New Zealand’s South Island is an adventurer’s paradise. It is the perfect destination for an unforgettable road trip, camping escapade, or camper-van journey. In a matter of hours, you can seamlessly transition from the rugged beauty of Milford Sound’s fjords to the sun-kissed beaches of Abel Tasman, traverse the heart of the Southern Alps, and even embark on a trek across the majestic Fox & Franz Josef glaciers. Here’s our guide for a two-week road trip across the South Island, where we provide driving times, must-do activities, and accommodation options for both campers and non-campers.
You can modify this itinerary depending on how much time you have. Whether you’re in pursuit of adrenaline-fueled adventures or the tranquility of serene landscapes, the South Island beckons with open roads and breathtaking scenery. We hope this guide helps you create an adventure you will always remember.
CAMPING & CAMPERVANNING IN NEW ZEALAND
Camping and camper-vanning are excellent, popular ways to explore New Zealand. There is a mix of private and public campsites all over the country. You can easily book campsites on the NZ recreation website at bookings.doc.govt.NZ.
Camping in New Zealand is a little different compared to the US. Many sites do not allow fires, so plan accordingly. Most campsites are crowded and tight do not expect to have a large isolated area to yourself, but it is a great way to make new friends.
WHERE TO RENT A NEW ZEALAND CAMPERVAN
We rented our campervan from Jucy Rental, known for their vibrant green and purple vans, but you can also look into MadCampers, Britz Campervans, or Wicked Campers. Use the website MadCampers.co.NZ or Motorhome Republic to compare prices and availability.
HOW TO CHOOSE A NZ CAMPERVAN
If going the campervan route you will have to make two major decisions:
- Powered or non-powered: Powered vehicles are larger and need to be plugged in at night. You will only be able to use powered campsites and will have to be comfortable driving a larger vehicle on windy roads, but will have more space and amenities.
- Self-contained or not: Self-contained vehicles basically mean you have some sort of bathroom set-up. It doesn’t necessarily mean a full toilet, but some mechanism which allows you to collect your own waste. The main advantage of a self-contained vehicle is it allows you to “wild camp” at campsites without bathroom facilities. If you like to get to some really remote and more isolated campsites, you will have more options with a self-contained vehicle, but these tend to be pricier.
HOW TO FIND NZ CAMPSITES
The best way to find a campsite is by using an app. We used Rankers but some people also recommend CamperMate.
Make sure to connect the app to Wi-Fi before starting your road trip in order to download the offline maps available on each app. This will be clutch as your service will likely be spotty during the trip.
NEW ZEALAND 2 WEEK ROAD TRIP
DAY 1: CHRISTCHURCH TO LAKE PUKAKI
Driving time: 4 hours
CHRISTCHURCH
Christchurch is a good starting point for your South Island road trip as you can fly into the Christchurch International Airport (CHC) and stock up on goods. Would not spend much more time here as it is mostly urban and residential.
Countdown is a grocery store chain that you can find in many of the larger cities. Pak’n Save has the best prices. The Warehouse is like a Walmart.
The first half of the drive is mostly sheep, sheep, and more sheep. Remember, in New Zealand you drive on the left side of the road.
GERALDINE/PEEL FOREST
After you stock up, head southwest on HWY1 towards the mountain range. About halfway, you will drive through the quaint town of Geraldine which is a good rest point. There is a fantastic brunch spot, Verde, where you can enjoy delicious quiches in their lovely garden.
- Late start? If you have enough daylight, definitely drive all the way to Lake Tekapo or Lake Pukaki (3-4 hours). We had to stop halfway as we were running out of daylight. Peel Forest is an old conifer forest with a Department of Conservation (DOC) campground where we spent the night. It had clean bathrooms, hot showers and cost $25/person. There is a short trail that leads to a peaceful river access.
LAKE TEKAPO
Continue onto the majestic Lake Tekapo which literally looks like the color of my favorite childhood blue ice pops. We highly recommend jumping in for a cold plunge or picnicking along the lake.
