I have never been to a place with as many diverse landscapes packed into a single place as New Zealand`s south island. And I live in California. From the rolling pastures of Marlborough`s wine region, to the rocky peaks of Mount Cook and Mt. Aspiring, to the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound, and up to the tropical-like beaches of Abel Tasman National Park, you`ll find a surprising amount of diversity on the south island of New Zealand.
We invested HOURS researching for my trip, and created a huge spreadsheet with all the information. Now, we’re sharing that research, along with our experiences on the trip, with you in the form of this New Zealand south island itinerary so that you can plan the perfect adventure.
Update 2021: We invested three magnificent weeks in New Zealand, and have been dreaming of our return trip ever since. Which was arranged in 2020, and is postponed for now. Based on our three week exploration through the southern region of New Zealand by road, here is how we would plan a 14 day itinerary for touring the southern island of New Zealand. We experienced most, but not all, of the things recommended below, and omitted some of the things we didn’t believe were worthwhile.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.
Table of Contents
Itinerary Overview
Before delving into the detailed itinerary below, here’s an overview of what you will find.
Day 1: Arrive in Queenstown, immediately head to Mt. Cook
Day 2: Mount Cook – hike Sealy Tarns or Hooker Valley Track
Day 3: Mount Cook to Tekapo – hike Hooker Valley Track or Red Tarns in the morning, drive to Tekapo. Do some night sky observation.
Day 4: Tekapo
Day 5: Tekapo to Hokitika via Arthur’s Pass
Day 6: Hokitika to Franz Josef Glacier
Day 7: Franz Josef to Wanaka via Haast Pass
Day 8: Wanaka
Day 9: Wanaka
Day 10: Wanaka to Milford Sound
Day 11: Milford Sound
Day 12: Milford Sound to Queenstown
Day 13: Queenstown
Day 14: Queenstown
Day 15 (we tricked you, you caught us): Fly home
And here’s a map.
How Many Days Should You Spend in New Zealand?
Though I spent three weeks exploring solely New Zealand`s south island, it barely allowed me to superficially visit locations. The reality is two weeks does not allow sufficient time to do justice to experiences across the entire country.
However, I understand that you likely only have around two weeks for your vacation, and you want to make the most of that time by experiencing as much as possible.
We’d strongly advise picking just one island to explore over that time period and saving the other island for a future voyage.
We strongly advise choosing to spend your two weeks in New Zealand on the South Island.
Things to Do Before You Get to New Zealand
- Obtaining cash funds. Many campgrounds exclusively accept cash payments, so it`s advisable to acquire cash beforehand – removing one potential source of stress upon arrival in New Zealand. We began with $400 NZ obtained through our home bank.
- Confirming valid travel documentation. For clear reasons.
- Downloading favorite audio books and podcasts for drives. Significant time will be spent on the road, so having engaging audio content can occupy silence which some find uncomfortable.
- Accessing offline maps of the South Island. This assists with navigation in remote regions of New Zealand lacking cell reception, or if not obtaining a local SIM card. Directions for download here.
- Accessing the Campermate app, considered the premier resource for identifying campsites along the route.
Where to Fly to Start Your New Zealand South Island Adventure
Essentially you have two options for flying into New Zealand’s south island – Christchurch and Queenstown.
Either one will work – We’d suggest doing an expansive circle and flying in and out of a similar air terminal.
For the purposes of structuring this New Zealand itinerary, we’re going to assume you arrive and depart from Queenstown. But keep in mind you can certainly do it from Christchurch instead with a few alterations.
Traveling between Christchurch and Queenstown could involve some backtracking if flying directly between the two cities, as Mount Cook and Lake Tekapo are located between them. While not ideal, detouring to see these places would still allow visitors to experience them.
If coming from the North Island, one could either fly or take a ferry. If using the ferry, it would disembark passengers in Picton at the northern end of the island. From there, I recommend rearranging the itinerary by removing the West Coast section and adding Abel Tasman instead. This would involve traveling to Abel Tasman from the ferry port, then driving down the West Coast, crossing Arthur`s Pass, and reaching the southern portion of the island.
