries biggest resort town with something fun going on all year round. It’s also set in a pretty stunning location on Lake Wakatipu, flanked by The Remarkables, one of the country’s most spectacular mountain ranges.
What to See & Do in Queenstown
- Adrenalin Pumping Action – As the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown is home to dozens of heart pumping activities that will satisfy your inner adrenaline junkie. Try your hand at everything from bungy jumping, the canyon swing, jet boating, white water rafting, canyoning, paragliding, or sky diving.
- Drive to Glenorchy – Any dedicated LOTR fan will have heard of Glenorchy as one of the main filming locations for the movie. But even if you’re not a die-hard you can still enjoy this drive, said to be one of the most scenic in all of New Zealand. It takes about 40 minutes and follows Lake Wakatipu, twisting and turning around the lakes edge. (Or sit back and let someone else do the driving on a half day tour of Glenorchy and Lake Wakatipu)
- Visit Arrowtown – Just a short 25 minute drive from Queenstown is gorgeous little Arrowtown. This historic gold mining town has over 60 historic buildings still standing, some of which can be seen on a walk down the charming main street which is now lined with cafes and local artisan stores. Venture away from the main street towards the river to see the Historic Chinese Settlement, which was where the prospecting Chinese settled during the 1860’s gold rush.
- Central Otago Wine Tasting – Unless you’ve decided to add extra time in Queenstown, a day trip to actually visit the wineries of the region may not be possible. But don’t worry, you can taste many of the regions best wines, right in the heart of Queenstown at The Winery. Grab a tasting card and a glass to help yourself to a taste of red, white, sparkling and spirits from Central Otago and beyond. (Have time for a wine tour? Check out this half day tour or this full day tour.)
- Skyline Gondola – For the best views from above in Queenstown, take a ride on the Skyline Gondola. The gondola glides up Bob’s Peak offering stunning views of the town, the Remarkables mountains and Lake Wakatipu. (Skip the queues and book your gondola ride ahead of time. This ticket also includes an exhilarating luge ride back down!)
Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise – views don’t come more stunning than on this cruise.
Shotover Jet – scoot through the Shotover Canyon on this exhilarating a jet boat ride.
Lord of the Rings Tour – diehard fans will love this full-day tour that takes in locations made famous from the movies.
Where to Stay in Queenstown
Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.
Budget
Absoloot Value Accommodation
Located on the lakefront in the centre of Queenstown, Absoloot offers private rooms and dormitories, all with private bathrooms. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi as well as access to a communal kitchen and laundry.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Mid Range
Turner Heights Townhouses
Located just a 2-minute walk from the heart of town, these apartments include free Wi-Fi and cooking facilities. Most apartments offer stunning views of the lake and mountains; some have private spa.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Luxury
Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa
Located in the heart of town, Sofitel Queenstown offers luxurious rooms featuring marble bathrooms with French amenities. The rooms boast under-floor heating, an espresso machine, LCD TV and DVD player.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
Day 8 – Wanaka
Drive Time: Just over one hour from Queenstown to Wanaka.
It’s only a short drive to Wanaka from Queenstown but I still recommend making an early start so you can make the most of your day exploring Wanaka.
One of the most beautiful towns and lakes in New Zealand, Wanaka and it’s lake of the same name, is a year round outdoor destination. In the warmer months enjoy some of the country’s best walks and during the winter, ski at some of the Southern Alps best resorts.
What to See & Do in Wanaka
- Mt Aspiring National Park – Enjoy a range of walks to suit all fitness levels from two hours to two weeks. One of the most popular is the Rob Roy Glacier Track, a spectacular 3-4 hour, 10 km walk that takes in alpine scenery, snow fields, glaciers, sheer rock cliffs and waterfalls.
- Explore the Lake – There are a few different ways you can enjoy Lake Wanaka either on land or on the water. From the town there’s a walk/bike track that leads in both directions around to certain points of the lake. Or if you prefer to see it on the water, you can hire a kayak, take a guided boat tour or speed through it on a jet boat.
- Roy’s Peak – For the best view from above of Wanaka, a hike up Roy’s Peak is a must. It is a 5-6 hour return 16 km walk that takes you to the 1,578 m peak on a steep but relatively easy climb.
