21 Days Scenic Drives in South Island of New Zealand Itinerary

Begin your day with a scenic drive from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo, which takes approximately 3 hours. Upon arrival, visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, one of New Zealand's most photographed landmarks. The church offers breathtaking views of Lake Tekapo and the surrounding mountains.

In the afternoon, embark on Old Manila Tour: Rizal Park Intramuros & drive by Binondo. This tour will provide you with an immersive experience as you explore historical sites and learn about their significance. Afterward, relax at Reflections Cafe, where you can enjoy coffee or tea while taking in panoramic views of Lake Tekapo.

For dinner, head over to Kohan Restaurant, renowned for its Japanese cuisine and stunning lake views. After dinner, consider visiting the Mt John Observatory for some stargazing – Lake Tekapo is part of an International Dark Sky Reserve.

Drive from Lake Tekapo to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park (about 1 hour). Start your day with a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre to learn about New Zealand's mountaineering history. Then take an easy walk along one of the park's many trails such as Hooker Valley Track for spectacular views.

In the afternoon, join Manila Self Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game. This unique tour adds an element of fun as you solve mysteries while exploring beautiful landscapes. For lunch, stop by The Old Mountaineer's Cafe which offers hearty meals with great mountain views.

End your day with dinner at Hermitage Hotel Panorama Room, known for its fine dining experience featuring local produce and wines. Enjoy your meal while soaking in unparalleled views of Aoraki/Mount Cook.

Start your day with a scenic drive from Aoraki Mount Cook National Park to Wanaka, which takes approximately 2.5 hours. Upon arrival, visit the famous Wanaka Tree, a lone tree growing out of Lake Wanaka that has become an iconic photo spot. Then head over to Relishes Cafe for a delightful breakfast with lake views.

In the afternoon, explore the Rippon Vineyard, one of New Zealand's most picturesque wineries. Enjoy a wine tasting session while taking in the stunning views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. Afterward, join Timeless Trails: Rediscovering Old Manila for an engaging tour that combines history and beautiful scenery.

For dinner, dine at Bistro Gentil, known for its French-inspired cuisine and excellent service. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the lakefront or visit Cinema Paradiso, a quirky local cinema offering a unique movie-watching experience.

Drive from Wanaka to Queenstown (about 1 hour). Start your day with a ride on the Skyline Gondola to Bob's Peak for panoramic views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. Enjoy breakfast at Stratosfare Restaurant & Bar, located at the top of the gondola.

Fresh Seafood Market Experience awaits you in the afternoon. This tour will take you through local markets where you can sample fresh seafood and learn about local culinary traditions. Afterward, explore Queenstown Gardens or take a leisurely stroll along the lakefront.

Fergburger is a must-visit for dinner – this iconic burger joint is famous for its delicious and generously sized burgers. After dinner, unwind at The Bunker, a cozy bar known for its cocktails and intimate atmosphere.

Manila: Manila Ocean Park Entry Ticket will be your morning adventure as you embark on an unforgettable cruise through Milford Sound's stunning fjords. Depart early from Queenstown (approximately 4-hour drive) to reach Milford Sound in time for your cruise.

Milford Sound Lodge Pio Pio Restaurant is perfect for lunch after your cruise – enjoy hearty meals while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. In the afternoon, explore more of Fiordland National Park with short walks or simply relax and take in the natural beauty.

Redcliff Cafe in Te Anau offers delicious dinners made from locally sourced ingredients – it's about a 2-hour drive back from Milford Sound but worth it for their renowned dishes. After dinner, consider staying overnight in Te Anau to break up your journey.

Begin your day with a scenic drive from Te Anau to Dunedin, which takes approximately 3.5 hours. Upon arrival, visit the historic Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle, and explore its beautiful gardens and grand interiors. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at The Perc Cafe, known for its delicious coffee and hearty breakfast options.

In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Otago Peninsula to see the unique wildlife, including albatrosses and penguins. Join Manila: Intramuros Historical Walk Tour for an immersive experience that combines history with stunning coastal views. Afterward, relax at Emerson's Brewery, where you can sample local craft beers and enjoy a light lunch.

For dinner, head over to Two Chefs Bistro, renowned for its European-inspired cuisine and elegant atmosphere. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around the Octagon area in central Dunedin to soak in the city's vibrant nightlife before heading back to your accommodation.

Drive from Dunedin to Oamaru (about 1.5 hours). Start your day with a visit to the Oamaru Public Gardens, one of New Zealand's oldest gardens featuring beautiful landscapes and historic structures. Enjoy breakfast at Riverstone Kitchen, located just outside Oamaru and known for its farm-to-table dining experience.

Manila Chinatown Food Tour Experience with Mari will be your afternoon adventure as you explore Oamaru's Victorian Precinct. This tour offers a unique blend of history and culinary delights as you wander through charming streets lined with well-preserved Victorian buildings. Stop by Cucina for lunch, offering Italian-inspired dishes made from local ingredients.

The Criterion Hotel is perfect for dinner – this historic pub offers hearty meals in a cozy setting. After dinner, visit the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony to see these adorable creatures return home at dusk – it's an unforgettable experience that highlights Oamaru's natural beauty.