Of course, the West Coast is awesome, but so is Abel Tasman, and that’s the first thing I would add if you have more than two weeks on New Zealand’s South Island. See the bottom of this post for how to add Abel Tasman to your itinerary
How to Get Around the South Island For 2 Weeks in New Zealand
There are several choices for moving around New Zealand, with different levels of cost and flexibility. This South Island of New Zealand two week plan works best if you have your own vehicle – either a car or campervan – which provides the most control over your destinations and sights.
If you’re seeking a guided excursion with all of your transportation and accommodations covered, I recommend G Adventures and their New Zealand tours, which you can check out here.
Why choose G Adventures? They`re dedicated to conscientious travel. They ensure respecting local communities and prioritizing partnering with small local enterprises over huge transnational corporations.
They even developed the “ Ripple score” which measures how much of the money from the excursion remains in the local community, which is an ingenious way to assess their impact on communities.
Consider exploring New Zealand`s scenic South Island on this 16 day tour.
Self Drive: Car vs. Campervan
To afford yourself as much flexibility to explore at your own pace, you’ll want to rent a vehicle or campervan.
The northern Pacific Coast is up north of Forks, and is much less visited and more rugged than the stretch between Rialto and Kalaloch.
With a vehicle, gas mileage will be better, but accommodations will need to be paid for throughout the journey.
With a campervan accommodations are discounted while scoring scenic shots for social profiles (sites need only be secured for the vehicle).
After thorough research mapping all associated costs, we found equal expenses whether choosing budget hotels/Airbnbs with a rental car or renting a campervan and campground spots during February and early March, the peak season. Expenditures may tilt slightly toward the campervan alternative in shoulder periods with milder crowds.
Since the cost is roughly equivalent, it comes down to your travel style. I will say that we chose vehicle, and I kind of wish we had chosen campervan for the experience.
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A Detailed 14 Day New Zealand South Island Road Trip Itinerary
Here is our suggested itinerary for 14 days. It allows you to experience all the top attractions in New Zealand including Milford Sound, Queenstown, and the rugged West Coast without too much rushing.
There’s still a lot of driving, we think it’s worth it in order to get to some of the best places in New Zealand.
Onwards to the super detailed itinerary!
Day 1 & 2: Fly into Queenstown and Head to Mt. Cook
Drive Time from Queenstown to Mount Cook: 3 hours
When you arrive at the Queenstown airport, there are a few things you should attend to inside and around the facility.
- Hire an automobile or recreational vehicle. At the airport, you’ll need to contact the company from which you’re renting to arrange pick up. You can request assistance from the information desk if you lack cellular service. Which brings me to my next point…
- If your phone is unlocked, procure a New Zealand SIM card at the airport. You can obtain one from Vodafone at the Queenstown airport. This will prove extremely helpful for directions as you’re traveling. At minimum, download an offline version of the Google Map of the South Island so you can access it without internet connectivity. Here’s how to do that.
- Head to New World, a supermarket chain in New Zealand, to obtain groceries, and the Warehouse, which resembles a Target or Walmart, for items like pots, pans, cutlery, and anything else your heart desires.
Then embark on the roadway, leave Queenstown behind, and make the approximately three hour journey to Mount Cook.
Don’t worry, you’ll be returning. You’re just going to start your trip in Mount Cook.
Since Mount Cook lacks grocery shopping facilities, be sure to obtain any food items needed for self-catering before arriving if you plan to prepare your own meals.
Need to eat gluten free? I do too! Don’t skip my guide to the best gluten free groceries I discovered in New Zealand.
Where to Stay in Mount Cook
Campervan / Campsite: White Horse Hill Campground (DOC). The setting truly doesn’t get any better – it’s at the base of both the Mueller Hut (or Sealy Tarns) hike and the Hooker Valley Track. There are flush bathrooms, running water, and a small kitchen area.
Economical Accommodation: Aoraki Court (where we stayed). This small hotel, which means something a slight different than in America, had spacious bedrooms, comfy beds, and great kitchen facilities. Your own little apartment in Mount Cook village near the start of the Red Tarns trail.
