Breathtaking Winter Road Trip In New Zealand's South Island

Day one of this ultimate 17-day South Island road trip starts at our maui Queenstown branch where you’ll be greeted by our friendly team as you pick up your pre-booked campervan hire. We’ll get you set up and ready for the road with everything you need to know about your camper. 

You’ll be able to take your time today as you enjoy a relaxed 1.5-hour drive to the alpine village of Wanaka. One of the (many) beautiful towns of the South Island, Wanaka is surrounded by captivating scenery. A must-do, while you’re here, is to see and photograph That Wanaka Tree. Make the most of your stay here by exploring some of the nearby walks and trails and enjoying the great eateries. For some indoor time, visit one of the largest private vehicle collections in the world at the National Transport and Toy Museum. This must-see museum houses over 600 vehicles, 20 aircraft and more than 60,000 toys! 

Put your feet up for the night at the Wanaka TOP 10 Holiday Park.

You’ll be heading back down State Highway 6 today as you make your way to Cromwell. If you’re passing through in early August, try to time your visit for the Light Up Winter event. Enjoy great street food and entertainment, a vibrant night market, and the sight of hundreds of glowing lanterns drifting into the sky. Cromwell has a history dating back to the gold rush days of the 1800s. Old gold mining sites in the area include Bannockburn and Bendigo, where you’ll find ruins of miners’ cottages. Today, Cromwell is better known for its fruit-growing industry. You may want to plan a return visit in summer when the roadside fruit stalls are brimming with colourful fresh fruits. Need to stock up the wine rack? We suggest a visit to Carrick Winery. Enjoy tasting their range of certified organic, estate-grown wines. Even better, book in for a wine tour and tasting. 

Enjoy a relaxing overnight stay at Bannockburn Domain Camping Ground.

Day three of your South Island road trip takes you to the lakeside town of Te Anau. Known as the gateway to Fiordland National Park, this picturesque township is a great spot to unwind and get back to nature. If you have time, you may like to plan a cruise through the Milford Sound (about 1.5 hours from Te Anau). But to make the most of your time here, we suggest exploring the Te Anau Glowworm Caves followed by a visit to the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary. 

Take in the best of Te Anau’s relaxed lakeside views with an overnight stay at the scenic Te Anau Lakeview Kiwi Holiday Park & Motels.  

Today you’ll be visiting New Zealand’s southernmost and westernmost city, Invercargill. This friendly city has lots on offer for campervan travellers, especially if you’re a motoring fan. Kick off your visit at Classic Motorcycle Mecca where you can see two of the bikes featured in The World’s Fastest Indian. Next, head to Bill Richardson Transport World where you’ll find a treasure trove of rare vehicles and nostalgia. While you’re in Invercargill, take a wander through Queens Park. This sprawling 80-hectare New Zealand Garden of National Significance features manicured gardens, a fantastic playground, and beautiful sculptures. 

Relax for the night at the Central City Camping Park.

The stunning little seaside village of Kaka Point is a prime spot for seeing some of New Zealand’s wildlife. One of the best vantage points is the iconic Nugget Point lighthouse. One of New Zealand's oldest lighthouses, it is easy to reach via a 20-minute return walk. The lighthouse overlooks 'the Nuggets', a set of rocks out at sea. Bring along your binoculars (and warm beanie) to see colonies of fur seals, penguins, and sea birds.

Relax and enjoy a quiet night at the Kaka Point Camping Ground.

The small fishing village of Moeraki is perhaps best known for its fascinating Moeraki Boulders. These huge spherical boulders each weigh several tonnes and measure up to two metres high. To see more of the natural beauty of Moeraki, take a walk along one of the Trotters Gorge tracks. Top off your day with a great meal at waterfront restaurant Fleurs Place – highly recommended by British television chef and restaurateur Rick Stein! 

Park up for the night at Moeraki Village Holiday Park.

Wake up nice and early today for the next leg of your road trip to the historic French village of Akaroa. It may be small, but Akaroa is brimming with fantastic activities and attractions. One of the must-dos is a visit to The Giants House. This spectacular attraction – and Garden of International Significance – has to be seen to be believed. Created by artist Josie Martin, the gardens feature whimsical huge mosaic artworks and sculptures, each blending in harmoniously amongst the roses, vegetables, citrus trees, and flowers.  

Put your feet up tonight at the Akaroa TOP 10 Holiday Park.

Today’s section of your South Island road trip takes you to Kaikoura, famous for its wonderful wildlife and seriously good seafood. Don’t miss the opportunity to see whales, dolphins, and seals on a whale-watching tour. Cruise out into New Zealand’s deepest marine reserve frequented by humpbacks, sperm whales, blue whales, southern right whales and more. 

Tonight, book into the Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park. 

Relax with a well-earned sleep-in this morning – take a day off driving to explore more of Kaikoura. Start your morning off with breakfast at Café Encounter. While you’re there, tick off a bucket list experience and book into a Dolphin Encounter. Kaikoura is one of the best places in the world to encounter dolphins in their natural environment. Watch from the comfort of a boat or get in the water and see these incredible mammals up close as they swim alongside you.

