Join thousands of fellow campervan travellers
Sign up for our Britz newsletter to receive inspirational travel content and awesome deals, and we'll send you a copy of our Ultimate RV guide!
Thanks
Please confirm subscription in your email.
1. Havelock
About halfway between Nelson and Blenheim lies the historic township of Havelock. This coastal village, once a goldmining settlement, is also known as the ‘Greenshell Mussel Capital of the World’. And the best place to try these delicious shellfish is at The Mussel Pot. You can sample mussels cooked pretty much any way you like them – grilled, battered, marinated, in a delicious sauce… yum! Afterwards, take a walk through the township and check out some of the boutique art and craft galleries.
2. Marfells Beach
Located 30 minutes southeast of Blenheim (off State Highway 1), is picturesque Marfells Beach. This DOC reserve and campsite makes for a beautiful spot to park up for a night or two. Set up your campervan on the sheltered grass parking area, relax, and listen to the ocean lapping just metres away. The site has basic camping facilities including cold showers and toilets. The Marfells Beach/Cape Campbell Route walkway nearby makes for a great half-day walk.
3. Mapua
If you’re heading to the Tasman region, do not miss Mapua. It’s a short drive off State Highway 60 and well worth the diversion. Stop for lunch at the Golden Bear Brewery Company and indulge in tacos or nachos with a refreshing beer or cider. For a great coffee and a sweet treat, head to Jester House Cafe. This country café is set in a whimsical garden that offers something special for all ages. Keen on cycling? Just a 10-minute ferry ride from Mapua Wharf, Rabbit Island offers a treat for cyclists with a network of trails just waiting to be explored.
4. Motueka
Known as a gateway to the Abel Tasman National Park, the town of Motueka is definitely worth adding to your South Island road trip planner. One of the cool features of this town is the Gecko Theatre. A great rainy-day destination, this funky boutique theatre is decked out in retro furniture for a truly Kiwi movie-watching experience. Other fun Motueka must-dos include swimming at the saltwater baths, exploring the Ngarua Caves, and perusing the Motueka Sunday Markets.
5. Karamea
Tucked away at the top of the South Island’s West Coast, Karamea is an off-the-beaten-track oasis. This tiny township – with a population of just 650 – sits on the border of the Kahurangi National Park. If you’re keen on a bit of adventure, you’ll find it in abundance here. Get your fix of mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, rafting, and caving. One of the South Island must-do activities here is a visit to the Oparara Arch. This stunning limestone arch is said to be the biggest in Australasia. You can reach the arch by walking along the well-formed forest track – about 2 km return.
6. Hurunui Region
The coast road to Kaikoura makes for a popular South Island road trip, but why not take the route less travelled? The Inland Kaikoura Route will take you through the lovely but little-known Hurunui region. This beautiful district of the Canterbury region stretches south to within 50 km of Christchurch. It is home to the better-known townships of Amberley, Culverden, Cheviot and, of course, the resort town of Hanmer Springs. Stay and play at the local vineyards or, for some great South Island skiing, explore the ski field at Mt Lyford.
As a shorter round trip, take in the relaxed holiday vibe of Kaikoura. If you venture beyond Hanmer Springs, head for the hills. Make sure you leave time to drop into lovely St Arnaud, where there is a little-known maritime museum which glorifies the annual NZ Classic and Antique Boat Show held there each year around March.
7. Hokitika Gorge Walk
The South Island offers one incredible landscape after another. And the Hokitika Gorge Walk is no exception. This 2.1 km loop walk on the West Coast takes less than an hour – although it may take much longer as you stop to take in the views and get photos along the way! The track takes you through bush and over boardwalks and swing bridges. Just a few minutes into the walk you’ll emerge onto a viewing platform where you can look down onto the stunning blue-green waters of the gorge.
8. Orana Wildlife Park
Beware, there are lions, Tasmanian devils, and even rhinos wandering in certain parts of the South Island! Fortunately, they’re well-contained and cared for at the Orana Wildlife Park in Christchurch. This 80-hectare park is home to over 1000 animals and 90 species, including New Zealand’s only gorillas. Time your visit for 12 pm or 3 pm to hand-feed the giraffes.
