RV Rental South Island
Where can you see fjords, snow-capped mountains, beaches, glaciers, lakes, beaches and forests all in the same day?
The South Island of New Zealand packs in all of these in easy driving distance. Combine that with whale watching, swimming with dolphins and hot pools, you are guaranteed an adventure of a lifetime.
How long does it take to tour the South Island of New Zealand in a campervan?
We recommend 4 to 6 weeks. However, you can do a swift tour in about 3 weeks. If you have limited time choose an area to explore fully.
In the north of the South Island there is the Abel Tasman National Park where you can hike, swim, kayak, visit Te Waikoropupu Springs and explore the unspoilt beaches and unspoilt wilderness. Close by is Nelson the place for arts and crafts. The north of the South Island is home to world class vineyards producing famous Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir around the Blenheim region.
If that is not enough to whet your appetite then add in a trip to Kaikoura and whale watch. Or white water rafting in Murchison. If you have arrived from the North Island into Picton you will have already experienced the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds. If not, take a boat trip to explore the Sounds and try some fishing and sample green lipped mussels. Try to spot the rare Hector’s Dolphin, the smallest of dolphins. These are often seen from the ferry.
On your way south choose between travelling down the east coast to Christchurch via the coast or down the west coast.
This is a 10 day itinerary for the top end of the South Island:
Here is a suggested 10-day campervan itinerary for exploring the magnificent north of New Zealand's South Island. This route creates a scenic loop, is packed with unique experiences, and includes a mix of top-tier campsites and freedom camping options for certified self-contained (CSC) vehicles.
New Zealand Seasons
New Zealand's peak season is summer (December - February), which offers long, warm days perfect for beaches and hiking. The shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) are also excellent. Winter (June - August) can be beautiful and crisp, but days are shorter, it can be cold (with snow on the mountains), and some water-based activities may be limited. This itinerary is written assuming a trip during the warmer months but is achievable in winter with careful planning.
Department of Conservation Campsite Pass:
This gives you a year’s access to bookable and non-bookable campsites run by the Dept of Conservation. It doesn’t guarantee you a site. Book ahead to be confident of getting your pitch.
The 10-Day Northern Loop Itinerary
This route starts in Picton, the arrival port for the Interislander and Bluebridge ferries from the North Island.
Day 1: Picton & the Marlborough Sounds
Day 2: Blenheim's Wine Country
Day 3: The Coastal Drive to Kaikōura
Day 4: Marine Encounters in Kaikōura
Day 5: To the Alpine Spa Village of Hanmer Springs
Day 6: Across Lewis Pass to Nelson
Day 7: Nelson City & Gateway to Abel Tasman
Day 8: Exploring Abel Tasman National Park
Day 9: Golden Bay & The Wild West Coast
Day 10: Return via Pelorus Bridge
Detailed Daily Breakdown
Day 1: Arrival in Picton & Queen Charlotte Sound
Welcome to the South Island! Picton is a charming harbour town and your entry point to the stunning river valleys of the Marlborough Sounds.
What to See & Do:
Walk Picton waterfront and marina.
Hike a section of the Queen Charlotte Track. A short walk to the lookout from the town centre provides a great view.
Visit the Edwin Fox Ship and Visitor Centre, a relic of a 19th-century vessel.
Inaccessible/Guided Trip Highlight:
The Mail Boat Cruise: This is a truly unique Kiwi experience. Join the actual boat that delivers mail, groceries, and supplies to the remote homesteads scattered throughout the bays of Queen Charlotte Sound. You'll see incredible scenery and get a glimpse into the lives of those who live in this isolated paradise.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Whatamango Bay Campsite (DOC). A short drive from Picton, this Department of Conservation (DOC) site is nestled in a stunning, sheltered bay. It’s basic but the location is world-class. Waking up to the sound of bellbirds.
Freedom Camping (CSC): Check the CamperMate or Rankers Camping NZ apps for the latest designated freedom camping spots around Picton. Areas like the Collins Memorial Reserve are sometimes available. Rules change, so always check local council signs.
