That is half one in all a two-part New Zealand itinerary protecting each the North and South Islands. Learn half 2 (5 days North Island New Zealand Itinerary)
Snowcapped mountains, and countless roads flanked by rolling inexperienced hills are simply a few of my favorite issues a few highway journey on the South Island.
To not overlook, New Zealand can also be the most effective locations to verify off bucket checklist experiences. Think about: bungy leaping over a bridge, heli-hiking alongside glaciers or leaping out of a airplane at 10,000ft excessive. Whereas your mind is scrambling to course of the drop-dead beautiful views, you’ll have one of the best images and movies to return dwelling with.
Hitting as many hikes and scenic drives as we may, right here’s our South Island route. For the North Island, take a look at our 5-day North Island New Zealand itinerary exploring glow worm caves and geothermal terrains.
Learn extra: 2 Weeks New Zealand Itinerary Underneath S$2,500 — North & South Island Journey Planning Information
Pre-Journey Necessities
– Pre-departure Supervised ART check — taken not more than 24 hours earlier than departure (Pre-departure PCR check is accepted too)
– On arrival self ART on day 0/1 and on day 5/6 — COVID Antigen Check kits given out on the airport
– New Zealand Digital Journey Authority (NZeTA) — utilized not less than 72 hours earlier than departure
Staying Related: Pre-book an area SIM card and accumulate it at Queenstown Worldwide Airport upon arrival.
Automotive rental: Pre-book through Klook
South Island New Zealand Itinerary Route
Most South Island New Zealand itineraries start from Christchurch however we flew into Queenstown for 3 causes: (1) Flights from Singapore to Queenstown (stopover in Sydney or Melbourne) have been less expensive (2) Queenstown is the hub for all of the adrenaline experiences that New Zealand is known for (3) From Tekapo, we saved an hour driving straight to Fortress Hill as a substitute of constructing a cease at Christchurch.
This circuit route covers well-known vacationer stops like Milford Sound, Mount Prepare dinner and the Franz Joseph/Fox Glacier townships.
However as a result of we’re such suckers for excellent views, we designed this path to cowl scenic hikes like Lake Marian (on the best way to Milford Sound), Hooker Valley (Mount Prepare dinner), Cave Stream (Fortress Hill), Lake Metheson (Fox Glacier) and even a glacier hike that’s solely accessible by a helicopter!
New Zealand Itinerary Price range Breakdown
Lodging: S$457.66
Transport: S$372.01
Actions: S$1,088.99
Miscellaneous: S$253.62
TOTAL: S$2,172.29 (excl. flights)
(detailed New Zealand Itinerary breakdown for one pax right here)
Day 1-2: Queenstown
Surrounded by dramatic landscapes, Queenstown is THE journey capital of New Zealand. Keep not less than two nights and even 4 to get your fill of adrenaline, drool-inducing burgers and beautiful views from nearly any nook. It’s additionally a fantastic base for day journeys to Cardrona (for snowboarding in winter), Glenorchy (beautiful panorama featured on LOTR), and Milford Sound (though we suggest spending an evening right here).
Transport in Queenstown: All the things you want is inside strolling distance so there’s no want for a automobile on the nights you’ll be staying in Queenstown. From the airport, ebook the Tremendous Shuttle which can carry you to the doorstep of your lodging in Queenstown CBD for lower than NZ$10/pax.
Bungy, Canyon Swing, Catapult or All?!
There are three bungy soar zones in Queenstown: Kawarau Bridge (the primary bungy soar on this planet), The Ledge (in all probability probably the most scenic due to the view of Queenstown within the background — briefly closed!) and Nevis Bungy (the very best one in New Zealand at 134m over the Nevis River)! So it actually relies on whether or not you’re keen on the traditional, views or thrills.
Replace (6 Could 2022): The Ledge bungy soar remains to be briefly closed.
If you happen to’re headed for the Nevis Bungy, there’s additionally the Nevis Swing and the Nevis Catapult (latest to the AJ Hackett fam) in the identical space. The Nevis River is beautiful and the most effective methods to expertise that is maybe swinging the other way up or getting shot throughout the canyon at over 100kph.
Onsen Scorching Swimming pools
Picture credit score: Onsen
Overlooking New Zealand’s signature alpine surroundings, the Queenstown Onsen Scorching Swimming pools is ideal for calming your nerves amidst scenic views. Every of the 14 cedar-lined sizzling swimming pools is heated to round 38.5°C and refreshed each day with pure water from the encircling mountains.