- Fun in the Snow – During the cooler months you’ll find two of New Zealand’s finest ski fields within easy reach of Wanaka. Treble Cone and Cardrona Alpine Resort are just 20 minutes drive away, and offer ski and snowboarding facilities to all skill levels.
Lake Wanaka Cruise – see the lake form the water with a stop on Stevensons Island for a nature walk.
Half-Day Kayak Tour – paddle your way around one of the most stunning lakes on the planet.
Where to Stay in Wanaka
Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.
Budget
YHA Wanaka
This hostel features an open-plan lounge/dining area with log fire and views of the Alps and lake. Choose to stay in lively a dormitory or in the comfort of your own private room with en-suite.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Mid Range
The Moorings Hotel & Apartments
Lakeside accommodation with views of the mountains just minutes’ walk to the town centre. All rooms feature under-floor-heating, en suite bathroom, a lounge area and cooking facilities.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Luxury
Wanaka Springs Lodge
Just 5 minutes’ from the town centre. Facilities include spa, lounge and a large patio overlooking the mountains. Handmade wooden furniture and rich colourful decor make all accommodation a special place.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
Day 9 to 10 – Franz Josef
Drive Time: 3.5 hours from Wanaka to Franz Josef
The drive from Wanaka to Franz Josef is one of the South Island’s best drives so give yourself plenty of time to make stops at waterfalls, lookouts and the amazing Blue Pools. On day 10 you’ll have plenty of time to explore a lot of Glacier Country’s highlights.
Don’t miss out on visiting the glaciers of Glacier Country before they disappear! You see, the glaciers are melting at an increasingly fast rate so they won’t be around forever. Basing yourself in the thriving little resort town of Franz Josef gives you easy access to everything the region has to offer.
What to See & Do in Franz Josef
- Explore the Glaciers – There are two ancient glaciers in the region for visitors to explore, Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier. Anyone can take a flat, easy walk to get close to each of them in just over an hour. Or for something a bit more adventurous, why not climb aboard a helicopter to soar above them and even land and walk on them.
- Lake Matheson – This picture perfect lake offers views of Mt Cook and on a clear, calm day, the perfect reflection of it too. The walk around the lake takes about one and half hours with lots of places to stop and taking in the view along the way.
- Glacier Hot Pools – After a day hiking on glaciers you’ll need a place to go and help your muscles to relax. The Glacier Hot Pools is just the place! Surrounded by rainforest, the pools are fed by the waters of Franz Josef Glacier, or Ka Roimata o Hinehukatere in Māori. The legend of Hgai Tahu (a local Māori tribe) says that these waters are the tears of aroha, meaning love, which were frozen by the gods creating the Franz Josef Glacier.
Where to Stay in Franz Josef
Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.
Budget
YHA Franz Josef
Features a range of rooms from private rooms with private bathroom to dorms with shared bathrooms. Facilities include a fully equipped shared kitchen, a guest lounge, a pool table, BBQ area and a sauna.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Mid Range
The Terrace
The Terrace offers free WiFi and views of snow-capped mountains from the grounds, and some rooms. Choose from studio rooms and self-contained apartments. Enjoy the on-site restaurant.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Luxury
Te Waonui Forest Retreat
Surrounded by natural rainforest, this retreat is an easy walk to the main street of town. Guests enjoy free WiFi and luxuriously appointed rooms which include organic cotton bedding and large private bathrooms.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
Day 11 to 12 – Nelson/Abel Tasman
Drive Time: 6 hours from Franz Josef to Nelson along the West Coast
Day 11 is the longest drive day of the trip but don’t worry, it’s another spectacular one. Make sure you follow the wild west coast all the way up to Punakaiki for the best views. On day 12 head out to Abel Tasman National Park for a day of adventure.
Nelson is the perfect place to base yourself for exploring one of the South Island’s best kept secrets, Abel Tasman National Park. Home to pristine golden sand beaches and excellent walks, this part of the country should be on everyone’s to-see list.
What to See & Do
- Day Trip to Abel Tasman National Park – With no road access to the park, your only options for exploring Abel Tasman are on foot, cruise or kayak. There are a bunch of tours available that combine these things for a full day exploring this stunning national park. Check out this tour for a combine cruise and hike, or this tour if you’d prefer just to cruise.