Day 2: Blenheim - World-Famous Wine
A short drive takes you into the heart of New Zealand's largest wine-producing region, famous for its crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
What to See & Do:
Wine Tasting: The main event! Hire a bike and cycle between the cellar doors for a relaxed day. Alternatively, book a guided wine tour to avoid any driving concerns. Key wineries include Cloudy Bay, Brancott Estate (for the views), and the Moa Brewery.
Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre: A world-class museum featuring Sir Peter Jackson's collection of rare WWI and WWII aircraft, brought to life with dramatic sets created by Wētā Workshop.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Rarangi Campsite (DOC). Located right on the coast at Cloudy Bay, this is a fantastic spot. You can walk along the pebble beach and are just a short drive from the main wineries. A much more scenic option than staying in town.
Freedom Camping (CSC): The Wairau River Diversion is a well-known, large freedom camping area. It's a simple, gravelled area but it's free, popular with other campervanners, and offers beautiful riverbed and mountain views.
Day 3: The Drive to Kaikōura
The drive along State Highway 1 to Kaikōura is an activity in itself, with the road squeezed between the towering Kaikōura Ranges and the Pacific Ocean.
What to See & Do:
Ohau Point Seal Colony: Stop at the purpose-built lookouts to see hundreds of New Zealand fur seals lounging on the rocks below.
Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway: This is a must-do. The full 3-hour loop walk takes you past seal colonies, limestone formations, and seabird nesting sites. The views are breathtaking.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Kaikōura Peketa Beach Holiday Park. This campsite’s unique appeal is its absolute beachfront location south of the town. You can park your van with an uninterrupted view of the Pacific Ocean.
Freedom Camping (CSC): There are several designated freedom camping areas just north and south of the Kaikōura township. These are clearly signposted. The area near Gooch's Beach is one such spot. Check the Kaikōura District Council website for a map before you go.
Day 4: Kaikōura's Marine Giants
Kaikōura is where the mountains meet the sea, and a deep underwater canyon close to shore creates a rich feeding ground for marine life.
What to See & Do:
Relax and enjoy the town, maybe try some local crayfish (Kaikōura means 'to eat crayfish' in Māori).
Inaccessible/Guided Trip Highlight:
Whale Watching: This is the big ticket. Book a trip with Whale Watch Kaikōura (by boat) or get a different perspective with Wings Over Whales (by plane). Seeing Giant Sperm Whales, Humpback and Southern right whales and orcas. You may also see Blue whales, Sie and Minke whales. It is an unforgettable experience.
Dolphin Encounter: Swim with or watch the incredibly acrobatic Dusky Dolphins in their natural habitat.
Albatross Encounter: Take a boat tour to see albatross and other pelagic birds up close.
Day 5: Hanmer Springs Alpine Retreat
Drive inland through farmland and hill country to the alpine village of Hanmer Springs, famous for its geothermal hot pools.
What to See & Do:
Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa: The perfect way to relax after a few days of adventure. Soak in a range of mineral, sulphur, and rock pools with temperatures from 33∘C to 42∘C.
Hanmer Forest Park: Enjoy short walks or hire a mountain bike to explore the beautiful exotic and native forests surrounding the village.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Hanmer Springs Forest Camp (DOC). Located a short walk from the pools in the heart of the forest, this campsite offers a peaceful alternative to the main holiday parks.
Freedom Camping (CSC): Freedom camping is restricted in the town itself, but there are spots available a short drive away. A popular one is the Waiau Ferry Bridge picnic area.
Day 6: Lewis Pass to Nelson
This is a major driving day across the stunning, rugged Lewis Pass. The scenery changes from alpine tussock lands to the dense beech forests of the West Coast.
What to See & Do:
Lewis Pass Scenery: There are numerous lookouts and short walks along the way. A great stop is the Marble Hill a-frame shelter for a classic alpine photo.
Murchison: Stop in the 'whitewater capital' of New Zealand. If you're adventurous, you can go rafting or jet boating on the Buller River.
Nelson Lakes National Park: A worthwhile detour. Visit the small village of St Arnaud and walk out onto the famous jetty on Lake Rotoiti for views of the St. Arnaud Range mountains.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Tahuna Beach Holiday Park (Nelson). One of NZ's most popular campsites for a reason. Its unique feature is its location right on the vast, golden sands of Tāhunanui Beach, yet it's only a short drive to the city centre.
