New Zealand is one of the most naturally stunning nations this beautiful planet has to offer. The best way to take advantage of all of its beauty is to explore the nation by car. It can be hard to narrow down which places to add to a New Zealand road trip, especially for the South Island. While there should be flexibility in every itinerary, here are 10 spots that are absolute musts on any New Zealand South Island road trip.
10 Queenstown
Queenstown is the adrenaline capital of the world. If you're an adventure junkie, it's absolutely worth spending at least a day or two here. It's also likely that your flight will be into Queenstown or Christchurch, and therefore, it just makes sense to spend some time exploring the city. Here, you can venture into things such as bungee jumping, skydiving, or riding the world's largest swing, The Nevis Swing.
9 Christchurch
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There's a good chance your flight into New Zealand's South Island will be into Christchurch. If this is the case, take a day or two to explore properly. Christchurch offers attractions such as The International Antarctic Center, Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, and plenty of markets, shops, and parks. If you're not ready to rent a car yet, take advantage of the city's efficient tram.
8 Roy's Peak
Roy's Peak is one of the more popular hikes on the South Island, many thanks to its ridiculously stunning views. The hike can be a bit of a challenge, with a steep incline upward, but you'll be rewarded with lush green mountaintops paired against milky blue waters. You might even make an animal friend or two along the way; there are plenty of sheep and bunnies that hang out on Roy's Peak. The hike, in total, takes around 7 hours. Bring a lot of water and some trail mix to fuel your energy.
7 Wanaka
Wanaka is a magical little town that is incredibly friendly for camping. Seek out Wanaka Willow, better known by the internet as #ThatWanakaTree. Listen to the waves crash at Lake Wanaka, New Zealand's fourth-largest lake. Frollic through lavender fields and purchase lavender-tinted lotions to take home. There are also some wineries to get a proper glass or bottle of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.
6 Mount Cook
Mount Cook is New Zealand's highest mountain, and the views driving up to Aoraki/Mount Cook region will do anything but disappoint. There are some great trails to explore in the Mount Cook region. An easier one is the Hooker Valley track, with almost no incline but rewarding views at the end. The best part is there are several campgrounds located within the region so that you can wake up to the impeccable views of Mount Cook's peak.
5 Glacier Helicopter Ride
If you're looking for something totally unique to New Zealand, taking a glacier helicopter ride might be worth the splurge. The prices often start at around $300/per person, but it's an unforgettable experience that's worth spending the money on if you have it. Fly high over the icy views of one of South Island's many glaciers. This tour on Viator offers a good deal on Franz Josef Glacier helicopter rides.
4 Lake Pukaki
New Zealand has so many lakes, all beautiful in their own right, but one of the most stunning is the aqua-studded waters of Lake Pukaki. The lake gives off a bright blue hue due to glacial remnants in the water as a result of glacier erosion. The bright blue hue does not look like real water; it really looks like someone maxed out the "vibrant" setting in photoshop. You just have to see it to believe it.
3 Lake Tekapo
Much more popular than Lake Pukaki is Lake Tekapo. Also bright blue in hue, Lake Tekapo is a popular swimming and camping destination for tourists and locals alike. The town surrounding the lake has plenty of spots to grab some proper makuna honey, as well as a scoop of the famous New Zealand hokey-pokey ice cream. Hokey pokey is vanilla ice cream studded with small chunks of honeycomb. How's that for something sweet?
2 Milford Sounds
Milford Sounds is a fiord all the way toward the bottom of the South Island. Many people choose to explore its beauty by boat. However, there are plenty of campgrounds in the area for you to add to your road trip. Explore one of the many waterfalls, trek through its lush rainforest, and be prepared to see wildlife such as seals, penguins, and even dolphins. Milford Sounds can feel like you're at the end of the earth because, well, you kind of are.
1 Wineries In Otago
There's no better way to round up a New Zealand road trip than at a winery! Of course, make sure your car is parked for the night before indulging in vino. New Zealand produces some of the world's best wines, and a great spot to snag a bottle or two is a winery in Otago. The New Zealand legal drinking age is 18, so as long as you're at least 18 years old, you're in the clear to enjoy responsibly. Misha's Vineyard makes a great Pinot Noir, Wooing Tree makes a crisp Pinot Gris, and Desert Heart Estate offers an irresistible Chardonnay while overlooking their stunning vineyards. No matter which winery you choose, you're bound for some good vino.