A 2 Week South Island New Zealand Itinerary for Solo Travellers
I spent four months living and working in Auckland before I visited New Zealand’s South Island (don’t judge me!). I discovered a place where the landscapes are vast and the roads are winding, so journeys take more time than the map suggests. This is the 2 week South Island New Zealand itinerary I’d recommend for solo travellers visiting for the first time.
Quick overview of this 2 week South Island itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Christchurch and explore the city
- Day 2: Travel to Kaikoura for whale watching — overnight in Kaikoura
- Day 3: Return to Christchurch
- Day 4: Christchurch to Marahau, gateway to Abel Tasman National Park
- Day 5: Free day in Abel Tasman — hike the coastal track to Anchorage Bay
- Day 6: West Coast drive via Punakaiki Pancake Rocks to Hokitika
- Day 7: Hokitika to Franz Josef Glacier
- Day 8: Franz Josef to Queenstown via Wanaka
- Day 9: Explore Queenstown
- Day 10: Queenstown to Te Anau, gateway to Fiordland
- Day 11: Day trip to Milford Sound fjord cruise
- Day 12: Te Anau to Aoraki/Mount Cook
- Day 13: Mount Cook to Christchurch via Lake Tekapo
- Day 14: Depart Christchurch
How to travel around New Zealand’s South Island
The easiest option that I recommend to all solo travellers visiting the South Island is Stray’s Takehe tour, a guided bus journey that starts and ends in Christchurch. For more flexibility, hiring a campervan from Christchurch is a great idea. You can travel at your own pace and stop wherever you want.
By bus tour
The route covers all the major South Island highlights, with accommodation organised at each stop so you only need to focus on choosing activities. If you’re on a budget, their Weka tour, which starts in Picton, is a great alternative. The bus drivers are fun and there will be plenty of of other solo travellers to meet.
Before the tour, we’ll visit Kaikoura for a unique opportunity to go whale watching near the coast. You can get to Kaikoura and back by train or bus from Christchurch – the Coastal Pacific train is a scenic option if it fits your dates.
About 70% of Stray travellers are solo, so you’ll be in good company. Get the best deal here.
By campervan
For complete freedom and flexibility, the best thing is to hire a campervan from Christchurch. This way, so you can explore this beautiful island at your own pace. Daily rates start at NZ$22-$34 for unlimited mileage/km depending on the season. I’ve included driving times and accommodation options in the itinerary below.
Check out the campervan deals from Christchurch, including cooking and sleeping gear, here.
Day 1: Christchurch
Start your journey in Christchurch, a city of resilience, creativity and hope. Known as the ‘Garden City’, Christchurch has risen from the tragedy of the 2011 earthquake with remarkable spirit.
Spend your first day getting oriented with the city. I recommend taking a day pass for the Christchurch hop-on hop-off tram, where heritage trams tour the city centre while the driver shares live commentary about the sights for an entertaining and informative ride. You’ll see the remains of the iconic 19th century cathedral that sadly suffered damage in the earthquake, and the innovative ‘Cardboard Cathedral’ built as a transitional replacement using recycled materials.
Other highlights include the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens, the buzzy Riverside Market for local food, and taking the gondola up Mount Cavendish for panoramic views over the city and Southern Alps.
Read more about my perfect one-day Christchurch itinerary in my dedicated post here.
Where to stay in Christchurch
In the city centre are you’ll find conveniently located hotels including Distinction Christchurch Hotel or Sudima Christchurch City.
Travellers on a budget can head to a hostel, such as Haka House Christchurch or the award-winning Jailhouse (this is where I stayed).
Explore the map below to find the latest hotel deals in Christchurch for your dates:
Day 2: Christchurch to Kaikoura
Head to Kaikoura today, around 2.5 hours’ drive along the scenic coastal route – or take the Coastal Pacific train for one of the most beautiful rail journeys in New Zealand.
This coastal town is known for its plentiful marine life. In the afternoon, go on a whale-watching boat trip – you get the chance to see whales breaching near your boat not far from the shore. I found it an an amazing experience, even if I was a bit seasick!
It’s best to book your whale-watching trip in advance to avoid disappointment – do it here.
Where to stay in Kaikoura
Kaikoura’s hostels include the Dolphin Lodge and Kaikoura Seaside Lodge. If you prefer a hotel, try the Kaikoura Boutique Hotel or the Te Mahuru Retreat – though these are a little further out of town.
Explore the map below to find the best accommodation deals for your dates in Kaikoura:
Day 3: Kaikoura to Christchurch
This morning, if you’re OK with an early start, head out for a swim with wild dolphins in their natural habitat. I did this with Dolphin Encounter Kaikoura, which has one of the highest success rates in the world for dolphin encounters.
