Planning a 10-day adventure to New Zealand’s South Island—or even longer? You’ve come to the right place. In this guide, I’ll share where to go, what to do, and how much to budget for a mid-range, wellness-conscious traveler. 

New Zealand’s South Island holds a very special place in my heart. It was my recovery trip– the “final boss” of my panic disorder, so to speak. For a long time, I believed this destination was beyond my reach. But I made it, and in return, I was rewarded with the stunning beauty and culture of one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations.

There are so many ways to see NZ– by camper-van, by hostel, by hotel. For myself, I needed a clean, working toilet, wifi, and a quiet place to lay my head to keep my mental and physical health at optimal levels– but I’m still a girly on a budget. Below you’ll find a detailed itinerary for the perfect South Island expedition.

Below You’ll Find

• A detailed itinerary for a 10-day trip through New Zealand’s South Island

• Top activities at each location

• Where to stay 

• Where to eat 

• Wellness tips for your travels

HOW LONG TO SPEND

7 days is the absolute minimum to experience all that the South Island has to offer, but that’s only if you’re happy moving at a non-stop pace (I’m not). 10-14 days would be much more ideal.

Many travelers make New Zealand a month-long excursion: 2 weeks in the north and two weeks in the South. But for those of us with limited time, 10 days in the South Island was just enough to truly experience it.

If you have anywhere from 10 days to 3 weeks, follow my itinerary below. I’ll include additional locations to add to longer itineraries.

When to Go

I suggest visiting during the shoulder seasons in Spring and Fall to avoid crowds– March-May or September-November. That being said, it depends on your preferences. If you’re a snowbunny, Queensland has primo powder. Summer brings nicer weather and swimming opportunities, but way more camper vans and crowds. Keep in mind that New Zealand’s seasons are flipped from the Northern hemisphere! We went in April, which is prime fall in NZ.

HOW TO GET AROUND

There are so many options for traveling around New Zealand, but I personally recommend renting a car. If you’re coming from North America (aka right-side drivers), you’ll have to learn to drive on the opposite side of the road, which was initially horrifying but we adapted quickly!

Renting a car allowed for much more flexibility in terms of travel. The South Island is known for its natural beauty, which is spread out across the entirety of the country and most easily accessed via car. Public transit is available, but limited and less reliable. Ubers are also easily accessible in the cities, but rack up fast. 

If driving is impossible, there are day tours available from all major cities that cover transport completely.

FLIGHT OPTIONS

LAX offers direct flights into Auckland, then a short, second flight over to Christchurch. If you’re flying internationally to the South Island, you will almost certainly have a layover in Auckland first. If you have extra time, by all means, spend a few days in town! With 1.7 million people, it’s the biggest city in all of New Zealand and there’s plenty to keep you busy. 

If available, opt to fly Air New Zealand on your international flight. They offer the SkyCouch—an economy option that allows you to purchase an entire row of seats that convert into a “bed”. For a few hundred dollars extra, you (and a partner, in my case), can guarantee traveling without anyone in the dreaded middle-seat. 

It’s a tight squeeze for two to lie down, as these are regular economy rows with regular economy seats (no extra leg-room), but having the ability to lie flat in any capacity was priceless. We were actually able to sleep on the plane. 100% worth the extra expense.

Plus, you get to figure out how to wear the CUDDLE belt.

HOW MUCH TO BUDGET

New Zealand is worth every penny, but the expense is a necessary consideration. Coming from Los Angeles, New Zealand’s South Island teeters the affordability line. Though not the cheapest country to visit, it’s still totally accessible on a mid-range budget. Some expenses surprised us with how low their rates were, including our rental car and our Christchurch airbnb.

Following this itinerary, expect to pay around 1,800$ per person for a 10-day stay (not including airfare). Airfare will vary depending on your country of origin. Our flights were 1,000$ each plus an additional 250$ each for the Skycouch. 

That being said, many backpackers and budget travelers move through New Zealand for much cheaper, choosing hostels or camper-vans to keep costs low. That being said, I would not skim from your activities budget– New Zealand is a country to experience, hands-on. 

GENERAL WELLNESS INFO

As someone who, at the time of this trip, was experiencing high levels of anxiety, NZ was a welcome destination. You may already know New Zealand gets a 10/10 on the chill scale. Though you’ll visit two major cities on this itinerary, they are not population-dense. I always suggest visiting during the shoulder seasons to avoid crowds, but even if that’s not possible, it’s unlikely you’ll feel too much overcrowding (the only exception, perhaps, being the Queenstown city center).