Freedom Camping (CSC): Nelson City Council has specific sites. The car park at the New Zealand Cricket Museum in Richmond (just south of Nelson) is often a designated spot.
Day 7: Artsy Nelson & Abel Tasman Gateway
Explore New Zealand's sunniest city before heading towards the golden bays of Abel Tasman National Park.
What to See & Do:
Nelson City: Explore the arts and crafts scene. If it's a Saturday, the Nelson Market is one of the best in the country.
Mapua Wharf: A beautifully restored wharf area with galleries, cafes, a brewery, and restaurants. A great place for lunch.
Drive to either Mārahau or Kaiteriteri, the two main gateways to Abel Tasman.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Mārahau Beach Camp. Its uniqueness lies in its position as the "Abel Tasman Village". It's located right at the start of the Abel Tasman Coast Track, with water taxis and kayak rentals departing from here.
Freedom Camping (CSC): Very restricted near the park. A good option is the Riwaka Rugby Club which sometimes offers low-cost camping, or head back towards Motueka to find designated council spots.
Day 8: Kayak & Hike Abel Tasman
Experience the park's turquoise waters, golden sand beaches, and lush coastal forest. You can't drive into the park, so you must explore by foot, kayak, or boat.
What to See & Do:
Hike the first section of the Abel Tasman Coast Track from Mārahau to Anchorage Bay (approx 4 hours).
Inaccessible/Guided Trip Highlight:
Kayak & Walk Combo: This is the ultimate Abel Tasman experience. Companies like Abel Tasman Kayaks or Wilsons Abel Tasman offer fantastic trips. A typical day involves kayaking from Mārahau to a secluded bay (like Observation Beach), enjoying lunch, and then getting picked up by a water taxi. Alternatively, get a water taxi drop-off deep in the park at a bay like Awaroa or Tōtaranui and walk a section of the track back to a pickup point. This allows you to see the most remote and beautiful parts of the park in a single day.
Day 9: Golden Bay & Farewell Spit
Drive over the Takaka Hill into the magical, slightly alternative region of Golden Bay.
What to See & Do:
Te Waikoropupū Springs ("Pupu Springs"): See some of the clearest water ever measured in the world. The short loop walk is beautiful.
Wharariki Beach: A spectacular, wild beach famous for the Archway Islands, massive sand dunes, and resident seals. The 20-minute walk from the car park over farmland is part of the adventure. It's best visited at low tide.
Inaccessible/Guided Trip Highlight:
Farewell Spit Eco Tour: The spit is a 35km-long sandspit and a protected bird sanctuary. The only way to explore it is with a licensed guide. Farewell Spit Tours run a fantastic trip in a special 4WD bus, taking you to the historic lighthouse and allowing for incredible birdwatching and scenery.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Wharariki Beach Holiday Park. A remote and friendly campsite, perfectly located for exploring the beach at sunrise or sunset.
DOC Campsite: For the truly adventurous, the drive to Tōtaranui Campground inside the northern end of Abel Tasman park is epic. The road is unsealed and winding, but the campsite is one of NZ's finest, situated on a huge golden beach.
Day 10: Return to Picton
A final scenic drive back towards Picton for your departure.
What to See & Do:
Pelorus Bridge Scenic Reserve: Stop here for a beautiful short walk through the native forest to the Pelorus River. The rocky gorge was used as a filming location in The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (the barrel scene). It's a perfect final stop.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Pelorus Bridge Campground (DOC). If you have a final night, this is a unique place to spend it, right by the river in the forest.
Middle and south of the South Island Itineraries:
Here are two separate 10-day itineraries for the middle and southern parts of the island.
Itinerary 1: The Alpine Heart (Middle South Island)
This route focuses on the spectacular spine of the Southern Alps, taking you from the wild West Coast glaciers over to the turquoise lakes and towering peaks of Mackenzie Country. The scenery on this trip is monumental.
Route Overview: Christchurch → Arthur's Pass → Hokitika → Franz Josef Glacier → Wānaka → Aoraki/Mount Cook → Lake Tekapo → Christchurch.