After that, make your way back to Christchurch. This afternoon is a good opportunity to stock up on anything you need before your South Island tour begins tomorrow.
Read about this and more things to do in my dedicated Kaikoura guide here.
Day 4: Christchurch to Abel Tasman
Today you join the Stray Takahe tour – or depart in your campervan. We’ll travel north through Marlborough’s farmland and pine-forested hills to Marahau, a small village at the southern entrance to Abel Tasman National Park.
After dinner, it’s worth taking the short walk along the coastal path to the beach to catch the sunset.
Where to stay in Marahau
Accommodation is included and organised by Stray on this tour, otherwise check the map below for the latest deals and availability.
Day 5: Explore Abel Tasman National Park
Today is yours to explore. Why not hike into Abel Tasman National Park along the Coastal Track to Anchorage Bay – a stunning stretch of green bush, golden sand beaches and brilliant blue water. It’s around four hours each way, so set off early. Alternatively, you can take the water taxi back from Anchorage Bay to give yourself more time on the beach. If a full day’s hiking isn’t for you, the park is beautiful at a slower pace too. The coastline is dotted with secluded coves and the water is warm enough to swim in summer.
Day 6: Marahau to Hokitika
Today we head south along the wild West Coast, stopping at Punakaiki to see the famous Pancake Rocks (see below). There are also blowholes – layered limestone formations on the shoreline that shoot dramatic jets of water when the swell is up. You’ll arrive in Hokitika in the afternoon and find accommodation on the shore of the Tasman Sea.
Day 7: Hokitika to Franz Josef
Before leaving Hokitika, take some time to explore the town. Hokitika is famous for its greenstone – I remember going to a shop here selling lots of jewellery made from this jade stone.
The next highlight is Franz Josef, a small town resembling a ski resort. It’s famous for its glacier – one of only four in the world that’s located next to a rainforest.
The best activity here is a helicopter ride to the base of Franz Josef Glacier, where you’ll take a gentle hike in the area and a guide will help you explore its icy features. If that’s not your style, you might choose to set sail on a tranquil kayaking trip to see the native kiwi birds. Afterwards, lay back in one of the area’s hot pools to fully relax after your day of adventure.
My experience at Franz Josef
Luckily we had good weather, meaning the helicopters could fly us up to the glacier for our hike. With the sun shining, our enthusiastic guide used his pick to forge steps in the ice for us to climb. We filled our water bottles with the clear water trickling through the blue ice and explored the caves we found. Our icy expedition was followed by a complimentary dip in the local (very) hot spa pools.
Later I enjoyed a kayaking trip and visited the kiwi centre. Here, you can see these shy nocturnal birds up close. In the evening we danced the night away at a Valentine’s Day party. I certainly felt the love for this place.
You can book your 2.5‑hour glacier adventure with a helicopter ride and guided hike here.
Where to stay in Franz Josef
Accommodation is included and organised by Stray on this tour. If you’re travelling by campervan, the best accommodation in Franz Josef includes the fabulous Rainforest Retreat, which has everything from luxury tree huts to backpacker rooms. Alternatively, try Franz Josef Oasis which has clean and spacious rooms.
Explore the map below to find the latest accommodation deals in Franz Josef for your dates:
Day 8: Franz Josef to Queenstown
This morning, start with a walk around Lake Matheson. On still days the lake reflects mirror images of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman, making it one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand. Set off early for the best conditions before the wind picks up.
From there, we continue to Wanaka for lunch. It’s worth stopping to see the famous lone willow tree growing in the middle of Lake Wanaka. Then it’s on to Queenstown, arriving in the early evening.
If you’re travelling by campervan, I recommend staying longer in Wanaka. There are excellent wines at the Rippon winery on its shores, as well as the mind-boggling Puzzling World nearby and a gentle hike up Roy’s Peak for views over the area.
Where to stay in Queenstown
Queenstown is a backpacker favourite, so there are plenty of places to stay. Arguably the best is Adventure Queenstown Hostel. This fabulous place is highly rated, with great communal spaces and activities.
Explore the map below to find the latest accommodation deals for your dates in Queenstown:
Days 9: Explore Queenstown
Queenstown is possibly the most famous tourist town in New Zealand. Go bungee jumping, enjoy the popular jet boat ride or skydiving if you’re feeling adventurous (I wasn’t brave enough). Alternatively, take in the views from the Skyline Gondola or ride on the Queenstown Luge – this is a lot of fun.
The legendarily juicy, meaty Fergburger is a foodie highlight. There are also several good Queenstown bars to enjoy in the evenings.
