This journey from the Escape Rentals Christchurch depot to the adventure capital of Queenstown will take you through some of New Zealand’s most jaw-dropping landscapes – from alpine passes to glacier country, with plenty of hidden gems.
Our team of Kiwi road trip experts have crafted this itinerary specifically for travellers who want to discover the heart of Aotearoa – here’s a Google Maps journey with all the campsites locked in.
This route works brilliantly during the shoulder seasons (March-April or October-November) when you’ll enjoy mild weather, open trails, and far fewer crowds at a fraction of peak-season prices.
See our South Island campervan road trip itineraries for:
- Christchurch → Dunedin
- Christchurch → Nelson
- Christchurch → Picton
- Christchurch → Franz Josef
Ready to plan your South Island trip to Queenstown? Get a quote for your dates or keep reading for inspiration for the road trip of a lifetime.
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- Day 1: Christchurch → Arthur’s Pass National Park (155 km, ~2 hours)
- Day 2: Arthur’s Pass → West Coast: Punakaiki & Cape Foulwind (240 km, ~4 hours)
- Day 3: Westport → Hokitika (220 km, ~3.5 hours)
- Day 4: Hokitika → Fox Glacier (160 km, ~2.5 hours)
- Day 5: Fox Glacier to Wanaka (250 km, ~4–5 hours)
- Day 6 Option A: Wanaka → Lake Pukaki & Mt Cook (300 km, ~4 hours)
- Day 6 Option B: Wanaka → Queenstown (70km, ~1 hour plus stops)
- Day 7 Option A: Lake Tekapo → Christchurch (230 km, ~3 hours)
- Day 7 Option B: Explore Queenstown!
- Practical Campervan Travel Tips
- Return Journey Options
- FAQs
We’ve done our best to verify the information in this article as of March 2025. However, details around businesses, routes, camping locations, and pricing may change over time. We recommend checking with official sources like the Department of Conservation (DOC), your nearby iSites, and individual operators for the most up-to-date information while travelling.
Day 1: Christchurch → Arthur’s Pass National Park (155 km, ~2 hours)
Morning: After picking up your artistic wheels from our Christchurch depot, head down the road to Pak’nSave Moorhouse for supplies (bonus: keep your receipt for fuel discounts at their associated petrol stations!).
Today, you’ll follow the stunning SH73 across the Canterbury Plains toward the mighty Southern Alps.
Midday Highlight – Castle Hill/Kura Tāwhiti: Stop at these otherworldly limestone boulders about an hour from Christchurch.
Take 30-45 minutes to explore this natural playground – the perfect stretch after your first bit of driving.
Afternoon – Arthur’s Pass National Park: Continue climbing to Arthur’s Pass Village (920m elevation) and tackle the Devil’s Punchbowl Waterfall Track – a 1-hour return walk to a stunning 131-meter waterfall.
🦜Keep your eyes peeled for kea, our cheeky alpine parrots with a taste for rubber van parts!
The stars up here are mind-blowing on a clear night!
Day 2: Arthur’s Pass → West Coast: Punakaiki & Cape Foulwind (240 km, ~4 hours)
Morning: Pack up early and enjoy one of NZ’s most spectacular drives as you descend through Otira Gorge toward the wild West Coast.
The climate and scenery shift dramatically from alpine to temperate rainforest in just an hour – watch those temperature gauges climb!
Late Morning – Punakaiki Pancake Rocks: These bizarre limestone formations look like stacked pancakes (hence the name).
Time your 20-minute loop walk for high tide when the blowholes put on their most impressive show. Grab a coffee at the nearby café while you’re there!
Afternoon – Cape Foulwind & Tauranga Bay: Continue north to Cape Foulwind and take the coastal walkway (3.4km return) to view a thriving NZ fur seal colony. In shoulder season, you’ll likely have the viewing platform almost to yourself as you watch seals basking on the rocks below.
Bonus Adventure: If you’re keen for a surf, Tauranga Bay offers a beginner-friendly beach break with board and wetsuit rentals available through West Coast Surf (check their shoulder season hours in advance).
Nothing beats catching waves with mountains as your backdrop!
Where to Stay: If self-contained, freedom camp at the Tauranga Bay car park (ask at the Westport i-SITE to confirm current rules), or the campsite at Kapu/Charleston.
