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

Viewed by 249 travelers

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
Find Hotels in Te Anau

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
Find Hotels in Glenorchy

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
Find Hotels in Lake Wanaka

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
Find Hotels in Mount Cook

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
Find Hotels in Lake Tekapo

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
Find Hotels in Nelson
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