South Island New Zealand Itinerary Routes

July 26th, 2025

Planning a South Island New Zealand Itinerary road trip can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many breathtaking locations like Kaikoura, Mount Cook, Franz Josef, Queenstown, and Milford Sound, it’s challenging to know where to start. In this guide, I’ll showcase five incredible travel routes that connect the island’s remote West Coast with its scenic East Coast, designed for journeys lasting between ten to fourteen days. As a local travel designer, I’ll also provide insights, tips, and access to downloadable itineraries to help you make the most of your adventure. Ready to dive in? Let’s explore!

South Island New Zealand Itinerary – Geography

The South Island of New Zealand stretches over 840 kilometers (about 525 miles) from Picton in the north to Milford Sound in the south. If you’re planning to drive, be prepared for a journey of approximately 1,100 kilometers (685 miles), which translates to about thirteen and a half hours according to Google Maps. However, keep in mind that New Zealand’s roads are often twisty and slow, with plenty of scenic photo stops along the way, so add an extra 10-15% to your estimated travel time.

The Southern Alps act as a natural spine through the island, presenting a unique challenge for travelers. Only a few roads cross from the East Coast to the West, including Lewis Pass, Arthur’s Pass, Lindis Pass, and Haast Pass, along with Hope Saddle in the Nelson Tasman region. These passes range from 600 to 1,000 meters in elevation, adding a touch of adventure to your journey.

Route 1: The Classic 10-Day Adventure

This itinerary spans nine nights and ten days, offering a taste of the island’s diverse landscapes. Start with a night in Christchurch before heading to the Mount Cook region for two nights. Use Twizel or the village of Lake Tekapo as your base to explore Mount Cook National Park.

Continue your journey south to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park, where you’ll spend two nights. This allows a full day to explore Milford Sound, located approximately two hours from Te Anau. Afterward, choose between Wanaka or Queenstown for a two-night stay before heading over Haast Pass to Franz Josef. Conclude your adventure with a scenic train ride from Greymouth back to Christchurch.

Route 2: The Extended 12-Day Journey

For those with a bit more time, this twelve-day itinerary includes a similar route to the first but with added flexibility. Spend two nights in Christchurch, allowing for a day trip to Kaikoura for whale watching and dolphin swimming. Alternatively, visit the picturesque Banks Peninsula and Akaroa, known for its extinct volcano and dolphin tours.

After exploring Christchurch, follow the same path as Route 1, enjoying the diverse landscapes and unique attractions along the way.

Route 3: A 14-Day Exploration from Dunedin

This itinerary offers a different starting point: Dunedin. Known for its albatross colony, yellow-eyed penguins, and the Otago Peninsula, Dunedin provides a rich blend of wildlife and history. Spend two nights here before traveling to Te Anau via the southern scenic route, a beautiful drive through heartland New Zealand.

Continue to Queenstown or Wanaka for a three-night stay, then head to Franz Josef and Punakaiki, famous for its pancake rocks. Finally, travel to the Abel Tasman National Park for two nights of hiking, wine tasting, and exploring the cycle trails before returning to Christchurch via Kaikoura.

Route 4: The Camper’s Delight from Picton

This twelve-day itinerary is perfect for those traveling by camper van or motorhome. Begin in Picton, then head south to Kaikoura for whale watching and dolphin swimming. Cross the scenic Lewis Pass to reach Punakaiki, where the dramatic West Coast scenery awaits.

After a night in Punakaiki, continue south to Franz Josef, then Wanaka, and Te Anau, where you can explore either Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound. Conclude your trip with a drive to Queenstown for your departure.

Route 5: The Ultimate 14-Day Experience

As my personal favorite, this route offers a comprehensive exploration of the South Island. Start in Christchurch and take the Transalpine train to Greymouth, a classic South Island experience. Spend two nights in the Paparoa National Park area, exploring Cape Foulwind and Charleston’s glowworm caves.

Head south to Franz Josef, then through Haast Pass to Wanaka or Queenstown. Spend two nights in Te Anau, then take the southern scenic route to Invercargill and Dunedin, known for its Scottish charm and historical sites. Continue north to the Moeraki Boulders and Mount Cook region before returning to Christchurch.

Choosing the Best Route for Your Adventure

When selecting the best travel route, consider your must-see destinations and key experiences. How much time do you have? Are you comfortable with one-night stays, or do you prefer a more relaxed pace? My golden rule is to stay at least two nights at key locations whenever possible.

Consider your mode of travel: a rental car offers flexibility and value, especially for groups of two to four. Camper vans provide freedom but require a slower pace. Trains offer stunning views but are limited to specific routes. Domestic flights are ideal for covering large distances quickly, so book early for the best deals.

For more detailed information, feel free to check out my other resources and downloadable itineraries. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the South Island of New Zealand promises unforgettable experiences and breathtaking landscapes.

Happy travels!