Sunset Spot: The West Coast is famous for its fiery sunsets – grab a spot at Cape Foulwind to watch the sun sink into the Tasman Sea. Pure magic!
Day 3: Westport → Hokitika (220 km, ~3.5 hours)
Morning: Hit the road south on the Great Coast Road (rated one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives).
Take advantage of roadside pullouts for views – the Irimahuwhero Lookout offers a breathtaking panorama showing just how wild and untouched the West Coast remains.
Midday – Greymouth to Hokitika: Cruise through Greymouth (a good place to refuel and grab a famous West Coast meat pie for lunch) and continue to Hokitika, NZ’s jade capital.
Pop into one of the many carving studios like Bonz ‘n Stonz where you can watch artisans crafting pounamu (greenstone) jewelry and learn about its significance to Māori culture.
Beach Stop: Don’t miss the driftwood Hokitika sign on the beach – an iconic photo spot that changes with every storm!
Afternoon – Hokitika Gorge: This incredible spot is a 33km drive inland from Hokitika (about 30-40 minutes) and offers a short walking track leading to swing bridges over the most unnaturally turquoise water you’ll ever see.
The milky blue colour comes from glacial flour – it’s a photographer’s dream, especially after rain!
Where to Stay: Lake Mahinapua DOC Campground (10 km south of town) offers tranquil lakeside sites, or if you’re self-contained, Hokitika has a designated freedom camping area by the beach.
Evening Adventure: After dinner, visit the Hokitika Glow Worm Dell just north of town – a free, magical experience watching hundreds of tiny blue lights twinkling in the darkness.
A dazzling end to your day!
Day 4: Hokitika → Fox Glacier (160 km, ~2.5 hours)
Morning: Continue south on SH6 through Te Wāhipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area, a region of primeval rainforests and rugged beaches. The driving today is spectacular – ancient rainforest on one side, wild Tasman Sea on the other. Keep an eye out for the Harihari roadside Kiwi sculpture!
Midday – Franz Josef Glacier/Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere: Arrive at Franz Josef township and take the Franz Josef Valley Walk, a moderate 1.7km return trail following the Waiho River toward the glacier’s terminal face.
Look for signage sharing the Māori legend of the glacier, said to be the frozen tears of a woman mourning her lost lover.
Safety Note: Do not go beyond marked viewpoints – glaciers are unpredictable and dangerous!
Afternoon – Lake Matheson: Just 5km from Fox Glacier township lies the famous Lake Matheson.
Take the 1.5-hour loop track around this mirror-like lake for phenomenal reflections of Aoraki/Mt Cook and Mt Tasman on calm days (aim for late afternoon or sunset when wind often dies down for the perfect mirror).
Where to Stay: Fox Glacier has several options – the TOP 10 Holiday Park offers powered sites and hot showers, while budget travellers might prefer heading 30 minutes south to Pleasant Flat DOC Camp for a more authentic wilderness experience.
Night Sky Alert: This region offers incredible stargazing. If it’s clear, step outside your van at night to see the Milky Way spread across the sky – no light pollution means the stars are unbelievably bright!
Day 5: Fox Glacier to Wanaka (250 km, ~4–5 hours)
Morning: Time to cross the Southern Alps!
Head south toward Haast then turn inland on SH6. The Haast Pass (Tioripātea) road offers several stunning short walks:
- Thunder Creek Falls (5-minute walk to a 28m waterfall)
- Fantail Falls (2-minute walk)
- The incredible Blue Pools Track near Makarora (1-1.5hr return walk to crystal-clear blue pools perfect for photos)
Midday Lakes: As you descend toward Wanaka, you’ll pass between Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea – the highway zigzags between these gorgeous lakes.
Stop at “The Neck,” where you can see both lakes simultaneously from the same spot – an amazing place for a picnic lunch!
Afternoon – Wanaka: Arrive in this lakeside gem and stretch your legs with the Mt Iron Loop Track (4.5km, 1-2 hour walk with great views).
Or, if you started your day early and have energy to spare, tackle the Diamond Lake & Rocky Mountain Track (7km, 3-hour loop with spectacular panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and Mt Aspiring/Tititea).
Sunset Spot: Stroll the lakefront to find the famous “Wanaka Tree” (that lone willow growing out of the lake that’s all over Instagram). At sunset, the lighting is magical!
