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Our 7-day South Island roadie kicks off in Christchurch and winds its way to Picton via awe-inspiring mountain scenery, quirky coastal towns, and lush countryside.

This laid-back route is a dream for foodies, blending short but stunning drives with coastal hikes, beaches, wildlife encounters, and the best food and wine this side of the Cook Strait.

Get ready to soak up the magic of Aotearoa, from Kaikōura’s dusky dolphins to Marlborough’s world-famous vineyards!

But first, grab an Escape Rentals campervan quote for your travel dates – shoulder season (March-April, October-November) is the sweet spot!

Keep reading or skip ahead:

Now let’s hit the road! 🚐💨

 

Day 1: Christchurch to Hanmer Springs – 135 km, ~2 hours

Morning: Pick up your campervan from the Escape Rentals Christchurch depot on 15 Kingsley Street, Sydenham.

First stop, the PAK’nSAVE Moorhouse to stock up on great-value groceries, toiletries, and supplies. Remember to save your PAK’nSAVE receipt to get fuel discounts at their associated petrol stations!

Next, take a quick Christchurch highlight tour by popping into the International Antarctic Centre, visiting the Christchurch Art Gallery, or strolling the Botanic Gardens in Hagley Park.

By late morning, jump into your van and begin driving north on State Highway 1 (SH1). Take in the Canterbury Plains scenery as you head toward the Southern Alps.

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Midday: After about an hour, stretch your legs in Waipara Valley, North Canterbury’s wine region. This area is well-known for its earthy Pinot Noir, aromatic Riesling, and rich Chardonnay, which thrive in Waipara’s dry climate and limestone-rich soils.

Stop for lunch and a tasting at a winery (Torlesse, Black Estate, Waipara Springs, or The Bone Line are great options), and consider buying a bottle or two for campsite evenings!

If wine tasting isn’t your thing, keep driving until you reach the rural town of Culverden. Grab lunch and ice cream, and take a look at the local art gallery and historic Hurunui Hotel.

Afternoon: Arrive in Hanmer Springs by mid-afternoon after a short but stunning drive along the Waiau River gorge – pull over at lookouts to catch a glimpse of snow-capped peaks in the distance

Hanmer Springs is renowned for its Thermal Pools and Hot Springs, so treat yourself to a relaxing soak and a few waterslides. It’s a great way to unwind after the flight and your first day on New Zealand roads.

Next, explore the quaint alpine village. If you’re hungry, you’ll find a range of options from classic Kiwi fish and chips and pub fare to Thai and Indian cuisine. Enjoy! 😋

After dinner, go on the 30-minute Conical Hill walk for a panoramic view over the town.

Where to Stay: Overnight at Alpine Adventure Holiday Park or Hanmer Springs TOP 10 Holiday Park for a powered site to recharge your van’s battery, or make your way to the Hanmer DOC Base for basic freedom camping by the Hanmer Heritage Forest (if you’re self-contained).

🛥️ Local Tip: Keen for more action? Hanmer Springs Attractions offers bungy jumping, quad biking, jet boating, and forest mountain biking – all choice ways to crank up the adventure.

 

Day 2: Hanmer Springs to Kaikōura – 130 km, ~2 hours

Morning: Take in a bit of fresh air in Hanmer with a forest walk.

Try the Conical Hill Walk if you missed it last night, or stroll through the towering trees of Hanmer Forest Park. Afterwards, reward yourself with a late brekkie at Powerhouse Café; locals swear by their coffee and hearty brunch.

Otherwise, head back to the hot springs – or hit them for the first time if you skipped them yesterday. Morning tickets are usually cheaper, and you beat the crowds.

By late morning, depart Hanmer in your colourful Escape Rentals campervan, heading out via SH7 and Route 70 (Inland Kaikōura Road) toward the east coast. This drive is wonderfully tranquil, leading you through rural farmlands and foothills.

If you feel like taking a break, the rustic Mt. Lyford Lodge is fantastic for grabbing a quick cuppa and scone with a view of the mountains.

Afternoon: Continue along Route 70 as it winds toward the Pacific Ocean. As you approach Kaikōura, you’ll see a dramatic meeting of mountains and sea.

