New Zealand South Island Road Trip Itinerary

New Zealand’s South Island is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and road trip enthusiasts. With breathtaking landscapes ranging from turquoise lakes and towering mountains to pristine beaches and lush rainforests, it is an ultimate bucket-list destination. Unlike the North Island, which is known for its geothermal activity and Maori culture, the South Island is all about dramatic scenery, remote wilderness, and world-class hiking opportunities. We are here to help you with the perfect south island road trip itinerary for your trip!

Having lived in New Zealand for two months, we had ample time to soak in its beauty, explore hidden gems, and embrace the Kiwi way of life. In December 2022, we embarked on an unforgettable two-week South Island road trip, experiencing its natural wonders and unique culture firsthand. This blog outlines our itinerary, along with travel tips, accommodation recommendations, and essential packing advice for your road trip 🚗

Best Time to Visit the South Island

The best time to visit the South Island largely depends on your interests. (Remember that seasons are reversed in the Southern Hemisphere)

• Summer (December-February): Ideal for following our South Island road trip itinerary and to include hiking, and beach days. Expect long daylight hours, warm temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), and minimal rainfall. The West Coast can be humid, while inland regions remain dry and sunny.
• Autumn (March-May): Beautiful fall foliage, fewer crowds, and still pleasant weather. Temperatures range from 7°C to 22°C (45°F to 72°F), with crisp mornings and cooler evenings. This is a great time for scenic drives through Central Otago and the Southern Alps, where the golden hues of autumn leaves create stunning landscapes.
• Winter (June-August): Perfect for skiing and snowboarding, especially in Queenstown and Wanaka. Temperatures range from -5°C to 10°C (23°F to 50°F) in alpine areas, with regular snowfall in the mountains and occasional frost in lower elevations. Coastal regions, like Dunedin (one of our favorites) and Christchurch, experience milder winters with temperatures staying above freezing.
• Spring (September-November): Blooming flowers, moderate temperatures, and fewer tourists. Temperatures range from 8°C to 20°C (46°F to 68°F), with unpredictable weather—some days feel like summer, while others can be cool and rainy. This is a fantastic time to witness lupin blooms and experience fewer crowds before peak season begins.

Since we visited in December, we experienced summer at its finest—sunny days, mild temperatures, and lush landscapes. It was a surreal experience celebrating Christmas in the sun, completely different from the snowy holidays we were used to in Canada!

How Much Time Do You Need for our South Island Road Trip Itinerary?

To truly experience the South Island, a minimum of two weeks is a must. This allows you to explore the diverse landscapes, enjoy scenic drives, and participate in various outdoor activities without feeling rushed. If you have more time, extending your trip to three or even four weeks will let you explore Queenstown and additional hidden gems, such as Nelson and Abel Tasman National Park, which we, unfortunately, had to skip. Whether you prefer a relaxed road trip or an action-packed adventure, New Zealand has something incredible waiting at every turn!

South Island Road Trip Itinerary

This itinerary reflects our journey, as we had only two weeks off from work and wanted to pack in as many bucket list experiences as possible. While we covered a lot, you can adjust the pace to suit your travel style—slow down, spend extra days in places you love, and savor the beauty of the South Island at your own rhythm.

Day 1 – Christchurch

Welcome to Christchurch! This resilient city has beautifully rebuilt itself after the 2011 earthquake, blending heritage with modern energy. Kick off your journey with a peaceful morning at the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, where native flora and seasonal blooms create a colorful oasis. While Christchurch has no dearth of green spaces, this was our favorite by a long shot.

From there, step into history at the Cardboard Cathedral, an architectural marvel made of cardboard tubes and polycarbonate panels, a symbol of resilience and creativity. Then, wander down New Regent Street, a pastel-colored lane filled with boutique shops, cafes, and street performers. As the sun starts to dip, head to the Pink Lady Rooftop Bar. Sip on a craft cocktail while watching the sunset paint the Southern Alps in shades of gold and pink. The crisp air, the city skyline, and the distant mountains—it’s the perfect start to your road trip. (This was where we began my birthday celebrations back in 2022! 🥳)

A couple of things we couldn’t get around to doing were – visit the Canterbury Museum to learn about the history and culture of the region, and take a punt ride along the tranquil Avon River for a unique perspective of the city. But we do recommend you do it if you have the time!

Day 2 – Arthur’s Pass to Hokitika

Today’s drive is an adventure in itself. (After all, we created our south island road trip itinerary to be such that every day is an adventure!) As you leave Christchurch, the landscape transforms dramatically—rolling plains give way to towering peaks as you enter Arthur’s Pass National Park. Our first stop is Castle Hill, a surreal playground of massive limestone boulders. You might find this to be very similar location for Lord of the Rings, from when the fellowship was traveling. However, I checked, and it isn’t the same spot. Just looks exactly the same!

