11Days / 10Nights South Island Road Trip Itinerary
There are two main islands in New Zealand, the North Island and the South Island. The South Island is renowned for its stunning landscapes and natural attractions. If you are planning a road trip to the South Island, here are some recommendations from us.
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Day 1: Christchurch to Kaikoura
Kaikoura is famous for its breathtaking marine life along its scenic coastline, where you can encounter whales, dolphins, seals, penguins, and diverse aquatic bird species.
In Kaikoura, you’ll marvel at the sight of the majestic Southern Alps meeting the expansive Pacific Ocean shoreline. The vistas are truly spectacular, offering an abundance of sights and activities to enjoy. And for food enthusiasts, Kaikoura is a paradise for seafood lovers that promises an unforgettable culinary experience!
Distance: ~181km
Time to allow: ~2hr30mins
Things to do: Dolphin Encounter, Whale Watch, Nin’s Bin, Fishing Tour, Kaikoura Peninsula Scenic Lookout
Day 2: Kaikoura to Hanmer Spring
Hanmer Springs is renowned for its natural hot pools and magnificent landscapes, providing visitors with a revitalizing retreat amid the awe-inspiring natural scenery. Engage in adventurous activities that will immerse you in the wild beauty of Hanmer. Whether it’s forest hiking, mountain biking, horse trekking, bungy jumping, jet boating, or hitting the slopes for skiing in winter, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Distance: ~130km
Time to allow: ~2hrs
Things to do: Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, Hanmer Forest, Hanmer Springs Attractions, Quad Bikes
Day 3: Hanmer Spring to Hokitika
Hokitika is a little cool town located on the West Coast, known for its rich cultural art scene and heritage history. Additionally, it boasts some of the most scenic gorges along the Hokitika River, offering picturesque walking and hiking trails for visitors to explore and enjoy.
Distance: ~253km
Time to allow: ~3hr15mins
Things to do: Hokitika Gorge, Hokitika Beach, Tree Top zipline, Lake Kaniere
Day 4: Hokitika to Fox Glacier
Fox Glacier is famous for its heli-hiking experience. It descends 2,600 metres from the lofty heights of the Southern Alps, fueled by the snowfall from four alpine glaciers, which accumulate about 30 metres of snow each year. This snow is compressed into dense blue ice hundreds of meters deep at the glacier’s summit.
Distance: ~158km
Time to allow: ~2hr15mins
Things to do: Fox Glacier Heli Walk, Franz Josef Heli Hike, Lake Matheson
Day 5: Fox Glacier to Wanaka
Wanaka serves as the gateway to Mount Aspiring National Park in the Southern Alps, a pristine wilderness of glaciers, beech forests, and alpine lakes. Nearby, you will find the Treble Cone and Cardrona ski resorts. Just outside the town is Puzzling World, featuring an outdoor maze and sculpture gallery.
Distance: ~262km
Time to allow: ~3hr30mins
Things to do: Skydive Wanaka, Wildwire, Puzzling World, Skiing Cardrona, Treble Cone, and Soho Basin in wintertime
Day 6: Wanaka
It’s worth spending a day in Wanaka because there are plenty of activities in the area. You can go hiking or try something more exciting. Roys Peak is one of the famous spots for capturing scenic photos of Wanaka. Alternatively, if you’re seeking excitement, Crossfire offers opportunities for clay bird shooting, archery, and rifle shooting.
Day 7: Wanaka to Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Encompassing 1.2 million hectares of mountains, lakes, and rainforest, Fiordland is home to unique flora and fauna. Fiordland offers unparalleled opportunities for exploration and discovery in the heart of New Zealand’s South Island.
Distance: ~226km
Time to allow: ~3hr
Things to do: Te Anau town, Milford sound, Doubtful sound, The Great Walk
Day 8: Fiordland National Park to Queenstown
Queenstown is renowned for its wide array of outdoor adventure activities, including jet boating, Hydro attack, bungy jumping, skydiving, white water rafting, kayaking, and luge. Additionally, it is nestled amidst majestic mountains and a serene lake. Therefore, during winter, you can marvel at the snow-capped peaks that surround you.
Distance: ~171km
Time to allow: ~2hr15mins
Things to do: biking, hiking, skydiving, and bungy jumping
Day 9: Queenstown
There are many activities in Queenstown. Spending an extra day there would greatly enhance your journey. The Skyline Gondola offers an amazing opportunity to overlook the beauty of Queenstown. From the top, you can enjoy the downhill ride. Additionally, you can partake in bungy jumping, paragliding, and water adventures. In winter, skiing and snowboarding are also popular options.
Day 10: Queenstown to Mt Cook
Mt Cook is one of the tallest mountains in New Zealand. It holds a unique cultural significance, particularly for Ngāi Tahu, the primary iwi (tribe) of New Zealand’s southern region. Aoraki is not merely a mountain but is revered as a sacred ancestor, embodying a spiritual connection that extends beyond the physical landscape.
Distance: ~262km
Time to allow: ~3hr15mins
Things to do: Hooker Vallery Track, Blue Lakes, Tasman Glacier View Walk and Kea Point, Scenic flight
Day 11: Mt Cook to Christchurch
On the way from Mt. Cook to Christchurch, you will pass through Lake Pukaki, Lake Tekapo, and Fairlie. You can stop in front of those lakes to capture stunning photos from both sides. And when you are in Fairlie, you can try one of the most famous pies in the South Island. You will always find a long queue in front of the shop. Then you head back to Christchurch. There are many bars and restaurants around every corner in the city, offering a diverse range of cuisines and atmospheres to explore.
Distance: ~329km
Time to allow: ~4hr5mins
Things to do: Lake Pukaki Viewpoint, The Church of the Good Shepherd, Tekapo Springs, Fairlie Bakehouse
Photos credit to Brilliant Rentals, 100% Pure New Zealand, Queestownnz, Lolita Dickson, and Zon Dasein(Unsplash)
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