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New Zealand is an absolute dream and I am SO excited that you are planning your own bucket list vacay! From the sparkling blue waters of Tepeko to the towering mountains of Mount Cook, New Zealand is jam-packed with adventures. So, without further ado he re's the exact South Island New Zealand Road Trip itinerary I used. It's 9 days (+ 1 or 2 extra travel days) from Christchurch to Queenstown. This site contains affiliate links to products. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you. There are only products included that I truly love. I APPRECIATE your support! New Zealand South Island Quick Itinerary I know this super detailed and on-the-go itinerary may not be for everyone (although I'm biased and think it's the best one out there)...SO to save you a bit of time, check out this quick itinerary and map first. It'll give you a sneak peek as to what you can expect during this South Island New Zealand road trip! Starting Airport: Christchurch Ending Airport: Queenstown Total Driving Miles: ~658 miles (1060 km) Day 1 (Arrival): Christchurch to Akaroa (Arrival, Christchurch Gondola, Explore Akaroa) Day 2: Akaroa to Lake Tekapo to Twizel (Swmming with dolphins & Lupines at Lake Tekapo) Day 3: Twizel to Mount Cook to Twizel (Hooker Valley Trail & Dinner at Mount Cook) Day 4: Twizel to Wanaka (Peace Ring, Clay Cliffs, Wanaka Lavender Field, Happy Hour Cruise) Day 5: Wanaka to Haast to Wanaka (Haast Pass Waterfalls) Day 6: Wanaka to Queenstown (Roy's Peak Trail, Arrow Town) Day 7: Milford Sound (Scenic Plane and Boat Ride + Night Out in Queenstown) Day 8: Queenstown (Alta Lake Hike, Gondola, and Luge) Day 9: Departure (Fly out of Queenstown Airport) Sounds fun, right?! If so...keep reading for ALL.THE.DETAILS. Know Before You Go Visa Requirements: Most travelers, including those from the U.S., need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) to enter the country. Apply online in advance (there's an easy app). It was super simple to do, but can sometimes take up to 72 hours to be approved. Currency: The local currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for smaller towns. There were only several occasions where we ran into an "honors system" cash fee for some trails. Driving Tips: New Zealand’s roads are often narrow and winding. Stick to the speed limits, and allow extra time for scenic stops. + They drive on the right side of the car AND the left side of the road. This definitely takes some time to get used to. Here are 14 other common mistakes to avoid before your New Zealand Road Trip! Best Time to Plan a New Zealand South Island Road Trip We visited at the end of November and everything was absolutely perfect. This is the end of New Zealand's spring/start of summer. From the sunny days to the baby sheep, to (of course) the fields of lupines...it truly was magical. We also did not run into too big of crowds and we were able to book all hotels and tours just 2 months in advance. Here's a further breakdown into New Zealand's seasons/what to expect. Truly, there's not a bad time to visit this beautiful country. Just show up prepared with layers and rain gear and you will be a-okay! Spring (September-November): Ideal for blooming flowers, baby animals, and moderate temperatures. This itinerary took place in November, met with long daylight hours. Summer (December-February): Peak tourist season with warm weather, but accommodations fill quickly. Autumn (March-May): Known for stunning fall foliage and fewer crowds. Winter (June-August): Best for skiing, but some activities like hiking may be limited due to snow and ice. Driving can also be much more dangerous and intimidating during these months. Average Queenstown Temperatures by Month (and Average Rainfall) Although the weather will vary slightly on this specific road trip (as you travel over 600 miles around the country). Here are the average temperatures in Queenstown by month to give you an idea as to what to expect. MonthTemp (°F)Rainfall (inches)January50–723.1February49–712.5March47–682.4April43–632.4May37–552.6June33–502.2July31–492.5August33–532.4September38–572.4October41–612.6November45–662.6December48–702.8 Queenstown enjoys relatively consistent rainfall throughout the year, with slightly drier conditions in the late summer (February–March) and cooler, wetter weather during winter months (June–August). You can expect temperatures to be slightly warmer closer to Christchurch. Getting to Christchurch Christchurch International Airport (CHC) is the main gateway to the South Island. Most flights from the US will include a