Highlights: Lake Tekapo — Lake Pukaki — Lake Ohau — Lake Wānaka — Lake Wakatipu — Lake Dunstan — Lake Paringa — Lake Kaniere
An Adventure of Turquoise Tranquility, and Magnificent Views.
This ten-day Christchurch to Queenstown road trip guides you along to some of the best lakes the South Island has to offer. From glacial-fed lakes to human-made reservoirs, and turquoise hues to dark blue tones — this trip will highlight magnificent bodies of water.
Overall Highlights:
Lakes-
This itinerary highlights some of the most beautiful lakes on the South Island, including Lake Tekapo, Lake Pukaki, Lake Wānaka, Lake Wakatipu, Lake Dunstan, and many more.
Scenic Drives-
From the winding roads over the Crown Range to the dramatic Haast Pass, you’ll be surrounded by jaw-dropping alpine landscapes and tranquil lakesides.
Activities-
Hiking, cycling, stargazing, fishing, and wine tasting are all part of the adventure, giving you the opportunity to explore at your own pace.
Key Highlights Along the Way:
Lake Heron, Mount Sunday, Dark Sky Reserve, Mount John, Lake Pukaki, Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Museum, Hooker Valley Track, Alps to Ocean Cycle Trail, Ohau Snow Field, Omarama Clay Cliffs, Matukituki Valley, Crown Range Road, Queenstown’s Cycle Trails, Lake Wakatipu, Skyline Gondola and Luge, Lake Dunstan Trail, Blue Pools Track, Haast Pass Lookout Track, Lake Matheson Walk, Hokitika Gorge, Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area
Are these lakeside highlights enough to get you excited for your roadtrip?
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Day 1: Christchurch to Ashburton Lakes
Theme: From the Sea to the Mountains
Your lake adventure begins by crossing New Zealand’s longest bridge — the Rakaia River Bridge — on State Highway 1 (SH1) south of Christchurch. A turn towards the mountains onto Thompsons Track follows at Rakaia township.
Enjoy the experience of Canterbury Plains farmland as sheep and cows graze much of these fields. Consider taking Line Road to the small winter hangout town of Methven. It’s an ideal base for accessing Mount Hutt — often voted New Zealand’s best ski resort.
Suggested Stops Along the Way:
- Methven: Stop for coffee. The Topp Country Cafe offers a charming experience, Or Primo e Secundo provides quirky, immersive surroundings.
- Mount Somers Village: Continue south to reach signage for Lake Clearwater, the most popular of the Ashburton Lakes.
- Hakatere Conservation Park: Turn west at Mount Somers into the heart of this park.
Things to Do at the Ashburton Lakes:
- Lake Clearwater: A trail circumnavigates the lake where you can enjoy fishing, photography, or even ice skating in winter.
- Mount Sunday: Hike to this iconic spot with expansive 360-degree views.
- Lake Heron: The largest of the Ashburton Lakes, this is a popular spot for trout and salmon fishing.
- Explore More Lakes: Discover lakes Clearwater, Camp, Emma, Heron, Roundabout, Emily, plus Maori and Spider Lakes.
- Hakatere Conservation Park: Established in 2007, This 68,000-hectare park features clear streams, red tussock, braided rivers, and wetlands. The alpine habitat is home to rare native species.
Travel Details for Day 1: Distance: 143 km | Travel Time: 1 hour 52 minutes
Stay: Lake Clearwater and Lake Camp campgrounds: Unpowered lakeside spots where you can wake up to stunning scenery.
Directions: Take SH1 to Rakaia. Follow Thompsons Track to Mount Somers, then drive Ashburton Gorge Road, which becomes the gravel Hakatere Potts Road leading to Lake Clearwater.
Day 2: Ashburton Lakes to Lake Tekapo
Theme: High Country Lakes to Glacial Lakes
The wonders of the Ashburton Lakes and the beauty of sunrise and sunset might tempt you to linger longer. However, Day 2 takes you on a drive from these high-country lakes to glacial lakes.
