Heard of a country that spends 30% of its GDP on preservation and conservation of its environment, and where Sheep outnumber Humans by large (25 million sheep vs 5 million Humans ). Welcome to New Zealand a nature lover’s paradise and one of the top rated countries for a road trip.
New Zealand, with its breathtaking landscapes, Maori culture, and thrilling outdoor adventures, is the perfect destination for a road trip. It won’t be an exaggeration to claim its one of the prettiest countries we have been to so far and I know most people who have visited share this sentiment. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a nature lover, or someone seeking tranquility in beautiful surroundings, this country is going to totally blow you away. At the end of our trip we were quite ready to even migrate and live in New Zealand but eventually left with our hearts full and a promise to return someday.
This 20-day New Zealand road trip itinerary is comprehensive and offers the best of everything so grab a cup of Coffee and read on. From dramatic fjords and majestic mountains to beautiful cities and gorgeous hidden beaches, New Zealand really has it all.
There is a famous saying, that one would encounter a beach or a Mountain if you drive 50 kms any direction in New Zealand. I attest this is 100% True.
In this detailed guide, we take you through an exciting day-by-day itinerary for your 20-day adventure, along with recommendations for the best things to do, some important pit stops, foods one can try, and an estimate of the average costs to budget for a road trip in New Zealand.
Visa & Costs
- Indian Nationals need a prior valid Visa to enter New Zealand, we applied online and got ours hassle free via an email. The Visa cost as of 2019 – NZD 190 per person but find the latest fee , rules and application details on the official website here
- Flights from Delhi : We flew Singapore Air that cost us INR 58,000 per person
- Car Rental with Insurance : NZD 40-100 per day (depending on the type of car you choose)
- Accommodation: NZD 80-150 per night for budget to mid-range options
- Fuel: NZD 2.50-3.00 per liter
- Food: NZD 15-30 per meal (restaurants and local eateries) Good Indian food easily available.
- Adventure Activities: NZD 100-300 per activity (e.g., bungee jumping, skydiving, Heli Glacier Ride, Kayaking , Rafting, Wine Tasting )
What to Eat
- Fergburger: A famous burger joint in Queenstown. You can’t leave without trying one of their gourmet burgers. But I have to say NZ really do their burger’s well we had some of the best burgers ever.
- Fish and Chips: A quintessential New Zealand take on the classic British fast food dish.
- Flat White Coffee, and local tea cakes like Carrot cake, Lavender and Manuka Honey Cake – Just the absolute best
- Manuka Honey & Jams : Manuka honey has a rich, robust flavor that can range from sweet and floral to slightly earthy and tangy, with a depth of taste that differentiates it from other honeys. The flavor often has an herbal note due to the nectar from the Manuka plant. They are available in various flavours too.
- Hāngi: A traditional Māori dish made from meat, seafood, and vegetables cooked in an earth oven.
- Indian Butter Chicken – Believe it or not most restaurants serve this and its as good as the authentic Indian version.
- Pavlova : A beloved dessert made of a crisp meringue shell, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits, usually kiwifruit, strawberries, or passionfruit.
- Meat Pies : Any bakery or pie shop , Geoff’s Pies in Auckland and Fergbaker in Queenstown are local favourites.
- Lamb Dishes : The country has vast pastures for sheep farming, so New Zealand lamb is of exceptional quality and flavour. Look for roast lamb or lamb chops on menus.
- Anzac Biscuits : A sweet, chewy biscuit (cookie) made with oats, golden syrup, and coconut, traditionally associated with the ANZAC soldiers during World War
- Green-lipped Mussels: Freshly caught from the local waters, these mussels are a must-try in Coromandel.
- Kiwifruit: Rotorua is in the heart of kiwifruit-growing country, so be sure to sample some fresh kiwifruit.
- Venison: Known for its game meat, venison dishes are a local delicacy in Queenstown.
- Local Trout Fish in Fjordland and Lake Taupo.
