Breathtaking 14-day South Island road trip

It’s the first day of your awesome New Zealand road trip and time to pick up your pre-booked campervan hire. Head on in to maui’s Queenstown branch in Frankton. It’s nice and handy to the airport if you’re flying in. The friendly maui team will talk you through how everything works and answer any questions you might have. If you’ve just had a long flight, you might like to take it easy today and explore the shops, art galleries, and speciality stores in Queenstown. Don’t forget to stock up on supplies at one of the local supermarkets. 

Today, we suggest easing into your road trip with a relaxed drive to beautiful Moke Lake. Enjoy the 20-minute scenic drive along Glenorchy-Queenstown Road for about ten minutes before turning right on Moke Lake Road. Nestled among magnificent mountains, this beautiful lake attracts outdoor enthusiasts keen on hiking, cycling, and swimming. Stretch your legs along the two-hour Moke Lake Loop Track which winds its way right around the edge of the lake. 

Park up for the night at the peaceful Moke Lake Campsite.

It may be tiny, but the South Island township of Glenorchy is big on natural beauty. This pretty little township is the perfect place to unwind, relax, and enjoy some seriously awe-inspiring scenery. While you’re here, explore the settlement of Paradise where you can see some of the landscapes featured in Lord of the Rings. Make sure you call into Mrs Woolly’s General Store. This charming store is a treasure trove of goodies, offering a delightful selection of gifts, outdoor gear, clothing, and delicious local treats. And don't forget to indulge in their famous Full Monty gelato sundae – a truly sinful delight.

Just a short stroll from Mrs Woolly's, you'll find yourself at the captivating Lake Wakatipu and a scenic lagoon boardwalk. This makes it an ideal starting point for embarking on some of the most spectacular walks in the South Island such as the Glacier Burn Track. This 2–4-hour walk takes you through beech forest to Glacier Basin and offers up great views of the Humboldt Mountains. 

Enjoy a stay at The Headwaters. This unique, award-winning campsite is eco-friendly in every way. Not only that, but it’s also an incredibly beautiful and welcoming place to stay. 

Today you’ll head back to Queenstown, but plan a stop along the way to take a hike along the 6.4 km Mt Crichton Loop Track. A favourite with locals, this loop track follows sections of Twelve Mile Creek through red beech and native manuka. During the gold rush era, Twelve Mile Creek Gorge was intensively mined, and remnants of sluicing operations can still be seen. A short detour below the historic Sam Summers Hut unveils an impressive rock tunnel that once served as a tailrace.

Keen on some adrenaline-fuelled adventure during your South Island road trip? Brace yourself for the world-renowned Shotover Jet experience. One of the top South Island attractions, this thrilling ride combines jaw-dropping scenery with unforgettable excitement. 

Enjoy a well-earned rest at Queenstown's TOP 10 Holiday Park.

Wake up bright and early and treat yourself to coffee and breakfast from Ferg Baker before you make the drive to Fiordland National Park. This part of the South Island is truly special and incredibly beautiful. Take your pick of unforgettable experiences, from a cruise on the Milford Sound to walking the Lake Marian Track. 

If you’re keen to meet some of New Zealand’s unique birdlife while you’re here, head along to the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary. Located on the picturesque shores of Lake Te Anau, the sanctuary is just a short 15-minute walk from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre. Keep your eyes open for the pre-historic-looking Takahē. This flightless bird is protected in New Zealand and has special significance to Ngāi Tahu, the iwi (Māori tribe) of most of New Zealand’s South Island. Entry is free for self-guided visitors, although donations are very much welcomed and essential to the running of the sanctuary. 

Enjoy a stay at Te Anau TOP 10 Holiday Park. This conveniently located park is just across the road from shops and restaurants and a few minutes’ walk to the lakefront. 

Take a relaxing drive through rural farmland today as you head to Invercargill, New Zealand’s southernmost city. Along the way, plan a stop at Curio Bay. This special spot is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Hector's dolphins can often be spotted frolicking in the surf during summer. You might also see protected yellow-eyed penguins making their way ashore in the late afternoon.

When you arrive in Invercargill, stretch your legs with a wander through Queens Park. This sprawling 80-hectare New Zealand Garden of National Significance features manicured gardens, wildlife habitats, and sports areas. 

If you’re a motoring enthusiast, be sure to check out Motorcycle Mecca, the Southern Hemisphere’s leading motorcycle museum. Next, head to Bill Richardson Transport World where you’ll find a treasure trove of rare vehicles and nostalgia. 

Park your campervan up for the night at Amble On Inn Holiday Park. The holiday park is located in a quiet, peaceful spot but is still nice and handy to the main city. 

Today you’ll be parking up at the very bottom of the South Island in the tiny township of Bluff. 

The gateway to Stewart Island, Bluff is also home to the world-renowned Bluff oysters. Celebrated during the lively Bluff Oyster Festival in May, these delectable delicacies are a must-try for seafood enthusiasts. If you’re keen to get your fill, time your visit for the oyster season which runs between March and August. 

As the oldest European settlement in New Zealand, Bluff also boasts a fascinating history. Check out the maritime museum for exhibits on whaling, oystering, and shipwrecks.

A must-visit attraction in Bluff is the iconic signpost at Stirling Point. This renowned landmark proudly displays distances to major cities worldwide and marks the start of State Highway 1 which stretches across the entire length of New Zealand.

Park up for the night at the Bluff Camping Ground and enjoy the views of passing ships along the seascape at night. 

The charming seaside village of Kaka Point is not only a haven for keen surfing enthusiasts but also a sanctuary for New Zealand wildlife. Keep an eye out for fur seals, yellow-eyed penguins, and sea lions during your visit. And if you're in the mood for a tranquil bush walk, the 1.6 km loop at Kaka Point won’t disappoint. The walk can be started at either Rata or Totara Street. To top off your day, enjoy a tasty seafood dinner at The Point. 