Where to Stay in Nelson
Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.
Budget
YHA Nelson by Accents
Choose between private and dormitory rooms, with access to shared bathroom facilities. Secure lockers, luggage storage, free WiFi, kitchen, spacious dining area and a sunny garden with a courtyard BBQ.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Mid Range
Harbourside Lodge
Located on the Port Nelson Marina, enjoy free WiFi and parking. All motel style accommodation features a satellite TV, a toaster, tea and coffee-making facilities and a fridge. Some with a private balcony.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Luxury
The Sails Nelson
Luxurious accommodation with free Wi-Fi, floor-to-ceiling windows and a private balcony. Rooms offer, fully equipped kitchens, a lounge area with TV, a Blu-ray player and an iPod docking station.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
Epic 10 Day New Zealand and Australia Itineraryon Flirting with the Globe
Day 13 to 14 – Kaikoura
Drive Time: 3 hours from Nelson to Kaikoura
IMPORTANT NOTE: In November 2016, an earthquake caused significant damage to the road between Picton and Christchurch around Kaikoura which closed the road. Works have been ongoing to open the road and in February 2018 the works were completed and the road re-opened for day time travel. Travel during the night will also be opening up in April 2018. For the most up-to-date information before you travel, check out the New Zealand Transport Agency website.
Day 13 is another easy drive day with lots to see and experience along the way. Stop by the Marlborough Wine region and enjoy the spectacular drive south along the Kaikoura coast.
The seaside town of Kaikoura sits on a big wide open bay that is home to countless species of marine life and flanked with towering snow-capped mountains and rolling green hills. Sounds like paradise to me!
What to See & Do in Kaikoura
- Peninsula Lookout – The first place you should head when arriving in town, this lookout provides the best views of the bay and mountains. I guarantee the view will take your breath away.
- Point Kean Seal Colony – At Point Kean, just a few minutes drive from town, you’ll find a colony of seals that you can get up close (but not too close!) to in their natural environment. As soon as you step out of the car you’ll see the seals lazing on the rocks, soaking up the sun. On my visit we saw a few dozen including some young ones playing in a natural rock pool.
- Ohau Stream – From May until October, head just 15 minutes north of Kaikoura to visit the Ohau Stream to see seal pups playing in the stream and under the waterfall. These playful and shy little creatures are left here by their mothers for a few months to play with the other pups while they grow.
- Whale & Dolphin Cruises – The bay is home to an array of marine life all year round. Your best chance at seeing them up close is on a cruise and there are cruises that run daily all year round. Sperm Whales live in the bay year round and Kaikoura is one of only three places in the world where you can see them up close. A tour will also give you the chance to swim with the resident Dusky Dolphins.
Where to Stay in Kaikoura
Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.
Budget
Kaikoura Top 10 Holiday Park
This park features a heated swimming pool, spa and BBQ area. Accommodation includes cabins and self-contained units, most with air conditioning. Some offer a fully equipped kitchen.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Mid Range
Quality Suites Kaikoura
Offers views of the Kaikoura Ranges from each room. Rooms features modern bathrooms with under-floor heating, free WiFi, satellite TV and some rooms include a large living area and kitchenette.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Luxury
The Hamptons
The Hamptons offers free WiFi and breakfast in a quiet, seaside location. Luxurious rooms feature a patio, smart TV, air-conditioning, a sofa, refrigerator and tea/coffee-making facilities.
Check availability, prices and book this hotel
Or why not book an Airbnb stay. Use this link to get up to $45AUD off.
End your trip back in Christchurch where you’ll find the biggest range of International flight departures on the South Island.
Car Hire
If you follow this trip to a tee you’ll be driving over 2,000 km, so you’ll want a vehicle that is comfortable for both driver and passengers, plus one that has plenty of space for your luggage.
New Zealand’s terrain is very mountainous so hiring a vehicle with a bit of power will make the driving experience easier too.
For all my car hire bookings I use and recommend Expedia. I’ve found they offer the most comparable prices, let you search and compare multiple car hire companies and they have a great customer service team who can help if you come into any unexpected troubles.
Got More Than Two Weeks?
