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New Zealand’s South Island is a road trip paradise, filled with dramatic landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, snow-capped mountains, and rugged coastlines. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery, a South Island road trip is the perfect way to experience it all.
Unlike guided tours or public transportation, traveling by campervan allows for complete flexibility. Wake up to a sunrise over Lake Tekapo, take a spontaneous detour to a hidden beach, or spend an extra day in Queenstown soaking in the views. With countless campsites and scenic stops, the South Island is best explored on four wheels—preferably with a bed and kitchen on board!
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan the perfect New Zealand South Island road trip, including the best itinerary, travel tips, and important considerations like petrol prices, grocery shopping, and internet access. By the end, you’ll be ready to hit the road and create the adventure of a lifetime.
Why Choose a Campervan for Your South Island Trip?
A campervan gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace without worrying about hotel bookings or strict schedules. With so many scenic spots to park overnight, a South Island campervan road trip is truly one of the best ways to experience New Zealand. Here’s why:
- Wake Up to Incredible Views – Whether parked beside a glacier, a lake, or a remote beach, you’ll always have front-row seats to nature’s beauty.
- Cost-Effective – Renting a campervan saves money on accommodation and dining, as you can cook your own meals and stay at budget-friendly campgrounds.
- Ultimate Flexibility – Want to stay an extra day in Milford Sound? No problem. See a hidden waterfall on the way to Wanaka? Pull over! A campervan lets you change plans on a whim.
- Immersive Experience – There’s nothing quite like driving along the winding roads of the South Island, with breathtaking landscapes unfolding at every turn.
How to Rent a Campervan in South Island
The first step to your adventure is finding the right campervan. New Zealand offers a variety of rental options, from budget-friendly vans to fully-equipped motorhomes with built-in kitchens and bathrooms. To find the best option, consider:
- Size & Features – How many people are traveling? Do you need a bathroom? A fully equipped kitchen?
- Freedom Camping vs. Campgrounds – If you plan on freedom camping (staying overnight in non-designated areas), your camper must be self-contained (certified with a toilet, water system, and waste storage).
- Pickup & Drop-off Locations – Most rentals are available in Christchurch or Queenstown, making them ideal starting points.
For campervan rentals and expert guidance on planning your route, visit Campervan New Zealand.
Things to Consider for Your South Island Road Trip
Petrol Prices & Budgeting for Fuel
Fuel costs in New Zealand can vary depending on the location, fuel type, and availability. In remote areas, petrol prices tend to be higher than in major cities like Christchurch or Queenstown. Here’s an overview of what to expect:
Current Fuel Prices (Estimated as of 2025)
| Fuel Type | Price per Liter (NZD) | Approx. Price per Gallon (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Unleaded 91 | $2.80 - $3.20 | $7.40 - $8.40 |
| Premium 95 | $3.00 - $3.50 | $7.90 - $9.20 |
| Diesel | $2.00 - $2.50 | $5.30 - $6.60 |
Fuel Cost Estimation for a 14-Day Road Trip
The following table provides a rough estimate of fuel costs based on an average campervan fuel consumption of 10-12 liters per 100 km.
| Route Section | Distance (km) | Estimated Fuel (L) | Cost (NZD, Unleaded 91) |
| Christchurch to Lake Tekapo | 225 km | 22 - 27 | $62 - $86 |
| Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook | 105 km | 10 - 13 | $28 - $42 |
| Mount Cook to Wanaka | 200 km | 20 - 24 | $56 - $76 |
| Wanaka to Queenstown | 70 km | 7 - 9 | $19 - $28 |
| Queenstown to Te Anau | 170 km | 17 - 21 | $48 - $67 |
| Te Anau to Milford Sound (return) | 240 km | 24 - 29 | $67 - $93 |
| Te Anau to Dunedin | 290 km | 29 - 35 | $81 - $113 |
| Dunedin to Lake Pukaki | 230 km | 23 - 28 | $64 - $91 |
| Lake Pukaki to Franz Josef | 400 km | 40 - 48 | $112 - $155 |
| Franz Josef to Punakaiki | 220 km | 22 - 26 | $61 - $84 |
| Punakaiki to Nelson | 270 km | 27 - 32 | $75 - $103 |
| Nelson to Kaikoura | 250 km | 25 - 30 | $70 - $97 |
| Kaikoura to Christchurch | 180 km | 18 - 22 | $50 - $71 |
| Total Estimated Cost | 2850 km | 285 - 342 L | $798 - $1,146 NZD USD 459 - 659 |
Ways to Save on Fuel:
- Use Apps: Gaspy helps find the cheapest fuel stations.
