Embark on a 14-day adventure through the stunning landscapes and vibrant cities of New Zealand’s South Island.
This comprehensive itinerary takes you from Christchurch to destinations like Lake Tekapo, Dunedin, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Nelson, Kaikoura, Hanmer Springs, and back to Christchurch.
Discover natural wonders, cultural attractions, and thrilling adventures as you explore the scenic South Island. Engage in optional activities such as stargazing, jet boat rides, and wine tasting, all while savoring local cuisine.
Immerse yourself in the unique beauty and culture of New Zealand with this unforgettable journey.
Your 14-day New Zealand adventure begins in Christchurch, the largest city on the South Island.
From Christchurch, you’ll make your way to Lake Tekapo, a stunning glacial lake known for its turquoise waters, breathtaking surroundings, and excellent stargazing opportunities. On your way, you’ll stop in Ashburton, a charming town offering a glimpse of local life.
Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
---|---|---|---|
Morning | Depart from Christchurch | Start your journey from Christchurch heading south. | – |
Mid-Morning | Drive to Ashburton | Enjoy the scenic drive to Ashburton, a charming town known for its farming heritage and friendly atmosphere. | 85 km |
Lunch | Lunch in Ashburton | Savor a meal at a local cafe or restaurant in Ashburton. | – |
Afternoon | Continue the drive to Lake Tekapo | Depart from Ashburton and continue your journey to Lake Tekapo. | 100 km |
Evening | Arrival in Lake Tekapo | Arrive in Lake Tekapo, take in the stunning lake views, and check into your accommodation. | – |
Stargazing at the Dark Sky Reserve (optional) | Lake Tekapo is part of the Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, offering excellent stargazing. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 2 of your New Zealand adventure, you’ll leave the stunning Lake Tekapo and make your way to the vibrant city of Dunedin on the southeastern coast of the South Island.
Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the coastal towns of Timaru and Oamaru, each with its own unique charm and attractions.
Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
---|---|---|---|
Morning | Depart from Lake Tekapo | Leave Lake Tekapo and start your journey southward. | – |
Morning Scenic Drive | Enjoy the picturesque drive through the South Canterbury region. | – | |
Mid-Morning | Stop in Timaru | Explore Timaru, a charming coastal town with beautiful gardens and historic architecture. | 70 km |
Morning Tea in Timaru (optional) | Optionally, stop for a morning tea at a local cafe or bakery. | – | |
Lunch | Continue to Oamaru | Depart from Timaru and continue your journey to Oamaru. | 100 km |
Lunch in Oamaru | Have lunch in Oamaru, known for its Victorian-era architecture and vibrant art scene. | – | |
Afternoon | Explore Oamaru | Spend the afternoon exploring Oamaru’s historic precinct, the Steampunk HQ, and the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony. | – |
Late Afternoon | Continue the drive to Dunedin | Leave Oamaru and head to Dunedin, known for its Scottish heritage, vibrant arts, and wildlife encounters. | 115 km |
Evening | Arrival in Dunedin | Arrive in Dunedin, check into your accommodation, and take in the evening atmosphere. | – |
Highlights:
Today, you’ll journey from Dunedin to Invercargill, exploring the South Island’s southern coast.
Your day will include exploring Dunedin’s attractions in the morning, visiting Invercargill in the afternoon, and enjoying Invercargill’s charm in the evening.
Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
---|---|---|---|
Morning | Explore Dunedin’s Historic and Cultural Sites | Spend the morning exploring Dunedin’s historic precinct, including the Dunedin Railway Station, the University of Otago, and Otago Museum. | – |
Visit the Royal Albatross Centre (optional) | Optionally, take a guided tour to see the royal albatross colony at Taiaroa Head. | 30 km | |
Lunch | Lunch in Dunedin | Enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of Dunedin’s cafes or restaurants. | – |
Afternoon | Journey to Invercargill | Leave Dunedin in the afternoon and begin your drive to Invercargill. | 215 km |
Evening | Arrival in Invercargill | Arrive in Invercargill, check into your accommodation, and prepare for the next day’s adventures. | – |
Invercargill Exploration | Spend the evening exploring Invercargill’s downtown area, with its wide streets, impressive architecture, and numerous cafes and restaurants. | – | |
Visit the E Hayes & Sons Motorworks Collection (optional) | Optionally, visit the famous E Hayes & Sons Motorworks Collection, known for its motorcycle memorabilia and exhibits. | – |
Highlights:
Today, you’ll leave Invercargill and head to Queenstown, one of New Zealand’s most popular and vibrant destinations. Queenstown is known for its stunning lakeside location, adventure activities, and beautiful landscapes.