What to Pack
- A windcheater for Rains/ A waterproof Down Jacket even during spring/summers – New Zealand is an alpine country and the weather can change four times in a single day. Even during Spring/Summer one can experience storms, rains and a slight chill specially in the West Coast, Mackenzie District and the Fiordland.
- Comfortable Hiking/Walking Shoes – If you ain’t hiking in New Zealand and walking across its gorgeous Rain forests, Mountains & lakes then you are missing it’s real beauty. Even though most day hikes have well marked tracks with mesh, wearing good gripping shoes is essential. Just leave your heels back home for this trip.
- A pair of leggings – I had my leggings & shoes in the car boot all the time and changed in the car on three different occasions when we stumbled on a beautiful path or once when I was soaked in the rains. This country is extremely windy and its not comfortable to dress up in dresses or skirts in wilderness always. You need your leggings/shorts/Joggers etc too.
- Hiking gear like trekking poles can be extremely helpful if you plan on the tougher and longer hikes like Keplers Track in Fiordland.
- Whatever you plan to bring ‘ Ensure your shoes , trekking poles are free of dirt , they are thoroughly checked at immigration as New Zealand has a lot of native flora and fauna that is endangered.
- Extra warm layers and quality winter wear are a given if you plan to visit during winter months.
Road Trip Essentials: What You Need to Know
Before we dive into the itinerary, here are some key things to consider when planning your New Zealand road trip:
- Driving in New Zealand: In New Zealand, you’ll be driving on the left side of the road (which makes it easy for us Indians). Distances between major cities can be long. Make sure you have an international driving permit in English if you’re from overseas.
- Check your rental car insurance and road rules before hitting the road. Usually most car rental companies hand over a rule booklet.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit New Zealand for a road trip is during the spring for fewer crowds (September-November) and summer (December-February) months when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities specifically if you wish to hike a lot. We travelled in early November and some popular hikes were closed for the lambing season or because there was still a lot of snow.
- Prepare for Narrow and Winding Road : Rural roads in New Zealand, especially in mountainous regions or rural areas, can be narrow and winding. Take care when driving on these roads and watch out for sharp bends, steep hills, and sudden weather changes.
- Speed Limits and Road Signs : Speed limits are usually 50 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on highways, and can be lower on winding roads. Always follow posted speed signs, as they can vary depending on the terrain or weather.
- Keep an eye out for the “Give Way” and “Stop” signs, which may be at intersections, and “Roundabout” signs, which are common in cities and towns.
- Pay attention to the orange triangle warning signs indicating potential hazards like sharp bends, steep gradients, or animals crossing
- Campervan – If you want to drive a campervan research well and download some handy apps to find the best campsites with charging stations and facilities or designated freedom camping spots well in advance during peak season.
Now, let’s dive into our 20-day New Zealand road trip itinerary.
Day 1-2 : Auckland – The City of Sails
International flights mostly land either in Auckland, Christchurch or Queenstown. If your trip is 2 weeks or less we would suggest you skip the north island and fly straight into Queenstown rather. The sound island is not only more popular but also prettier and for those who have just 10-12 days at their mercy its best to restrict it to the South island. We had 20 days so we covered both islands, but nature lovers can spend months in this country easily.
We picked our Car from our Rental company at the Auckland airport and did not have much time in the city because the real New Zealand lies outside of the big cities, we couldn’t wait to hit the road inspite of being super jet lagged.
Things to Do:
- Auckland Sky Tower: Start your adventure with a visit to Auckland’s iconic Sky Tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas.
- Waitemata Harbour: Take a ferry ride across the Waitemata Harbour to Devonport for spectacular views of the Auckland skyline and the Hauraki Gulf.
- Auckland Domain & Museum: Explore the city’s oldest park, Auckland Domain, and visit the Auckland War Memorial Museum for an insight into New Zealand’s history and culture.