- Refuel in Cities: Prices are lower in Christchurch, Queenstown, and Dunedin compared to remote areas.
- Drive Efficiently: Avoid rapid acceleration and keep speeds moderate to reduce consumption.
Grocery Costs & Budgeting for Food
Supermarkets in New Zealand vary in price, with Pak’nSave generally being the most affordable, followed by Countdown and New World. Here’s a breakdown of common grocery items:
Estimated Grocery Prices
| Item | Price Range (NZD) |
| Bread (loaf) | $2.50 - $4.00 |
| Milk (2L) | $4.50 - $6.00 |
| Eggs (12-pack) | $6.00 - $9.00 |
| Cheese (1kg) | $10.00 - $18.00 |
| Chicken (1kg) | $12.00 - $16.00 |
| Beef Mince (1kg) | $15.00 - $22.00 |
| Pasta (500g) | $2.50 - $4.00 |
| Rice (1kg) | $3.50 - $6.00 |
| Fresh Veggies (per kg) | $4.00 - $10.00 |
| Coffee (200g) | $7.00 - $12.00 |
Estimated Grocery Budget for a 14-Day Trip
If cooking in your campervan, a realistic grocery budget for two people can be estimated as follows:
| Expense Category | Daily Cost (NZD) | 14-Day Total (NZD) |
| Breakfast Supplies | $10 - $15 | $140 - $210 |
| Lunch & Snacks | $15 - $25 | $210 - $350 |
| Dinner Supplies | $20 - $30 | $280 - $420 |
| Drinks & Miscellaneous | $5 - $10 | $70 - $140 |
| Total Grocery Cost | $50 - $80 |
$700 - $1,120 USD 402-644 |
Ways to Save on Groceries:
- Shop at Pak’nSave for the lowest prices.
- Buy in bulk to reduce overall costs.
- Cook in your campervan instead of dining out.
Internet & Maps
Mobile coverage can be patchy i rural areas, so downloading offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) is a must. SIM cards with unlimited data plans are available from providers like Spark, Vodafone, and 2degrees.
When to Plan Your South Island Road Trip
The South Island of New Zealand offers breathtaking landscapes, from fjords and mountains to stunning beaches and lush vineyards. The best time for a road trip in your campervan depends on the weather, road conditions, and the experiences you’re looking for.
Summer (December - February)
- Best for: Warm weather, long daylight hours, and outdoor adventures
- Average temperatures: 10-25°C (50-77°F)
- Daylight hours: 14-16 hours
- Road conditions: Excellent; all roads are generally open
Pros:
- Ideal weather for hiking, beaches, and camping
- Easy driving conditions with clear roads
- Festivals and events in full swing
- Great time for wildlife spotting (penguins, seals, dolphins)
Cons:
- Peak season = higher prices for rentals and accommodation
- Popular destinations can be crowded
- Sandflies can be bothersome in certain areas
Autumn (March - May)
- Best for: Fewer tourists, stunning autumn foliage, and lower prices
- Average temperatures: 5-20°C (41-68°F)
- Daylight hours: 10-13 hours
- Road conditions: Generally good, but occasional early snowfall in April-May
Pros:
- Spectacular autumn colors, especially in Central Otago
- Quieter roads and attractions
- Perfect time for wine tours
- More affordable accommodations and campervan rentals
Cons:
- Cooler temperatures, especially at night
- Increasing chance of rain in some regions
- Shorter daylight hours compared to summer
Winter (June - August)
- Best for: Snowy landscapes, winter sports, and fewer tourists
- Average temperatures: -3 to 10°C (27-50°F)
- Daylight hours: 8-10 hours
- Road conditions: Icy or snowy in alpine areas; some roads may require chains
Pros:
- Best season for skiing and snowboarding (Queenstown, Wanaka, Mt. Hutt)
- Fewer tourists = better deals on accommodation and rentals
- Crisp, clear days in many areas, especially the West Coast
- Stunning winter scenery with snow-capped mountains
Cons:
- Some remote roads and high passes may close due to snow
- Driving conditions can be challenging; chains may be required
- Colder temperatures and limited daylight
Spring (September - November)
- Best for: Mild weather, fewer tourists, and blooming landscapes
- Average temperatures: 5-18°C (41-64°F)
- Daylight hours: 10-14 hours
- Road conditions: Generally good, occasional snow in early spring
Pros:
- Vibrant spring blooms and lush green landscapes
- Warmer temperatures without peak-season crowds
- Waterfalls are at their most powerful due to melting snow
- Shoulder-season prices for accommodations and rentals
Cons:
- Weather can be unpredictable (some late snow or early rain)
- Roads in higher elevations may still have snow/ice in early spring
- Sandflies begin to reappear in some regions
Weather in South Island and Driving Conditions
Driving conditions in the South Island vary greatly depending on the season and region. Before starting a campervan road trip through South Island, always check the New Zealand Transport Agency website (NZTA) for real-time road updates and weather conditions.