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Once in town, visit the i-SITE Visitor Centre for the latest info on wildlife tours. This region is world-renowned for marine life, so you have to book a whale watching or dolphin encounter for early tomorrow. Why early? Because morning tours have a high success rate for spotting sperm whales and dolphins year-round.

Next, pop into the Kaikōura Museum to check out exhibits on the 2016 quake and local history, then hit the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway in the late afternoon. Starting from the town centre, this easy 2-3 hour return hike takes you to several viewpoints overlooking the Pacific. You’ll likely see fur seals lazing on the rocks and catch marvellous scenes of the Seaward Kaikōura Range meeting the ocean.

As the sun sets, tuck into some seafood for dinner. Kaikōura’s name means “meal of crayfish” in Māori, and a must-visit is Nin’s Bin, a legendary lobster caravan just 20 minutes north, serving fresh grilled crayfish right by the sea. Back in town, the historic Pier Hotel dishes up excellent fish and chips and local brews.

Where to Stay: Kaikōura TOP 10 Holiday Park is a comfy, central spot with great facilities and powered sites. In Kaikōura District, self-contained campers can freedom camp for one night at Jimmy Armers Beach or Pohowera (South Bay). They’re free, right by the ocean, but totally bare-bones.

🦭🌌 Local Tip: Keep your eyes peeled on coastal roads near Kaikōura – seals often wander onto the tarmac at night or early morning. While you’re taking it slow, pull over and look up. With hardly any light around, the night sky truly sparkles.

 

Day 3: Kaikōura to Blenheim (Marlborough)– 130 km, ~2 hours

Morning: This morning is your chance for an unforgettable wildlife encounter. Head out on a Whale Watch Kaikōura tour or a dolphin swimming trip first thing.

Kaikōura’s deep offshore canyon means sperm whales are present year-round, and you can also spot dusky dolphins, albatross, or even orcas. If boats aren’t your thing, an alternative is a scenic flight tour to view whales from above.

Wrap up your wild Kaikōura activities by late morning. Before leaving town, grab brunch – perhaps paua (abalone) fritters from Kaikōura Seafood BBQ Kiosk.

Early Afternoon: Begin the drive north to Blenheim on SH1. This stretch of road hugs the Pacific coast for much of the way, offering breathtaking vistas. After about 20 km, be sure to stop at the Ohau Point Seal Colony lookout. This roadside platform is easily accessible and lets you observe a large colony of fur seals in their natural habitat. You’ll smell and hear them before you see them! 👃

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Continue north past the tiny coastal village of Kēkerengū, where The Store café makes for an ideal coffee and restroom break with ocean views.

As you cross into the Marlborough region, the landscape transitions to drier hills and even more vineyards. Take notice of the Lake Grassmere salt ponds as you pass – they turn a striking pink thanks to the natural evaporation process.

Afternoon/Evening: Roll into Blenheim, the famed heart of NZ’s largest wine region. Sauvignon Blanc is the star here, and producers like Cloudy Bay or Gibson Bridge offer beautiful cellar doors and wine gardens.

Start with a visit to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre on the outskirts of Blenheim. This world-class museum, set up with help from filmmaker Peter Jackson, showcases WWI and WWII aircraft in dramatic displays.

In the evening, explore Blenheim’s town centre: the Seymour Square gardens are lovely for a stroll, and there are plenty of eateries nearby.

For a seafood and wine pairing, head to Frank’s Oyster Bar & Eatery to enjoy dishes like Cloudy Bay clams or green-lipped mussels, perfect with crisp Marlborough Savvy. If you’re into hops, 5Tapped pours a rotating lineup of local craft brews, from crisp lagers to IPAs..

Where to Stay: For full comfort and amenities, Spring Creek Holiday Park is a solid choice, tucked away in a leafy corner.

Rolling up in a self-contained Escape Rentals campervan? Marlborough District allows you to freedom camp at Wairau Diversion Reserve, Renwick Domain, and Taylor Dam Reserve – but note that these spots have limited facilities and fill up quickly, so arrive early to secure your spot.

🍇 Local Tip: Plan ahead and book a visit to Sleepers Vineyard in Kēkerengū. This small, family-run cellar specialises in Spanish varieties like Tempranillo and Albariño. It’s a hidden gem for wine lovers – open by appointment only.

