New Zealand South Island 2 Weeks

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New Zealand South Island 2 Weeks Itinerary

This two-week New Zealand South Island itinerary covers the region’s top highlights and a few off-the-beaten-path stops without feeling rushed. Expect around 2,500 kilometers of driving, with dramatic scenery including mountains, glaciers, fjords, Lake Tekapo, Aoraki/Mount Cook, Queenstown, Milford Sound, and more—ideal for first-time visitors wanting the best of the South Island.

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With the New Zealand South Island two week itinerary you’ll get enough time to see all the highlights and enjoy the major activities without feeling rushed. This route covers the essential South Island experiences plus a few off-beaten-path stops.

You’ll drive roughly 2,500 kilometers total. Average 200-250 kilometers per day. Plenty of time for stops along the way.

New Zealand South Island – Why Visit?

The South Island wins for dramatic landscapes. Mountains, glaciers, fjords. It’s what you picture when you imagine New Zealand. If you only have 2 weeks for travel first-timers usually choose the South Island. The scenery truly justifies the flight halfway around the world. 3 or 4 weeks gets you both, but to really enjoy your trip and not feel exhausted you are better off spending adequate time in fewer places. And, hey you can always return for the North Island later.

The Four Seasons, Lonely Tree, Lake Tekapo
The Four Seasons, Lonely Tree, Lake Tekapo
Arthurs Pass (Top Left), Hokitika Gorge (Right), West Coast of South Island (Bottom Left)
Arthurs Pass (Top Left), Hokitika Gorge (Right), West Coast of South Island (Bottom Left)
Fox Glacier(Left) and the Franz Joseph Glacier (Right)
Fox Glacier(Left) and the Franz Joseph Glacier (Right)
New Zealand Lakes
New Zealand Lakes
Driving from Mt Cook to Christchurch (Top Left), Christchurch Gondola and the Lyttelton Port, Banks Peninsula (Top Right), Akaroa (Bottom Left) Akaroa Harbor Views (Bottom Right)
Driving from Mt Cook to Christchurch (Top Left), Christchurch Gondola and the Lyttelton Port, Banks Peninsula (Top Right), Akaroa (Bottom Left) Akaroa Harbor Views (Bottom Right)
Lake Tekapo and the church of the Good Shepherd (Top Left), Hooker Valley Track (Top Right), Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Bottom)
Lake Tekapo and the church of the Good Shepherd (Top Left), Hooker Valley Track (Top Right), Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (Bottom)
Mavora Lakes (TL), Omarama Clay Cliffs (R), Welcome Flat Hot Pools (BL)
Mavora Lakes (TL), Omarama Clay Cliffs (R), Welcome Flat Hot Pools (BL)
Hokitika Gorge (TL), Milford Sound (TM), Lake Tekapo (TR), Franz Joseph Glacier (M), Lake Hayes Reflecting Coronet Mountains, Queenstown (B)
Hokitika Gorge (TL), Milford Sound (TM), Lake Tekapo (TR), Franz Joseph Glacier (M), Lake Hayes Reflecting Coronet Mountains, Queenstown (B)
Lake Hawea and Mountains, South Island, New Zealand
Lake Hawea and Mountains, South Island, New Zealand
Queenstown Waterfront (Top Left), Morning view of Lake Wanaka and Buchanan Peaks, (Right), Lake Hayes Reflecting Coronet Mountains, near Queenstown (Bottom)
Queenstown Waterfront (Top Left), Morning view of Lake Wanaka and Buchanan Peaks, (Right), Lake Hayes Reflecting Coronet Mountains, near Queenstown (Bottom)
View of the Church of the Good Shepherd by Lake Tekapo
View of the Church of the Good Shepherd by Lake Tekapo
Milford Sound - New Zealand Travel Itineraries
Milford Sound – New Zealand Travel Itineraries

Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1

Christchurch:

Land in Christchurch. Pick up your rental car. Spend the rest of the day exploring the rebuilt city center. The Christchurch rebuild transformed the city. New container mall. Innovative architecture. Better than pre-earthquake honestly. For those returning to Christchurch it is bittersweet. I spent my university years at Canterbury University in Christchurch. I also lived there for years. So returning post earthquakes was a joy and a sadness. Great to see the new infrastructure and city center. Sad because every landmark I associated with Christchurch was gone.