Average Monthly Temperatures & Daylight Hours
| Month | Avg. Temperature (°C) | Avg. Temperature (°F) | Daylight Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 10-25 | 50-77 | 14-16 |
| February | 10-24 | 50-75 | 13-15 |
| March | 8-22 | 46-72 | 12-13 |
| April | 5-18 | 41-64 | 10-12 |
| May | 2-15 | 36-59 | 9-11 |
| June | -3-12 | 27-54 | 8-10 |
| July | -3-10 | 27-50 | 8-10 |
| August | -2-12 | 28-54 | 9-11 |
| September | 2-15 | 36-59 | 10-13 |
| October | 5-18 | 41-64 | 12-14 |
| November | 8-20 | 46-68 | 13-15 |
| December | 10-24 | 50-75 | 14-16 |
Road Conditions and Safety Tips by Season
| Season | Road Conditions | Driving Tips |
| Summer | Best conditions, all roads open | Watch for campervan traffic and sudden weather changes |
| Autumn | Generally good, but some high-altitude roads may start getting icy | Be cautious of rain and early snowfall in higher elevations |
| Winter | Snow, ice, road closures in alpine areas | Use snow chains or winter tires where required, drive slowly on icy roads, and check NZTA updates |
| Spring | Roads clear, but some higher-altitude areas may still have ice | Be cautious in mountain passes and check forecasts regularly |
Essential Driving Tips for South Island
- Check road conditions daily at NZTA.
- Use snow chains in winter if driving in alpine areas (e.g., Arthur’s Pass, Lindis Pass).
- Drive on the left side of the road.
- Watch for sudden weather changes, especially in mountain regions.
- Be prepared for winding roads and steep inclines, especially in Fiordland and the West Coast.
- Keep your fuel tank full – remote areas may have limited fuel stations.
- Watch for wildlife and livestock on rural roads, especially in early mornings and evenings.
Now you know just about everything you need for a road trip in South Island, right? Still, we believe you might need some help to make the most of your journey, worry not! Campervan New Zealand's got your back!Here's our 14-day road trip itineraries for the perfect trip!
14-Day South Island Road Trip Itinerary
A two-week road trip allows you to see the best of the South Island without feeling rushed. Here’s a detailed itinerary, complete with highlights, driving distances, and must-see stops.
Day 1: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo
Kick off your adventure in Christchurch, a city blending historic charm with modern vibrancy. Before heading inland, make a stop at Rakaia Gorge for breathtaking river views. Once you reach Lake Tekapo, unwind in the famous hot pools, visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, and at night, marvel at the starry skies of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve—one of the best stargazing spots in the world.
- Drive Time: ~3 hours (225 km)
- Highlights:
- Visit Christchurch’s vibrant city center
- Stop at Rakaia Gorge for breathtaking river views
- Soak in the hot pools at Lake Tekapo
- Stargaze at the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
Day 2: Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook National Park
Enjoy a scenic drive along the Lake Pukaki shoreline, where the mirror-like water reflects the Southern Alps. In Mount Cook National Park, tackle the iconic Hooker Valley Track, an easy yet rewarding hike with glacier views, suspension bridges, and New Zealand’s tallest peak, Aoraki/Mount Cook. Don’t miss the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, celebrating one of history’s greatest mountaineers.
- Drive Time: ~1.5 hours (105 km)
- Highlights:
- Hike the Hooker Valley Track (one of New Zealand’s best hikes!)
- Visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre
- Marvel at Aoraki/Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak
Day 3: Mount Cook to Wanaka
Say goodbye to Mount Cook and set off toward Wanaka, passing by more stunning Lake Pukaki viewpoints. Once in town, enjoy a relaxing stroll along Lake Wanaka’s shores or, if you're up for a challenge, hike Roy’s Peak for one of the most panoramic views in New Zealand.
- Drive Time: ~2.5 hours (200 km)
- Highlights:
- Visit Lake Pukaki’s famous blue waters
- Explore the charming town of Wanaka
- Hike Roy’s Peak for stunning panoramic views
Day 4: Wanaka to Queenstown
The drive to Queenstown is short but packed with incredible scenery. Stop by the Cardrona Hotel, one of the country’s oldest and most photographed pubs. In Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, take your pick of adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, or jet boating. For a more relaxed experience, take the Skyline Gondola up Bob’s Peak for breathtaking views over the city and surrounding mountains.