 

Day 4: Blenheim to Havelock (Gateway to the Sounds)– 45 km, ~40 minutes

Morning: Today’s perfect for exploring Marlborough’s renowned vineyards with a self-guided tour from Wine Tours by Bike.

They’ll hook you up with bikes, helmets, and a map of nearby cellar doors, so you can cruise the Golden Mile trail around Renwick and enjoy a cruisy day of exercise and wine tasting on two wheels.

Otherwise, walk off last night’s seafood with a hike in Wither Hills Farm Park. The Mt Vernon lookout is a favourite – the gentle climb rewards you with epic views over Blenheim, the Wairau Valley, and even out to Cloudy Bay on a clear day.

🍫 Foodie Tip: Don’t miss a sweet treat from Makana Confections. This boutique chocolate factory/shop is renowned for indulgences like macadamia butter toffee crunch. Stop by on your way out of Blenheim.

Afternoon: The drive to Havelock only takes 35–40 minutes, so you’ll be there in no time.

This small harbour town is proudly known as the “Green-Lipped Mussel Capital of the World.” You’ll spot mussel boats in the marina and piles of shells around town. Naturally, mussels are the specialty, so pop into the iconic Mussel Pot restaurant to try them in at least a dozen ways, from creamy chowder to steamed in white wine.

Now it’s time to explore the magnificent Marlborough Sounds. From Havelock, you’ll transition onto the Queen Charlotte Drive, a scenic route winding along the Sounds’ coastline.

Your first stop is the Cullen Point Lookout. There’s a quick 10-minute return walk to a picture-perfect viewpoint over Mahau Sound and the Pelorus and Havelock estuaries. Keen for a longer hike? The hour-long Coastal Track loops further along the ridge with stunning outlooks over turquoise waters and bush-clad hills.

Back on the road, head east and find a scenic spot. Two top options are Momorangi Bay and Aussie Bay. Wherever you choose, spend the rest of the afternoon unwinding by the Sounds’ tranquil waters. Go for a swim, chill at the beach, or recharge your batteries.

As the sun dips, keep an eye out for native wildlife. You might spot a curious Weka (our native woodhen) poking around or hear the haunting call of a Morepork owl in the trees. With barely any light pollution, the stars here put on a serious show.

Where to Stay: The Aussie Bay DOC site is a simple, scenic spot with a long drop loo. It’s budget-friendly and works on a first-come, first-served basis – just pay at the self-registration station when you arrive. If you prefer more convenience, circle back to Smiths Farm Holiday Park along Queen Charlotte Drive for powered sites and cabins.

🦟 Local Tip: Keep insect repellent handy by the water. This area is a hotspot for mosquitoes and sandflies, especially on warm, humid evenings – even in shoulder season. And watch your food at campsites; cheeky Wekas are master pinchers!

 

Day 5: Havelock to Picton – 20 km, ~ 30 minutes

Morning: Wake up to bird songs and gentle lapping waves. Kick back and enjoy a “sweet as” breakfast by the water.

Today’s drive to Picton via Queen Charlotte Drive may be short, but give yourself plenty of time to take in the spectacular scenery.

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Continue east along the twisty coastal road as it weaves through native forest and idyllic inlets. Every few kilometres, there’s a place to pull over and admire the view. Whenever you see a lookout sign, stop for a different angle of the Sounds’ turquoise waters and lush green hills.

Afternoon: Arrive in Picton, the picturesque port town that links the South and North Islands. Park your Escape Rentals campervan and start with a walk around the Picton Waterfront area.

The marina is dotted with sails, and you can watch the Interislander and Bluebridge ferries come and go through the sound. An impressive sight, especially when they’re docking.

For a dose of history, visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum on the waterfront. The Edwin Fox is a historic 19th-century vessel, the world’s oldest surviving merchant sailing ship. You can board its weathered hull and learn about its global voyages, from carrying British troops to Crimea and convicts to Australia, to bringing settlers to New Zealand and serving as an Antarctic freezer ship. It’s a fascinating step back in time.