There is so much more to New Zealand’s South Island than the places mentioned in the above itinerary. If you have more than two weeks to explore this incredible part of the world, here are a few extra stops I think you should consider:
- Dunedin – Home to some of New Zealand’s best architecture and a great place to base yourself for exploring the stunning coast just north of the city.
- The Catlins – Love the outdoors? Then you’ll love The Catlins! The region offers walks for all abilities, stunning coastal and rural scenery and quaint little villages.
- Stewart Island – Stunning seascapes, lots of wildlife and a slower pace of life are just a few of the draw cards for visiting this island located off the south coast of the South Island.
- Marlborough – From cruising the untouched sound to sipping some of the world’s best wine, Marlborough isn’t just another pretty place to pass through, it’s worth some time if you can afford it as there are many things to do there.
- Punakaiki – This itinerary actually takes you through Punakaiki but I think that if you have time, it is a place well worth some extra time. It is home to some of the best coastal walks and natural features you’ll find in New Zealand.
And don’t forget that you can also spend extra time in any of the places mentioned in this itinerary. All of them have lots to offer.
Three Week New Zealand South Island Itinerary on Backstreet Nomad
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Over to you!
Which part of New Zealand’s South Island are you most excited to visit?
Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.
Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.
New Zealand is My Happy Place …
I love it so much .
Good itinerary and very useful 🙂
Thanks Rohini. It is my happy place too!
Great post! What was your highlight? Mine was Mount Cook or Abel Tasman National Park!
Thanks Abbi. Probably the drive out from Tekapo to Mt Cook Village. But really everything I have seen of New Zealand I have loved.
Hi Jen. May I know which route you took from Tekapo to Mt Cook Village? Is it direct route (1h 34min as showed in google map) or the one through Lake Pukaki?
Yes Sathyendra, I travelled there direct from Tekapo and the drive as about 1.5 hours so that sounds right to me.
hi your travel planning was cool and nice i am planning for new zealand it is a wonderful place thanks for sharing to nice experiences…keep posting
Thanks!
Have been to NZ more than once previously …. Two active seniors want an expert to recommend route, accom. etc.,etc. Last 2 times we rented a camper van….but not this time !! We do not want to start a dialogue via social media. We don’t do it for anyone including g’kids. We’re thinking 23+-days in NZ. currently we envision arriving Feb. 1, and departing the 24,2019.
We did a 23 day NI spring(yours) self-directed garden tour in 2017 that I planned. Mostly east side of island from Auk. to Wel.and back. Leisurely 36 to 40 gardens. So I wish a break from getting totally engrossed finding accom., etc., etc.,…. Jim
Hi Jim,
This itinerary should help you start to piece together the bits and pieces you need for your trip to NZ. If you would like to ask any specific questions about my suggestions, please feel free to email me at jen@thetrustedtraveller.com
thank you for this itinerary. planning to go to South NZ in 2021 🙂
Hi Jen,
Looking to take my future wife over for our honeymoon and we will both be first timers, planning on hiring a motor home and doing a 7/8 day travel from Christchurch to Queenstown.
My question is what areas would you recommend for half the time, should i go north or south from Christchurch??
Hi Stephen,
It depends on what you guys are into. There are some great hikes south and wineries and food north. If I personally had to pick, it would be south. Milford Sound the Catlins are both stunning. The coastline south of Christchurch is beautiful too, almost as good as the west coast.
Hope you have a lovely honeymoon.
Cheers
Jen
Hi Jen. Thanks for this incredibly useful article. One question though … we only have 13 nights – and we are not really into hiking or the adrenalin rush stuff. Could we do the same itinerary and miss out staying in Queenstown?
Looking forward to hearing your advice
Catherine
Hi Catherine,
Sure you can take out a night from Queenstown, but check it out on your way through, it is a beautiful place and not just for those who like adrenalin sports.
Cheer
Jen
Thank you so much for your fantastic free guide. My husband and I had 18 days so we stretched the time out to suit us. It was such an adventure through this amazing island. There are surprises around nearly every bend. We visited Mt Lyford on our way back to Christchurch and it was worth it. Only place we missed was Dunedin but Mt Cook was worth it. We have done this trip in a country that has bearable temperatures in summer as opposed to sweltering in Oz at this time of the year. Thanks again.