There are several trails that take you around the lake or to viewpoints. This area is one of the 12 International Dark Sky Reserves so it is an excellent location for star gazing. If you have extra time, take an evening soak in the hot pools at Tekapo Springs and Spa and watch for shooting stars.
*LAKE PUKAKI/TWIZEL
30 minutes further is Lake Pukaki, just as stunningly blue as Lake Tekapo but now with Mount Cook as your backdrop. There is a great little secret beach to swim at if you take a right onto Hayman Road.
There is a small town nearby called Twizel where you can grab a beer and pub food at Ministry of Works Bar & Eatery. The brunch menu at Mint Folk & Co looked amazing but was already over by the time we got there.
- Fun Fact: The milky turquoise blue color of Lake Tekapo and Lake Pukaki comes from “rock flour”, which is made from glacier rubbing against the rocky bottom of the lake’s basin.
WHERE TO STAY
If camping: Continuing half an hour north on an incredible drive you will reach Glentanner. We stayed at Glentanner Park Centre for $25/person. It was a massive complex with stunning Mount Cook views, Lake Pukaki access, kitchens, clean bathrooms/showers and tour operators. Highly recommend.
If not camping: Lakestone Lodge has absolutely incredible views of Mount Cook and the super blue Lake Pukaki.
DAY 2: LAKE PUKAKI TO AORAKI/MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK
Driving time: 45 minutes
*MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK
From Lake Pukaki, the epic drive only gets more beautiful as you approach closer to Mount Cook. This may be one of the most beautiful drives of New Zealand. Take a moment to stop by Peter’s viewpoint on the way up.
It takes 45 minutes to get to Mount Cook Village and Mount Cook National Park. Mount Cook is the tallest mountain in New Zealand at 12,218 feet (3,724 meters) above sea level. More than one third of the park is permanently covered in snow or glacial ice.
Stop by the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park Visitor Center to learn more about the area and to get up-to-date information about weather and trek conditions.
- Fun Fact: The Māori name for Mount Cook is Aoraki, named after a deity which means “Cloud Piercer”. The English name Mount Cook is in honor of explorer Captain James Cook.
*HOOKER VALLEY TRACK
If there is only one hike you do in all of New Zealand, make it the Hooker Valley Track. It only takes about 3 hours roundtrip and is an easy, mostly flat hike with three suspension bridges and jaw-dropping views throughout.
The trek, or track as the kiwis call it, starts at White Horse Hill Campground. After the second bridge, Mount Cook will dominate your view and the trek ends at Hooker Glacier and its lake. Suitable for all ages and skill levels this is a MUST-DO. Bring water, lunch, and sun protection.
- Pro tip: Keep an eye and ear out for floating icebergs and chunks of ice breaking off the glacier.
OTHER HIKES
Kea Point starts at the visitor center and takes 2 hours round trip. It ends with views of Mount Cook and Hooker Valley.
Tasman Glacier View Track starts at the Blue Lakes shelter and takes only 30 minutes. The path is mostly stairs but you will be rewarded with a nice viewpoint and can also do a side trip to Blue Lakes.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
You can also kayak or paddle board to the lakes of Tasman or Mueller Glacier. Visit Old Mountaineer’s Cafe to look into booking options.
There are many scenic flight options that can get you aerial views of Mount Cook. These are usually in a helicopter or ski plane and some even offer a glacier landing.
WHERE TO STAY
If camping: Try to grab a spot at White Horse Campground which is where the Hooker Valley Track starts from. It has amazing views but must be booked in advance on the DOC website.
If not camping: Wyn Irwin Lodge or The Hermitage Hotel also have stunning views and look very nice.
DAY 3: EXPLORING AORAKI/MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK
No driving!
This area is incredible so you will definitely want to give yourself at least one more day to explore. Consider kayaking, a scenic flight tour, or go on another track.
