New Zealand South Island Itinerary - 10 Days

Looking for the perfect New Zealand South Island Itinerary? You’ve come to the right place! As someone who has called New Zealand home—living in both Queenstown and Christchurch—and explored its every nook and cranny, I’m here to help you create an unforgettable journey.

From my time in Queenstown and Christchurch to countless road trips and adventures, I’ve discovered the best ways to explore the South Island’s incredible landscapes and experiences, even with limited time. Now I’m sharing them with you.

How many days on the South Island?
10-Day New Zealand South Island Itinerary (CHCH to CHCH, incl. Franz Josef Glacier)
10-Day New Zealand South Island Itinerary (CHCH to CHCH, incl. Abel Tasman)
10-Day New Zealand South Island Itinerary (QT to CHCH)

This collection of New Zealand South Island itineraries is designed to help you make the most of your trip while traveling at a comfortable pace. Instead of rushing from one destination to the next, these plans focus on maximizing your time with organized day tours and internal flights, letting you enjoy the journey as much as the destinations.

These itineraries will guide you through South Island’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant towns, and unique experiences.

How many days on the South Island?

2-3 weeks on the South Island is ideal to see most of the attractions, but you’ll be able to get a good taste of it with even with just 7-10 days.

The South Island of New Zealand is vast and road connections aren’t ideal so with shorter itineraries you’ll have to make some tough choices and focus on specific areas rather than the island as a whole.

If you have less than a week on the South Island I’d recommend spending it in Queenstown and explore the highlights on day trips as per this Queenstown itinerary.

If you have 2 weeks or more on the South Island, follow this South Island Road Trip itinerary.

Tips to optimize your New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Book internal flights to cut down on travel times (though the drives are usually breathtaking).
Where possible, stay at the same accommodation for multiple nights for ease of travel. Nobody likes packing and checking in all the time. Queenstown (QT) and Christchurch (CHCH) are the best hubs on the South Island.
Take advantage of organized tours to cut down on driving. The drives are scenic but NZ roads are tiring, especially if you’re jet lagged, not used to steep windy mountain passes and haven’t been driving on the left before.
While a campervan is a great way to experience New Zealand it might not be the best choice for short stays (less than 2-3 weeks) as it requires quite a bit of daily admin and drives slower.

10-Day New Zealand South Island Itinerary (CHCH to CHCH, incl. Franz Josef Glacier)

10 Day NZ S Island Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Arrival in Christchurch

Day 2: Kaikoura Whale Watching

Day 3: Arthur’s Pass & West Coast

Day 4: Heli Hike & Haast Pass

Day 5: Wanaka & Queenstown

Day 6: Queenstown Adventures

Day 7: Milford Sound Day Trip

Day 8: Mt. Cook National Park

Day 9: Hooker Valley Hike & Tekapo

Day 10: Departure Day from Christchurch

This itinerary includes must-see destinations on the South Island of New Zealand and reduces driving times by taking advantage of organized tours where optimal.

It still requires some driving to optimize your flexibility for more remote destinations and to minimize back and forth travels.

Why This Itinerary?

Waves and Glaciers: This itinerary includes a drive through Arthur’s Pass, part of the West Coast and the Glacier country. Some of the more remote and rugged parts of the island.
Reduced Driving: Organized day tours save energy and time for enjoying the sights. But NZ is big so be prepared for some long drives on some days.
Highlights Covered:
- Kaikoura Whale Watching,
- Arthur’s Pass,
- Franz Josef Glacier,
- Queenstown,
- Milford Sound,
- Mt. Cook National Park.

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Day 1: Arrival in Christchurch

While you’re most likely visiting New Zealand for its natural beauty, don’t dismiss Christchurch just yet!

It is the largest city in New Zealand’s South Island, known for overcoming earthquakes and its vibrant artsy and hip culture. It offers a mixture of historical landmarks, contemporary attractions, natural beauty, and adventure-filled day trips.

Land in Christchurch and settle into your accommodation. Then take a stroll through Christchurch and explore its highlights or just grab dinner in town if you’ve had a later flight. Don’t worry, you’ll still have the option to explore some of Christchurch on your last day before flying out.

Read next: Christchurch itinerary

Christchurch Vintage Tram

The best way to see Christchurch in a short time is to take advantage of the Hop-On Hop-Off Tram.

