Charming Towns and Coastal Drives

Discovering the South Island’s Scenic Routes

A South Island road trip in New Zealand is a journey through some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a breakdown of picturesque towns and activities you can explore:

Picturesque Towns:

• Hokitika:
  • Known for its wild West Coast scenery and the Hokitika Gorge, with its stunning turquoise waters.
  • You can find Pounamu (greenstone) carving and enjoy the beach.
• Kaikoura:
  • A coastal town famous for its abundant marine life.
  • Whale watching, dolphin encounters, and seal colonies are major attractions.
  • The backdrop of the Kaikoura Ranges adds to its scenic charm.
• Wanaka:
  • A beautiful lakeside town with stunning views of the Southern Alps.
  • Popular for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and water sports.
  • “That Wanaka Tree” is a very famous photographic spot.
  • The town itself has many lovely shops and resturants.
• Queenstown:
  • While more of a city than a small town, it is a hub for adventure.
  • Surrounded by the Remarkable Mountains, it offers stunning views and a lively atmosphere.
  • Activities range from bungy jumping and jet boating to scenic gondola rides.
• Te Anau:
  • Gateway to Fiordland National Park and Milford Sound.
  • A peaceful lakeside town with stunning views.
  • Glowworm caves and scenic cruises are popular attractions.

Activities:

• Hiking:
  • The South Island is a hiker’s paradise, with trails like the Hooker Valley Track in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and the Routeburn Track.
  • Roy’s peak in Wanaka is also a very popular hike.
• Glacier Experiences:
  • Visit Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers for guided hikes or scenic helicopter flights.
• Wildlife Encounters:
  • Whale watching in Kaikoura.
  • Dolphin and seal encounters.
  • Penguin viewing in places like Dunedin.
• Fiordland National Park:
  • Cruise through Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound for breathtaking fjord scenery.
• Lake Activities:
  • Kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating on lakes like Tekapo, Pukaki, and Wanaka.
• Scenic Drives:
  • The drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.
  • The west coast scenic drive is also amazing.
• Stargazing:
  • Lake Tekapo is within a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, making it ideal for stargazing.
• Wine Tasting:
  • The Central Otago region is known for its world-class wineries.

Key Road Trip Tips:

• Flexibility: Allow for flexibility in your itinerary, as weather can change quickly.
• Driving: Be prepared for winding roads and longer travel times than anticipated.
• Accommodation: Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
• Campervan/Car: Consider renting a campervan for a more immersive experience.