The quintessential South Island road trip. Drive through golden tussock landscapes to the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, stand beneath the mighty Aoraki/Mt Cook, explore adventure capital Queenstown, and relax by the lakeside in Wanaka. Perfect for first-time visitors wanting to see the best of the South Island.
Start your journey in the Garden City. Pick up your motorhome and explore the rebuilt city centre, Christchurch Botanic Gardens, and the innovative Cardboard Cathedral.
Major motorhome pickup hub with excellent facilities. Stock up on supplies at Pak'nSave before heading south.
Drive through the Canterbury Plains and into the Mackenzie Country. The stunning turquoise lake and the Church of the Good Shepherd are iconic. At night, enjoy world-class stargazing in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.
One of NZ's most photographed locations. The lake colour is extraordinary and stargazing here is unforgettable.
Continue deeper into the mountains to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. Walk the famous Hooker Valley Track (3 hours return) for spectacular glacier views. The Tasman Glacier viewpoint is also worth visiting.
New Zealand's highest peak. The Hooker Valley Track is one of the best short walks in the country.
Drive via Cromwell and the Kawarau Gorge to reach Queenstown. This adventure capital offers bungy jumping, jet boating, scenic gondola rides, and world-class dining. Take a cruise on Lake Wakatipu on the vintage TSS Earnslaw.
The adventure capital of New Zealand. Stunning lake and mountain scenery with endless activities.
A short drive over the Crown Range (NZ's highest sealed road) brings you to relaxed Wanaka. Visit the famous Wanaka Tree, explore Puzzling World, or hike to Roy's Peak for panoramic views.
A more relaxed alternative to Queenstown with equally stunning scenery. Roy's Peak is a bucket-list hike.
Stop in the fruit bowl of the South Island. Visit the historic precinct, taste local stone fruit and cherries (in season), and explore the surrounding wineries of Central Otago.
Central Otago wine region. Great for a rest day with wine tasting and fruit picking.
Drive back to Christchurch via the inland route through Burkes Pass. Return your motorhome and reflect on an incredible South Island journey.
Return motorhome at Christchurch depot.
Mix of highways and winding mountain roads. Some experience recommended.
October - April
Suitable for families with older children. Some stops may require longer drives.
Great for first-time campervan users. Well-equipped holiday parks along the route.