Difficulty
Distance
Recom. Days
Trip type
The first stop in your South Island New Zealand road trip is Christchurch, one of the most famous cities in New Zealand. Starting off in Christchurch, you’ll pick up your vehicle from Indie Campers. You can easily get to the pick-up location from the city center by taking a taxi. If you’re coming from a local airport, there are also shuttle services and taxis available that can get you to Burnside.
Your South Island road trip kicks off in the beautiful city of Christchurch, known as New Zealand’s “Gateway to Antarctica.” The city’s strong European heritage shows in its unique architecture, charming atmosphere, and historic buildings, like the famous Christchurch Cathedral. From sightseeing local landmarks to appreciating the vast nature, Christchurch is a wonderfu introduction to the South Island and everything it has to offer.
Visiting
Christchurch
2
Recom. Days
14 miles (22 km)
from Indie Campers Pick-up Center
21 min
drive
Visit
Christchurch Cathedral
This iconic church built between 1864 and 1904 stands in the famous Cathedral Square.
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve
A wildlife park featuring guided tours and an abundance of beautiful plants and New Zealand wildlife.
Christchurch Adventure Park
Tour a park with zip lines, biking trails, and gorgeous views of Christchurch from a chair lift.
Tasman Holiday Parks
Enjoy a sprawling 5-hectare site with an indoor pool, game room, there are powered sites or pitch a tent off-the-grid and enjoy the park’s amenities.
Stay at
North South Holiday Park Christchurch
Located 5 minutes from the Christchurch airport, this RV resort is an ideal place to rest up and recharge with a pool, free WiFi, playground, BBQ areas, and more. Prices vary by travel date and set-up.
Eat at
Fiddlesticks Restaurant and Bar
$$
Enjoy a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere and vibrant menu, located in the heart of Christchurch’s Arts Precinct.
Little High Eatery
$
Tour nine unique and family-owned restaurants with offerings ranging from wood-fired pizza to tacos and Asian cuisine.
Hello Sunday
$
Grab a bite at this warm, welcoming restaurant known for its signature brunch and three-course evening menu.
Parking
Parking in Christchurch
There is metered parking available in the city starting at $4.80/hour, and you can pay digitally with the PayMyPark app. Most of the metered public parking is available on Bealey Ave, Madras Street, Moorhouse Ave, Rolleston Ave and Hagley Ave.
Lake Tekapo is the second largest of three parallel lakes that run north-south along the Mackenzie Basin’s northern edge. The township also happens to be a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, making it ideal for stargazing. This is the perfect place to pitch a tent or stay in a campervan or RV, enjoying the beauty of nature and the night sky.
Lake Tekapo is known for its breathtaking blue waters and stunning snow-capped surrounding mountains. If you’re looking for a chance to encounter some of the South Island’s best views, you have to visit.
Visiting
Lake Tekapo
2
Recom. Days
143 miles/ 230 km
drive
2h51min
drive
Visit
The Church of the Good Shepherd
A beautiful stone church that makes a great destination on a short hike.
Tekapo Springs
Soak up the warm water and natural views, or hit the slopes for some tubing.
Mount John University Observatory
Uncover the wonders of the night sky at this stunning stargazing destination.
Stay at
Lake Tekapo Holiday Park
Owned by Lakes Edge Lodge, you can rent a powered or unpowered site to enjoy lakefront views and amenities under the incredible Dark Sky Reserve.
Eat at
The Greedy Cow Cafe
$
Enjoy authentic home cooking at a charming mountain restaurant.
Jack Rabbit
$
The perfect spot for comforting breakfast food, brunch bites, and a good brew.
Dark Sky Diner
$$
Tuck into hearty plates with outdoor seating overlooking Lake Tekapo.
Visit the home of New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki, spanning 12,218 feet (3,724 meters). While you’re here, you’ll want to take time to appreciate nature and enjoy the World Heritage-listed alpine region. There is an impressive amount of glaciers here covering up to 40% of the national park; the trails and mountains here attract hikers and adventurers from around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor excursionist or new to camping, Mt. Cook offers incredible stargazing, lake views, and chances to connect with nature.
Visiting
Mount Cook
2 days
Recom. Days
65 miles (105 km)
Lake Tekapo
1h12min
drive
Visit
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Explore incredible mountain scenery, lakes, trails, and glaciers with unforgettable sunsets.
Hooker Valley Track
Take a hike to see Mt. Cook and get a picture of its reflection in Hooker Lake.
Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
Tour a museum to learn about the history of mountaineering throughout New Zealand’s south Alpine region.
Old Mountaineers' Cafe
$$
A “Lonely Planet” pick featuring organic coffee, vegetarian options, and a diverse menu with great views.
Stay at
Glentanner Park Centre
Choose from over 60 powered RV campsites complete with sweeping views of Aoraki Mount Cook. Costs around $35 per night.
White Horse Hill DOC Campsite
Camp within the national park surrounded by mountains and alpine forests; costs $15- $18 per adult & $7.50-$9 per child depending on the time of year.
