10-Day Road Trip Itinerary – South Island

Day 1: Christchurch to Kaikoura

This first trip will take you from Christchurch to the coastal town of Kaikoura, allowing you to explore both cities with half a day in each.

Accommodation in Kaikoura: You can choose from various accommodation options in Kaikoura based on your preference and budget:

• Luxury: Hapuku Lodge and Tree Houses – A luxurious lodge with stunning ocean views and unique treehouse accommodation.
• Mid-Range: The White Morph Heritage – Comfortable, well-located motel-style accommodation with sea views.
• Budget: YHA Kaikoura – A budget-friendly hostel offering dorms and private rooms.

Highlights:

• In Christchurch, explore its cultural and natural attractions.
• The scenic drive from Christchurch to Kaikoura with breathtaking coastal views.
• In Kaikoura, experience the coastal beauty and potential marine wildlife sightings.

Please note that the drive from Christchurch to Kaikoura takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, so you’ll have a few hours to explore each city before checking in to your chosen accommodation in Kaikoura.

Day 2: Kaikoura to Nelson via Blenheim

On Day 2, you’ll travel from Kaikoura to Nelson, with a stop in Blenheim along the way. Blenheim is in the heart of Marlborough, famous for its wineries and vineyards.

Accommodation in Nelson: You have several accommodation options in Nelson:

• Luxury: The Boatshed – A boutique luxury hotel by the beach.
• Mid-Range: Trailways Hotel Nelson – A comfortable and centrally located hotel.
• Budget: Nelson YHA – A budget-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms.

Highlights:

• Enjoy the coastal beauty and potential marine wildlife sightings in Kaikoura.
• Explore the wineries and vineyards in Blenheim, a part of the Marlborough wine region.
• Arrive in Nelson for a relaxing evening in this charming city.

Day 3: Explore Nelson and Travel to Westport

Day 3 is dedicated to exploring the charming city of Nelson before heading to the historic town of Westport.

Accommodation in Westport: You can choose from several accommodation options in Westport:

• Luxury: Omau Settlers Lodge – A luxury lodge with stunning ocean views.
• Mid-Range: Buller Bridge Motels – Comfortable motel-style accommodation.
• Budget: Westport Kiwi Holiday Park – A budget-friendly holiday park offering cabins and campsites.

Highlights:

• Explore the vibrant Nelson Market and the city’s heritage attractions.
• Enjoy the scenic drive along the Buller Gorge on your way to Westport.
• Arrive in Westport and explore its historic sites or enjoy the coastal scenery.

Day 4: Westport to Hokitika via Greymouth

On Day 4, you’ll travel from Westport to Hokitika, making a stop in Greymouth along the way. Greymouth is a coastal town known for its history and scenic beauty.

Accommodation in Hokitika: You can choose from several accommodation options in Hokitika:

• Luxury: Teichelmann’s Bed & Breakfast – A luxurious and historic bed and breakfast.
• Mid-Range: Hokitika Beachfront Hotel – Comfortable beachfront accommodation.
• Budget: Driftwood House – Budget-friendly backpacker accommodation.

Highlights:

• Explore Westport, including Cape Foulwind and the Seal Colony.
• Visit Greymouth and consider a stop at Shantytown Heritage Park.
• Arrive in Hokitika and relax by the beach, or visit the famous Hokitika Gorge.

Day 5: Hokitika to Wanaka via Fox Glacier

On Day 5, you’ll travel from Hokitika to Wanaka, making a stop at Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier along the way. This route offers you the opportunity to explore the stunning glacier regions.

Accommodation in Wanaka: You can choose from several accommodation options in Wanaka:

• Luxury: Edgewater – A luxury lakeside resort.
• Mid-Range: Wanaka Hotel – Comfortable and centrally located.
• Budget: YHA Wanaka – A budget-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms.