  1. New Regent Street: Stroll down this colorful pedestrian strip for shopping, views of pastel-colored architecture, cafes, and to catch a ride on the heritage Christchurch Tram.

    New Regent Street Precinct, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch, New Zealand

  2. Cardboard Cathedral opened in August 2013 to replace Christchurch Cathedral, the symbol of Christchurch City, which was damaged by the 2011 Christchurch earthquake. It is a cathedral that cannot be found anywhere else in the world, built using containers for the exterior walls and cardboard for the interior. You will be surprised to see the unique structure inside the cathedral made of cardboard.

    Cardboard Cathedral Hereford Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch, New Zealand

  3. Christchurch Botanic Garden is well loved in Christchurch. Also known as the Garden City, Christchurch is an Anglophile settlement of well-tended gardens and tree-lined streets. Its crowning jewel is the 52-acre (21-hectare) Christchurch Botanic Gardens, attractively set within Hagley Park alongside the winding Avon River.

    Christchurch Botanic Gardens Rolleston Avenue, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch, New Zealand

  4. Christchurch Arts Center is a center for arts, culture, education, creativity and entrepreneurship. The buildings were built in the Gothic Revival style. It is a national landmark and taonga with 21 of the 23 buildings included in the New Zealand Heritage List. Create precious memories with the magnificent architecture.

    Arts Centre, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch, New Zealand

  5. Port Hills & Gondola: Ride the Christchurch Gondola up to the Port Hills for sweeping views of the Canterbury Plains, the Pacific Ocean, and Lyttelton Harbor.

    Christchurch Gondola Bridle Path Road, Heathcote Valley, Christchurch, New Zealand

Day 2

Christchurch, Arthurs Pass and Hokitika

  1. Check out and leave Christchurch

    200 Moorhouse Avenue, Sydenham, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand

  2. Castle HillAn early morning start to Hokitika on the rugged West Coast. The first leg travels through Canterbury plains and into the Southern Alps using the Arthurs Pass crossing. First stop is Castle Hill. Located on the eastern edge of the pass, these massive, weathered limestone boulders are a famous, easy-to-explore geological wonder.1 hour 20 minutes drive.

    Castle Hill, New Zealand, Castle Hill, New Zealand

  3. Arthur's Pass Village: The main hub of the pass, perfect for grabbing lunch or a coffee and meeting the native kea birds in the car park (remember, please do not feed them - and wind up windows or anything shiny will be gone from your car before you get back). 45 minutes

    Arthur's Pass Village, New Zealand

  4. Devil's Punchbowl Falls: An iconic 1-hour return walk through New Zealand Native Alpine Forest to a simply spectacular 131-meter waterfall. And only 1 1 minute drive from the village. 1 minute.

    Devils Punchbowl Waterfall Devils Punchbowl Walking Track, Arthur's Pass Village, New Zealand

  5. Otira Viaduct Lookout: An 8 minute drive from the waterfall. Stop at the parking space for panoramic views of one of NZ's greatest feats of engineering. 8 minutes

    Otira Viaduct Lookout Otira Highway, Arthur's Pass Village, New Zealand

  6. Hokitika: Hokitika is a vibrant West Coast town famous for its 19th-century gold rush history, Māori pounamu (greenstone) carving, and the vividly turquoise Hokitika Gorge. It’s also celebrated for rugged beach sunsets and its quirky, adventurous culinary scene. Be sure to check out Hokitika Beach & Sign, famous for its large driftwood sign made of local beach materials, offering stunning views out to the Tasman Sea. 1 hour 15 mins.

