Experience the BEST of New Zealand's South Island with this epic road trip, taking you to the top destinations, and tons of hidden gems!  

Fiordland, Southland, New Zealand

Kaikōura, New Zealand

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

Wānaka, New Zealand

Hokitika, New Zealand

South Island, New Zealand

Milford Sound, Southland, New Zealand

Kaiteriteri, New Zealand

Franz Josef Glacier, West Coast, New Zealand

Christchurch, New Zealand

Mount Cook, Canterbury, New Zealand

Abel Tasman National Park, South Island, New Zealand

Hanmer Springs, New Zealand

Queenstown, New Zealand

West Coast, New Zealand

New Zealand's South Island | Epic 14 Day Road Trip

So you've decided to visit one of the most spectacular and unique places on earth, New Zealand.  Known as Aotearoa or the "Land of the Long White Cloud" by the local Maori culture,  New Zealand is an island chain of three main islands located in the South Pacific Ocean,  around 1,500km (931 miles) off the east coast of Australia. 

New Zealand is a captivating and diverse country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, consisting of two main landmasses, the North Island and the South Island, along with numerous smaller islands.

 Its unique geological, biological, and cultural history, coupled with its stunning landscapes and pleasant climate, make it an appealing destination for travelers.

Geological History: New Zealand's geological history is characterized by its position on the boundary between the Pacific and Australian tectonic plates. The country is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, which results in a dynamic and often geologically active environment. It's known for its dramatic landscapes, including mountains, fjords, geothermal areas, and active volcanoes. Notable features include the Southern Alps on the South Island and the volcanic plateau of the North Island.

Biological Diversity: New Zealand is renowned for its unique flora and fauna, which evolved in isolation due to its remote location. It is famous for its flightless birds, such as the kiwi, and its ancient native trees like the kauri. The country is also home to a wide range of marine life, including seals, whales, and the world's smallest dolphin, Hector's dolphin. Efforts to preserve this unique biodiversity are ongoing through conservation programs.

Cultural History: The indigenous Maori people have a rich cultural heritage that predates European arrival. They arrived in New Zealand around the 13th century, bringing with them a distinctive Polynesian culture, language (Te Reo Maori), and traditions. European exploration and colonization began in the late 18th century, leading to a blending of cultures that is evident in modern New Zealand society. The Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 marked a significant historical event in the relationship between Maori and European settlers.

Geography: New Zealand's geography is incredibly diverse, ranging from subtropical beaches in the north to alpine glaciers in the south. The Southern Alps, running through the South Island, contain the country's highest peak, Aoraki Mount Cook. The fjords of Fiordland National Park, like Milford Sound, offer breathtaking natural beauty. The North Island boasts geothermal wonders like Rotorua and Taupo, while both islands have lush forests, lakes, and pristine coastlines.

Climatic Zones: New Zealand experiences a variety of climatic zones due to its geographical diversity. The North Island has a temperate maritime climate with mild temperatures, while the South Island features more pronounced seasonal variations, especially in the alpine regions. The west coast of the South Island is known for its high rainfall, while the east coast is drier.

Appeal to Travelers: New Zealand is a dream destination for travelers for several reasons: 

Scenic Beauty: The country's diverse landscapes offer some of the most stunning and untouched natural beauty in the world, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Outdoor Activities: New Zealand is an adventure lover's paradise with opportunities for hiking, skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, kayaking, and more.

Cultural Experiences: Travelers can learn about the rich Maori culture, enjoy traditional Maori cuisine and arts, and participate in cultural events and performances.

Wildlife and Conservation: The chance to see unique and endangered wildlife and engage in conservation efforts is a significant draw.

Hospitality: New Zealanders are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, making travelers feel at home. 

Safety: It's often considered one of the safest countries to visit, with low crime rates and a well-developed tourism infrastructure. 

Overall, New Zealand's geological, biological, and cultural richness, stunning landscapes, and outdoor activities make it an incredibly appealing destination for travelers seeking a unique and memorable experience.

  A quick note about this guide.  If you want to travel New Zealand by campervan, you will probably have to pick up/ drop off from Auckland or Christchurch, as most of the companies run their locations from these two cities.

