This 7-day journey from our Christchurch depot to the wild Otago coastline of Dunedin combines stunning natural wonders, wildlife encounters, and Kiwi experiences – all from your trusty Escape Rentals campervan.
See our South Island campervan road trip itineraries for:
- Christchurch → Queenstown
- Christchurch → Nelson
- Christchurch → Picton
- Christchurch → Franz Josef
Get a campervan hire quote for your dates or keep reading to get inspired by an epic South Island road trip.
Day 1: Christchurch to Akaroa (Banks Peninsula) – 84 km, ~1.5 hours
Morning: After collecting your campervan at the Escape Rentals depot, head down the road to Pak’nSave Moorhouse to buy groceries, toiletries, and supplies.
⛽Pro tip: keep your receipt for fuel discounts at their associated petrol stations!
Midday Highlight – Little River & Hilltop Lookout: Stop at the charming Little River community for coffee and a quick stretch at the Little River Gallery and Store. As you continue along the winding SH75, don’t miss the hilltop lookout where you’ll get your first breathtaking panorama of Akaroa Harbour stretching out below you – the perfect introduction to this magical region.
Afternoon – Explore Akaroa: Arrive in Akaroa, a charming harbourside settlement with distinct French influences (look for the French street names and tricolour flags!).
This delightful village is your gateway to some incredible wildlife experiences:
- Harbour Wildlife Cruise: Join a local operator to spot the rare Hector’s dolphins (the world’s smallest dolphin🐬) playing in the harbour.
- Ōnawe Peninsula Track: For those keen to stretch their legs, this 1-hour return walk takes you to a historic Māori pā (fortified settlement) site with beautiful harbour views. This is a tapu (sacred) site, so please do not eat on the peninsula out of respect.
Where to Stay: Camp overnight at either Akaroa Holiday Park (close to town amenities with powered sites) or Okains Bay Camping Ground.
Local Tip: If you’re at Okains Bay, check if the Okains Bay Museum is open (operating hours vary seasonally).
Day 2: Akaroa to Peel Forest (Inland Canterbury) – 200 km, ~3 hours
Morning: You’re heading to Peel Forest today. You have two route options:
- A direct route via State Highway 1.
- The more scenic Inland Scenic Route 72 through Canterbury’s agricultural heartland.
Midday – Canterbury Plains: As you cross the wide open Canterbury Plains, keep an eye out for the impressive Rakaia River – one of NZ’s widest braided rivers.
Stop in at the country town of Geraldine for lunch – the Barker’s Foodstore & Eatery is a local institution, famous for its jams and preserves.
Afternoon – Peel Forest Park Scenic Reserve, a peaceful remnant of ancient podocarp forest at the foot of the Southern Alps. Choose one of the beautiful walks to suit your energy levels.
- Quick: Big Tree Walk (15 minutes) to see a 1000-year-old tōtara tree.
- Medium: Acland Falls Track (30 min return) through lush bush to a pretty waterfall.
- Challenge: Little Mount Peel (Huatekerekere) Track (4-7 hour return) offers sweeping views of the Canterbury Plains from its 1311m summit – a 700m climb that’s worth the effort on a clear day.
Where to Stay – Peel Forest DOC Campground: This Department of Conservation campsite offers basic facilities in a tranquil forest setting. Listen out for night-time kiwi calls if you’re lucky!
Local Tip: Keep your food sealed in containers – New Zealand has curious possums that might pay a nocturnal visit to your campsite!
Day 3: Peel Forest to Lake Tekapō – 140 km, ~2 hours
Morning – drive inland towards Mackenzie Country. Enjoy the iconic golden tussock grasslands and stunning turquoise lakes. Stop in Fairlie for one of the famous Fairlie Bakehouse meat pies – a proper Kiwi road trip tradition!
Midday – Arrive at Lake Tekapō. This alpine lake is renowned for its surreal blue water, which comes from fine rock particles (glacial flour) suspended in the water. The iconic Church of the Good Shepherd on the lakeshore makes for a perfect photo opportunity.
Afternoon – Enjoy a range of activities around Tekapō including:
- Mt John Observatory Track: Take a hike (or drive) up to Mt John Observatory above Lake Tekapō. The Summit Circuit Track is a moderate 1.5-hour loop with 360° views of the lake and mountains. At the top, you’ll find an observatory and Astro Café – the perfect spot to refuel.
- Tekapō Springs: If you’re feeling a bit stiff from driving, head to Tekapō Springs hot pools where you can soak in a hot pool with lake and alpine views.
- Lake Swim: For the brave, take a refreshing dip in the glacial-fed lake (be prepared – it’s chilly year-round, but invigorating in summer!)