The vintage tram in Christchurch makes 17 stops at popular sightseeing spots like Cathedral Square, Botanic Gardens, and Riverside Market. It runs every 15 minutes, with a full-day ticket allowing flexibility to hop on and off or walk to the next stop.

Reserve your tickets: Vintage Tram ticket

Top Attractions in Christchurch

Street Art — Recognized by Lonely Planet as a must-see urban art space.
New Regent Street — Vibrant shopping and dining area.
Quake City — Interactive exhibits about the 2011 earthquake.
Christchurch Cathedral — An iconic Anglican cathedral damaged in the 2011 earthquake, now undergoing restoration.
Cardboard Cathedral — Innovative, temporary cathedral made of cardboard, designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban.
185 White Chairs — Poignant memorial for the 185 lives lost in the 2011 earthquake.
Avon River — Relax or take the punting tour.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens — 21 hectares of lush gardens. Over 150 years old!
Christchurch Gondola & Port Hills — Great views of the city.

Where to stay in Christchurch (2 nights)

You won’t need a car until the third day of this itinerary so the best place to base yourself is in the city center. This way you’ll be close to all attractions and restaurants.

These are the top accommodation picks in Christchurch:

CBD Loft — A central, fully equipped apartment with a balcony, fabulous views, and modern design.
City Hotel — Sleek and modern hotel smack in the middle of the city.
The Observatory Hotel — This 5* hotel has impeccable design, excellent service, and fabulous amenities.

Read next: Where to stay in Christchurch

Day 2: Kaikoura Whale Watching

Start your New Zealand adventure with a splash—literally! This Kaikoura whale-watching day tour is the perfect way to shake off jet lag and dive straight into the country’s natural wonders without the hassle of driving yourself.

Book your day tour: Kaikoura whale-watching from Christchurch

Kaikoura is a coastal town north of Christchurch famous for its incredible marine wildlife. It is known as the best place in New Zealand for whale and dolphin watching, and there is a massive seal colony just south of town too.

This whale-watching tour departs from Christchurch and includes a whale-watching boat tour, a stop at the seal colony as well as a wine tasting on your way back.

You’ll get a chance to spot majestic sperm whales, playful dolphins, humpback whales, and even the occasional shark or albatross.

Read next: Best Day Trips from Christchurch

Day 3: Arthur’s Pass and West Coast

Driving Time: ~5 hours

Pick up your rental car and head west via the stunning Arthur’s Pass. Start early as you have a lot of ground to cover and NZ roads aren’t kind.

You’ll need the car for 3 days until you get to Queenstown and then you’ll need it again on days 8 & 9 of this itinerary when you return to Christchurch. It usually makes more sense to keep it for the full duration since rental car providers tend to charge extra for returns to a different destination. Make sure to check the both options and pick the one that works best for you.

Castle Hill

Castle Hill is home to mystique and unique rock formations that offer opportunities for hikes, bouldering, photography, and quiet contemplation. This otherworldly landscape is perfect to stretch your legs en route to the West Coast.

Arthur’s Pass

Arthur’s Pass is both a small alpine village and a mountain pass located in the Southern Alps of New Zealand’s South Island not too far from Christchurch.

The Arthur’s Pass National Park is also part of Te Waipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a short break to marvel at Devil’s Punchbowl Falls and the dramatic alpine scenery. You will most likely also spot Kea parrots and other native wildlife.

Hokitika & Hokitika Gorge

The next stop is Hokitika for its beach and greenstone shops. Don’t miss the gorgeous Hokitika Gorge before heading to Franz Josef village for the night.

Where to stay in Franz Josef Village (1 night)

The village of Franz Josef is tiny but well prepared for tourists and offers a multitude of accommodation options as well as restaurants and bars. These are my recommendations:

These are my accommodation recommendations in Franz Josef:

Ferns Hideaway — Large house in a quiet area of town with a fully equipped kitchen.
Rainforest Deluxe — Sleek, modern design, a hot tub with stunning views, and exceptional facilities nd service.
Alpine Escape — A gorgeous wooden chalet slightly out of town, overlooking green fields and snow-capped mountains.