Manila: Sightseeing and Food Walking Tour with Tastings will be your morning activity as you drive from Oamaru to Timaru (about 1 hour). Start your day with a visit to Caroline Bay Park, known for its beautiful beach and recreational facilities. Enjoy breakfast at The Oxford, offering delicious meals in a charming setting.

Manila: Historical Bamboo Bike Tour in Intramuros awaits you in the afternoon as you explore Timaru's cultural attractions such as the South Canterbury Museum and Aigantighe Art Gallery. For lunch, stop by Speights Ale House, known for its hearty pub fare and relaxed atmosphere.

Ginger & Garlic Restaurant is ideal for dinner – this highly-rated spot offers Asian fusion cuisine made from fresh local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along Stafford Street to explore Timaru's vibrant nightlife before heading back to your accommodation.

Start your day with a visit to the Canterbury Museum, located in the heart of Christchurch. This museum offers fascinating exhibits on New Zealand's natural and cultural history. After exploring the museum, take a stroll through Hagley Park, one of the largest urban open spaces in New Zealand. Enjoy breakfast at The Villas, known for its delicious breakfast options and cozy atmosphere.

In the afternoon, join Manila: Intramuros Night Walk for an immersive experience that combines history with beautiful scenery. This tour will take you through some of Christchurch's most iconic landmarks and provide you with insights into the city's rich heritage. Afterward, relax at C1 Espresso, a quirky cafe offering great coffee and innovative dishes.

For dinner, head over to 50 Bistro, renowned for its contemporary New Zealand cuisine and elegant setting. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Avon River or visit the Isaac Theatre Royal for a show before heading back to your accommodation.

Drive from Christchurch to Kaikoura (about 2.5 hours). Start your day with a visit to the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway, which offers stunning coastal views and opportunities to see seals and other wildlife. Enjoy breakfast at The Pier Hotel, known for its delicious meals and scenic location.

Manila Chinatown Food Tour Experience with Mari awaits you in the afternoon as you embark on a whale watching tour – Kaikoura is famous for its marine life, including sperm whales, dolphins, and seals. Afterward, relax at Hislops Wholefoods Cafe, offering organic dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

Green Dolphin Restaurant & Bar is perfect for dinner – this highly-rated spot offers fresh seafood dishes made from local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach or visit one of Kaikoura's local bars before heading back to your accommodation.

Manila: Historical Bamboo Bike Tour in Intramuros will be your morning activity as you drive from Kaikoura to Hanmer Springs (about 2 hours). Start your day with a visit to Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa – soak in the hot pools and enjoy various spa treatments for ultimate relaxation.

Manila: Sightseeing and Food Walking Tour with Tastings awaits you in the afternoon as you explore Hanmer Springs' charming village center. For lunch, stop by Malabar Restaurant, known for its delicious Indian cuisine and friendly service.

No.31 Restaurant & Bar is ideal for dinner – this highly-rated spot offers contemporary New Zealand cuisine made from fresh local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around Hanmer Forest or simply relax at your accommodation.

Start your day with a scenic drive from Hanmer Springs to Nelson, which takes approximately 4 hours. Upon arrival, visit the World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum, a unique attraction that combines art and vintage cars. Enjoy breakfast at The Suter Cafe, located within the Suter Art Gallery, offering delicious meals and beautiful views of the Queens Gardens.

In the afternoon, join Manila: Old & New 4-Hour City Tour for an engaging tour that combines history and beautiful scenery. This tour will take you through some of Nelson's most iconic landmarks and provide you with insights into the city's rich heritage. Afterward, relax at Liquid Alchemy, a local distillery offering tastings of their handcrafted spirits.

For dinner, head over to Hopgoods Restaurant, renowned for its contemporary New Zealand cuisine and elegant setting. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Maitai River or visit one of Nelson's local bars before heading back to your accommodation.

Manila: Intramuros Historical Walk Tour will be your morning activity as you drive from Nelson to Abel Tasman National Park (about 1 hour). Start your day with a visit to Kaiteriteri Beach, known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Enjoy breakfast at The Beached Whale Restaurant & Bar, offering delicious meals with stunning beach views.

Manila: Sightseeing and Food Walking Tour with Tastings awaits you in the afternoon as you embark on a guided kayaking tour through Abel Tasman National Park – explore hidden coves, pristine beaches, and lush forests while learning about the park's natural history. For lunch, stop by Fat Tui, known for its gourmet burgers made from fresh local ingredients.

Boat Shed Cafe is perfect for dinner – this highly-rated spot offers fresh seafood dishes made from local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach or simply relax at your accommodation.

Manila: Intramuros Night Walk will be your morning activity as you drive from Abel Tasman National Park to Picton (about 2 hours). Start your day with a visit to the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum, home to one of the world's oldest surviving wooden ships. Enjoy breakfast at Gusto Cafe, known for its delicious coffee and hearty breakfast options.

