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Akaroa
Highlights
- French-inspired harbour town with great cafés and views
- Dolphin cruises and coastal walking tracks
- Perfect day-trip escape from Christchurch
Proximity
- Approx. 1 hr 20 min from Christchurch
Akaroa is the South Island’s little slice of France — a charming harbour town known for its relaxed vibes, stunning peninsula scenery, and wildlife encounters. Whether you're here for a café lunch, a harbour cruise, or a peaceful coastal drive, Akaroa delivers an easy, scenic getaway perfect for a rental car trip.
Arthur’s Pass
Highlights
- Dramatic alpine landscapes
- Popular hikes including Devil’s Punchbowl
- Chance to spot cheeky kea
Proximity
- Approx. 2hrs from Christchurch
Arthur’s Pass is where the Southern Alps come alive. With towering peaks, waterfalls, native bush, and a classic alpine village feel, it’s the ideal route for a scenic mountain drive. Visitors can enjoy short walks or tackle longer hikes, all while experiencing some of the region’s most impressive natural beauty.
Hanmer Springs
Highlights
- Famous thermal hot pools
- Adventure activities and forest walks
- Relaxed alpine village atmosphere
Proximity
- Approx. 1 hr 45 min from Christchurch
Hanmer Springs is the South Island’s relaxation capital, known for its thermal hot pools, spa treatments, and forest-lined walking trails. Whether you’re after a peaceful soak or a day of adventure with jet boating and mountain biking, it’s a rewarding destination within easy reach of Christchurch.
Lake Tekapo
Highlights
- Brilliant turquoise lake
- Church of the Good Shepherd
- Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve
Proximity
- Approx. 2 hr 45 min from Christchurch
Lake Tekapo is famous for its striking turquoise water, snow-capped mountain backdrop, and world-class stargazing. From scenic viewpoints to iconic landmarks and hot pools, Tekapo is a must-visit stop for South Island road-trippers heading toward Mt Cook or Queenstown.
Wanaka
Highlights
- Lakeside town with stunning alpine views
- Endless outdoor activities
- Home of the famous #ThatWanakaTree
Proximity
- Approx. 5 hrs from Christchurch
Wanaka blends outdoor adventure with small-town charm. Surrounded by mountains and sitting right on the edge of Lake Wanaka, it offers hiking, biking, water activities, and beautiful viewpoints. It’s a favourite for travellers looking for a laid-back alternative to Queenstown with equally unforgettable scenery.
Arrowtown
Highlights
- Historic gold-mining village
- Beautiful autumn colours
- Boutique shops and cafés
Proximity
- Approx. 5 hr 15 min from Christchurch
Arrowtown is a beautifully preserved gold-rush village with cobbled streets, history, and character at every corner. Set beneath leafy trees with mountain views, it’s the perfect place for a wander, a great meal, and a taste of early New Zealand charm — just minutes from Queenstown.
Queenstown
Highlights
- Adventure capital of New Zealand
- Stunning lake and alpine scenery
- World-class dining, wineries, and activities
Proximity
- Approx. 6 hrs from Christchurch
Queenstown is the South Island’s superstar destination, known for adrenaline activities, breathtaking landscapes, and a buzzing lakefront town centre. Whether you’re here for bungy jumping, skiing, or simply soaking up the views, Queenstown offers something for every type of traveller.
Dunedin
Highlights
- Scottish heritage city
- Rare wildlife including penguins and albatross
- Historic architecture and coastal scenery
Proximity
- Approx. 4 hr 45 min from Christchurch
Dunedin blends culture, history, and nature with its grand buildings, quirky cafés, and access to the wildlife-rich Otago Peninsula. It’s a great southern city to explore by car, offering beaches, lookout points, and unique attractions you won’t find elsewhere in New Zealand.
Milford Sound
Highlights
- One of NZ’s most iconic natural wonders
- Dramatic fiords, waterfalls, and sheer cliffs
- Scenic cruises and photo opportunities
Proximity
- Approx. 3 hr 45 min from Queenstown
Milford Sound is a bucket-list destination where towering peaks meet deep, dark waters. A scenic drive through Fiordland National Park leads to this world-famous fiord, known for its misty waterfalls and unforgettable cruise experiences. It’s remote, spectacular, and absolutely worth the journey.
West Coast
Highlights
- Wild beaches and rugged landscapes
- Glacier access at Franz Josef & Fox
- Punakaiki Pancake Rocks
Proximity
- Approx. 3 hrs from Christchurch
The West Coast is one of New Zealand’s most dramatic regions, offering a rough-and-rugged coastline, ancient rainforests, and glacier country. The drive over Arthur’s Pass alone is a highlight, and once you’re on the Coast, you’ll find plenty of natural wonders to explore at your own pace.
Nelson
Highlights
- Sunniest region of NZ
- Gateway to Abel Tasman National Park
- Art, culture, and local food
Proximity
- Approx. 5 hr 30 min from Christchurch (via Picton)
Nelson is a warm, creative city known for its sunshine, beaches, and access to the golden sands of Abel Tasman National Park. With a vibrant arts scene, outdoor activities, and great local food, it’s an ideal destination for travellers exploring the top of the South Island.
