New Zealand’s South Island is a paradise for road trippers, offering everything from breathtaking landscapes to charming towns and adrenaline-pumping activities. Whether you’re seeking alpine adventures, coastal views, or cultural experiences, the South Island has it all. Here’s my ultimate road trip itinerary to help you make the most of your time exploring this stunning region.
Day 1: Arrive in Christchurch – Start Your Adventure
Your journey begins in Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island. Known as the “Garden City” for its lush parks and green spaces, Christchurch is a wonderful place to start your road trip.
- Morning: Arrive in Christchurch and take a leisurely stroll around the Botanic Gardens or explore the vibrant Re
Mall, made from shipping containers after the 2011 earthquake. - Afternoon: Visit the Canterbury Museum to get a glimpse of New Zealand’s history and culture.
- Evening: Head to Sumner Beach for a sunset walk before enjoying a delicious dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants.
Driving Distance: If you’re just staying in Christchurch for the night, you won’t need to drive much today.
Day 2: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo – Journey Through the Southern Alps
Your first real driving day takes you from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo, about a 3-hour drive. This route offers stunning views of the Southern Alps and takes you through picturesque towns like Rakaia.
- Morning: Depart from Christchurch and head south towards Lake Tekapo, famous for its vivid turquoise waters, stunning mountain backdrop, and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd.
- Afternoon: Spend time relaxing by the lake, then visit the Tekapo Springs for a soak in the hot pools with views of the surrounding mountains.
- Evening: Take in the spectacular night sky at Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, one of the best stargazing spots in the Southern Hemisphere.
Driving Distance: 3 hours (230 km)
Day 3: Lake Tekapo to Queenstown – Adventure Awaits
Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, is your next stop. A 3-hour drive takes you along some of the most scenic roads in the country, passing through Wanaka and the awe-inspiring Cromwell Gorge.
- Morning: Drive from Lake Tekapo to Queenstown, and stop in Wanaka to visit Lake Wanaka and the famous That Wanaka Tree, an Instagram-worthy spot.
- Afternoon: Arrive in Queenstown and begin your adventure with a thrilling Shotover Jet ride or take a scenic Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak for panoramic views of the town and Lake Wakatipu.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner by the lakefront and take a stroll along the Queenstown Gardens for a peaceful end to the day.
Driving Distance: 3 hours (265 km)
Day 4: Queenstown to Milford Sound – A Scenic Drive to Paradise
Today is a long but incredibly rewarding day. Milford Sound, often called the eighth wonder of the world, is a must-see destination, and the drive there is full of dramatic scenery.
- Morning: Set off early for the Milford Road, one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives. Along the way, stop at Te Anau for a coffee and to stretch your legs.
- Afternoon: Continue on to Milford Sound, where you can take a cruise to see the towering fjords, cascading waterfalls, and the occasional dolphin or seal.
- Evening: Head back to Queenstown for the night, or stay in Te Anau if you prefer a more relaxed pace.
Driving Distance: 5 hours (290 km) to Milford Sound and back to Queenstown
Day 5: Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier – From Adventure to Tranquility
Today, you’ll drive from Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier, a 4-hour journey that will take you through lush forests, farmland, and alpine vistas.
- Morning: Depart from Queenstown and drive through the Haast Pass, one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives, with stops at Thunder Creek Falls and Fantail Falls.
- Afternoon: Arrive at Franz Josef Glacier and take a guided walk or a heli-hike up the glacier itself. The breathtaking views and the sense of adventure will leave you in awe.
- Evening: Unwind in the nearby Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools after your day of exploration.
Driving Distance: 4 hours (330 km)
Day 6: Franz Josef Glacier to Arthur’s Pass – A Scenic Mountain Pass
On this leg of the trip, you’ll head toward Arthur’s Pass, which offers some of the best mountain scenery on the South Island.
- Morning: Take a leisurely drive from Franz Josef to Arthur’s Pass (about 4 hours). Stop at Lake Brunner for a peaceful break and some photos.
- Afternoon: Once you reach Arthur’s Pass National Park, enjoy short walks or hikes, such as the Devil’s Punchbowl Falls track, a 2-hour return hike that’s well worth the effort.
- Evening: Stay in the small village of Arthur’s Pass or drive back toward Christchurch if you prefer a shorter journey.
Driving Distance: 4 hours (250 km)
Day 7: Return to Christchurch – End of the Journey
On your final day, you’ll make your way back to Christchurch, but not without enjoying some last-minute sights along the way.
- Morning: Drive from Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch (about 2.5 hours). Stop for a quick detour to see the Cave Stream near the village of Greymouth, where you can explore a cave system carved out by an underground stream.
- Afternoon: Once back in Christchurch, take a moment to reflect on your journey and enjoy some final sightseeing, such as the International Antarctic Centre or the Cardboard Cathedral.
- Evening: If you have time before your flight, enjoy a relaxing dinner in one of Christchurch’s renowned restaurants.
Driving Distance: 2.5 hours (150 km)
Final Thoughts
New Zealand’s South Island offers an epic road trip experience, with a blend of awe-inspiring natural beauty, thrilling activities, and charming towns. This itinerary is designed to help you capture the best of the island, from its serene lakes and majestic mountains to its adrenaline-pumping adventures. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, the South Island road trip will undoubtedly leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So pack your bags, fuel up, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