Manila Chinatown Food Tour Experience with Mari awaits you in the afternoon as you embark on a scenic cruise through the Marlborough Sounds – explore secluded bays, lush forests, and stunning coastal landscapes while learning about the region's natural history. For lunch, stop by Seabreeze Cafe & Bar, offering fresh seafood dishes made from local ingredients.

Cortado Restaurant is ideal for dinner – this highly-rated spot offers contemporary New Zealand cuisine made from fresh local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along Picton's waterfront or simply relax at your accommodation.

Start your day with a scenic drive from Picton to Blenheim, which takes approximately 30 minutes. Upon arrival, visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, where you can explore fascinating exhibits on World War I and II aircraft. Enjoy breakfast at Ritual Cafe, known for its delicious coffee and hearty breakfast options.

In the afternoon, join Manila: Historical Bamboo Bike Tour in Intramuros for an engaging tour that combines history and beautiful scenery. This tour will take you through some of Blenheim's most iconic landmarks and provide you with insights into the city's rich heritage. Afterward, relax at Allan Scott Family Winemakers, where you can sample local wines and enjoy a light lunch.

For dinner, head over to Arbour Restaurant, renowned for its contemporary New Zealand cuisine and elegant setting. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Taylor River or visit one of Blenheim's local bars before heading back to your accommodation.

Manila: Sightseeing and Food Walking Tour with Tastings will be your morning activity as you drive from Blenheim to the West Coast (about 4 hours). Start your day with a visit to Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki – these unique limestone formations are a must-see. Enjoy breakfast at Pancake Rocks Cafe, offering delicious meals with stunning coastal views.

Manila: Intramuros Historical Walk Tour awaits you in the afternoon as you explore the West Coast's natural beauty. Visit Hokitika Gorge for its turquoise waters and lush surroundings or take a walk along one of the many trails in Paparoa National Park. For lunch, stop by Stumpers Bar & Cafe, known for its hearty pub fare and relaxed atmosphere.

Junction Honey Cafe is perfect for dinner – this highly-rated spot offers fresh dishes made from local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along Hokitika Beach or simply relax at your accommodation.

Manila: Old & New 4-Hour City Tour will be your morning activity as you drive from Hokitika to Franz Josef Glacier (about 2 hours). Start your day with a visit to the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools – soak in the hot pools surrounded by native rainforest for ultimate relaxation. Enjoy breakfast at Full of Beans Cafe, known for its delicious coffee and hearty breakfast options.

Manila Chinatown Food Tour Experience with Mari awaits you in the afternoon as you embark on a guided glacier hike – explore ice caves, crevasses, and stunning blue ice formations while learning about the glacier's natural history. For lunch, stop by The Landing, offering fresh dishes made from local ingredients.

King Tiger Eastern Eating House & Bar is ideal for dinner – this highly-rated spot offers Asian fusion cuisine made from fresh local ingredients. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around Franz Josef Village or simply relax at your accommodation.

Start your day with a scenic drive from Franz Josef Glacier to Wanaka via Haast Pass, which takes approximately 4 hours. Along the way, stop at the Blue Pools Track for a short walk to see the stunning clear blue pools. Enjoy breakfast at Haast River Safari Cafe, known for its delicious coffee and hearty breakfast options.

In the afternoon, join Manila: Intramuros Historical Walk Tour for an engaging tour that combines history and beautiful scenery. This tour will take you through some of Wanaka's most iconic landmarks and provide you with insights into the city's rich heritage. Afterward, relax at Edgewater Restaurant, where you can enjoy a light lunch with stunning lake views.

For dinner, head over to Francesca's Italian Kitchen, renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine and cozy atmosphere. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the lakefront or visit one of Wanaka's local bars before heading back to your accommodation.

Drive from Wanaka to Arrowtown (about 1 hour). Start your day with a visit to the Lakes District Museum & Gallery, which offers fascinating exhibits on Arrowtown's gold mining history. Enjoy breakfast at The Chop Shop Food Merchants, known for its delicious meals and quirky setting.

In the afternoon, join Manila: Sightseeing and Food Walking Tour with Tastings for an immersive experience that combines history and culinary delights. This tour will take you through some of Arrowtown's most iconic landmarks and provide you with insights into the town's rich heritage. Afterward, relax at Provisions of Arrowtown, offering delicious baked goods and coffee.

For dinner, head over to Saffron Restaurant, renowned for its contemporary New Zealand cuisine and elegant setting. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around Arrowtown or visit one of its local bars before heading back to your accommodation.

Start your day with a scenic drive from Arrowtown to Glenorchy (about 1 hour). Upon arrival, visit the Glenorchy Wharf for stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. Enjoy breakfast at The Trading Post, known for its delicious coffee and hearty breakfast options.

In the afternoon, join Manila: Old & New 4-Hour City Tour for an engaging tour that combines history and beautiful scenery. This tour will take you through some of Glenorchy's most iconic landmarks and provide you with insights into the town's rich heritage. Afterward, relax at Glenorchy Cafe, offering fresh dishes made from local ingredients.

For dinner, head over to Wyuna Preserve Lodge Restaurant, renowned for its contemporary New Zealand cuisine and elegant setting. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around Glenorchy or simply relax at your accommodation before concluding your South Island adventure.