Seven Dreamy Days

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The Journey

Jan and John take on the South Island

Travelling by campervan for the first time, Jan and John spent seven dreamy days exploring the South Island in their maui campervan. They had the time of their life, and were excited to share their trip with us upon their return. Like so many others, they wondered why they hadn't taken the leap sooner and quickly saw there was nothing to fear about travelling the open road by campervan!

Travel

4-7 days


Route

Christchurch to Christchurch

1325km


Best Time of the Year

any time of the year

Highlights

Unbound by a schedule, we were able to take our time sightseeing.

We couldn't say exactly how long it took us to travel the distances between each location each day.

The Journey

Days

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Day 1
Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

Distance 243km - Driving Time 3 hours

We picked up our Campervan at around 10.30am from Maui, and began our journey to Lake Tekapo. We had a lunch stop in Geraldine and then travelled through the Tekapo Basin, catching a glimpse of Mount Cook in the distance. We spent time exploring the town of Tekapo, and a delightful visit to the famous and picturesque Old Church on the banks of Lake Tekapo. 

We had a great spot at the Holiday Camp and watched the sunset from the comfort of our outdoor furniture which was included in our van package. We also visited the Mt John Observatory and witnessed fantastic views of the whole Tekapo Basin.

Day 2
Lake Tekapo to Wanaka

Distance 202km - Driving Time 2.5 hours

We drove through to Wanaka today, and had a wonderful trip to Mou Wahu Island (bird Sanctuary) with Eco Tours, where we had a fantastic time with Chris our tour guide. He really knew his stuff and made the morning very special for us.

The rest of the day was spent exploring Wanaka and all it had to offer.

Day 3
Wanaka to Cromwell

Distance 60km - Driving Time 45 min

We left Wanaka and followed the Cluther River to Carrick Wines, near Cromwell. The hosts here were fantastic.

We enjoyed a stroll through the vineyard, learned about its history while sampling some of their award winning wines. They supplied a fantastic food basket for us to cook in our campervan. The basket included their award winning pinot alongside locally produced bread, olives, salmon, and salads alongside a divine chocolate and strawberry tart for desert. We would highly recommned this to anyone!

Day 4
Cromwell to Queenstown

Distance 60km - Driving Time 1 hour

We travelled the short distance to Queenstown, where we stayed at a rather quirky Holiday Park which was centrally located.

We walked into the town centre and spent a delilghtful few hours exploring and sightseeing.

The next day we did the Earnslaw trip to Glenorchy Station. It was really worth it.

Day 5
Queenstown to Dunedin

Distance 285km - Driving Time 3 hours 40 min

A long trip with plenty to see on the way. 

A highlight was the Yellow Eyed Penguins and the time spent at Larnach Castle.

Day 6
Dunedin to Akaroa

Distance 410km - Driving Time 5 hours

This was a great day. We spent time wandering among the Moeraki Boulders

We took a detour into the old historic part of Oamaru. It was quite magical and well worth a visit.

Day 7
Akaroa to Christchurch

Distance 81km - Driving Time 1.5 hours

A fantastic road trip, the scenery was magical.

We went out on cruise to see if we could catch a glimpse of Dolphins and we were very fortunate to see them and their babies frolicking around, . Another wonderful highlight.