layover in Auckland or Sydney. Plan for a total travel time of 15-20 hours. It's a trek, BUT it is 1,000 percent worth the long travel days. Note! This itinerary flies into Christchurch and out of Queenstown (in order to make the most of your time). You could always reverse the order depending on the price of each flight. Renting a Car I HIGHLY recommend you rent a car right in Christchurch. This itinerary would be pretty impossible without the freedom of your own car. We booked through DiscoverCars with YES Rentals. It was extremely affordable and easy to use. They picked us up right from the airport (we just had to call upon arrival) and had us in our rental car within 15 minutes. I always like to save a bit of money on my rental car (as I like to splurge in other areas as you will sooooon find out below), but if you are okay with spending a bit more, you will find plenty of rental car companies right at the airport (no shuttle needed). You will pay an additional fee to drop the car off at a different location (Queenstown), but this was worth it to me in order to save 6 hours of drive time. Check out DiscoverCars for the best deals on Rentals from Christchurch! Driving in New Zealand Driving in New Zealand for the first time as a U.S. traveler requires some adjustments. You’ll drive on the left side of the road, and most cars are right-hand drive. Roundabouts are common, and you should yield to traffic on your right. Speed limits are in kilometers per hour, with highways typically at 100 km/h (62 mph). Rural roads may be narrow or winding, so drive cautiously. Always carry your U.S. driver’s license. Plan for frequent fuel stops, especially in remote areas. I can't personally speak to driving (because I was too scared to even try it lol), BUT from a passenger's perspective, it looked a bit challenging. There were several times that I wish I had taken motion sickness meds before the drive. 10-Day South Island New Zealand Itinerary FULL DETAILS Note: Day 0 will be a full day of traveling as the flight will be 14+ hours no matter where you are coming from in the United States. Also, due to the time difference, you will likely lose a day on the way to New Zealand (& gain it on the way back). Keep this in mind when planning your South Island vacay. Day 1: Arrival in Christchurch I HIGHLY recommend booking an overnight flight from your home airport and arriving in Christchurch at a decent time. This way, you will be more likely to sleep on the plane and ready to explore upon landing. Stop 1: Christchurch Gondola Drive time: 22 km ~30 minutes Once you have landed, pick up your rental and head to the Christchurch gondola for your first glimpse of the beauty of the South Island. Expect to spend 1 hour or so checking out the views at the top, hiking around the trails, and grabbing a bite to eat from the cafe. If you have more time, you could always do the Gondola and Tram combo to see even more of the city! Stop 2: Akaroa Drive time: 80 km ~1.5 hours Then, hop back in the car for a scenic road trip to Akaroa. This charming seaside town will be the home base for tomorrow's adventures. Depending on what time you arrive, you could stop visit the famous Alpackas, stop by the Lighthouse, or simply grab a bite to eat at the waterfront restaurant. We ate at Tini and it had the BEST sunset/waterfront views! Psst: Try the peach gin! It's delicious and I was obsessed all trip! Other Things to Do in Christchurch: Explore the Botanic Gardens: A peaceful retreat with beautifully landscaped gardens and walking trails. Visit the Canterbury Museum: Dive into New Zealand's cultural and natural history. Take a Tram City Tour: A unique way to see Christchurch’s historic and modern landmarks. Stroll along New Regent Street: This colorful street features cafes, boutique shops, and a lively atmosphere. Important Note: The road to Akaroa is WINDY. It was our first time ever driving on the left side of the road, so it was a bit of a tricky drive. Make sure you are comfortable first! Where to Stay: Akaroa Waterfront Motels Day 2: Akaroa Adventures Swimming with Dolphins with Black Cat Cruises! Stop 1: Swim with Dolphins Drive Time: 1 km ~5 min Start your morning with an unforgettable wildlife experience by swimming with the smallest and rarest dolphins in the entire world. We booked our tour with BlackCat Cruises and it was wonderful! We met at the dock and were given wetsuits and goggles. Then we headed out on the boat in search of the dolphins. We spotted several along the way, but the guides waited until we found "playful" ones that may not swim away. Then, we hopped in the water and let