6-Day South Island New Zealand Itinerary: Nature's Best in a Campervan

Day 1: Journey to Te Anau

Te Anau, New Zealand on April 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Sugared Rush

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this cozy café known for its delicious baked goods and local coffee. Perfect to fuel your adventure ahead.
NZD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Te Anau

Set off on a scenic drive towards Te Anau, located approximately 170 km south of Nelson, offering beautiful landscapes.
NZD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Redcliff Restaurant and Bar

Try their famous fish and chips or locally sourced lamb. It's a great place to refuel after your drive.
NZD30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Take a guided tour to see the magical glowworms lighting up the caves, a unique natural wonder of New Zealand.
NZD90, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Te Anau Holiday Park

Settle into your campervan for the night with access to essential facilities and stunning views.
NZD60, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Fat Duck

Enjoy a relaxed dining experience featuring creative dishes crafted with local ingredients. Don’t miss their venison.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Milford Sound Excursion

Glenorchy, New Zealand on April 17, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at your campervan

Start your day with a simple breakfast you can easily prepare in your campervan while enjoying views of the lake.
NZD10, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Drive to Milford Sound

Leave early for Milford Sound (about 1.5 hours drive) to maximize your time at this breathtaking location.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Milford Sound Cruise

Embark on a stunning 2-hour cruise exploring the fiords, waterfalls, and wildlife of Milford Sound.
NZD99, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Milford Sound Café

Grab a quick bite while enjoying scenic views. The seafood chowder is a popular choice!
NZD25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Return Drive to Te Anau

Drive back to Te Anau, soaking in the breathtaking landscapes along the way.
NZD0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre

Stop by the visitor center for insights about the park and to view informative displays about the local flora and fauna.
NZD0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Drive to Glenorchy

Head to Glenorchy (approximately 45 minutes drive), which is known for its stunning natural beauty.
NZD0, 45 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Glenorchy Café

Enjoy a relaxed meal with options like homemade pie or gourmet sandwiches—perfect after a long day.
NZD30, 1 hour

7:30PM

Evening Stroll at Glenorchy

Take a peaceful evening walk along the lakefront, enjoying the stunning views as the sun sets.
NZD0, 1 hour
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Day 3: Exploring Lake Wanaka

Lake Wanaka, New Zealand on April 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the campervan

Enjoy breakfast at your leisure while taking in the stunning views of the mountains reflecting off the lake.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Lake Wanaka

Make your way to Lake Wanaka (approximately 1 hour drive), known for its clear blue waters and breathtaking scenery.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Wanaka Tree

Take a photo of the iconic 'Wanaka Tree', a weeping willow that is one of the most photographed trees in New Zealand.
NZD0, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Explore the Wanaka Lavender Farm

Stroll through rows of vibrant lavender and enjoy the scents. A café on-site offers delicious lavender-infused treats.
NZD10, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Cow Restaurant

Savor a rustic meal with pizza and pasta at this local favorite, reputed for its warm and welcoming atmosphere.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hike the Mount Iron Track

Embark on a scenic hike up the Mount Iron Track, offering panoramic views of Wanaka and the surrounding mountains.
NZD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Lake Wanaka Holiday Park

Park your campervan in this well-equipped holiday park and prepare for a restful night.
NZD55, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Lake Bar

Experience lakeside dining with fresh local fish and gourmet options while enjoying sunset views over the lake.
NZD40, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Mount Cook Adventure

Mount Cook, New Zealand on April 19, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the campervan

Enjoy breakfast in your campervan while soaking up the majestic mountain views around you.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Mount Cook

Travel to Mount Cook Village (around 2 hours) through stunning landscapes of the Southern Alps.
NZD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park Visitor Centre

Learn about the impressive natural history and alpine ecology of the park with informative exhibits.
NZD0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Hermitage Hotel

Delight in a warm meal at this iconic hotel with spectacular views over Aoraki. Their buffet is popular!
NZD45, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hike the Hooker Valley Track

Enjoy a beautiful 3-hour hike on the Hooker Valley Track leading you to stunning glacier views.
NZD0, 3 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at Mount Cook Village Campground

Settle at the campground just steps away from the stunning scenery and hiking trails.
NZD60, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at The Panorama Room

Indulge in a fine dining experience with locally sourced dishes while enjoying magnificent views of the mountains.
NZD70, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Serene Lake Tekapo

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand on April 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the campground

Fuel up in the fresh mountain air with a simple breakfast before heading out for a day of exploration.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Lake Tekapo

Enjoy a scenic drive to Lake Tekapo (approximately 1 hour), famous for its turquoise waters and stunning night skies.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd

Check out this historic church positioned beautifully against Lake Tekapo; it's a must-see landmark.
NZD0, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Explore the Tekapo Springs

Relax at the hot pools and enjoy activities like snow tubing or ice skating in winter.
NZD50, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Lake Tekapo Tavern

Enjoy locally sourced food like lamb shanks or delicious burgers in a cozy atmosphere.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Mount John Observatory

Take a guided tour at this renowned stargazing site to learn about the southern hemisphere’s night sky.
NZD20, 1 hour

3:30PM

Drive to Nelson

Begin your journey back to Nelson (approximately 3 hours), reflecting on your amazing adventures.
NZD0, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Styx

End your trip with a relaxing meal featuring delicious wood-fired pizzas and refreshing local beers.
NZD30, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Departure Day

Nelson, New Zealand on April 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the campervan

Enjoy your last breakfast amidst the beautiful scenery before packing up to leave.
NZD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Return Campervan

Return your campervan at the designated location, completing your New Zealand adventure.
NZD0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Nelson City

Take some time to visit local shops and art galleries in Nelson before you leave, enriching your trip.
NZD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Boat Shed

Savor seafood dishes and enjoy the lovely views of the port at this local dining gem.
NZD35, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Nelson Markets (open Sundays only)

Explore the local arts, crafts, and fresh produce at the popular Nelson Markets for a final souvenir.
NZD0, 1 hour
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