An Epic South Island New Zealand Road Trip
Comparable in size to Great Britain or Japan, New Zealand boasts a population of just 5 million, making it one of the world’s least densely populated countries. Known for their friendliness and relaxed lifestyle, New Zealanders are incredibly welcoming hosts. New Zealand also harbors unique flora and fauna, with many plant and bird species found nowhere else on the planet. This incredible road trip will take you along the length of the eastern coast of the South Island, where you’ll explore quaint towns and experience some of New Zealand’s most picturesque landscapes.
This incredible road trip will take you along the length of the eastern coast of the South Island, where you’ll explore quaint towns and experience some of New Zealand’s most picturesque landscapes.
Beyond the scenic drive, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, including whale watching, surfing, hiking, and kayaking. The South Island also offers incredible local cuisine and many boutique luxury hotels, making this trip a true bucket list experience. The New Zealand summer between December and March is the perfect time to travel, and while this trip is listed at 16 days, you could easily spend 20 going at a slower pace.
Upon your arrival at Nelson Airport, a representative will greet you and drive you to your hotel. Nelson is one of the sunniest places in the country and boasts diverse landscapes, ranging from rugged mountains, intensive farms, and untouched forests. With three National Parks on its outskirts, Nelson is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Our favorite hotel is Pihopa Retreat, a property set on five acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. Each spacious suite features a kitchenette, a bedroom, and a lounge area for relaxation. Take a stroll around the park-like grounds or enjoy a swim in the heated pool.
Begin your first day by exploring the delightful city of Nelson. Whether you choose a guided tour or prefer to explore on your own, you’ll also collect your rental car for the upcoming road trip.
Start by visiting the historic districts and scenic viewpoints that offer stunning views of the city and Tasman Bay. Next, drive through the fertile Waimea Plain, known for its abundant fruit and wine production, and head to Marahau, the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park. Enjoy a picnic at Split Apple Rock Beach before ending your day with an afternoon cruise that will take you along breathtaking stretches of coastline often hidden from the walking trails.
Let the road trip begin! Leave Nelson and follow the coast on a 1.5-hour drive to Blenheim. Along the way, you’ll pass the scenic Pelorus Bridge and then continue through rolling hills before crossing the Wairau River into the picturesque Marlborough Winelands. Take a break for lunch in Blenheim before resuming your journey with a 2.5-hour drive to Kaikoura. As you head south along the east coast, enjoy the stunning coastal views with the majestic Kaikoura mountain range, often snow-capped, extending to the ocean. Arrive in the charming seaside town of Kaikoura, named after the Maori term for ‘to eat crayfish,’ reflecting its rich marine life.
Check into Hapuku Lodge, located 12 km north of town. The lodge is set on a property that includes a deer stud and an olive grove and features four luxury suites and five treehouses built in the canopy of a native Manuka grove. All accommodations offer breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and surf-washed coastline. The treehouses come with large spa baths and fireplaces, while the lodge suites feature Japanese soaking tubs.
Start your morning with a 3.5-hour whale-watching tour. While sightings can vary, sperm whales are the main attraction and are present year-round. During a typical Whale Watch tour, you might also see New Zealand Fur Seals, pods of Dusky dolphins, and the endangered Wandering Albatross. Depending on the season, you could spot migrating Humpback Whales, Pilot Whales, Blue Whales, and Southern Right Whales. Kaikoura frequently hosts the world’s largest dolphin, the Orca, and is home to the smallest and rarest, the Hector’s dolphin. Additionally, Kaikoura boasts the highest concentration and variety of seabirds on mainland New Zealand, including 13 species of Albatross, 14 varieties of Petrels, and 7 types of Shearwater. Spend the afternoon unwinding back at the lodge.
Continue along the coastal road for three more hours, passing a significant seal colony just south of Kaikoura. Then, head inland to the lush farmlands of North Canterbury. Cross the impressive Waimakariri River as you near Christchurch. Check into the Classic Villa, an Italian-style historic home that has been elegantly renovated into a five-star boutique hotel. Located on a peaceful pedestrian boulevard, it is just steps away from central shopping and attractions. The hotel offers eight heritage guestrooms with ornate ceilings and polished timber floors, as well as four contemporary guestrooms, all featuring modern bathrooms with under-floor heating.
Known as the “Garden City,” Christchurch is an ideal place to enjoy a half or full-day garden tour. Begin your tour in the city center and proceed to the Port Hills, which offer breathtaking views of Christchurch, the Canterbury Plains, Lyttelton Harbour, and the distant Southern Alps. Descend into Lyttelton Harbour to explore a private garden established in 1865, featuring a diverse collection of exotic trees, shrub rhododendrons, camellias, and a variety of native New Zealand plants. Then, cross the crater rim to visit another private garden designed in a formal New Zealand style. Pause for a leisurely lunch before heading to the Botanical Gardens, where you will encounter some of New Zealand’s largest, tallest, and oldest exotic trees.
Leave Christchurch and embark on a scenic drive across the Canterbury Plains, characterized by braided rivers and pastoral landscapes nestled between the Southern Alps and the Pacific Ocean. You’ll cross New Zealand’s longest bridge over the Rakaia River. As you head south, take time to explore the region’s charming rural towns. In Ashburton, visit local museums; in Geraldine, browse arts and crafts shops; and in Timaru, discover Maori rock art. Don’t miss the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, a highlight of the area. Stunning beaches and fascinating geological formations mark the journey from Oamaru to Dunedin.