Price: ~S$78 (incl. complimentary drink and snack)
Opening Hours: 9AM – 10PM
Handle: 160 Arthurs Level Street, Arthurs Level, Queenstown, New Zealand
Fergburger, Fergbaker & Mrs Ferg
Each burger we had right here was epic. It’s not laborious to know why they’ve earned the status of serving one of the best burgers in New Zealand (and a few declare, the world!). We’re speaking completely grilled patties, beneficiant layers of cheese, the freshest greens and aromatic toasted buns. There are even two vegetarian burgers on the menu. ‘Nuff stated, everybody, simply attempt Fergburger for your self.
For breakfast, Fergbaker (proper subsequent to Fergburger) bakes some imply bread and pastries. They’re well-known for his or her meat pies however my private favorite is the Pesto Tomato Focaccia (NZ$3.90, is available in a large model too at NZ$5.90) which nearly despatched us to bread heaven.
And if you happen to thought that was over, there’s additionally gelato subsequent door at Mrs Ferg — Hokey Pokey was a unanimous favorite.
*Professional-tip: Save your receipt from Fergburger for a ten% low cost at Mrs Ferg.
Price: Burgers from NZ$12.50
Opening Hours: 8AM – 5AM (Nice for supper!)
Handle: 42 Shotover St, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Finest View Of Queenstown
For one of the best vantage level of Queenstown, take a 40-minute hike to Bobs Peak or take a scenic gondola journey to Skyline Queenstown (NZ$64 with 2 luge rides). Head up early and have a go on the luge rides (closes at 5PM).
There are two lanes — scenic and superior — however the latter is just for repeat riders so that you’ll must get a bundle with multiple Luge journey to aim it.
If you happen to’re planning to splurge on a meal this journey, the dinner on the Stratosfare Skyline Restaurant (NZ$85) is it. Not solely do you get a stunning view, the unfold consists of recent seafood (together with sashimi) and a great mixture of Kiwi and worldwide favourites. Loads of vegetarian choices too.
*Professional-tip: Guide the Gondola + Lunch/Dinner + Luge rides bundle collectively for bundled financial savings.
Lodging in Queenstown: Melbourne Lodge — From S$61.82/night time in a 4-star mattress and breakfast. The situation is nice — solely a fifteen-minute stroll to Lake Wakatipu and Skyline Gondola. We then took an Uber again to Queenstown Airport to gather our rental automobile.
Day 3: Queenstown – Milford Sound
After an early morning skydiving session (~S$266), we took an Uber again to Queenstown Airport to gather our rental automobile and headed for Milford Sound. From Queenstown, it’s a four-hour drive (Google Maps says three however belief us, it’s nearer to 4) to Milford Sound. If you happen to’re a passenger, you may need to keep awake as a result of the view on this drive is spectacular.
Te Anau
That is the final city earlier than Milford Sound so replenish on groceries and petrol. That is additionally in all probability the final level earlier than your Instagram tales cease importing. Replace the world about your short-term disappearance earlier than leaving Te Anau.
After Te Anau, look out for scenic stops at Mirror Lake, Knobs Flat and Monkey Creek.
Lake Marian Hike
Lake Marian is an alpine lake with a transparent reflection of the encircling mountains. For a three-hour spherical journey hike, the views have been positively value it.
The primary 10 minutes of the trail as much as the waterfall entails a swing bridge and a sturdy picket walkway (additionally wheelchair accessible). Past that, the ascent is steep and on an uneven rocky path which may get fairly slippery when it rains. Plan for ample daylight and comply with the orange arrows, particularly on the return — we ended up going the fallacious method because the observe has a few splits when heading again to the carpark.
If the climate on today isn’t ideally suited (the view will in all probability be coated by fog or the reflection shall be disturbed by rain), head to Milford Sound early and save this hike for day 4 as a substitute.
Hike Time: 3-hour roundtrip (however allocate 4 because the fog may take some time to clear up)
Parking: From Te Anau, look out for the Marian Nook Activate the appropriate to get on the Hollyford Observe. From Milford Sound, the signal is much more apparent.
Lodging: Milford Sound Lodge — NZ$40/pax in a six-bed dorm. The bogs and customary space are separate from the backpackers’ dorms so carry alongside a raincoat in case it rains (which apparently does 200 days a yr round right here).