Where to Stay: If self-contained, there are freedom camping options at the south end of Lake Pukaki. Remember that freedom camping is only for certified self-contained campervans – rangers do check, and fines are $200 for non-compliance.
Otherwise, stay at Lake’s Edge Holiday Park which offers powered sites within walking distance to the town centre.
🔭✨Local Tip: The Mackenzie Basin is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve – one of the best places in the world for stargazing.
Day 4: Lake Tekapō to Oamaru (via Aoraki/Mt Cook option) – 250–300 km, 3–4.5 hours
Optional Morning Detour – Aoraki/Mt Cook: If you’re keen for alpine adventure, make an early start for Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park. The highlight here is the famous Hooker Valley Track – an easy 10 km (3 hour) return trail that’s one of New Zealand’s most iconic day hikes.
Afternoon – Journey Through the Waitaki Valley: Whether you took the Mt Cook detour or not, you’ll traverse the stunning Waitaki Valley toward the east coast. Make time for these unique stops:
- Clay Cliffs of Omarama: These otherworldly pinnacles (small entry fee via honesty box) make for a 20-minute exploration.
- Elephant Rocks: 5 km off the highway near Duntroon, these massive smooth boulders scattered in a field are famous as a film location for “The Chronicles of Narnia.”
Evening – Arrive in Ōamaru: A historic town known for its well-preserved Victorian precinct, penguin colonies, and steampunk museum.
For a truly special wildlife experience:
- Blue Penguin Colony: Join an evening viewing to watch the world’s smallest penguins return ashore after sunset (paid attraction).
- Free Option: Drive to Bushy Beach just before dusk – there’s a hide above the beach where, if patient and quiet, you might spot a rare yellow-eyed penguin (hoiho) coming ashore. Remember to maintain silence, no flash photography, and give the birds space to land.
Where to Stay: For campsites, the Oamaru Top 10 Holiday Park or Waitaki Waters DOC campground. Self-contained campervans can stay at designated spots eg. the parking area at Oamaru Harbour – just double-check the signage.
🧀Local Tip: Try Whitestone Cheese’s factory store for award-winning cheeses.
Day 5: Oamaru to Dunedin (via Moeraki) – 120 km, ~1.75 hours
Morning – Moeraki Boulders: About 30 minutes south of Oamaru, you’ll reach Koekohe Beach, famous for the Moeraki Boulders.
These massive spherical boulders scattered along the beach have a fascinating origin story.
Afternoon – Arrive in Dunedin: Known for its Scottish heritage and vibrant student vibe, highlights of Dunedin include:
- Dunedin Railway Station: A stunning 1906 Edwardian Baroque building often called “NZ’s most photographed building”.
- Signal Hill: Drive up for a panoramic sunset view over “the Middle-earth of Dunedin” (parts of the city and peninsula stood in for scenes in The Hobbit films).
- Museums: The Otago Museum (near the university) has a significant Pacific and Māori collection, while the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum (free entry) covers local history, including Māori and colonial stories.
Evening – Activities in Dunedin:
- St. Clair Beach: Stroll this popular surf spot and the Esplanade with its cafes, surf shops, and restaurants.
- Emerson’s Brewery: Check out this Dunedin institution for a tour and a tasting paddle of their delicious beers – the food’s great, too.
Where to Stay in your camper in Dunedin:
- Dunedin Holiday Park: Near St. Kilda (good for beach access).
- Leith Valley Holiday Park: More secluded, near bush.
- Freedom Camping: Self-contained vans can park overnight at three areas: Ocean View Reserve (15 km south of the city), Warrington Domain, and Thomas Burns Street car park. Always check the latest bylaws or ask at the i-SITE visitor centre if you’re unsure.
🦭🐧Local Tip: Take a drive out of the city to the Otago Peninsula, you’ll find stunning beaches and incredible wildlife including a mainland royal albatross colony, penguin colonies, seals, and sea lions.
Day 6: Dunedin to Oamaru or Lake Tekapō (via inland route)
We’re coming to the end of our seven-day Christchurch to Dunedin itinerary.
Need to head back to the Escape Rentals Christchurch depot to drop off your campervan?
You can drive straight back to Christchurch from Dunedin, it’ll take you about 5 hours without stopping.
If you’d rather take your time and enjoy some sights on the way back, here are a few options for how to spend your final two days:
Option 1 – Relaxed return via Oamaru (good if you want a short drive and a surf):
- Distance: ~115 km to Oamaru (1.5 hrs), ~250 km to Christchurch from there (4 hrs next day).