On the South Island, beautiful scenery is a constant, with the majority of experiences communing with nature– it’s grounding, soothing, and all around good for wellbeing. On this note, please keep this land beautiful and keep it trash-free. Respect local signs and regulations.

Kiwis are notoriously friendly, and I found that to be true at every single stop we made throughout their beautiful country!

MAP OF OUR ITINERARY

10 DAY ITINERARY

Quick Overview

2 days – Christchurch

1 day – Kaikoura

2 days – Road Trip (stay the night at Lake Tekapo)

3 days – Queenstown

1 day – Fiordland National Park

1 day – Arrowtown/Queenstown

day 1: ChristCHURCH

How Long to Stay : 2 days

Christchurch is an ideal landing spot on the South Island due to its central location. For this trip, we only went South from here. Christchurch is a vibrant but small city with so much character– in part due to the temporary fixtures put in place after the devastating 2011 Earthquake. Rebuilding is still in full-swing, but the streets are lively with murals and temporary art fixtures.

After landing in Christchurch, you’ll want to pick up your rental car ASAP. Allot enough buffer time to re-teach yourself how to drive (an hour should be plenty). Though Christchurch is a city, the drivers are relaxed and the streets are easily navigable.

morning – Botanic Gardens

The likelihood of jetlag is high– hit the ground running, but not too fast. The Botanic Gardens as your first stop is ideal because a) it’s stunning and b) when you’re tired, just have a sit. You’ll see tourists and locals here alike enjoying the serenity. I sat on a bench for at least an hour just admiring.

Bring yourself a coffee and a pastry and enjoy a leisurely walk, including a stop at one of the garden’s most treasured stops– the greenhouse. Brimming with exotic plants and unusual blooms, it was the highlight of the gardens for me.

AFTERNOON – International ANTARCTIC CENTER

For some, this may not be a must-do, but we had an absolute hoedown at the International Antarctic Center! It’s part educational, part kitsch, and it will help you keep the energy up on the first day. New Zealand is one of the closest habitable landmass to Antarctica, and it’s the stop most travelers make before continuing the trek beyond. Penguins make this journey, too (and you better bet they make an appearance at the museum)! It’s a ton of fun.

day 2: Christchurch

Morning : Central Ward

Explore the Central Ward and the Cardboard Cathedral. Crafted as a temporary replacement after the 2011 Earthquake, the Cardboard Cathedral mimics the original and is a spectacle in its own right. 

Stop by the Canterbury Museum, a cultural and natural history museum with rich exhibits on Māori culture. The Māori people are the stewards of this land and understanding their heritage is key to fully appreciating the island’s history and identity. There are fewer opportunities on the South Island to learn about Maori culture than there are on the North Island, but you can check out a few other options here.

If you’re craving one more stop this morning (though I was museum-ed out by this point), the Quake City Museum showcases the story of the Earthquake that nearly destroyed the city. New Zealand resides on a powerful fault-line and there will be more to come (as an Angelino, this speaks to me).

Afternoon : Views and shopping

Hop on the Christchurch Gondola for panoramic views of the city. On a nice day (and even on some not-nice days) you can see all the way out to the ocean. If you’re looking to save some cash, however, consider driving out to Cracroft Reserve instead, where you can admire similar views from the lookout absolutely free. It’s also a charming neighborhood to meander through.

For shopping, head out of the city center and explore the lovingly restored Tannery. Originally a tannery (as the name so aptly describes) it now houses a variety of boutique shops with locally crafted items as well as cafes and thrift shops.

Where to eat

• Mince Pies from Dairies. Trust me, they’re incredible. Stop by any Dairy– aka a convenience store– and buy yourself a meat pie… you won’t be disappointed. Think chicken-pot-pie but better. We had one every single day we were in New Zealand– I wish I were joking!!

• 5^th Street Restaurant for dinner or drinks. Beautiful ambiance with skylights, hanging lamps, and elevated cocktails.

• Hello Sunday for brunch. Another local favorite and certified plant-haven. Cozy up in the greenhouse and enjoy a hearty meal. Plan ahead for weekend brunch– it gets busy!