    163 Davie Street, Hokitika 7810, New Zealand

  7. Hokitika Gorge: A 30-minute drive inland from town, featuring an easy swing bridge walk over vibrant, milky-turquoise waters. A must visit destination. 29 minutes drive

    Hokitika Gorge, Kokatahi, New Zealand

  8. Glow Worm Dell: After spending time relaxing, either before or after dinner make sure to check out the Hokitika Glow Work Dell. Enjoy a magical, short and free walk spotting glowing worms at night.

    Glow Worm Dell State Highway 6, Hokitika, New Zealand

Day 3

Hokitika to Franz Josef

  1. Check out and leave Hokitika

    Hokitika, New Zealand

  2. After a leisurely breakfast leave for Lake Mapourika. Explore a UNESCO World Heritage site by kayak or boat to experience spectacular views of the Southern Alps reflected on calm, dark waters.1 hour 37 mins.

    M6C7+9J Waiho, West Coast Region, New Zealand

  3. Drive to Franz Josef Waiau to experience one of the most unique glaciers in the world, Franz Josef Glacier. Being the fastest moving glacier in the world, it means that no two trips are the same. Check in to your accommodation before your afternoon on the Glacier.

    Franz Josef / Waiau, New Zealand

  4. Franz Josef Glacier: Drive to the meeting point for your Franz Joseph Glacier tour. Then hop into the helicopter for stunning aerial views over New Zealand's scenic Southern Alps. . Accessible only by helicopter flight, begin your 2. hour experience with a beautiful scenic flight to the glacier, before embarking on a glacier hike like no other!

    Franz Josef Glacier, West Coast Region, New Zealand

Day 4

Waiau, Haast Pass, Thunder Creek Falls and Wanaka

  1. Check out and leave Franz Josef Waiau

    46 Cron Street, Franz Josef / Waiau 7856, New Zealand

  2. Thunder Creek Falls: Head through the Haast Pass where your first stop is the incredible Thunder Creek Falls. You'll discover a spectacular 28-meter waterfall located a quick, flat 5-minute walk from the main road. 2 hours 40mins drive

    Thunder Creek Falls, West Coast Region, New Zealand

  3. Gates of Haast: Literally 2 minutes drive from the falls, take time to stop for photos at the Gates of Haast, a dramatic, rugged gorge where the roaring Haast River cuts through steep rock faces. Spectacular! 2 mins drive

    Gates of Haast, Mount Aspiring National Park State Highway 6, Mount Aspiring National Park, New Zealand

  4. Blue Pools Walk: This is one of my favorite places in the south island. Stop for an easy, picturesque hike through a beech forest leading to ultra-clear glacial waters. Easy hiking. Remember mosquito lotion! 20 mins drive

    R7QP+QX Makarora, Otago Region, New Zealand

  5. Wanaka: End the days driving in the lakeside resort town of Wanaka. The town is at the southern end of its namesake lake with views of snowcapped mountains and is known as the gateway to the Southern Alps' Mount Aspiring National Park, a wilderness of glaciers, beech forests and alpine lakes. Treble Cone and Cardrona ski resorts are near the park.1 hour drive

    246 Wanaka Mount Aspiring Road, Wānaka 9382, New Zealand

Day 5

Wanaka and Mou Waho Island Reserve

An easy day today, following the long driving day yesterday. Chill out around Wanaka and visit Mou Waho Island Reserve.

  1. Lake Wānaka Waterfront: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the pebble beaches, or rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to paddle out to Ruby Island. Be sure to checkout #ThatWanakaTree, one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand. It is an easy, picturesque 20-minute stroll from the town center.

    13 Tapley Paddock, Wānaka 9305, New Zealand

  2. Mount Iron: A highly accessible 4.5 km loop track that takes about 1.5–2 hours to complete. It offers 360-degree views of the township, lake, and surrounding mountains.