Detailed Daily Breakdown
Day 1: Christchurch to Arthur's Pass
Pick up your campervan in Christchurch and head west into the mountains. The drive itself is the main attraction, transitioning from the flat Canterbury Plains to the dramatic mountain pass.
What to See & Do:
Kura Tāwhiti / Castle Hill: Wander through an incredible landscape of giant limestone boulders. A sacred place for Māori and a paradise for photographers and climbers.
Devil's Punchbowl Falls: A stunning 131m waterfall accessible via a short (1-hour return) but steep walk through native forest near Arthur's Pass village.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Jackson's Retreat Alpine Holiday Park. A fantastic campsite located just east of Arthur's Pass. It's set in a beautiful rainforest environment and has excellent facilities, including private bush-surrounded spa pools you can book.
DOC Campsite: Klondyke Corner. A basic but scenically spectacular DOC camp surrounded by mountains and a wide riverbed. A great spot to see the mischievous Kea (alpine parrot), but be sure to close your windows!
Day 2: Arthur's Pass to Hokitika
Descend from the alps to the wild West Coast. Hokitika is a quirky town famous for pounamu (greenstone), sunsets, and a rugged coastline.
What to See & Do:
Hokitika Gorge: A must-see. A short walk leads to a swing bridge over a granite gorge filled with impossibly blue-glacial water.
Hokitika Beach: Famous for its driftwood sculptures and stunning sunsets.
Glow Worm Dell: A free-to-visit, magical dell right on the edge of town that comes alive with thousands of glow worms after dark.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Ross Beach Top 10 Holiday Park. A truly unique spot just south of Hokitika. You can camp right by the ocean, and they have quirky, converted shipping container pods. It's a great base for exploring the historic goldfields.
Freedom Camping (CSC): Check the Westland District Council rules, but there are often designated spots along the Hokitika beachfront.
Day 3 & 4: Glacier Country (Franz Josef & Fox)
Drive south to the Westland Tai Poutini National Park, home to the famous Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers—unique relics of the last ice age that descend into temperate rainforest.
What to See & Do:
Glacier Valley Walks: Walk the trails towards the terminal faces of both Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers to get a sense of their scale.
Lake Matheson: Near Fox Glacier, this is the famous "mirror lake". On a calm morning, it perfectly reflects Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. The walk around the lake is beautiful. Arrive very early in the morning.
Inaccessible/Guided Trip Highlight:
Heli-Hike: This is the absolute best way to experience the glaciers. A helicopter flies you onto the ice, where you are led by a guide on a 2-3 hour hike through spectacular blue ice caves, crevasses, and pinnacles. An unforgettable, bucket-list experience.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Gillespies Beach Campsite (DOC). A stunningly remote DOC camp north of Fox Glacier, right on a wild beach with an old gold mining tunnel and a seal colony nearby. It's a 20-minute drive on a gravel road, but worth it for the sense of isolation and beauty.
Freedom Camping (CSC): Lake Paringa Campsite (DOC), south of Fox Glacier, offers lakeside freedom camping spots.
Day 5 & 6: Over Haast Pass to Wānaka
The drive over Haast Pass is one of the world's great road trips, with countless waterfalls and "blue pools" to stop at. You'll then arrive in Wānaka, Queenstown's more relaxed and arguably more beautiful sibling.
What to See & Do:
Blue Pools Walk: An easy walk to a swing bridge over the Makarora River, with crystal-clear water so blue it looks unreal.
That Wanaka Tree: See the famous willow tree growing in the lake.
Hike Mount Iron: A fantastic 1.5-hour loop walk that gives you 360-degree views of Wānaka, the lake, and the surrounding peaks.
Inaccessible/Guided Trip Highlight:
Mou Waho Island Tour: Take a boat cruise to Mou Waho Island, a predator-free nature reserve in the middle of Lake Wānaka. Here you can see the rare Buff Weka and take a short walk up to a viewpoint to see the island's own lake (Arethusa Pool)—an island, on a lake, on an island!
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Glendhu Bay Motor Camp. This campsite has one of the most beautiful locations in New Zealand, stretched along the shores of Glendhu Bay with front-row views of the lake and mountains.
