How many days do you need in New Zealand south island from qeenstown to christchurch?

This itinerary covers 6 days in New Zealand south island from qeenstown to christchurch, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for New Zealand south island from qeenstown to christchurch?

Plan your perfect 6 days trip to New Zealand south island from qeenstown to christchurch. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Family-Friendly South Island Road Trip: Queenstown to Christchurch

Day 1: Adventure in Queenstown

Queenstown, New Zealand

8:00AM

Breakfast at Fergburger

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the iconic Fergburger, known for its mouth-watering burgers.

NZD 15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Skyline Queenstown Gondola Ride

Enjoy panoramic views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu from the Skyline Gondola. Perfect for all ages!

NZD 44, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Winery

Indulge in a delicious lunch paired with local wines at The Winery in Queenstown.

NZD 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Jet Boat Tour on Shotover River

Experience an adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride on the Shotover River, fun for the whole family!

NZD 129, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cow Restaurant

Enjoy a cozy dinner at The Cow Restaurant, famous for its hearty Italian dishes.

NZD 40, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Queenstown

Day 2: Exploring Te Anau and Milford Sound

Te Anau, New Zealand

9:00AM

Scenic Drive to Te Anau

Embark on a scenic drive to Te Anau, a charming town on the shores of Lake Te Anau.

Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Fat Duck

Enjoy a tasty lunch at The Fat Duck, known for its hearty meals and cozy ambiance.

NZD 25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Cruise on Milford Sound

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound on a scenic cruise, marvel at waterfalls and wildlife.

NZD 90, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Redcliff Cafe

Relax and unwind over dinner at Redcliff Cafe, offering delicious local cuisine.

NZD 35, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Te Anau

Day 3: Wonders of Wanaka

Wanaka, New Zealand

9:00AM

Morning Stroll at Lake Wanaka

Start your day with a peaceful stroll around the crystal-clear Lake Wanaka, a perfect spot for family photos.

Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Puzzling World Visit

Explore the quirky and mind-bending illusions at Puzzling World, a fun experience for kids and adults alike.

NZD 20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Big Fig

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Big Fig, a cozy cafe known for its fresh and flavorful dishes.

NZD 20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hike up Mount Iron

Embark on a family-friendly hike up Mount Iron for stunning panoramic views of Wanaka and its surroundings.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Urban Grind

Savor a satisfying dinner at Urban Grind, offering a diverse menu in a relaxed atmosphere.

NZD 30, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Wanaka

Day 4: Discovering Franz Josef Glacier

Franz Josef Glacier, New Zealand

9:00AM

Scenic Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Embark on a scenic drive to Franz Josef Glacier, a natural wonder with opportunities for hiking and glacier exploration.

Free, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Landing Bar & Restaurant

Fuel up with lunch at The Landing, offering a variety of dishes to suit every taste.

NZD 25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

Experience the thrill of a helicopter ride and a guided glacier hike, a memorable adventure for the family.

NZD 450, 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Full of Beans

Relax and enjoy a hearty dinner at Full of Beans, offering a cozy atmosphere and delicious comfort food.

NZD 35, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Franz Josef Glacier

Day 5: Scenic Drive to Punakaiki

Punakaiki, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive from Franz Josef Glacier to Punakaiki

Embark on a scenic drive along the stunning West Coast to Punakaiki, home to the famous Pancake Rocks.

Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Pancake Rocks Cafe

Enjoy a meal at The Pancake Rocks Cafe with views of the unique limestone formations that give the area its name.

NZD 20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Exploring Punakaiki Rocks

Stroll along the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks Walk to marvel at the fascinating rock formations shaped by the sea.

Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Punakaiki Beach

Unwind at Punakaiki Beach, a beautiful spot for a leisurely afternoon with the family.

Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Hydrangea Cottages Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious dinner at The Hydrangea Cottages Restaurant, offering a cozy setting and tasty local cuisine.

NZD 40, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Punakaiki

Day 6: Journey to Christchurch

Christchurch, New Zealand

9:00AM

Drive from Punakaiki to Christchurch

Embark on a leisurely drive through the scenic Canterbury region to Christchurch, known as the Garden City.

Free, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at C1 Espresso

Experience quirky dining at C1 Espresso, home to the famous pneumatic food delivery system and delicious treats.

NZD 20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Discover the beauty of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll with the family.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Pedal Pusher

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at The Pedal Pusher, a popular spot for hearty meals and local craft beers.

NZD 35, 1 hour

Find Hotels in Christchurch

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Family-Friendly South Island Road Trip: Queenstown to Christchurch

Day 1: Adventure in Queenstown

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Exploring Te Anau and Milford Sound

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Wonders of Wanaka

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Discovering Franz Josef Glacier

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

7:00PM

Day 5: Scenic Drive to Punakaiki

9:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

4:00PM

7:00PM

Day 6: Journey to Christchurch

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Plan Your New Zealand south island from qeenstown to christchurch Trip