Luxury: The Hermitage Hotel. If you’re seeking a piece of luxury, the Hermitage is your location. Stunning views of the surrounding landscape Note: no kitchenette in the cheaper rooms, so you’ll have to dine at the restaurant/cafe onsite. However, you can book one of the motel rooms that come with a kitchenette, so you can save money by cooking for yourself.
Things to Do in Mount Cook
Here are some of the things you absolutely should experience while in the vicinity of Mt. Cook.
Spend time at Peter’s Lookout admiring the stunning vistas of Lake Pukaki
When approaching Mount Cook, make a stop at Peter’s Lookout for awe-inspiring perspectives of the vivid blues of Lake Pukaki with Mount Cook towering in the background.
Hike, hike, and hike some additional.
As avid hikers, Mount Cook offered some of the best hiking during the journey.
For beginner hikers, a pleasant amble along the Hooker Valley Track is recommended, crossing three suspension bridges before arriving at a lovely lake at the base.
Enjoy a challenging climb? Take the stairs exceeding 2,000 steps up to the Sealy Tarns route for awe-inspiring perspectives of Mount Cook and its surrounding valley region. You may also continue beyond to the Mueller Hut for an overnight stay ( reservations strongly recommended well in advance) or an extensive daily hike.
We also enjoyed the shorter Red Tarns track, which starts from Mount Cook Village.
Stop by the visitor center in Mt. Cook Village for current conditions and hike recommendations from the experts.
Read More Details: What You Need to Take on a Day Hike: 6 Hiking Essentials
Day 3 & 4: Lake Tekapo
Estimated Drive Time from Mount Cook to Tekapo: 1 hr and 15 mins
Catch a morning hike, like Red Tarns, eat breakfast, and make the quick trip over to Lake Tekapo. Lake Tekapo is yet another stunning blue lake set between rolling golden hills. The contrast between the hills and lake makes for some rather incredible views. Like the one above.
In December and January, you’ll find people flocking to Lake Tekapo to see the picturesque purple lupin bloom. We were there in February, so didn’t get to check them out. Lupin is actually an invasive species, so it’s not great for the surrounding environment. But damn to do they make for an amazing picture.
Where to Stay in Lake Tekapo
Lodging: Lake Tekapo Motels and Holiday Park ( where we resided).
This location on the lake just as you enter town is perfect. There are a range of campsites, powered and unpowered campervan sites, and newly renovated cabins and studios that cater to groups of varying sizes and budgets. We loved the location – there are barbecues and picnic tables facing the lake. The scenery couldn`t be better. Check prices and availability here.
Mid-Range: Lakeview Tekapo
They offer a studio and a 2 bedroom condo with amazing perspectives across Lake Tekapo to the Southern Alps. Modern conveniences, like well-equipped kitchens, and floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s besides right in the town center, which is ideal. Check prices and availability here.
Things to Do in Lake Tekapo
Here are some potential ways to spend your day around beautiful Lake Tekapo.
Mt. John Observatory (+bonus hike)
One of the best activities to engage in at Lake Tekapo is the hike to the summit of Mount John. The trail starts at Tekapo Springs (more details provided soon), and winds up to the summit, where sweeping 360 degree views of the rolling golden hills and bright blue lake that define Tekapo await. The cafe at the zenith is a pleasant refuge from the breeze, and is the perfect spot to enjoy coffee with a vista afterwards.
Tekapo Springs
Tekapo Springs is a lovely little oasis tucked away at the base of Mt. John on the shores of Lake Tekapo.
Church of the Good Shepard
Do some stargazing, or just swing by to check it out. Particularly at sunrise or sunset. Its picturesque location, set against the background of Lake Tekapo, is a great spot to take some pictures and catch a sunrise or sunset. See?
Take advantage of the dark sky and do some stargazing
On this part of the island, there is very little light pollution, which makes for some amazing stargazing. Alysha (my wife) and I have been known to sit in our camp chairs and stare straight up at the universe above us, and this was a perfect place to do just that. The Milky Way was on full display. To a extent that I don’t think I’ve ever seen before.
We opted out of an excursion, but on a future visit I`ll almost certainly schedule a tour of the Mt John Observatory led by a guide well-versed in astronomy and constellations.
As fun as it is to try and find the big dipper, the expert guide will help you make sense of the vast expanse unfolding above you. Book a stargazing tour in Tekapo here.