So great to hear!
Hi Jen!
Thanks for the elaborate information!
I have just 8 nights and as such I am confused which places to include and which ones to leave. Can you please help me with that
Hi Rajeev,
That would depend entirely on what your interests are. If you like extreme sports don’t miss Queenstown. If you like hikes don’t miss the west coast. I’d need to know more about what you like to do on holiday to make some more firm suggestions.
Cheers
Jen
Hi Jen, Wonderful Itinery. I have a question. Which part of the year you travelled? I am thinking of doing this in late April to May. Would the drive be easy or would it be snowing? I am traveling with my wife and two kids.
Hi Ketan,
I have travelled around the south island at all times of the year. The roads in the snowy season are well maintained and you shouldn’t have a problem getting around. Unlikely you will encounter much snow at that time of the year anyway. Maybe a few early season falls.
Cheers
Jen
You briefly mentioned the Punakaiki Rocks. This is a great attraction on the West Coast with a nice easy walk (about an hour in total from start to finish) that shouldn’t be missed. Three of us recently did a super-quick one week tour of the South Island following basically the same route you suggested but in reverse and starting and finishing at Picton. Because of time restraints we had to miss Nelson and Milford Sound / Fiordland but went to Wanaka and Queenstown.
The Punakaiki Rocks are a natural wonder (geologists are still unsure exactly how they were formed) and well worth viewing. As well, to do it justice and if time allows, I suggest spending a minimum of at least two or three days on the West Coast – the scenery is amazing especially when you take the time to go off the main road to signposted attractions such as waterfalls, lakes, and beaches.
Thanks for your recommendations Ken.
Hi Jen
Thanks for your well planned itinerary, I do pick up few good idea for my trip for this Nov. I hv 2 child to go along for this trip and wonder any other area would also good for family with kids. Appreciated for your advise.
Jean
Hi Jen,
Your itinerary looks lovely! My husband and I (from Singapore) are planning to drive out in July. We’ve only got 12 full days though, looking at either kaikoura or nelson, but not both. What would you recommend?
Hi Jen,
We are planning a self-drive 10 days trip to the South Island (NZ).
From your ‘Two weeks Road trip’ itinerary schedule, all those places recommended were perfect.
For a 10 days trip (Christchurch roundtrip), what would you suggest the places to visit ? Thanks.
Regards,
KL
Hi Jen, We would like to add in Dunedin. Which would be the best way to go and do you think 3 nights in each place is ok.
Bye Kim
Hi Jen, looks like a great itinerary, thanks for sharing! Would you recommend the same with two young kids? 4 and 1.5y, is there much to do for such young ones? Thanks, Reka 🙂
Hi Jen! This is super helpful! I am going in April for 2 weeks for my 40th birthday. The Marlborough wine country is high on my list-any suggestion to edit this itinerary to include that? Thank you!! -Deanna (San Diego, CA)
Hi,
I am basing my South Island trip next month (13-26/10), very much on your suggested itinerary (renting a self contained campervan). Thank you.
I have been going through various websites to check out ticket prices for various attractions – Milford Sound cruise, Queenstown Jet Boat, etc – there seems to be some differences in prices and packages (comparing Get Your Guide, Southern Discoveries, Everything Queenstown, Viator), but I also noted that you used GYG for a number of references to tours. Is GYG the better place to book, in terms of price, reliability, etc? Any other websites you would recommend?
Many thanks
Great articel. Do you recommend doing same trip with m parents who are around 60year old ? or would you suggest knocking off some places and do some north island for holistic expericne of newzeland?
Hi Jen,
Thank you for such an informative post! We are visiting Franz Josef Glacier in December. Is it worth taking a scenic flight to see the glaciers or will the valley walk take us close enough to see the glaciers?
Hi Jen,
I intend to hire a car and travel alone in the South Island. Is it easy and safe? Also, are parking to locations you suggested available?
Many thanks!
Hi – Great guide that I’m planning to follow for our trip to NZ in March, but I was wondering if we would miss anything from doing this route in reverse?
An activity I want to do is fully booked but would be OK if we went backwards?
Thanks 🙂