New Zealand is one of the best countries in the world for road tripping and its South Island is particularly incredible.
A place of spectacular coastlines, majestic alpine scenery and charming towns that appear frozen in time, the South Island also accommodates the friendliest people in the country and a standard of food and wine that ranks among the best in the world.
Arguably the best stretch of road to explore is the section that incorporates the Dunedin to Queenstown Drive, which features landscapes of pristine natural beauty, that will break you out into goosebumps.
If this is something you intend to do, here are the top eight places you should make a point of visiting. (Oversees tourists, just remember, they drive on the left-hand side of the road in New Zealand!).
Best Time to Go
In New Zealand, spring takes place between September and November, while autumn runs from March to May. While the drive from Dunedin to Queenstown is one you can do all year round, these seasons represent the best months to do it.
The weather at this time is generally very pleasant for driving and exploring the region on foot, while the South Island’s landscape comes alive with the vibrant colours of blossoming flowers and changing leaves, respectively. Due to children being back at school, you will also find these seasons are less crowded than in the summer and hotel prices tend to be cheaper too.
Talking of summer, it can get warm on the South Island of New Zealand, and traffic on the road can become heavy in certain regions during this time. However, with more daylight available, you can spend longer appreciating the region’s exquisite natural beauty.
Those wanting to embark upon this road trip in winter should be mindful that snow can make certain parts of the region impassable, especially on remote back roads. For this reason, snow chains are a must for all vehicles and it’s essential to take plenty of provisions and warm clothes with you in the car.
Top 8 Places To See
For the purpose of this article we are going to leave out Dunedin and Queenstown and just focus on the stops in between the two destinations. They are not presented in the order that you will reach them if you embark on the journey along State Route 8, but rather in order of the best places to see when driving around the region.
1. Lindis Pass
There is a touch of Glen Coe in Scotland about Lindis Pass, a road that takes you through an enchanting landscape of rolling, tussock-covered hills and vast open spaces that change colour with the seasons.
If you are into scenic and peaceful drives, this area is perfect for you to explore. Its unspoiled nature and sheer grandeur will enchant you from the second you encounter it. In spring and summer, the area is awash with verdant greenery. However, by the time autumn rolls around, the landscape turns golden, while winter covers it in a blanket of snow.
You’ll want to stop regularly to take in everything you see, so plan on scheduling several hours to drive through the region.
2. Lake Tekapo
The sapphire waters of Lake Tekapo will mesmerise you. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself with a lump in your throat because the sight of the sparkling waterway against the backdrop of the Southern Alps is utterly breathtaking.
The area is famous for housing the Church of the Good Shepherd, which is nestled on the lake’s shoreline in true Insta-worthy fashion. But if religious structures are not your thing, you might prefer to relax in the nearby hot springs, which also showcase scintillating views of the surrounding mountains.
If your schedule permits, try to spend some time here at night. As evening draws in, Lake Tekapo transforms into a Dark Sky Reserve, offering magnificent opportunities to view the cosmos with incredible clarity.
3. Kawarau Gorge
If you have an adventurous spirit and a head for heights, then make a point of visiting the Kawarau Gorge. This place is synonymous with an adventure sport that has become a global phenomenon that attracts thousands of thrill seekers from around the world every year – bungee jumping.
The world’s first commercial bungee jump took place here in November 1988, off the historic Kawarau Bridge and above the turquoise waters of the Kawarau River. If you are up for it, the thrill of leaping off this iconic bridge and hurtling towards the water at break-neck speed is a rush you’ll struggle to find elsewhere.
Even if you don’t fancy doing it yourself, witnessing other daredevils take the plunge is captivating viewing.
4. Aoraki
Aoraki (aka Mount Cook), is New Zealand’s highest and most dramatic peak.
It is located within the spectacular Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, which is about a three hours drive north of Queenstown and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
It is a popular destination with photographers, nature lovers and mountaineers as the area is defined by rugged alpine landscapes that have barely changed over millions of years.
Best explored on foot, there are several hiking trails that run through it. They range from family-friendly paths that require only a moderate level of fitness to complete to those that will challenge even the most experienced of wayfarers.
Between them, these trails showcase exceptional views of picturesque glaciers, snow-capped peaks and shimmering, turquoise lakes. One of the most popular trails to tackle is The Hooker Valley Track. It takes you to various lookout points where you can marvel at the sight of imperious mountains and dramatic glacial valleys, best viewed at sunrise.
5. Waitaki Valley
If you love wine you’ll enjoy the drive through the scenic Waitaki Valley. The region is home to several world-class wineries and cellar doors that are famous for their award-winning Pinot Noir or Pinot Gris. Take the opportunity to taste and buy any that take your fancy.
For those who aren’t a big fan of wine, it is still worth exploring the area. This beautiful region is surrounded by the Southern Alps, while the Waitaki River further adds to the overall visual appeal, making it a terrific place to photograph or appreciate over a picnic.
Elsewhere, the Waitaki Whitestone Geopark, known for its unique limestone formations, mysterious caves and captivating, expansive landscapes are also worth checking out.
6. The Boulders at Moeraki
Make sure you check out the Moeraki Boulders. You’ll find these spherical marvels dotted along Koekohe Beach, which is situated between Moeraki and Hampden.
Shaped by millions of years of natural erosion, the boulders range in size from small to massive. Local Maori mythology suggests they are petrified gourds and eel baskets, and their presence creates a unique and surreal spectacle against the sandy shoreline.
The best time to see the boulders is at low tide when their shapes are completely exposed, thus enabling you to appreciate their full size.
7. Lake Pukaki
Lake Pukaki is a must-see destination which you will no doubt take dozens of pictures of. The stunning view of the rugged mountain reflecting on the lake’s turquoise surface is a sight to behold and can keep you captivated for hours.
The lake is situated at the foothills of the Southern Alps and is fed by glacial runoff, which gives it its dazzling colour. The finely ground rock particles contribute to the spectacular contrast it creates with the surrounding mountainscape.
While you can drive along the shoreline or explore the walking trails that lead off from it, the best way to enjoy Lake Pukaki is arguably to lay down a blanket, have a picnic, and dine beside the turquoise water against the backdrop of the snow-capped peaks. This experience will be unforgettable!
8. Oamaru
The town of Oamaru has a very Victorian-era feel. Its cobbled streets and gas streetlamps are just like something from a Dickens novel, while its Whitestone buildings – constructed from local limestone – exude an old-world charm.
The nostalgic ambience of this flourishing port town, the largest in North Otago, will instantly seduce you. Take the opportunity to check out the Victorian Precinct, the Oamaru Public Gardens, its two penguin colonies and the famous Steampunk HQ Museum whilst you are there.
Final Thoughts
As you can see there are plenty of sites, attractions and landmarks you can see during the drive between Dunedin and Queenstown.
While you might be eager to travel from one destination to another it is worth remember that it is not a race! So take you time to savour and appreciate the places that make the South Island such a wonderful place to explore.
