The Ultimate 14 Day South Island New Zealand Road Trip

Botanic Gardens

Take a stroll in the blooming gardens or check out the Nobel-prize winning Magnetic Observatory.

Christchurch Arts Centre

Boasted as one of the best Christchurch attractions, the art centre is filled with artworks, cultural exhibitions and events. Spend an afternoon in Rutherford's Den for hands-on activities and science exhibitions galore!

Victoria Park

At only a 20 minute drive away, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Christchurch and take on many walking trails.

Riverside Market

Feast on mouth-watering locally sourced delicacies and stock up on delicious road trip snacks!

Pedro’s House of Lamb

You have to try New Zealand's famous lamb and there is no better place than Pedro’s House of Lamb. Savour a succulent slow roasted lamb meal before you embark on your epic road trip.

Cook 'n' with gas

An award-winning seafood restaurant and bistro serving up homely dishes in a heritage villa. Cook 'n' with gas also appeared on our best restaurants in New Zealand article so you know it's worth it.

Eliza's Manor

A historic 19th century manor with a touch of 20th century luxury, Eliza's Manor is the place to stay for romance and relaxation.

The Muse Art Hotel

This is definitely a unique option. With local art, a rooftop bar and plush luxury decor, you could add a bit of style to your stay in Christchurch.

Mount John

With a 360-degree viewing platform of the dramatic mountains, beautiful lakes and surrounding landscapes; you will want to leave a few hours to explore Mount John.

Quaint church of the good shepherd

Situated on the shores of Lake Tekapo, this quant church is the sole church in the region and well worth a visit.

Tekapo Springs

We highly recommend finishing your day with some stargazing from the hot pools in Tekapo Springs.

TLV Restaurant & Bar

With a view of the lake and mountains and a world-class espresso martini on offer, TLV Restaurant & Bar is a stunning place to dine.

Blue Lake Eatery & Bar

Add this place to your list if you want to try traditional Kiwi dishes like Mount Cook salmon, Canterbury lamb shank and Canter Valley duck leg.

MacKenzies Cafe Bar & Restaurant

A stunning restaurant serving up succulent hot stone meals in front of a floor to ceiling glass window view of the lake.

Peppers Bluewater Resort

Surprisingly inexpensive, this resort hotel boasts incredible views and beautifully decorated rooms.

The Godley Hotel

Snuggle up in this country-style hotel with impressive views of the alpine landscape of Lake Tekapo.

Heli Hiking

Mount Cook is one of only three places in New Zealand where you can take a scenic helicopter ride before climbing the longest glacier in NZ, the Tasman Glacier lake. Pretty epic, right?

Kayak Tasman Lake

Have you ever kayaked on an icy glacier melt? Now is your chance to kayak the stunningly beautiful Tasman Lake with a backdrop of the Tasman national park.

Stargazing with The Hermitage

Mount Cook is recognised as a dark sky reserve and is one of only 8 places in the world with this title. Head to The Hermitage hotel for a night of stargazing through their powerful telescopes.

Lake Pukaki

You will be blown away by the bright turquoise colour of Lake Pukaki, flanked by the alpine Southern alps. It is a road trip photo opportunity you don't want to miss.

Old Mountaineers' Cafe

With remarkable views of the Aoraki Mount Cook, you can cosy up here with a large coffee or beer and watch the world go by.

The Panorama Restaurant at The Hermitage

This iconic Mount Cook hotel is home to a selection of restaurants but their Panorama Restaurant is extra special. Pairing outstanding views with locally sourced and inventive flavours, you are in for a special night here.

The Hermitage

It goes without saying that this hotel is truly unique. With stargazing opportunities and delicious food, you would not regret basing your stay here in Mount Cook.

Aoraki Alpine Lodge

If a serene mountain lodge is what you are craving then look no further than the Aoraki Alpine Lodge.

The Official Lindis Pass outlook

You absolutely must stop at the highest point of the official lookout. At 971m (3,186ft) above sea level, you will get chills from the achingly beautiful dramatic landscape.

Double Peak Hike

If you are craving a short hike to stretch your legs and gain a better view of Lindis Pass then take the 15 minute steep walkway from the lookout. We promise it is well worth it.