If the sun is shining and you don’t feel like visiting a museum, consider a Queen Charlotte Sound mail boat cruise.

The mail boat runs in the afternoons (Monday to Saturday in summer, and Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in winter) delivering post to remote bays and remote shoreline communities. Tag along for a scenic tour of hidden inlets, with commentary on local life along the Sounds.

Where to Stay: Picton Tasman Holiday Park is family-friendly and just a stroll from the centre of town, while Parklands Marina Holiday Park sits in a quieter bay 4 km out, with plenty of space and great facilities. Freedom camping’s pretty limited near Picton and mostly banned in town, with the nearest spots at Wairau Diversion or further into the Sounds. Since you’re here for two nights, a holiday park’s your best bet.

🏖️Local Tip: Governor’s Bay Beach is a hidden gem. Stop at this pristine sandy beach (accessible on foot only) on your way to Picton. With its crystal-clear water, it’s perfect for a peaceful swim, a bit of sunbathing, and snapping Instagram photos.

 

Day 6: Explore Picton & Marlborough Sounds – 20 km, ~ 30 minutes

Morning: Get ready to soak up more of the incredible Marlborough Sounds.

We recommend venturing into the Queen Charlotte Sound on a sea kayaking tour to truly appreciate this aquatic paradise. This 2-3 hour paddle lets you explore nearby bays, where you might encounter little blue penguins, Hector’s dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, and even rare seabirds like the King Shag.

Alternatively, hop on a morning ferry to Motuara, Mistletoe Bay, or Lochmara Lodge, where you can hike on sections of the Queen Charlotte Track, visit wildlife sanctuaries and nature observatories, or go bird spotting.

Afternoon: Get back into your Escape Rentals campervan and drive up to Bobs Bay Reserve, a secluded cove. Cook up some lunch, then settle in by the water to eat.

Next, keep driving northeast for about 15 minutes until you get to the Karaka Point car park. Here, take the peninsula walking trail (30 minutes return) leading past a Maori pā – a historic hillfort or fortified settlement – to a stunning viewpoint surrounded by water on three sides. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect on the region’s history and natural beauty.

Evening: Catch the sunset on the Tirohanga Track, also known as the Snout Track. Drive to the car park on Victoria Domain Road, then follow the track along the peninsula (“The Snout”) until you reach the Queen Charlotte View lookout. Marvel at the sunset, then head back; it’s about 1.5 hours return.

As darkness falls, treat yourself to a farewell dinner back at Picton Harbour. If you haven’t tried New Zealand’s famous fish and chips yet, have it tonight and savour it like a Kiwi by dousing your chips in tomato sauce.

End the night with a scoop of hokey pokey ice cream (a local favorite) from an ice cream shop.

Where to Stay: No need to pack up and move when you’re already sorted. Stick with the spot you stayed at last night. Easy as.

Local Tip: Catch a quick water taxi from Picton to Kaipūpū Wildlife Sanctuary, a predator-free peninsula tucked between the marina and the Sounds. The 2.7 km loop track winds through lush native bush, with a good chance of spotting tūī, korimako, and other native birds.

 

Day 7: Picton to… South Island, North Island, or Home? 🤔

Morning: Head to the harbour for breakfast, buy a souvenir or two, then take a walk over Coathanger Bridge to Shelley Beach.

As you ponder the ferries coming and going, think about where you’re going next.

You have options:

1. Discover more of the South Island. From Picton, it’s easy to loop back to Christchurch and join another Escape Rentals roadie:

2. Ferry over to the North Island. Catch a Bluebridge ferry to Wellington and continue your adventure on the North Island. Your Escape campervan can come along – just drop it off at our Auckland depot when you head home.

⛴️ Crossing Tips: Arrive at the terminal at least an hour early, fuel up on High Street beforehand, and make sure everything’s secure and switched off – you won’t have access to your camper during the voyage, and it can get choppy!

3. Return to Christchurch and fly home. If your NZ adventure is wrapping up, you need to drive back to Escape Rentals Christchurch, drop off the van, and catch your flight.