Day 5: Hokitika and the Rugged West Coast
Travel time by road between Tekapo and Hokitika: 5 hours
This will be a lengthy drive, but Arthur’s Pass makes an ideal stopping point in the center to disembark, extend your legs, and undertake a stroll before hopping back in the car and heading to Hokitika.
You could opt to stay overnight in Arthur’s Pass instead of Hokitika if you prefer a different location.
Where to Stay in Hokitika
We stayed at Drifting Sands Beachfront B&B, and it was nothing short of outstanding. You’ll have your own room, but you’ll be sharing bathrooms and kitchen facilities with a few other guests. There’s a beautiful outdoor area out back, with a trail that goes straight to the beach. The owner was very helpful in giving us ideas about what to do for our day in town, and even shipped my jacket to our accommodation in Queenstown after I left it there!
Things to Do in Hokitika
Hokitika Gorge
Throughout trips to Banff and North America`s North Cascades region, glimpses of bright azure lakes were often seen. But the azure waters of the Hokitika Gorge were a real treat.
You’ll park and take a short walk downhill to the waterfront. You’ll cross a swinging footbridge where everyone is attempting to capture that perfect shot for social media (including us), and then wind your way to the coast. Spend a few moments admiring the bright blue water, take some photographs, and head out. Because insects.
For each of the four neighborhoods, we’ve structured information to help you determine if it’s the suitable home base for you. Here’s what we’ll cover:
Lake Kaniere
Lake Kaniere wasn’t actually on my radar until we were currently in Hokitika. Our home at Drifting Sands referred to that we should prevent by on our way to the Hokitika Gorge. So we took a slight detour and drove around the lake on our way back into town. We came (studied) across a picturesque waterfall as we made our way along the shore, which is well worth a trip. There’s also some campsites, and it’s a great place for a picnic lunch preceding or after the gorge.
Sunset on the Beach
Hokitika is a little coastal community, and the beach is a perfect place to enjoy the sunset. Grab a beverage (or four) and head to the beach to watch the sunset with the locals and visitors gathered there.
Day 6: Franz Josef or Fox Glacier
Drive time between Hokitika and Franz Josef: 1 hour and 45 minutes
For what it’s worth, these two are fairly close together and similar in terms of what you’ll see and do. We chose to stay at Fox Glacier, and stopped at Franz Josef on our way in from Hokitika to do the glacier hike. You could also travel through to Fox Glacier and return to Franz Josef, or visit Fox Glacier on your way out from Franz Josef the next morning. It’s up to you!
Where to Stay in Franz Josef/Fox Glacier
In Franz Josef, stay at Franz Josef Top 10 Holiday Park if you’re traveling in a campervan or on a budgeted trip, and Rainforest Retreat if you prefer slightly more amenities.
At Fox Glacier, stay at Fox Glacier Top 10 Holiday Park (where we stayed) if you’re in a campervan or on a restricted budget, and Bella Vista Motel for a moderate level of convenience and space.
Things to Do in Franz Josef/Fox Glacier
Here are some great activities to engage in between the two glacier towns.
The Glaciers
Obviously, this is the location to witness glaciers in New Zealand, although they are sadly receding rapidly due to climate change.
Both glaciers involve a short hike leading directly to the base, accompanied by signs along the way explaining the geology and history of the glacier.
Be sure to pause to read the informational signs along the trail, as they show where the glacier reached just 50 years ago. Seeing that the glacier once extended a mile further than today likely increases awareness of each person`s contributions to climate change.
A Glacier Helicopter Tour and Heli-hike
If you’ve never taken a helicopter ride to view and walk on a glacier, this place offers that experience. It`s an expensive activity, but there aren`t many other locations worldwide where one get to do that. Check prices, reviews, and availability here.
Lake Matheson
Photographers should make a sunrise visit to Lake Matheson a priority. One can set up a tripod there along with seventy-two acquaintances to capture the impressive scene of surrounding mountains reflected across the tranquil waters. It is also a pleasant short walk around the lake worthwhile whether photographing or not.
The cafe near the entrance offers coffee with lovely views of the mountains and a sunlight-bathed outdoor patio, ideal after your walk.