MUELLER HUT TRACK
This is also a great day to do the popular Mueller Hut Track. This hike gives you 360-degree views of Mount Cook and the surrounding peaks. There are several ways to approach this hike:
- If you are an advanced hiker and are short on time: Do Mueller Hut as a day hike. It takes 4 hours to reach the hut, so give yourself at least 8 hours as an out and back. Round trip will be about 12 miles. This is a difficulty track which should only be attempted if you have proper gear and hiking experience.
- If you are an advanced hiker and have time: Book an overnight reservation to stay in Mueller hut, which has 28 bunks, gas, cooking facilities, and toilets. This will allow you to further explore the area without a time crunch. You can book a night in Mueller hut at the DOC website here.
- If you are a not-so-advanced hiker: Do the Sealy Tarns Track instead. It branches off the Kea Point Track (see above) and takes you about half way up to Mueller Hut. You will still get nice views of Hooker Valley and will avoid the sketchier parts of the higher elevation climb. There are picnic tables at the end so bring lunch.
WHERE TO STAY
If camping: Second night at White Horse Campground or book a night at Mueller Hut.
If not camping: Second night at Wyn Irwin Lodge or Hermitage.
DAY 4: MOUNT COOK TO QUEENSTOWN
Driving time: 3-4 hours
LINDIS PASS
Take Hwy 8 south to start heading towards Queenstown. Add Lindis Pass to your route to stay on the scenic portion. This mountain pass gives you views between two huge valleys.
At Cromwell, switch to Hwy 6 which will take you by tons of vineyards and down a very winding mountain road into Queenstown.
QUEENSTOWN
Queenstown is one of our favorite urban cities in the entire world. It is beautifully situated over Lake Wakatipu and is surrounded by snowy peaks. There is a ton to do in city and is a great adventure hub for booking tours and day trips. If you have time, definitely spend at least two days exploring this awesome city.
Explore Queenstown Gardens
Stroll through these lush gardens, offering tranquility and stunning lake views right in the heart of Queenstown.
Ride the Skyline Gondola
Take a scenic ride on the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak for panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Southern Alps. This is also a great place to book paragliding adventures. Definitely take a ride on the luge at the top!
Food and Wine
Savor the region’s finest wines with a wine tour in the picturesque Gibbston Valley, known for its vineyards and wineries. For a more local experience, sink your teeth into Queenstown’s iconic Fergburger, a legendary burger joint offering mouthwatering gourmet creations.
Extreme Sports
Queenstown is known as the “Adventure Capital of the World.” The birthplace of bungee jumping is over the historic Kawarau Bridge. There’s an activity for every thrill-seeker as Queenstown is a hub for skydiving, jet boating, white-water rafting, and paragliding adventures.
Scenic Lake Cruise
For the less adventurous, take a relaxing cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm, where you can enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner.
Hiking
The Queenstown area offers plenty of hiking opportunities. One of the most popular is the Ben Lomond Track, which takes 6-8 hours (return) and is considered moderate to challenging. This iconic hike offers panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains and takes you to the summit of Ben Lomond, standing at 1,748 meters.
Another is the Queenstown Hill Walk, which only takes 2-3 hours (return) and is considered moderate. It provides fantastic vistas of Queenstown and winds through beech forests and some historical markers along the way.
Moke Lake Loop Track is an easy 1.5-2 hours (loop) which is very family-friendly and circles the picturesque Moke Lake, known for its tranquil setting and reflective waters. The trail is relatively flat and allows for a leisurely stroll with great mountain and lake views.
WHERE TO STAY
If camping: Moke Hill Campground is a serene camping spot located just a short drive from Queenstown, beside the tranquil Moke Lake. It offers basic facilities and gives you a more natural, rusting camping experience rather than staying in the middle of the urban city. Book at the DOC website.
If not camping: This incredible Airbnb offers spectacular views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. It is modern, clean, and has everything you need. 5 stars, highly recommend!
