New Zealand South Island Road Trip: Itinerary, Stops and Campervan Tips

A Two-Week Micro Campervan Adventure Across the South Island with our ambassador, Lucinda Norris (@vanlifewithluci)

'I recently explored New Zealand’s South Island in a hybrid hire micro campervan, travelling from Christchurch through alpine passes, temperate rainforest, glacial rivers and iconic fjords.

The journey combined Department of Conservation campsites, paid holiday parks and certified freedom camping, offering a realistic look at what it takes to road trip responsibly in one of the world’s most environmentally protected destinations.

This guide outlines the route, key stops, campsite types and practical considerations for those planning a similar New Zealand campervan adventure. As well as that, Lucinda put together a helpful video on insuring a campervan abroad, featuring some extra footage of her trip to New Zealand.

Why road trip New Zealand’s South Island?

New Zealand’s South Island is widely regarded as one of the most scenic road trip destinations in the world. Within a single day’s drive, travellers can experience snowcapped alpine passes, wild west coast beaches, glacier-fed rivers and waterfalls, vast mirror-like lakes and dramatic fjords.

However, infrastructure differs significantly from European road trips. Towns are sparse, fuel stations can be far apart, and camping regulations are strictly enforced, which means preparation is essential.

New Zealand South Island Road trip route overview

Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass, Hokitika, Haast, Blue Pools, Wānaka, Queenstown and Milford Sound.

1. Christchurch to Arthur’s Pass

The drive inland from Christchurch climbs steadily into the Southern Alps via Arthur’s Pass.

Driving time is approximately two hours.

Key features include winding alpine highways, short mountain walks from the village, scenic viaduct crossings and native wildlife such as kea parrots.

This stretch sets the tone for a landscape-driven itinerary.

2. West Coast via Hokitika and Haast

Descending towards the Tasman Sea, the scenery transitions into dense rainforest and rugged coastline.

Notable stops include Hokitika Gorge, known for its striking turquoise glacial waters, and Fantail Falls, an accessible roadside waterfall.

Fuel planning is important here because petrol stations are limited along this stretch.

3. Blue Pools and Wānaka

The Blue Pools are accessed via a short forest walk and are renowned for exceptionally clear water.

Continuing east leads to Wānaka, a lakeside town offering lakeside campsites for self-contained vehicles, scenic walking trails and access to Mount Aspiring National Park.

Driving time from Haast is approximately two and a half hours.

4. Queenstown and Scenic Flights

Often referred to as New Zealand’s adventure capital, Queenstown offers access to alpine activities, including scenic helicopter flights over Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables.

Accommodation options include holiday parks with powered sites, nearby DOC campsites and certified freedom camping areas.

5. Milford Sound and Fiordland

The drive to Milford Sound is frequently described as one of the most scenic highways in the world.

Recommended stops include Lake Marion, a rewarding alpine hike, and Cascade Creek Campsite, a DOC campsite with basic facilities.

Facilities at DOC sites typically include drop toilets, untreated water taps and hard-standing parking. Electricity hookups are uncommon.

Campervan Hire, Excess and Insurance Considerations

Hiring a campervan in New Zealand is straightforward, but understanding the insurance structure is essential.

Most rental companies include basic insurance with a high excess, often ranging between NZD 3,000 and 7,500. To reduce this liability, travellers are typically offered daily excess reduction packages, windscreen and tyre cover add ons, single vehicle rollover cover and gravel road protection.

These upgrades can significantly increase the daily hire cost.

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As an alternative, some travellers choose to keep the standard excess and purchase specialist excess insurance separately before travelling. This can offer reimbursement protection at a lower overall cost, however policy terms should always be checked carefully, particularly regarding gravel roads and remote areas, which are common on the South Island.

When planning a road trip involving alpine passes, changing weather and remote highways, understanding what is and is not covered is essential.

New Zealand Campsite Types Explained

DOC Campsites

Book via the official DOC website. Facilities are basic and affordable, and powered sites are uncommon.

Holiday Parks

These offer powered hookups, showers and communal kitchens, although nightly costs are higher.

Freedom Camping

This is permitted only in certified self-contained vehicles. It is strictly regulated, waste facilities are limited, and fines apply for non-compliance.

Apps such as CamperMate and Park4Night are useful for checking permitted locations.

My Advice, Top Tips for a South Island Campervan Trip

• Book key DOC sites early in peak season.
• Check your vehicle certification before freedom camping.
• Factor insurance excess into your hire budget.
• Plan fuel stops carefully on the West Coast.
• Allow extra time for weather delays in Fiordland.
• Download offline maps due to limited signal coverage.
• Respect Leave No Trace principles at all times.

New Zealand’s South Island rewards those who prepare well. Careful planning, suitable insurance protection and realistic driving expectations will help ensure your journey is as smooth as the scenery is dramatic.’