We suggest taking the longer inland route through the Lewis Pass – the Southern Alps’ northernmost Alpine pass. As you ascend into the mountains, you’ll marvel at tussocks, beech forests, and a few cheeky kea parrots. 🦜

Wherever the road leads you, you can count on your trusty Escape Rentals campervan to turn heads while you explore Aotearoa’s jaw-dropping beauty – hassle-free and right on budget.

Get a quote online or give our friendly team a call.

Until we meet in Christchurch, “haere rā” (goodbye) and safe travels!

 

NZ Campervan Travel Tips

Before you hit the road, check out a few tips to make your Kiwi road trip even more epic.

 

Driving in New Zealand

  • Stick to the left. Always drive on the left side of the road – remember, the driver should be nearest the centre line.
  • Respect speed limits. Most NZ highways are 100km/h, but twisty terrain means you’ll often be cruising slower.
  • Read the Escape Rentals driving handbook. Get to know your campervan and local road rules before you set off from the Christchurch depot.
  • Watch out for animals. Sheep, cows, and wildlife don’t care about road rules – they pop out without warning, especially around dawn or dusk.
  • Mind one-lane bridges. They’re fairly common in rural areas. If you see a red arrow on the sign, give way to oncoming cars.
  • Download offline maps and translation apps. Cell coverage is patchy in rural areas, so having offline navigation really helps.
  • Don’t be fooled by short distances or the weather. NZ roads are slower than you think, and the weather can turn on a dime. Download the MetService app, give yourself plenty of time, and avoid driving when you’re tired.
  • Pull over for the locals. If you’re taking it slow to soak in the views, let faster drivers pass using pull-over bays. It’s the Kiwi way to keep things cruisy.

 

Budget Hacks

  • Rent an affordable Escape Rentals campervan. We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees or extra driver charges. Your van comes kitted out with bedding, cooking gear, a solar shower, and camp chairs. Plus, you get 24/7 roadside assistance and flexible insurance options for stress-free travel. Suss out our NZ campervan hire cost guide for more info!
  • Shop at PAK’nSAVE. Go for the lowest grocery prices in NZ, then use their fuel discounts at associated petrol stations to save on gas, too!
  • Speaking of petrol, plan your fuel stops carefully. Fill up in larger towns (Christchurch, Kaikōura, Blenheim) for lower prices.
  • Keep an eye out for roadside stalls. Grab fresh fruit, veggies, and homemade treats at the best price.
  • Take advantage of free activities. Most hiking tracks, beaches, and viewpoints are completely free, as are many museums.
  • Cook your meals. Your campervan kitchen can save you heaps of cash!
  • Forget about bottled water, fill up from the tap. It’s safe in NZ, unless signposted otherwise.

 

Freedom Camping

  • Freedom camping is only for self-contained campervans. If your van isn’t self-contained, rangers can slap you with a $400+ fine.
  • Do not camp wherever you want. Respect the rules, the locals, and the whenua (land) by sticking to approved camping areas and DOC campsites.
  • Download camping apps before you travel. Rankers Camping NZ and CamperMate are vital for finding legal spots because freedom camping rules change frequently.
  • Remember to charge your campervan. Stop at powered campsites every 2-3 nights to recharge your van’s battery and keep it running.
  • Sleep at DOC sites. They’re cheap, beautiful, and a true Kiwi classic. Snag a Campsite Pass to save even more!
  • Check tide times before exploring nearby beaches or coastal areas. Some spots can get cut off by the tide, so time your visit carefully to avoid getting separated from your van.
  • Visit in shoulder season. It’s the best time to camp thanks to fewer crowds and better availability.

 

Kiwi Culture

  • Say “Kia ora” and connect with locals. It means “be healthy” in Māori, and it’s used for “hello”, “goodbye”, and “cheers”. A great conversation starter.
  • Discover Māori culture. Learning about iwi (tribes), their traditions, and their history gives your trip real meaning.
  • Respect sacred places and sites. Many Māori wāhi tapu (sacred places), including waterways and landmarks, are off limits. Honour these restrictions when visiting cultural sites.
  • Leave no trace. Bin all your rubbish, and if you spot any left behind, give it a quick tidy-up. Help us keep our outdoors pristine.
  • Respect private property. Always close gates behind you on farmland or beaches – the locals appreciate it and it keeps animals safe.