• C4 for coffee and light bites. Hands down the best coffee we had in all of New Zealand. This is a must-stop. Order a flat white and the carrot cake.

• Winnie Baggoes for a savory slice of pizza.

• Fish and Chips anywhere!

Where to Stay

Airbnbs are a popular and cost-effective option in New Zealand, far less expensive than in the United States. Christchurch is a much cheaper city to stay in than, say, Queenstown. You’ll be able to find good options for under 100$ a night.We stayed here, a central stand-alone home. It was comfortable, well-designed, and incredibly convenient to get around. We paid around 100$ a night plus a cleaning fee.

DAY 3: KAIKOURA

HOW LONG TO STAY: 1 DAY

morning and afternoon: day trip and dolphin encounter

On day three, embark on a day trip to Kaikoura. The town is renowned for its marine-life, visible very close to shore thanks to a deep and dramatic ocean shelf. One of the most beloved experiences here is swimming with the Dusky Dolphins out in the open ocean. This is a must-do for animal-lovers or even just animal-likers. 

The dolphins interact naturally, without being lured by food. Watching them speed around us, launch themselves into the air, and perform their amazing aerial flips was breathtaking (and not just because the water is freezing year-round).

Kaikoura is about a two-hour drive from Christchurch, though you should plan extra time to stop along the scenic marine reserve where you can admire fur seals basking on the rocks. You may even spot Sperm Whales and Albatross from the roadside.

You can purchase tickets directly through Encounter Kaikoura.

Return to your Airbnb in Christchurch tonight!

Wellness Tip: For those prone to seasickness, I highly recommend using a patch or motion sickness medication (consult your doctor for the best option). The open ocean can be very choppy, and many were sea-sick during our trip (I’m talking heads in buckets), so plan ahead!

Wellness Tip: The water was freezing in April. Even though we were in head-to-toe wetsuits, I’m confident I experienced mild hypothermia for several hours afterward (see me below, blanket on, heat blasting). Consider your medical history and/or time of year before participating! That being said, I would 100% do it again.

DAY 4: ROAD TRIP TO LAKE TEKAPO

How long to stay: 1 night

One of the most iconic road trips in New Zealand is the journey from Christchurch to Queenstown. This quintessential trek is another reason I implore anyone staying in New Zealand to rent a car. You don’t want to miss out on these spectacular views. 

As a straight shot, the drive is 5-6 hours, but most people break it up by at least one day (and many extend it much further than that). We will be doing this road trip over the course of two days.

On your first day, set your sights on Lake Tekapo, about 3 hours Southwest from Christchurch. The first hour is uneventful as you exit the city, but once you hit Geraldine, the landscapes transform dramatically. Expect rolling, sheep-strewn hills, mountain vistas, and turquoise lakes.

morning and afternoon: To Lake Tekapo!

Pitstop in Geraldine. Geraldine is a quaint, historical town. It’s your introduction, and convergence spot, as you head to many beautiful landmarks ahead. It’s great for a short stop, and popular for many travelers for lunch, however, I suggest traveling a little out of the way to Fairlie Bakehouse instead. It’s located in another charming town with superior minced pies and sandwiches. 

Lake Tekapo. The first of many sights that will take your breath away, make sure to stop along one of the many picturesque viewpoints to soak in the striking, teal-blue waters of Lake Tekapo. If you’re arriving on a rainy day (like we did), fret not– though the waters may not be as teal, the lake will be near silent, less populated, and oh-so serene. 

Lake Tekapo Springs. Unwind in the hot springs, a series of thermal pools where you can relax while still taking in the views. Expect to share the space with plenty of others, particularly on a chilly day. It’s a wonderful, unpretentious place to relax and soothe your muscles.

Lake Tekapo is part of the Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of the best spots in the world for Stargazing. Not only is it great viewing, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to learn about Maori astronomy. 

Lake Pukaki Lookout. A short 30-minute drive from Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki offers similar mesmerizing turquoise waters combined with views of Mount Cook.

Hike.  Both Tekapo and Pukaki offer fantastic hiking opportunities in the surrounding area. Most popular are: Mount John Summit Track, Lake Tekapo Lakeside Walk, Cowans Hill, and the Mount Pukaki Lookout Track.

Where to stay

Lake Tekapo is an expensive stop due to its beauty, remoteness, and proximity between cities (it’s the perfect half-way mark). If you’re looking for a place to splurge, this area offers several high-end resorts and luxury Airbnbs to choose from. 

