Trip Itinerary: 10-Day New Zealand South Island Road Trip
If you’re ready for the road trip of a lifetime, this 10-day New Zealand South Island itinerary is for you. While we’re the first to admit that a 10-day road trip isn’t enough time to properly see this diverse island, this South Island itinerary will give you a taste of New Zealand’s best.
Road tripping is the best way to see New Zealand. Even though, geographically, we’re a tiny country, there’s plenty of ground to cover and little in the way of public transportation. New Zealand’s showpiece is its outdoors (though our towns and cities are worth a visit, too!), so taking the scenery in at your own pace, stopping off for walks, and enjoying the many vistas will afford you a classic kiwi experience.
If you’re ready for your journey on the bottom half of the globe, buckle up and enjoy the ride - it’s going to be a whirlwind!
Please note that DOC, the Department of Conservation, have recently added many campsites to their online bookable system. While this means it’s easier to plan ahead and secure a spot, it’s a deviation from the ‘first come, first served’ nature New Zealand has had for so long. If you’re dead set on a campsite or are confident in your route and timings, book ahead! Here’s the link to book DOC’s campsites, huts, and lodges.
A Few Things to Note About the South Island
South Island roads are different. You’ll see these billboards, sponsored by the government transport agency, NZTA, dotted around the South Island - but what do they mean? These ambiguous signs are meant to keep you alert and ready for anything - as South Island roads aren’t long, flat, or wide. Expect windy, mountain roads, blind corners, and one-way bridges on major highways. New Zealanders also drive on the left side of the road. Read more about driving in New Zealand here.
Don’t speed. Unlike other countries that allow a few kilometres over the speed limit, our officers are sticklers for the posted speed. Stick to the signs, pull over when safe if there’s a line of cars behind you, and stay alert.
Be prepared. Shops, especially those in rural areas, tend to close around 5pm-6pm. Be sure to stock up on any supplies in the morning to avoid running out. Also, keep in mind that there can be long, often mountainous expanses without a petrol station or supermarket in sight.
Cell phone reception can be spotty. Download crucial maps and directions while you still have cell reception. While coverage can be good near towns, it’s a safe bet that you’ll lose coverage in the mountains or remote locations.
If a sign says no freedom camping, they mean it. Each local government has its own rule about freedom camping. Some welcome freedom campers with open arms, providing designated parking spots and facilities, while others place a blanket ban on entire towns. It can sometimes be confusing to determine where freedom-camping is allowed, so if you’re unsure stop into the local i-Site or DOC office for some guidance. Or, download the app CamperMate, which provides maps of campsites complete with pictures, useful information, and user-generated tips and comments. Read more about camping in New Zealand here and freedom camping in New Zealand here.
Weather is unpredictable. It’s not uncommon to experience four seasons in a day in New Zealand. When you’re packing and planning your day’s activities, check your weather app frequently to make sure your plans match up with the forecast. Be sure to bring along plenty of layers (we’re suckers for merino baselayers here) and a rain jacket for those unexpected showers.
Your South Island 10-Day Road Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Christchurch to Lake Pukaki
Total drive time: 3 hours
Campsite: Lake Pukaki Freedom Camping
The 2011 earthquakes left a scar on Christchurch, the South Island’s largest city, but between the budding restaurant and retail scene, the city is coming alive. We suggest stretching your legs with a stroll along the river, ending at Riverside Market, to stock up from the many stalls filled with cheese, baked goods, and cuisines from all over the world. Then, hit the road.
On your way, stop for a spell in Lake Tekapo to check out the glacial blue lake, which you can walk a portion of to stretch your legs. Be sure to check out the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd as well. Then, head off to Lake Pukaki, the next glacial lake, where you’ll find ample freedom camping space.
Day 2: Lake Pukaki to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park
Drive time: 1 hour
Campsite: White Horse Hill Campground
Aoraki/Mt Cook is one of New Zealand’s most sought-after national parks. With plenty of walks and tramps to explore New Zealand’s tallest mountain, this playground shows off what the South Island has to offer.
What to do in Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park:
The Hooker Valley Track - an easy 10km return walk that crosses swing bridges and rivers. The track ends at iceberg-filled Hooker Lake, which greets the base of Aoraki. Walking this track just before sunrise rewards early risers with spectacular views of the mountain at dawn.
Sealy Tarns walk - a four-hour out-and-back that provides epic views of the Hooker Valley and takes walkers straight to the freshwater lakes of the Sealy Tarns.
Mueller Hut Route, a tough four-hour one-way track to an alpine hut. One of New Zealand’s most popular walks, this sought-after hut is often booked out months in advance, making a day walk a delightful idea.
Day 3: Aoraki/Mt Cook to Queenstown
Drive time: 3 hours
Campsite: Twelve Mile Delta Campsite, DOC
Queenstown is New Zealand’s adventure capital for a reason. The birthplace of bungee jumping, this growing town has plenty of mountain biking, skiing, swimming, and walking to tickle anybody’s fancy. Couple all that activity with a lively downtown, local wineries, and stunning lake vistas and you’ve got yourself a desirable hotspot.
What to do in Queenstown:
Twelve Mile Delta to Bob’s Cove Track - a 6.8km easy out-and-back track that walks through native bush and along the shoreline of Lake Wakatipu. Super handy if you’re camping there!
Visit a winery - Queenstown wineries are known for their pinot noir grapes, but that doesn’t stop them from branching out. If you prefer craft beers, check out the town’s emerging scene, here
A stop in Queenstown isn’t complete without a famous Fergburger. Indulge in their wide array of delicious, house-made burgers and save room for their bakery treats next door.
