Two Week New Zealand South Island Road Trip Itinerary

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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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!)

 

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.

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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.

 

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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End your trip back in Christchurch where you’ll find the biggest range of International flight departures on the South Island.

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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.

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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.

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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.