- SkyJump or SkyWalk at Auckland Sky Tower: If you’re looking for a thrill, try the SkyJump (a bungee-style jump) or the SkyWalk (a guided walk around the tower’s perimeter).
Day 3-4: Coromandel Peninsula – A Slice of Paradise
Drive time: 2.5 hours from Auckland to Coromandel.
The Coromandel Peninsula is one of North Islands most stunning destinations, offering a perfect blend of pristine beaches, lush forests, and scenic coastal walks. Located about 2.5 hours from Auckland (provided you don’t stop to admire the views often which is something impossible when you are in the Kiwi Land). A popular Must-visit spot includes the Hot Water Beach, where one can dig their own hot spring bath (I loved dipping my feet into the pit of bubbling water that helped with the jet lag quite a bit), the gorgeous Cathedral Cove was a personal favourite , known for its iconic rock arch and crystal-clear blue waters, its about a 45 minute hike with spectacular views of the ocean all along. Whether you’re into kayaking, hiking, or just relaxing by the beach, Coromandel Peninsula is a must-see for anyone exploring New Zealand’s North Island.
Things to Do:
- Hot Water Beach: Dig your own natural hot tub at Hot Water Beach, where geothermal springs bubble up beneath the sand and relax your tired feet
- Cathedral Cove: A stunning coastal walk leads to Cathedral Cove, known for its dramatic rock formations and pristine beach. Needless to say wear sturdy shoes and start your day early.
- Kayaking or Stand-Up Paddleboarding at Cathedral Cove: Explore the beautiful coastline from the water if you love water sports.
- Coromandel Coastal Walk: Hike the famous Coromandel Coastal Walkway for panoramic views of the region.
Day 5-6: Rotorua – Geothermal Wonderlands
Drive time: 2 hours from Coromandel to Rotorua.
We drove to Rotorua via a stopover at the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves that takes a couple of additional hours, but this place was on top of my bucket list for our New Zealand adventure and it did not disappoint us one bit. The thousands of glowworms lit the underwater cave like a night sky where you take a little boat ride to experience them. No pictures or photographs are allowed as this can harm them but I encourage you google some pictures online.
An hour and half from Waitomo , you arrive in Rotorua. Basically when you smell sulphur you know you have arrived in Rotorua , one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations, renowned for its geothermal wonders and the rich Māori culture. A first of a kind experience for us, Rotorua offers a unique mix of hot springs, geysers, and mud pools, with popular attractions like Te Puia and Wai-O-Tapu geothermal par.
Beyond its geothermal marvels, Rotorua is also a hub for outdoor adventure, offering activities such as zorbing, skydiving, and mountain biking too. You can also immerse in traditional Māori experiences, including a Hāngi feast if you fancy knowing the local culture more. For us the highlight was to experience the geothermal activity as we had never seen anything like it before. So if you haven’t been to Yellowstone or Iceland yet or experienced any geothermal parks like us I would highly recommend you do so here, I was absolutely amazed at the bubbling pits, the florescent shades of green and striking oranges were just unbelievable.
Things to Do:
- Te Puia: Visit the Te Puia geothermal park, home to geysers, hot springs, and mud pools, and learn about Māori culture.
- Take a little de tour to stop at Waitomo Glowworm Caves , these are one of New Zealand’s most famous natural attractions, offering a magical and unique underground experience. Located in the Waikato region, about 2.5 hours south of Auckland and 1.5 hours north of Rotorua, the caves are renowned for their stunning glowworms that light up the caves like a starry night sky. I only slapped myself 10 times to check if i wasn’t dreaming. SPECTACULAR ! What a beautiful Planet we get to live on.
- Lake Rotorua: Spend time at Lake Rotorua, where you can take a scenic cruise or try fishing.
