Here's some great New Zealand South Island itinerary ideas.

Finally, your New Zealand South Island itinerary takes you deep into the Southern Alps and New Zealand's highest peak, Mount Cook, before heading back to Christchurch.

Day 1 of your New Zealand South Island itinerary - arrive in Christchurch, the Garden City

Touch down today in Christchurch the "Garden City".

With over 300 parks and gardens, Christchurch has a relaxed, laid back feel.

The central city area is well worth a visit if time allows, and the area along the Avon River has some beautiful walks, and a fabulous market and dining precinct known as the Riverside Market. While you are there, relax with a punt ride on the Avon or combine it with a ride on the city tram and the scenic Christchurch Gondola.

Adjacent to the airport, the Antarctic Centre is a really interesting attraction. Tracing the history of antarctic exploration, there's a range of interactive experiences like the freezing "storm room", an all terrain vehicle ride, penguin encounter and a 4D theatre.

Accommodation in Christchurch

Depending on your arrival time, it may be more convenient for you to stay near  Christchurch Airport. There's a good range of hotels near the airport with the Novotel (around 100 steps from the terminal) and the Sudima (5-10 minutes walk) being the closest. We've stayed at both and would happily recommend either. The Sudima has a shuttle which you need to call, so for late night arrivals we find it easier to walk to the Novotel. From the airport, it's around 20 minutes drive to the city centre.

You can see a range of Christchurch accommodation here.

Car hire for your New Zealand South Island itinerary

The roads in New Zealand are generally very well maintained, although they are often winding and hilly. So your choice of car is important. Some of our visitors prefer the comfort of a larger SUV, although if it's just a couple travelling, a smaller sedan or hatch will be all you will need. Fuel in New Zealand can be expensive, so we often choose a hybrid vehicle. Unless you are planning on staying in one of the major cities like Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch, we would avoid electric vehicles as the current charging network is not widespread.

Through our partnership with DriveNow, we have access to a wide range of vehicles from all of the major suppliers, at market leading rates.

For cars, you can compare prices and read reviews on our dedicated page here.

For campervans you can search a range of options here.

Day 2 - drive from Christchurch to Kaikoura

Distance 180 klm (112 miles)

Driving time 2.5 hours

Today on your New Zealand South Island itinerary it's time to head north to our marine wonderland, Kaikoura.

As you leave Christchurch the country opens up and is dotted with wineries and some beautiful rolling countryside. Around 20 kilometres south of Kaikoura the road heads back onto the coast, revealing a stunning coastline, sheltered on the west by towering mountains. Keep an eye open for the various seal colonies which are scattered along the coastline. There's ample opportunities to park the car and get some great photos.

Kaikoura Accommodation

There's a good range of accommodation in Kaikoura. Your options are the hotels on the highway running through the outskirts of town, or those along the beachfront close to the town centre.

Over the years we've stayed at several, but our favourite is the Anchor Inn Beachfront Motel, on the Esplanade. It's a beautiful motel directly opposite the beach. If you choose one of the ocean view rooms, you won't be disappointed. The Anchor Inn is a flat 15-20 minute walk to the town centre, or a 5-10 minute walk to the beautiful Pier Hotel, a fantastic spot for a meal and drink.

You can search a full range of Kaikoura hotels here.

Day 3 - explore Kaikoura

Kaikoura's marine wildlife flourishes in perfect conditions. Nutrient rich ocean currents support a wide variety of creatures great and small, including seals, whales, dolphins, and birds.

Wildlife tours are very popular here and often book out well in advance. The most popular are the whale watch tours, but you can also take scenic whale spotting flights, or even kayak tours. For the best sea conditions, we recommend morning tours.

No trip to Kaikoura would be complete without a seafood feast at the Kaikoura Seafood BBQ (at 55 Fyffe Quay). If the weather is fine, this is a must do. From a small caravan next to the ocean, the hosts cook up a variety of delicious local seafood, including crayfish, fish, scallops, whitebait and paua (a tasty marine snail). It's a wonderful relaxed way to experience some local seafood delicacies.

Further to the north of town, the famous Nins Bin and Karaka Lobster also offer opportunities to sample our most popular seafood.

The Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway hugs the coastline and has some amazing views. It takes around 3 hours to complete and is a relatively easy walk suitable for families. You can choose to do the full walk or just chosen stages, and the Department of Conservation (DOC) website has lots of helpful information about the walk.

Close to town, the seal colony at Point Kean is easily accessible by road, and is well worth a visit. The Kaikoura Museum in the town centre details the region's whaling history, and if you like classic cars, Harmon's Motor Museum and Bernie's Diner are great fun, and a reminder of days gone by.

For wonderful views, head on up to the Kaikoura Lookout at 274 Scarborough Street. There's a paved parking area and an elevated viewing platform. You can see north and south along the coastline, and in the cooler months, the views across the ocean to the snow-capped Kaikoura Ranges are simply stunning.