The drive to Lake Tekapo is just over two hours, with several noteworthy stops along the way.
Suggested Stops Along the Route:
- Geraldine: A quaint town on the edge of the foothills. Stock up on local produce, such as Barker’s chutneys, preserves, and dessert sauces.
- Fairlie: Time your journey to enjoy an early lunch here. The Fairlie Bakehouse is famous for its next-level pies, offering unique flavors such as salmon and bacon, pork belly with apple sauce, and smoked chicken with mushrooms.
- Burkes Pass: This tiny sub-alpine village offers historical points of interest and a fascinating store, Three Creeks, showcasing art, retro items, and wooden collectables.
Things to Do at Lake Tekapo:
Stargazing: Experience the Southern Hemisphere’s largest dark sky reserve. Look to the stars in unmatched clarity.
Tekapo Springs: Enjoy soaking in hot pools, ice skating, or snow tubing. After dark, take a swim under the starry skies.
Mount John: Hike up this vantage point for 360-degree views over the lake and surrounding area.
Lake Tekapo Scenic Drive: Take the gravel road along the eastern side of the lake to Roundhill Ski Area for spectacular views.
Church of the Good Shepherd: Photograph this iconic lakeside church against a breathtaking backdrop.
Hidden Gem Camping: Consider staying at Lake Alexandrina campground for a secluded stargazing experience.
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Historical Note: Originally known as Te Kopi Opihito, Lake Tekapo has seen several name changes throughout its history. The name “Burkes Pass” comes from settler Michael Burke, whose suggestion in the late 19th century ultimately stuck.
Travel Details for Day 2: Distance: 170 km | Travel Time: 2 hours 14 minutes
Stay: Lakes Edge Holiday Park, Lake Alexandrina Campground, Lake McGregor Campervan Site
Directions: From Mount Somers Village, turn onto Inland Scenic Route 72 (SH72) to Geraldine. From there, follow the Geraldine-Fairlie Highway to SH8, which leads to Lake Tekapo.
Day 3: Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook
Theme: The Middle of the Alps of the Southern Hemisphere
Start your day early as you head toward New Zealand’s tallest mountain, Aoraki/Mount Cook. This drive offers a stunning contrast between the deep blue waters of Lake Tekapo and the turquoise hues of Lake Pukaki, both fed by melted glacial water.
Make time to stop at the Lake Pukaki Visitor Centre, where you can enjoy activities like boulder-hopping, swimming, or simply soaking in the serene views of the lake with Mount Cook as a backdrop.
Things to Do in Mount Cook:
- Tasman Lake Hike: Take in views of the Tasman Glacier and spot floating icebergs in the lake.
- Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Museum: Located at The Hermitage Hotel, this museum celebrates the legacy of the famous mountaineer and explorer.
- Hooker Valley Track: A scenic walk featuring three swing bridges leading to Hooker Lake, which sits in the shadow of Aoraki/Mount Cook.
- Scenic Flights: Fly over Mount Cook National Park to marvel at the glaciers and peaks from above.
- Kayak or Boat Ride on Tasman Lake: Experience the lake’s tranquility and see icebergs up close.
- Cycle the Alps 2 Ocean Trail: Start the trail’s first section downhill from White Horse Hill Campground to the local airport.
Fun Tip: Lake Pukaki’s shoreline is abundant with smooth, flat stones—perfect for skimming! Pull over at one of the freedom camping spots for a nostalgic moment of skipping stones across the turquoise waters.
Travel Details for Day 3: Distance: 103 km | Travel Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Stay: White Horse Hill Campground: Positioned near trailheads with stunning views of Mount Cook.
Directions: Drive southwest along SH8 toward Lake Pukaki. Turn right onto SH80 after the visitor centre and follow this road to Mount Cook Village.
Day 4: Mount Cook to Lake Ohau
Theme: The Windy Lake
On Day 4, your journey takes you to Lake Ohau, located on the boundary between Otago and Canterbury. The name “Ohau” means “windy place” in Māori, and true to its name, the area can experience strong winds. A campervan provides excellent shelter, especially when parked near protective trees.
