Seven Dreamy Days

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The Journey

Jan and John take on the South Island

Going by camper for the first time, Jan and John spent seven dreamy days exploring the South Island in their maui campervan. Having the time of their life, they were excited to share their trip with us upon their return. They wanted to share their journey with us as, like so many others, they wondered why they hadn't taken the leap sooner and quickly saw there was nothing to fear about going by camper!

Travel

4-7 days


Route

Christchurch to Christchurch

1325km


Best Time of the Year

any time of the year

Highlights

Not bound by a schedule, we were able to take our time sightseeing etc. so couldn't say exactly how long it took us to travel the distances between each location each day.

The Journey

Days

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

Day 1
Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

Distance 243km - Driving Time 3 hours

Picked up our Campervan around 10.30am, and began our journey to Tekapo. Had a lunch stop in Geraldine and then travelled through the Tekapo Basin, catching a glimpse of Mt Cook in the distance. Spent time exploring the town of Tekapo, and a delightful visit to the famous and picturesque Old Church on the banks of Lake Tekapo.  We had a great spot at the Holiday Camp and watched the sunset from the comfort of our outdoor furniture that was included in our van package.  We also visited the Mt John Observatory….fantastic views of the whole Tekapo Basin from here.

Day 2
Lake Tekapo to Wanaka

Distance 202km - Driving Time 2.5 hours

We drove through to Wanaka today, and had a wonderful trip to Mou Wahu Island (bird Sanctuary) with Eco Tours, where we had a fantastic time with Chris our guide. He really knew his stuff and made the morning for us. The rest of the day was spent exploring Wanaka, where neither of us had been to for many years.

Day 3
Wanaka to Cromwell

Distance 60km - Driving Time 45 min

Left Wanaka and followed the Cluther River to Carrick Wines, near Cromwell -  where the hosts were fantastic. We enjoyed a stroll through the vineyard, learned about its history and got to sample some of their award winning wines. They supplied a fantastic basket of food for us to cook in our campervan, along with a bottle of their pinot. Breads, olives and oil, Fresh salmon, and salads, and a divine chocolate and strawberry tart to finish. Recommend highly!!

Day 4
Cromwell to Queenstown

Distance 60km - Driving Time 1 hour

Travelled the short distance to Queenstown, where we stayed at a rather quirky Holiday Park which is really centrally located. Walked into the town centre and spent a delilghtful few hours sightseeing. The next day we did the Earnslaw trip to Glenorchy Station. It was really worth it.

Day 5
Queenstown to Dunedin

Distance 285km - Driving Time 3 hours 40 min

A long trip with plenty to see on the way.  A highlight was the Yellow Eyed Penguins and the time spent at Larnach Castle.

Day 6
Dunedin to Akaroa

Distance 410km - Driving Time 5 hours

This was a great day. Spent time wandering among the Moeraki Boulders, followed by a fantastic and memorable at the famous Fluers Restaurant. Amazing menu, presentation and ambience. A truly memorable experience and I agree with Rick Stein, a must do! We also took a detour into the old historic part of Oamaru. It was quite magical and well worth a visit.

Day 7
Akaroa to Christchurch

Distance 81km - Driving Time 1.5 hours

Fantastic road trip, scenery is magical and once you come over the hill into the settlement. It's very beautiful. We went out on cruise to see if we could catch the Dolphins and we were very lucky. Mum's and babies frolicking around, very fortunate. Another highlight.