Franz Josef Heli Hike West Coast New Zealand5

Day 4: Heli Hike and Haast Pass

Driving Time: ~4 hours

Franz Josef Glacier Heli Hike

Franz Josef Glacier is one of the most iconic and accessible glaciers in the world. Renowned for its steep incline and rapid movement—up to 4 meters per day—it offers awe-inspiring views and thrilling experiences.

What truly sets it apart is its rare location—its terminal face rests in a temperate rainforest, combining glaciers and lush greenery in a stunning contrast not seen anywhere else.

Take a once-in-a-lifetime heli-hike to explore Franz Josef Glacier in the morning. This adventure combines an epic helicopter ride with exploring untouched icy wonders.

Book your adventure: Franz Josef Glacier Heli-Hike

Soar over lush rainforests and rugged peaks before landing on the glacier, where a guide leads you to stunning features like glowing ice caves, towering ice spires, and deep crevasses. Walking across the ever-shifting ice feels surreal, while the panoramic mountain views leave you in awe.

Thrilling, humbling, and completely unforgettable!

Read next: Franz Josef Heli Hike

P.S. If you’re not interested in doing the heli hike I would recommend a different itinerary. Franz Josef is a long way from everything and if you don’t climb up it might not be worth the drive. Take the TranzAlpine Railway to Greymouth or join this Arthur’s Pass tour and book a flight to Queenstown instead.

Haast Pass

After this bucket list adventure, take the drive through the breathtaking Haast Pass. Stop at Thunder Creek Falls, Fantail Falls, and the Blue Pools before reaching Hawea and Wanaka.

Spend the evening and night in Wanaka.

Where to stay in Wanaka (1 night)

Wanaka is small but gorgeous. Pick your accommodation fairly central so you’ll have plenty of restaurant options and the gorgeous lake at your doorstep.

These are the top accommodation picks in Wanaka:

Edgewater Hotel — Nestled on the shores of Lake Wanaka, Edgewater offers breathtaking lake and mountain views, fine dining, and spacious suites with modern amenities.
Club Wyndham Wanaka — Offering cozy, stylish rooms and a short distance from town, Ramada combines convenience with comfort, featuring an outdoor pool, spa, and mountain views.
Lansdown Peaks Apartments — These self-contained apartments provide a peaceful escape, featuring modern interiors, private balconies, and views of the Southern Alps.

Day 5: Wanaka and Queenstown

Driving Time: ~1.5 hours

After two days of long hours behind the wheel it’s time for a more relaxed tempo.

Wanaka

Spend a relaxed morning in Wanaka. Visit the Wanaka Tree, walk the Mount Iron Track (easy, panoramic views), or explore boutique shops and linger over breakfast in town.

If you’re up for a hike consider a sunrise mission to the iconic Roy’s Peak. This is a challenging hike with stunning views.

For nature lovers, this Mou Waho Island Cruise is a must. Ever been to a lake on an island, on an island in a lake, on an island in the ocean? This is your chance!

Read next: Wanaka itinerary

Crown Range Road & Cardrona

Drive the scenic Crown Range Road to Queenstown, stopping at Cardrona and the many viewpoints. You can head to Gibson Valley for wine tasting before driving to my favorite town in all of New Zealand-Queenstown.

Queenstown

After checking into your accommodation take a stroll through the Queenstown Gardens and the lakefront. Take in the views and enjoy the lively evening vibe in town. If you’re up for a party join this Pub crawl.

Where to stay in Queenstown (3 nights)

Stay fairly central but ensure you have parking if you’re keeping the car until your return to Christchurch.

These are my suggestions for accommodation in Queenstown:

Scenic Suites Queenstown — Located at the edge of town this complex boosts breathtaking views and comfortable facilities at a great price. The food here is delicious too!
Kamana Lakehouse — With breathtaking views, floor to ceiling windows and its contemporary decor, this modern lake house might just be our favourite place to stay in Queenstown, not to mention the delicious buffet breakfast!
Shotover Penthouse & Spa — This Penthouse is something else. Located smack in the middle of town and boosting some incredible views and a massive terrace with a hot tub, this apartment can sleep 6 and is perfect for groups.

Read next: Where to stay in Queenstown

Day 6: Queenstown Adventures

Nestled by Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand and is filled with thrilling activities, stunning landscapes, and unique experiences.

Having lived in Queenstown for over two years, I can confidently say that its stunning scenery never loses its magic.