You can see a range of available Kaikoura tours below.

Day 4 - today your New Zealand South Island itinerary takes you from Kaikoura to Nelson

Distance 251 klm (156 miles)

Driving time 3.5 hours

Today your adventure takes you north along State Highway 1 to Nelson and the Tasman region. Home to stunning golden beaches and clear waters, it's a beautiful region, and one that we've spent a lot of time at over the years.

Around 20 kilometres north of Kaikoura, stop at the Ohau Point seal colony. There's a large viewing area and always lots of seals on the rocks below.

From Kaikoura it's a little less than two hours drive to Blenheim, the major town in the famed Marlborough wine region. It's a good opportunity to stop for a stretch before continuing on to Nelson.

A further 60 kilometres on, there's a narrow one land bridge, known as Pelourus Bridge. The bridge spans a large gorge with crystal clear rock pools, and we always stop here for a quick break and some pictures. There's also a cafe and some toilets here.

From here it's around one hours drive to Nelson.

Where to stay in Nelson

Nelson and the neighbouring towns of Richmond and Stoke stretch out over around 10 kilometres, hugging the shores of Tasman Bay. As befits a region with a population of around 100,000, there's a wide range of accommodation options.

But where you stay will depend on what you intend to see and do while you are here.

The big attraction is the Abel Tasman National Park, which is around one hours drive from Nelson. If that's your focus, then we suggest staying at either Motueka (20-30 minutes from the park), Marahau, a small village at the entrance to the park, or Kaiteriteri, a seaside village around 15 minutes from the park..

Here's some links for the various areas:

Nelson accommodation

Motueka accommodation

Marahau accommodation

Kaiteriteri accommodation

Day 5 - explore Nelson

With perhaps a day and a half to explore here, it's important to maximise your time.

So we'll give you a couple of suggestions for activities:

* in and around the city

* in and around the Abel Tasman National Park

Things to do near Nelson city

* Nelson has a thriving artisan scene and is dotted with galleries and workshops, featuring creations by local artists. 

* Visit the World of Wearable Arts.

* Founder's Heritage Park is a great family attraction, with gardens, a train ride, galleries, cafe, and a range of displays of historic items.

* The Nelson Classic Car Museum features more than 150 classic cars, dating back to 1903. Across the road, Speight's Ale House is a great place to stop for lunch or a refreshment.

* Sample a local vintage at one of the region's wonderful wineries like Neudorf or Seifried.

Things to do in the Abel Tasman National Park

The Abel Tasman is a beautiful spot, and over the years we've spent countless hours here, with relatives living in the area. The park is the big attraction, and the golden beaches and crystal clear waters are something we will never forget. And we know you will feel the same if you visit.

If your time is limited, the best way to see the park is on a guided tour. These can include a cruise, walk and kayak. You can even skydive over the park. Whichever option you choose, you won't be disappointed.

We know it's a stretch with limited time, but around an hours drive from Motueka, Te Waikoropupu (PuPu) Springs are a welcome detour. These freshwater springs are New Zealand's largest and discharge an astounding 14,000 litres of cold fresh water every second.  The water has an outstanding clarity and is some of the clearest ever measured. There's a well maintained, mostly flat track around the springs, and a large observation deck. Depending on what you choose to do in the Abel Tasman National Park you may be able to include the springs in your schedule that day.

Here's a selection for you:

Day 6 - drive from Nelson to Punakaiki

Distance 259 klm (158 miles)

Driving time 3.5 hours

Today your New Zealand South Island itinerary takes you along State Highway 6 to the "Wild West Coast".

As you head out of Nelson, rolling farmland fills your view, before giving way to some steeper country as you head over the Hope Saddle. Around one and a half hours from Nelson, the township of Murchison is a good place to stop for a break. There's a couple of good cafe's there like Rivers Cafe. The Buller River accompanies you most of the way to the coast, and there are some excellent viewing spots along the way.

Handy tip - Punakaiki has limited services so we always make sure we top up our fuel at Murchison.

Punakaiki is a small coastal village, and the perfect base for exploring the Paparoa National Park. The park is home to one of New Zealand's Great Walks, the Paparoa Track.

Best known for the unusual Pancake Rocks and blowhole, it's a stunning coastline around here. Tall limestone cliffs, pristine ancient forests, the unique Nikau Palm, and those famous West Coast sunsets, make this a special place.

Punakiki has a limited, but excellent, variety of accommodation. We love the beach front Scenic Hotel (ocean view rooms are a must), or when travelling with a small group, Wave Watchers retreat. There's something calming about falling asleep to the sound of waves crashing on the beach.

You can see a range of Punakaiki accommodation here.