Your hotel is Fable Dunedin, a Victorian-era hotel that has been transformed into a modern, boutique five-star establishment offering full-service luxury. Originally built in 1862 and known as Wains Hotel for much of its history, this historic building now boasts 50 guest rooms that blend contemporary luxury with beautifully preserved features.
Spend a day outdoors exploring Dunedin’s numerous surf breaks. With over 50 spots within a 30-minute drive, many of which are hidden gems, we can guide you to the best locations. A local guide in a 4×4 will pick you up from your hotel lobby for a personalized day of surfing. The excursion will be tailored to your preferences and skill level, with a wetsuit and board provided.
Journey south to the provincial hub of Milton, crossing the expansive Taieri Plains before winding through the undulating countryside into the Clutha Valley. The route traces alongside the Clutha River, passing through a landscape of dry hillsides contrasted with lush irrigated flats. Continuing onwards through Alexandra and Cromwell, follow the Kawarau River to reach Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu.
Settle in at Hulbert House, a meticulously restored Victorian villa dating back to 1888, rich in authentic charm and history. Combining historic elegance with contemporary hospitality, this luxury boutique accommodation offers a serene retreat just a block away from Queenstown’s bustling central district.
Embark on a half-day guided hike around Queenstown to explore its stunning landscapes. During this enjoyable 4-hour walk, discover a variety of edible and medicinal plants traditionally used by both Maori and European settlers. The trail descends to the shores of Lake Wakatipu, offering splendid views through the trees across the water to the Remarkables and Cecil Peak. For those seeking a more challenging adventure, there’s an option to ascend to a lookout point for breathtaking panoramic vistas.
Today, enjoy exploring Queenstown at your own pace. Known as the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown and its surroundings offer a playground for adrenaline enthusiasts, active explorers, wine aficionados, and families alike. Explore remote areas on cycling tours or mountain biking trails, or discover lakeside and mountain hiking trails. Wine enthusiasts should not miss Gibbston Valley, renowned for its superb Pinot Noir. Visit cellar doors and restaurants independently by car or bicycle, or join a guided tour to explore and savor the region’s finest wines.
Today, depart from the picturesque Queenstown towards Te Anau, the gateway to the Fiords. Your journey begins along the scenic shores of Lake Wakatipu, with the rugged Remarkable Ranges casting their shadow. Passing through Kingston and Mossburn, you’ll traverse tussock-covered hills, reaching high vantage points that offer breathtaking views of Fiordland’s majestic mountains. Eventually, the expansive panorama of Lake Te Anau unfolds before you. The road from Te Anau to Milford is renowned as one of New Zealand’s most stunning drives. Initially passing through gentle farmland, it soon immerses you in beech forests as you enter Fiordland National Park.
Tonight, you will stay aboard the luxurious Fiordland Jewel in Milford Sound. This small ship offers amenities such as an on-deck hot tub, kayaks for exploring, and exceptional cuisine. Milford Sound is unparalleled in its natural beauty. Towering peaks rise hundreds of meters both above and below sea level, cascading waterfalls punctuate the landscape, and pristine rainforests complete the scene. It is truly the most awe-inspiring of New Zealand’s thirteen fiords. Beyond its andscapes, Milford Sound teems with wildlife. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, and penguins during your overnight cruise.
Bid farewell to Milford Sound and begin your ascent through the dramatic Cleddau Canyon, heading back towards Te Anau. Along the way, you’ll find numerous spots perfect for short hikes. Descend into the steep Hollyford Valley and then into the expansive Eglinton Valley, where you might want to pause at the Mirror Lakes. Continue your journey alongside the breathtaking Lake Te Anau until you reach the quaint township and your accommodations at Cabot Lodge.
Situated on a 2000-acre farm that encompasses sheep, deer, and beef operations, Cabot Lodge borders the renowned Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This private luxury lodge offers an authentic New Zealand experience hosted by a fifth-generation farming family. Guests can engage in on-farm activities and enjoy panoramic views stretching across Lake Manapouri and the vast mountain ranges of Fiordland’s World Heritage Park, with direct private access to the park from the property.
Today, take the opportunity to explore Te Anau at your own pace, with plenty of activities to choose from. Positioned on the shores of Lake Te Anau, this town serves as both a scenic base and a gateway to Fiordland’s natural wonders. Te Anau is renowned as the starting point for three of New Zealand’s Great Walks. Whether you enjoy hiking or walking, you can access various sections of the Kepler Track, Routeburn Track, and Milford Track via road transfer, water taxi, or jetboat from Te Anau. Guided and self-guided options are available for exploring these iconic trails.
Today, enjoy a leisurely day at Cabot Lodge, nestled on 2,000 acres of pristine farmland teeming with over 7,000 animals, including sheep, deer, cattle, beehives, and two miniature horses. Immerse yourself in New Zealand farming life by participating in activities such as feeding horses, petting sheep, or learning about beekeeping. Join a guided 4WD tour of the property to gain insights into sustainable farming practices and witness skilled sheepdogs in action.
Explore several scenic walks available on the estate. Hike to the highest peak for stunning panoramic views, or stroll down to the tranquil Waiau River jetty for a romantic picnic or a relaxing fishing experience. Cabot Lodge offers a perfect blend of rural charm and outdoor activities, ensuring a memorable stay immersed in the natural beauty of Fiordland.
Depart beautiful Lake Te Anau and take the scenic drive to Queenstown Airport for your flight home.
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