Day 7-9: Haast Pass and Wanaka
Travel period between Franz Josef and Wanaka: 3 hours and 45 minutes
This is likely my preferred day on this itinerary.
You’re going to drive over Haast Pass, which is one of the most scenic drives I’ve ever done. There are quite a few phenomenal viewpoints and places to stop along the drive. At minimum, stop at the Blue Pools, Fantail Falls, and Thunder Creek Falls (pictured above).
Allow yourself ample time, and be sure to pause along the way to stretch your legs, check out some waterfalls, and soak in the sheer natural beauty of the area.
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Two accessible rooms, elevator access to all floors and public areas. A small step at the entrance, but staff are happy to provide assistance.
Anyway, enough rambling about how much I love this area. Here’s a mini-guide to Wanaka.
Are you traveling with Celiac disease? Check out my Guide to Gluten Free Wanaka.
Where to Stay in Wanaka
Airbnb: Gecko Airbnb (where we stayed). This extraordinary place to remain in Wanaka is actually position on a hill slightly away from the town center. It proved to be relatively expensive, but was absolutely worthwhile. We adored it – it offers a kitchen, an outdoor patio area, and a comfortable mattress. Which you`ll need after trekking in Wanaka. More on that will be discussed shortly. Check costs and availability here.
. Situated a short drive (5 min) or walk (25 min) from downtown, this location offers powered, unpowered and tent sites alongside motel rooms. Rates and space can be viewed here.
Accommodations: The YHA Wanaka or Altamont Lodge.Both facilities provide nice double or twin rooms with shared bathrooms and ample common kitchen spaces. The Altamount Lodge is located a ten minute drive outside of town if you’re seeking a tranquil, romantic getaway.
Best for Families: Alpine Motel. Economical apartment-style areas, where a family apartment with a King bed and two twin beds, a kitchenette, and an ensuite lavatory can be obtained. Alongside a trampoline, a play set, and other superb conveniences for children. Check prices and availability here.
Upscale: Edgewater Wanaka.This resort features both traditional room accommodations and self-contained apartment units. Every lodging provides scenic views of the lake from an outdoor patio or balcony area. Additional amenities include an on-site spa, tennis courts, a putting green, and a restaurant known for excellent cuisine. However, I suggest exploring the variety of dining options found throughout Wanaka as well. Click here for pricing details and bookings.
What to Do in Wanaka
Wanaka has an exceptionally amazing assortment of things to do and see. Here are our tops.
Wine Tasting
A hillside vineyard overlooking Lake Wanaka? I`m interested! Actually, the Central Otago region between Wanaka and Queenstown has many great places to sample wine, but Rippon Vineyards just outside Wanaka makes it perfect to unwind for an afternoon.
They conduct a guided tasting allowing you to sample a wide assortment of grape varieties they cultivate and produce on-site. A superb mid-day activity well worth trying to fit into your itinerary if scheduling permits.
Exploring the wines of Central Otago region in New Zealand is possible through organized tours. You can check availability and pricing here.
Take a Bike tour
There are numerous bike routes found within and surrounding Wanaka. For exploring the area by bicycle, head to Torpedo 7 Bikes where staff can recommend adventures tailored to your interests and abilities.
Visit the Lavender Farm
Just outside of the town, you’ll find a paradise based on Alysha`s account. The Wanaka Lavender Farm has picturesque fields full of lavender blooms, along with animals like llamas and cows, and an on-site cafe serving great tea and ice cream made using the lavender grown on the farm. It’s a delightful trip just outside of town that is enjoyable for both children and adults.
Hiking
I understand the thought that may be arising – oh great, here comes the inevitable “YOU HAVE TO DO ROY’S PEAK IT’S FANTASTIC.”
Here’s the thing though.
I have no knowledge if it’s amazing. And the reason is Isthmus Peak.
On the way into town, we stopped at Isthmus Peak to undertake a “quick” hike before heading to our Airbnb in the city to rest our weary bodies. The exertion left us too fatigued to wake at dawn for an adventure to Roy’s Peak over the next two days.
Oops.
