14-Day South Island Self-Drive Adventure

Pick up campervan rental and begin journey south.

Brilliant blue lake with Mount Cook views.

Hot pools overlooking Lake Tekapo, perfect after travel day.

World-class stargazing site, book night tour in advance.

Glacier-fed lake with icebergs, boat tours available.

Shorter 2-hour walk with close-up Mount Cook views.

Elevated viewpoint over Lake Pukaki and Mackenzie Basin.

Another lakeside salmon spot with outdoor seating.

Evening stroll along the shore with sunset views.

Iconic lone willow tree in lake, most photographed in NZ.

Easy lakeside walk with mountain views, 1 hour loop.

Mind-bending illusions and famous giant maze.

Highest sealed road in NZ with sweeping valley views.

Restored 1860s gold mining village near Arrowtown.

Adventure capital on Lake Wakatipu with dramatic mountain backdrop.

Sunset ride up Bob's Peak for panoramic views.

Less crowded, larger fjord with pristine wilderness.

Casual dining at Milford Sound with scenic views.

Gateway town to Fiordland, campervan parking overnight.

Dramatic rock formations carved by water, short walk.

Relaxing boat tour of New Zealand's second largest lake.

Accessible limestone caves near Te Anau township.

Peaceful bay 10 minutes from town, perfect for swimming and picnics.

Tip Relaxed afternoon stroll. The Wanaka Tree is at the end near the parking area. Best photos at sunset.

Modern NZ cuisine with shared plates and craft cocktails.

Tip Upscale dining experience. Reservations recommended. Try their tasting menu if available.

Wine region with cellar doors and vineyard tastings, 20 min from Queenstown.

Tip Explore Buckingham Street's heritage buildings and the Chinese settlement. Great for a morning stroll.

Private cedar hot tubs overlooking Shotover Canyon with mountain views.

Tip Book online in advance. Each private tub seats 2-4 people. Sunset slots are most popular. 10-minute drive from town center.

Vintage steamship cruise across Lake Wakatipu with engine room tours.

Tip Book the morning cruise. Can combine with Walter Peak farm visit (add 2 hours). Engine room is fascinating.

Relaxed cafe with burgers, salads, and brunch options near the lake.

Tip Expect 20-30 minute wait. Order at the counter, then explore nearby shops. The Fergburger and Little Lamby are classics.

Easy 1-hour lakeside walk through beech forest to a secluded bay.

Tip Drive 20 minutes north on Glenorchy Road. Multiple pull-off points for photos. Best light in afternoon.

Easy flat loop walk around a scenic lake, 15 minutes from Queenstown.

Tip 45-minute scenic drive from Queenstown. Walk to Glenorchy Lagoon boardwalk for mountain reflections. Many LOTR filming locations nearby.

Classic Kiwi country cafe with pies, sandwiches, and local charm.

Tip 45-minute drive south from Queenstown. Trains run on select days, check schedule. Short scenic ride, great for photos.

Te Anau steakhouse with venison, lamb, and hearty country meals.

Tip Casual atmosphere. Generous portions. Good stop after arriving in Te Anau (2 hour drive from Kingston).

Scenic glacial valley with meadows and dramatic peaks.

Tip Early morning for best reflections. 1 hour into the Milford Road from Te Anau. Short boardwalk.

Scenic spot along the Eglinton River for a break and photos.

Tip On the drive back to Te Anau. Peaceful walk, listen for native birds like fantails and robins.

Hand-carved 1.2km tunnel through solid rock connecting valleys.

Tip Traffic lights control one-way flow. May wait 10-15 minutes. Watch for kea parrots in the parking area before the tunnel.

Dramatic cliff face viewpoint near the Nevis bungy site.

Tip Quick photo stop on State Highway 6. Historic engineering feat from the 1800s.

Boutique winery with cellar door tastings and bistro.

Tip Try the cheese platter with local wines. Shop sells cheese, preserves, and gifts. 20 min from Queenstown.

Artisan chocolate shop with handmade treats and hot chocolate.

Tip Only operates Saturday mornings. Good for last-minute souvenirs. Fresh produce and artisan goods.

Drop off campervan at rental depot and head to airport.

Tip Allow 1 hour for campervan return and inspection. Queenstown Airport is 10 minutes from town. Return with a full tank of gas and empty waste tanks.