Day 4: Milford Sound – Queenstown
Rise up early and discover the world across the pier. Take the straightforward 400m loop on the Milford Foreshore Stroll for views of Mitre Peak.
Milford Sound Scenic Cruise
The Milford Sound Scenic Cruise might be the primary motive why individuals journey on eight-hour return journeys from Queenstown to get right here — it’s arguably probably the most stunning place on earth! It’s fairly touristy however for good motive.
The 2-and-a-half-hour scenic cruise explores the 16km lengthy fjord flanked by sheer rock faces and waterfalls. It rains a lot of the yr, so lots of the waterfalls seem and disappear every single day. Three everlasting residents to look out for: Bowen Falls (seen from the pier), Fairy Falls and Stirling Falls (the well-known fall the place boats take turns to stand up shut).
Price: From S$66.85 (varies relying on departure time)
Assembly Level: Milford Sound Customer Centre (Free parking is accessible a 10-min stroll away)
Lodging: The Flaming Kiwi Backpacker — NZ$62.35/night time in a Price range Twin. A strolling distance to sights round city, it’s a easy room with free wifi, free parking and a stunning view of the city.
Day 5: Queenstown – Aoraki Mount Prepare dinner
The drive between Queenstown as much as Aoraki Mount Prepare dinner was one in all my favourites in your complete South Island of New Zealand! The three-and-a-half-hour drive passes rapidly with many scenic roads like Lindis Go and Mount Prepare dinner Street which rides on the sting of Lake Pukaki.
Lindis Go
This isn’t precisely a cease however the roads are so stunning I assumed it deserved a header of its personal.
*Professional-tip: Alongside the best way, you’ll drive by a small city named Twizel — if you happen to’re operating low on petrol or groceries, replenish right here earlier than driving down Mount Prepare dinner Street in the direction of Mount Prepare dinner.
Lake Pukaki
Lake Pukaki has two nice lookout factors. The primary is a slight detour, nevertheless it’s the place you’ll discover a small salmon retailer on the southern fringe of Lake Pukaki — Mount Prepare dinner Alpine Salmon. They promote the freshest catch of the day at cheap costs, however in fact the sashimi is what most individuals come for.
There was a one-for-one sale once we have been there (however we heard they’re at all times promoting at one-for-one) so 500g+500g of sashimi solely value NZ$38! It even comes with Japanese soy sauce and wasabi so you may take pleasure in them on the tables beside the lake. If the climate’s unhealthy, you may request for an ice pack and revel in it again at your lodging.
A 12-minute drive alongside the lake is Peter’s Lookout which is definitely the extra scenic of the 2. Right here you’ll have the proper view of the windy roads main proper as much as Mount Prepare dinner with the glistening blue lake of Lake Pukaki.
Tasman Glacier Hike
After being on the highway for 3 and a half hours, the Tasman Glacier Observe is a straightforward and comparatively quick hike you may squeeze in earlier than the solar units.
There are three quick routes right here you may cowl beneath an hour however if you happen to’re quick on time, head straight for the Tasman Glacier View Level. It’s solely a 15-minute hike as much as the highest and also you’ll have a transparent view of the Tasman Glacier Lake, the Blue Swimming pools (now inexperienced) and the encircling mountains.
Hike Time: 30mins – 1hr relying on the observe
Parking: Free parking accessible on the finish of Tasman Valley Street
Picture credit score: Klook
Lodging: Aoraki Mount Prepare dinner Alpine Lodge — S$167.53/pax for a double/ twin room. The view round right here is AMAZING! The rooms are homely, with a fire to maintain you heat and cosy at night time.
Day 6: Mount Prepare dinner – Fortress Hill
Exiting Mount Prepare dinner highway, you’ll in all probability take a pair extra stops to admire the distinctive grey-blue waters of Lake Pukaki earlier than heading north in the direction of Fortress Hill. The final grocery store and main petrol kiosk (Mobil) is at Methven — an hour and a half earlier than Fortress Hill. However we suggest getting all the pieces stocked up in Tekapo earlier than the three-hour drive to Fortress Hill.
Hooker Valley Observe
Hooker Valley Observe is the preferred observe within the space round Mount Prepare dinner, because of the spectacular views all through the observe! It’s fairly a protracted and open observe however with little or no incline, and flat gravel paths or paved boardwalks. It’s one of many best tracks with snowcapped mountains round you. The solar might be harsh although, so carry alongside sunblock!
