New Zealand South Island Self Drive Itinerary

Welcome traveller! This document is the ultimate guide for your New Zealand's South Island self-driving holiday. It brings together the great outdoors, amazing attractions, cosy accommodations, and the finest local cuisines promising you an unforgettable journey through the beautiful landscapes and coasts of South Island.

Day 1: Arrival in Christchurch

Begin your journey in the largest city on South Island - Christchurch. Stay at the stunning Heritage Christchurch and enjoy dinner at Twenty-Seven Steps.

Destination	Activities	Accommodation	Dining
Christchurch	Arrival, and check-in at Heritage Christchurch	Heritage Christchurch	Twenty-Seven Steps

Day 2-3: Christchurch to Kaikoura

Hit the road towards the coastal town of Kaikoura. Witness the spectacular wildlife, especially the whales and dolphins. Don't miss out on the walk on the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway. Stay overnight at the Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses and dine at The Pier Hotel Restaurant.

Destination	Activities	Accommodation	Dining
Kaikoura	Drive to Kaikoura, Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway, wildlife watching (whales, dolphins)	Hapuku Lodge + Tree Houses	The Pier Hotel Restaurant

Day 4-5: Kaikoura to Marlborough

Drive to Marlborough, explore the world-renowned Sauvignon Blanc at their wineries, and dine at Arbour. Over the next two days, stay at The Marlborough Lodge.

Destination	Activities	Accommodation	Dining
Marlborough	Visit Marlborough wineries, wine tasting at Arbour	The Marlborough Lodge	Arbour

Day 6-7: Marlborough to Nelson

Take a scenic drive to Nelson to enjoy its golden beaches and local artist galleries. Enjoy comfortable accommodations at the Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco and have a delicious dinner at Hopgood's & Co.

Destination	Activities	Accommodation	Dining
Nelson	Scenic drive to Nelson, visit local artist galleries	Grand Mercure Nelson Monaco	Hopgood's & Co

Day 8-10: Nelson to Westport via Punakaiki

Up next, visit the mesmerising Pancake Rocks in Punakaiki and continue to Westport for your overnight stay at the Westport Spa Motel while enjoying dining at Johnny's Restaurant.

Destination	Activities	Accommodation	Dining
Westport	Visit Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, continue to Westport	Westport Spa Motel	Johnny's Restaurant

Day 11-13: Westport to Franz Josef

Drive towards Franz Josef, home to one of the most accessible glaciers in the world. Experience a guided glacier heli hike and unwind at the Glacier Hot Pools. Stay and dine at the Rainforest Retreat.

Destination	Activities	Accommodation	Dining

Franz Josef	Drive to Franz Josef, guided glacier heli hike, Glacier Hot Pools	Rainforest Retreat

Day 14-15: Franz Josef to Queenstown

Drive down to Queenstown, and enjoy the thrill of their famous bungee jump or a calming Lake Wakatipu cruise. Dine at Botswana Butchery. Hotel St Moritz will offer a glorious stay for two nights.