DAY 5: QUEENSTOWN TO TE ANAU
Driving Time: ~3 hours
KEPLER TRACK
The Kepler Track is one of New Zealand’s 10 famous Great Walks. It is a 60km loop that winds through beech forests, alpine meadows, and stunning vistas of Fiordland National Park. Normally it takes 3-4 days to complete, and you can camp or stay at DOC mountain huts along the way (must be booked in advance).
To get a taste of this trek, you can do a portion of it as a strenuous day hike, starting from Kepler Track Shelter and ascending to Luxmore Hut (27.6 km round trip, ~12 hours). Views from the top are great, but its an arduous hike up.
TE ANAU GLOWWORM CAVES
Beneath the serene Lake Te Anau lies a hidden world—the Te Anau Glowworm Caves. Take a mystical underground boat journey through ancient limestone passages, guided only by the glow of thousands of bioluminescent glowworms suspended like stars in the cavern’s ceiling. Experiencing the glowworms of New Zealand is a must do on any trip!
WHERE TO STAY
If camping: Henry Creek Campsite was one of our favorites campgrounds on this trip. Take a right when you reach the information bulletin and grab a spot with access to Lake Te Anau. Make sure to daily dip in the refreshing water and the fjordland sunsets will blow your mind. Drop toilets only. Reserve at DOC website or leave cash in the drop box on arrival.
If not camping: There is a small bed and breakfast called The Croft Bed & Breakfast which is located on a farm and has won multiple awards. There are only two accommodations on the property so make your inquiries on their website as soon as you have potential dates.
DAY 6: TE ANAU TO MILFORD SOUND
Driving Time: ~2 hours
MIRROR LAKE
Mirror Lake is a very short and easy stop along the road to Milford Sound, requiring only about 10-15 minutes for a quick stroll on the boardwalk. It’s suitable for all skill levels. With the right lighting, the lake reflects the surrounding snow-capped peaks like a flawless mirror.
LAKE MARIAN
The Lake Marian Track is a moderate to challenging hike, typically taking around 3-4 hours (return) to complete. The trail is approximately 3.4 kilometers one way and involves a steep ascent in parts but you will be rewarded with this hidden lake‘s emerald waters surrounded by lush native forests and rugged mountain terrain.
*MILFORD SOUND
Milford Sound is often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” It is a breathtaking fjord where towering waterfalls plummet into the dark waters below. Book one of the many half-day or full-day cruises to get a front-row seat to nature’s grandeur, with opportunities to spot seals, dolphins, and awe-inspiring cliffs rising from the sea. A must-do for everyone visiting New Zealand.
GERTRUDE SADDLE TRACK
For a challenging hike, consider hiking Gertrude Saddle in Fjordlands National Park. The hikes takes around 6-8 hours roundtrip and involves steep ascents, alpine terrain, and potentially icy conditions, so it’s suitable for experienced hikers only with appropriate gear and skills. You will be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Milford Sound, sheer peaks, and glacier-carved valleys.
WHERE TO STAY
If camping: Cascade Creek Campsite is the closest DOC campground to Milford Sound. Basically a large open area between a creek and Lake Gunn.
- Pro tip: Grab one of the first campsites on the right hand forested side (before the large open area) to get rain cover and more privacy.
If not camping: Milford Sound Lodge is located literally on the sound. The accommodations look very nice and are not crazy expensive, but book up fast. Book in advance as soon as you know your dates. There is a tiny cafe on site and you can even get a powered or unpowered campsite here.
DAY 7: EXPLORING FJORDLANDS NATIONAL PARK
Driving Time: ~1 hour
*ROUTEBURN TRACK
The Routeburn Track is another one of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks, and it is one of our favorites. The full trek is a 32km alpine adventure that traverses through Fiordland and Mount Aspiring National Parks with amazing views and usually takes 2-3 days to complete. You can camp or stay at DOC mountain huts along the way (must be booked in advance) with Routeburn Falls Hut being one of the nicest we stayed at.
