My New Zealand South Island Highway Journey Itinerary

The South Island of New Zealand is the nation’s bigger (however less-populated) island…but it surely’s additionally essentially the most visually gorgeous. With simply 23% of the nation’s 5.2 million inhabitants, it’s a dramatic and delightful island, residence to wineries, wildlife, high-octane journey sports activities, and pristine seashores. That is the island that individuals find yourself spending extra time in and, whereas everybody sticks to only a few areas, there’s numerous hidden areas right here value exploring.

At a minimal, you’ll need to spend two weeks exploring. Something lower than that and also you’ll really feel rushed. As I stated, there’s rather a lot to see right here. That means you’ll be able to see the massive attracts, get off the overwhelmed path, do some good mountain climbing, and never rush (journey between locations can take longer than you suppose)!

With two weeks to traverse New Zealand’s South Island, what route do you have to take? The place do you have to begin, and the place do you have to end?

Under is my steered itinerary that can assist you plan your South Island street journey to will be sure that you see the highlights, benefit from your time, and get off the overwhelmed path.

New Zealand Highlights: South Island

Simply on the lookout for a couple of pointers to start out your planning? These are issues I believe each customer ought to expertise:

Trying to see the opposite island? Take a look at my detailed street journey itinerary for the North Island!
 

Selecting the Proper Car

Earlier than you propose your route, you want a method to get round. Highway-tripping New Zealand by campervan may be very standard, particularly amongst budget-conscious vacationers, because the automobile serves as each lodging and transportation. If you would like a campervan, there are 5 foremost rental companies:

Costs differ rather a lot. Your every day fee will change relying on the place you decide up the automobile, in case you are dropping it off at a distinct place, how lengthy you might be renting it for, how far upfront you e book, and when in the course of the 12 months you e book (within the excessive season, costs appear to double!).

If residing out of a van for a couple of weeks doesn’t sound like your thought of a enjoyable time, merely lease a standard automotive and e book lodging alongside the best way. Uncover Automobiles is my go-to rental web site, as they search rental companies large and small to search out the perfect offers.

You need to use this widget to get a free quote to your automotive rental:

New Zealand Highway Journey Itinerary: A Two-Week South Island Route

Begin your journey in Queenstown. Even when your worldwide flight lands in Auckland on the North Island, you’ll be able to simply get an inexpensive flight to Queenstown, which additionally has direct flights to many main cities in Australia in case your journey to New Zealand is an element of a bigger journey.

Days 1–3: Queenstown

Queenstown is a picturesque city overlooking Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the attractive peaks of the Remarkables mountain vary. It has an outdoorsy power, with pedestrian lanes full of outlets and eating places. Despite the fact that it has change into massively standard, I can’t categorical my love of Queenstown sufficient. I like sitting by the lake, watching the sundown with a bottle of wine, and mountain climbing the close by trails.

Queenstown is also called “the journey capital of New Zealand.” It’s the launching pad for each form of journey exercise you’ll be able to consider, together with zip-lining, bungee leaping, canyon swinging, rafting, and even skydiving. It’s also possible to strive extra distinctive actions like river browsing, jet-boating, go-karting, paddle-boarding, and paragliding.

For one thing extra laid-back, take a wine tour in and round Queenstown. I at all times do that after I go to (the grape of selection right here is the light-red Pinot Noir). If wine isn’t your factor, get pleasure from a soothing cruise on Lake Wakatipu for some gorgeous views!

For an inventory of extra issues to do in Queenstown, take a look at my detailed information.

The place to Keep: Nomads Queenstown – Most rooms on this social hostel have balconies, the showers have glorious water stress, and the pillows are thick and comfortable. There are actions each night time and a free dinner and quiz night time on Sunday. It’s a enjoyable and reasonably priced place to remain.
 
Days 4–6: Fiordland

Named for its resplendent fjords (lengthy, slim inlets banked by steep cliffs, created by glaciers), Fiordland is without doubt one of the nation’s most scenic and distant areas. (It’s residence to quite a few Lord of the Rings filming areas). Boasting gigantic mountains, deep lakes, swelling rivers, and untamed forests, the land is formally off-limits in order to guard these pure sources.