- Drive Time: ~1 hour (70 km)
Highlights:
- Stop by the famous Cardrona Hotel
- Try adventure sports like bungee jumping or jet boating
- Take the gondola up Bob’s Peak for stunning views
Day 5: Queenstown to Te Anau
Leave the buzz of Queenstown behind and head south to the peaceful town of Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Cruise across Lake Te Anau, and explore the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, where thousands of tiny lights twinkle in the darkness like a starry sky.
- Drive Time: ~2 hours (170 km)
Highlights:
- Cruise on Lake Te Anau
- Explore the Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Day 6: Te Anau to Milford Sound
One of the most scenic drives in the world awaits! The road to Milford Sound is packed with towering cliffs, waterfalls, and lush rainforest. Once there, hop on a fjord cruise to glide past the iconic Mitre Peak, spot seals and dolphins, and witness waterfalls plunging from sheer rock faces.
- Drive Time: ~1.5 hours (120 km)
Highlights:
- Take a scenic fjord cruise
- Spot seals, dolphins, and waterfalls
Day 7: Milford Sound to Invercargill
Take the Southern Scenic Route toward Invercargill, the southernmost city in New Zealand. Stop by Stirling Point, where the famous signpost points to destinations worldwide, and if you’re a Starbucks fan, visit the world’s southernmost Starbucks!
- Drive Time: ~3.5 hours (290 km)
Highlights:
- Drive the scenic Southern Scenic Route
- Visit Stirling Point and the world’s southernmost Starbucks
Day 8: Invercargill to The Catlins
This coastal stretch is full of hidden gems. Visit the Nugget Point Lighthouse for stunning ocean views and stop at Surat Bay, where you can often find sea lions basking on the beach.
- Drive Time: ~1.5 hours (120 km)
Highlights:
- See Nugget Point Lighthouse
- Watch sea lions at Surat Bay
Day 9: The Catlins to Dunedin
Head north to Dunedin, a city known for its Scottish heritage and stunning architecture. Tour Larnach Castle, the only castle in New Zealand, and challenge yourself to climb Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world.
- Drive Time: ~2.5 hours (160 km)
Highlights:
- Explore the historic Larnach Castle
- Visit the world’s steepest street, Baldwin Street
Day 10: Dunedin to Oamaru
Drive along the coast to Oamaru, a town famous for its Victorian architecture and quirky steampunk scene. Don’t miss the Moeraki Boulders, giant spherical stones scattered along the beach, and later, visit the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony to see the world's smallest penguins return home at sunset.
- Drive Time: ~1.5 hours (115 km)
Highlights:
- See the famous Moeraki Boulders
- Watch the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony
Day 11: Oamaru to Mount Cook Village
Return inland to Mount Cook Village for a second chance to explore its breathtaking scenery. If you missed it earlier, try hiking the Tasman Glacier Trail, where you’ll witness New Zealand’s longest glacier up close.
- Drive Time: ~3 hours (200 km)
Highlights:
- Hike the Tasman Glacier Trail
Day 12: Mount Cook to Hokitika
A long but scenic drive takes you to the West Coast. In Hokitika, visit the famous Hokitika Gorge, where the river’s turquoise waters look almost unreal. At night, venture into the glowworm caves for a magical experience.
- Drive Time: ~4.5 hours (315 km)
Highlights:
- See the Hokitika Gorge
- Visit glowworm caves
Day 13: Hokitika to Arthur’s Pass
Head into the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass, a stunning mountain pass with endless hiking opportunities. One must-do hike is the Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall, a powerful cascade that’s worth the short trek.
- Drive Time: ~2 hours (130 km)
Highlights:
- Hike Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall
Day 14: Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch
Wrap up your journey with a scenic drive back to Christchurch. If you have extra time, explore the Botanic Gardens, visit the Riverside Market, or simply relax before catching your flight home.
- Drive Time: ~2.5 hours (150 km)
- End of the journey!
New Zealand at its finest!
A South Island road trip is the adventure of a lifetime, offering some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. From the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo to the majestic fjords of Milford Sound, every day brings a new and unforgettable experience.
The best way to explore the South Island is by campervan, allowing for freedom, flexibility, and immersion in nature. Whether you’re seeking adventure, photography opportunities, or simply an escape into New Zealand’s stunning wilderness, a road trip here will leave you in awe.
Ready to start planning? Find the perfect campervan for your journey at Campervan New Zealand and hit the road for an unforgettable experience. The open roads of New Zealand’s South Island are calling!