- Morning: Have a chilled final morning in Dunedin – grab coffee at the Octagon or Esplanade, stroll Baldwin Street (the world’s steepest street), or hit the surf at St Clair if conditions are right.
- Midday: Begin your drive north. Take SH1 and stop in Oamaru again – explore anything you missed (the Victorian precinct, cheese tasting, or penguin spots).
- Evening: Camp at Oamaru Harbour Tourist Park or a designated freedom camping spot around Oamaru. This gives you a chilled final evening and a short driving day tomorrow.
Option 2 – More scenic inland route via Lake Tekapō (longer but beautiful):
This route makes Day 7’s drive to the Christchurch depot shorter and more scenic than just backtracking SH1.
- Distance: ~300 km (4.5–5 hrs drive to Tekapō), ~225 km to Christchurch the next day.
- Morning: Depart Dunedin early and take SH1 north, then cut inland via SH83 and SH8 through the Waitaki Valley. This drive passes lakes Aviemore, Benmore, and Pukaki – all stunning, especially in the late afternoon.
- Afternoon: Arrive at Lake Tekapō. Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd or soak in Tekapō Springs one more time.
- Evening: Camp at Lake McGregor DOC campsite or Lake Tekapō Holiday Park. Excellent stargazing here if the sky is clear! ⭐
Day 7: Tekapō or Oamaru to Christchurch (return campervan to Escape Rentals)
Departing from Oamaru:
- Distance: ~250 km (~3.5–4 hrs via SH1).
- Stop at Timaru or Rakaia for a break (Rakaia has a giant salmon statue and some great bakeries).
- Return the van to Escape Rentals depot in Christchurch by the required time.
- Optional: Spend the night in Christchurch or near the airport if you’re flying home the next day.
Departing from Tekapō:
- Distance: ~225 km (~3 hrs via SH79 and SH1).
- Optional detour: Visit Fairlie for a famous pie or swing past Geraldine for a final countryside coffee.
- Arrive in Christchurch early afternoon. Clean out the van, refuel, and do your final tidy-up before drop-off.
- If you have time, explore Christchurch Botanic Gardens or Riverside Market to finish your New Zealand road trip on a high note.
Book your South Island adventure with Escape Rentals
This Christchurch to Dunedin route is just a taste of the true South Island – alpine wonders to coastal wildlife, all on your schedule.
Van life isn’t just about getting from A to B; it’s a flexible, independent, and budget-friendly way to travel.
Wondering what it’ll cost? Check out our NZ campervan hire cost guide for tips on planning your trip.
We offer one-way rentals between Christchurch and our Auckland depot, too.
Get a quote for your dates or call our friendly team at 0800 21 61 71.
Answering your questions about travelling from Christchurch to Dunedin in a campervan
Do I need a special driver’s licence to hire a campervan in New Zealand?
No special licence is required. If you’re visiting from the UK, EU (including France and Germany), or the US, you can drive in New Zealand using your full valid driver’s licence for up to 12 months.
However, if your licence isn’t in English, you’ll need an official translation or an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your original licence.
Read more in our guide about driving in NZ with an overseas license.
Is it legal to freedom camp along the Christchurch to Dunedin route?
Yes – but only if you’re travelling in a certified self-contained campervan, and only in designated areas. Freedom camping is allowed in many regions, but each district has its own bylaws.
Rangers do regular checks, and fines for illegal camping are severe. To stay safe, check local council maps, apps like CamperMate and always obey signage at your chosen site.
Learn more about our self-contained campervans.
How much does it cost to rent a campervan for a 7-day South Island road trip?
Prices vary depending on the season, vehicle type, and availability. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from NZD $45–$150 per day with Escape Rentals.
For a detailed breakdown of what’s included and how to budget, check out our NZ campervan hire cost guide.
What’s the best time of year to drive from Christchurch to Dunedin?
We recommend travelling in the shoulder seasons – March to April or October to November. You’ll enjoy:
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- Milder weather
- Fewer crowds
- Cheaper accommodation and vehicle hire rates
New Zealand roads are generally safe and well-maintained, but in winter (June–August), expect icy conditions inland and check road reports before setting off.
How long does it take to drive from Christchurch to Dunedin in a campervan – and is 7 days enough?
Driving direct from Christchurch to Dunedin takes around 5 hours, but that would mean skipping some incredible sights. A 7-day itinerary gives you time to explore gems like Akaroa, Peel Forest, Lake Tekapo, Mt Cook (optional), and Oamaru at a relaxed pace.
Hiring a campervan gives you the freedom to explore at your own speed and stay overnight in stunning places you’d otherwise miss.