I cherished the world right here. There’s numerous good mountain climbing and delightful views. There are various fjords and sounds to discover in Fiordland Nationwide Park, however I notably love Milford Sound. This wonderful fjord is finest recognized for the towering Mitre Peak and its surrounding rainforest. You possibly can stroll the wooded shoreline path for good views of the height, or take the Chasm Stroll on the Cleddau River to get near highly effective waterfalls.

The fjord itself is residence to seal and penguin colonies. You possibly can usually see pods of dolphins frolicking within the waters too. Discover by boat and take a look at the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory to see uncommon black coral and different underwater life. Southern Discoveries is the one firm doing cruises that embody the Underwater Observatory, ranging from 165 NZD.

Whereas much less well-known than Milford, Uncertain Sound is the deepest and second-largest fjord within the nation. You possibly can solely get to Uncertain through boat. A wilderness cruise of Uncertain Sound prices 299 NZD.

In the event you like mountain climbing, some of the standard walks within the nationwide park is the Kepler Observe, passing underneath snow-covered mountain peaks and plush verdant forests. It’s very near the Te Anau basecamp, and the straightforward entry and scenic views alongside the best way make it an ideal selection. The entire loop is 37 miles (60 kilometers). It takes three or 4 days to finish.

Be aware: There’s restricted bus service within the space so having a automotive right here could be very useful.

The place to Keep: Milford Sound Lodge – That is the one place to remain close by. It’s not low-cost, however the views are unmatched, the complimentary breakfast is scrumptious, and the up to date rooms are cozy but fashionable. In the event you don’t thoughts driving a bit extra, you’ll be able to keep within the closest city, Te Anau.
 

Days 7–8: Wanaka

Wanaka is a resort city framed by snow-capped mountains. As close by Queenstown has change into overcrowded in recent times, journey to Wanaka has exploded (and, in a means, additionally change into overcrowded as a result of it’s tremendous small). It’s change into standard with backpackers and outside fans, particularly skiers and boaters. There’s not a ton to do apart from having fun with the outside (which is what I like about it). Most individuals come for a couple of nights to hike (or ski within the winter), chill out, and transfer on.

Wanaka has change into one thing of a smaller model of Queenstown, so you’ll be able to count on loads of journey sports activities alternatives. I’m not an adrenaline junkie (and I don’t like heights). But when it’s your cup of tea, you’ll be able to go skydiving, canyoning, rock-climbing, paragliding, jet-boating, or mountaineering, together with scores of different actions that can get your coronary heart pounding.

You possibly can take a glad hour boat cruise, go fishing or mountain climbing, or do one other wine tour (there’s no such factor as too many wine excursions!).

The meals scene right here is de facto nice too.

For an inventory of extra issues to do in Wanaka, take a look at my detailed information.

The place to Keep: Mountain View Backpackers – This social hostel has an enormous outside house with a grill, and a giant desk to congregate round that makes assembly individuals a breeze. I had many pleasurable nights spent ingesting wine exterior right here whereas I chatted with different vacationers.
 
Day 9: Franz Josef Glacier

In 1865, Julius von Haast christened the massive, stunning glacier on the South Island of New Zealand “Franz Josef Glacier” after the then-monarch of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The title caught, and right now the glacier is a significant vacationer attraction.

Mountain climbing the glaciers is an unforgettable expertise. Sadly, as a result of they’ve receded and are melting rapidly as a result of local weather change, the caves and trails have been shut down. Now, the one method to trek on them is through heli-hike (an epic half-day or full-day helicopter/mountain climbing expertise). These are costly (500 NZD), however the helicopter experience, trekking, and expertise as a complete are definitely worth the value in my view. It’s a kind of once-in-a-lifetime experiences you received’t remorse.

Conversely, you’ll be able to simply hike to the glacier face and take photographs from a distance. There are tons of viewing factors (the place you’ll additionally see sobering photographs of simply how far the glaciers have receded over time).

There are additionally numerous actions to do close by. You possibly can go trekking by way of a rainforest (sure, there’s a rainforest close by), admire towering waterfalls, and swim (or go kayaking) in pristine lakes. There are additionally some pure thermal swimming pools that you could take a soak in to appease your post-hike muscle tissue.

