New Zealand's South Island is a haven for road trip enthusiasts. Diverse landscapes, ranging from snow-capped peaks and deep-blue lakes to lush rainforests and rugged coastlines, make every journey an unforgettable adventure. While the entire island boasts of captivating routes, there are five quintessential road trips that stand out, offering an unrivalled experience of the island's natural grandeur. Embark on a journey through winding alpine highways, scenic coastal roads, and landscapes that have inspired artists and filmmakers alike. Here are the top 5 road trips on New Zealand's South Island that every traveler must experience.
Route: Queenstown to Wanaka via Crown Range Road
Distance: 64.8 kilometers/40.2 miles
Recommended length of time: A couple of hours
Highlights: Crown Range viewpoints, Cardrona Hotel, Bradrona
Crown Range Road, connecting Queenstown to Wanaka, holds the distinction of being New Zealand's highest main road. Renowned for its challenging hairpin turns and twisting bends, it has become something of a rite of passage for many adventurous travelers. While it's a test of driving skills, taking it slow ensures a safe journey.
A must-visit is the Crown Range Lookout, offering a majestic panorama of the mountainous terrain juxtaposed with the serene Kawarau River. A brief hike from the adjacent parking leads to this breathtaking vantage point. As you proceed, the Summit lookout awaits, poised over 1,100 meters high, providing expansive views of the Crown Range valley.
An essential pit stop is the Cardrona Hotel, New Zealand's oldest hotel, revered both for its historical significance and photogenic appeal. Nearby, Bradrona provides an unconventional sightseeing experience with its quirky display of countless bras.
While the drive is brief, typically spanning an hour, the addition of multiple stops can extend the journey. Anticipate heavier traffic during the peak summer season and slippery roads during the colder months. If traveling in winter, it's advisable to equip your vehicle with snow chains.
Route: Te Anau to Milford Sound
Distance: 119 kilometers/74 miles
Recommended length of time: 3 to 4 hours
Highlights: Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, The Chasm, Homer Tunnel
Milford Road is more than just a means to reach the iconic Milford Sound; it's a journey through some of New Zealand's most dramatic landscapes. The route encapsulates the essence of Fiordland National Park, with its looming mountains, dense forests, and pristine lakes.
The Eglinton Valley presents a picturesque expanse of flat grassland encircled by towering mountains. A brief stop at Mirror Lakes will reward travelers with the opportunity to witness the Earl Mountains' reflections in the water. Further along, The Chasm offers a glimpse of the power of nature, with water having sculpted intricate patterns in the rocks. The drive culminates in the Homer Tunnel, a remarkable engineering feat that pierces through the Darran Mountain range.
Travelers should allocate ample time for this journey, not just for the drive but also to truly absorb the region's natural beauty. Given its remote location, services are limited, so it's advisable to come prepared.
Route: Westport to Hokitika
Distance: 137 kilometers/85 miles
Recommended length of time: 2 to 3 hours
Highlights: Pancake Rocks & Blowholes, Truman Track, Hokitika Gorge
The West Coast Drive epitomizes the rugged beauty of New Zealand's western coastline. The Tasman Sea's relentless waves meet dense rainforests, creating a landscape that's both wild and mesmerizing.
Punakaiki's Pancake Rocks & Blowholes offer a geological marvel. Layers of limestone have been eroded over millennia, resulting in pancake-like formations. Nearby, the Truman Track provides a short, immersive walk through native rainforest leading to a secluded beach. Concluding the journey, Hokitika Gorge presents a dazzling turquoise river winding through a dramatic rock gorge.
Given the West Coast's unpredictable weather, it's advisable to check the forecast and be prepared for sudden changes. The drive itself, though relatively short, is packed with scenic viewpoints and nature walks, making it worthwhile to allocate extra time for stops.
Route: Dunedin to Invercargill via the Catlins
Distance: 279 kilometers/173 miles
Recommended length of time: 2 days
Highlights: Nugget Point Lighthouse, Purakaunui Falls, Curio Bay
The Southern Scenic Route is an idyllic journey that embraces the southern edge of New Zealand's South Island. As you meander through dense rainforests, serene bays, and cascading waterfalls, you're treated to a montage of landscapes that embody the region's untouched beauty.
One of the most iconic landmarks along the way is the Nugget Point Lighthouse, perched high on a cliff, overlooking rocky islets that appear like "nuggets" amidst the sea. Not far from here, the Purakaunui Falls cascade gracefully over three tiers, offering a tranquil setting for reflection. Further south, Curio Bay awaits, home to a 180-million-year-old petrified forest and, during the right season, a popular spot to observe Yellow-eyed penguins in their natural habitat.
To truly embrace the essence of this route, travelers are encouraged to spend a night in the Catlins. This offers an opportunity to immerse in the region's tranquility and perhaps catch a glimpse of the Aurora Australis if the conditions are right.
Route: Christchurch to Greymouth
Distance: 241 kilometers/150 miles
Recommended length of time: 3 to 4 hours
Highlights: Arthur's Pass National Park, Devil's Punchbowl Waterfall, Otira Viaduct
The Great Alpine Highway, meandering through the heart of the Southern Alps, offers a journey of contrast. Starting from the urban landscape of Christchurch, the route quickly delves into the alpine wilderness, culminating in the coastal town of Greymouth.
Arthur's Pass National Park is the crown jewel of this drive. Majestic peaks, deep gorges, and expansive beech forests define its topography. A short, invigorating walk from the village leads to the Devil's Punchbowl Waterfall, a powerful 131-meter cascade that's a testament to the region's raw beauty. As you navigate the highway, the Otira Viaduct stands as a testament to modern engineering, snaking through a steep gorge and offering panoramic mountain views.
While the drive can technically be completed in a handful of hours, it's worth dedicating extra time. The changing landscapes, coupled with numerous hiking trails and viewpoints, make the Great Alpine Highway a captivating journey that beckons to be savored.
