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7-Day Road Trip Itinerary – South Island

7-Day Road Trip Itinerary – South Island

Prepare for a captivating 7-day journey through New Zealand’s South Island, where nature and culture seamlessly intertwine. 


Commencing in Christchurch, your adventure unfolds with each passing day. You’ll encounter stunning turquoise waters, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes, embracing a harmonious blend of experiences.


In this itinerary, you will find detailed information for each day, along with highlights at the end of each day of your trip.

Day 1: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

Your 7-day journey through the stunning South Island of New Zealand begins in Christchurch. On your first day, you’ll make your way to the picturesque Lake Tekapo, known for its vibrant turquoise waters, beautiful surroundings, and stargazing opportunities.

TimeActivityDetailsDistance (from Christchurch)
MorningDepart from ChristchurchStart your road trip adventure in Christchurch and head south.
 Visit the Church of the Good ShepherdMake a stop at the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd for scenic lake views.Approx. 220 km
LunchLunch in Lake TekapoEnjoy lunch in the charming town of Lake Tekapo.
AfternoonExplore Lake Tekapo and the Lupins (seasonal)Take a leisurely stroll around Lake Tekapo and, if in season, admire the vibrant lupins.
EveningStargazing (optional)Lake Tekapo is a Dark Sky Reserve; consider stargazing for a celestial experience.

Highlights:

  • Commence your South Island adventure by departing from Christchurch.
  • Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, a picturesque spot on the shores of Lake Tekapo.
  • Savor lunch in Lake Tekapo, a quaint town with stunning lake and mountain views.
  • Explore the natural beauty of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding area.
  • Optionally, enjoy a mesmerizing stargazing experience in one of the world’s Dark Sky Reserves.

lake tekapo

Day 2: Lake Tekapo to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

On the second day of your South Island journey, you’ll continue to explore the natural wonders of the region. Your destination is Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a place of extraordinary alpine beauty.

TimeActivityDetailsDistance (from Lake Tekapo)
MorningDrive to Aoraki/Mount Cook National ParkDepart from Lake Tekapo and head to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.Approx. 100 km
 Tasman Glacier Viewpoint (optional)Optionally, stop at the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint for incredible vistas.
LunchLunch in Aoraki/Mount Cook VillageEnjoy lunch in the charming village, surrounded by towering peaks.
AfternoonHooker Valley TrackEmbark on the Hooker Valley Track for a scenic hike with mountain views.
EveningExplore the Dark Sky ReserveAoraki/Mount Cook is part of a Dark Sky Reserve; consider stargazing at night.

Highlights:

  • Begin your day by traveling from Lake Tekapo to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Optionally, make a stop at the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint for breathtaking views of the glacier and surrounding landscape.
  • Enjoy lunch in Aoraki/Mount Cook Village, where you can admire the surrounding peaks.
  • In the afternoon, explore the Hooker Valley Track, a beautiful hike with stunning mountain views.
  • Given that Aoraki/Mount Cook is part of a Dark Sky Reserve, consider stargazing in the evening for a celestial experience.

mount cook

Day 3: Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park to Wanaka

On the third day of your South Island road trip, you’ll leave the spectacular Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park behind and make your way to the beautiful lakeside town of Wanaka.

TimeActivityDetailsDistance (from Aoraki/Mount Cook)
MorningDepart from Aoraki/Mount CookBegin your journey from Aoraki/Mount Cook and head to Wanaka.
 Scenic Drive via Lake PukakiEnjoy a scenic drive along the shores of Lake Pukaki with its vivid turquoise waters.
LunchLunch in Twizel or OmaramaStop for lunch in Twizel or Omarama, towns along the route with dining options.
AfternoonVisit the Clay Cliffs (optional)Optionally, make a detour to see the unique Clay Cliffs geological formation.Approx. 50 km
 Explore WanakaArrive in Wanaka, a picturesque lakeside town surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.Approx. 200 km
EveningRelax by Lake WanakaSpend the evening by Lake Wanaka, enjoying the serene lakeside atmosphere.

Highlights:

  • Start your day by leaving Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and enjoying the scenic drive along Lake Pukaki, known for its striking turquoise waters.
  • Stop for lunch in Twizel or Omarama, where you’ll find dining options and a chance to stretch your legs.
  • Optionally, consider a visit to the unique Clay Cliffs geological formation for a brief detour.
  • Arrive in Wanaka, a charming lakeside town surrounded by the Southern Alps, and explore its scenic beauty.
  • Spend the evening by the tranquil Lake Wanaka, taking in the serene lakeside atmosphere.

wanaka

Day 4: Wanaka to Queenstown

On the fourth day of your South Island road trip, you’ll continue your journey to the vibrant resort town of Queenstown. Queenstown is renowned for its stunning landscapes, adventure activities, and vibrant atmosphere.

TimeActivityDetailsDistance (from Wanaka)
MorningDepart from WanakaStart your day by departing from Wanaka and heading to Queenstown.
 Cardrona ValleyEn route, drive through the scenic Cardrona Valley, a beautiful alpine area.Approx. 35 km
LunchLunch in ArrowtownStop in the historic town of Arrowtown for lunch and exploration.Approx. 24 km
AfternoonExplore QueenstownArrive in Queenstown, a hub for adventure and relaxation. Explore the town and its attractions.Approx. 22 km
 Lake WakatipuStroll along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, admiring the stunning mountain backdrop.
EveningQueenstown Dining and EntertainmentEnjoy an evening of dining and entertainment in Queenstown, known for its vibrant nightlife.