- Zorbing: Rotorua is the birthplace of zorbing, where you roll down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball. I wasn’t excited about this one and was saving my money for few other bucket list adventures in South Island so we skipped doing this
- Skyline Rotorua: Take the gondola to the top of Mount Ngongotaha for breathtaking views and try the Luge for an exciting downhill ride.
Day 7 : Taupō & Tongariro National Park – Adventure Central
Drive time: 1 hour from Rotorua to Taupō.
Lake Taupō, located about an hour from Rotorua, is the country’s largest freshwater lake and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by stunning landscapes, Lake Taupō offers a range of activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming (too cold for us though). The lake is also known for its world-class trout fishing, drawing anglers from around the globe. Nearby, the stunning Huka Falls and Tongariro National Park (closed in November when we went as the snow on the pass hadn’t melted yet) provide ample hiking opportunities and breathtaking views. For thrill-seekers, skydiving and bungee jumping over Lake Taupō offer an unforgettable experience. I was a little bummed about not being able to visit Tongariro National Park but as they say something for next time.
Things to Do:
- Lake Taupō: Take a boat cruise on New Zealand’s largest lake, or go fishing for trout.
- Huka Falls: Witness the power of the Huka Falls, a stunning waterfall on the Waikato River.
- Tongariro Alpine Crossing: One of New Zealand’s most famous day hikes, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing takes you through volcanic landscapes, steaming craters, and emerald lakes. (It was closed in November when we went so always better to check weather conditions in spring season)
- Skydiving over Lake Taupō: For adrenaline junkies, skydiving over Lake Taupō offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Day 8-9 : Fly into South Island or take a ferry
If you thought you had already seen and soaked in a lot wait till you arrive in New Zealand’s South Island. South Island is a road tripper’s paradise, offering breathtaking dramatic landscapes, unbelievable alpine lakes and scenery , adventure sports to wine routes breathtaking mountains and fjords and some world famous hikes.
FRIENDLY WARNING – FACTOR EXTRA HOURS OVER WHAT GOOGLE MAPS SAYS BECAUSE YOU WILL BE STOPPING YOUR CAR EVERY FEW KMS HERE.
We picked our second card rental from the Christchurch airport itself
Note : We returned our Car at Auckland and flew into Christchurch to save time and money both. But the other very popular option is to take a ferry from Wellington to Picton (3 hours) and continue with the same car. We just found this to be more expensive and a little time consuming (as the ferry times are not so frequent , depend on weather conditions etc) so we chose to fly from Auckland to Christchurch (you could also fly into Queenstown and start your South Island road trip here) Basically we returned our North Island car and hired another car in South island instead.
Day 9 -12 : Christchurch , Arthur Pass & West Coast
Drive time: 6 hour from Christchurch to Fox Glacier
Experience the garden city by paying a visit to the Christchurch Botanic Gardens today or start your journey by visiting the tranquil Botanic Gardens in Hagley Park. A peaceful stroll here offers a relaxing introduction to the city’s natural beauty, you could also experience some traditional punting here. Later in the day visit the Canterbury Museum and dive into New Zealand’s history , where you’ll find fascinating exhibits on Māori culture, colonial history, and natural sciences.
Driving from Christchurch to New Zealand’s West Coast offers a scenic journey through diverse landscapes, from rolling plains to rugged coastlines. The journey is about 6 hour long but with such views and gorgeous stop overs I suggest you consider it to be 8-9 hour drive. We checked out of our Christchurch Air Bnb pretty early to cover these spots but if you prefer breaking the journey somewhere in between you could budget a stopover at the Arthur’s Pass and then continue forward.
The West Coast, known for its natural beauty and dramatic scenery, is a must-visit destination which some travellers skip but if you have the time consider including it. Along the way, you’ll pass through the Arthur’s Pass National Park, famous for its alpine landscapes, hiking trails, and striking mountain views. West Coast is also home to Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier, where you can enjoy heli-hiking and glacier walks (The adventure activity we were saving up for all this while). Stop at the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, unique limestone formations along the coast. Take a little detour towards the stunning Blues of the Hokitika Gorge. The drive itself was such an unforgettable adventure !
