With Queenstown as your basecamp, explore some of the most epic parts of New Zealand from Milford Sound (seventh wonder of the world?) to Blue Pools, waterfalls and tasty treats.

New Zealand

Milford Sound, Southland, New Zealand

Queenstown, New Zealand

Mount Aspiring, West Coast, New Zealand

New Zealand | 10 Day Road Trip from Queenstown (Kid friendly)

Arrive by car or via Queenstown airport. You'll need a vehicle for this itinerary. I highly recommend a camper van or car and tent though it can be adjusted to stay in hotels and holiday parks.

From our experience with a couple van rentals and a whole lot of research, these are my two recommendations:

Jucy seems to consistently be the cheapest option. That's because their vans are pretty old (10-15 years) and they show it. The vans feel more worn down on the inside and you can hear the engine working hard on steep hills. However, it works well enough and they have a 4-berth (meaning there are 4 seatbelts and 2 double beds) option for families.

Britz has a fleet of newer vehicles and higher end options depending on your budget and preference. They feel much newer and nicer on the inside. You can choose from a Hiace or a Sprinter van (with a shower and microwave). They have 4-berth options as well.

There are certainly other options in Queenstown, especially if there are only 2 of you and you're up for a smaller van/vehicle with less indoor 'living' space.

After that, this day is dedicated to enjoying Queenstown. As your arrival times will vary, here is a list of my favorite things to do (and ways to relax) on our first day in town in no particular order.

Don't forget to check out the shops and walk around the cute town too.

Tomorrow's explore is the Te Anau region and its about a 2 hour and 20 minute drive from Queenstown. So you have a couple options here.

Here's a brief overview to get you started. For all the details, drive times, and a list of accommodations to book ahead, head on down to the lower sections.

Day 9: Transit back to Queenstown for a half day in town

I am so excited you get to experience some of New Zealand's most incredible locations in this 10 day road trip itinerary. With Queenstown as your basecamp, you'll spend some days in town in addition to visiting quaint towns and epic National Parks in the region. Ready? Let's do this!

If you arrive late in the day or want to enjoy more time in Queenstown into the evening, you may choose to stay close to town.

Staying at Driftaway? Use code BAILEY20 for 20% off your stay!

If you want to split up the drive and do a low-budget option, there are a couple freedom camping sites around a 1 hour drive from Queenstown.

After a DIY breakfast, hit the road for a day of views and water play.

Budget option: there are a number of DOC campsites along Milford Road before you enter the Sound. Those tend to go for $15 per person per night with minimal facilities. I find the CamperMate app (linked below) is the easiest way to look at them, then google them or find them on the DOC website (linked below) to prebook.

Grab a last egg and bacon pie from Fergbaker and eat it along the lakefront as you say goodbye to beautiful Queenstown and head on home today.

Ice Bar Experience

Start the day with a 20 minute drive to Arrowtown. It is an absolute *must* see for autumn colors. Grab a coffee and treat at Patagonia Chocolates then wander around the cute shops in town.

When you've had your fill of Arrowtown, make the 50 minute drive to Wanaka. Grab lunch or dinner at one of the food trucks near Burger Club or a more upscale restaurant along the lake front.

Stop at the museum to rent a gold pan then find a spot along the river to try your luck at gold panning. A walk or explore along the river trail is lovely as well.

Don't forget to stop in the Remarkables Sweet Shop for fresh fudge. I love the peach o's too.

If you're going the hotel route, I recommend finding a spot to stay in Wanaka. Otherwise...

Fergbaker

Bathhouse Playground

Queenstown Bay Beach

Patagonia Chocolates - Ice Creamery & Chocolaterie

12 Mile Delta

Driftaway Queenstown

Lumsden Freedom Camping

New Zealand | 10 Day Road Trip from Queenstown (Kid friendly)

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