    Mount Iron Track Wanaka-Luggate Highway, Wānaka, New Zealand

  3. Mou Waho Island Reserve: Take a 45-minute boat cruise across the lake to this predator-free island reserve, which features a secluded lake at its summit.

    Mou Waho, Otago Region, New Zealand

Day 6

Wanaka to Queenstown

  1. Check out and leave Wanaka

    61 Brownston Street, Wānaka 9305, New Zealand

  2. Jackson Orchards: After leaving Wanaka Jackson Orchards is a great spot to grab fresh stone fruit, real fruit ice cream, and take a farm tour. 37 minutes drive

    Jackson Orchards Luggate-Cromwell Road, Cromwell, New Zealand

  3. Old Cromwell Town: A beautifully preserved, historic precinct with heritage buildings relocated before the creation of Lake Dunstan. 6 mins drive

    Cromwell Heritage Precinct Melmore Terrace, Cromwell, New Zealand

  4. Roaring Meg Lookout: A scenic viewpoint overlooking a turbulent hydroelectric stream and the Kawarau River. 13 minutes drive

    New Zealand, Cromwell, Kawarau Gorge Road, Roaring Meg Lookout

  5. Pass through the Gibbston Valley, or as it is locally known "the valley of the vines", and stop at the Kawarau Gorge Suspension BridgeThis historic 10-story bridge was built in 1880 and is known as the birthplace of bungy jumping. 19 minutes drive

    Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge, Arrow Junction, New Zealand

  6. Arrowtown: A charming historic gold mining town, famous for its preserved Chinese Settlement and the Arrowtown Bakery. Don't miss this. 13 minutes drive

    Arrowtown, New Zealand

  7. Queenstown is located on the edge of Lake Wakatipu, with the striking Southern Alps as its backdrop. Famous for adventure activities, it also serves as a gateway to the area's vineyards and historic mining communities. Try bungee jumping from the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge or enjoy jet-boating on the Shotover and Dart river. During winter, skiing is popular on the slopes of The Remarkables and Coronet Peak.19 minutes drive

    Queenstown, New Zealand

Day 7

Queenstown

  1. Queenstown Hill: In the morning walk the Queenstown Hill Trail. The track weaves through Douglas firs and native bush, leading to the famous Basket of Dreams sculpture and a rocky lookout at the summit offering spectacular 360-degree views of Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables. 2-3 hours hike

    Queenstown Hill Walking Track Belfast Terrace, Queenstown, New Zealand

  2. Shotover Jet: High-speed jet boating that whips through narrow river canyons. 17 minutes drive

    Shotover Jet Queenstown Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown, New Zealand

  3. Glenorchy: A stunning 45-minute scenic drive from Queenstown, offering Lord of the Rings scenery, tranquil boardwalks, and mountain views. 45 minutes drive

    Glenorchy, New Zealand

  4. Queenstown Gardens:A peaceful peninsula filled with trees, walking tracks, and frisbee golf.

    Queenstown Gardens, Queenstown, New Zealand

  5. The Winery: An interactive, self-serve tasting experience where you can sample Central Otago's famous Pinot Noir right in the heart of town.

    The Winery - Queenstown Ballarat Street, The Mall, Queenstown, New Zealand

Day 8

Milford Sounds

  1. Its an early rise this morning to leave Queenstown at 4am you are aiming for sunrise at the "Misty Mountains".

    93 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

  2. Drive to the Milford sounds with your first stop being theEglinton Valley Several areas in the Eglinton Valley were locations in the Lord of the Rings movies, your view today is of the Eglinton mountains or the Misty Mountains in the Fellowship of the Ring. 2 hours 45 min drive

    WXQV+3P Te Anau Downs, New Zealand

  3. Mirror Lakes. Another quick stop for photos. A stunning natural phenomena! Beautiful clear water with the reflection of mountains! It just feels surreal! 4 mins drive