You’ll spend the entire day in Queenstown, so there will be plenty of time to explore this remarkable place.
Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
---|---|---|---|
Morning | Depart from Invercargill | Start your journey from Invercargill heading north to Queenstown. | 188 km |
Morning Scenic Drive | Enjoy the scenic drive through the Southland region and into Central Otago. | – | |
Lunch | Lunch in Queenstown | Arrive in Queenstown and have lunch at one of the town’s many restaurants or cafes. | – |
Afternoon | Explore Queenstown’s Lakeside Setting | Spend the afternoon exploring Queenstown’s picturesque lakeside location, taking in the stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range. | – |
Adventure Activities (optional) | Queenstown is renowned for adventure activities like bungee jumping, jet boating, and skydiving. Consider trying one of these thrilling experiences. | – | |
Evening | Dinner and Evening Entertainment in Queenstown | Enjoy a delightful dinner in one of Queenstown’s fine restaurants and explore the town’s vibrant evening atmosphere. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 5, you’ll continue your exploration of Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of New Zealand. This day’s activities will offer a different set of thrilling adventures and unique experiences.
Time | Activity | Details |
---|---|---|
Morning | Skyline Gondola and Luge | Take a ride on the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak for panoramic views, and enjoy the thrilling luge ride back down. |
Explore Queenstown Gardens | Stroll through Queenstown Gardens, a serene oasis located along the shores of Lake Wakatipu. | |
Lunch | Lunch in Queenstown | Have lunch at a local restaurant or cafe. |
Afternoon | Shotover Jet Boat Ride | Experience the exhilarating Shotover Jet Boat Ride through the narrow canyons of the Shotover River. |
Visit Arrowtown | Drive to Arrowtown, a charming historic gold-mining town, and explore its picturesque streets. | |
Evening | Fergburger for Dinner | Try a famous Fergburger, known for its delicious gourmet burgers, for dinner. |
Stargazing Experience | Join a stargazing tour to witness the spectacular southern night sky in the Queenstown area. |
Highlights:
On Day 6, you’ll embark on a breathtaking journey from Queenstown to Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most iconic and stunning natural wonders.
You’ll spend the day exploring Milford Sound’s captivating landscapes and return to Queenstown in the evening, allow 8h time for driving as you won’t be able to spend the night on Milford Sound.
Time | Activity | Details |
---|---|---|
Early Morning | Depart from Queenstown | Start your journey from Queenstown to Milford Sound. |
Morning | Scenic Drive to Milford Sound | Enjoy a picturesque drive through Fiordland National Park, with opportunities to stop and admire the scenery. |
Mirror Lakes (optional stop) | Optionally, make a brief stop at Mirror Lakes for stunning reflections on a calm day. | |
The Chasm (optional stop) | Optionally, visit The Chasm, where you can see the powerful Cleddau River cut through impressive rock formations. | |
Lunch | Picnic Lunch in Milford Sound | Have a picnic lunch amid the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Milford Sound. |
Afternoon | Milford Sound Cruise | Embark on a Milford Sound cruise to get up close to its famous waterfalls, towering peaks, and marine life. |
Evening | Return to Queenstown | Drive back to Queenstown, taking in the stunning views along the way. |
Dinner in Queenstown | Enjoy dinner at a Queenstown restaurant. |
Highlights:
On Day 7, you’ll leave Queenstown and head to the beautiful towns of Wanaka and Haast, both known for their stunning lakeside settings and outdoor activities.
This day is split between exploring Wanaka in the first half and reaching Haast in the second half.
Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
---|---|---|---|
Morning | Depart from Queenstown | Start your day in Queenstown and make your way to Wanaka. | 68 km |
Morning Scenic Drive to Wanaka | Enjoy a scenic drive along Lake Wanaka, taking in the beautiful surroundings. | – | |
Puzzling World (optional) | Optionally, visit Puzzling World, an attraction featuring optical illusions and a great maze. | – | |
Lunch | Lunch in Wanaka | Have lunch at one of Wanaka’s restaurants or cafes. | – |
Afternoon | Explore Wanaka | Spend the afternoon exploring Wanaka’s vibrant town center, taking in the views of Lake Wanaka, and perhaps engaging in watersports or hiking. | – |
Drive to Haast | Leave Wanaka and drive to Haast, a serene location near Wanaka. | 10 km | |
Evening | Arrival in Haast | Arrive in Haast, check into your accommodation, and enjoy the serene lakeside setting. | – |
Dinner in Haast (optional) | Optionally, dine at a local restaurant in Haast. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 8, you’ll continue your journey from the tranquil town of Haast, stopping in Franz Josef before reaching the charming town of Hokitika.