Accommodation: Stay overnight in Franz Josef or the nearby village of Fox Glacier. We chose the latter.
Key Stops & Things to Do:
- Arthur’s Pass National Park (2 hours from Christchurch)
- Hokitika :A popular destination known for its greenstone, and its location near the river mouth and Tasman Sea beach. ( 3.5 hours from Christchurch)
- Hokitika Gorge A must-see spot with turquoise water and native bush
- Franz Josef Glacier (4.5 hours from Greymouth)
- Fox Glacier (25 minutes from Franz Josef): Walk to the glacier lookout or, for a more adventurous experience, book a guided glacier hike or a helicopter flight for an aerial view and landing stop the glacier truly once in a lifetime experience. It was an unforgettable experience.
- Spend a relaxed day at the Gillespies Beach a black sand beach located in the Westland Tai Poutini National Park, with the Tasman Sea to the west, View the setting sun over a Glacier and the crashing waves of a Beach from the comfort of a same spot.
Day 12-14: Fox Glacier to Wanaka via Haast Pass
Drive time: 4.5 – 5 hours from Fox Glacier to Wanaka.
Follow State Highway 6 along the West Coast before turning inland at Haast. The Haast Pass is a beautiful drive through native forests, waterfalls, and lakes so take your time to soak in the views. Chances are if you have seen a picture of New Zealand its of the Wanaka Tree. It could very well be the most popular Tree on the planet even but this charming town has more to it.
Key Stops & Things to Do:
- Lake Matheson (near Fox Glacier): A perfect spot for a morning walk, especially if you want to capture reflections of Mt. Cook and Mt. Tasman in the lake. A non windy day is best to get the most clear reflections.
- Haast Pass: Stop at some of the viewpoints, such as Thunder Creek Falls and Roaring Billy Falls.
- Lake Wanaka: Once you reach Wanaka, enjoy the view of the lake and mountains surrounding the area. Sunset views are incredible here.
- Wanaka Tree: Visit the famous lone tree standing in the lake, one of New Zealand’s most photographed landmarks or try your hands at kayaking on its crystal clear blue waters. If you are feeling lazy like me simply enjoy a laid back picnic by its shore and play with local ducks and dogs.
- Roy’s Peak: If you’re up for a challenge, hike the iconic Roy’s Peak for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains (5-6 hours, Closed in November for lambing season)
- Visit a nearby Lavender Farm to taste some Lavender flavoured Honey and delicious cakes and ice creams, Feed and pet the adorable farm animals from Sheep’s to Alpaca’s or buy yourself a Merino wool souvenir.
Day 14-16: Wanaka to Te Anau -Fiordland National Park /Milford Sound Cruise
Drive time: 4.5 hrs hours from Wanaka to Fiordland.
Its time to leave the beautiful shores of Lake Wanaka and explore one of the most popular sites of New Zealand Milford Sound and the Fjords. Many people visit the cruise as a day trip from Wanaka or Queenstown if you are pressed for time you could opt for the same, but we highly recommend you allocate a few days to this charming part of New Zealand to truly enjoy its beauty.
If you’re not in a rush, take a slight detour via Cardrona Valley Road, which will lead you to Cardrona (famous for the Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand’s oldest and most iconic pubs). It’s a small diversion but very scenic if you enjoy rural charm and mountain landscapes.
Break for lunch at the cute Arrowtown and try your luck at striking gold here. A charming historic village just outside of Queenstown its famous for its gold-mining history, Chinese settlements and tree-lined streets, and stunning autumn colours (if you’re visiting in the fall).
Post lunch continue your drive from Arrowtown towards Te Anau: 2.5-3 hours (around 190 km). The road to Te Anau takes you through a variety of landscapes from golden fields to dramatic mountain ranges, alpine lakes, and verdant forests. Our base was the cute town of Te Anau where we stayed just next to the lake shore to have uninterrupted views of Lake Te Anau.