    X2C6+MG Mavora, Southland Region, New Zealand

  4. Piopiotahi / Milford Sound: is a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage fiord in the Fiordland National Park. Famous for towering peaks like Mitre Peak and cascading waterfalls, it is best explored via scenic boat cruises. Cruises take about 1.5 to 2 hours, taking you past Stirling Falls and Lady Bowen Falls and giving you the chance to spot seals, dolphins, and penguins. 1 hour 5 mins drive

    24 Milford Sound Highway, Milford Sound 9679, New Zealand

  5. Take the return drive to Queenstown, stopping for photos and views along the way. 3 hours 45 minutes drive

    249 Frankton Road, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Day 9

Queenstown to Omarama to Mount Cook

  1. Check out of the hotel and hit the road

    70 Park Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

  2. Omarama: The gateway to the high country and a renowned hub for outdoor activities. 2 hours drive

    1 Omarama Avenue, Omarama 9412, New Zealand

  3. Omarama Clay Cliffs: Explore the spectacular, sharp geologic rock formations, located just a short drive off State Highway 8. 22 minutes drive

    Clay Cliffs Visitor Parking, Quailburn, New Zealand

  4. Wrinkly Rams: Have lunch here and experience their popular sheep shearing and high country dog demonstrations. 22 minutes drive

    The Wrinkly Rams Twizel-Omarama Road, Omarama, New Zealand

  5. Lake Pukaki: As you drive up State Highway 80, stop at the scenic lookouts to see this shockingly vibrant, turquoise lake with Mount Cook in the background. 32 minutes drive.

    Lake Pukaki Viewpoint (Mount Cook Road) Mount Cook Road, Ben Ohau, New Zealand

  6. Mount Cook Aoraki: Check into your accommodation in Mount Cook Aoraki Village. 34 minutes drive

    Mount Cook Village, New Zealand

Day 10

Aoraki Mount Cook

  1. Hooker Valley Track:The park's most popular hike. This 3-hour return walk takes you across swing bridges, past glacial rivers, and ends at a lake right in front of Mount Cookand the Hooker Glacier.

    Hooker Valley track Hooker Valley Track, Mt Cook National Park, New Zealand

  2. Kea Point Track: A relatively easy 2-hour return walk offering panoramic views of Mount Cook, the Mueller Glacier, and the Sefton mountains.

    Kea Point, Canterbury Region, New Zealand

  3. Stargazing: Located in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, this is one of the best places in the world to see the southern night sky

    750 Tasman Valley Road, Canterbury Region 7999, New Zealand

Day 11

Mount Cook / Aoraki to Lake Tekapo, Geraldine, and Akaroa

  1. Check out of the accommodation and head to Tasman Glacier

    23 Glencoe Access Road, Aoraki / Mount Cook 7999, New Zealand

  2. Mount Cook options either: Tasman Glacier View Track & Blue Lakes: A short 15-minute walk up to the terminal lake of New Zealand’s largest glacier, where you can often see small icebergs floating in the milky, turquoise water, Or Glacial Boat or Kayak Tours: Cruise right up to floating icebergs and the terminal face of the Tasman Glacier. 11 minutes drive

    Tasman Glacier Car Park Tasman Valley Road, Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand

  3. Lake Tekapo: A small township in the Mackenzie Basin located at the southern end of the lake of the same name. Visit the picturesque village and lake side, in one of five settlements in the sparsely populated Mackenzie Basin. 1 hour 17 minutes drive

    Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

  4. Church of the Good Shepherd: One of the most photographed spots in New Zealand, this historic stone church was built in 1935 and features an altar window that frames panoramic views of the lake and the Southern Alps. 2 minutes drive

    Church of good Shepherd Pioneer Drive, Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

  5. GeraldineA charming, historic country town situated on the Inland Scenic Route, perfect for a midway coffee and shopping break. 1 hour 6 minutes drive

    Geraldine, New Zealand

  6. Akaroa: Akaroa is a picturesque, French-influenced coastal town situated on an ancient volcanic crater in the Banks Peninsula, just a 1.5-hour drive (86 km) southeast of Christchurch. Known for its rich colonial history, stunning harbor, and rare wildlife, it is a popular destination for boutique shopping, French cuisine, and nature tours. 2 hours 30 minutes drive

    6 Rue Lavaud, Akaroa 7520, New Zealand

Day 12

Akaroa

  1. Dolphin Cruises: Join a nature cruise (such as with Akaroa Dolphins) to spot the world's smallest and rarest oceanic dolphins, blue penguins, and fur seals.