Highlights:

  • Depart from Wanaka and journey through the picturesque Cardrona Valley, surrounded by alpine beauty.
  • En route to Queenstown, make a stop in the historic town of Arrowtown for lunch and exploration.
  • Arrive in Queenstown, a destination renowned for adventure activities and scenic beauty.
  • Take a leisurely walk along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, with views of the stunning Southern Alps.
  • Enjoy an evening of dining and entertainment in Queenstown, known for its vibrant nightlife and dining options.

arrowtown

Day 5: Queenstown and Surroundings

On the fifth day of your South Island road trip, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Queenstown and its beautiful surroundings, including scenic drives and outdoor activities.

TimeActivityDetailsDistance (from Queenstown)
MorningSkyline Gondola and Luge (optional)Optionally, take the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views and enjoy the luge track for fun.
 Drive to GlenorchyBegin a scenic drive from Queenstown to the picturesque town of Glenorchy.Approx. 45 km
LunchLunch in GlenorchyEnjoy a meal in Glenorchy, known for its stunning lakeside setting.
AfternoonExplore Paradise (optional)Optionally, take a side trip to the Paradise area, famous for its pristine landscapes.
 Jet Boating on the Dart River (optional)Optionally, enjoy a thrilling jet boat ride on the Dart River.
EveningReturn to QueenstownHead back to Queenstown and spend the evening in the vibrant town.Approx. 45 km

Highlights:

  • Optionally, begin your day with a visit to the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views of Queenstown and the surrounding area, and enjoy the luge track for some fun.
  • Embark on a scenic drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy, a town nestled between Lake Wakatipu and the mountains.
  • Savor lunch in Glenorchy, where you can take in the stunning lakeside setting.
  • Optionally, consider a side trip to the Paradise area, known for its pristine landscapes and as a filming location for “The Lord of the Rings” movies.
  • Thrill-seekers may opt for a jet boat ride on the Dart River for an adventurous experience.
  • Return to Queenstown in the evening, where you can explore the vibrant town and enjoy its dining and entertainment options.

queenstown

Day 6: Queenstown to Fiordland National Park (Te Anau)

On the sixth day of your South Island road trip, you’ll journey from Queenstown to the breathtaking Fiordland National Park, specifically to the charming town of Te Anau, known as the gateway to the Fiords.

TimeActivityDetailsDistance (from Queenstown)
MorningDepart from QueenstownBegin your day by departing from Queenstown and heading to Te Anau.
 The Remarkables Scenic Drive (optional)Optionally, take The Remarkables scenic drive for breathtaking alpine views.
LunchLunch in Kingston or MossburnStop for lunch in the quaint town of Kingston or the small settlement of Mossburn.Approx. 60 km
AfternoonTe Anau Glowworm Caves (optional)Optionally, explore the Te Anau Glowworm Caves for an underground adventure.Approx. 90 km
 Explore Lake Te AnauTake a leisurely stroll along the shores of Lake Te Anau, appreciating the serenity.
EveningTe Anau Town and DiningSpend the evening in the town of Te Anau and enjoy dining options.

Highlights:

  • Start your day by departing from Queenstown and heading to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.
  • Optionally, take The Remarkables scenic drive for incredible alpine views of the Southern Alps.
  • Enjoy lunch in the charming town of Kingston or the small settlement of Mossburn along the way.
  • Optionally, explore the Te Anau Glowworm Caves for an underground adventure in the afternoon.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the serene shores of Lake Te Anau, appreciating the natural beauty.
  • Spend the evening in Te Anau, exploring the town and enjoying dining options.

Lake Te Anau

Day 7: Te Anau to Milford Sound and Return to Queenstown

On the seventh and final day of your South Island road trip, you’ll embark on a memorable journey to the world-renowned Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most iconic and breathtaking natural wonders. You’ll then return to Queenstown to conclude your journey.

TimeActivityDetailsDistance (from Te Anau)
MorningDepart from Te AnauBegin your day by departing from Te Anau and heading to Milford Sound.
 Scenic Drive to Milford SoundEnjoy a scenic drive along the stunning Milford Road, taking in the dramatic landscapes.Approx. 119 km
LunchLunch in Milford SoundEnjoy lunch with views of the iconic fiord and its surrounding peaks.
AfternoonMilford Sound CruiseEmbark on a Milford Sound cruise, a chance to witness the fiord’s towering cliffs and waterfalls.
 Return to QueenstownAfter your Milford Sound adventure, start the journey back to Queenstown.Approx. 287 km
EveningJourney End in QueenstownArrive in Queenstown, concluding your 7-day road trip adventure through the South Island.

Highlights:

  • Begin your day by departing from Te Anau and embarking on a scenic drive to Milford Sound.
  • Marvel at the dramatic landscapes along the Milford Road as you make your way to the iconic Milford Sound.
  • Enjoy lunch in Milford Sound with stunning views of the fiord and its towering peaks.
  • Experience the beauty of Milford Sound up close with a memorable cruise, where you can admire the impressive cliffs and waterfalls.
  • After your Milford Sound adventure, start your journey back to Queenstown, which will include a longer drive through beautiful landscapes.
  • Arrive in Queenstown in the evening, concluding your 7-day road trip through the South Island of New Zealand.

milford sound

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