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New Zealand’s South Island harbours some of the world’s most spectacular road trip routes. Dramatic mountain ranges give way to golden beaches, ancient forests conceal underground cave systems and world-class wineries nestle between rugged coastlines and pristine alpine lakes. We’ve plotted the ultimate trips – whether you’re travelling with family, chasing romance, craving fine wine and food, seeking adventure in the wild or simply longing to unwind.
For families
From Christchurch, head north to Kaikōura, where sperm whales breach metres from the shore. The town’s deep offshore continental shelf attracts these giants year-round, alongside dusky dolphins that steal the show during boat tours. At the Kaikōura Museum, kids can explore interactive exhibits that reveal why this coastline hosts more whale species than anywhere else in New Zealand.
Wind inland through Marlborough’s sunny wine region. Here, family-owned vineyards welcome children with grape juice while parents sample award-winning Sauvignon Blanc. Head west to Nelson, the gateway to Abel Tasman National Park, where one of New Zealand’s most accessible Great Walks awaits. Open year-round, the trail offers golden beaches, lush native bush and the sound of birdsong at every turn.
The West Coast leg unfolds through Westport and Punakaiki, where the famous Pancake Rocks shoot water skywards. It’s also home to the Paparoa Experience, a multi-sensory, hands-on exhibition on the history of Paparoa National Park. Hokitika’s jade workshops let little hands craft their own treasures, and Lake Brunner’s calm waters provide the perfect spot for skimming stones. The journey wraps up at Hanmer Springs, where thermal pools, Aotearoa (New Zealand’s) largest aquatic thrill ride and mountain views await.
Itinerary: Christchurch – Kaikōura – Marlborough – Nelson – Westport – Punakaiki – Hokitika – Lake Brunner – Hanmer Springs – Christchurch.
Recommended duration: Seven days
For food and wine lovers
Begin in North Canterbury’s Waipara Valley, where limestone-rich soils and sheltered valleys create perfect growing conditions for Pinot Noir and Riesling. Family-run cellars like Pegasus Bay offer tastings that reveal how terroir shapes every sip, and roadside farms sell organic Manuka honey and stone fruit straight from the orchard.
In Kaikōura, sustainable seafood takes the spotlight – local boats deliver fresh crayfish straight to harbourside grills, and whale-watching tours culminate in tastings of locally-caught blue cod prepared with native kawakawa and horopito herbs. Iconic estates like Cloudy Bay pioneer the region’s signature Sauvignon Blancs, while boutique producers like Allan Scott push boundaries with organic viticulture and experimental blends.
A trip to the lively Saturday farmer’s market in Nelson is a must: local producers sell everything from truffle oils to venison salami, encapsulating the region’s commitment to sustainable, flavour-led food. Head to historic Reefton, where the acclaimed Reefton Distilling Co transforms pure alpine water and locally-grown barley into award-winning single malt whisky and gin. Be sure to join a master distiller for an exclusive tasting experience.
Itinerary: Christchurch – North Canterbury Wine Region (Waipara Valley) – Kaikōura – Reefton – Nelson.
Recommended duration: Five days
For outdoor enthusiasts
Start in tranquil Lake Brunner, where mirror-calm waters reflect surrounding peaks and hidden walking tracks show remnants of 19th-century gold mining settlements. Nearby Punakaki offers more than just the Pancake Rocks; the Pororari River Track winds through ancient subtropical rainforest and past 40-million-year-old fossil formations.
Next stop: Abel Tasman National Park. Weaving through secluded beaches, the 60-kilometre Coast Track is just the beginning: take in the park’s natural splendour by cruise, kayak, helicopter or catamaran. Nearby Richmond Forest Park in Blenheim tests expert hikers with thrilling multi-day alpine treks between backcountry huts.
The journey ends on a high in Kaikōura and Hanmer Springs. Hike the Peninsula Walkway, a challenging coastal trek where fur seals bask beneath towering cliffs. The walkway’s highlight involves traversing ancient Māori pa sites (historic fortified settlements) while scanning the water for whales and rare Hector’s dolphins. Afterwards, thrill-seekers can take to the water with jet boating and rafting adventures.
Itinerary: Christchurch – Lake Brunner – Punakaiki – Abel Tasman National Park – Richmond Forest Park – Peninsula Walkway – Hanmer Springs – Christchurch.
Recommended duration: Eight days
For rest and relaxation
This itinerary is designed for maximum relaxation, starting with cultural immersion in Wellington before crossing the Cook Strait. In Queen Charlotte Sounds, calm glacial waterways and forested ridges set a serene tone. Luxury lodges like Mahana Lodge, accessible only by boat, provide exclusive private beaches and complete seclusion, where the only sounds are lapping waves. Gentle hikes along the Queen Charlotte Track evoke a slower, more mindful pace.
In Nelson, art and nature seamlessly merge as local galleries showcase work inspired by the area’s extraordinary light quality, while the scenic Great Taste Trail winds along the coastline and countryside. Punakaki’s thundering blowholes provide natural sound therapy, balanced by Hokitika’s calming jade-carving workshops that connect travellers to Māori tradition and meditative practice.
The final leg winds through Cheviot’s rolling farmland and Kaikōura’s mystical waters, where whales surface in contemplative silence. The journey ends with leisurely tastings in Marlborough’s world-renowned vineyards, a fitting finale that celebrates the South Island’s harmony between land and sea.
Itinerary: Wellington – Queen Charlotte Sounds – Nelson – Punakaiki – Hokitika – Cheviot – Kaikōura – Marlborough.
Recommended duration: 12 days
For romance
Hanmer Springs opens the journey with private thermal pools under starry skies and boutique stays in heritage buildings. Continue to Kaikōura for sunset whale-watching charters, an unforgettable shared experience as sperm whales breach against glowing horizons.
Blenheim and the Marlborough Sounds provide intimate cellar door experiences, including private tastings in underground caves followed by gourmet picnics amongst vineyard rows. Here, couples-only lodges and private kayak trips offer true privacy; meanwhile, personal chefs craft seven-course dinners featuring local fare. Abel Tasman National Park’s golden beaches become your private stage for barefoot anniversary celebrations, surprise proposals or hand-in-hand strolls.
The journey winds to a close amid the West Coast’s wild beauty. Punakaiki’s dramatic cliffs lead to Reefton’s cosy historic inns, featuring whisky tastings beside crackling fires. Maruia Hot Springs‘ riverside thermal pools provide the perfect romantic finale, surrounded by native forest where couples can disconnect from the world whilst connecting with each other.
Itinerary: Hanmer Springs – Kaikōura – Blenheim – Marlborough Sounds – Abel Tasman National Park – Punakaiki – Reefton – Maruia Springs.
Recommended duration: Seven days