Next, stretch your legs on a short but rewarding hike to Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall. Feel the cool mist on your face as the water plunges 131 meters down into the valley. Further along, stop at the Hokitika Gorge to see the vivid turquoise waters and rugged terrain. The way there was so quaint and beautiful. When we finally reached the gorge, we saw our first (and only) Kiwi!

As you descend towards the West Coast, the lush green rainforest opens up to the wild, driftwood-strewn shores of Hokitika Beach. At sunset, grab a coffee or ice cream from a local spot and relax by the famous Hokitika driftwood sign, watching the sky explode into shades of pink and orange over the Tasman Sea. We happened to be here on Christmas eve, and had hundreds of Santas roaming around the streets. A fun experience indeed! 🙂

Day 3-4: Fox Glacier & Franz Josef Glacier

The West Coast is known for its untamed beauty, and our journey to Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier will be nothing short of spectacular. These are some of the most accessible glaciers in the world, and seeing their icy blue crevasses up close is unforgettable.

Just a few minutes before hitting Franz Josef, we took a detour to Okarito and hiked to the top for breathtaking views of the Okarito Lagoon and the surrounding mountains. The hike is short, albeit a bit steep, but well worth it. This is something not to be missed! As you reach Fox Glacier make a stop by Café Neve for delicious toasties and coffee. This was the first time we had toasties (outside of India) and it instantly became our favorite snack!

If you’re up for the adventure and have the budget for it, indulge in a heli-hike—a thrilling helicopter ride will drop you onto the glacier, where you can explore ice caves and towering ice formations. It’s an otherworldly experience, walking on ice that has been forming for centuries. For a more relaxed but equally magical experience, wake up early and walk to Lake Matheson at sunrise, take the Reflection Point Trail for picture-perfect moments. The lake is famous for its mirror-like reflections of Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak. If the water is still, the view will leave you speechless—it’s like stepping into a postcard.

After a day of exploring, unwind in a private Waiho Hot Tub, soaking in warm water surrounded by lush rainforest. If the sky is clear, you’ll have a spectacular view of the stars while you relax.

Day 5-6: Wanaka

On the way to Wanaka, the drive was just breathtaking, with small towns and heavenly scenery along the way. Knights Point lookout was a highlight and should be a quick stop. But look at the rewarding views! Driving through Haast Pass, you’ll be greeted by waterfalls, deep gorges, and the clearest blue rivers you’ve ever seen. Don’t rush—stop at the Blue Pools Walk, a short trail leading to stunning glacial pools so vibrant they seem unreal.

Once in Wanaka, there’s one hike that calls to every adventurer: Roys Peak. It’s a challenging climb, but the view from the top—endless mountains rolling into the horizon, with Lake Wanaka shimmering below—is worth every step. If you prefer something gentler, the Diamond Lake Track offers similar stunning vistas with less effort. Along the way make sure you stop by the The Neck, a narrow isthmus that separates Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka.

Don’t forget a photo with #ThatWanakaTree—a lone willow standing in the lake, one of the most photographed trees in the world. Next day before heading out, stop at the iconic Rippon Winery for a wine tasting. The setting of the winery is so beautiful you would never want to leave. Make sure you have an appointment, unless you want to be turned away!

Day 7-9: Mount Cook & Lake Tekapo

The drive to Mount Cook National Park via Lindis Pass is one of the most breathtaking in New Zealand. As you approach Lake Pukaki, its impossibly turquoise waters will make you question if it’s real. Stop for a break, dip your toes in the glacial-fed water, and just take it all in. Once at Mount Cook, hike the Hooker Valley Track, an easy but rewarding trail that takes you across swing bridges, through alpine meadows, and finally to a glacier-fed lake with floating icebergs. The towering presence of Aoraki/Mount Cook will leave you in awe.

Next day: Lake Tekapo is the most breathtaking take in New Zealand offering panoramic views of Mount Cook and the shores come alive with vibrant pink and purple lupin. Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, a tiny stone church sitting against the lake, offering one of the most serene views in the country. As night falls, make your way up to Mount John Observatory—this is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Wrapped in a blanket, hot chocolate in hand, watch as the Milky Way stretches across the sky in dazzling detail.

Day 10-11: Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula

Dunedin, with its rich Scottish heritage, feels like stepping into another time. Visit Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle, and explore its beautiful gardens with sweeping views of the Otago Peninsula. Then, tackle the infamous Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest residential street—walking up is a workout, but rolling down is fun!