Isthmus Peak is not a quick hike by any means. In fact, it`s truly one of the most physically challenging hikes I`ve ever embarked on. From the very beginning, you`ll progressively ascend upwards. And ascend. And ascend further still. The incline is completely STEEP. Every time you think to yourself “the summit must be just past that ridge,” you reach that ridge, only to see another ridge in the distance.
It’s an advanced hike – 16km and 1,100 meters of elevation gain – so make sure to come fully prepared with plenty of food and water.
While it proved challenging, it’s additionally one of the loveliest hikes I’ve accomplished. We passed sheep grazing along the trail near the summit, and I still find myself pondering if sheep secretly demonstrate great athleticism.
If you’re going to do Roy’s Peak, considered the top hike in Wanaka according to Instagram, get there EARLY. With its popularity on Instagram, I heard stories of long lines of people waiting to capture that picture at the top. You know the one.
Roy’s Peak is also a difficult hike with 15.5 km and 1,250 meters of elevation gain. You’ll also want to get there early because there’s very little cover from the sun, and it would be even more difficult in the heat of the afternoon hours.
Looking to pick one of them? Here’s a great comparison between Roy’s Peak and Isthmus Peak.
Eat!
Wanaka has some great food options – even for Celiacs. Here were a few of my favorites.
- Erik’s Fish and Chips – A certified truck serving fish and chips. Customers can take the food to go and eat by the waterfront to enjoy the view.
- Big Fig – A small restaurant with Mediterranean inspired cuisine and a pleasant location in Wanaka. We visited there four times total during the trip – twice in Wanaka, twice in Queenstown. Good coffee too.
- The Spice Room – Exceptional Indian cuisine.
- Black Peak Gelato – Need any description be given?
- Coffee at the Coffee Shack or Urban Grind for a coffee
Adventure Sports
While Queenstown is unquestionably the center for adventure in New Zealand, Wanaka is no slouch. There are many things to explore around Wanaka. Thinking yourself as daring? Here are a few possibilities to think about.
- Taking out Kayaks on the Clutha River
- Exploring Cadrona Valley by All-Terrain Vehicle
- Combining Jet Boat Tour and Scenic Hike
- Exploring the Cadrona Valley on Horseback
- Moderate-Level Waterfall Ascent
Day 10 & 11: Milford Sound
Travel time involving Wanaka and Milford Sound: 4 hours and 30 minutes
We decided to travel directly to Milford Sound instead of stopping in Wanaka so that we could relax more towards the end of the trip rather than worrying about getting back to Queenstown on time for our flight. Although it was about an hour and a half longer of a drive, I believe it was worth it to have more relaxation at the conclusion.
Plan to leave early to avoid getting stuck behind the large tour buses on the narrow road in Fiordland. Also allow extra time to stop and stretch your legs along the drive.
Be sure to have groceries before arriving at Milford Sound – there are virtually no options for food once there. And by virtually no options, I mean none. Te Anau is the last major stop for provisions and fuel.
We undertook the hike to Key Summit on the way in, and it served as a nice way to break up the long drive.
Where to Stay in Milford Sound
Spoiler alert: Milford Sound Lodge is literally the only place to stay in Milford Sound.
Many people stay in Te Anau, and make the 2 hour drive into the Sound, but I would strongly advise booking Milford Sound Lodge well in advance (they do sell out).
They offer campervan sites and chalets, which are pricey. In the past they had backpacker-style rooms, which was our accommodation, but it seems those have since been removed.
The facilities are well-equipped, with a nice kitchen and dining area and nice showers. The restaurant on site looks great too (albeit overpriced), but we didn’t dine there.
Fair warning – accommodations here will be expensive without a campervan.
If you don’t have a campervan and don’t want to stay at the lodge, you’ll have to stay in Te Anau. Find lodging options in Te Anau here.
What to Do in Milford Sound
Whatever you choose, you need water activities AT LEAST once. Whether kayaking or a boat tour is up to you. But why not both??
Sunrise kayak tour with Roscoe’s
The Sunriser Classic kayak tour with Roscoe’s was the highlight of our trip, and I cannot recommend the experience highly enough.