Hike Time: 4 – 6 hours spherical journey (10km)
Parking: Loads of free parking accessible on the finish of Hooker Valley Street
Lodging: Porters Lodge (Fortress Hill) — NZ$119/2 pax for a personal room for 4-6pax (further friends pay NZ$35/pax). Getting there requires a little bit of a drive on gravel roads that wind up the perimeters of a mountain. Attempt to arrive earlier than it will get too darkish. There isn’t a shared kitchen so that you’ll must order from the in-house cafe or have dinner earlier than arriving. The generator can also be turned off at night time so arrive earlier than 8PM if you happen to’re planning to have a sizzling bathe. Bonus if you happen to love canines — there are three of them, all named after characters from the Wizard of Oz!
Day 7: Fortress Hill – Arthurs Go – Hokitika
The drive between Fortress Hill and Hokitika passes by means of many stunning tramping tracks and accessible lookout factors. Choose just a few and benefit from the scenic drive from the east to west finish of the South Island, earlier than arriving on the beachfront city of Hokitika.
Kura Tāwhiti
Kura Tāwhiti was once beneath the ocean till it retracted, abandoning these attention-grabbing limestones scattered throughout the hilly space. The identify additionally interprets to Fortress Hill as a result of some say they resemble the ruins of a citadel. Immediately, it’s principally fashionable amongst rock climbers.
You’ll be able to even hire boulder pads and sneakers from Springfield (~30-minute drive from Kura Tāwhiti). However even for non-climbers, you may stroll by means of the 1.4km entry observe.
Cave Stream Scenic Reserve
There are two entrances to the 594m cave the place you may discover by means of knee-deep waters from one finish to a different. If you happen to’re going by means of the cave, enter from the downstream entrance and stroll in opposition to the circulation of the river. If you happen to’re not planning to get too moist, it’s additionally value taking the quick 15-minute stroll all the way down to the doorway of the cave.
Hike Time: quarter-hour to the downstream cave entrance, 1 hour spherical journey from the carpark to the opposite cave entrance
Parking: The parking space is sort of small however must be ample as there aren’t many individuals visiting.
Devils Punchbowl Waterfall
There are a lot of hikes between Fortress Hill and Arthurs Go however the preferred might be the Devils Punchbowl Waterfall. It’s not too far (2km) from the carpark and includes a 131m waterfall (finest seen when the climate is evident and sunny).
Hike Time: 1 hour spherical journey
Parking: Loads of free parking accessible on the carpark on Punchbowl highway
Lodging: 252 Beachside Motels & Vacation Park — S$61.10/night time for the standard cabin. A clear and easy room with a primary location by the seashore, extraordinarily worth for cash!
Day 8: Hokitika – Franz Joseph/Fox Glacier
Franz Joseph and Fox Glacier are small townships so replenish on petrol and groceries on the New World Grocery store in Hokitika.
Hokitika Gorge
This vivd turquoise blue gorge is a must-see whenever you’re in Hokitika. But when it has been raining, it’s in all probability going to be extra gray. Regardless of that, it’s value taking the quick 15-minute path on flat gravel path by means of luscious bushes and ferns.
Hike Time: half-hour spherical journey
Parking: Ample free parking accessible
Scenic Lake Lookouts between Hokitika & Franz Joseph
From Hokitika, the drive to Franz Joseph is slightly below two hours with fast stops at fashionable lakes like Lake Mahinapua, Lake Ianthe and Lake Mapourika (closest to Franz Joseph). Every lake is a fast stroll from the automobile park so if the climate’s clear, you’ll catch a pleasant reflection view from the sting of the lake.
Lodging: Fox Glacier Lodge — S$97.46/night time in a one-bedroom studio. Fox Glacier is much more quiet than Franz Joseph however we picked this as a result of it was only a five-minute stroll to our heli hike expertise the subsequent day. Frequent kitchens can be found however central heating isn’t that nice so the widespread areas can really feel fairly chilly.
Day 9: Fox Glacier – Wanaka (Through Haast)
Get up early for the heli hike expertise and drive three and a half hours to Wanaka. You’ll need to depart early for ample daylight in your drive. The drive by means of Haast Go is one other beautiful drive and if you happen to make it earlier than sundown, cease by Lake Wanaka for one of the best views.
