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New Zealand South Island: the Classic Loop
Routes › Australia & Oceania › New Zealand
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New Zealand South Island: the Classic Loop

schedule13 daysplan for pin_drop10stops directions_car~1 550 kmon the road flight_landChristchurch (CHC)fly into

This trip around New Zealand's South Island is perfect for anyone who loves nature and adventure. Starting in Christchurch, you’ll drive through stunning landscapes, stopping at Lake Tekapo for its turquoise waters and Mount Cook for some hiking. Each stop offers a chance to stretch your legs and take in the scenery, with Wanaka and Queenstown providing plenty of outdoor activities.

The rhythm of the trip feels balanced, with a mix of travel and relaxation. You’ll spend two nights in Queenstown, giving you time to explore and unwind. From the glaciers at Franz Josef to the rugged coastline at Punakaiki, each day brings a new experience. This route is ideal for those who want to see a lot while still enjoying the journey.

Christchurch
Day 1–2

Christchurch

1 night · Travel guide
Arrive in Christchurch, explore the Botanic Gardens and the Cathedral.
Things to do
Nearby: Botanic Gardens · Cardboard Cathedral
Day 2–3

Lake Tekapo

1 night · Travel guide
Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, enjoy stargazing at Mount John.
Nearby: Church of the Good Shepherd · Mount John Observatory
Mount Cook
Day 3–4

Mount Cook

1 night · Travel guide
Hike the Hooker Valley Track, enjoy the views of Mount Cook.
Things to do
Nearby: Hooker Valley Track · Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Wanaka
Day 4–5

Wanaka

1 night · Travel guide
Enjoy the lake, hike Roys Peak for breathtaking views.
Things to do
Nearby: Lake Wanaka · Roys Peak Track
Queenstown
Day 5–7

Queenstown

2 nights · Travel guide
Explore Glenorchy, enjoy views from Skyline Queenstown.
Experience jet boating on the Shotover River.
Things to do
Nearby: Glenorchy · Skyline Queenstown · Shotover River
Day 7–8

Te Anau

1 night · Travel guide
Cruise Milford Sound, visit the Glowworm Caves.
Things to do
Nearby: Milford Sound · Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Franz Josef
Day 8–10

Franz Josef

2 nights · Travel guide
Hike to Franz Josef Glacier, explore the rainforest.
Take a scenic flight over the glacier.
Things to do
Nearby: Franz Josef Glacier · West Coast Rainforest
Punakaiki
Day 10–11

Punakaiki

1 night · Travel guide
Visit the Pancake Rocks, hike in Paparoa National Park.
Things to do
Nearby: Pancake Rocks · Paparoa National Park
Day 11–12

Kaikōura

1 night · Travel guide
Go whale watching, hike the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway.
Things to do
Nearby: Whale Watching · Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway
Christchurch
Day 12–13

Christchurch

1 night · Travel guide
Visit Quake City, enjoy a punt ride on the Avon River.
Things to do
Nearby: Quake City · Avon River
Make this trip yours →

from ~$2,292 p.p. · a rough estimate for flights and stays; you pick the real ones

The Kiomigo promise

Make this your route

edit_roadYou are in charge

Change any stop, any stay, any day. Even mid-trip. Only your flights are fixed.

speedTravel at your pace

No group bus. No fixed program. Stay longer where it is good, skip what is not.

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Tick off what you dream of, not what the world expects.

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We travel with you and make memories together.

13 days · 10 stops from ~$2,292 p.p. Make it yours →