You’ll depart early in the morning before the tour boats have arrived, and you’ll make a large loop around the inner portion of the Sound with an knowledgeable guide who will search for wildlife (penguins were spotted!) and provide details about the geology and history of Milford Sound.
Beginners are more than welcome – it’s a fairly easy paddle around the Sound, although you will be out on the water for approximately three hours.
As long as being a brief walk from Milan’s best bars and restaurants is acceptable, it represents a sound choice, particularly for shorter trips.
Milford Sound Scenic Cruise
Another option to consider in Milford Sound is a scenic cruise that takes visitors out into the Sound to explore. Various companies offer similar experiences. Compare prices and reviews here.
Hiking in Fiordland: A Must-Do
We spent three days in Milford Sound, and completed three hikes in the vicinity. They were all spectacular, and I would consider trekking through Fiordland a must-see activity.
Gertrude’s Saddle (8.4 km / 662 m ascent, Difficult)
This proved to be the most taxing hike of the trio, but also the most rewarding upon achieving the summit (or saddle in this case).
You’ll start in a valley, make your way to a mountain, and make a not-so-leisurely ascent directly up. Lots of scrambling and semi-marked trails.
About halfway up, you’ll get to a smooth rock face that you’ll need to climb with the help of a rope. Somewhat like Half Dome in Yosemite, but not nearly as frightening/hazardous.
From there, you’ll be following little orange markers across piles of rocks, scrambling to the top. At the top, you’ll get sweeping views over Milford Sound, which make the climb abundantly worthwhile.
We experienced a kayaking trip during the morning hours, then spent the afternoon at Gertrude`s Saddle. It was amazing to view the Sound from two divergent angles. Later, as we dined, I turned to Alysha and expressed “This is essentially it right? This is the peak. Everything from now will be downhill from today.”
Lake Marian (6.1 km / 421 m ascent, easy to moderate)
Lake Marian is a relatively simple hike that starts with an easy stroll along a river, then winds along through the forest before emerging onto a beautiful alpine lake tucked in between towering rocky peaks.
A moderately challenging hiking trail called Key Summit (7.7 km / 419 m elevation gain).
We stopped on the way in to do this hike, and it was a nice break from driving. It required continuous climbing uphill (theme alert!) but it was brief, and you were rewarded with views across the valley and an informative self-guided tour through signs about the flora and fauna that call Milford Sound home.
Palazzo del Papa Country Suitesis a collection of trendy and contemporary apartments within a beautifully restored farmhouse just outside of Siena. It’s the perfect spot for an authentic Tuscan experience with all contemporary comforts.
Day 12 – 14: Queenstown
Drive from Milford Sound to Queenstown: 4 hours
Queenstown makes for a great concluding spot for a two-week trip to New Zealand.
It’s relaxing, yet you retain the option to raise your heart rate. Whether it involves freefalling, suspended jumping, or hiking, this region is renowned for adventure tourism in New Zealand.
There’s also plenty of great cuisine, wine, and leisure activities to do in Queenstown and the surrounding area.
Update 2021: Even more suggestions are provided! Peruse the complete guide to 3 Days in Queenstown for a thorough overview of activities, sights, eateries, and lodging.
Where to Stay in Queenstown
Accommodations where we stayed: Modern lakeside apartment. Excellent location – it is approximately a 30-minute walk into town along a lakeside path, or about a 10-minute bus ride. It has every amenity you could need, like a balcony overlooking the lake. Highly recommended!
Campsite/Campervan/Budget:Queenstown Top 10 Holiday Park or Sir Cedric’s Pod Hostel (no campervan sites at Sir Cedric’s)
Upscale:Hurley’s of Queenstown
What to Do in Queenstown
Adventure sports
As mentioned, Queenstown is renowned as New Zealand`s adventure capital. It offers experiences to suit nearly any appetite for thrill-seeking. Here is a start:
- Experiencing the Excitement of Jet Boating down the Shotover River
- Taking a Leap out of an Airplane
- Rafting the Exciting Waters of the Shotover River
- A High-Flying Cable Tour Through the Trees
- Bungee Jumping off the Iconic Kawarau Bridge
- Soaring through the Skies by Tandem Parachute
Hiking – Ben Lomond and Moke Lake
There are two hikes I’d recommend in and around Queenstown.