You can (and should) do part of the Routeburn Track as a moderately-challenging day hike from Routeburn Shelter to Routeburn Falls, which would be 19.6km round-trip and take ~7 hours. If doing well on time, you could ascend past Routeburn Falls and do the rock scramble up to Harris Saddle. A must-do for anyone wanting a taste of New Zealand’s epic Great Walks.
WHERE TO STAY
If camping: Cascade Creek Campsite as above.
If not camping: Milford Sound Lodge as above.
DAY 8: FJORDLANDS NATIONAL PARK TO QUEENSTOWN
Driving Time: ~3-4 hours
See DAY 4 above.
DAY 9: QUEENSTOWN TO FOX GLACIER/FRANZ JOSEF
Driving Time: ~5-6 hours
WĀNAKA
Wānaka is a city located approximately one hour north of Queenstown. It has a beautiful setting on lake Wānaka and feels like a proper countryside getaway after the hustle-bustle of Queenstown. Stop by for the charming cafes, lavender farms, or kayak/SUP on the gorgeous waters. Super scenic. Don’t forget to stop by the famous #ThatWānakaTree.
There are some nice hikes in the area if you have time. Roy’s Peak is the most popular, takes about 5-6 hours round trip, gets you to a great viewpoint of Lake Wānaka, but can get pretty crowded and is strenuous. Isthmus Peak is less crowded and gets similar views but you can also see Lake Hawea. These trails border Mount Aspiring National Park.
MOUNT ASPIRING NATIONAL PARK
Mount Aspiring National Park is one of the more remote national parks in New Zealand. It extends from Haast Pass and borders Fjordland National Park. The Routeburn Track (above) crosses into this park but there are other hikes here as well such as the Rob Roy Glacier Track and Cascade Saddle. For shorter walks, go to Matukituki Valley.
*HAAST PASS
Haast Pass is one of the most scenic drives in all of New Zealand. Winding roads with snow peaks, lakes, and alpine forest backdrops. Epic.
BREWSTER HUT
If you have an extra day to spare, consider booking a night and staying at the Brewster Hut. This 12-bunk hut is in Mount Aspiring National Park and gives you mountain and glacier views. You can also do the Brewster track as a day hike which would take 6-8 hours round trip. You can book the Brewster Hut on the DOC Website.
COPLAND TRACK TO WELCOME HUT
This is really only an option if you have an extra night and longer trip. The 10-12 mile hike up can be intense but you are rewarded with natural hot pools at the top. It was recommended that you book at least 1-2 nights at the Welcome Hut to make this hot pool stay worth it.
WHERE TO STAY
If camping: Otto/McDonalds Campground is nothing special at first, but walk out to lake and you will see what makes it special. Located on Lake Mapourika you will get amazing views of the snow peaks and glaciers. A little outside of glacier towns for some peace and quiet.
If not camping: The Franz Josef area has many more accommodation options than the smaller Fox Glacier. Glenfern Villas offer 1 or 2-bedroom houses with kitchenettes and private decks. Te Waonui Forest Retreat is the splurge option and also offers a 5-course dinner.
DAY 10: FOX GLACIER/FRANZ JOSEF TO HOKITIKA
Driving Time: ~2 hours
*FOX GLACIER/FRANZ JOSEF GLACIER
Fox and Franz Josef are not the only glaciers in this region, but these are the most popular two. Unfortunately you are no longer able to drive or walk up the glaciers as the roads have been damaged from landslides; the only ways to now experience the glaciers are via air or kayak. These glaciers once reached the seas but are unfortunately retreating rapidly. The town of Franz Josef has much more to do and see whereas Fox Glacier is pretty tiny.