Lake Wardell Freedom Campsite
Free
Large camping area underneath pine trees. Only for certified self-contained vehicles. Daytime toilets available; overnight campers must use onboard facilities.
Eat at
The Alpine Restaurant
$$$
Stop in for breakfast, dinner, or lunch buffet with floor-to-ceiling windows in the dining room.
Get ready to discover the Adventure Capital of the World! Queenstown is a vibrant town tucked along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, making it a haven for both nature lovers and thrillseekers. Enjoy incredible hikes with breathtaking views, water sports, bungee jumping, picnics, birdwatching, and camping to your heart’s content. Queenstown is known for its scenic driving, The Remarkables mountains , and the beautiful waters of Lake Wakatipu.
Visiting
Queenstown
2
Recom. Days
159 miles (256 km)
Mount Cook
3h12min
drive
Visit
Queenstown Gardens
Tour beautiful waterfront trails and enjoy the striking views and meticulous landscaping.
Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge
Visit the birthplace of bungee jumping at this historic bridge built in 1880.
Onsen Hot Pools
Savor the warmth of a cedar-lined hot tub overlooking Shotover River canyon.
Stay at
Creeksyde Holiday Park
This campervan-friendly park in the heart of Queenstown is a great rest spot; costs start at $65 per night.
Hampshire Holiday Parks
Just 500 metres from Lake Wakatipu, you can rent a caravan site, powered site, or unpowered site at varying prices depending on the season. Rooms and suites are also available.
Eat at
Fergburger
$
High-end burgers and innovative flavors make this one of the most popular spots in Queenstown.
Odd saint
$$
Enjoy a welcoming space loved by locals for its menu inspired by classic American diners and European bistros.
Sunfire
$$
Enjoy dining on the lakefront with fresh ingredients and bold flavours made in a charcoal oven.
Parking
Parking
Boundary Street Car Park offers 33 spots for large vehicles. Freedom camping (camping on a public street) is only allowed if your vehicle is certified self-contained.
Step into the unofficial “Eighth Wonder of the World” in Milford Sound. South New Zealand’s famed fjord offers breathtaking views of towering cliffs, a lush rainforest, and amazing waterfalls. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world surrounded by nature. This is the perfect opportunity to go searching for New Zealand’s wildlife, like penguins, seals, and turtles.
Visiting
Milford Sound
2
Recom. Days
178 miles (287 km)
from Queenstown
4h02min
drive
Visit
Milford Sound Day Cruise
Hop aboard a boat to witness some of the fjord’s incredible wildlife.
Milford Sound Lookout Track
Enjoy a short, scenic hike to enjoy amazing views of Milford Sound.
Lake Gunn Nature Walk
Take a hike to enjoy stunning reflections of the Earl Mountains against serene waters.
Milford Sound Lodge - Campervan Park
Book a reservation to reserve a spot at this popular caravan park. The Camper package includes one night at a powered site, a day cruise, and 60-minute audio guide and map of Milford Road.
Eat at
Pio Pio Restaurant
$$$
Book a reservation at Milford Sound’s only restaurant, known for its French-inspired cooking techniques and craft beer menu.
Parking
Parking
Overnight parking is available at Deepwater Basin Road while the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal offers parking starting at $10/hour.
Relaxing Wanaka is a beautiful, scenic lakeside resort town on the South Island that’s perfect for connecting with nature. Enjoy skiing down snow-capped mountains, water sports, hiking through the Southern Alps; Mount Aspiring National Park, kayaking, andn more.
Even if you don’t consider yourself a thrillseeker, Wanaka offers plenty of peaceful camping opportunities. You’ll feel refreshed and restored as you settle into nature and the pure beauty of the South Island.
Visiting
Wanaka
2
Recom. Days
213 miles (343 km)
from Milford Sound
4h46min
drive
Visit
#ThatWanakaTree
This world-famous tree sits alone on the reflective waters of Lake Wanaka.
Wanaka Lavender Farm
Wander through the peaceful lavender fields, and enjoy adorable alpacas and artisanal goods at the local shop.
Puzzling World
Solve a multi-level outdoor maze and test your mind with optical illusions at this popular attraction.
Stay at
Wanaka Top 10 Holiday Park
Costs at this RV-friendly park start at $89 per night. Enjoy powered sites, suites, and camping with amenities.
Lake Outlet Holiday Park
Starting at $15 per night, you can enjoy rugged camping by the water with gorgeous night sky views.
Mt Aspiring Holiday Park
Rent a secluded camping space for your campervan or RV for $43 a night, which includes access to amenities.
Eat at
Big Fig Wanaka
$
Grab a seat on the patio and enjoy the views as you dine on casual yet creative brunch fare.
Amigos Wanaka
Enjoy a lively atmosphere and vibrant menu of authentic Mexican dishes, including refreshing margaritas.
Muttonbird
Reserve a table to enjoy a rotating menu of seasonal dishes and an excellent wine selection.
Parking
Parking
There are dedicated free parking spots throughout Wanaka ranging from 30-minutes to 4 hours. For overnight parking, you’ll have to book a spot at a holiday park.
42 miles (68.5km)
from Wanaka
1h7min
drive