Freedom Camping (CSC): Albert Town, just outside Wānaka, has a designated freedom camping area by the Clutha River.
Day 7 & 8: Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
Drive through the stunning Lindis Pass and along the bright turquoise waters of Lake Pūkaki to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, home to NZ's highest peak.
What to See & Do:
Hooker Valley Track: One of the best day walks in New Zealand. This mostly flat 3-hour return track crosses three swing bridges and ends at a glacial lake with icebergs floating in front of Aoraki/Mount Cook.
Tasman Glacier Viewpoint: A short uphill walk gives you incredible views over the terminal lake of the mighty Tasman Glacier.
Inaccessible/Guided Trip Highlight:
Glacier Explorers: Take a boat trip on the Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake. You'll cruise amongst huge icebergs that have calved off the glacier, getting a unique perspective on the ice.
Scenic Flight: A scenic flight by ski-plane or helicopter, with a snow landing on the glacier itself, is the ultimate alpine experience.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: White Horse Hill Campground (DOC). This is THE place to stay. It's located at the start of the Hooker Valley Track and surrounded by towering peaks. Book this one far in advance in peak season as it's incredibly popular. There is no freedom camping inside the national park.
Day 9: Lake Tekapo & The Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve
A short drive to Lake Tekapo, another turquoise gem famous for its iconic church and world-renowned stargazing.
What to See & Do:
Church of the Good Shepherd: Visit the famous stone church on the shores of the lake.
Stargazing: You are in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. On a clear night, the view of the Milky Way is simply mind-blowing.
Inaccessible/Guided Trip Highlight:
Dark Sky Project: Take a guided tour at the Mount John Observatory. Knowledgeable guides use powerful telescopes to show you planets, star clusters, and distant galaxies. It's a truly humbling and awe-inspiring experience.
Overnight Stays:
Freedom Camping (CSC): There are several designated freedom camping spots along the southern shore of Lake Pūkaki. Waking up here and opening your van doors to a direct view of Aoraki/Mount Cook reflected in the lake is an unbeatable experience.
Campsite: Lake Tekapo Motutere Estate. A modern holiday park with excellent facilities and stunning lakeside views.
Day 10: Return to Christchurch
Enjoy a relaxed morning before the 3-hour drive back to Christchurch, perhaps stopping in Geraldine or Fairlie for a coffee and a famous pie.
Itinerary 2: The Deep South & Fjords
This itinerary covers the adventure capital of Queenstown, Fiordland National Park, the coastline of the Catlins, and the historic city of Dunedin.
Route Overview: Queenstown → Te Anau → Milford Sound → The Catlins → Dunedin → Queenstown.
Detailed Daily Breakdown
Day 1 & 2: Queenstown - Adventure & Scenery
Arrive in the adventure capital of the world. Spend two days soaking up the stunning scenery and choosing from a vast menu of high-octane or more relaxed activities.
What to See & Do:
Skyline Gondola: Ride the gondola for the iconic panoramic view of Queenstown, The Remarkables, and Lake Wakatipu.
Queenstown Gardens: Take a beautiful walk or play frisbee golf in these lovely lakeside gardens.
Arrowtown: An historic gold rush town just a 20-minute drive away.
Inaccessible/Guided Trip Highlight:
Shotover Jet: The world-famous jet boat ride that blasts through the narrow, dramatic canyons of the Shotover River.
Lord of the Rings Tour: Go on a 4WD tour with companies like Nomad Safaris to explore backcountry filming locations that are inaccessible to a campervan.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Moke Lake Campsite (DOC). Just 20 minutes from Queenstown but feels a world away. A spectacular campground set in a mountain-ringed valley beside a beautiful lake. Amazing for stargazing.
Freedom Camping (CSC): The Kawarau Bridge car park (home of the original bungy jump) is a well-known freedom camping spot with great views.
Day 3: Queenstown to Te Anau
Take the beautiful drive along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau, the tranquil lakeside town that serves as the base for exploring Fiordland National Park.
What to See & Do:
Te Anau Bird Sanctuary: A great place to see the rare, flightless Takahe.