Highlights:

• Visit Fox Glacier and take a guided glacier hike or enjoy the reflective beauty of Lake Matheson.
• Explore Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier regions, considering a helicopter tour for a glacier landing.
• Arrive in the picturesque town of Wanaka for the evening.

Day 6: Wanaka to Queenstown

On Day 6, you’ll begin in the scenic town of Wanaka, spend the morning exploring, and then travel to the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown.

Accommodation in Queenstown: You have numerous accommodation options in Queenstown to choose from, based on your preferences and budget.

• Luxury: Eichardt’s Private Hotel – A luxurious lakeside hotel.
• Mid-Range: Novotel Queenstown Lakeside – Comfortable, centrally located accommodation.
• Budget: Nomads Queenstown – A budget-friendly hostel with various room types.

Highlights:

• Spend the morning exploring Wanaka, visiting Puzzling World, or taking a scenic hike.
• Enjoy the picturesque drive from Wanaka to Queenstown.
• In Queenstown, explore the vibrant lakeside town with a variety of restaurants, shops, and activities.

Day 7: Queenstown Exploration

On Day 7, you’ll have a full day to explore the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown, and its surrounding attractions.

Highlights:

• Spend the morning exploring Queenstown’s attractions, including Queenstown Gardens and the panoramic views from the Skyline Gondola.
• In the afternoon, indulge in thrilling adventure activities like bungee jumping or jet boating.
• In the evening, savor dinner at one of Queenstown’s restaurants and experience the vibrant nightlife.

Day 8: Queenstown to Milford Sound and Back

On Day 8, you’ll embark on a day trip from Queenstown to the breathtaking Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders.

Highlights:

• Enjoy a picturesque drive through the Fiordland National Park on your way to Milford Sound.
• Explore Milford Sound on a nature cruise, where you’ll witness its dramatic waterfalls, towering cliffs, and stunning landscapes.
• Return to Queenstown in the evening with memories of one of New Zealand’s most remarkable natural wonders.

Please note that the drive to and from Milford Sound is a full-day trip, and you’ll spend the afternoon exploring the fiord. Make sure to book a Milford Sound cruise or tour in advance to maximize your experience.

Day 9: Queenstown to Lake Tekapo

On Day 9, you’ll travel from Queenstown to the serene Lake Tekapo, known for its stunning turquoise waters, scenic beauty, and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd.

Accommodation in Lake Tekapo: You can choose from several accommodation options in Lake Tekapo:

• Luxury: Peppers Bluewater Resort – A luxury lakeside resort.
• Mid-Range: Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park – Comfortable and family-friendly accommodation.
• Budget: YHA Lake Tekapo – A budget-friendly hostel with various room types.

Highlights:

• Enjoy a scenic drive through the stunning Southern Alps.
• Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, offering picturesque views of Lake Tekapo.
• Experience stargazing in one of the world’s best dark-sky reserves.

Lake Tekapo is known for its natural beauty and excellent stargazing opportunities, so make sure to enjoy its unique offerings during your stay.

Day 10: Lake Tekapo to Christchurch

On Day 10, you’ll travel from Lake Tekapo back to Christchurch, allowing you to spend the day exploring the vibrant city of Christchurch.

Accommodation in Christchurch: You can choose from various accommodation options in Christchurch based on your preferences and budget.

• Luxury: The George Christchurch – A luxury boutique hotel.
• Mid-Range: Novotel Christchurch Cathedral Square – Comfortable and centrally located.
• Budget: YHA Christchurch – A budget-friendly hostel with various room types.

Highlights:

• Enjoy a scenic drive through the Canterbury Plains on your way back to Christchurch.
• Explore Christchurch’s cultural and natural attractions, including the Canterbury Museum and Christchurch Botanic Gardens.
• Dine in one of Christchurch’s excellent restaurants and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife.

This itinerary allows you to make the most of your last day in New Zealand’s South Island by exploring the sights and sounds of Christchurch.