Epic Christchurch to Nelson road trip itinerary

It’s day one and the first order of the day is to pick up your maui campervan hire from our conveniently located branch in Christchurch. 

While in Christchurch, take a moment to explore the vibrant mix of history, culture, and natural beauty this city has to offer. Whether you're taking a punt along the Avon River, discovering Māori heritage at the Canterbury Museum, or experiencing the dynamic food and coffee scene, Christchurch won't disappoint. 

As the day winds down, park up your camper at the North South Holiday Park. This campsite is the perfect base for your first night with everything needed for a comfortable stay. 

The journey from Christchurch to Kaikōura is simply stunning. The coastal road unfurls alongside the mighty Kaikōura ranges, offering a dramatic panorama where majestic mountains meet the sea. Prepare to take it slow and make a few stops along the way to take in the gorgeous South Island vistas. 

Kaikōura is a world-renowned destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Here, you can embark on whale-watching tours or encounter dolphins, seals, and seabirds. If you're feeling adventurous, try swimming with dolphins or enjoy a kayak tour. Cap off your day with the local delicacy, crayfish, at the historic Pier Hotel or the roadside Kaikoura Seafood BBQ.

Your rest stop for the night is the Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park. This fantastic campground offers well-equipped, powered sites for your campervan, as well as laundry facilities, free WiFi, and a children's playground. As night falls, enjoy the coastal ambience, the sound of waves, and starlit skies. It's a perfect ending to a fulfilling day of exploration.

Today, you’ll be taking the scenic road trip from the cool coastline of Kaikōura to the sun-soaked, vineyard-dotted landscapes of the Marlborough region. 

Blenheim is the heart of the renowned Marlborough wine region, home to around 35 cellar doors. Take your time savouring the flavours of world-class wines and relax in beautiful vineyard settings. Many offer restaurants and picnic spots, inviting you to laze away your afternoon. 

For a change of scene, don't miss the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, a treasure trove of First World War aircraft displays and a must-see for history enthusiasts.

At the end of the day, retreat to the Spring Creek Holiday Park. This well-equipped campsite offers powered sites, a communal kitchen and barbecue area, swimming pool, and playground. Nestled amid lush greenery, it's the perfect spot to unwind during your New Zealand road trip.  

Today, your South Island road trip takes to you New Zealand’s sunshine capital, Nelson. Along the way, you'll pass through the coastal township of Havelock – the perfect spot for a lunch break. We suggest grabbing a table at the Mussel Pot where you can enjoy some of the delicious local seafood.  

As you arrive in Nelson, you'll find an active art scene, boutique shopping, and an eclectic selection of craft galleries. Visit Founders Heritage Park to learn more about Nelson’s history and enjoy a stroll around the gardens. If you're a craft beer aficionado, Nelson's local breweries will undoubtedly be a highlight of your day.

Another of the great things to do in Nelson is a visit to the Nelson Classic Car Museum. Check out 150 iconic cars that span more than 100 years of motoring history. 

Your home for the night is the Nelson City TOP 10 Holiday Park. This well-appointed park is within easy walking distance of shops and supermarkets. It’s also nice and handy to Tahunanui Beach where you can enjoy an evening stroll under the stars.

The scenic road trip from Nelson to Motueka is lined with an eclectic mix of wineries, art galleries, and charming fruit stalls. The drive is short yet breathtaking, offering glimpses of the region's countryside charm and vibrant artistic culture. If you're an art lover, don't miss the opportunity to stop at Höglund Art Glass, a standout attraction featuring masterful glass artworks. And for a refreshing stop that also offers some fascinating history, call into New Zealand’s oldest pub, The Moutere Inn. 

Motueka, which neighbours the Abel Tasman National Park, is a haven for nature and adventure lovers. Explore the Great Taste Trail by bike, or stroll along the pleasant high street and coastal walkway. 

After a day of discovery, unwind at the Motueka TOP 10 Holiday Park. The park offers excellent facilities including a heated swimming pool, spa, barbecue area, and bike hire. Its location near the beach and the town centre makes it an ideal spot for your overnight stay.

Day six delivers on yet another captivating leg of your journey as you drive from Motueka to Nelson Lakes. The scenic drive through the Motueka Valley Highway unwinds through picturesque rural landscapes, fringed with rolling hills and dense forests. As you approach St Arnaud, a quiet alpine village on the edge of Nelson Lakes National Park, you'll be met with stunning views of the Southern Alps.

The Nelson Lakes National Park is renowned for its glacier-formed lakes, Rotoiti and Rotoroa, surrounded by majestic peaks and dense beech forests. This dramatic yet serene setting calls for exploration. Consider the Mt Robert Circuit for an unforgettable day-hike, or indulge in relaxing nature walks along the lakes' fringes.

Rest for the night at the tranquil Kerr Bay Campsite. Overlooking the lake, this campground offers powered sites, hot showers, and laundry facilities. As you settle in, enjoy the peaceful ambience of this pristine environment, punctuating yet another eventful day of your South Island adventure.

It’s day seven of your epic New Zealand campervan holiday, and today you’ll be heading to Hanmer Springs. The road trip to this resort-style alpine village is yet another feast for the eyes. As you drive westward along SH 63, the route unfolds with vistas of the picturesque Southern Alps, abundant forest reserves, and quaint countryside settlements. Your path eventually merges with SH 7, guiding you through the splendour of the Lewis Pass before reaching Hanmer Springs.

Hanmer Springs is a paradise for pleasure-seekers, with activities catering to every age and stage. The renowned Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa offers an inviting retreat with open-air pools, fun slides, and luxurious day spa facilities. 

If adventure beckons, you can engage in exhilarating activities like horse trekking, mountain biking, jet boating, and bungy jumping. Or, for a calmer exploration, hike to the Conical Hill Lookout for panoramic views of the leafy town and sprawling countryside.

Rest at the end of the day at the Hanmer Springs TOP 10 Holiday Park. This beautiful holiday park is just five minutes from the town centre and has everything needed for a relaxing stay. We suggest picking up some supplies from the local supermarket and using the park’s pizza oven to make a delicious dinner. Afterwards, pour a glass of bubbles and soak away the evening in one of the wood-fired hot tubs. Bliss!

The final stretch of your incredible New Zealand journey will take you from Hanmer Springs back to Christchurch. Along the way, the landscape gradually transforms from sweeping farmland vistas to lush vineyards. This is your last chance to savour your epic South Island road trip, so consider a halfway stop for lunch at the Waipara Springs Winery and Restaurant.

Before returning your maui camper, tick off a few more of the great things to do in Christchurch. From the beautiful Botanic Gardens to the International Antarctic Centre, there's no shortage of places to see and experiences to enjoy.

The end of your journey brings you back to maui’s Christchurch branch, where you can conveniently drop off your campervan hire. This epic journey may have come to an end, but the memories will undoubtedly last a lifetime.

Ready to explore New Zealand’s South Island?

Stunning scenery, unforgettable experiences, and fantastic food and wine… what more could you ask for? This epic South Island road trip truly offers it all. And there’s no better way to enjoy it than with the comfort and convenience of a maui campervan hire. 

If you’re ready to discover this incredible part of New Zealand, take the first step and book your Maui campervan today. With branches in Auckland, Queenstown, and Christchurch you can even pick up your campervan at one branch and drop it off at another.