Queenstown

A road trip in New Zealand's South Island is one of the best ways to discover the country at your own pace. The distances are reasonable, the roads are spectacular, and each stage reveals radically different landscapes: turquoise lakes, alpine mountains, mythical fjords and wild beaches.

This trip is ideal for lovers of nature, freedom and adventure who want to explore the South Island independently and enjoy an immersive experience.

The South Island

The South Island is a natural gem, ideal for a road trip in New Zealand that combines hiking, lakes, glaciers and fjords.

Queenstown, an iconic city, attracts visitors with its outdoor activities and spectacular landscapes. Lake Pukaki, with its turquoise waters, is a must-see for photos and walks. Film buffs will recognise the scenery made famous by The Lord of the Rings, particularly around the Southern Alps and Glenorchy.

Explore the national parks, admire the unspoilt nature at Cathedral Cove or Fox Glacier, and plan your stops according to the seasons to enjoy the best climate. The beaches and rivers offer moments of relaxation, while thrill seekers can try jet boating or bungee jumping.

Practical mini-guide: plan your journeys with realistic distances between each site for a 3-week itinerary in New Zealand. Make a note of free campsites and petrol stations for long journeys.

Christchurch NZ

Discover Christchurch, New Zealand's garden city

Christchurch, nicknamed the ‘garden city’, is the perfect starting point for your adventure. Hagley Park and the Botanic Gardens are a must-see for relaxing after your international flight. The Cardboard Cathedral, a symbol of resilience after the earthquake, and the Re-Start Container Mall, an innovative space with shops and cafés, showcase the creative side of New Zealand culture. Street art dots the streets and will delight photography enthusiasts.

Our practical tip: set aside half a day to cycle between these places and discover the local cuisine in the city's cafés.

Lac Tekapo Nouvelle-Zélande

Lake Tekapo: starry skies and majestic nature

160 km from Christchurch, Timaru is a convenient stopover before reaching Lake Tekapo, world-famous for its starry skies. The dark sky reserve allows visitors to observe the stars and the Milky Way, an impressive sight for any traveller. The Mount John Observatory offers guided tours to explore local astronomy. The lake itself offers walks and swimming depending on the season.

Check the weather before planning your night-time observation and bring warm clothing to enjoy the astronomical experience in comfort.

Mont Cook Nouvelle-Zélande

Head to Mount Cook: hiking and exceptional views

Mount Cook, rising to 3,724 metres, offers accessible hikes and unique views of glaciers and alpine mountains. The scenery is truly breathtaking, and scenic flights from Lake Tekapo allow you to admire the entire Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

Prepare for your hikes with good shoes, maps and water, and choose the flight option if you want to discover the glacier and peaks in a short time.

Roys-peak Nouvelle-Zélande

Wanaka, a town of spectacular scenery

Wanaka charms visitors with its peaceful atmosphere and spectacular scenery. Activities on the lake include paddleboarding, kayaking and boat tours. The famous Wanaka Tree attracts photographers, and Puzzling World is a delight for families. For classic car enthusiasts, the transport museum is an interesting stop.

Allow a full day for Wanaka to combine water activities, cultural visits and hiking in the surrounding hills.

Queenstown Nouvelle-Zélande

Queenstown, a paradise for outdoor activities

Queenstown is the iconic adventure town on the South Island. It offers a wide range of activities for all types of visitors:

For thrill seekers: bungee jumping, jet boating on the Shotover River, rafting and mountain biking in the surrounding area.

For families: cruises on Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Farm, a visit to Kiwi Birdlife Park to discover local birds, and a scenic ride on the Skyline Gondola with views of the city and mountains.

For nature lovers and hikers: trails around Queenstown, bike rides on tracks suitable for all levels, and excursions to the iconic landscapes of the surrounding area.

Practical mini-guide:

  • Book popular activities (Skyline Gondola, cruises) in advance to avoid disappointment.
  • Plan your days according to age and interests: thrills in the morning, nature activities or relaxation in the afternoon.
  • Bring suitable equipment: hiking boots, waterproof clothing and sun protection.
Queenstown eaux turquoise Nouvelle-Zélande

Hiking and cycling

From Queenstown, you can plan a 3- to 4-day itinerary combining hiking, cycling and exploring the fjords and wild coastline. Here is a concrete example:

Day 1: Milford Sound

  • Early departure from Queenstown (4 to 5 hours' drive via Te Anau).
  • Recommended hike: Key Summit Track (3 to 4 hours) to discover panoramic views of the valleys and mountains, ideal before the cruise.
  • Cruise on Milford Sound fjord (2 hours) to see waterfalls, seals, dolphins and vertiginous cliffs.
  • Transport options: bus + boat or plane + boat depending on your budget and time.

