8 Days Scenic Drive Across South Island Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to International Antarctic Centre. This unique attraction offers interactive exhibits about life in Antarctica and is both educational and entertaining.

Head over to New Regent Street for lunch. This historic street is known for its colorful Spanish Mission-style architecture and charming cafes. After lunch, take some time to explore Christchurch Arts Centre, which houses various art galleries and shops.

In the evening, enjoy a relaxing punt ride on the Avon River with the combo ticket that includes Christchurch Tram City Tour & Punting Combo. This experience offers a romantic view of Christchurch from the water.

Start your day with a visit to Mona Vale, an elegant historic homestead surrounded by beautiful gardens. It's an ideal spot for morning tea or coffee.

Next, head over to Port Hills for some breathtaking views of Christchurch and Lyttelton Harbour. You can take short walks or simply enjoy the scenery from various lookout points.

In the evening, explore Cashel Street, known for its vibrant shopping precinct including The Crossing mall. Have dinner at one of Cashel Street's popular eateries.

Kick off your day with an exciting visit to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve. Here you can see native New Zealand wildlife up close including kiwis.

After Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, have lunch at one of the nearby cafes before heading over to Orana Wildlife Park. This open-range zoo offers unique animal encounters such as feeding giraffes or seeing lions up close.

End your day with a peaceful walk along Avon River. The riverside paths are perfect for an evening stroll before having dinner at one of Christchurch's riverside restaurants.

Start your day early with a scenic drive from Christchurch to Akaroa. The journey itself is beautiful, with rolling hills and coastal views. Upon arrival, visit the Akaroa Craft Distillery HeliGin Experience. This unique experience combines a helicopter ride with gin tasting, offering stunning aerial views of the region.

After the distillery tour, explore the charming French-influenced village of Akaroa. Have lunch at one of the local cafes and then take a leisurely walk along the waterfront. You can also visit some of the local shops and galleries.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Akaroa's highly-rated restaurants. The village is known for its fresh seafood and French cuisine.

Drive from Akaroa to Dunedin in the morning. Once you arrive, start your day with a visit to Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle. The castle offers beautiful gardens and stunning views over Otago Peninsula.

After exploring Larnach Castle, head into Dunedin city center for lunch at one of its historic cafes or restaurants. In the afternoon, visit the Otago Museum which has fascinating exhibits on natural history and cultural heritage.

In the evening, take a stroll down Baldwin Street, known as the steepest street in the world. Then enjoy dinner at one of Dunedin's popular eateries.

Drive from Dunedin to Queenstown in the morning. Upon arrival, start your adventure with a ride on the Skyline Gondola which offers panoramic views over Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu.

Have lunch at one of Queenstown's lakeside restaurants before heading out for an afternoon jet boating experience on Shotover River or exploring nearby hiking trails.

In the evening, relax with dinner at one of Queenstown's renowned restaurants followed by drinks at an atmospheric bar.

Drive from Queenstown to Central Otago in the morning. Start your day with a visit to some of Central Otago’s famous vineyards for wine tasting tours.

Enjoy lunch at one of these vineyards before heading out to explore more of Central Otago’s stunning landscapes including historic gold mining towns like Clyde and Cromwell.

End your day with dinner at a vineyard restaurant or head back towards Queenstown for more dining options.