New Zealand Road Trip | South Island
New Zealand is a road tripper’s dream! With over 300 DOC (Department of Conservation) campsites available for public use, the Kiwis make it easy to enjoy the beautiful landscape. I firmly believe that vanlife is the only way to see New Zealand.
Below I’ve laid out a 2-week route through the South Island, which, if I’m being honest, is barely enough! This route minimizes drive times and mileage while seeing as much as possible on New Zealand’s more mountainous island. This is a loop route for people flying in and out of Christchurch, but can easily be adapted for alternative plans.
1) Christchurch
Suggested time here: 1 day
The largest city on the South Island and the second-largest in all of New Zealand, Christchurch is the perfect place to start your adventure from. Fly into the Christchurch airport, pick up your van and load up on groceries and anything else you need while you’re in the country’s capital.
Before you go, check out what the city has to offer, including the botanic gardens* and hiking the Godley Head Trail*, to name a couple.
Our campervan “Frankie”, parked in Kaikoura
2) Kaikōura
Drive time Christchurch to Kaikōura: 45 minutes
Suggested time here: 1-4 hours
After leaving Christchurch, head up the coast to Kaikōura. With panoramic views that blend mountains and sea, this quiet, coastal town is a popular stop for whale watching*. If a day at sea isn’t calling your name, consider a tour of the Maori Leap Cave* or even just lunch in the midst of a dazzling landscape.
Optional - Picton
Drive time Kaikōura to Picton: 45 minutes
If you’re planning to do the North Island too, catch a ferry to Wellington from Picton here! Check out the North Island Roadtrip Route.
Driving the South Island roads
3) Nelson*
Drive time Picton to Nelson: 2 hours
Drive time direct from Kaikōura: 3.25 hours
Suggested time here: 1 day
Nelson is a vibrant town on the north side of the South Island. It’s the perfect place to explore and enjoy some nightlife. Check out its local art scene, or hop on a bike and follow the Great Taste Trail around the region.
While you’re in Nelson, consider checking out the neighbouring Marlborough Region. Marlborough is a world-renowned wine region and is a must stop for wine experts and beginners alike. I was always more of a red wine girl until I got my hands on a Marlborough Sauv Blanc, known for its dry, acidic, fruity flavours (think: grapefruit notes). Stop into a winery for a tour and tasting!
Abel Tasman for a half-day kayak trip
4) Abel Tasman National Park
Drive time Nelson to Abel Tasman: 1 hour
Suggested time here: 2 days
If you thought New Zealand was only about mountains and sheep, Abel Tasman National Park is here to convince you that it has more to offer. Consider joining a kayaking tour through waters that will have you convinced you’ve teleported to a tropical paradise. Or stay on land and take a hike. Abel Tasman is home to the Coast Track, one of New Zealand’s “Great Walks” — though if you want to tackle that one, more than two days will be needed!
Standing in Arthur’s Pass, taking it all in
5) Arthur’s Pass
Drive time Abel Tasman to Arthur’s Pass: 5 hours
Suggested time here: 2 days
Whether you’re just passing through on a scenic drive or planning to enjoy some hikes in the Southern Alps, Arthur’s Pass is worth stopping for. Stay for a couple of days and explore the region. Here is the perfect place to begin checking off some South Island Treks.
View of Wanaka Lake from our campsite
7) Lake Wanaka
Drive time Mt Cook National Park to Lake Wanaka: 4 hours
Suggested time here: 2 days
Mountain landscape, serene lake, town with good bars and restaurants. What more could you be looking for? Wanaka is the closest town to the highly popular Roy's Peak hike, along with some other breathtaking treks in the area that shouldn’t be overlooked.
The city lights of Queenstown reflecting on the water at night
8) Queenstown
Drive time Lake Wanaka to Queenstown: 1 hour
Suggested time here: 2 days
The adventure capital lives up to its title! If you’re looking for excitement Queenstown is the perfect jumping-off point (no pun intended) for everything from bungee jumping to world-class golf courses.
Read more about Queenstown.
View of Mount Cook National Park from the Mueller Hut hike
9) Mount Cook National Park
Drive time Lake Pukaki to Mt Cook National Park: 1 hour
Suggested time here: 2 days
Home to New Zealand’s tallest peak, Mount Cook, the national park is one of the most awe-inspiring places I have ever been. Surrounded by snowy summits, alpine lakes, and so many trails to choose from, the National Park is the perfect place to stop for some memorable South Island views.
Read more about Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.
Lake Tekapo with pink and purple lupins lining the shore
10) Lake Tekapo
Drive time Mt Cook National Park to Lake Tekapo: 1.25 hours
Suggested time here: 1-3 hours
This gorgeous alpine lake is a shade of blue that truly doesn’t seem real. If you drive past, be sure to stop and take in the incredible mountain-lined view. If you’re lucky enough to visit during lupin season, the pinks and purples of the blooms contrast stunningly with the colour of the water.
Bonus: More to Explore
If you have the time to see more of the South Island, consider adding these stops to your list:
Franz Josef Glacier
Milford Sound
Dunedin
Stewart Island
