New Zealand South Island Winter Road Trip
Everyone loves a road trip! They’re fun, exciting, and lead to faraway destinations with all kinds of things to do and see. Travelers tend to think of road trips as a summer vacation, but why not expand your horizons? Winter in New Zealand is a great time to hit the road!
For the perfect New Zealand holiday, it’s tough to beat a South Island winter road trip. It’s filled with great places to see and lots of adventure — whether it’s skiing down snow-capped mountains or enjoying a glass of wine by a cozy fire. This region offers breathtaking scenery and memorable activities, so get your map out, and let’s get planning!
Planning the Perfect South Island Winter Road Trip
You might not know this, but New Zealand’s South Island is larger than the North Island. Despite its larger landmass, it’s home to a much smaller population. Where the North Island is more urban, the South Island is more rugged and wild. That sounds like an adventure!
So what is there to do on the South Island?
That’s a great question, and the answer is A LOT! The perfect road trip is more about the journey than the destination, but, hey, it never hurts to have a point on the horizon to aim toward. The following itinerary will let adventure-seeking traveler’s wind around the majority of the South Island and see some of its most interesting places but still leave plenty left unexplored for future visits!
South Island Winter Road Trip Itinerary:
Christchurch > Wanaka > Queenstown
South Island Road Trip Destination 1: Christchurch
The first stop on our trip is the South Island’s largest city — Christchurch! Not only is Christchurch the largest city on the South Island, but it’s also the oldest city in New Zealand. It was officially designated a city by Royal Charter on 31 July 1856. There’s tons of history here!
Things To See And Do In Christchurch
For more information about the area, we’ve also put together a detailed guide for the top things to do in Christchurch.
Riccarton House
Step back in time and experience the Victorian and Edwardian eras of the 19th century. Riccarton House is a grand homestead constructed in phases over nearly 50 years — from 1856 to 1900. This amazing historical landmark was home to the pioneering Deans family. Today the house is completely restored, decorated and furnished in period style and welcomes visitors daily.
Christchurch Avon River
This tram system is one of Christchurch’s most iconic attractions and takes passengers to stops such as the Canterbury Museum and Punting on the Avon — a sightseeing boat ride where guests sit in a small, flat-bottom boat and enjoy tours led by guides dressed in Edwardian clothing!
Where To Stay In Christchurch
Christchurch accommodation: Every destination needs top-notch accommodations! While you’re in Christchurch why not stay at the Seaside Cottage. With a beautiful established garden and a breath-taking view of Lyttleton harbour, this two-bedroom colonial-era cottage is the perfect spot for travellers looking to rest and relax by the ocean.
It is an historic home located on an iconic street, and is a beautiful example of 1870s colonial architecture. It features a lovely al fresco dining area with a view of the sea, as well as its own greenhouse.
South Island Road Trip Destination 2: Wanaka
After the rich history of Christchurch, it’s time to head to Wanaka — located in the heart of the beautiful Otago region of the South Island. The town of Wanaka is one of the most popular ski destinations in New Zealand, with pristine views of snow-covered mountains!
Things To See And Do In Wanaka
For more information about the area, we’ve also put together a detailed guide for the top things to do in Wanaka.
Mount Aspiring National Park
This gorgeous national park is the perfect place to kick off your Wanaka visit! It offers some of the best hiking trails in the Otago region. They generally take between 3-4 hours to complete and offer plenty of breathtaking scenery!
Cardrona Ski Resort
Just a short drive from Wanaka is the renowned Cardrona Ski Resort offering winter sports adventures of all kinds! Ski, snowboard, try snow tubing, or just hang out at the lodge! At night, take a guided stargazing tour. Outdoor fun is just the tip of the iceberg at Wanaka! Make sure you check out the restaurants, clubs, and shops as well!
Where To Stay In Wanaka
Wanaka accommodation: The Wanaka region offers lots of great places to hang your hat while visiting!
For your next trip to Wanaka, come stay at Lakeside luxury, with plenty of space and sleeping 10 people, this home is perfect for gatherings of friends and family.
Spend your days hitting the slopes in winter or travelling around sightseeing all the natural attractions before returning at the end of the day to relax and warm up inside.
Featuring open plan indoor living, kitchen and dining space Lakeside Luxury is great for spending time together. In the summer open up the sliding doors onto the outdoor decking and enjoy dining alfresco style and why not treat yourself to a barbecue!
South Island Road Trip Destination 3: Queenstown
Queenstown is a happening city and a sightseer’s dream! Located in the mighty Southern Alps, Queenstown gives travelers unparalleled access to stunning views and breathtaking landscapes.
Things To See And Do In Queenstown
For more information about the area, we’ve also put together a detailed guide for the top things to do in Queenstown.
The TSS Earnslaw
One of the best things to do on Lake Wakatipu is to cruise on the authentic steamship, the TSS Earnslaw. This coal-powered passenger vessel known as the “Lady of the Lake”, is the last of its kind. The cruise will bring you back to the days when the ship transported goods to remote lake settlements, but the real attraction is the stunning view of the snow-capped Southern Alps!
Kawarau Bungy Centre
Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand and is truly famed for its heart-stopping bungy jump attractions. Kawarau Bungy Centre was the world’s first bungy jump attraction and is widely regarded as the best. Do you have what it takes to make the dive?!
Queenstown offers so much more! From helicopter rides to white water rafting, you just can’t go wrong with this exciting destination!
Where To Stay In Queenstown
Queenstown accommodation: Queenstown has so many great places to stay it’s hard to pick just one, but for starters why not check out Arawata Lodge.
Just a five-minute drive away from the Queenstown City Centre, boasting picturesque views of the local landscape and enough space for the whole family. Welcome to Arawata Lodge!
Perfect for any season enjoy the open-plan living space with a wood-burning fireplace for a cosy winter ambience, or in the warmer months enjoy the fantastic outdoor space is equipped with a BBQ and an outdoor fireplace.
A fully equipped kitchen will ensure delicious meals can be made, then come together and dine alfresco while enjoying the fresh air and incredible vistas.
Must-See Day Trip Destination: Milford Sound
While you are headquartered in Queenstown, be sure to take a day and visit Milford Sound. The sound cuts through a spectacular fjord and is regarded by travelers as a highlight of any trip to the South Island. Its unmatched mountain views and scenery make Milford Sound a photographer’s dream!
Don’t miss Te Anau while you’re there. Te Anau is the closest town to Milford Sound and is famous for its Te Ana-au caves. These caves are home to a thriving glowworm population and make a glorious experience for visitors!
Get Ready for Your Adventure to the Great White South!
As you can see there are tons of adventures waiting for you on New Zealand’s South Island. The activities listed in this itinerary are just the beginning. Why not start planning your perfect trip now? One of the best ways to get started is to figure out exactly where you’ll be staying.