The place to Keep: Chateau Backpacker & Motels – Only a ten-minute drive from the glacier, this lodging provides company free selfmade soup each night time and free breakfast (together with selfmade waffles and pancakes). It has two communal kitchens if you wish to prepare dinner, and a sizzling tub for enjoyable. It’s a energetic, social spot.
 
Days 10–11: Abel Tasman Nationwide Park

Drive simply six hours north of glacial Franz Josef and also you’ll be in beachy Abel Tasman Nationwide Park, New Zealand’s smallest nationwide park. With its turquoise water, dense jungles, and heat temperatures, you’ll really feel such as you’re within the tropics quite than New Zealand. It covers over 23,876 hectares (59,000 acres), which means there are numerous single and multiday hikes. Probably the most well-known is the 3-5-day Abel Tasman Coast Observe, one of many Nice Walks of New Zealand.

The easiest way to see the park is by kayak. That means, you’ll be able to discover all of the little coves and seashores that actually make the world particular. Full-day leases begin at round 110 NZD, or you’ll be able to be part of a guided kayaking tour beginning at 190 NZD. It’s also possible to take a scenic cruise across the park for 95 NZD.

In the event you’re aching for some critical surf, sand, and solar time, head to Te Puketea Bay. This pristine, crescent-shaped seaside hugs up in opposition to turquoise waters, and lounging right here is definitely worth the journey to Abel Tasman alone. It’s also possible to stroll as much as the centuries-old Maori fort, known as Pa, for glorious views of the encircling nature.

The place to Keep: Marahau Seaside Camp – This lodging provides dormitories and small non-public cottages, a communal kitchen, and a seasonal restaurant. There are additionally tent and campervan websites if you wish to lower your expenses. It’s a chill, no-frills spot.

From right here, decide your final cease: both drive onward to Christchurch and finish there, or take the ferry over to Wellington (an journey in and of itself!) and finish there. Both means, you’ll have the ability to catch an inexpensive and fast flight again to Auckland to your worldwide flight residence.

In the event you’re heading to Christchurch, preserve studying. In the event you’d like to go to Wellington, take a look at my North Island itinerary right here.
 
Days 12–14: Christchurch

Although severely broken by earthquakes in 2010 and 2011 (over 185 individuals have been killed and three,000 buildings have been broken), Christchurch has rebounded and developed right into a brand-new metropolis. This revival has instilled a newfound sense of hope and vibrancy, with extra funky bars and markets, in addition to new eating places, outlets, and displays. The locals have labored onerous to rebuild, and there’s a group spirit right here that actually shines. I like the place Christchurch goes and I’m glad to see its revival.

Whereas there’s not rather a lot “to do” per se, the vibe is de facto relaxed, and it’s value taking your time when you can. Make sure to experience the gondola, go to the Canterbury Museum, and tour Quake Metropolis (a novel and interactive museum that recounts private tales from the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes).

For an inventory of extra issues to do in Christchurch, take a look at my metropolis information.

The place to Keep: Urbanz– That is an superior hostel downtown, with pleasant workers and an enormous kitchen. There’s additionally a bar, a pool desk, quick Wi-Fi, laundry, films, and comfortable couches, in addition to a parking zone.
 

Issues to Bear in mind When Highway-Tripping New Zealand

That will help you benefit from your street journey, please bear in mind the next guidelines:

• Site visitors flows on the left right here (not the correct, like within the US or Canada).
• It’s essential to at all times park your automotive within the course that site visitors goes (or threat a superb).
• There are many pull-off factors for taking photographs — use them as a substitute of stopping at a random spot alongside the aspect of the street, which may be fairly harmful given how tight the roads are right here.
• Roads listed here are winding, so do not forget that it’d take longer than you count on to cowl a specific distance.
• So long as your present and legitimate driver’s license is in English, you don’t want an Worldwide Driver’s Allow.
• In the event you’re touring by campervan, use the CamperMate app to search out close by campsites, gasoline stations, and dump stations.

New Zealand’s South Island is an unforgettable vacation spot, the place I at all times have a blast. It’s a area loaded with epic landscapes, pleasant Kiwis, and a wealthy tradition. After visiting a bunch over the previous decade and a half, I’ve discovered firsthand how superior a street journey there may be. Simply comply with the route above and also you’ll be assured to have an epic go to to this picturesque isle!