Ultimate South Island Travel Itinerary in 10 days

September 15th, 2024

Planning a trip to New Zealand? This south island travel itinerary will guide you through a breathtaking 10-day journey filled with stunning landscapes, exciting adventures, and essential tips to enhance your travel experience. Let’s dive into the details and discover the best of New Zealand’s South Island together!

Flight Information for New Zealand

Most travelers arrive at Auckland International Airport. Upon arrival, head over to the domestic terminal. You can either take a 15-minute walk or use the shuttle service between the terminals. This coach runs every 15 minutes.

There are also several airlines flying directly into Christchurch, including Singapore Airlines, Emirates, and Qatar. During the summer season, United Airlines offers direct flights from the USA, which is a significant advantage. From Australia, there are direct flights into Queenstown and sometimes into Dunedin with Air New Zealand, Qantas, and Virgin Australia.

If you are arriving on a long-haul flight from Asia or North America, do not immediately collect your rental car and start driving. Instead, take a taxi or shuttle to your first accommodation. The reason being you will likely be tired, and it is far too dangerous to drive on the first day.

For more detailed information about flights and transportation, check the links in the description box below.

Detailed Itinerary from Dunedin

Day 1-2: Dunedin

Dunedin is a vibrant city known for its rich Scottish heritage, historic architecture, and lively student atmosphere. Begin your journey by exploring the city and its surroundings.

The nearby Otago Peninsula is a must-visit. It is famous for diverse wildlife, including albatrosses, penguins, and seals. Take a combo Albatross and Penguin tour with Monarch Elm Wildlife Tour in the afternoon. In the morning, you can explore other highlights like the local Speights Brewery or the historic Olverston House.

Day 3-4: Te Anau

Pick up your rental car in the morning and travel to Te Anau. If you have time, take a detour via Nugget Point and Invercargill. This scenic route is rewarding in terms of natural beauty.

Spend the next day exploring the Fiordland Region. Head into Milford or Doubtful Sound, or embark on local hikes such as the Kepler, Routeburn, or Milford Track.

Day 5-6: Queenstown, Cromwell, or Wanaka

Travel towards Queenstown, Cromwell, or Wanaka. Queenstown is bustling with activity, while Cromwell and Clyde offer quieter settings, perfect for enjoying local wines, food, and scenic cycling.

Wanaka is another lovely spot to explore the Central Otago Region. Spend your time enjoying the local attractions and activities.

Day 7: Fox or Franz Josef

Travel via the Haast Pass to Fox or Franz Josef. This scenic drive takes you from the dry Otago region into the lush rainforests of the West Coast. Stop at places like the Blue Pools, Ship Creek, or the Monroe Beach Walk along the way.

Day 8: Punakaiki

Head north from Fox and Franz towards Punakaiki. Stop at Okarito, Ross, Hokitika Gorge, and Hokitika Township. Upon arrival, visit the famous Pancake Rocks or explore the Paparoa National Park.

Day 9-10: Nelson Tasman Region

Travel via Cape Foulwind to Westport to see the local seal colony and coastal walk. Continue towards Murchison and the Nelson Tasman region. If you plan to visit Abel Tasman National Park, staying closer in Mapua, Motueka, or Kaiteriteri is advantageous.

Spend two nights in the Nelson Tasman Region with one full day to explore. From Nelson, you can fly out to Auckland or Christchurch. If you can add two more nights, consider visiting Kaikoura for whale watching, dolphin encounters, and other sea-based tours.

TranzAlpine Train Journey Option

If you’re keen on taking the TranzAlpine Train from Greymouth to Christchurch, drop off your rental car at the Greymouth railway station and skip the Nelson Tasman Region altogether.

With two nights in Christchurch, you could take a day tour to Kaikoura or Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula. Both locations offer dolphin encounters and cruises. Kaikoura is also famous for whale watching, seabird tours, seal swims, and kayaking.

Alternative Journey Starting from Queenstown

If you prefer to start your journey from Queenstown, this option works well. Upon arriving in Queenstown, head straight to Te Anau using a rental car or a local transfer service like Tracknet.

Follow the same itinerary as the Dunedin start: 2 nights in Te Anau, 2 nights in Queenstown, Cromwell, or Wanaka, 1 night in Fox or Franz, 1 night in Punakaiki, and 2 nights in the Nelson Tasman region. Use the two spare days for Kaikoura, staying two nights there for a full day of activities.

