New Chat

Download App

Ask me about your trip!

There are no messages for this conversation.

Free AI trip planner

South Island Road Trip: Glaciers, Mountains, and Vineyards Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

City Exploration and Fine Dining in Christchurch

Morning

Start your road trip by exploring the vibrant city of Christchurch. Visit the unique Shantytown Heritage Park to get a glimpse of the region's gold-mining history.

Afternoon

Enjoy a delicious lunch at The Bunker Restaurant & Bar, known for its local cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the serene Christchurch Botanic Gardens.

Evening

For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at Rātā Restaurant, where you can savor the flavors of New Zealand. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the Riverside Avon Walkway.

Bedtime

Find amazing hotels in Christchurch, New Zealand.

4.36
Shantytown Heritage Park
Book Now

4.42
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Book Now

Turquoise Waters and Stargazing at Lake Tekapo

Morning

Depart for Lake Tekapo and enjoy a scenic drive to this stunning alpine lake. Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and take in the breathtaking views.

Afternoon

Have a relaxing lunch at Yonder Queenstown, a charming cafe with a focus on local produce. Afterward, take a scenic flight or a boat tour on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tekapo.

Evening

Experience the world-renowned Mt. John Observatory and indulge in some stargazing at the University of Canterbury Mt John Observatory. Enjoy a late dinner at the Lake Tekapo Tavern with views of the starry night sky.

Bedtime

Find amazing hotels in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand.

Church of the Good Shepherd
Book Now

4.49
Lake Tekapo
Book Now

Hiking and Glacier Views in Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park

Morning

Head to Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park, home to the tallest peak in New Zealand. Embark on a morning hike on one of the many scenic trails in the area.

Afternoon

Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the stunning alpine scenery. Afterward, take a scenic flight over the majestic Tasman Glacier (Haupapa).

Evening

Dine at the iconic The Hermitage Hotel, with views of the snow-capped mountains. Relax and unwind in the evening, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the national park.

Bedtime

Find amazing hotels in Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park, New Zealand.

4.75
Tasman Glacier (Haupapa)
Book Now

Adventure and Culinary Delights in Queenstown

Morning

Arrive in the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown. Start your day with a thrilling activity such as bungee jumping or jet boating.

Afternoon

For lunch, enjoy the famous burgers at Fergburger. Afterward, take a scenic drive to the historic Arrowtown and explore the charming streets.

Evening

Dine at the award-winning Rata Dining, known for its innovative cuisine. End the day with a scenic gondola ride to the Skyline Queenstown for panoramic views of the Remarkables mountain range.

Bedtime

Find amazing hotels in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Cruise and Waterfalls in Fiordland National Park

Morning

Embark on a full-day cruise on the Doubtful Sound, a remote and pristine fiord. Keep an eye out for dolphins, seals, and penguins.

Afternoon

Enjoy a picnic lunch on board as you soak in the dramatic scenery of the fiord. Visit the stunning Milford Sound and take a short hike to one of the cascading waterfalls.

Evening

Return to Queenstown in the evening and dine at Amisfield Bistro & Cellar Door, a renowned winery with a focus on local produce. Enjoy a wine tasting with views of the vineyards.

Bedtime

Find amazing hotels in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand.

4.49
Milford Sound
Book Now

Historic Charm and Wildlife in Dunedin

Morning

Explore the historic city of Dunedin, known for its Scottish heritage. Visit the Larnach Castle, the only castle in New Zealand, and take a tour of the stunning gardens.

Afternoon

Have a leisurely lunch at Glenfalloch Restaurant & Gardens, a historic restaurant with a focus on local cuisine. In the afternoon, visit the Otago Peninsula for a chance to see albatrosses, penguins, and seals in their natural habitat.

Evening

Dine at Fleur's Place, a renowned seafood restaurant on the waterfront. Afterward, take a stroll along the Dunedin Waterfront and enjoy the sunset.

Bedtime

Find amazing hotels in Dunedin, New Zealand.

4.14
Larnach Castle
Book Now

4.52
Otago Peninsula
Book Now

Glaciers and Rainforests on the West Coast

Morning

Journey to the West Coast of the South Island, known for its rugged coastline and ancient rainforests. Visit the Franz Josef Glacier and take a guided walk to see the blue ice up close.

Afternoon

Enjoy a late lunch at The Landing Bar & Restaurant, with views of the glacier. Afterward, explore the West Coast Wildlife Centre and learn about the conservation efforts in the area.

Evening

Relax in the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools and enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by the rainforest. Dine at The White Pub Franz Josef, a local favorite for hearty meals.

Bedtime

Find amazing hotels in West Coast, New Zealand.

4.49
Franz Josef Glacier
Book Now

4.41
West Coast Wildlife Centre
Book Now

Wine Tasting and Scenic Views in Marlborough

Morning

Travel to the Marlborough region, famous for its vineyards and stunning landscapes. Start your day with a wine tasting tour at one of the Marlborough Vineyards.

Afternoon

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Cloudy Bay Shack, with views of the vineyards. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to the Marlborough Sounds and enjoy a boat tour of the pristine waterways.

Evening

Dine at Arusi Persian Restaurant, a unique dining experience in the heart of Marlborough. Relax and unwind in the peaceful surroundings of the region.

Bedtime

Find amazing hotels in Marlborough, New Zealand.

Marlborough Vineyards
Book Now

4.31
Marlborough Sounds
Book Now

Farewell to the South Island in Christchurch

Morning

Spend your last morning in New Zealand exploring the Christchurch Art Gallery and the vibrant Re:START Mall. Pick up some last-minute souvenirs and gifts.

Afternoon

For your final meal, enjoy a relaxed lunch at Little High Eatery, a bustling food hall with a variety of options. Take a punt ride on the Avon River for a peaceful end to your South Island adventure.

Evening

Transfer to the airport for your departure, taking with you the memories of a truly unforgettable road trip through the stunning landscapes of the South Island.

Bedtime

Find amazing hotels in Christchurch, New Zealand.