New Zealand is a great country to travel by campervan, since "freedom camping" is allowed in many parts of the country if you're in a certified self contained vehicle.  

Lots of companies rent these vans, which allow you to sleep for free in many places, or for $10-25 in campgrounds across the country.  This really helps keep costs down,.

 If you're looking into renting a camper.  Check out Spaceship Campers who offer good deals on campervans.  They only have pickups out of Christchurch or Auckland.

Spaceships Rentals New Zealand - How to get the best deals & discounts on campervan hire in New Zealand

Christchurch, nestled on New Zealand's South Island, is a vibrant city pulsating with a unique blend of heritage, culture, and natural beauty. Renowned as the "Garden City," Christchurch boasts an array of attractions that cater to diverse interests.

Make your way from Nelson along the northern coast through Nelson, which is the main city in the region,  this is a good spot to stock up on groceries as Kaiteriteri is a very small town. 

Grab a coffee at the Baker's Coffee Shop if you need a quick caffeine break and a late breakfast. 

After you've got your groceries, continue along Highway 60 out of Nelson toward Motueka.

Motueka is a very fertile part of the country, known as the Fruit Bowl of the South Island, it's also famous for its hops, the key ingredient in beer brewing.   Stock up on fresh fruit at one of the road side fruit and veg stores, and make sure you grab some craft beer from 

Continue driving to Kaiteriteri and stay at one of the camp grounds in town.   It's worth booking your camp ground as this is a popular spot and tends to sell out.  If you can't book in Kaiteriteri proper, consider staying in Motueka.

Enjoy your day relaxing on the beach in Kaiteriteri.   Take a walk to 

You can rent kayaks on the beach at Kaiteriteri Beach and go for a paddle up to Split Apple Rock, another great way to get a feel for the coastline.

Today I suggest you go for a day hike in Abel Tasman National Park.  You can book a day trip into the park where a boat picks you up, takes you on a scenic cruise, drops you off so you can walk 7-10km on the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, deep in the pristine lush tropical forest, and then picks you up later in the day and takes you back to Kaiteriteri.

Alternatively you can do a similar style trip but via Kayak.

There are lots of options to choose from,  find out more and book here. 

Book Kaiteriteri Activities Here

Maruia, New Zealand

Start your day early in Kaiteriteri and say goodbye to the beach, at least for the next day or so. 

We're driving up and over the Southern Alps, and it's going to be awesome!

Start driving back towards Nelson and when you get to Richmond take a right and head up Highway 6 towards the Nelson Lakes National Park.

This is an awesome spot to stop for a picnic at the lake.  It's so serene and untouched, you'll want to stay longer.  Don't forget to bring your camera because there are some great photo opportunities.  

You can go for a hike along the lake as well, there's lots of hiking in the area, and you're not in a huge rush today so I'd hit the trail for an hour or so and nosy around. 

Once you've had a bit of an exploration, hop back in your vehicle and drive down through the town of Murchison before you hang a left on Highway 63 to Maruia.

 Murchison is a frontier gold mining town and has some really cool antique shops, so stop, have ice cream, and go for a shop.

When you're finished drive up to Maruia Hot Springs.

You can stay here in the campervan camping spots, which cost significantly less than the hotel rooms, and have access to the spas and hot springs.  It's a stunningly beautiful and relaxing place.  Just make sure you bring your bug spray for the outdoor pools.  

Also if you're on a budget bring your own food to cook dinner and breakfast because there is only the hotel restaurant in the area for dining and it's kind of pricey.

Enjoy the evening relaxing in the thermal pools and get an early night,

Today is a big driving day all down the West Coast of the South Island.

Fox Glacier, New Zealand

The goal is to make it to the glaciers,  the West Coast is home to two major accessible ice fields,  Franz Joseph and Fox Glaciers.

But before we get there, we've got to cover some ground.

Driving down from Maruia you'll hit the coast at Greymouth, a fishing village and regional "city".  I say that in parenthesis because it's a stretch for the word. 

New Zealand's South Island | Epic 14 Day Road Trip

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