Read next: Queenstown itinerary

Queenstown caters to all types of travelers, from adrenaline junkies to those seeking relaxation, stunning views, and cultural or culinary experiences.

Explore it at your own pace. Take the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views, enjoy a TSS Earnslaw lake cruise, or take a scenic drive to Glenorchy and Paradise for LOTR-worthy landscapes. For an adrenaline rush try bungee jumping and jet boating, or pick from the activities below:

Adventure & Thrills

Canyon Swing: 60m freefall followed by a 200m swing in Shotover Canyon.
Bungee Jumping: Queenstown, Kawarau Bridge, is the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping
Zipline Adventures
Jet Boating: Invented in the 1950s for New Zealand’s shallow rivers, experience the thrill on Queenstown’s Shotover River.
Skydiving and Paragliding for breathtaking aerial views of the Southern Alps and lakes.
Mountain Biking: Use Queenstown Bike Park or trails around town.
Funyaking | Dart River Funyak and Jet Boat

Scenic Experiences

TSS Earnslaw Lake Cruise: Ride this iconic century-old steamship for epic views.
Glenorchy and Paradise Valley: LOTR filming locations and incredible nature.
Queenstown Hill, Bob’s Peak and Skyline: Easy hikes or gondola rides unveiling epic views.
Ben Lomond Hike: A challenging climb with 360-degree panoramic views.
Wine Tours: Central Otago wineries specializing in Pinot Noir.
Arrowtown: A historic village with boutique shops and charming cafes.

Day 7: Milford Sound Day Trip

Milford Sound, or Piopiotahi in Te Reo Māori, is a breathtaking fiord situated in Fiordland National Park on New Zealand’s South Island. Carved by glaciers over millions of years, this natural wonder is characterized by dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, lush rainforests, and the iconic Mitre Peak rising straight out of the water.

A part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Site, Milford Sound is a must-visit destination in NZ that draws nearly a million visitors annually for its unparalleled scenery and rich wildlife.

Read next: Milford Sound guide

The best way to see Milford Sound is a coach, cruise & flight tour from Queenstown as it lets you see Milford Sound from all vantage points – air, water, and land.

Enjoy the scenic drive along Milford Road by bus, a boat cruise through the stunning fjord, and a breathtaking plane ride back with views of Milford National Park, the Southern Alps, and Lake Wakatipu. The flight cuts back on the long return drive so you’ll have more energy for tomorrow adventures.

If flying isn’t within your budget book this small group tour from Queenstown. You could also drive to Milford Sound on your own and join this Small Boat Cruise in Milford Sound. The drive is gorgeous and I’d usually recommend it but since you’re on a short time frame and covering a lot of ground with this itinerary, it might be too exhausting.

Book your Milford Sound adventure:
Coach, cruise & fly from Queenstown
Small group tour from Queenstown
Milford Sound Small Boat Cruise

Day 8: Mt. Cook National Park

Driving Time: ~3.5 hours

Today you’re hitting the road again and embarking on one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand. This journey takes about 3.5 to 4 hours of driving, but with so many scenic stops en route, you’ll want to dedicate a full day to enjoy everything.

Read next: Christchurch to Queenstown drive

Kawarau Gorge

Just outside Queenstown, the road winds through the dramatic Kawarau Gorge, where the turquoise Kawarau River cuts through rugged cliffs. Stop at the historic Kawarau Suspension Bridge, the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping.

Cromwell

Continuing through the fertile Cromwell Basin, you’ll pass vineyards and orchards. In summer, roadside fruit stands sell fresh cherries, peaches, and apricots, perfect for a snack.

Stop at Old Cromwell Town, a charming gold-mining settlement with boutique shops and cafés. Or check out the Highlands Motorsport Park (and their famous toilets) if you always wanted to to ride a high-performance Ferrari or Porsche supercar on a world-class circuit.

Lindis Pass

From Cromwell the road climbs into Lindis Pass, a high-altitude route surrounded by golden tussock-covered hills. Stop at the lookout to soak in the vast landscapes and stretch your legs.

Lake Pukaki

One of the most beautiful spots in New Zealand, Lake Pukaki’s glacial-fed turquoise waters are unforgettable. Pause at the lookout for an iconic view of Mt. Cook.

