Stop dreaming and start driving: Seven South Island road trips to add to your bucket list
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Loading... - charles daisey
- 20 May 2022
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There's no denying it; the South Island delivers on all road trip essentials. World-class scenery, bustling small towns, and tasty destinations await lucky road trippers. If seeing New Zealand's most picturesque region by car is on your bucket list, here's your sign to stop dreaming and start driving.
You can't make a wrong turn on this roadie, from Unesco World Heritage-listed parks to snow-capped mountains and off-the-beaten-track gems. Turn up the tunes; here are seven road trips you need to take in the South Island.
Take On The Wild West Coast
They call it the wild West Coast for a reason – this winding route along the South Island's own natural wonderland is not exactly breezy, but it's well worth the trek. You'll tick off a line-up of nature's finest, including the Punakaiki pancake rocks, Franz Josef Glacier and the magical Te WÄhipounamu World Heritage Area. Set off from Queenstown and meander through Mount Aspiring National Park for the full experience. Pit stops at Greymouth and Hokitika will help you get a feel for the region's history, plus refuel with a hearty meal and a good night's sleep.
Scout Out Seascapes Across The Catlins
There's no better way to spend a blissful long weekend than with a short roadie through the Catlins. This one is easily done in three to four days, but we recommend wrapping up with 12 hours in Invercargill. Set off from Balclutha and journey through a wilderness haven packed with waterfalls, coastal views and untouched hidden gems. Our list of must-see places includes Nugget Point lighthouse, Cathedral Caves and the Petrified Forest. For sustenance, add Niagara Falls Café to the GPS, which you'll find just up the rad from Curio Bay.
Do The Most On The Te Anau To Milford Sound Drive
While this 90-minute drive might not seem road-trip worthy, it's because travellers are often focused on the end destination; the stunning Milford Sound. But if you like to take things slow, we guarantee the journey is just as rewarding. Dotted with scenic viewpoints, secluded walking tracks and glistening lakes, you could drive this route several times and never get bored. For snap-worthy views, stop off at Pops View and Gertrude Valley lookouts. On the lakes front, you can't miss the Mirror Lakes on a good day, or for moody vibes, take the short walk out to Lake Gunn.
Traverse The Alpine Highway
Christchurch to Greymouth via Arthur's Pass is easily one of our favourite gateways to the South Island's West Coast. Things start off pretty breezy along the Canterbury Plains en route to Arthur's Pass. After this, you'll descend into the abundant greenery of the West Coast, following along the ÅŒtira River. This route treats you to a world of landscapes, all within a mere few hours. If you want to make this a longer getaway, a night (or several) in Christchurch is a must. Read More…