Ata Whenua - Shadowland Film: Watch this 30-minute film at the local cinema. It shows breathtaking aerial footage of Fiordland and is the perfect introduction to the region.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Te Anau Top 10 Holiday Park. Excellent facilities and a convenient base for organizing your Fiordland excursions.
Freedom Camping (CSC): Te Anau has several designated freedom camping car parks. The "Purple Church" (Fiordland Community Event Centre) is one of the main ones.
Day 4: Milford Sound
Today is a huge day. The drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound is one of the most beautiful in the world. Start early and allow at least 4 hours each way with stops. Try to get ahead of the tour buses and leave early.
What to See & Do:
The Milford Road: Stop at the Mirror Lakes, The Chasm, and pop out of the Homer Tunnel into a sheer-walled glacial valley.
Milford Sound Cruise: The absolute must-do. Take a 2-hour cruise on the fiord out to the Tasman Sea. You'll sail beneath the towering Mitre Peak and get showered by waterfalls. Overnight cruises available.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Cascade Creek Campsite (DOC). An iconic and very popular DOC camp on the Milford Road itself. It’s set in a beautiful valley, allowing you to break up the long drive. Book well in advance.
Premium Campsite: Milford Sound Lodge Rainforest Campervan Park. The only place to stay in Milford Sound itself. Staying here is a unique experience, allowing you to enjoy the serenity of the fiord after all the tour buses have left for the day.
Day 5: Doubtful Sound - The Sound of Silence
While most people visit Milford, the larger, more remote Doubtful Sound offers a deeper wilderness experience.
Inaccessible/Guided Trip Highlight:
Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise: This is a truly special trip. It involves a boat across Lake Manapouri, a bus over the Wilmot Pass, and then an overnight cruise on the vast fiord. You can kayak, see wildlife, and experience the profound silence of Fiordland. It's a significant investment but a memory for life.
What to See & Do:
If not doing the overnight trip, explore more around Te Anau, hike a section of the Kepler Track, or visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves.
Day 6 & 7: The Rugged Catlins Coast
Drive south to the wild, sparsely populated Catlins region, known for its rugged coastline, native forest, waterfalls, and unique wildlife.
What to See & Do:
Nugget Point Lighthouse: A stunning lighthouse perched on a rocky headland, surrounded by fur seals. A must-see at sunrise.
Purakaunui Falls: A beautiful, cascading three-tiered waterfall that's a classic New Zealand photograph.
Cathedral Caves: At low tide, you can walk through these enormous sea caves. Check tide times before you go.
Curio Bay: See a 180-million-year-old fossilised forest in the rock shelf at low tide, and watch for rare Yellow-Eyed Penguins (Hoiho) coming ashore at dusk.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Curio Bay Camping Ground. A fantastic spot with a unique draw: you can often see Hector's dolphins playing in the surf and penguins waddling ashore right from the campsite.
DOC Campsite: Papatowai Campsite. A lovely, sheltered DOC site set amongst the forest, centrally located for exploring the region.
Day 8 & 9: Dunedin & The Otago Peninsula
Head north to Dunedin, a city with strong Scottish heritage, famous for its grand Victorian architecture and incredible wildlife.
What to See & Do:
Dunedin City: Explore the Octagon, the historic Railway Station, and walk up Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world.
Otago Peninsula: Drive the scenic high road out to the peninsula. Visit Larnach Castle, New Zealand's only castle.
Inaccessible/Guided Trip Highlight:
Elm Wildlife Tours: The best way to see the peninsula's wildlife responsibly. This tour takes you via private back roads to view Yellow-Eyed Penguins, fur seals, and the Northern Royal Albatross colony with expert guides.
Overnight Stays:
Campsite: Portobello Village Tourist Park. A great campsite located right on the Otago Peninsula, making it a perfect base for wildlife viewing.
Freedom Camping (CSC): Warrington Domain. A beautiful beachside reserve just north of Dunedin. A fantastic and popular freedom camping spot.
Day 10: Central Otago to Queenstown
Complete your loop with a drive through the starkly beautiful landscapes of Central Otago, known for its arid hills, wineries (especially Pinot Noir), and charming gold rush towns. Stop in Clyde or Cromwell for lunch before finishing back in Queenstown.
