15 Must Do's in New Zealand’s South Island

Planning to book a campervan hire for a New Zealand road trip of the South Island? We don’t blame you, it’s a bucket list experience for many. With its azure beaches, majestic mountain ranges, and unique wildlife, the South Island is the perfect destination for a motorhome holiday.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Explore Abel Tasman National Park

Sitting pretty at the top of the South Island, Abel Tasman National Park is like stepping into an Instagram post. Golden beaches hug dense, green forests, offering an unforgettable blend of relaxation and exploration. Fancy paddling across clear blue waters? The kayaking here is top-notch. More of a hiker? The Abel Tasman Coast Track is a real treat.

You’ll want to plan at least a few nights stay here. We suggest booking into Tōtaranui Campground. It's got loads of room and is right on the beach. As night falls, put your feet up with a glass of wine and take in the spectacular sight of a sky full of stars. 

Check out the arts and crafts in Nelson

Known as New Zealand’s sunshine capital, the city of Nelson sits at the top of the South Island, along the eastern shores of Tasman Bay. Not only is Nelson surrounded by stunning natural beauty, it also has a vibrant arts and crafts scene. Stroll through charming galleries showcasing local talent. It's all here, from pottery to paintings, weaving to woodwork. And there’s plenty of opportunity to get involved too. Try your hand at pounamu (greenstone) carving, make your own glass paperweight, or have a go a creating your own watercolour artwork. 

Unwind after a day's exploring at Tāhuna Beach Holiday Park. It's close to town, boasts excellent facilities and – bonus – it's just a stone's throw from the beach.

Meet the wildlife in Kaikōura

Locals and visitors alike will agree that Kaikōura is one of the best places to visit in the South Island. This tiny coastal town is home to an abundance of marine wildlife including whales of all sizes, New Zealand fur seals, dolphins, and marine birds. And one of the best ways to meet some of them is with Kaikōura Wildlife Tours. They offer an assortment of unforgettable experiences such as swimming with playful dusky dolphins or watching the magnificent sperm whales in their natural habitat. And for those keen on birdwatching, it's a real treat with opportunities to spot rare and unique species.

When the day draws to a close, head to Kaikōura TOP 10 Holiday Park. Relax and take in the stunning views, enjoy a spa or sauna, and meet other like-minded travellers. 

Check out the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes

If your New Zealand road trip takes you down the west coast of the South Island, a stop at the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes is a must. These unique limestone formations have taken millions of years to form, resulting in a natural masterpiece that must be seen to be believed. The Blowholes Walk takes you right through these unusual stacks, and, during high tide, you can watch the seawater shooting skyward.

After a day of exploring, spend the night at Punakaiki Beach Camp. The campground is within walking distance of the rocks and has all the modern amenities needed for a comfortable stay.

Take a walk along the Hokitika Gorge

About 30 minutes southeast of the west coast town of Hokitika, you'll find the mesmerising Hokitika Gorge. This stunning destination is famous for its beautiful turquoise waters, flanked by lush native bush. There's something incredibly soothing about the blend of the brilliant water hue, and the dense greenery that surrounds it.

While here, be sure to take the Hokitika Gorge Walk. It's an easy track that leads you to a viewing platform and swing bridge, giving you a fantastic view of the gorge below.

After a day well spent, unwind at Shining Star Beachfront Accommodation. This campsite offers both powered and unpowered campervan sites, along with beachfront access.

Chill out at Franz Josef Glacier

Looking for a cool escape? The Franz Josef Glacier in Westland Tai Poutini National Park is just the place. Known for its ever-changing icy landscape, this glacier offers a world of discovery. Opt for a guided hike or, for a truly unforgettable experience, take a helicopter flight over the glacier. Don't forget your camera – you'll want to capture the stunning icy terrain, hidden ice caves, and deep blue crevasses.

When you're ready to warm up, head to the Rainforest Holiday Park. Not far from the glacier, it's perfectly placed, offering a comfy spot to relax over a steaming cup of cocoa.

Take a helihike at Fox Glacier

For something truly special, book yourself into a Helihike experience of Fox Glacier. Choose from options ranging between a few hours to a full day. You’ll be provided with all the gear needed including leather boots, a waterproof jacket, and walking poles. 

Your helicopter ride will take you to a remote and beautiful spot on the glacier. While you’re there, you can check out the incredible Victoria Falls and the spectacular ice caves and arches.

Just a stone's throw away from the glacier, Fox Glacier TOP 10 Holiday Park is the ideal base camp for exploring this extraordinary natural wonder.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

Go to great heights at Mt Cook/Aoraki

Welcome to the highest peak of New Zealand - Mt Cook/Aoraki. Located in the central South Island, this towering giant stands at 3724 meters. 

There's no shortage of activities here for keen explorers. A popular option is walking the three-hour Hooker Valley Track. If you're a seasoned hiker, the challenging Mueller Hut Route rewards you with panoramic views of the alpine landscape. For a completely different perspective, consider a scenic flight over the glacial valleys and ice-capped peaks. And when night falls, don't forget to look up. The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is one of the best spots in the world for stargazing. 