The Otago Peninsula is a wildlife lover’s dream. Take one of the two roads each way, upper or lower to experience the beautiful scenery of the peninsula. Drive along its winding coastal roads to spot yellow-eyed penguins, New Zealand fur seals, and albatross colonies. If you’re patient, you might even see penguins waddling up the beach at sunset.

Day 12-13: Te Anau & Milford Sound

It’s now time to head to Te Anau, the gateway to the breathtaking Milford Sound. Along the way, stop at Mirror Lakes, where the still waters create stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains.

The drive to Milford Sound is as spectacular as the destination itself—cascading waterfalls, sheer cliffs, and lush rainforests make this one of the most scenic roads in the world. Once you arrive, hop on a cruise through the fjord, passing dramatic cliffs and waterfalls. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, and even penguins! The highlight is seeing the mighty Stirling Falls up close, feeling the mist on your face as the water crashes down.

Day 14: Queenstown

Our journey ends in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Whether you’re bungee jumping off the Kawarau Bridge, taking a jet boat ride through Shotover Canyon, or simply indulging in a legendary Fergburger, this is the perfect way to wrap up your road trip. If you prefer a more relaxed day, take a cruise on Lake Wakatipu, followed by a scenic drive to Glenorchy, where Lord of the Rings landscapes come to life. Or go for a dip in the Onsen Hot Pools, which provide one of the best hot-tubbing experiences we found in New Zealand. Do not miss the Skyline Gondola, which offers stunning views of the Remarkables mountain range. The Remarkables are truly remarkable!

Queenstown has a unique energy—whether you’re chasing adrenaline, sipping world-class wines in Gibbston Valley, or just soaking in the lake views, it’s a place that deserves more than just a day or two. If you have more time, I’d highly recommend spending at least 5 days in Queenstown to truly experience everything it has to offer. We stayed here for a week, working remotely during the morning and exploring in the afternoon and evening before making our way to New Zealand’s North Island via Christchurch.

If you are also interested to travel and work remotely from Queenstown, check out our SLOMAD TIPS to help plan your workation!

Read our blog post on the new visitor visa changes by New Zealand which allows your to work remotely as a tourist. You can get your journey started as a digital nomad now!

Stand by the lake one last time as you are sipping a coffee, watching the Remarkables glow in the setting sun. This has been more than just a road trip—it’s been an adventure of a lifetime. And if you’re like us, you’ll already be planning your next visit before you leave.

Budget Breakdown for a 2-Week South Island Road Trip

Planning a 2-week road trip in New Zealand’s South Island? Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to spend based on a mid-range budget, balancing comfort with cost-effectiveness. Prices will vary based on season, travel style, and personal preferences, but this should give you a solid estimate.

💰 Estimated Costs for 2 People (14 Days)

Category	Estimated Cost (NZD)
Car Rental & Fuel	$1,500 – $2,000
Accommodation	$3,000 – $4,500
Food & Drinks	$1,500 – $2,500
Activities & Tours	$2,000 – $3,500
Miscellaneous	$500 – $1,000
Total Estimated Cost	$8,500 – $13,500 NZD

🚗 Car Rental & Fuel ($1,500 – $2,000 NZD)

• Rental Car (SUV or Campervan): $80 – $150 per day
  We rented a mid-size SUV for extra comfort and to handle New Zealand’s winding roads, costing around $100 per day.
• Fuel Costs: $3.00 – $3.50 per liter
  Expect to spend around $500 – $800 on petrol, depending on how far you drive and fuel efficiency.
• Additional Costs:
  • Insurance: $150 – $250 for peace of mind
  • One-way rental fee (if applicable): $100 – $300
  • Parking fees in cities like Queenstown and Christchurch

💡 Tip: Consider renting from Apex, Jucy, or Go Rentals for good deals. If you’re on a tighter budget, smaller cars are cheaper to rent and fuel.

🏡 Accommodation ($3,000 – $4,500 NZD)

• Budget ($80 – $120/night): Motels, hostels, and budget-friendly Airbnbs
• Mid-Range ($150 – $250/night): Comfortable hotels, lodges, and boutique stays (our choice)
• Luxury ($300+ per night): High-end lodges and lakefront hotels

💡 Where We Saved: We mixed hotels with Airbnbs to cut costs and booked early to lock in deals. For expensive locations like Mount Cook and Queenstown, booking months in advance is crucial. We didn’t book early enough and got stuck in a hostel without air conditioning, which was truly awful.

