Exploring the South Island: A 10-Day Road Trip Guide

Q: Can I do this trip in winter?

Yes — but check road conditions on alpine passes like Arthur’s Pass and Haast Pass. Chains may be required.

There’s something magical about a South Island road trip - mountains that scrape the sky, mirror-like lakes, rugged coastlines, and friendly small towns that feel like a step back in time. And the best way to experience it all? With the keys to a rental car and 10 days of adventure ahead of you.

For many people planning a South Island adventure, time is often the biggest challenge. Whether you are a Liwi planning a summer escape or one of our many international visitors planning a much bigger trip, we know that 10 days is about the average amount of time people tend to spend on a South Island getaway. We also know that exploring the South Island in 10 days is tough with so many things to see and places to discover.

Here at RaD Car Hire, we have branches throughout the South Island, which makes it much easier to plan your route, no matter where you want to start and finish. Our 10-day itinerary below is just one example of the route you could take, but hopefully gives you some ideas for your adventure.

Whether you start in Christchurch, Nelson, or Queenstown, this itinerary lets you take in the best of the South Island, with local tips from our RaD Car Hire teams across the island to make sure you don’t miss a thing.

Day 1–2: Christchurch & Canterbury

Kick off your trip in Christchurch, the South Island’s largest city and gateway to adventure. Known as the “Garden City,” it blends urban renewal with historic charm.

Must-sees:
Christchurch Botanic Gardens for a peaceful stroll.
Riverside Market for local eats and artisan treats.
New Regent Street for pastel-coloured heritage buildings and boutique shopping.
Local tip (Christchurch branch): “If you have time, head to Akaroa on Banks Peninsula where you will discover French-inspired cafés, dolphin cruises, and jaw-dropping harbour views, making it a perfect day trip.”
Scenic stop: Take a short drive to the Port Hills for panoramic views over the city and Lyttelton Harbour.

Christchurch is a popular starting destination for South Island adventures, and our handy rental car location at Christchurch Airport has some of the best options when it comes to cheap rental cars in all shapes and sizes.

If you have more time in and around Christchurch, make sure you check out our guide of Places to Visit Near Christchurch: Day Trips & Hidden Gems

Day 3: Arthur’s Pass & Greymouth

Head west across the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass, one of New Zealand’s most spectacular alpine roads.

Highlights:
Devils Punchbowl Waterfall track - an easy walk to a stunning waterfall.
Watch out for cheeky kea (alpine parrots) near the village!

Arrive in Greymouth by late afternoon, the largest town on the West Coast and a hub for exploring the area.

Local tip (Greymouth branch): “Stop for a Monteith’s Brewery tour - it’s a West Coast institution.”

If you are on a different itinerary but you are looking to explore Arthur’s Pass, there is also an option to take the TranzAlpine Scenic train one way and pick up a rental car in either Christchurch or Greymouth.

Day 4: Hokitika & the West Coast

Just 30 minutes south of Greymouth lies Hokitika, a town known for greenstone carving, beach sunsets, and glowworm dell walks.

Must-sees:
Hokitika Gorge for its surreal turquoise waters.
Driftwood “Hokitika” sign for a classic photo.
Local tip (Hokitika branch): “Try a whitebait fritter - a true West Coast delicacy. The season runs from September to November.”

Continue south along State Highway 6 for one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand.

Day 5–6: Franz Josef & Fox Glaciers

Drive to Westland Tai Poutini National Park to explore two of New Zealand’s most famous glaciers - Franz Josef and Fox Glacier.

Activities:
Guided glacier hikes and heli-hikes for adventurous travellers.
Walks to glacier viewpoints for more relaxed explorers.
Lake Matheson near Fox Glacier - famous for its mirror reflections of Aoraki/Mt Cook.
Local tip (Greymouth/Hokitika branch): “Book glacier activities in advance - weather can change quickly, so flexibility is key.”