Key Stops & Things to Do:
- Milford Sound Cruise: Experience the natural beauty of Milford Sound with a scenic cruise through the fjord, surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls. Enjoy witnessing Seals and Penguins chilling on the boulders. Milford Sound cruise costs around NZD 100-120
- Doubtful Sound: For a more remote and tranquil experience, take a cruise on Doubtful Sound, often less crowded than Milford and something we missed doing.
- Kayaking in Milford Sound: Adventure junkies can Paddle along the fjord and enjoy an up-close view of the towering cliffs and waterfalls. It was raining and really cold so there was no way I was signing up for this.
- Fiordland Trout: Known for its fresh, clean taste, Fiordland trout is a local specialty.
Day 16-18: Queenstown – The Adventure Capital
Drive time: 5 hours from Te Anau to Queenstown.
Welcome to my favourite city in the whole wide world Queenstown ! Known as the Adventure Capital of the World, Queenstown offers thrilling activities such as bungee jumping, skydiving, and jet boating for those who seek adventures. Jaw dropping views, mesmerising hikes , Vineyards , Fresh Bread and Cakes , Pristine Lakes just to name a few – An official appeal to call it paradise rather.
Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables Mountains, the town boasts stunning landscapes perfect for outdoor adventures year-round. Whether you’re hiking, skiing, or exploring Milford Sound on a day trip, Queenstown provides endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Don’t miss iconic landmarks like Bob’s Peak, the Skyline Gondola, and the charming Arrowtown nearby which we covered on our way to Te Anau already. If there is must do on your New Zealand itinerary its this and the Mackenzie belt.
Things to Do:
- Lake Wakatipu: Take a cruise on the stunning Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Or like us grab the best burger in the world from Fergburger and picnic by its tranquil shores.
- Glenorchy: A short drive from Queenstown, Glenorchy is a little fairytale town known for its dramatic landscapes and as the filming location for many scenes in The Lord of the Rings. Its called Paradise for a reason. I had my eyes popped out and in complete disbelieve during the whole drive. This cannot be real.
- Bungee Jumping: Queenstown is the birthplace of bungee jumping, and you can try it at the iconic Kawarau Bridge.
- Skydiving: Queenstown offers some of the most scenic skydiving experiences in the world, with views of the Remarkables mountain range and Lake Wakatipu.
- Wine Tasting : For Wine enthusiasts , Queenstown promises an unforgettable blend of fine wine, stunning views, and top-notch hospitality. The region is known for its stunning vineyards, exceptional wines, and breathtaking landscapes. Nestled in the Central Otago wine region, Queenstown offers a variety of cellar door experiences where you can sample some of the world’s finest wines, particularly Pinot Noir, which thrives in the area’s cool climate.
Day 18-20: Queenstown to the Mackenzie District in Canterbury
Drive Time: Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours (around 270 km)
This route takes you through some of the South Island’s most breathtaking landscapes, including alpine lakes, stunning valleys, and picturesque towns. From Queenstown, you’ll head northeast via State Highway 8 (SH8), passing through the Cromwell Basin and Lindis Pass, before finally arriving in the Mackenzie District.
Start your journey early to make the most of this long drive today. You’ll travel through the Cromwell Basin, an area known for its fruit orchards and vineyards. Pick some delicious strawberries and plums as your road trip snacks from a fruit seller.
Drive Time from Cromwell to Lindis Pass: Approximately 1 hour (80 km)
Lindis Pass:
- One of the most beautiful and remote mountain passes in New Zealand, Lindis Pass offers a dramatic change in scenery, with tussock-covered hills and rugged alpine terrain. It’s a perfect spot to stop and take in panoramic views of the surrounding Southern Alps.
- The Lindis Pass Summit (971 meters) provides a chance to stretch your legs and capture photos of the vast, windswept landscape.