First is the Ben Lomond Peak hike (13km, 1,322m elevation gain, challenging). One has the option of beginning this route from the top of the Gondola (tickets available here), or from the Gondola base via the Tiki Trail. The ascent is beautifully scenic, and around two thirds of the way up, the climb to the summit commences. This last portion is quite strenuous, especially near the conclusion, but the views reward one`s efforts.
Just kidding. We thoroughly enjoyed this hike, and think you will too.
Wine Tasting
The Central Otago region is home to some of New Zealand`s finest wines outside of Marlborough. Just outside of Queenstown, visitors will find a handful of wineries that can be visited and local wines sampled.
My two favorites were the Wet Jacket winery, whose GEWÜRZTRAMINER variety profoundly impressed me and which also features a Whitestone Cheese tasting room attached, and the Peregrine Wines winery.
If touring Central Otago wine country seriously interests you, check out this guided wine tasting tour. Or, if cycling appeals to you more, check out this bike wine tour option.
Eat at some of Queenstown’s Best Restaurants!
I didn’t necessarily think of New Zealand as a food destination at the beginning of my trip, but by the end I found myself impressed with some of the delicious, although somewhat basic, food options. Particularly in Wanaka and Queenstown.
These were some of my favorite Queenstown dining choices, in no ranked order.
Fergburger: This simply had to be included. They are similarly skilled at handling orders for individuals with Celiac Disease, crafting the gluten free burgers in a separate area at the rear of the kitchen on an isolated grill. Prepare for waits, though the line transfers quickly. Despite the volume, the cashier promptly and plainly illuminated for me how they organize the gluten free burgers and made me feel at ease with their processes for minimizing cross-contamination.
Taco Medic: I’m fond of tacos, and Taco Medic hit the spot. Authentic tacos in a small storefront. Don’t miss the hot sauces.
Big Fig, Spice Room, and Erik’s Fish and Chips all have Queenstown locations, and I recommend them for the same reasons that I recommended them in Wanaka.
Don’t miss my Guide to Gluten Free Queenstown if you need gluten-free eats – there are a bunch of great options!
Day 15: Fly Home!
That concludes your 14 days exploring New Zealand’s South Island! Catch your flight and return home with all the memories you created still fresh in your mind.
Have More Time? What to Add to Your South Island Itinerary
If you have extra time available, I would suggest extending your trip to incorporate the northern end of the southern island, specifically Abel Tasman.
We had three weeks, and Abel Tasman and Milford Sound were our favorite places. Regrettably, they happen to be at basically opposite ends of the South Island. Lots of driving, but well worth it if you ask me.
If you had three weeks, everything would stay the same, but you would make these additional inclusions:
Day 5: The journey from Tekapo to Kaikoura included an overnight stay booked at the Kaikoura Boutique Hotel
Day 6: The trip continued from Tekapo to Marahau also known as Abel Tasman where an accommodation was reserved at the Barn Backpackers
Day 7 : Spending time in Abel Tasman
Day 8 : Additional days exploring Abel Tasman
Day 9: The excursion moved from Abel Tasman to Hokitika
Then, add a few days to either Wanaka, Mount Cook, or Queenstown depending on your interests. I’d probably choose Queenstown if it was up to me.
Here are some ideas based on what we did (or wished we did) while we were there.
- Christchurch (between Tekapo & Hokitika or Kaikoura)
- Dunedin and Invercargill (southern tip of the island)
- Blenheim and the Marlborough Wine Region
Drafting this itinerary has made me want to return ASAP.
The south island is so diverse in terms of landscapes, activities, and people I met along the way. From the owner of one of the places we stayed who pursued her dreams and moved to New Zealand on a whim, to the German family that was backpacking around the South Island for 3 months, and others. Everyone was happy, friendly, and excited to explore.
It seems like quality of life couldn’t be more satisfactory.
Some of my best memories of 2019 happened in New Zealand, and I would recommend it to everyone. Even if you’re not into the outdoors or adventure sports, New Zealand is a place that should be on your list.
Have you visited New Zealand’s South Island?? What were the highlights for you? I’d appreciate hearing from you.
Preparing a trip to New Zealand?
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