Tasman Glacier

As you approach Mt. Cook, explore the Tasman Glacier. A short walk leads to Tasman Lake, often dotted with icebergs calved from the glacier.

You can also take a Glacier Explorers Boat Tour to get closer to the icebergs and learn about the glacier’s history.

Mt. Cook Village

Arrive in Mt. Cook Village and if time allows, visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre. Spend the evening stargazing in the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve.

For dinner, head to the Old Mountaineers’ Café, which offers hearty meals and stunning mountain views.

Where to stay in Mt. Cook Village

Mt. Cook Village is tiny and accommodation is limited so make sure to book well in advance. If you can’t get a room in Mt. Cook Village consider staying in Twizel.

The Hermitage Hotel Mt Cook — Luxury stay with stunning Mt. Cook views, excellent dining, and a cozy lounge. The breakfast is to die for.
Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge — Charming lodge with mountain views, private bathrooms, and a cozy lounge.
YHA Mt Cook — Budget-friendly option with comfy dorm and private rooms, great vibes, and friendly staff.

Day 9: Hooker Valley Hike and Tekapo

Driving Time: ~4.5 hours

Hooker Valley Hike

The Hooker Valley Track is hands down one of the most enjoyable and picturesque hikes you’ll find in New Zealand (and the world!).

This 10 km return trail is easy and mostly flat, well-maintained and welcoming for even the least outdoorsy among us. That said, weather in the valley can be a fickle friend so dress in layers and pack a rain jacket.

Hooker Valley Track delivers everything you’d want from an alpine adventure—snow-capped mountains, rushing glacial streams, swingbridges, boardwalks and that heart-fluttering moment when Aoraki/Mount Cook reveals itself in all its glory.

Once you pass the second swing bridge, you’ll find yourself on a dreamy boardwalk that winds through a wide alpine meadow. The closer you get to Hooker Lake, the grander the views.

Hooker Lake sits at the base of Hooker Glacier with Mount Cook pearched above like a perfect alpine jewel and icebergs floating around. It’s the kind of moment that’ll have you fumbling for your camera while mumbling, “This can’t be real.”

Lake Tekapo

As you start driving towards Christchurch make sure to stop at Lake Tekapo, known for its vibrant glacial blue color and the picturesque Church of the Good Shepherd.

The lake’s unique hue comes from glacial flour reflecting turquoise wavelengths. The effect is even more striking on sunny days.

While in Tekapo make sure to make time for:

Church of the Good Shepherd – Sitting alone by the lake, this small, picturesque church with a mountain backdrop is one of the most photographed in the world.
Tekapo Springs – Relax in soothing hot pools with stunning lake and mountain views. Seasonal activities include ice skating in winter and roller skating in summer, plus spa treatments for extra pampering.
Lupin Fields – From November to December, vibrant pink and purple lupins bloom around the lake, adding to its already spectacular scenery.
Stargazing at Mt. John – Located in a Dark Sky Reserve, Mt. John Observatory offers incredible stargazing with expert-guided telescope tours. Explore distant stars and galaxies in one of the world’s best night-sky locations.

Christchurch

Continue your drive through Burkes Pass, Fairly and Geraldine to your final destination, Christchurch where you’ll spend your final night.

Where to stay in Christchurch (1 night)

Consider staying where you’ve stayed at the beginning of your trip or opt for Novotel Christchurch Airport Hotel if you have an early flight.

Day 10: Departure Day from Christchurch

Spend your last hours in Christchurch exploring anything you missed on Day 1. Return your rental car and head to the airport for your flight home.

10-Day New Zealand South Island Itinerary (CHCH to CHCH, incl. Abel Tasman)

10 Day NZ S Island Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Arrival in Christchurch

Day 2: Kaikoura Whale Watching

Day 3: Marlbrough Sounds

Day 4: Abel Tasman & Golden Bay

Day 5: Fly to Queenstown

Day 6: Queenstown Adventures

Day 7: Milford Sound Day Trip

Day 8: Mt. Cook National Park

Day 9: Hooker Valley Hike & Tekapo

Day 10: Departure from Christchurch

This itinerary includes must-see destinations on the South Island of New Zealand and reduces driving times by taking advantage of organized tours where optimal.

It still requires some driving to optimize your flexibility for more remote destinations and to minimize back and forth travels.