- Continue to drive to Twizel in the Mackenzie District where you could break for lunch.
- Twizel: As you drive into Twizel, you’re entering the heart of the Mackenzie District. This town serves as the main gateway to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park and Lake Pukaki.
- Twizel is also a great place to stop for a night if you want to rest before further exploration. The town is surrounded by stunning views of the Southern Alps, Lake Ruataniwha, and is known for its recreational fishing and outdoor activities. But we had our bookings at Mt Cook National Park for the night so we continued post a quick lunch break by the lake of the packed Fergburger we carried along.
Lake Pukaki & Mount Cook National Park
As you drive from Twizel to Aoraki, on your way you will encounter the stunning otherworldly Turquoise waters of Lake Pukaki and drive besides it, take in the jaw-dropping views of Mount Cook (Aoraki) here from some vantage view points and admire its Turquoise waters.
New Zealand’s tallest mountain and these Turquoise waters will make you pinch yourself hard. If only I could gather words to describe this scene but you have probably seen a Picture of it on some Travel magazine and I will leave it for you to experience this moment of serenity yourself.
Lake Pukaki: The lake’s striking blue color is caused by glacial flour, which gives it an otherworldly hue. This is an ideal spot for taking photos of Mount Cook in the background.
Continue the drive to Mount Cook Village (Aoraki), where you can explore New Zealand’s highest peak , Aoraki/Mount Cook and visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, take short walks like the Hooker Valley Track (which offers stunning views of the mountain and surrounding glaciers and floating icebergs), or simply enjoy the majestic views around you.
The next day we arrive in Lake Tekapo (a 45-minute drive from Mt Cook Village), depending on your pace, energy levels and your ability to not make pitstops every few minutes for these magnificent views. Lake Tekapo is a popular stop in the Mackenzie District, known for its Church of the Good Shepherd and the stunning Lake Tekapo with views of Mount Cook perched in far sight. Tekapo Springs offers hot pools with views of the lake if you’d like to relax after your drive.
Things to Do :
- Lake Tekapo: Start your day by visiting the Church of the Good Shepherd and enjoying the views over Lake. From Mid November to January the shores are filled with the famous Lupines that make this a scene straight out of fairy tales.
- Mt. Cook / Aoraki: If you didn’t make it the day before due to weather conditions that change every few hours here, you can visit today to hike or enjoy the views.
- Stargazing: The Mackenzie Basin is renowned for its clear skies, making it one of the best places for stargazing. The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve offers world-class stargazing opportunities, so if you’re staying overnight, it’s worth a visit to one of the observatories or just stepping outside to enjoy the night sky.
Thats it your New Zealand road has to end unfortunately and on your last day depending on your outward international flight you could drive back to either to Christchurch like us or Queenstown for an onward journey.
Final Thoughts On New Zealand Road Trip
We have now driven to 6 countries in the world & still counting , what I can tell you very confidently is that New Zealand should not be your first few road trips like us because it will set the bar up very high. There won’t be many road trips in the world that will quite match upto it.
A 20-day road trip through New Zealand offers a perfect mix of adventure, culture, and scenic natural beauty to the core. From the cities to the untouched wilderness, you’ll experience everything that makes New Zealand one of the world’s most popular travel destinations and a place like no other. But if you have more time to devote even better, fewe days then skip the north island and head straight to the south island
Remember to plan and tweak your trip according to your interests, whether you prefer more thrilling activities like bungee jumping and rafting or peaceful hikes through rainforests and fjords. Like a lot of Hobbiton fans usually add that to their list while we skipped. We are yet to watch LOTR so we chose Waitomo caves instead.
Be sure to book accommodation and activities in advance during peak seasons, and always check weather conditions that can change in a matter of minutes here before setting out on your adventure for the day.
Hope you found this blog helpful and your New Zealand trip turns out as memorable as ours did. Happy Road tripping !
