Upon arrival in Queenstown, immerse yourself in the picturesque town and its natural splendor. Take a gondola ride up to Bob's Peak for panoramic views of the city's skyline and Lake Wakatipu. Afterward, explore the town’s many outdoor adventures, such as bungee jumping or canyoning in Skippers Canyon.
Spend the day in Milford Sound, a breathtaking fjord famous for its cascading waterfalls and abundant wildlife. Take a cruise to fully appreciate the beauty of the area, then hike the Milford Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks, for stunning views of the surroundings.
Journey to Franz Josef Glacier, a spectacular natural wonder of the South Island. Hike through the glacial valley, take an exhilarating helicopter tour or relax in the nearby hot springs.
Stop by Hokitika, a charming coastal town known for its rich history in greenstone carving. Then, head north to Punakaiki for a stunning view of the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. Join a guided tour to explore the unique limestone formations on a nature walk to enhance your experience.
Begin the day with a pleasant drive along the picturesque Arthur's Pass to Christchurch, the Garden City of New Zealand. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the city's unique blend of contemporary culture and heritage architecture, including the Christchurch Botanic Gardens and the Canterbury Museum.
Travel to Akaroa, a romantic French-inspired settlement nestled in the heart of the stunning Banks Peninsula. Take a scenic cruise around the harbor to spot rare Hector's dolphins, penguins, and other marine life. Afterward, soak up the town's unique culture through its local markets, art galleries, and European style cafes.
Conclude your adventure by venturing to Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand's highest peak. Enjoy the sensational scenery on a guided nature walk or thrilling helicopter ride. Don't forget to indulge in a hearty meal at the Hermitage Hotel, which boasts remarkable views of the park and Aoraki/Mount Cook.
It's recommended to rent a car to explore the South Island at your own pace. The roads are well-maintained, and there are many scenic routes to take. If you choose not to drive, there are also bus tours and shuttle services available. The estimated cost for renting a car in New Zealand is NZD 50-80 per day, and traveling around the South Island should take approximately seven hours of driving per day.
If you're short on time, skip Punakaiki and head straight to Christchurch to give yourself an extra day to explore the city's many attractions. If you have more time, extend your trip to the North Island and visit Rotorua, Auckland, and the Bay of Islands for a complete New Zealand experience.
Queenstown Airport (ZQN) is located in Frankton, just 9 km from the city center. It services both domestic and international flights and is the gateway to many South Island destinations. Christchurch Airport (CHC) is the largest airport on the South Island, located approximately 12 km northwest of the city center. It has domestic and international flights and connects to other New Zealand cities, as well as Australia and the Pacific Islands.