Top Places to Explore in the South Island

The landscape of New Zealand can be as dramatic as your time spent here. The opportunities for jaw-dropping views and adrenaline-fuelled activities are around each corner. This is a place for an ultimate road trip adventure, and we have gathered top attractions to see with your brand-new camper. 

NELSON

It is known as the sunniest town in New Zealand, so get your tan on and get ready to look fabulous in all the pictures you’re about to take on this incredible island. You’ll also find Abel Tasman National Park nearby, a great place for walkers with many accessible established routes. On your way to or from Nelson, make sure to explore The Queen Charlotte Drive that starts/finishes in Picton. It’s only 40-kilometer stretch, but well worth your time. 

KAIKOURA

It’s a paradise for marine wildlife enthusiasts. You can spot whales, dolphins, sea lions, and seals from the top of Point Kean, or if you’re brave enough, get into the water and become one with nature. 

AORAKI / MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK

You will reach Aoraki/ Mt Cook Village after a magnificent drive by Lake Pukaki. Whether you’re here to train for your next alpine adventure like Sir Edmund Hillary did or to gaze at glaciers from a helicopter – this is the place to be. And don’t rush to leave this paradise – it gets even better in the dark! Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is part of New Zealand’s only Dark Sky Reserve. 

CHRISTCHURCH

Christchurch is a unique city combining the old and the new. It’s full of innovation, bustling street art, culture, and adrenaline-fueled activities. Christchurch is a natural base camp for South Island exploration; however, if you’re not a fan of cities, you can escape to Canterbury Plains as soon as you stock up in town. 

AKAROA

It’s a charming, lovely town about an hour and a half away from Christchurch. It has a lot of history and colonial architecture, as it was the only French settlement in New Zealand. Head on a self-guided tour until you find Barrys Bay Cheese, where you can indulge in award-winning goodness. 

WESTPORT

Another small town with a rich history. It was founded as a gold town, to be continued as a coal town. However, it is best known these days for extreme adventures such as caving, jet boating, white water rafting, etc. You might even be so lucky to spot a seal colony living nearby!

HOKITIKA

It is well known for Jade stone, and you can visit craft workshops where magic happens. This might be the place if you need to stock up on unique souvenirs!

WANAKA

It’s a famous spot for photographers and nature lovers alike. It has everything you need, just without the crowds of Queenstown. Stick around this area if you’re not ready to return to civilization. There are plenty of hikes and nature activities to keep you occupied. For example, stop at Lake Wakatipu or Glenorchy for a scenic picnic.