One of the most unique experiences is to do a heli-hike. A helicopter will pick you up, fly you ON TOP of the glacier, and then you actually get to strap on some crampons and hike around on top of the glacier for an allotted time. An expensive (~$500) excursion, but a unique once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
There are only two companies that we know of that will actually allow you to hike on the glacier: Fox Glacier Guiding and Franz Josef Glacier Guides. Both companies are extremely professional, knowledgeable, and safety-minded. Book ahead of time to guarantee a spot. Recommended only if it won’t break the bank!
LAKE MATHESON
If you are lucky to have a clear day, Lake Matheson is know for its mirroring effect and will bless you with reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. This lake was actually carved out by the Fox Glacier before it retreated. The best time to get this effect is early morning or late afternoon.
There is an easy 90 minute walk around Lake Matheson called the Lake Matheson Walk. If you’re feeling lazy, grab a coffee at the Matheson Cafe instead for some nice mountain views. You can also drive to Peak Viewpoint for a faraway view of the Fox glacier. We had a delicious salmon salad at Betsey Jane Eatery & Bar after our heli-hike.
FRANZ JOSEF TOWN
To get the best walking view of the Franz Josef glacier terminus, you can do the 1.5 hour Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere Walk. There is a 20 minute trail which branches off to his one called Sentinel Rock which may give you some nice views if you’re lucky with a clear day. After your heli-hike, take a relaxing dip in the Glacier Hot Pools, but make sure to book ahead of time!
GLOWWORM DELL
Follow The Terrace Walk for 30 minutes on the south side of town to spot some blue glow worms after dark.
WHERE TO STAY
If camping: Fox Glacier Top 10 Holiday Park has mountain views and upgrading to a cabin is not much more than the campervan sites. Nice amenities. Rainforest Retreat is in Franz Josef town and even has a hot tub.
If not camping: Glenfern Villas or Te Waonui Forest Retreat as above.
DAY 11: HOKITIKA TO PANCAKE ROCKS
Driving Time: ~2-3 hours
*HOKITIKA GORGE
Start your day with a 30-minute drive inland from the main town of Hokitika; this is a detour you won’t regret. A beautiful gorge with a flowing river the turquoise color of Lake Pukaki. The easy one-hour loop takes you over three swinging bridges, to multiple viewing platforms, and even up to the river’s edge (swim with extreme caution). The color will make your jaw drop every time you turn a corner and spot it.
THE GREAT COAST ROAD
The 100 km Great Coast Road from Graymouth to Westport is considered one of the prettiest drives in New Zealand. Beaches with rock formations on one side and sharp cliffsides on the other, it looks like a tropical Malibu.
There are plenty of pull outs along the way to stop with a snack and admire the views. The beaches are super isolated and full of smooth pebbles. It only gets nicer the further north you drive.
PANCAKE ROCKS
Stop by the Paparoa National Park Visitor Center in Punakaiki to find out about tide times and any active blow holes in the area.
The easy 20-minute Pancake Rocks & Blowholes Track loop to the mysterious Pancake Rocks starts right across the street from the visitor center at Dolomite Point. Try to go during high tide to see a spectacle of sea surges and blow holes. No need to spend all day here, a quick walk through will be sufficient.
- Fun Fact: The pancake appearance of the limestone rocks is caused by a process called “stylobedding”. They age between 20-30 million years old and were once submerged beneath the sea.
*TRUMAN TRACK
An easy 30-minute walk will take you through the bush onto a platform of a pretty pebble beach. But to really get the most out of this walk, ask the Paparoa Visitor Center Rangers about low-tide times when you can scramble over rocks to the secret beach. And scramble again to a secret secret beach. And again and again. You may even see some sea surges and blow holes along the way.
PORORARI RIVER TRACK
Walking along the Pororari River Track feels like you’ve entered Jurassic Park. Thick jungle follows along the Pororari river with plenty of shade and swim spots along the way (our favorite was about a 30-minute walk in with lots of rock formations in the water).
Walking an hour will get you to some swing bridges. If you have time, this track connects with the Paparoa Track, New Zealand’s newest Great Walk. Bring insect repellent for the sand flys.