As you leave Mount Cook Village, driving back along SH80 offers a fresh perspective on one of New Zealand’s most scenic routes.
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Suggested Stops Along the Way:
- High Country Salmon (near Twizel): A great place to pick up fresh salmon for dinner or even try your hand at fishing.
- Lake Ohau Road: Follow this road to your lakeside destination, enjoying peaceful views along the way.
Things to Do at Lake Ohau:
- Lake Ohau Track: Stroll along this lakeside trail, which offers panoramic views of Ben Ohau Peak.
- Ohau Snow Fields (Winter Only): Ski or snowboard on one of New Zealand’s most scenic ski fields.
- Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail: Ride sections three or four of this renowned cycling trail for breathtaking scenery.
- Stargazing: Lake Ohau is part of the official Dark Sky Reserve, offering incredible views of the night sky with minimal light pollution.
Cultural Note: The prominent peak near the lake, Ben Ohau, is known as Te Ruataniwha in Māori. According to legend, Te Ruataniwha was an ancestor aboard a waka (canoe) that capsized on the Otago coastline. Unable to return to the waka before sunrise, Te Ruataniwha was transformed into the mountain.
Travel Details for Day 4: Distance: 94 km | Travel Time: 1 hour 6 minutes
Stay: Round Bush Campsite or Lake Middleton Campsite: Both are idyllic waterfront camping options.
Directions: Return south on SH80, then continue down SH8 to Lake Ohau Road. Follow this road to your lakeside campsite.
Day 5: Lake Ohau to Lake Wānaka
Theme: Over the Lindis
On Day 5, your journey leads you from Lake Ohau into the stunning Otago region, traveling through the Lindis Pass. This route provides incredible views of tussock-covered mountains and peaceful countryside.
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Suggested Stops Along the Way:
- Ōmarama: Known for glider flights due to its open spaces and natural updrafts. If you’ve ever wanted to experience gliding, this is one of the world’s best spots. The soaring season lasts from October to March, with ideal times between 1–4 PM.
- Omarama Clay Cliffs: These striking geological formations have been featured in movies such as Mulan. They’re worth a detour for a short walk and photos.
- Lindis Pass: The second mountain pass on this trip offers surreal, otherworldly scenery. Be sure to stop at one of the rest points to take in the view.
Things to Do in Lake Wānaka:
- That Wānaka Tree: Don’t miss the famous lone tree growing in the lake—perfect for a postcard-worthy photo.
- Puzzling World: A unique attraction featuring brain teasers, mazes, and quirky illusions for all ages.
- Hiking: Popular trails include the Mount Iron loop track and Roys Peak, both offering spectacular views.
- Glendhu Bay: Drive to this serene spot and consider staying at the Glendhu Bay Motor Camp for a peaceful lakeside experience.
- Matukituki Valley: Spend time exploring Mount Aspiring National Park, where hikes like the Rob Roy Glacier Track and trails to Aspiring Hut provide breathtaking landscapes.
Travel Details for Day 5: Distance: 146 km | Travel Time: 1 hour 47 minutes
Stay: Albert Town Campground: A quieter option near the Clutha River, away from the crowds.
Directions: Drive back along Lake Ohau Road to SH8. Continue southwest over Lindis Pass to Tarras. Turn right past the town onto SH8A, which becomes SH6 and leads you to Lake Wānaka.
Day 6: Lake Wānaka to Queenstown
Theme: A Giant of a Lake
Day 6 takes you from Lake Wānaka to Queenstown via the Crown Range, New Zealand’s highest main road. This zigzagging route reaches an altitude of 1121 meters, offering incredible views along the way.
Suggested Stops Along the Way:
- Cardrona Hotel: Stop for breakfast at one of New Zealand’s oldest hotels, a remnant of the region’s gold rush era.
- Cardrona Alpine Resort: A favorite for skiing in winter, the resort also offers mountain biking trails in summer.