Put your feet up tonight among the birdsong and native bush at Kaka Point Camping Ground. It’s just metres from the beach and a short walk from Nugget Point.  

The second-largest city in New Zealand's South Island, Dunedin is celebrated for its rich heritage, captivating wildlife, and vibrant culture. And that means there’s plenty to see and do while you’re here. Our top picks include a visit to Dunedin’s Larnach Castle – New Zealand’s one and only castle. You might also want to add a stop at Dunedin’s Botanic Gardens to your travel itinerary. Spanning 30 hectares, the garden collections range from roses and rhododendrons to natives and endangered species. And for something a little unusual, stop in at the Dunedin Museum of Natural History.  This small but fascinating museum showcases a remarkable assortment of bones, skulls, peculiar artefacts, and biological curiosities. 

Tonight, relax and enjoy the great facilities at the Dunedin Holiday Park & Motels.

Wake up bright and early today as you’ll be driving for 3.5 hours to beautiful Wānaka. Once you arrive, why not let someone else do the driving and relax on one of the region’s excellent wine tours. We suggest booking into a Boutique Wine Tour. This half-day tour will give you the chance to meet local winemakers and vineyard owners and is perfect for wine novices through to connoisseurs! Enjoy wine tastings and a mid-afternoon platter. Don’t forget to pick up a bottle or two to enjoy later. 

If you’re visiting between September and May, you might like to visit the Wānaka Lavender Farm. Sample the lavender ice cream, beauty products and Lakes Honey produced on the farm. 

Top off your day with a good night’s sleep at Wanaka TOP 10 Holiday Park.

It’s day 10 of your South Island road trip, and it’s a big one! Today, you’ll be getting the best views possible of Aoraki/Mt Cook. Yep, we suggest you go big and book into a once-in-a-lifetime scenic helicopter flight. Take in the unbeatable views of Mt Cook and Fox Glacier from above. You can even land on the snow for a photo and to breathe in the fresh alpine air. 

Prefer to keep your feet on terra firma? The 10 km (return) Hooker Valley Track offers breathtaking views of the Southern Alps and iconic Mount Cook (Aoraki). Enjoy a picturesque journey through alpine meadows, past glacial rivers and across swing bridges. For a truly unforgettable experience, plan your walk for sunrise when the landscape takes on a serene, magical atmosphere.

Park up tonight in the scenic surrounds of Glentanner Park Centre.

A South Island road trip just wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Lake Tekapo. Take in the picture-perfect landscape of the turquoise lake set against snow-capped mountains. Don’t forget to get some photos of the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd. It’s beautiful at any time of year, but if you visit in November, you'll be rewarded with the stunning sight of vibrant lupin flowers.

For the ultimate views, take the Tekapo Mt John Walkway. This scenic trail offers a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding mountains, lakes, and the Mackenzie Basin flats.

Lake Tekapo is also renowned for Tekapo Springs. Lift your spirits with a relaxing soak in one of the soothing hot pools. Each pool provides a unique view – from the brilliant blue waters of Lake Tekapo to the pine forests and mountain ranges of the surrounding Mackenzie region. Bliss!

Park up in the picturesque grounds of Lakes Edge Holiday Park.

The quaint township of Geraldine is the perfect spot to park up for a night as you near the end of your epic South Island road trip. If you’re keen on a bit of history, plan a visit to the Geraldine Vintage Car & Machinery Museum. You’ll be able to see John Britten’s campervan, a Harley Davidson Herse, and an original Spartan Biplane. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Talbot Forest. 

After dark, visit the Geraldine Observatory and witness the brilliance of the southern night sky. 

In town in late November? Don’t miss the Geraldine Festival. Browse over 100 market stalls, see the art and photography exhibitions, and wander the open gardens. 

Relax for the evening at the Geraldine TOP 10 Holiday Park.

Today, you’ll travel from one characterful township to another as you head to the historic French village of Akaroa. Along the way, plan a lunch stop at the Little River Café and Store. Enjoy a bite to eat then peruse the gallery and craft station next door. Another great stop is Birdlings Flat. This rugged beach is covered in stones including agates, quartz, and volcanic pebbles.

When you arrive in Akaroa, be sure to add a visit to The Giants House to your travel itinerary. This extraordinary attraction, recognised as a Garden of International Significance, will leave you in awe. Designed by artist Josie Martin, the gardens feature incredible oversized mosaic artworks and sculptures that have to be seen to be believed. 

Put your feet up tonight at the Akaroa TOP 10 Holiday Park.

It’s the last day of your 14-day breathtaking South Island road trip! Today, make the most of your final stop in Christchurch before handing over your maui camper at our Christchurch branch, right beside the international airport. 

A great option for seeing as much as possible while you’re here is to board the Christchurch tram. Hear about the intriguing history of the buildings and streets as you go. The tram starts and finishes at Cathedral Junction and you can hop on and off at any stage. Take the opportunity to explore The Arts Centre, take in a spot of shopping on New Regent Street, and enjoy a bite to eat at the Riverside Market. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge at Rollickin Gelato. Their menu is utterly mouthwatering! 

Ready to explore New Zealand’s South Island?

From the breathtaking landscapes of Queenstown to the charming township of Akaroa, this road trip is all about creating unforgettable memories. Wake up to stunning lakes, explore majestic mountains, and indulge in local treats along the way. Immerse yourself in the beauty of New Zealand's pristine beauty and enjoy adrenaline-fuelled fun. With a maui camper, you have the freedom to go wherever the road takes you. Book your campervan online today and create your own incredible journey through the South Island. Pick up your campervan from our Christchurch or Queenstown branches and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!