them swim around us. Check Current Pricing and Availablity Below! Stop 2 & 3: Onawe Peninsula dn Barry Bay Cheese Shop Drive Time: 15 km ~25 minutes We found a cute waterfront restaurant for a bite to eat (there are several to choose from) and then hit the road again. On your way out of Akaroa stop at the Onawe Peninsula for some quick views and the Barry Bay Traditional Cheese Shop to watch the cheese-making process and some delicious samples. Other Things to Do in Akaroa Pohatu Penguins Evening Experience: Join a 3-hour guided tour to visit a penguin colony, learn about conservation efforts, and observe the little penguins in their natural habitat. Guided Electric Mountain Bike Tour: Explore Akaroa and the surrounding landscapes on a guided e-bike tour, combining effortless cycling with stunning views of the harbor and countryside. 4WD Safari and Guided Sea Kayaking Experience: Embark on a combined 4WD safari and kayaking adventure, exploring rugged terrain, secluded bays, and marine wildlife in Akaroa’s stunning surroundings. Harbor Cruises: Explore Akaroa Harbour (without having to jump in) to see dolphins, seals, and penguins in their natural habitat. Akaroa Museum: Learn about the area’s Māori and French history through fascinating exhibits. The Giants House: Visit this whimsical art garden filled with colorful mosaics and sculptures. Stop 4: Lake Tekapo Drive Time: 265 km ~ 3 hours 35 minutes After leaving Akaroa, head south to Lake Tekapo. Famous for its sparkling blue water and fields of lupines. (My only goal in life now is to have a field of lupines outside my future home). We just spent an hour or so frolicking around the lake and walking over the bridge (we parked at the Church of The Good Shepherd). Then, we headed to TLV Restaurant (pictured below) for a dinner with a view. You'll see that this was a pattern of the trip! Other Things to do near Lake Tekapo Tekapo Springs: Unwind in hot pools with stunning lake views. They also have a stargazing experience you could check out! Stargazing at Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve: Experience crystal-clear night skies in one of the world’s best stargazing locations. Scenic Flights: Soar over Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook, and nearby glaciers for breathtaking aerial views. Cowans Hill Walkway: A gentle trail offering picturesque views of Lake Tekapo and its serene surroundings. Paddleboarding on Lake Tekapo: Glide across the turquoise waters of the lake and soak in the stunning alpine scenery. Where to Stay: Alps Motel Twizel (about a 40-minute drive away) Day 3: Explore Mount Cook National Park Stop 1: Hooker Valley Trail Drive Time: 58 km ~41 minutes This was one of the stops I was the most excited about during our South Island New Zealand road trip. The pictures looked so beautiful BUT the real thing was completely out of this world (as always). The stunning Hooker Valley Track (6.8 miles round trip) is an easy walk that offers unbeatable views of Mount Cook and Hooker Lake. Throughout the hike, you'll cross 3 swinging bridges and end at Hooker Lake. Stop 2: Dinner at the Hermitage Hotel After your day outside, treat yourself to a meal at the Hermitage Hotel. Depending on the season, you can either dine at the Panorama Room (3-course seated dinner) or the Alpine Restaurant (buffet). We made a reservation for the buffet. The views were amazing and the food was okay (it wasn't the best, but there was a wide variety). Where to Stay: Alps Motel Twizel (2nd night here) Day 4: Wanaka Wonders Today is a laid-back road trip day as you make your way to Wanaka! Feel free to add/change any of the stops below to make it fit your interests and needs! Stop 1: Peace Ring Drive Time: 11km ~ 11 minutes If you are a LOTR fan, this is a cool stop that is just 10ish minutes away from your hotel in Twizel. An individual created a gold ring in his yard that overlooks the fields from the Battle of the Pelennor Fields. He charges 10 dollars per person to visit! Stop 2: Clay Cliffs Drive Time: 47 km ~ 43 minutes After snapping a few pictures at the Peace Ring, head back on the road en route to Wanaka. Along the way, you'll find the unique Clay Cliffs near Omarama (about 10 km off the main road along a gravel and semi-rough road). Upon entry, you'll find a $5 honesty box and then a short uphill gravel trail to the clay cliffs. It reminded me a lot of the Badlands in South Dakota! Stop 3: Wanaka Lavender Farm Drive Time: 125 km ~ 1 hour 40 minutes Although we were a bit early for peak lavender, stopping at the Wanaka Lavender Farm was a fun spot to spend an hour or so. After paying