- The Famous Bra Fence: A quirky roadside attraction near Cardrona that’s hard to miss.
- Crown Range Lookout: Pull over at this scenic spot to catch your first glimpse of Lake Wakatipu in the distance. If the Crown Range is too challenging due to winter snow or ice, you can take the alternative highway via Cromwell, which stays at a lower altitude.
Things to Do in Queenstown:
- Lake Wakatipu Shoreline: Stroll along the shoreline, enjoy food vendors, or take a lake cruise.
- Cycle to Wineries: Follow Queenstown’s cycle trails to taste local pinot noir along the Kawarau Gorge.
- Arrowtown: Visit this charming historic town, best enjoyed during autumn when its tree-lined streets glow with vibrant colors.
- Lake Hayes Walkway: Run, walk, or bike around this tranquil lake, a hidden gem near Queenstown.
- Glenorchy Drive: Follow one of New Zealand’s most scenic roads along Lake Wakatipu to Glenorchy.
- Skyline Gondola and Luge: Ride the gondola to Bob’s Peak for panoramic views, and race back down on the Skyline Luge.
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Fun Fact: Lake Wakatipu’s name translates to “trough of the giant,” referencing the Māori legend of its creation. According to the story, a taniwha (monster) burned a trench into the land, which later filled with water, forming the lake.
Travel Details for Day 6: Distance: 69 km | Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Stay: Driftaway Queenstown: A newly opened lakeside campsite with stunning views.
Directions: Take the Cardrona Valley Road south out of Wānaka, which becomes the Crown Range Road. Rejoin SH6 at the end of the road to reach Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown.
Day 7: Queenstown to Lake Dunstan
Theme: The Return North
On Day 7, you’ll head north toward Lake Dunstan, a man-made lake created during the construction of the Clyde Dam in the 1980s and 1990s. This day offers an easy drive with plenty of opportunities for scenic stops along the way.
Suggested Stops Along the Way:
- Kawarau Bridge Bungy: This is the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping, a must-see for thrill-seekers.
- Gibbston Valley Winery: Stop for wine tasting at one of the most famous vineyards in the area, known for its excellent Pinot Noir.
- Peregrine Wines: Another popular winery worth visiting for its stunning architecture and award-winning wines.
- Roaring Meg Power Station: Continue through the gorge to this historic site and stop at the nearby ANZAC Memorial for some scenic history.
- Goldfields Mining Centre (near Cromwell): Step back in time and try your hand at gold panning in the area that was once a booming gold mining hub.
Things to Do at Lake Dunstan:
- Lake Dunstan Trail: One of New Zealand’s most spectacular cycling trails, this route features tight corners, high climbs, and lakeside spots for relaxation.
- Relax by the Lake: Park up at a BBQ area or take a dip from one of the many jetties located along the shore.
- Cromwell Heritage Precinct: Explore the town’s historic main street, which retains much of its 1800s charm with stone buildings, galleries, cafes, and barns.
- Mrs. Jones’ Fruit Stall: A local favorite for fresh fruit, especially stone fruit, as Cromwell is known as New Zealand’s stone fruit capital.
Travel Details for Day 7: Distance: 62 km | Travel Time: 52 minutes
Stay: Bendigo or Lowburn Harbour Campsites: Both offer freedom camping by the water for a peaceful overnight experience.
Directions: Leave Queenstown and head back on SH6 through Kawarau Gorge to Cromwell. Follow the road to Lake Dunstan.
Day 9: Lake Paringa to Lake Kaniere
Theme: The Wild West Coast
On Day 9, you’ll continue your adventure along the West Coast, traveling through rugged and remote landscapes. The drive from Haast to Hokitika offers dramatic scenery, with mountains, beaches, and forest.
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Suggested Stops Along the Way:
- Bruce Bay: A lovely stop with stunning sea views from the rock boulder stop bank. It’s also a great place to stretch your legs, although watch out for the pesky sandflies!
- Fox and Franz Josef Glaciers: These famous glaciers are easily accessible with well-maintained trails and multiple viewpoints for you to admire the icy landscapes.