Tarras Country Cafe

If you are looking for a stop on your way into Queenstown then look no further than this cute country cafe. With home baked pastries and local dishes, it is a great road trip fuel stop.

Bungy Jumping

The Nevis bungy jump, just outside of Queenstown, is the highest in all of Australasia and could be the highlight of your South Island trip! Just on the 4WD bungy bus from the city and embark on a thrilling adventure.

White Water Rafting

Hurl yourself down the Kawarau river rapids or the shotover river and get your heart beating fast. These gnarly advanced tracks will satisfy any adrenaline junkie's dreams.

Skydive

A tandem skydive is on most people's bucket lists and you can't get a more beautiful location than the South Island adventure capital, Queenstown. Jump from 15,000ft at New Zealand's first ever skydiving location.

Queenstown Hill

Seeking a little less adrenaline? Hike up Queenstown Hill for phenomenal views of the city, Lake Wakatipu and surrounding mountains.

Fergburger

This place is a burger institution and is often on the list of World's best burger joints. Don't miss the opportunity to taste mouth-watering prime NZ beef burgers and their innovative creations like a spicy satay tofu burger.

Rātā

If you are looking to indulge in a fine dining experience then you will not be disappointed with celebrity chef, Josh Emett's restaurant. This luxury restaurant sources local organic ingredients paired with the best New Zealand wines.

Margo's

A long road trip itinerary should be complete with a stop off for some soulful food. At Margo's, you can spend the evening devouring flavourful Mexican dishes paired with creative Margaritas.

Eichardt's Private Hotel

Housed in a historic gold vault, this is one hell of a romantic hotel to stay in! Have a nightcap in front of the fire before retiring to your boutique and comfortable room.

St Moritz hotel

For a more luxurious stay on your South Island road trip, the St Moritz Hotel offers alpine luxury that will make you feel transported to a Swiss-style lodge.

Milford sound cruise

The best way to truly explore this magnificent natural wonder is by boat. Get up close and personal with the spectacular Fjords and feel at peace cruising the calm waters.

Hike the Key Summit

A steep zig-zag climb will take you to the top of Key Summit and immerse you in the outstanding mountain scenery with views from every side of the track.

Scuba Dive Milford sound

The underwater world of a glacial Fjord is utterly unique, with a diverse black coral normally only found in the deep sea. With more than 150 species of fish to spot, a scuba dive is a truly exciting way to explore Milford Sound.

Glowworm Caves

Venture underground at Milford Sound to discover a magical and hidden glow worm cave with a local guide. These caves are a silent and beautiful grotto, providing you with some peaceful enchantment on yo0ur South Island road trip.

Pio Pio at Milford sound Lodge

If you are going to visit Milford Sound then you should think ahead for your food options. Most cruises will provide food onboard but the only restaurant in the area is the amazing Pio Pio. Devour local delicacies like Fiordland wild venison and Marlborough salmon at their stunning indoor or outdoor dining rooms.

Redcliffe Cafe Te Anau

If you like to unwind with home-cooked food and live music then Redcliffe is the place to eat after your day at Milford Sound.

The Fat Duck Te Anau

A gastropub with something for everyone, from local craft beers and charcuterie boards to pub meals and a separate vegan menu. The Fat Duck even has a dedicated and homemade kids menu so you can keep everyone on your South Island road trip happy.

Milford Sound Lodge

As the only accommodation in Milford Sound, we recommend booking early so you can take advantage of the stunning scenery at Milford after dark and early morning before it gets busy.

Radfords on the lake - Te Anau

Lake Te Anau is a beautiful place to stay with views of the mountain and Fiordlands National Park. Radfords on the lake is the ultimate 5 star luxury hotel with a range of suites and apartments to provide you with blissful privacy.

The cinema suites

This quirky and creative hotel is the perfect place to stop for a relaxing break from your full days of adventure. You can relax in their lounge cinema watching a local movie or retire to your colourful room.

Mount aspiring national park

Mount Aspiring is New Zealand's tallest mountain and a hiking lover's paradise. The fascinating National Park is a dreamland of snow capped mountains, glaciers and lakes and definitely worth a stop for a short walk. Make sure you check out the stunning lake Wanaka, New Zealand's fourth largest lake.