Where to Stay: Albert Town Campground, just 10 minutes from downtown Wanaka, offers riverside camping for a reasonable fee. Another budget-friendly option is Glendhu Bay Campground, which is peaceful during shoulder season.
Local Treat: Grab a pint at Kai Whakapai or Rhyme & Reason Brewery to celebrate reaching the halfway point of your journey!
Day 6 Option A: Wanaka → Lake Pukaki & Mt Cook (300 km, ~4 hours)
Morning: For those keen to see NZ’s highest mountain, here’s an awesome alternative route!
Take SH8 over the beautiful Lindis Pass, where golden tussock landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see.
Stop at the summit viewpoint for photos of this uniquely Kiwi landscape.
Midday – Twizel & Lake Pukaki: Pass through the village of Omarama and the town of Twizel (great for refuelling and picking up supplies).
At Lake Pukaki, prepare to be blown away – this turquoise lake with Aoraki/Mt Cook as a backdrop is simply stunning.
The Lake Pukaki viewpoint near the highway junction is perfect for photos.
Afternoon – Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park: Turn off for a 55km detour along Lake Pukaki’s shore to Mt Cook Village.
Here, tackle the famous Hooker Valley Track – a mostly flat 10km return trail that winds up the valley over three swing bridges, ending at Hooker Lake with icebergs and unbelievable views of Aoraki/Mt Cook (3,724m).
This 3-hour return walk is one of NZ’s most rewarding day hikes!
Where to Stay: The Lake McGregor Campsite (8km from nearby Tekapo) is a scenic DOC option.
Stargazing: You’re now in the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve – some of the clearest, darkest skies in the world.
The star viewing is absolutely mind-blowing! Try the Sky Guide app to learn more about the constellations.
Day 6 option B: Wanaka → Queenstown (70km, ~1 hour plus stops)
Morning: For those heading straight to Queenstown, take the Crown Range Road – New Zealand’s highest main road with absolutely spectacular alpine views.
Midday – Arrowtown Detour: Before hitting Queenstown, take a slight detour to charming Arrowtown, a well-preserved gold rush village.
Wander the historic main street, visit the Chinese Settlement, or try your luck panning for gold in the Arrow River.
Afternoon – Queenstown: Arrive in the adventure capital! Take a stroll around the gardens and waterfront to get your bearings.
For the energetic, the Queenstown Hill Time Walk (2-3 hour return) offers stunning panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.
Where to Stay: Queenstown has several holiday parks, but for budget travellers, we recommend 12 Mile Delta DOC Campground (25 minutes from town) or Moke Lake Campground (also DOC, stunning mountain setting). Both are first come, first served.
Evening: Celebrate with a legendary Fergburger (yes, they’re worth the hype!) or take the Skyline Gondola up Bob’s Peak for sunset views over Queenstown.
Day 7 Option A: Lake Tekapo → Christchurch (230 km, ~3 hours)
Morning: If you chose the Mt Cook option and need to return to Christchurch, catch the sunrise colours over Lake Tekapo – the mountains often blush pink in the dawn light. Consider the Mt John Summit Track (1.5-2 hour loop) for 360° views of the Mackenzie Basin’s lakes and plains.
Midday Journey: Head back to Christchurch via the Inland Scenic Route through Fairlie (famous for its gourmet pies) and Geraldine.
For a cultural detour, consider visiting the Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre in Timaru to learn about ancient Māori drawings on limestone cliffs.
Return to Christchurch: Aim to arrive by mid-afternoon, giving yourself time to refuel and clean your trusty campervan before returning it to our depot.
Day 7 Option B: Explore Queenstown!
Full Day Adventure: If ending your journey in Queenstown, use this day to explore the adventure capital! Options include:
- Jet boating on the Shotover River
- Wine tasting in nearby Gibbston Valley
- Day trip to breathtaking Glenorchy (40 minutes away)
- Hiking part of the Routeburn Track (one of NZ’s Great Walks)
- Relaxing at Onsen Hot Pools with mountain views
Be Mindful: Queenstown is a popular destination with limited parking. Be mindful of time limits and payment requirements as parking enforcement is strict – always check signage and set a reminder to avoid unexpected fines during your adventure.