    Ecoseaker - Dolphin Swimming & Harbour Adventure Cruises, Akaroa, New Zealand

  2. Kayaking & Water Sports: Hire a kayak or paddleboard on the main beach to explore remote sea caves at your own pace

    3B Beach Road, Banks Peninsula, Akaroa 7520, New Zealand

  3. The Giant's House: Often called the "Happiest Garden on Earth," this historic home features spectacular, whimsical mosaic artworks and terraced gardens.

    The Giants House Rue Balguerie, Akaroa, New Zealand

  4. Akaroa Museum: Learn about the rich Māori, French, and British history of the Banks Peninsula.

    Akaroa Museum Rue Lavaud, Akaroa, New Zealand

  5. Akaroa Lighthouse: Take a quick stroll down to the historic wooden lighthouse overlooking the water.

    Akaroa Lighthouse Beach Road, Akaroa, New Zealand

Day 13

Akaroa to Lyttleton

  1. Checkout of your accommodation and drive to Lyttleton.

    6 Tirohanga Terrace, Akaroa 7581, New Zealand

  2. Lyttleton: Wander through Lyttleton's quirky, hilly main street. You'll find boutique gift shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes (like the highly recommended plant-filled Arbour Pizza)

    London Street, Lyttelton, New Zealand

  3. Quail Island (Ōtamahua): Catch the Black Cat Cruises ferry out to this pest-free ecological reserve. You can hike the 2.5-hour loop track, explore the island's unique history as a former leper colony, and even spot historic shipwrecks.

    Quail Island, Canterbury Region, New Zealand

  4. Corsair Bay: Take the scenic, one-hour coastal path from the town center to this beautiful, protected beach for a swim or a picnic.

    Corsair Bay, Lyttelton, New Zealand

Day 14

Lyttleton to Christchurch

  1. Check out of your accommodation

    55 Canterbury Street, Lyttelton 8082, New Zealand

  2. Sumner: Depending on your schedule and flight time you can head to relax at Sumner Beach: A popular 400-metre white sand beach ideal for swimming, kite-flying, and relaxing. Lifeguards patrol the area during the summer months.

    Sumner Beach, Canterbury Region, New Zealand

  3. Explore Cave Rock (Tuawera): A unique volcanic lava outcrop that bisects the beach. You can climb to the top for views or walk through the tidal cave to Scarborough Beach.

    Cave Rock / Tuawera Esplanade, Sumner, Christchurch, New Zealand

  4. Walk the Sumner Promenade: A wide, paved path stretching along the coastline. It is perfect for an easy stroll or jog between Cave Rock and Scarborough Park

    52 Esplanade, Sumner, Christchurch 8081, New Zealand

  5. Scarborough Beach: Located at the eastern end of the beach, it is a well-known local spot for surfers. Scarborough Park also features a playground and paddling pool for kids.

    Scarborough Park Esplanade, Sumner, Christchurch, New Zealand

  6. Christchurch: You could also spend more time in Christchurch looking for last minute shopping bargains.

    222 Saint Asaph Street, Christchurch Central City, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand

  7. Christchurch International Airport: head to the airport to drop off your rental car, before walking across to the terminal and check in for your flight.

    Christchurch Airport (CHC) Durey Road, Harewood, Christchurch, New Zealand

New Zealand South Island Day Tours

If your are self driving you may wish to participate in day tours rather than having to navigate everything entirely on your own. Here are a few of our favorites.

New Zealand South Island Favorites

Lesser Known but worth checking out

For Something Completely Different – And Amazing!