WHERE TO STAY
If camping: Drive one hour north to the scenic and less crowded Carter’s Beach Top 10 Holiday Park. They had a large communal kitchen, laundry, showers, and even a fun “jumping pillow”. We upgraded to a simple cabin for only 40 NZD more. Incredible sunsets on the beach.
If not camping: Splurge on a sea-view room at The Ocean View Retreat located right on the sand.
DAY 12: PANCAKE ROCKS TO ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK
Driving Time: ~4-5 hours
*ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK
Abel Tasman is one of our favorite national parks in the world. Gorgeous golden-sand beaches, bays that change dramatically with the tides, and forest cliff walks full of birdlife. You can enter Abel Tasman Park either from the northern portion via Tākaka or through the southern portion via Marahau.
Abel Tasman is another Great Walk of New Zealand and you should definitely try to complete part of it on your visit. With only gentle elevation gains/drops and easy terrain, it is a track suitable for all ages and levels. There are water taxis that can drop you off to different points along the track to help. We recommend booking with AquaTaxi. They also offer kayak rentals.
One of the unique features of Abel Tasman Great Walk are its impressive low-tide crossings. The tide at Abel Tasman varies so dramatically that at low tide you can cross through areas that are normally completely underwater! Stop by the visitor centers to time your low-tide crossings carefully so that you don’t end up underwater.
The Abel Tasman hike is truly unique. You will experience gorgeous coves, views from above, and amazing beaches. The hike is intermittently sun-exposed but you get breaks when walking through forest portions. Keep eyes and ears out for all of Abel Tasman’s birds!
- Shorter Day Hike (4-5 hours): If you only have a few hours, we recommend starting at Marahau and booking an AquaTaxi to drop you off Anchorage. The low-tide crossing is just past Anchroage. You don’t have to completely cross but it is amazing to see and walk around an area that will soon be completely underwater. Then turn around and hike back to Marahau, about 4 hours.
- Longer Day Hike (5-6 hours): If you have time, take a boat to the gorgeous Torrent Bay. Make sure to give yourself enough time to cross back to Anchorage during the low-tide. From Torrent Bay to Marahau will be 5 hours of beautiful hiking.
- Overnight or Multiday Hikes: To stay overnight on the Abel Tasman Walk, you must book a campsite or hut on the DOC website. There are mountain huts available at Anchorage, Bark Bay, Awaroa, and Whariwharangi Bay. There are also campsites throughout the hike.
- Protip: Anchorage has a nicer hut set-up with more private bunk beds, whereas the Bark Bay hut you are lined up like sardines in a summer-camp type set up. We did not love the Bark Bay Hut and there was a crazy amount of mosquitos at that beach. We did not see the other two huts, so cannot comment.
HEAPHY TRACK
The Heaphy Track is one of the most popular Great Walks in New Zealand. It goes through forest, river valleys, and beaches. The entire walk takes about 4-5 days to complete. Like the other Great Walks, you must book huts or campsites ahead of time on the DOC website.
You could complete part of the Heaphy Track as a long day hike from Brown Hut to Perry Saddle Hut which would be 35k and take ~10 hours.
TĀKAKA
Tākaka is a city located about 45 minutes from Totaranui Campground. Home to the Te Waikoropupu Springs, considered one of the clearest freshwater springs in the world. Take the 20-minute walk around the springs but do not touch the water as this is a sacred site for the Māori.
Stop by Anatoki Salmon Fishing and Cafe where you can catch your own (farm-raised) salmon and then have it cooked to your like. Popular options are smoking or sashimi style.
NELSON
Nelson is considered one of the most liveable cities of New Zealand and is one of its major urban centers. It’s a pretty town located on the water, but books up quickly.