If you’re travelling by campervan you may prefer to stay at your Queenstown accommodation and take day trips from here – outlined below.
Day 10: Queenstown to Fiordland National Park
Today we head to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. It’s a scenic two-hour drive through rolling hills and farmland, with the mountains of Fiordland appearing on the horizon as you approach.
Te Anau sits on the shores of New Zealand’s second largest lake and has a peaceful, unhurried feel after the buzz of Queenstown. It’s the perfect introduction to what you’ll see at Milford Sound tomorrow.
If you prefer to stay in Queenstown, you can book an organised day trip to Milford Sound.
Day 12: Day trip to Milford Sound
The journey to Milford Sound takes around two hours, passing extraordinary landscape. Here, you’ll take a boat cruise through Milford Sound, one of the world’s most dramatic fjords. You’ll see waterfalls cascading from towering cliffs and maybe even spot some wildlife.
For people staying in Queenstown, you can book an organised day trip to Milford Sound.
Day 12: Te Anau to Mount Cook
One of the most magnificent places in New Zealand’s South Island is Mount Cook. Otherwise known as Aoraki, it’s New Zealand’s highest peak and an alpine beauty.
You’ll arrive at Mount Cook village in the afternoon, overlooked by enormous snow-capped mountains. The three-hour Hooker Valley Track is one of the most impressive hikes on the South Island. Alternatively, you can take a helicopter tour over this scenic area.
Where to stay at Mount Cook
For budget accommodation, YHA Mount Cook is perfectly positioned with mountain views from the communal areas. For a special treat, The Hermitage Hotel delivers luxury accommodation with unparalleled mountain vistas, though it comes at a premium price.
Our hostel in Mount Cook village was overlooked by enormous snow-capped mountains. A very peaceful area, we took some hikes to explore the local scenery.
Check out the map below to find accommodation in Mount Cook village for your dates:
Day 13: Mount Cook to Christchurch
This morning we travel through Lord of the Rings landscapes to Lake Tekapo. Stop at the turquoise lake and the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd for photos – this vivid blue water is one of the most photographed scenes in New Zealand.
After lunch, we continue to Christchurch for your final night. If it’s your last evening with your Stray group, this is a good excuse for a group dinner to celebrate the trip.
Day 13-14: Return to Christchurch
If you have time before your flight, why not wander the city’s creative street art laneways or visit the Botanic Gardens and Hagley Park for a peaceful last morning.
From Christchurch you can fly to major destinations including Auckland, Sydney, Melbourne and Singapore, making it a convenient departure point for your next adventure.
Read all about what to do, where to stay and my experience in my Christchurch guide here.
The best time to visit New Zealand’s South Island
Summer in New Zealand runs from December to February, is best for hiking, road trips and warm weather activities. This is when you’ll have the longest days and most reliable weather for outdoor adventures like the Abel Tasman coastal walk or Franz Josef glacier hike. This is when I went and the weather was perfect.
Winter, from June to August, is ideal for skiing and snowboarding in Queenstown and Wanaka. The mountain towns transform into winter wonderlands, though some activities are weather dependent.
Spring and autumn are great for fewer crowds and stunning landscapes. In spring you’ll see blooming flowers and fresh green scenery, while autumn brings golden foliage and comfortable temperatures for hiking.
Frequently asked questions about the South Island
Is 2 weeks enough for New Zealand’s South Island?
Yes, two weeks is a good timeframe for New Zealand’s South Island. This allows you to see all the major highlights from Kaikoura’s marine wildlife to Franz Josef Glacier, Mount Cook’s stunning alpine scenery and Queenstown’s adventure activities, as outlined in this itinerary.
What is the best base for the South Island?
Christchurch works as the best overall base and starting point for exploring the South Island, as it has excellent international flight connections. This itinerary uses Christchurch as the start and end point, which is most practical for many international travellers.
Do I need a car in the South Island?
No, you can complete this itinerary by bus with tour companies like Stray – this is what I did as a solo traveller and I had a lot of fun. However, having a rental car or campervan gives you much more flexibility for spontaneous stops, scenic viewpoints and exploring at your own pace – especially useful for the West Coast and alpine regions.
Final thoughts on 2 weeks in New Zealand’s South Island
I did this visit to New Zealand’s South Island as a solo traveller and it’s one of the best trips I’ve ever done.
While I don’t normally do tours on my solo travels, the Stray trip made it so easy and so much fun – especially to reach the more remote parts of the island. By campervan you’ll have even more freedom to stay in stunning places likes Wanaka.
If you’re thinking about doing the South Island solo, don’t wait as long as I did – it really is that beautiful.