Blue pools track

The Makarora River's blue pools and swing bridge is a stop you don't want to miss. Walk over the swinging bridge and admire the pristine and sparkling blue pools below where you can clearly see the marine life and pool bed.

Fantail Falls

Along the Haast river in Mount Aspiring National Park, you will find the scenic fantail falls. We recommend stopping and taking the 0.2 mile short walk track to see this 'secret' waterfall gushing into a giant chasm of turquoise calm waters.

Thunder creek falls

What is better than 1 waterfall? 2 of course! You would be silly not to stop at Thunder Creek Falls observation deck to see the 92ft waterfall made by the melting glacier waters.

Roaring Billy Falls

"Another waterfall?" We hear you say. That's right, we are giving you 3 amazing waterfall stops on this part of the South Island road trip, because you are worth it! Stop at the roaring Billy falls and appreciate the tropical waterfall meandering its way through the wetlands forest of Mount Aspiring National Park.

The Hook

The Hook is an awesome lake to plate restaurant located in Wanaka, just before you hit the Haast Pass. You can actually book in to fish for your own meal before the talented chefs cook up a delicious feast with your catch. Don't like fish? Don't fear, they have a wood fire pizza oven to please everyone!

The Craypot

Situated on the stunning coast, The Craypot is so good it also featured on our Best Restaurants in New Zealand list. Savour some of the best and freshest seafood the South Island has to offer like crayfish chowder and a seafood basket. Yum, yes please!

The Hard Antler

This iconic wild west coast bar & restaurant is the perfect place to cosy up in front of the fire with a local craft beer, Monteiths, and dig into a country style dish.

Heli-Ice climb

If you want to hike on top of the icy crevasses of Fox glacier then you will need to book a helicopter and tour guide to make it there. but, we promise you it is well worth the 6 hour trip and money. There are not many places in the world where you can hike a Glacier so add Fox Glacier to your South Island road trip bucket list!

Glacier Hot Pools

Soothe your muscles and soul in one of 3 natural hot glacier pools surrounded by stunning lush green rainforest. Kids are welcome or you can book your own private pool for that extra bit of tranquillity!

Hike Roberts Point Track

This 12km return hiking track through Franz Josef Glacier offers up stunning views of the glacier and Waiho river. The steep climb at the end is not for the faint hearted but you will be rewarded with an awe-inspiring perspective and incredible photo opportunities.

Alice May Restaurant

Be sure to wrap up warm and grab a seat outside to dine with an outstanding backdrop of the Southern Alps. Tuck into local New Zealand dishes like Whitebait omelette, beef cheeks and Akaroa salmon and make your tummy very happy!

Blue Ice restaurant

A family owned and operated business that has won Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence for several years in a row is the place you want to eat in the Southern Alps! You can even try the famous New Zealand green-lipped mussels, an absolute must on this South Island road trip.

Cook Saddle Cafe & Saloon

Who doesn't love a country saloon with heart meals, live music and a pool table? No one we would want to be on a 14 day road trip with that's for sure. Everyone is welcome at this family friendly restaurant in the heart of Franz Josef township so park up your car rental and grab yourself a local beer or mulled wine.

Rainforest Retreat

Splurge on a family treehouse or luxury cabin surrounded by lush native rainforest in Franz Josef and you could wake up to the soothing sound of nature.

Te Awa Cottages

Located just outside of Franz Josef township are the quaint and beautiful Te Awa Cottages providing panoramic views of the Southern Alps and cute farm animals to watch!

Castle hill

Taking a detour inland on the drive from Franz Josef to Punakaiki will be rewarding when you feast your eyes on Castle Hill. With rolling green hills, interesting rock formations and many beautiful hikes; it is the perfect place to spend a few hours exploring.

Arthur's pass

Hailed as the most spectacular pass across the Southern Alps, you will want to make the detour to Arthur's pass on your drive from Franz Josef to Punakaiki. It will take about an hour inland from the west coast highway and provide you with phenomenal hiking tracks in summer and ski fields in winter. The temple basin ski field in Arthur's Pass is the oldest club-run ski area in New Zealand with picturesque valleys, alpine peaks and waterfalls. Be sure to attach snow chains in the winter.