You’ll have the opportunity to explore both Franz Josef and Hokitika’s attractions, making it a day filled with natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
---|---|---|---|
Morning | Depart from Haast | Start your day in Haast and head north to Franz Josef. | – |
Scenic Drive along the West Coast | Enjoy a picturesque drive along the stunning West Coast of the South Island. | – | |
Explore Franz Josef Glacier (optional) | Optionally, visit Franz Josef Glacier, a natural wonder known for its accessibility and stunning landscapes. | 130 km | |
Lunch | Lunch in Franz Josef | Have lunch in Franz Josef, enjoying a meal at a local eatery. | – |
Afternoon | Continue the Drive to Hokitika | Leave Franz Josef and proceed with your journey to Hokitika. | 150 km |
Explore Hokitika Beach and Town | Spend the remainder of the afternoon in Hokitika, exploring the beach, town, galleries, shops, and Hokitika Gorge if time allows. | – | |
Hokitika Craft Trail (optional) | Optionally, explore the Hokitika Craft Trail, which showcases the work of local artisans in pounamu (greenstone), wood, and more. | – | |
Evening | Sunset at Hokitika Beach | Enjoy a beautiful West Coast sunset at Hokitika Beach. | – |
Dinner in Hokitika | Savor dinner at a Hokitika restaurant and explore the town’s evening atmosphere. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 9, you’ll leave Hokitika and head north, making stops in Greymouth and Westport, as you continue your journey to the vibrant city of Nelson.
This day will provide opportunities to explore the West Coast’s attractions and scenic beauty.
Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
---|---|---|---|
Morning | Depart from Hokitika | Start your day in Hokitika and journey north to Greymouth. | – |
Scenic Drive to Greymouth | Enjoy a scenic drive along the West Coast, taking in the coastal views. | – | |
Explore Greymouth | Spend the morning exploring Greymouth, known for its history, arts, and nearby attractions like Shantytown. | – | |
Lunch | Lunch in Greymouth | Have lunch at a local restaurant or cafe in Greymouth. | – |
Afternoon | Continue to Westport | Leave Greymouth and head north to Westport, another charming West Coast town. | 100 km |
Explore Westport | Spend the afternoon exploring Westport’s beaches, arts scene, and perhaps visit the Coaltown Museum. | – | |
Evening | Continue to Nelson | Depart from Westport and continue your journey to Nelson. | 215 km |
Arrival in Nelson | Arrive in Nelson, check into your accommodation, and prepare for your stay in this lively city. | – | |
Dinner in Nelson | Enjoy dinner at a Nelson restaurant and experience the city’s vibrant dining scene. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 10, you’ll immerse yourself in the vibrant city of Nelson, known for its art, culture, outdoor activities, and beautiful surroundings. Take your time to explore the city’s attractions and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Time | Activity | Details |
---|---|---|
Morning | Nelson City Exploration | Begin your day by exploring Nelson’s city center. Stroll along Trafalgar Street, visit local boutiques, and admire the architecture. |
Suter Art Gallery | Visit the Suter Art Gallery, a renowned gallery showcasing New Zealand and international art. | |
Lunch | Lunch in Nelson | Have lunch at one of Nelson’s delightful cafes or restaurants. |
Afternoon | Nelson Provincial Museum | Explore the Nelson Provincial Museum to learn about the region’s history and culture. |
Walk in Queen’s Gardens | Take a leisurely walk in Queen’s Gardens, a tranquil park located near the city center. | |
Local Boutiques and Art Galleries | Visit local boutiques and art galleries, discovering unique pieces of art and crafts. | |
Evening | Dinner and Live Music (optional) | Optionally, enjoy dinner at a restaurant featuring live music, contributing to Nelson’s vibrant nightlife. |
Highlights:
On Day 11, you’ll leave Nelson and continue your journey to Kaikoura. Along the way, you’ll make stops in Picton and Blenheim, allowing you to explore these charming towns and their attractions.
Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
---|---|---|---|
Morning | Depart from Nelson | Start your day in Nelson and drive to Picton. | – |
Scenic Drive to Picton | Enjoy a picturesque drive through the stunning Marlborough region. | – | |
Explore Picton | Spend the morning exploring Picton, known for its picturesque harbor and waterfront. Visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum and enjoy the cafes. | – | |
Lunch | Lunch in Picton | Have lunch at one of Picton’s waterfront restaurants or cafes. | – |
Afternoon | Continue to Blenheim | Depart from Picton and drive to Blenheim, situated in the heart of Marlborough’s wine country. | 28 km |
Wine Tasting in Blenheim (optional) | Optionally, indulge in wine tasting at one of Blenheim’s renowned vineyards. | – | |
Explore Blenheim | Spend the afternoon exploring Blenheim, visiting the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, local shops, and the Pollard Park. | – | |
Evening | Continue to Kaikoura | Drive from Blenheim to Kaikoura, arriving in this coastal town known for its marine wildlife. | 137 km |
Arrival in Kaikoura | Arrive in Kaikoura, check into your accommodation, and prepare for your stay in this unique coastal setting. | – | |
Dinner in Kaikoura | Enjoy dinner at a Kaikoura restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and local cuisine. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 12, you’ll leave the coastal town of Kaikoura and head to Hanmer Springs, a popular destination known for its natural hot springs and outdoor activities.
This day is split between a half-day in Kaikoura and another half-day in Hanmer Springs.
Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
---|---|---|---|
Morning | Depart from Kaikoura | Start your day in Kaikoura and prepare for the journey to Hanmer Springs. | – |
Morning in Kaikoura | Spend the morning in Kaikoura, perhaps enjoying coastal walks, visiting the Kaikoura Peninsula, or engaging in marine wildlife encounters. | – | |
Lunch | Lunch in Kaikoura | Have lunch at a local restaurant or cafe in Kaikoura. | – |
Afternoon | Scenic Drive to Hanmer Springs | Leave Kaikoura and drive to Hanmer Springs, enjoying a scenic journey through the mountains. | 132 km |
Arrival in Hanmer Springs | Arrive in Hanmer Springs, check into your accommodation, and prepare for your stay in this alpine village. | – | |
Afternoon in Hanmer Springs | Spend the afternoon exploring Hanmer Springs, taking a dip in the natural hot pools, or going for a walk in the nearby forests. | – | |
Evening | Dinner in Hanmer Springs | Enjoy dinner at a Hanmer Springs restaurant, featuring cuisine inspired by the region’s natural beauty. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 13, you’ll leave the alpine village of Hanmer Springs and return to Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island.
You’ll have the day to explore Christchurch’s attractions and enjoy its vibrant urban culture.
Time | Activity | Details | Distance |
---|---|---|---|
Morning | Depart from Hanmer Springs | Begin your day in Hanmer Springs and drive south to Christchurch. | 133 km |
Scenic Drive to Christchurch | Enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque landscapes of the South Island. | – | |
Lunch | Lunch in Christchurch | Arrive in Christchurch and have lunch at one of the city’s restaurants or cafes. | – |
Afternoon | Explore Christchurch | Spend the afternoon exploring Christchurch’s key attractions, including the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, the Canterbury Museum, and the Transitional Cathedral. | – |
Punting on the Avon River (optional) | Optionally, enjoy a traditional punt ride on the Avon River, a serene way to view the city. | – | |
Evening | Dinner in Christchurch | Savor dinner at a Christchurch restaurant, experiencing the city’s diverse culinary scene. | – |
Highlights:
On Day 14, you’ll continue your exploration of Christchurch, making sure to experience different activities and attractions than those on Day 13.
This full day in Christchurch offers you the opportunity to delve deeper into the city’s unique culture and sights.
Time | Activity | Details |
---|---|---|
Morning | Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū | Start your day at the Christchurch Art Gallery, known for its impressive collection of New Zealand and international art. |
Riverside Market | Visit the Riverside Market, a lively hub of food, drinks, and local products. | |
Lunch | Lunch at Riverside Market | Enjoy lunch at one of the diverse food stalls within Riverside Market. |
Afternoon | Quake City | Explore Quake City, an interactive exhibition that provides insights into Christchurch’s earthquake history and recovery. |
Christchurch Tramway Restaurant (optional) | Optionally, embark on a dining experience on the Christchurch Tramway Restaurant, which combines fine dining with a historic tram ride. | |
Evening | Botanic Gardens and Avon River Walk | Stroll through the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and enjoy a relaxing walk along the Avon River. |
Dinner in the Central City | Conclude your day with dinner at a restaurant in the central city, savoring a different culinary experience. |
Highlights:
Kiwilanders is a directory and blog featuring informational and recreational content about New Zealand.