For a moderately priced accommodation, I recommend Haka House. It strikes a balance between an upscale hostel and a mid-range hotel, offering beautiful views of the area. Be sure to book a private room. Expect to pay anywhere between 60-150$ per night despite the hostel name-tag, with prices increasing for more luxurious stays.

DAY 5 – ROAD TRIP through mt. cook + wanaka

HOW LONG TO Stay – 1 DAY

The second leg of your road trip is an unending display of views. There is so much to see, that I highly recommend you take an extra night/day in Mount Cook if you have any time to spare. But if time is limited (as it was for me), you can pack it all into one big excursion! It will require starting early in the morning from Lake Tekapo and arriving later in the evening to Queenstown.

morning – mount cook

The drive from Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook, also known as Airaki, takes about an hour. Mount Cook is the tallest mountain in New Zealand– a beautiful, snowy peak with accompanying icebergs if you’re lucky. And, of course, continuous views of those teal blue lakes. Plan to spend about 3 hours here.

• Hooker Valley Track. One of the most popular and scenic hikes in the area. The full track takes about 3 hours, but you can shorten as you see fit. The first spring swing bridge offers fantastic views of Mount Cook and it’s a good turnaround point.

• Tasman Glacier Lake. Worth the very short walk to get to the viewpoint—you can often see icebergs floating on the lake.

• Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Center. If you’re a history buff or interested in learning more about mountaineering, this stop is for you.

• Mt. Cook Alpine Salmon Shop. Incredible, fresh salmon. Make sure you hit it on the way out (you’ll pass it on your way to Wanaka near Lake Pukaki). Have an icebox prepared!

AFTERNOON – WANAKA

By the early afternoon, you’ll want to make your way to Wanaka. It’s a 2.5 hour drive from Mt. Cook. Plan to make it to Wanaka before the sun sets– you won’t want to miss the kaleidoscope of colors. A pit-stop in Wanaka is fine for dinner and sunset, but you could easily add another night here, too!

• Stroll along the lakefront at Sunset. Trust me on this. The magnificent purples and pinks set against the mountain backdrop was unbeatable. One of the most colorful, picturesque sunsets I’ve ever seen.

• Admire “That Wanaka Tree”. Touristic, but easily accessible and worth a quick stop. Don’t bother taking pictures here at sunset as it will be overrun. Venture further down the lake for less hustle and bustle, with equally glorious views.

• Wine tasting. If you’re not hitting the road immediately (or you have a generous designated driver), Wanaka is a beloved wine region and the perfect place to stop for a glass. Known for its high quality Pinot Noirs and Pinot Gris wines, thanks to Wanaka’s particular climate, both the white and red lovers will find something to drink.

End your road trip in Queenstown!

DAY 6: QUEENSTOWN

How Long to Spend: 3 days

Believe the hype about Queenstown; 360 views as far as the eye can see. Nestled along Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Southern Alps, Queenstown is a happening resort town that’s popular year-round. It’s known as the adventure capital of the world, and there really are an infinite amount of mild to extreme activities available to you.

morning – SKYLINE QUEENSTOWN

Take the Queenstown Gondola (aka the Skyline Queenstown) to a spectacular vista point at Bob’s peak. Opt to take the Sky Luge back down the mountain. This was such an unexpected blast, we did it twice!

For the true adventure seeker, the Skyline is also where you access GForce Paragliding. They’ll be hard to miss– you’ll see countless people floating above you in their iconic orange parachutes. If you’re wanting to take it a little less extreme, stop by the Kiwi Birdlife Park instead.

aFTERNOON – DOWNTOWN

Unlike most other places on our itinerary, Central Queenstown has an immense amount of options within a 10 block radius. There are a delightful array of stores and eateries backed together along the shore of Lake Wakatipu. It’s the perfect spot to pick up some souvenirs. Pop in to Patagonia Chocolates for their famous hot cocoa while you’re at it– there will be a long line but it moves fast and it’s worth it.

DAY 7: QUEENSTOWN

MORNING – BIKING

Officially, the Queenstown trail is about 86 miles all the way around– this extensive network of trails connects Queenstown, Arrowtown, and Gibbston Valley. Rent bikes (or consider Airbnbs that include bikes– many of them to!) and start your journey wherever you prefer along the trail. We stayed along lake Wakatipu, but it’s popular to bike out to Arrowhead for brews and food.