Practical Campervan Travel Tips
Driving & Road Rules
Escape Rentals provides a handbook and personal guidance for driving on NZ roads, but here are the top things to keep in mind:
- Left side driving: If it’s your first time, remember “driver stays in the middle of the road”
- Speed limits: Most highways are 100km/h max, but plan for slower travel (80km/h average) on winding mountain roads
- One-lane bridges: Common in rural NZ – yield to vehicles coming from the direction shown with the red arrow
- Fuel planning: Fill up in larger towns (Christchurch, Greymouth, Wanaka, Queenstown) where prices are better
- Weather checks: Download the MetService app and check conditions before mountain passes
- Driving time: Distances take longer than you might expect – allow extra time and avoid driving after dark
Freedom Camping & Campsites
If you hire one of Escape Rentals’ self-contained campervans and want to freedom camp, you must respect the rules and look after the environment.
Be mindful of the following:
- Self-contained vehicles only: Freedom camping spots require self-contained certification
- Apps to download: Rankers Camping NZ and CamperMate are essential for finding legal spots
- DOC sites: Basic but beautiful locations for a fair price (some free)
- Leave no trace: Always take your rubbish with you and respect camping restrictions
- Power-up schedule: Plan to hit a powered site every 2-3 days to recharge your van’s battery
- Off-season bonus: Far more camping availability and flexibility than in peak summer!
Budget-Friendly Tips
- Pak’nSave grocery stops: Generally NZ’s cheapest supermarket chain (get that discount fuel too!)
- Free activities: Most hiking tracks, beaches, and viewpoints are completely free
- DOC visitor centres: Great source of free maps and information
- Shoulder season benefits: Lower rates at holiday parks and fewer booking requirements
- Cook your own meals: The kitchen setup in your Escape van makes this easy!
Essential Kiwi Etiquette
- Kia ora: A friendly greeting or thank you goes a long way with locals
- Slow down on gravel: Reduce speed and give cyclists and walkers plenty of space
- Respect private property: If a beach access or walking track crosses farmland, always close gates
- Indigenous culture: Learn about the Māori significance of the areas you visit
- Take your rubbish with you: care for New Zealand – leave places better than you found them
Return Journey Options
After exploring your final destination, you have a few options:
- Return to the Escape Rentals Christchurch depot: Take the scenic route back via Lake Tekapo and Mt Cook
- Milford Sound extension: Add 2-3 days to visit this incredible fjord (a must-see if you have time!)
Whatever you choose, your Escape Rentals campervan is the perfect companion for experiencing the South Island’s breathtaking beauty.
Our artistic, reliable vans are designed for budget-conscious travellers who want the freedom to discover New Zealand at their own pace.
Have an amazing journey, and remember, in New Zealand we don’t say goodbye – we say “ka kite anō” (see you again)!
Christchurch to Queenstown Roadtrip FAQs
Can you drive from Queenstown to Christchurch in one day?
Absolutely, you can drive from Queenstown to Christchurch in a single day (about 6 hours non-stop), but we reckon it’s well worth breaking up the journey to explore some incredible spots along the way! Remember that South Island roads can be windy and scenic, so plan for plenty of stops and drive to the conditions.
Can you park a campervan in Queenstown?
Large campervans are prohibited in Queenstown’s town centre, but smaller campers like Escape Rentals’ are fine. You can park your Escape Rentals campervan in Queenstown at designated areas like the Boundary Street car park or Queenstown Gardens during the day. For overnight stays, we recommend the DOC campsites or holiday parks around the area. Central Queenstown has parking restrictions, so check the signs carefully and download the CamperMate app for the latest parking info.
How long does it take to drive from Queenstown to Christchurch?
The drive from Queenstown to Christchurch typically takes around 6 hours non-stop, but most of our customers take a few days with breaks to soak in the stunning scenery and stretch their legs. The journey covers about 480km through some of New Zealand’s most spectacular landscapes, so give yourself plenty of time to enjoy it!
Where to stop between Queenstown and Christchurch?
Our favourite stops between Queenstown and Christchurch include the charming gold rush town of Arrowtown, the stunning blue waters of Lake Tekapo, the majestic Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, and the quirky little town of Geraldine. Lake Pukaki’s brilliant turquoise waters make for an epic photo stop, and if you’re keen on a short walk, the Hooker Valley Track is an absolute must-do!