6-day New Zealand South Island Itinerary

Pressed for time on the road? These nearby regional gems make for the ideal short campervan getaway.

Day 1: Queenstown to Te Anau

Drive: Around 3 hours (campervan pace).
Activities: Kick off your Fiordland trip with a visit to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, or watch Ata Whenua, (Fiordland on Film) for a spectacular introduction to the region.
Stay: Te Anau Top 10 Holiday Park (enjoy powered sites and hot showers).

Day 2: Te Anau to Milford Sound

Drive: About 3 hours with scenic pull-over spots.
Activities: Cruise Milford Sound to marvel at dramatic fjords, cliffs, and waterfalls. Stop at The Chasm and alpine trails like Lake Marian.
Optional Activity add-ons:
- Kayak Milford Sound – paddle beneath towering cliffs and waterfalls.
- Milford Sound Cruise – beautiful sightseeing from the water.
Stay: Milford Sound Lodge (pre-book early) or Cascade Creek DOC campsite.

Day 3: Milford Sound to Wānaka (a long day on the road)

Drive: approx. 5–6 hours, but full of stunning scenery.
Activities: Arrive in Wānaka, stretch your legs with a lakefront walk, or enjoy dinner by the water.
Stay: Glendhu Bay Holiday Park (lakefront campervan sites).

Day 4: Explore Wānaka

Drive: Minimal, unless you detour to the Blue Pools (1 hour).
Activities: Spend the day discovering Wānaka’s beauty, enjoy lakeside walks, short hikes, or kayaking.
Optional paid add-ons:
- Fishing Lake Hawea – the ultimate fishing adventure with alpine views.
- Wanaka Wine Tour – discover Central Otago’s boutique wineries and world-famous pinot noir.
Stay: Glendhu Bay for a second night, or LandEscape with unique motorhome sites and private hot tubs.

Day 5: Wānaka to Aoraki Mount Cook

Drive: Around 3–4 hours.
Activities: Arrive at Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Walk the Hooker Valley Track.
Stay: Glentanner Park (powered sites) or freedom camp at Lake Pukaki.

Day 6: Mount Cook to Queenstown

Drive: About 4 to 5 hours back to return your campervan to Queenstown Campervans.
Activities: If time allows, add a final adrenaline hit with the Shotover Jet or enjoy a return cruise and dinner on the TSS Earnslaw and BBQ.
Ready to hit the road? Book your campervan
here.