Day 2: Te Anau and surroundings

  • Short walks around Lake Te Anau: Lake Marian Track (3 to 4 hours round trip) to reach a glacial lake surrounded by mountains.
  • Option to hire a bike to ride along the coastline and forest trails around the lake.
  • Overnight stay in Te Anau to enjoy this pleasant village before hitting the road again.

Day 3: Invercargill and Southern Scenic Route

  • Drive to Invercargill (2 hours from Te Anau).
  • Explore the surrounding area by bicycle: cycle paths and short hikes in the region's nature parks.
  • Then take the Southern Scenic Route, one of New Zealand's most beautiful roads, to Dunedin. The route passes through cliffs, forests and wild beaches.
  • Recommended stops: Curio Bay to watch the penguins, and Nugget Point Lighthouse for spectacular panoramic views.

Day 4: Dunedin and its surroundings

  • Hike on the Otago Peninsula, famous for its wildlife (albatrosses, sea lions, penguins).
  • Cycle along small coastal roads to enjoy unspoilt landscapes and secluded beaches.

Our practical advice:
- Bring waterproof and warm clothing, as the weather can change quickly on the west coast.
- Bring a camera and binoculars for wildlife and panoramic views.
- If you are short on time, opt for the bus + Milford Sound cruise combination and use Te Anau as a base for hiking.
- For cyclists, check the condition of the trails and hire a bike suitable for long-distance cycling.

Cascade NZ

Catlins Excursion: Waterfalls and Coastal Landscapes

The Catlins, located between Invercargill and Balclutha on the South Island, offer an authentic experience of New Zealand's nature, with wild landscapes and remarkable biodiversity. This region is ideal for a day trip or two, combining light hiking, wildlife viewing and coastal panoramas.

Stage 1: McLean Falls

  • One of the highest waterfalls in the region.
  • Hike duration: 15 minutes to reach the first level.
  • Easy trail, accessible to all.
  • Highlights: majestic waterfall, native forest, spectacular photo opportunities. 

Stage 2: Matai Falls and Table Hill

  • Located near the main road, these waterfalls can be reached by a short 10–15 minute walk.
  • The scenic Table Hill Reserve offers views of the coast and local vegetation.

Stage 3: Nugget Point Lighthouse

  • An iconic lighthouse in the region, offering panoramic views of the ocean and rock formations known as the ‘Nuggets’.
  • The observation deck allows visitors to admire the landscape even when the lighthouse is closed to the public.
  • Seals and seabirds can be spotted from the coastal path.

Stage 4: General discovery of the Catlins

  • The road passes through forests, cliffs and secluded beaches.
  • Cultural riches: historical remains and picturesque villages.
  • Please note: the region has been affected by earthquakes, which adds a unique character to the landscape.

Our practical advice:
- Allow at least one full day to explore the main sites.
- Bring waterproof clothing and comfortable shoes for the trails and waterfalls.
- For photography or wildlife enthusiasts, set off early in the morning to take advantage of the light and active animals.
- Map or GPS recommended: some paths are poorly signposted and network coverage may be limited.

Baleines à bosse

Kaikoura, whale watching

Kaikoura is a prime location for whale watching. Whether by boat, plane or helicopter, the experience is unforgettable. Further north, Nelson enjoys a sunny climate and offers water sports and hiking in Abel Tasman National Park.

Book your excursions in advance and combine wildlife viewing with coastal hikes to maximise your experience.

FAQ: practical guide for a road trip in New Zealand

How long does it take to travel around the South Island?

A three-week itinerary in New Zealand allows you to explore the South Island at a leisurely pace, combining lakes, fjords and hiking.

Can you combine the North Island and South Island?

Yes, but the South Island has the most iconic landscapes. The North Island is perfect for a second trip, with Lake Taupo, Huka Falls, Wai O Tapu and the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

When is the best time to travel?

November to March offers optimal conditions for hiking, skiing, cruises and stargazing.

Should you hire a car or a campervan?

Both are suitable: a campervan allows for more independence, while a car offers flexibility in terms of accommodation.

Which sites are a must-see for nature and landscapes?

Milford Sound, Fox Glacier, Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook, Catlins and Kaikoura are among the most spectacular.

Can Lord of the Rings fans visit filming locations?

Yes, several sites around Queenstown and Glenorchy allow you to rediscover the film's legendary settings.