Paparoa national park

Punakaiki is home to one of New Zealand's greatest walk's, the Paparoa National Park track. It would take you 2-3 days to complete by staying in the National Parks huts along the way. But, we recommend you check out at least some of the track to see the mountain and limestone scenery formed over centuries.

On the Beach Restaurant

An exceptional New Zealand fine dining restaurant with uninterrupted views of the ocean, you would not regret eating here.

Punakaiki Rocks Hotel & Garden Bar

For a more casual and homely affair, check out the Rocks Hotel and feast on wholesome pub classic meals.

Canopy Camping Escapes

With a collection of canopy tents and quaint cabins, this escape could provide you with a magical and unique stay. Book an option with a hot tub and watch the sunset over the rolling green hills.

The Punakaiki Treehouse

Who doesn't love a treehouse? Even the most serious of adults would get excited to stay in a treehouse, we're sure! Stay in one of these studio tree houses with decks overlooking the native bush and live out your childhood dream.

Explore Nelson Wine Region

Boasting 25 cellar doors, you could actually spend a few days here checking out every single one. But, we recommend booking a day trip tour to drive you around so you can enjoy the deep and complex wines in the region.

Nelson Markets

On a Saturday and Sunday, you will find a classic, vibrant Kiwi market offering local produce and handmade crafts.

Tahunanui Beach

At just a 10 minute drive from the city, you could spend a whole day exploring this huge beach. Try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding, go-karting or dive into the Fun Park with your kids.

Hawker House

Inspired by South East Asian street food, Hawker House is a place to share and try new flavours.

Urban Oyster bar & Eatery

Pairing a Michelin-trained chef with the flavours of a local oyster shack and you have yourself a very sophisticated and classy Oyster bar.

Hopgoods

Considered Nelson's best restaurant, Hopgoods is the place to dine for impeccable service and excellent flavours.

The Sails

A rare 5 star motel in New Zealand, The Sails offers up self-contained apartments with luxury furnishings.

Grand Arden Monaco Nelson

Located in a Victorian-style town complete with cobbled streets and laneways, the Grand Arden Monaco is a distinctive stay in Nelson. Each room has its own quirky character and you can take advantage of the gym, bike hire, outdoor pool, hairdressers, beauty salon or jewellers! This is a stylish road trip stay unique to New Zealand South Island.

Canyoning

Step out of your comfort zone, strap up and abseil down the magnificent canyons in Abel Tasman National Park! With an abundance of unspoiled rainforest and natural rock pools, you can truly be at one with nature and satisfy any thrill seeking cravings.

Kayak the bays

The coastline crystal clear waters in Abel Tasman National Park cannot be seen by land, so it is well worth adding a kayaking tour to your South Island itinerary. You can even paddle in a traditional Maori waka!

Walk the Abel Tasman Coast Track

Now this walk is 53km in total but hear us out. This multi-day adventure provides secret swimming spots, natural rock formed slides and an opportunity to wake up in paradise without any crowds.

Hooked on Marahau

With both a burger bar and seafood offerings, Hooked is a great place to fuel up for your day trip adventures.

The Views Vegetarian Restaurant

Located in an eco resort, The Views is a scrumptious vegetarian restaurant offering up hot stone pizzas, platters and wholesome meals.

Beachfront Lodge

If you are tackling the multi-day hike then book a luxury stay in a beachfront lodge and enjoy one of the best sunrises on the west coast.

Awaroa Lodge

You can only get to this place by foot, boat or helicopter so you know it is going to provide a secluded and tranquil place to relax.

Book a wine tour

Leave the car rental behind and book yourself onto a small group tour. You deserve it after driving the length of New Zealand's South Island. Make sure you try the region’s famous Sauvignon Blanc – and maybe check your home country’s customs limits before you go.

Swim with dolphins

Book a spectacular cruise and take a dip in the waters to get up close and personal with the local dolphins.

Marlborough Wine barrel cabins

Nestled between vineyards and olive groves lies the Hobbit style barrel cabins offering up an exciting and quaint stay after a day in the vineyards.

Chateau Marlborough

Recognised as the leading luxury hotel on the South Island, The Chateau is the perfect place to finish your road trip in style.