New Zealands South Island 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Christchurch to Kaikoura

  • Morning: Start the day with a visit to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Afternoon: Drive to Kaikoura (approximately 2.5 hours) and take a whale watching tour to see sperm whales, hector’s dolphins, orcas, and other marine life.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of Kaikoura’s many excellent restaurants.

Day 2: Kaikoura to Hanmer Springs

  • Morning: Take a scenic drive to Hanmer Springs (approximately 2 hours) and soak in the natural hot springs at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa.
  • Afternoon: Explore the charming town of Hanmer Springs, with its boutique shops and cafes.
  • Evening: Stay overnight in Hanmer Springs.

Day 3: Hanmer Springs to Lake Tekapo

  • Morning: Drive to Lake Tekapo (approximately 2.5 hours) and visit the Mt. John Observatory for stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
  • Afternoon: Take a scenic drive around the lake, stopping at viewpoints and taking in the breathtaking scenery.
  • Evening: Stay overnight in Lake Tekapo.

Day 4: Lake Tekapo to Wanaka

  • Morning: Drive to Wanaka (approximately 2.5 hours) and visit the famous Wanaka Tree, a willow tree standing alone on the lake’s edge.
  • Afternoon: Explore the town of Wanaka, with its many cafes, shops, and outdoor gear stores.
  • Evening: Stay overnight in Wanaka.

Day 5: Wanaka to Milford Sound

  • Morning: Drive to Queenstown (approximately 1 hour) and take a scenic flight to Milford Sound (approximately 45 minutes).
  • Afternoon: Take a boat tour of Milford Sound, viewing stunning waterfalls, glaciers, and wildlife.
  • Evening: Stay overnight in Queenstown.

Day 6: Queenstown to Fiordland National Park

  • Morning: Drive to Fiordland National Park (approximately 1.5 hours) and take a guided hike through the park’s beautiful trails.
  • Afternoon: Visit the iconic Lady Bowen Falls and take in the stunning scenery of the park.
  • Evening: Stay overnight in Queenstown.

Day 7: Queenstown to Christchurch

  • Morning: Drive back to Christchurch (approximately 5.5 hours) with stops at scenic viewpoints along the way.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens again, or explore the city’s many other attractions.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Christchurch before departing.

This itinerary provides a mix of scenic drives, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences, and is just one example of the many amazing things to see and do in New Zealand’s South Island.