Heli Hike in Fox Glacier
Franz Joseph and Fox Glacier are probably the most accessible glaciers on this planet. You’ll be able to the truth is take a stroll as much as the terminal face of the glacier. However the easiest way to actually expertise that is through a helicopter journey and guided glacier stroll exploring the nooks and crannies (or reasonably crevices) of the glacier. This turned out to be an enormous spotlight in our South Island New Zealand itinerary!
Price: ~S$444.30
Assembly Level: Fox Glacier Guiding Centre
*Professional-tip: Choose the primary flight of the day. The exercise is very climate dependent, so your flight may get bumped as much as a later session.
Lake Wanaka
If there’s sufficient daylight, catch the sundown with #thatwanakatree in your foreground (sure, that’s what it’s named on Google Maps)!
Lodging: Clearbrook Motels Wanaka — ~S$147.28/night time for a studio condo. It’s proper outdoors Wanaka, a five-minute drive to Lake Wanaka, and a 8-minute drive to Roys Peak Carpark.
Day 10: Wanaka – Queenstown
Hike Roy’s Peak or Isthmus Peak
The views on this hike are VERY photogenic. In reality, it’s in all probability the MOST fashionable one within the South Island. Roys Peak is a steep ridge line hike that spans as much as six hours (spherical journey) however guarantees a tremendous view of Lake Wanaka and Glendhu Bay. Sadly we didn’t make it for the hike however do inform us about it within the feedback part under when you have!
Hike Time: 4 – 6 hours spherical journey (16km)
Parking: Ample free parking accessible on the carpark off Mount Aspiring Street
Annual Closure: 1 October – 10 November
*Professional-tip: This hike is normally very crowded. For a much less crowded hike with comparable views, take a look at Isthmus Peak as a substitute.
Crimson Star Burger Bar
We solely received right here as a result of an area challenged that this was higher than Fergburger. We beg to vary however to be truthful, Crimson Star does make actually nice burgers too. The burgers aren’t as extravagant however the elements and recent buns are scrumptious! I additionally extremely suggest the including the Kumara (candy potato) fries (NZ$8) with Aioli dip and malted milkshakes (NZ$6.50).
Price: Burgers from NZ$12
Opening Hours: 11:30AM – 9PM
Handle: 26 Ardmore St, Queenstown-Lakes 9305, New Zealand
And that concludes our 10 (very quick) days South Island New Zealand Itinerary! Extra than simply stunning sights, New Zealand was additionally the place we met among the nicest locals, confronted our fears and learnt the way to dance within the rain whereas the storms move. From Queenstown, we took an hour-and-a-half flight to Auckland the place we continued to discover the North Island.
Learn extra: 5-Day North Island New Zealand Itinerary in a Campervan Underneath S$600
New Zealand Itinerary Planning Necessities
Actions
Skydiving, bungy leaping and even the Milford Sound cruise are important experiences in New Zealand but additionally extremely fashionable. Beneficial time slots run out fairly quick even on non-peak journey intervals so superior bookings are important.
From utility merchandise just like the Supershuttle Airport Switch to outside actions like skydiving and our heli-hike expertise in Fox Glacier, we managed to seek out all the pieces we wanted in our South Island New Zealand itinerary on the Klook App.
Not solely is it extremely handy (all tickets have been saved on the app), I additionally seen on the bottom that many actions have been cheaper (even when it’s only a greenback) on Klook than the retail value!
There are over 300 actions for New Zealand on Klook, so journey planning on the app helped ease off a variety of the analysis on issues to do in every metropolis.
Driving in New Zealand
New Zealand is left-hand drive. Simply pay attention to single-lane bridge crossings — if you happen to see a purple signal, you’ll want to provide method to autos coming from the alternative finish. If it’s blue, you might have the appropriate of method.
The automobile rental from Klook introduced us by means of the various scenic roads from day three in Queenstown up until the morning of day eleven earlier than we caught our flight to the North Island.
There’s a saying that typically, probably the most scenic views come by on the detours you didn’t imply to make, and that couldn’t have been extra true for a spot like New Zealand!
Street trippin’ New Zealand? Take a look at the extra thrilling actions past our New Zealand Itinerary that’s accessible on Klook!
Up to date by: Alexis Ang
This South Island New Zealand Itinerary was delivered to you by Klook.