The Pancake Rocks and blowhole are easily accessible along a paved path accessed from the highway. High tide is the best time to visit to see the blowhole pumping.

Just north of the village, the Punakaiki Cavern is well worth a visit. Around 130 metres of pathway lead you to a grotto where enchanting glowworms twinkle like stars.

Places to eat here are limited, but there's a nice restaurant at the Scenic Hotel, or you can soak up some true West Coast hospitality at the Punakaiki Rocks Hotel and Garden Bar. Great pub food and a garden bar with lovely views of the cliffs and forest.

Handy tip - our "infamous" west coast midges (small sandflies) can be an annoying companion on the West Coast. They are non-venomous, but leave an itchy mark, so we recommend buying some insect repellent before you arrive.

Day 7 - drive from Punakaiki to Franz Josef

Distance 217 klm (135 miles)

Driving time 3 hours

Today's journey takes you south along one of the most scenic roads in New Zealand, State Highway 6.

Around 45 minutes south of Punakaiki, the town of Greymouth is a good spot to top up the fuel. Greymouth is the departure/arrival point for the famous TranzAlpine train, regarded as one of the finest rail journeys in the world.

Another half hour or so brings you to Hokitika, our "Jade Capital". Also known as greenstone or the Maori name pounamu, jade has long been a part of Maori culture, and was used to carve weapons, jewellery and artifacts. These days there are several jade workshops and galleries in Hokitika, so be sure to pick up a trinket while you are there. Around 30 minutes south east of Hokitika, the Hokitika Gorge is a must see. Here the Hokitika River winds its way between steep cliffs and there's a series of clear pools and a suspension bridge.  From the car park its an easy 15 minute walk to a viewing platform, then another 15 minutes to the suspension bridge.

Welcome to Franz Josef village, the service centre for the region. Along with Fox Glacier village (around 30 minutes south) the two provide a good range of accommodation and services. There's a small supermarket in each village and a range of bars, cafes and restaurants. They are also the base for a range of glacier focussed tours, including glacier hikes and scenic flights (some with the highly recommended snow landing).

You can see a range of tours using the widget below. We loved the glacier flight and snow landing. Our flight took us over the glacier, revealing huge crevices and ice in shades of blue.  When we landed we were greeted by cool clear air and a pristine alpine environment. It's something we will never forget.

Other recommended attractions here are the West Coast Wildlife Centre, where you can see the rare rowi Kiwi, and at the end of a day exploring, the soothing Waiho Hot Tubs.

Day 8 - drive from Franz Josef to Queenstown

Distance 351 klm (218 miles)

Driving time 5.25 hours

A big day today as you continue south along the coast before heading inland just after Haast. Your drive to Queenstown will take around five and a half hours without stops. You could cut around an hour off this if you decided to stay at Wanaka tonight. It's a beautiful lakefront town and we've stayed there multiple times over the years.

Handy tip - after Haast, there are no fuel stations for several hours, so please top up the tank at Franz Josef, Fox Glacier village, or Haast.

Today's journey is a spectacular one, with rugged coastline, towering alps, thundering rivers and pristine lakes all on display.

Around 115 kilometres from Franz Josef the lookout at Knight's Point is a great place to stop for a stretch. There's wonderful coastal views and some toilet facilities.

A further 30 minutes or so bring you to Haast, a small village with a pub, a service station, and some cafe's.

Just after Haast, a very long bridge takes you over the Haast River, revealing a huge valley covered in ancient native forests, and snow capped peaks. Stunning.

As you head inland, there's several points of interest including the Gates of Haast, Fantail Falls, and the Makarora Blue Pools.

Just after Makarora, Lake Wanaka comes into view on your right hand side, continuing for around twenty five kilometres, before you cross a hilly area known as "the neck". From that point Lake Wanaka is replaced on the opposite side of the road by the equally stunning Lake Hawea. From here it's a short drive to Wanaka.

The two roads to Queenstown

From Wanaka, there are two very different roads to Queenstown.

The route via Cromwell is much less scenic, and a little longer. We would usually only recommend it if the road conditions preclude you from taking the second option via Cardrona over the Crown Range.

The Crown Range road is New Zealand's highest main road. From Wanaka to Queenstown takes around an hour, and unless the road is closed by ice or snow (which sometimes happens in the colder months), this is the way to go. The road is sealed all the way, and winds through tussock covered hills and steadily climbs to the summit, where there are wonderful views down the valley to Queenstown. It's a memorable drive.

Welcome to Queenstown

Welcome to Queenstown, one of New Zealand's premier holiday destinations. It's a place that we love to include in any New Zealand South Island itinerary.

Please take the time to read our notes about where to stay in Queenstown before booking your accommodation.

Days 9, 10, 11 - explore Queenstown (day trip to Fiordland on one of these days days)

With three full days here, you will never be lost for something to do.

