Day 1
Queenstown – Moke Lake (9 miles)
Begin your New Zealand adventure by collecting your campervan from THL Queenstown branch in Frankton. Explore Queenstown's charms, then take a leisurely drive to scenic Moke Lake for outdoor activities.
Suggested Overnight: Moke Lake Campsite
Day 2
Moke Lake – Glenorchy (29 miles)
Glenorchy, a small but stunning South Island town, offers remarkable natural beauty. Explore the settlement of Paradise for Lord of the Rings landscapes, visit Mrs Woolly's General Store, and enjoy walks like Glacier Burn Track.
Suggested Overnight: The Headwaters
Day 3
Glenorchy – Queenstown (27 miles)
On your return to Queenstown, don't miss the 6.4 km Mt Crichton Loop Track, showcasing Twelve Mile Creek's history. For adrenaline, experience the renowned Shotover Jet ride's thrilling adventure.
Suggested Overnight: Queenstown’s TOP 10 Holiday Park
Day 4
Queenstown – Te Anau (106 miles)
Start your day with Ferg Baker's coffee and breakfast before driving to Fiordland National Park. Enjoy Milford Sound cruises or Lake Marian Track walks. Visit Te Anau Bird Sanctuary to spot unique birdlife like the Takahe.
Suggested Overnight: Te Anau TOP 10 Holiday Park
Day 5
Te Anau – Invercargill (96 miles)
Enjoy a scenic drive to Invercargill, stopping at Curio Bay to spot Hector's dolphins and yellow-eyed penguins. Explore Queens Park's gardens in the city and visit Motorcycle Mecca and Bill Richardson Transport World.
Suggested Overnight: Amble On Inn Holiday Park
Day 6
Invercargill – Bluff (16 miles)
Today, explore Bluff, South Island's southern tip. Try the famous Bluff oysters, attend the Bluff Oyster Festival in May, and visit the maritime museum for its rich history. Don't miss Stirling Point's iconic signpost.
Suggested Overnight: Bluff Camping Ground
Day 7
Bluff - Kaka Point (106 miles)
Kaka Point, a coastal gem, offers surfing and wildlife sightings like fur seals and yellow-eyed penguins. Enjoy a serene bush walk and end the day with a seafood dinner at The Point.
Suggested Overnight: Kaka Point Camping Ground
Day 8
Kaka Point – Dunedin (62 miles)
Explore Dunedin, South Island's second-largest city, renowned for its heritage, wildlife, and culture. Don't miss Larnach Castle, Dunedin Botanic Gardens, and the Dunedin Museum of Natural History for unique experiences.
Suggested Overnight: Dunedin Holiday Park & Motels
Day 9
Dunedin – Wanaka (169 miles)
Start early for a 3.5-hour drive to Wanaka. Relax on a wine tour, like the Boutique Wine Tour, meeting winemakers and enjoying tastings. If you’re visiting between September and May, visit Wanaka Lavender Farm for lavender ice cream and honey products.
Suggested Overnight: Wanaka TOP 10 Holiday Park
Day 10
Wanaka – Aoraki/Mount Cook (127 miles)
On day 10, soar high with a scenic helicopter flight for unparalleled views of Aoraki/Mt Cook and Fox Glacier. Or opt for the breathtaking Hooker Valley Track, offering stunning views of the Southern Alps.
Suggested Overnight: Glentanner Park Centre
Day 11
Aoraki/Mount Cook – Lake Tekapo (51 miles)
No South Island journey is complete without Lake Tekapo. Capture its beauty with the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and vibrant lupin flowers. Hike the Tekapo Mt John Walkway for breathtaking panoramas.
Suggested Overnight: Lakes Edge Holiday Park
Day 12
Lake Tekapo – Geraldine (55 miles)
Stay in Geraldine for a night on your South Island journey. Explore history at the Vintage Car & Machinery Museum, stroll through Talbot Forest, and witness the southern night sky at the Observatory.
Suggested Overnight: Geraldine TOP 10 Holiday Park
Day 13
Geraldine – Akaroa (117 miles)
Travel to the charming French village of Akaroa, stopping at the Little River Café and Store for lunch and Birdlings Flat for beachcombing. Explore The Giants House for extraordinary mosaic artworks and sculptures.
Suggested Overnight: Akaroa TOP 10 Holiday Park
Day 14
Akaroa – Christchurch (50 miles)
On your final day of the South Island road trip, explore Christchurch before returning your maui camper near the airport. Ride the tram, visit The Arts Centre, shop on New Regent Street, and savour Rollickin Gelato.