Day 4: Queenstown to Milford Sound
Drive time: 3.5 hours
Campsite: Cascade Creek Campsite
Fiordland National Park has captured the hearts of many around the world. A World Heritage Site, Fiordland’s landscape has been described as the eighth wonder of the world. You’ll see why when you head into this remote location where the mountains meet the sea and waterfalls cling to every cliffside. With plenty of walks and water sports to explore, you’ll want to make the most of your time in this corner of the world.
What to do in Milford Sound:
Fiordland is known for its Great Walks (three and counting!), but since time is limited we suggest getting a taste on the Routeburn Track to Earland Falls. This 7.5km one-way walk takes you past the Mackenzie hut to the 174m falls - a spectacular sight!
Lake Marian Track is another popular route that ends at an alpine lake in a hanging valley. A 3.1km one-way track crosses a swing bridge and crosses through native bush, complete with plenty of waterfalls.
Kayaking Milford Sound provides a unique perspective of the immense mountains carved by glaciers and cascading in waterfalls.
Day 5: Milford Sound to WAnaka
Drive time: 4.5 hours
Campsite: Glendhu Bay Motor Camp
Wanaka often tops visitors' favourites list. With a laid back vibe, easy-to-access lake, and buzzing (but not overwhelming) town, there’s plenty to do and see. The lake itself provides hours of entertainment for kayaking, SUPing, or swimming, plus plenty of walks in and around the water to keep you entertained.
What to do in Wanaka:
The Rob Roy Glacier Track is a 10km one-way easy tramp that affords walkers up-close-and-personal views of the glacier.
The Blue Pools Track offers a 3km one-way trip across swing bridges to viewing platforms of blue pools - a must-see!
If you tire of Lake Wanaka (how?!), be sure to head over to Lake Hawea, the lesser-known lake with equally stunning scenery and fewer crowds.
Day 6: Wanaka to Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers
Drive time: 4 hours
Campsite: Otto/MacDonalds Campsite
The Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers are stunning pieces of West Coast history that are worthy of a stop. The glaciers are receding, but remain impressive. The Otto/MacDonald campsite provides amazing views from across Lake Mapourika and is our favourite campsite in the South Island.
What to do in Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers:
If you’re keen to spend a little cash and get a once-in-a-lifetime experience, we recommend a helicopter glacier trek to Fox Glacier.
The Franz Josef Glacier Walk is a 30-minute walk that gets you as close as you can (powered by your own legs!) to the glacier.
Lake Matheson offers gorgeous views of Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mount Tasman, framed by the lake. The 2.6km loop is marked as easy.
Day 7: Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers to Hokitika
Drive time: 2 hours
Campsite: Goldsborough Campsite
A South Island trip itinerary isn’t complete without getting into the heart of the West Coast. Hokitika is a charming town set on the violent shores of the Tasman Sea with plenty of character to offer. Littered with its gold-mining history, the town has grown into a quirky downtown and plenty of exciting - and historic! - walks that tell the story of the land.
What to do in Hokitika:
The Hokitika beach houses the famous wooden Hokitika sign, created out of driftwood pieces that wash ashore. Take a stroll along the beach and you’ll see what we mean!
Try the Hokitika Gorge walk if you’re ready for some more bright blue pools to wow your senses. The 2km loop walks through native bush before popping out into the blue gorge.
If you’re up for a day trip, head to the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks to explore the pancake-shaped rock formations, blowholes, and surge pools - all impressive sights that you can walk the tops of.
Then head to the Truman Track, an easy 30-minute hidden gem that takes you through subtropical forests before leading you to a blowhole and waterfall.
Day 8: Hokitika to Arthur’s Pass
Drive time: 1.5 hours
Campsite: Andrews Shelter Campsite
Arthur’s Pass is a spectacular pass along the Southern Alps, and the perfect base for more mountain adventures. Nestled into the mountains is the quaint town, featuring basic supplies, a cafe, and a bar. Arthur’s Pass is an oft-moody backdrop, with hanging clouds and plenty of waterfalls after a good rain.
What to do in Arthur’s Pass:
Devil’s Punchbowl is a quick 1-hour return walk that ends in the spectacular 131m waterfall.
The Bealey Spur Track is a 6km one-way tramp that climbs through a mountain beech forest to breathtaking views of the valleys below and peaks above.
You won’t want to miss the Otira Viaduct Lookout as well, a beautiful lookout that often features a visit from New Zealand’s alpine parrot, the kea.
Day 9: Arthur’s Pass to Castle Hill
Drive time: 40 minutes
Campsite: Mistletoe Flats Campsite
Your last full day of this itinerary should explore a little more of Christchurch’s backyard. Just outside of Arthur’s Pass National Park are the local’s favourite spots. Between Castle Hill’s bouldering and unique landscape to the many peaks just waiting to be summited, this area is an outdoors-lover playground.
What to do in Castle Hill:
If you’re a boulderer, try your hand at Castle Hill’s world-class problems. If you’d rather remain grounded, take a picnic and sit among the boulders, made famous by Lord of the Rings.
Cave Stream is a popular hour day walk that meanders through the cave, giving walkers a unique perspective of Canterbury’s underground. Come prepared with a headlamp and appropriate clothing and even in-experienced cavers can give this one a try.
Day 10: Castle Hill to Christchurch
Drive time: 1.5 hours
After ten days touring the South Island of New Zealand - you’re done! With plenty of memories and hopefully a few good stories, you’ve seen some of this tiny island’s best spots. So be sure to give yourself plenty of time to return your mode of transportation and the city before heading back to the airport. We sure hope you enjoyed it, and we can’t wait to welcome you back!
If you’re ready to book your self-contained campervan for your South Island New Zealand road trip, we want to hear from you! You can check out all of our available vans here, or get in touch so we can help you find the best van for you.
Words by Ashlyn Oswalt. Images by Julie Gursha
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