Known as our "Adventure Capital", Queenstown is a thrill-seekers paradise. Jet boating, whitewater rafting, skydiving, bungy jumping and skiing are just some of the things that draw adventure junkies to Queenstown.

But, there's another softer, more serene side to Queenstown, and it's something that draws us back time after time. Leisurely walks by the lake, and cruises on the historic TSS Earnslaw. Catching the gondola high above town to Bob's Peak, or just taking in the views wherever you are. Or maybe a winery tour or a game of golf on our world class courses. All are guaranteed to free the mind and soul.

You can find out more about Queenstown on our dedicated pages like "Things to do in Queenstown". Or check out the "Things To Do" tab on our Nav Bar for lots of great ideas.

Dedicate a day to Fiordland

Please, devote one day to a visit to Fiordland.

Fiordland National Park is a World Heritage listed park, and home to Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound.

Although Fiordland is only about 100 kilometres in a dirct line from Queenstown, by road it's around 4-5 hours drive each way. On unfamiliar roads, this makes for a very long day if you choose to drive yourself. Which is precisely why we always choose to either fly in or out, or take an organised coach tour and cruise. The drive, particularly the second half into Milford Sound is hard to discribe. Can you imagine towering snow capped mountains that poke in and out of the mist, enormous waterfalls that cascade down the cliff faces, thundering rivers, and scenery that could have so easily been taken from Jurassic Park? That's what you can expect. But you need to sit back, relax, and let a knowledgeable guide (or pilot) take you there and back.

To see a range of tours, have a look at our dedicated Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound pages.

Handy tip - if you choose to fly to Fiordland, please be aware that flights are very weather dependant and are frequently cancelled. 

Day 12 - drive from Queenstown to Mt. Cook

Distance 263 klm (163 miles)

Driving time 3.5 hours

Today it's time to head northwards to Aoeraki Mount Cook village.

Like most drives in New Zealand, today is filled with amazing scenery, with the Southern Alps, Lindis Pass and Lake Pukaki being highlights.

From Queenstown it's around an hours drive to the pretty town of Cromwell. Famous for it's stone fruit, Cromwell is also home to the Highlands Motorsport Park, so if fast cars are your thing, stop off for a hot lap.

Another hour or so brings you to one of our alpine passes, Lindis Pass, which links Central Otago and the Mackenzie Basin. At 971 metres above sea level, the pass is often dusted in snow, and the tussock covered hills make for some great pictures.

From here it's around one and a half hours to Mt Cook village. Just after the pretty town of Twizel, you turn off State Highway 8 and onto State Highway 80. The drive from here hugs the shores of Lake Pukaki, whose brilliant turquoise waters are mesmerising.

Handy tip about fuel - there is a self serve, card only, petrol pump in Mt Cook village. But we have heard reports that some cards will not work in the terminal. So if you need to top up the fuel, please do it in Twizel.

Accommodation

For peak periods, accommodation in the village can be booked out well in advance, so we always recommend researching your options well ahead of your planed visit.

You can see a range of options here.

Welcome to Mount Cook village.

There's a buzz here with tourists from around the world attracted by the natural wonders on show. The landscape is dominated by Aoraki Mount Cook, our tallest peak at 3,724 metres.

Outdoor activities like some amazing walks, helicopter flights, skydiving and stargazing are all popular here. The Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre is a must do, and there's an excellent Department of Conservation centre here.

And like us, you will enjoy just relaxing and taking in some of the most phenomenal views imaginable.

There's lots more information on our dedicated Mt Cook page.

Day 13 - drive from Mt Cook to Christchurch

Distance 327 klm (203 miles)

Driving time 4.25 hours

Time to head back to Christchurch today. Another beautiful drive with the Southern Alps your companion.

A little over an hour from Mt Cook village you will arrive in Tekapo, a beautiful small town on the shores of Lake Tekapo. There's a good range of services here, and if you have time, be sure to stop for some pictures at the Church of the Good Shepherd, one of New Zealand's most photographed attractions.

As your journey continues, the next town is Fairlie (around 45 kilometres). Fairlie is a small service town and in the winter months a popular base for the Mt Dobson and Roundhill ski areas. We hear that the salmon and bacon pies at Lieber Bakehouse are delicious. About 45 kilometres further on, Geraldine is home to a number of boutique fooderies like the Geraldine Cheese Co, Barker's Foodstore and Eatery, and the Humdinger Gin Distilliary. From here it's around 2 hours drive to Christchurch through the patchwork farmlands of the Canterbury Plains.

Day 14 - depart Christchurch

Sadly it's time for your New Zealand adventure to come to an end, and we hope you've enjoyed this New Zealand South Island itinerary.

But hopefully, you are already planning your return visit. Or, consider combining your New Zealand South Island itinerary with a 14 day North Island adventure.

We can't wait to welcome you back.

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