- Lake Matheson: A short walk around this stunning lake offers spectacular views of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, making it one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand.
- Ōkārito: A small, charming settlement where you can stop for a picnic lunch. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Southern Alps, with Mount Cook and Mount Tasman clearly visible in the distance.
- Hokitika: Known for its greenstone (pounamu) and an excellent place to shop for locally crafted jewelry and souvenirs. Wander around this artsy town to explore galleries and boutiques.
Things to Do at Lake Kaniere:
- Lake Kaniere Short Walks: There are several short walks around the lake that offer beautiful forest and lakeside views.
- Dorothy Falls: A picturesque waterfall located near the lake, with an inviting swimming hole that is perfect for a quick dip.
- Hokitika Gorge: Explore the famous Hokitika Gorge with its striking blue-green waters. The suspension bridge offers great views of the gorge and surrounding podocarp forest.
- West Coast Wilderness Trail: For cycling enthusiasts, this trail passes by the northern edge of Lake Kaniere and offers scenic views of the surrounding region.
Travel Details for Day 9: Distance: 242 km | Travel Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Stay: Hans Bay Campsite (Lake Kaniere): A peaceful, grassy lakeside campground with serene views.
Directions: Drive north on SH6 to Hokitika, then take Stafford Street, which becomes Lake Kaniere Road, all the way to the lake.
Day 10: Lake Kaniere to Christchurch
Theme: Engineering a Way Over the Pass
On your final day, you’ll travel from the wild West Coast back to Christchurch, crossing the Southern Alps via the highly-engineered Arthur’s Pass. This route is historically significant and offers some of the most spectacular alpine scenery in New Zealand.
Suggested Stops Along the Way:
- Otira Stagecoach Hotel: Stop at this iconic hotel with a giant Gollum figure on its roof. Built in 1902, it offers a glimpse into the past and serves as a reminder of New Zealand’s early history.
- Arthur’s Pass Village: A small alpine village with cafes and interesting walks, such as the Devil’s Punchbowl Walking Track, which leads to the impressive Punchbowl Falls.
- Kura Tawhiti Conservation Area (Castle Hill): This area is renowned for its dramatic limestone rock formations. It’s a fantastic spot to explore on foot, with plenty of opportunities for photos and adventure.
- Porters Pass: If it’s winter, this area provides a great location for playing in the snow. The views from the top of the pass are stunning, with snow-covered mountains in the distance.
Things to Do in Christchurch:
- International Antarctic Centre: If you have time before your flight, this is a fun and educational stop to learn more about Antarctica and New Zealand’s role in polar exploration.
- Hagley Park: A lovely place for a stroll through the heart of Christchurch. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxing walk or a picnic in the park.
- Port Hills & Summit Road: For panoramic views of Christchurch and the Canterbury Plains, drive up to the Port Hills and along Summit Road.
- New Brighton or Sumner Beach: End your journey with a refreshing sea breeze and a beach walk at these coastal spots.
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Travel Details for Day 10: Distance: 267 km | Travel Time: 3 hours 41 minutes
Stay: South Brighton Holiday Park or freedom camping spots along Marine Parade for a seaside experience before you return your motorhome.
Directions: From Hokitika, head north on SH6 and then take the Great Alpine Highway (SH73) over the Southern Alps to Christchurch.
End of Your Journey
Congratulations! You’ve completed a stunning 10-day campervan adventure, taking in some of the most beautiful lakes, mountains, and views New Zealand has to offer. We hope this journey has provided you with lasting memories and inspiration to explore more of the South Island.
Ready to embark on your unforgettable 10-day journey through New Zealand’s South Island? With Dundee Adventure, you can book the perfect campervan tailored to your needs and begin your adventure with confidence. Whether you’re exploring the breathtaking lakes, hiking through mountain passes, or simply enjoying the stunning landscapes, we’ve got you covered.
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Let us help you make the most of your New Zealand road trip. We look forward to being part of your journey!
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