General Travel Tips for South Island

When traveling during the peak summer season between November and March, early bookings are essential. Pre-book 6 to 8 months prior to arrival for the best accommodation options and to save money on rental cars and airfares.

Alternative transport options like motorhomes require different planning. Another option is to hire a driver-guide for key sections of your itinerary. You don’t need a driver every day, as tours often provide transportation and pick you up from your accommodation.

For more planning tips, check out my New Zealand checklist video. This 10-day south island travel itinerary gives you a great head start. Use the itinerary layout with the recommended services linked in the description box.

Exploring Dunedin: Culture and Nature

Dunedin, with its rich Scottish heritage and vibrant student atmosphere, offers a blend of culture and nature. The city’s architecture and the nearby Otago Peninsula provide a perfect introduction to your South Island travel itinerary.

Start your day in Dunedin by visiting the iconic landmarks such as the Dunedin Railway Station and the University of Otago, which boasts a beautiful campus. The historic Olveston House is another must-see, offering a glimpse into the early 20th century lifestyle.

In the afternoon, head to the Otago Peninsula. This area is renowned for its wildlife, including the rare Northern Royal Albatross. Join a guided tour to see these magnificent birds up close. The peninsula is also home to yellow-eyed penguins and fur seals.

For dinner, try some local seafood at one of Dunedin’s many restaurants. The city’s culinary scene is vibrant, with plenty of options to suit all tastes.

Highlights of Te Anau and Fiordland Region

After picking up your rental car, drive to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. The scenic route via Nugget Point and Invercargill offers stunning coastal views and is well worth the detour.

In Te Anau, spend a day exploring the Fiordland Region. Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound are the highlights, offering breathtaking fjords and waterfalls. Consider taking a cruise or a guided tour to fully appreciate the natural beauty.

If you enjoy hiking, Fiordland has some of New Zealand’s Great Walks, including the Kepler, Routeburn, and Milford Tracks. These trails offer a range of experiences, from short walks to multi-day hikes.

Queenstown: Adventure and Relaxation

Next, head to Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of New Zealand. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or prefer a more relaxed pace, Queenstown has something for everyone.

For thrill-seekers, activities such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and jet boating are readily available. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, take a scenic gondola ride to Bob’s Peak for panoramic views of the town and Lake Wakatipu.

Queenstown also offers excellent dining options. Enjoy a meal at one of the lakeside restaurants, or visit a local winery for a wine tasting experience.

Traveling to Fox and Franz Josef

From Queenstown, travel via the Haast Pass to the West Coast, where you’ll find the famous Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers. This scenic drive takes you through diverse landscapes, from arid regions to lush rainforests.

Both glaciers offer unique experiences. Take a guided heli-hike to explore the icy landscapes, or enjoy a more relaxed walk to the glacier viewpoints. The surrounding rainforests and waterfalls add to the stunning scenery.

Journey to Punakaiki and Coastal Attractions

Continue your journey north to Punakaiki, famous for its Pancake Rocks and blowholes. These unique limestone formations are a must-see and are best visited at high tide when the blowholes are most active.

Along the way, stop at Hokitika Gorge for its stunning turquoise waters and lush surroundings. The small town of Hokitika is also worth a visit for its artisan shops and local crafts.

In Punakaiki, explore the Paparoa National Park. The park offers numerous walking tracks through lush forests, limestone cliffs, and river canyons.

Discovering Nelson and Abel Tasman National Park

Your next destination is the Nelson Tasman Region. This area is known for its sunny climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant arts scene. The drive from Punakaiki to Nelson offers stunning coastal views, especially around Cape Foulwind, where you can visit a seal colony.

Spend your days exploring the Abel Tasman National Park, which is famous for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lush native forests. Kayaking, sailing, and hiking are popular activities here.

For a unique experience, take a water taxi to one of the park’s remote beaches and hike back along the coastal track. The park’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife make it a highlight of any South Island travel itinerary.

Final Thoughts and Additional Resources

This 10-day South Island travel itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and relaxation. From the cultural richness of Dunedin to the natural wonders of Fiordland and the adventure-filled Queenstown, every stop on this journey provides unforgettable experiences.

To make the most of your trip, plan ahead and book accommodation and activities in advance, especially during the peak summer season. Consider alternative transport options like motorhomes or hiring a driver-guide for a more personalized experience.

For more detailed planning, download the free New Zealand travel planning sheet and check out the recommended services linked in the description box. This itinerary provides a solid foundation for an incredible South Island adventure.