AFTERNOON – ARROWTOWN

Spend an hour or two grabbing coffee and wandering around historic Arrowtown. In the fall, the whole village was plucked right from the set of Gilmore Girls (if they had a New Zealand moment). If your trip takes place during New Zealand’s fall (March-May), Arrowtown is a do-not-miss for fall foliage. 

Stroll through downtown. Admire the many heritage buildings, boutiques, and souvenir shops in this historic Gold-rush town. As a Californian, it was fascinating to hear about another country’s experience with the Gold Rush.

Go on a Self-guided tour of the Chinese Settlement. During the Goldrush, Arrowtown was home to a significant Chinese immigrant community. This site provides a poignant insight into the lives and challenges (re: racism) faced by these early settlers.

Wine-tasting at Mora Winse. My favorite winery in the area with fantastic charcuterie boards. If you only go to one winery in Queenstown, let it be Mora Wines!

DAY 8 – QUEENSTOWN

MORNING: RELAX OR GO WILD

Queenstown is known for both big adventure and big relaxation. Onsen Hot Pools are quintessential Queenstown relaxation. It’s definitely a splurge so proper mid-budgets may want to opt out. The Onsen baths are highly popular, offering private hot tubs with gorgeous views. Of course, additional spa treatments are available if you’re willing to fork out the dough. Make sure to book well in advance (over a month!) as they book up fast.

If you prefer more adrenaline, consider one of the absorbent adventurous options including: bungee jumping from the Kawarau Bridge, skydiving, the Shotover Canyon Swing (for a mid-level bungee jumping option), jet boating (the shotover jet is popular), or hiking the Ben Lomond Track.

AFTERNOON – STEAMSHIP CRUISE

In the late afternoon/early evening, take a steamship cruise from Queenstown to Walter Creek Farm. Go with a tour (like this one) or on your own and enjoy a meal, petting animals at the farm, and watching a live sheep demonstration. The highlight is taking the TSS Earnslaw across the lake at sunset, followed by a beautiful, starry night.

Wellness tip: If you’re feeling exhausted, best to take this afternoon and evening as a rest moment. Tomorrow is a long day and you will need your energy.

Where to eat

• Patagonia Chocolate. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, stop by for one of their world famous hot chocolates. They also sell fantastic ice-cream and other chocolate treats.

• Fergburger. The most famous restaurant in Queenstown, known around the world and showcased on countless travel shows. For that reason, expect a long line (tip: mobile order ahead of time and set for pick-up). The experience didn’t change my life, but it’s a damn good burger and important to do once.

• Saigon Kingdom. Because of New Zealand’s proximity to Southeast Asia, the Asian delicacies are top notch. Saigon Kingdom is top of the list.

• Pedro’s House of Lamb. A cheap staple that offers a HARDY meal. If you’re looking for delectable meat (and lots of it) this is your stop.

WHERE TO STAY

Queenstown has an infinite number of hotels, Airbnbs, and hostels to choose from, depending on your budget. We opted to stay in an Airbnb slightly outside of town for more of a quiet, relaxed atmosphere. I highly suggest picking an Airbnb or hotel with a hot tub (ideally with views of the lakes), especially if you’re not splurging on the Onsen.

We stayed here and absolutely loved it. It was also right along the main bus route, so we didn’t have to worry about driving our car into the city center and dealing with parking. We paid about 200$ per night + tax and cleaning fee.

DAY 9: MILFORD SOUND

HOW LONG TO SPEND: 1 NIGHT in Te Anau

Hailed as one of New Zealand’s most iconic national wonders, Milford Sound is a popular day-trip tour from Queenstown. That being said, it was a very long day, about a 4 hour bus-ride one way, not including stops. 

Mildford Sound, located in Fiordland National Park, is known for towering granite cliffs, lush rainforests, and waterfalls that cascade into, you guessed it, teal blue water!!  Rain or shine (but most likely rain), the fjords are must-see. I was worried as we visited on a particularly rainy day, but it only intensified the power of the waterfalls.

There’s a lot of hype around the Fiordlands, with tourists coming from all over. That being said, if there’s only one thing you choose to do on the South Island, make sure it’s this.