Stay another night at the Kaikoura TOP 10 Holiday Park. 

Feeling relaxed and ready for another big drive? Today you’ll be crossing from one side of the South Island to the other as you head to Westport. This coastal township sits near the mouth of the Buller River. It’s the West Coast’s oldest town and famous for its coal mining history. If you’re into surfing, Carters Beach and North Beach are both excellent options for all levels. If you fancy venturing a little further afield, check out Tauranga Bay for some epic breaks best surfed at low tide. To learn more about the history of Westport, head along to the Coaltown Museum. 

Park your campervan up tonight at Carters Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park.

The gateway to the Kahurangi National Park, Karamea is a natural wonderland of caves, bush walks, and beautiful coastline. One of the highlights here is the Heaphy Track which starts and finishes in Kohaihai, 16km north of Karamea. This picturesque track is one of New Zealand's Great Walks, winding its way through expansive tussock downs, lush forests and nīkau palms to the seas of the West Coast. Be sure to add the Oparara Arch to your must-do list while you’re in Karamea. This stunning limestone arch is said to be the biggest in Australasia. You can reach the arch by walking along the well-formed forest track – about 2 km return.

Relax in the beautiful nikau forest of the DOC Kohaihai Campsite.

Fancy walking in the treetops, beachcombing for greenstone, and watching an amazing sunset? It’s all waiting for you today as you head south to Hokitika. 

You may need to stretch your legs for a bit once you arrive. So we suggest taking the relaxing Hokitika Gorge Walk. This short 2 km loop leads along the gorge and through the lush forest of the scenic reserve. If you’re in the mood for something a little more adventurous, try the Hokitika Treetop Walk where you can stroll 20 metres above ground through the canopy of the West Coast rainforest treetops.  Top off your day with a visit to Hokitika Beach where you can scour the sand for New Zealand greenstone and enjoy fish and chips as the sun sets.

For a great spot to park up for the night, we suggest the Hokitika Holiday Park. 

Dig out your warmest jacket and beanie, today you’ll be hitting the ice! The Franz Josef Glacier area boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in New Zealand. Just 6 km from the centre of the Franz Josef village, the glacier is one of the most pristine places on earth and a must-see on your South Island road trip. After your icy experience, warm up with a soak at the Waiho Hot Tubs. Enjoy your own private tubs, nestled in a lush rainforest setting – bliss!

Once you’re warmed up and ready to rest, enjoy a good night’s sleep at the Franz Josef TOP 10

Fox Glacier rates as one of the best places to visit in the South Island. Like its twin, Franz Josef, the glacier descends from the Southern Alps down into temperate rainforest just 300 metres above sea level. For the best experience of the glacier, consider booking a scenic flight or ice-hiking experience. A fun night-time activity, while you’re here, is the Minnehaha Walk. Watch as sparkling glow worm grottos become visible in the thick rainforest alongside the track. Allow around 30 minutes for this loop walk and remember to bring a torch.

Park your campervan up for the night at Fox Glacier TOP 10

As you drive south today along State Highway 6 via Boundary Creek, you’ll be passing through more of the South Islands’ stunning landscapes. Stop for photos at The Neck which passes between Lakes Hawea and Wanaka. As you reach Lake Hawea, enjoy a stop to take in the vivid beauty of this region. From Lake Hawea township you can find an excellent walk by following Timaru River Road to Timaru Creek. Afterwards, treat yourself with an ice cream or takeaways and stock up on fresh produce at Hawea Store and Kitchen.

Park up lakeside at The Camp.

Today, you’re on your way back to familiar territory as you return to Wanaka. But with a short drive of just 15 minutes, there’s no hurry. So relax, enjoy a sleep in and have a lazy breakfast before heading off. Once you reach Wanaka, spend the day exploring the town and surrounding countryside. Wanaka has lots of great tracks and trails to enjoy. For an easy walk with spectacular scenery, try the Outlet Track. 

It's the last night of your epic road trip, so why not treat yourself to a great meal out? You can’t beat Tititea Steak House on Ardmore Street. This premium steakhouse is all about quality cuts and fresh local produce. We recommend the signature slow-roasted Te Mana lamb shoulder. 

Enjoy another night at the Wanaka TOP 10 Holiday Park

It’s the final day of your ultimate South Island winter road trip. Today you’ll be heading back to Queenstown. But there’s no rush. It’s a short one-hour drive so relax and take your time. Pick up a coffee and breakfast to go and enjoy it by the lake before you hit the road. 

It’s been an action-packed 17 days ticking off a long list of South Island bucket list activities. Your final stop is to drop your campervan back at maui’s Queenstown branch. While you’re there, have a chat with the friendly team about planning your next New Zealand itinerary – there’s plenty more to be had!

Inspired to take this epic South Island adventure? 

New Zealand’s South Island offers one magical landscape after another. A maui campervan holiday gives you the opportunity to see the best of it in total comfort and at your own pace as you enjoy the holiday of a lifetime. Maui’s range of premium, modern motorhomes have everything you need for a fully self-contained, comfortable winter holiday so why not book yours today?