We had a tasty seafood dinner at The Styx. If you have some downtime, take a walk through the Queen’s Garden or Botanical Reserve parks. If in town on a Saturday morning, check out the Nelson Farmers’ Market in Montgomery Square from 8am to 1pm. Nelson is also home to a large craft beer scene.
WHERE TO STAY
If camping: We stayed at Totaranui Campground the night before starting our Abel Tasman Walk which can be booked on the DOC website. This campsite is massive! There are 200 spots with access to beach and toilets in the visitor center. The beach was surprisingly not crowded although you will likely be in close camping quarters if visiting during the high season.
If not camping: Book a night at the Ratanui Lodge and make sure you grab a dinner reservation for some tasty seafood too.
DAY 13: ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK TO KAIKŌURA
Driving Time: ~3-4 hours
MARLBOROUGH
Marlborough is New Zealand’s world-famous wine country. You will drive through endless vineyards after vineyards in this region. Stop by for a tasting and try the area’s sauvignon blanc or pinot noir which they are known for.
If interested in wine tastings, check out the Marlborough Wine Trail, a collection of wineries which offer public tastings. You can also book tours which usually come with bus transport.
QUEEN CHARLOTTE TRACK
This is a very popular track which takes ~4 days to complete but we heard even doing a small part of it is beautiful. It is an easy walk suitable for all fitness levels. You can access various sections of the track via boat or kayak. Parts of the track go through private land so make sure you obtain appropriate passes from Picton or Blenheim.
FERRY TO NORTH ISLAND
If your New Zealand adventure continues in the North Island, you can grab a ferry and cross the Cook Strait from Picton. There are 2 companies which run ferries: Interislander Cook Strait Ferry and Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferry. The journey takes about 3-hours to reach Wellington and tickets need to be booked in advance as spots can fill up fast.
KAIKŌURA
Kaikōura is known for whale wildlife spotting and seafood. Here you can book whale watching tours, go swimming with dolphins, spot seals, and meet penguins. Book a tour to get out on the water or a flight to see creatures from above.
Go to the Point Kean Viewpoint to spot some seals lounging on the warm stones. Mangamaunu Beach is known for its good surfing. If you have time for a long walk, the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway is a 3-4 hour loop that takes you along the coast and passes through Point Kean.
For some delicious seafood, stop by Nins Bin or Lobster Inn, famous crayfish spots in Kaikōura. We had some tasty garlic butter cod and crayfish at the appropriately named Cods & Crayfish as well.
WHERE TO STAY
If camping: Kaikoura Top 10 Holiday Park has a big kitchen, clean bathrooms, and even a hot tub.
If not camping: Both Lemon Tree Lodge and Nikau Lodge offer bed and breakfast lodging with ocean and mountain views.
DAY 14: KAIKŌURA TO CHRISTCHURCH
Driving Time: ~2-4 hours
HANMER SPRINGS
If you have time for a 1.5 hour detour, stop by Hanmer Springs to soak your tired legs. This is more of a hot springs resort or theme park rather than a quiet, natural thermal, but you can rent a private hot pool if looking for some rest. A little out of the way, 3-hour roundtrip journey.
CHRISTCHURCH
Andddd we’ve come full circle back to Christchurch.
WHERE TO STAY
If camping: One of the most isolated natural campgrounds near Christchurch is the Mistletoe Flat Campsite. Located about 75 minutes from Christchurch, it is serene and remote campground within Arthur’s Pass National Park.
If not camping: If looking for a place to crash for the night before your flight, we had a pleasant stay and good breakfast at Sudima Christchurch Airport. We appreciate their ecoconscious touches.
MORE RESOURCES
The two resources we found most helpful in planning our journey was Lonely Planet New Zealand (digitally borrowed from the library via our favorite app Libby) and this excellent South Island New Zealand Itinerary by Two Wandering Soles. Check them out!
MAP
Here is a link to our Road Trip New Zealand Google Map with recommendations for a two week road trip across the South Island. Let us know if you followed any of our journeys, or used it as inspiration to create your own!