The drive down the West Coast is a spectacular one, however, the glaciers are something that cannot be missed, so make sure you plan your timings so that you can maximise your time on the glacier.

Day 7: Queenstown

Drive over the Haast Pass and through Wanaka to reach Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand.

Must-dos:
Ride the Skyline Gondola for sweeping views.
Try a Fergburger (worth the hype!).
Take a short drive to Arrowtown for autumn colours and gold-mining history.
Local tip (Queenstown branch): “If you’re not into bungy jumping, try a jet boat ride on the Shotover River - just as thrilling, but no free-fall required.”

This list barely scratches the surface of the things you can see and do in and around Queenstown. Make sure you check out our post: Best Things to do in Queenstown: Adventure & Scenic Drives

Day 8: Te Anau & Milford Sound

Base yourself in Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park.

Must-sees:
Drive the Milford Road - one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
Cruise on Milford Sound to see waterfalls and dolphins.
Local tip (Te Anau branch): “Leave early for Milford - the drive is just as stunning as the cruise, with plenty of stops for photos.”

The drive to Milford Sound features in our list of Scenic Drives from Queenstown You Can’t Miss, and there are some great stop-off points along the way. The road does get busy with tour buses, so drive carefully and patiently and enjoy the scenery along the way.

Day 9: Dunedin

Head east to Dunedin, a city with Scottish heritage, a lively student vibe, and some of New Zealand’s best wildlife experiences.

Must-sees:
Otago Peninsula for albatross and penguin colonies.
Baldwin Street, once the world’s steepest residential street.
Speight’s Brewery tour for beer lovers.
Local tip (Dunedin branch): “Larnach Castle is worth a visit - New Zealand’s only castle, and the gardens are beautiful year-round.”

Dunedin is a destination that is often overlooked; however, those who make the trip have no regrets. Dunedin is packed with amazing things to see and do and for more ideas, check out our post: Places to Visit Near Dunedin” Coastal Wonders & Wildlife

Day 10: Return or Continue to Nelson/Picton/Blenheim

Wrap up your trip by returning your rental car in Christchurch or Queenstown, or extend your adventure north towards Nelson, Picton, or Blenheim to explore wine country and the Marlborough Sounds.

Local tip (Blenheim branch): “Spend an afternoon cycling between Marlborough’s cellar doors - world-famous Sauvignon Blanc is even better when you drink it at the source.”

If you do have the time to carry on your journey, there are lots of routes you can take around the South Island, including a road trip from Lake Tekapo to Christchurch, and then a route up the east coast via Kaikoura to Nelson or Picton.

Road Trip Planning Tips

Car hire tip: Pick up your rental vehicle from RaD Car Hire in Christchurch, Nelson, or Queenstown for the most flexible itineraries.
Timing: Allow extra time for photo stops - South Island roads are some of the most scenic in the world.
Weather: South Island weather can change quickly, so pack layers and check MetService forecasts.
Driving: New Zealand roads can be narrow and winding - take your time and enjoy the journey.

FAQ – South Island Road Trips

Where’s the best place to start a South Island road trip?

Christchurch, Queenstown, and Nelson are the most popular starting points with airports and RaD Car Hire branches for easy pick-up.

How much driving will I do in 10 days?

Expect 1,800–2,200 km depending on side trips. Break it up with regular stops to enjoy the scenery.

Can I do this trip in winter?

Yes, but check road conditions on alpine passes like Arthur’s Pass and Haast Pass. Chains may be required.

Is it suitable for families?

Absolutely. With short walks, wildlife encounters, and scenic drives, the South Island is great for all ages.

Do I need to book accommodation in advance?

In summer (Dec–Feb) and winter (Jun–Aug), yes. Outside peak times, you’ll have more flexibility.

Final Thoughts

A 10-day South Island road trip is the ultimate way to experience New Zealand’s jaw-dropping landscapes. With the freedom of a rental car, you can explore at your own pace, discover hidden gems, and stop wherever the view takes your breath away, which, spoiler alert, will happen a lot.