🍽️ Food & Drinks ($1,500 – $2,500 NZD)

• Groceries & Self-Catering (50% of meals): $300 – $500
  Buying groceries from supermarkets helped us save on breakfast and road trip snacks.
• Eating Out (50% of meals): $40 – $80 per meal for two
  Casual cafés and local restaurants were about $20 – $40 per person.
• Splurges (Fancy Meals & Wine Tasting): $150 – $300 for special occasions
  Queenstown and Wanaka have amazing dining spots worth indulging in. Reservations are essential.
• Coffee & Snacks: $5 – $10 per stop
  New Zealand has great coffee—expect to stop often!

💡 Tip: Bring a reusable water bottle—tap water is safe to drink and helps you save on bottled water.

🎢 Activities & Tours ($2,000 – $3,500 NZD)

Some of our favorite activities and their approximate costs:

• Helicopter Glacier Hike (Fox Glacier or Franz Josef) – $500 per person
• Milford Sound Cruise – $100 – $150 per person
• Bungee Jump (Queenstown) – $205 per person
• Shotover Jet Boat Ride – $159 per person
• Skyline Gondola & Luge (Queenstown) – $50 – $80 per person
• Wine Tasting (Gibbston Valley) – $20 – $50 per person
• Stargazing at Mount John Observatory (Tekapo) – $50 per person

💡 Tip: Some of the best experiences, like hiking Hooker Valley Track, visiting Lake Matheson, and exploring Blue Pools, are free!

Travel Tips for our South Island Road Trip Itinerary

• Drive on the left: New Zealand follows left-hand driving, which may take a little getting used to for some travelers. Look out for dead possums. Unfortunately, you’ll find tons of them during your 2 weeks.
• Fuel up: Remote areas like Milford Sound have limited fuel stations, so fill up whenever you get the chance.
• Watch for one-lane bridges: The South Island has many one-lane bridges, requiring you to yield to oncoming traffic.
• Check road conditions: Some roads, especially in alpine areas, may be closed due to weather conditions.
• Drive carefully at night: Wildlife, particularly possums and deer, can appear on the roads.
• Expect limited cell service: Many remote areas have little to no network coverage, so download offline maps beforehand.
• Drone videos: The island is so beautiful that you can get an infinite number of cool drone shots. We also found this great post about how to travel with your DJI drone.

Packing List for our South Island Road Trip Itinerary

• Clothing: Layers, a waterproof jacket, towel, swimwear, and comfortable walking shoes.
• Essentials: Sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable water bottles, and a power bank.
• Camping & Hiking Gear: If you plan on camping, bring a tent, hiking shoes, sleeping bag, and cooking essentials.
• Navigation Tools: Download Google Maps or an offline GPS app for remote areas.
• Snacks & Groceries: Some areas have limited food options, so carrying snacks is always a good idea.

Accommodations in South Island

Finding the right balance between comfort, convenience and cost was important for us on this trip, so we opted for a mix of AirBnBs, hotels, and lodges, each offering a unique experience that enhanced our time in New Zealand. From cozy motels to lakeside retreats with breathtaking views, every stay had its own charm. Here are some of our personal recommendations based on what we loved about each place:

Christchurch

• Budget Option: Quest Christchurch
  💡 Located right in the heart of the city, Quest Christchurch gave us easy access to the Botanic Gardens, New Regent Street, and all the best cafés. The apartments were spacious, with kitchenettes, making it perfect for a short but comfortable stay.

• Luxury Option: The George Hotel
  💡 For those looking for a more indulgent stay, The George is one of Christchurch’s most highly rated luxury hotels, offering top-notch service and a refined experience right by Hagley Park.

Hokitika

• Recommendation: Hokitika Fire Station Boutique Accommodation
  💡 A converted fire station turned boutique hotel, it combined modern comfort with historic charm. Hokitika itself was small but had a laid-back, coastal vibe, and this accommodation added to its character.

Fox Glacier

• Where we stayed: Rainforest Retreat
  💡 Tucked away in the rainforest, this place felt like a hidden jungle retreat, with wooden cabins surrounded by lush greenery. The on-site hot tubs were the perfect way to unwind after a day of glacier hikes.

• Alternative: Fox Glacier Lodge
  💡 A family-run lodge with cozy rooms and a great location for exploring the glacier region.

Wanaka

• Option: Edgewater Hotel
  💡 Spectacular lake views and was a short, scenic walk to the Wanaka town center. Waking up with the lake right outside our window felt surreal.

• Alternative: Wanaka Homestead
  💡 A charming boutique accommodation with a cozy, rustic yet luxurious feel. Great for those who prefer a quiet retreat near the lake.

