The top of the South Island is brimming with beautiful destinations, making it an ideal spot for a New Zealand road trip. From whales and wildlife in Kaikōura to the golden sands and tranquil bushwalks of Abel Tasman National Park, this part of New Zealand is simply magical. 

Travelling by campervan hire is the perfect way to create a travel itinerary that lets you explore at your own pace. You have the freedom to spontaneously stop to take in the southern sights. Call into one of Marlborough’s renowned wineries for a tasting session. Or park up at a scenic beach and make a tasty lunch using fresh produce you’ve bought along the way.  

The jaw-dropping beauty and unique experiences of the South Island can be a lot to take in, but with the right route, you can see its best parts without feeling rushed. To help you get started, we’ve put together this ultimate 11-day South Island road trip itinerary that takes you from Christchurch to Nelson via Kaikōura, then loops back via Hanmer Springs. 

Ready to hit the road? Let's set the wheels in motion…

This unforgettable journey truly does offer something for everyone with a fantastic mix of relaxation and thrill-seeking activities on a journey of discovery from a secluded alpine spa town to the coasts. You will crisscross the vast plains, passing vineyards, rolling hill country and the wonderful clear braided rivers of North Canterbury that lead down to a deserted and unspoiled coastline full of both swimming and surf beaches and amazing wildlife!

The wonderful Waipara wine region might be small, but it is the fastest growing of all of New Zealand's wine regions producing award winning Pinot Noir and Rieslings. While there are some major players in the area, most of the 75 vineyards that inhabit this area are small, boutique wineries producing high end wines for the region. The area is also strewn with olive groves and bright fields of lavender, making this section of North Canterbury quite stunning. 

From the fertile fields to the braided rivers, swimming and surf opportunities, the North Canterbury waterways have it all. Its coastline is filled with little hidden gems while the rivers that come out of the high country provide awesome fresh water swimming and fishing opportunities. 

It’s not all about the countryside however, with two world class towns on this route. Hanmer Springs alpine spa town will spoil and excite you while the quite amazing plethora of sites and wildlife available at Kaikoura, one of the best places to view whales and marine wildlife anywhere in the world will thrill you!  

This route can be accessed by those finishing up the treasured pathway in the North, or the Wild West Coast Road in the West to extend your road trips into longer adventures or it can be done as a loop itinerary from the hub of Christchurch as shown here.  

Starting and finishing in Christchurch, this road trip takes you through the mountain village of Arthur’s Pass with its stunning wilderness and wildlife. On the journey to Arthur’s Pass, you will detour via the French settlement of Akaroa where you’ll experience the town’s rich history and wonderful food.

This camper road trip in the South Island of New Zealand is the perfect starter itinerary for those interested in nature, history, and delicious food. The driving hours for each day are short, with plenty of opportunities for scenic stops each along the way.