Wellness tip: My biggest blunder of this trip was not spending at least one night in nearby Te Anau. Located much closer to Fiordland, it cuts your travel time in half and allows more time to explore the national park. While we took a tour bus from Queenstown and back in one day, it was simply too much. My body was spent by our return home. Plenty of tours leave out of Te Anau, make sure you check it out and shoot for one full day at the park if you can (if not more).

MORNING AND AFTERNOON – FIORDLAND NATIONAL PARK

If you opt for the day-trip, your experience on Milford Sound will most likely revolve around a 2-3 hour boat tour. This is the main (and most popular) activity to do at Milford Sound. You’ll almost certainly see wildlife, particularly bottlenose Dolphins that swim alongside the boats.

To experience the otherwordly majesty of the Milford Sound is without a doubt one of the best experiences we had in New Zealand. Whether you’re only here a few hours or several days, a boat cruise should not be missed.

Wellness Tip: You will most likely get wet on this cruise! The mist from the waterfalls, plus any wind/rain combo guarantees dewey hair and clothes. Bring your rain gear if you’ve got it. And if you’re sensitive to sitting in wet clothes, you might even consider bringing a spare for after the journey.

If you’re staying in the area more than a few hours, I suggest:

• Visit Doubtful Sound. Just as beautiful as Milford with far fewer crowds, partially because the trek to get there is lengthy (a drive, followed by a boat ride, followed by a bus ride over the Wilmot Pass). It naturally deters some visitors, making the Doubtful Sound a much more serene and connecting choice. Note that visiting the Doubtful Sound usually includes an overnight stay (either in Te Anau, camping in Fiordland National Park, or staying on a boat with a tour). I do not suggest making this a day trip from Queenstown!!

• Kayak, Hike, or Fish the Milford Sound. Go on a kayaking tour (allowing you to get close to waterfalls and wildlife), Hike the Milford Track (one of New Zealand’s “great walks”), or take a guided fishing tour on the sound (available for all skill-levels).

• Milford Sound Underwater Observatory. If you’re a science-head, make sure to make a pit-stop. You’ll only need about an hour. Note that only certain boat tours include this stop (at the time we traveled, it was Southern Discovery).

day 10: RETURN to queenstown

If you stayed overnight in Te Anau (again, I HIGHLY recommend this), your final day will include some driving on your return back to the city.

MORNING – THE JOURNEY BACK

I recommend grabbing breakfast in Te Anau, and hitting the road by mid-morning. It should only take you a little over two hours to get back to Queenstown. That way you have the whole afternoon to revisit any spots (or new spots) you’re wanting to hit. If you haven’t popped by Arrowtown, it’s worth the stop on your way back!

afternoon – lake hayes

If you’re anything like me, the last day of a trip comes with BIG feelings. When I can, I try to curate my final day to have some breathing room to reflect. The most perfect place to do this is at Lake Hayes (seriously, this is the place I think of when I meditate now, no matter where I am in the world). The lake as multiple viewpoints and trails along the shoreline.

It’s a perfect, quiet little pitstop. Enjoy grand views of the water and surrounding mountains. While we visited, there were very few people around– it felt like we had the whole world to ourselves. You could easily spend an afternoon here or just a few minutes.

Where to eat

As previously mentioned, MORA WINES is a must-stop for a glass and light bites. If you didn’t make it before, do so now!

For a splurge on your final night, opt for KOBE for dinner. A sushi/sashimi restaurant in the middle of a resort. The sushi was decent, but the star of the show was the Sashimi. It was some of the freshest and most flavorful fish I’ve ever had.

OTHER POPULAR SPOTS on the South Island

If you’re looking to extend your trip further, here are a few popular destinations to consider–

Abel Tasman national park

Located at the North end of the South Island, Abel Tasman is a go-to for those traveling down from the North Island (particularly from Wellington via Ferry). Known for coastal beaches and lush forest.

Fox and Franz Joseph Glaciers

A popular stop to visit on the West Coast of the South Island. Accessible for guided walks, though I would suggest opting for a helicopter flight experience to get the most out of it.

Punakaiki

Famous for its pancake rocks and blowholes. Located on the West Coast of the South Island.

The North Island

 Needless to say… If you have another week or more to spare I would forgo the above and fly to the North Island!

I hope you enjoy your journey through New Zealand’s South Island! Be sure to check out my other detailed itineraries to help you make the most of your next adventure. 

xoxo,

-L