Mount Cook

• Option: The Hermitage Hotel
  💡 It’s the only hotel in the national park with panoramic views of the mountains, and waking up to the sight of New Zealand’s tallest peak was truly unforgettable. The on-site restaurant was a bit pricey, but the food was great after a long day of hiking.
  
• Alternative: You can stay overnight in the near town Twizel which is 40 minutes drive from Mount Cook for budget options.

Dunedin

• Where we stayed: The Chamberson
  💡 Why we loved it: This stylish boutique hotel was located right in the heart of Dunedin, making it incredibly convenient for exploring the city. The rooms were spacious, modern, and tastefully decorated, blending heritage charm with contemporary comfort. We loved the high ceilings, large windows, and cozy atmosphere—it felt like a hidden gem in the middle of the city.
  
• Alternative: Bluestone on George
  💡 Another great option, known for its spacious, modern rooms and a peaceful location with city views.

Te Anau

• Where we stayed: Fiordland Lakeview Motel
  💡 Why we loved it: Located right on the lake, this was the ideal base before heading to Milford Sound. The rooms were spacious and had a breathtaking lake view, and it was only a short walk into town for dinner. Te Anau was quiet and peaceful—perfect for a relaxing night before the big adventure to Milford Sound.

Queenstown

• Where we stayed: La Quinta by Wyndham Queenstown
• 💡 Why we loved it: This was easily one of our favorite stays of the trip! Waking up to direct views of The Remarkables mountain range. The rooms were modern and well-equipped with a kitchenette was great for us as we stayed in Queenstown for a week while working remotely.
  
• Alternative (More Central): Novotel Queenstown Lakeside
  💡 If you want to stay closer to the town center and be right by the waterfront, Novotel is a fantastic option with a great location.

• Alternative (Luxury Option): Kamana Lakehouse
  💡 For a more boutique, high-end experience, Kamana Lakehouse offers incredible views over Queenstown and the lake, with a private hot tub option to soak in the scenery.

Best Hiking Trails in South Island

Exploring the South Island wouldn’t be complete without experiencing some of its incredible hiking trails. Based on our itinerary, here are some of the most unique hikes, due to limited time we weren’t able to do all:

• Hooker Valley Track (Mount Cook National Park) – 6.2 miles (10 km) round trip. A stunningly scenic hike that takes you through swing bridges, glacial rivers, and offers breathtaking views of Mount Cook and Hooker Glacier.
• Roys Peak Track (Wanaka) – 10.5 miles (16.5 km) round trip. One of the most famous hikes in New Zealand, featuring a steep incline but rewarding you with panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains.
• Blue Pools Walk (Haast Pass) – 1.5 miles (2.4 km) round trip. A short, easy walk through a beech forest leading to crystal-clear glacial pools with vibrant blue waters. This is must if you want to see the magnificent blue pools.
• Lake Matheson Walk (Fox Glacier) – 3.1 miles (5 km) round trip. A flat, easy loop around the lake with mirror-like reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman on a clear day. This was one of our favourite hikes, easy but rewards with beautiful views.
• Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall Walk (Arthur’s Pass) – 1.2 miles (2 km) round trip. A short but steep trail leading to an impressive 131-meter waterfall nestled in the beech forest.
• Diamond Lake Track (Wanaka) – 4.3 miles (7 km) round trip. A lesser-known alternative to Roys Peak with rewarding lake and mountain views minus the crowds.
• Tunnel Beach Walk (Dunedin) – 1.1 miles (1.7 km) round trip. A short, steep hike down to a secluded beach with dramatic sea cliffs and a tunnel carved through the rock.

Each of these trails offers something unique, from glacial landscapes and panoramic mountain views to hidden waterfalls and coastal cliffs. If you love hiking, these trails are a must-add to your South Island road trip itinerary!

Final Thoughts: A Journey of a Lifetime

This South Island road trip itinerary was one of the our best prepared itineraries and provided us the most incredible experiences of our lives. Every turn felt like stepping into a postcard—turquoise lakes, towering glaciers, lush rainforests, and dramatic fjords that left us in awe. From stargazing under the clearest skies at Mount John Observatory to feeling the mist of Stirling Falls in Milford Sound, each moment was unforgettable. The freedom of the open road, the warmth of the locals, and the sheer variety of landscapes made this adventure truly special. Whether hiking through Mount Cook National Park, soaking in Waiho Hot Tubs, or enjoying a quiet lakeside coffee, New Zealand has a way of making you slow down and appreciate every second. We cannot wait to return—this wasn’t just a trip, but a reminder of how breathtaking the world can be. Until next time, New Zealand!