your entry fee ($7-$15 depending on season), you are then free to explore the 20 acres. While strolling through the grounds, you'll find fun photo ops, farm animals, and of course, flowers. Don't forget to sample the lavender products inside before leaving! Pro tip! Lavender is typically in bloom from December to February. Stop 4: Wanaka Happy Hour Cruise Drive Time: 5 km ~ 10 minutes After checking into our hotel, we walked to the waterfront to board our happy hour boat cruise. It was a fun 1-hour ride that included a drink and cheese and crackers. It was a great way to see the best views of Wanaka. Then, we headed to Speight's Alehouse for another drink and dinner with a view. Stop 5: #ThatWanakaTree We ended the night by taking a sunset walk along the water to the famous Wanaka Tree! It was about 1.5 km from our hotel. Other Things to do in Wanaka Unwind with the SpaGazers experience, a hot tub under the stars with e-bike options available. Try the Waterfall Climb adventure with differing levels available. Where to Stay: Aspiring Lodge Motel Note: This is the one hotel in the itinerary, that I am not sure I would return to. There was no air or fan and it was pretty creeky/loud all night. HOWEVER, the location and price were absolutely perfect! Day 5: Road Trip Haast Pass and Surroundings Haast Pass reminded me slightly of the Road To Hana in Maui as it was such a scenic drive jam-packed with waterfalls and fun roadside views. Here are the stops we made! Stop 1: Blue Pools Drive time: 73 km ~1 hour Unfortunately, the bridge to the Blue Pools has been closed since August 2024. It is expected to open up soon, but be sure to check the status before making this stop. Stop 2: Fantail Falls Drive Time: 13 km ~ 12 minutes Fantail Falls is a picturesque 75-foot-high waterfall in Mount Aspiring National Park, named for its shape resembling a fantail bird's tail. It’s just a 2-minute walk (about 100 meters) from the car park along Haast Highway, making it an easy stop. Stop 3: Thunder Creek Falls Drive Time: 6 km ~ 7 minutes Thunder Creek Falls, nearby, is a stunning 92-foot waterfall cascading into the Haast River. The trail to the falls is a short 5-minute walk (about 200 meters) from the parking area, making it easily accessible for all visitors. This was the most breathtaking waterfall along the drive for sure! Also, the short rain forest walks are amazing! Stop 4: Roaring Billy Falls Drive Time: 18 km ~ 22 minutes I thought this was going to be the least exciting stop on the list, however, it blew me away just like the others. After a short hike through the rainforest, you arrive at the bluest water I've seen. If it wasn't raining, it would have been the best spot for a picnic! Stop 5: The Makarora County Cafe Drive Time: 55 km ~47 minutes (And, 59 km back to the hotel). After your day of chasing waterfalls, be sure to stop by the Makarora County Cafe. It gave all the Hallmarky vibes, was family-run, and was the perfect spot to grab a toasty and some ice cream. Other Stops along Haast Pass Haast River Lookout: A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the winding Haast River and surrounding mountains. Knights Point Lookout: A stunning coastal viewpoint with sweeping views of the Tasman Sea and rugged cliffs. Depot Creek Falls: A small but scenic waterfall just a short stroll from the roadside. Cameron Flat: A serene picnic spot with views of the river valley and surrounding peaks. The Haast Pass Summit Lookout: A marked viewpoint at the highest point of the pass, offering incredible vistas. Note: If you have the time, you could continue on the road to Monro Beach for some beautiful beach views and the chance to see a Fiordland Crested Penguin. The road was closed when we visited, so be sure to check for closures before making the trek. Where to Stay: Aspiring Lodge Motel (2nd Night) Day 6: Roys Peak I will admit that when I first saw this hike, I was terrified to attempt it. I saw the intense elevation gain and read the slightly intimidating reviews. However, the views got the best of me and I knew I had to try it. Spoiler: It was hard but 1000 percent worth it! Stop 1: Roys Peak Track Drive Time: 5 km ~ 6 minutes According to Alltrails, the track itself is a 10.1-mile (16 km) return hike, however, my Fitbit clocked in at 12.5 miles. The trek has a steady uphill climb, gaining 4,700+ feet in elevation. The trail is well-maintained but fully exposed, so sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water are essential. Start early to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler conditions, as this popular trail can get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons. The reward is breathtaking views of Lake Wanaka, the Southern Alps, and surrounding valleys, with the famous viewpoint located about three-quarters of the way up. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND continuing to the peak (after the popular photo point) for even better views. While challenging, the hike is achievable for those with moderate fitness and is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. It took us about 3 hours to make it to the very top and about 1.5 on the way down. It did KILL my knees on the way down though so poles could be helpful. Parking: There was a large free parking lot (with an honors box at the trailhead to hike). However, it was almost full when we arrived around 9am. I did see cars parking on the street and in a nearby paid lot after we were leaving. Stop 2: Drive to Queenstown Drive time: 68 km ~ 1 hour 15 minutes We of course celebrated our hike with a beer from a local Wanaka restaurant and then headed back on the road to Queenstown. If you have the time, you could make a pit stop in Arrowtown for a glimpse into the past and a bite to eat. Then, continue to Queenstown to check in to your hotel for the night. Where to Stay: La Quinta Queenstown Day 7: Queenstown and Milford Sound Stop 1: Milford Sound Scenic Flight & Boat Tour Drive Time: 2 km < 5 minutes This one is a splurge, but absolutely breathtaking and (IMO) worth every cent. Milford Sound Scenic Flights arranged for pick up right from our hotel and brought us to the airport. We then were quickly checked in an boarded our 6-seater plane. The views along the 40-minute ride to Milford Sound were out of this world. From the sparkling lakes to the snowcapped mountains, I was in awe the entire time. And the best part? Everyone was able to get a window seat! Views during our scenic flight! Whaaaattt?! After landing in Milford Sound, we took a short bus ride to the boats. We loaded the boat and toured around the lake for 2 hours. It was amazing to see the waterfalls up close! Then, we headed back to the plane for the return trip to Queenstown. Check pricing and availability for a Scenic Flight here! (They sell out a lot so book a few months in advance!) Stop 2: Night out in Queenstown Drive Time: 9.2 km ~20 minutes I love hiking and being outdoors, but I also love a fun night out. Queenstown was perfect for this! We took an Uber from our hotel and spent the night patio hopping (be sure to check out the floating bar. After the sun went down, we checked out one of the ice bars for another unique experience. Reservations were needed for this and you are given jackets, mittens, and options boots. There are 3 different ice bars downtown to choose from! Where to Stay: La Quinta Hotel (2nd night) Day 8: Queenstown Hiking, Gondola, and Luge We left this day a bit open (in case we needed flexibility with the flight), but we found some fun last-minute things to do in Queenstown! Stop 1: Lake Alta Trail Drive time: 18 km We started the day by taking a quick hike to Lake Alta. The trailhead was just 30 minutes from the hotel, however, the drive is up a mountain so be prepared for lots of tight turns. The trail itself starts at the Remarkables Ski Area and is just over 2 miles (there and back). It was steeper and a bit tougher than I expected though! Psst: Another scene from Lord of the Rings was filmed here! Stop 2: Skyline Queenstown Gondola and Luge Drive time: 23 km ~ 45 minutes After the hike, we headed back towards downtown Queenstown to check out the Gondola. We purchased tickets beforehand that included 3 Luge rides at top and the buffet dinner. The Gondola ride is short (just about 5 minutes), but offers beautiful views! Once at the top, we headed towards the Luge. You take another chair lift to the starting point and then ride the luge down. They were easy to learn, the views were great, and it was a fun way to spend 30ish minutes. Stop 3: Buffet Dinner Our final stop during our South Island New Zealand road trip was one last dinner with a view (it was a fav on this trip). We tried the buffet dinner at Stratosphere Restaurant (at the top of the gondola station). Once again, the views were great and the food was average. Where to Stay: La Quinta Hotel (3rd night) Day 9: Departure Unfortunately, day 9 was departure day. Our flight left bright and early so we didn't have time for any more adventures. However, if you have extra time (or days), here are some other things to do in Queenstown. Psst: There are extra ideas below for extending your entire New Zealand Road trip! Other Things to do in Queenstown Shotover Jet: Thrill yourself with a high-speed jet boat ride through the Shotover River canyons. Lake Wakatipu Cruise: Take a scenic cruise on the TSS Earnslaw steamship or explore the lake on modern boats. Queenstown Gardens: Stroll through beautiful botanical gardens with lake and mountain views. Wine Tours: Explore the wineries of the Gibbston Valley, known as the "Valley of Vines." Hiking and Biking: Hit trails like the Queenstown Hill Time Walk or the Ben Lomond Track for incredible vistas. Fergburger: Indulge in one of Queenstown's legendary burgers at this iconic eatery. Onsen Hot Pools:Relax in private, heated pools overlooking the Shotover River canyon. Paragliding: Soar over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu with expert guides. Skyline Stargazing: Experience the Southern Hemisphere’s night skies from one of the best vantage points. Tips for First-Time Visitors Driving: New Zealand drives on the left side of the road. Practice caution, especially on winding routes like Haast Pass. Weather: The weather can be a bit temperamental. Always pack layers and rain gear just in case! Booking: Many accommodations and activities offer free cancellation. Book early but keep flexibility. Cellphones: Make sure you check with your cellphone provider to see what international plan is available. We have AT&T so all we had to do was turn on the international plan and then pay $12 per day to use our phone. Extending Your Road Trip (Other Things to Do on the South Island) If you have extra time, consider adding these destinations and activities to your South Island itinerary! I would love to go back someday and check out the beaches on the northern side of the South Island (and of course the entire North Island). Fiordland National Park: Spend more time exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a hike on the Kepler Track or kayak in Doubtful Sound for a quieter alternative to Milford Sound. Abel Tasman National Park: Located at the northern tip of the South Island, this park offers golden beaches, turquoise waters, and kayaking opportunities. Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers: Take a guided glacier hike or a helicopter tour to experience these stunning ice formations. Kaikoura: Known for marine life, this is the best spot for whale watching, swimming with seals, or indulging in fresh crayfish. Stewart Island: New Zealand’s southernmost island is a haven for birdwatching and wilderness exploration. South Island New Zealand Summer Packing List Clothing: Lightweight layers for warm days and cool evenings Waterproof jacket and hiking pants Comfortable hiking boots or trail shoes Swimsuit for hot springs or water activities Casual outfits for evenings (We went out to dinner each night in our hiking gear, but we could have used a few slightly less casual outfits). Essentials: Sunscreen and sunglasses (UV is strong in New Zealand-We both got sunburned on the first hike) Reusable water bottle Insect repellent for sandflies, especially in Fiordland and coastal areas Travel adapter (New Zealand uses Type I plugs) Adventure Gear: Daypack for hikes Quick-dry towel Headlamp for early hikes or glowworm caves Other Items: Camera or smartphone with plenty of storage for capturing the incredible scenery Snacks and a small cooler for long drives (pick these up after you land in New Zealand as they will likely take most snacks during the declaration process at the airport). First-aid kit Driver's license & Passport Visa (via the app) 9-Day South Island New Zealand Sample Budget A trip to New Zealand could definitely be done on a smaller budget than below, however, I consider myself more of a mid-range traveler. I like to save money on cars, book middle-of-the-road hotels, and then splurge on the best things to do and delicious food and drinks. Here's an idea of what to expect if you use this South Island New Zealand road trip itinerary! Flights from the US: $1,500 pp (Our flights were slightly more expensive as we have to travel during holiday weeks as I am a teacher). Visa: $71 USD (for Visa and Tourism Levy) Rental Car: $550 USD Average Dinner Cost: $30-50 USD per dinner meal Average Drink Cost: $12-18 USD per drink Avg Nightly Hotel: $150 USD Swimming with Dolphins: $121 USD Scenic Airplane and Boat Tour: $408 USD pp Other Misc Fees (Gondolas, Happy Hour Boat, Ice Bar, Lavender Farm, etc): ~ $200 USD South Island New Zealand Itinerary Recap There ya have it! A complete and jam-packed South Island itinerary! If you have any other specific questions, you can always send me a message over on Instagram! Happy to help you plan your dream vacation!