After a day filled with high-altitude activities, wind down at the Glentanner Park Centre. Situated near the base of Aoraki/Mt Cook, it offers stunning views of the mountain range.

Photograph the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd

Looking for the perfect postcard shot of New Zealand? You'll find it at the Church of the Good Shepherd. Sitting right on the shores of Lake Tekapo, this stone church is one of the best photo locations in New Zealand. Built in 1935 as a memorial to the pioneers of the Mackenzie Country, the church offers a charming glimpse into the past. The iconic landmark has a striking simplicity, which is enhanced by the backdrop of the awe-inspiring Southern Alps and the brilliantly blue waters of the lake.

After capturing your shots, unwind at the Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park. Just a short drive from the church, it offers powered and unpowered sites with unbeatable lake views. 

Admire the scenery at Milford Sound

Located in pristine Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is a must-do on your South Island road trip. 

The park is part of Te Wahipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you'll find dramatic landscapes where towering cliffs rise from dark waters and waterfalls cascade from great heights. Jump on a cruise or, if you're feeling adventurous, kayak across the water to fully appreciate its breathtaking beauty. Don't forget to look out for seals, penguins, and dolphins. 

Spend the night surrounded by rainforest at Milford Sound Lodge. Be sure to book ahead though, this is the Milford Sound’s only accommodation, so spots are snapped up fast. 

Have an adventure in Queenstown

Queenstown is an adrenaline junkie's paradise, renowned for its awesome variety of adventure activities. 

Fancy throwing yourself off a bridge with just a bungee cord attached? Head to Kawarau Bridge Bungy. For those preferring a calmer adventure, a scenic gondola ride or a cruise on Lake Wakatipu offers unrivalled vistas. If heights don't scare you, try paragliding or a helicopter ride for a bird's eye view. 

After a day packed with thrills, rest up at Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park. It's just a 500-metre stroll from town making it a great base to park up and explore.

Go wine tasting in Central Otago

Central Otago, the world's southernmost wine region, is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. We suggest adding Gibbston Valley Winery, famous for its exceptional pinot noir, to your travel itinerary. This popular winery not only offers exquisite wine tastings but also pairs them with mouth-watering food platters. For a glimpse into the winemaking process, book a wine cave tour, and for the more active, the cycle vineyard tour is a must.

When it's time to rest, head to Arrowtown Holiday Park, just a 20-minute drive away. It’s also a great base for exploring the character and history of Arrowtown’s township.

Meet the wildlife at Dunedin’s Otago Peninsula

Just a short drive from Dunedin’s city centre, the Otago Peninsula is a must for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. 

The Otago Peninsula, a captivating landscape of lush grasslands and wind-swept beaches, offers spectacular coastal views. Here, you can spot diverse wildlife including royal albatrosses, yellow-eyed penguins, and even seals basking on the beaches. To learn more about the local wildlife and its conservation, head to the Royal Albatross Centre or Penguin Place.

End your day at the Leith Valley Touring Park, just 20 minutes away. The park has great facilities and is located within a beautiful woodland setting. 

Go underground at Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Located near Lake Te Anau in the South Island, the Te Anau Glowworm Caves are a sight to behold. 

You'll start the experience with a cruise across Lake Te Anau, taking in scenic vistas of mountains and forests before reaching the caves. Once inside, it's a wonderland of glowworms creating a mesmerising light display, stalactite-filled chambers, whirlpools and waterfalls. Formed by the river over 12,000 years ago, these caves are still changing even today, a testament to the raw power of nature.

When you're ready to put your feet up, head to Te Anau Lakeview Kiwi Holiday Park and enjoy a peaceful night.  

Explore Stewart Island

Stewart Island, or Rakiura, sits off the southernmost tip of the South Island. This island may be small, but it's big on beauty. It’s also home to Rakiura National Park, which occupies the majority of the island. Its name Rakiura, translating to 'Glowing Skies', alludes to the breathtaking sunsets and Aurora Australis that can be seen here.

A must-do while you’re here is a wildlife tour to spot kiwi birds in their natural habitat. Stewart Island is home to New Zealand's largest and most accessible kiwi population. Visitors can also hike the numerous trails, take a boat ride around Paterson Inlet, or spend time at the picturesque Observation Rock for stunning sunset views.

While there's no campervan accommodation on the island itself, you can park up at The Bluff Campground on the mainland. To reach Stewart Island, catch the ferry and enjoy the one-hour cruise across Foveaux Strait.

Ready to explore the South Island?

As you can see, the South Island is jam-packed with awesome attractions and adventures. And now that you’ve got some good suggestions on what to add to your travel itinerary, it’s time to make it happen! Take the first step and book your Apollo campervan online today. Then simply pick up your camper from our Christchurch branch near the airport and start enjoying your unforgettable South Island road trip.