9. Riccarton House and Bush
Riccarton House and Bush is set on a 12-hectare reserve, just 3.5 km from Christchurch’s city centre. This relaxing haven is a unique New Zealand heritage site and a wonderful spot to escape the city hustle and bustle. Wander the gardens, explore the historic buildings, and stroll through the native bush. A perfect way to enjoy this fabulous spot is to visit the Christchurch Farmers Market, held onsite every Saturday from 9 am – 1 pm.
10. Okains Bay
If you’re planning a road trip from Christchurch to Akaroa, you may like to add this lovely hidden gem to your travel itinerary. Comprising little more than a marae and a general store with a single petrol pump, Okains Bay is a timeless township with a huge heart. Okains Bay Māori and Colonial Museum houses one of the largest collections of Māori taonga in New Zealand. It’s an extraordinary way to explore Aotearoa’s history through the lens of artefacts from early Māori through to colonial settlement. Camping is available nearby at Okains Bay Campground which fronts the beautiful beach and estuary. On your return journey to Christchurch, turn off to Birdlings Flat and fossick for gemstones at the wild beach.
11. Methven
Keen to get some skiing in on your South Island road trip? Be sure to plan a visit to the chilled-out town of Methven. Known as a snow sports town, Methven is handy to some of the South Island’s great ski fields including Mt Hutt. There’s plenty more to do while you’re here too. For an unforgettable experience, take in the views of the region from above with a hot air ballooning ride. To top off your visit, watch the sun set as you soak away the day at the Ōpuke Thermal Pools.
12. Purakaunui Beach
Keen surfer? Located in The Catlins, Purakaunui Beach is one of the best beaches for experienced surfers. This well-known beach break has top-quality, powerful, consistent and very fun surf. If you prefer to keep your feet on solid ground, try one of the great nearby walks.
13. Otago Central Rail Trail
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just keen on seeing the sights, the Central Otago Rail Trail is one of the must-do South Island activities. In fact, it’s described by many as one of the best things to do in the South Island. The 150 km trail runs through open spaces and spectacular landscapes between Clyde and Middlemarch. You can tackle the whole thing, or choose a section to suit.
14. Saint Bathans
Saint Bathans is a tiny little town in the Otago region. Once a goldmining mecca, the town is home to the stunning man-made Blue Lake. Created as miners sluiced their way through the quartz rock of Kildare Hill, the lake makes for incredible photos. Take the 2 km loop track around the lake where you’ll also walk past old remnants from the goldmining era. Afterwards, head to Vulcan Hotel for a cold brew and a warm meal.
15. Lindis Pass
A South Island road trip wouldn’t be complete without a drive through the breathtaking Lindis Pass. This beautiful part of South Canterbury offers some seriously spectacular scenery. The pass is the main highway between Omarama and Wānaka and is a fantastic spot for photos. Adjacent to the highway is the Lindis Conservation Area. While there are no formally marked tracks in the Lindis Conservation Area, you are permitted to explore the undulating terrain. It's also possible to walk or cycle across private land to the Lindis River via Smiths Creek.
16. Kaka Point
Kaka Point is a stunning little seaside village and home to one of the best surf beaches in the South Island. It’s also a prime spot for seeing some of New Zealand’s wildlife including fur seals, yellow-eyed penguins, and sea lions. You’ll also find a lovely bush walk at Kaka Point. This easy walk is a 1.6 km loop and can be started at either Rata or Totara Street. For a relaxing seafood dinner, head to The Point.
17. Nugget Point Lighthouse
Just 15 minutes drive from Kaka Point is the iconic Nugget Point lighthouse. One of New Zealand's oldest lighthouses, it is easy to reach via a 20-minute return walk. The lighthouse overlooks 'the Nuggets', a set of rocks out at sea. Bring along your binoculars to see colonies of fur seals, penguins, and sea birds.
18. Lake Marian
One of the South Island’s beautiful alpine lakes, Lake Marian can be reached by a 3.1 km walking track (about 1.5 hours). Be sure to check out the stunning Marian Falls along the way. From the car park, cross the swing bridge and walk for about 10 minutes to reach the falls.
19. Doubtful Sound
One of the gems of the South Island’s Fiordland region, Doubtful Sound is sometimes called the ‘Sound of Silence’. It is the deepest of the South Island’s fiords and home to some stunning waterfalls. The best way to see this beautiful area is with a guided tour departing from Manapouri. You may even like to make the most of your time here with an overnight cruise.
20. Curio Bay
Sitting on the rugged and wild coastline at the bottom of the South Island, Curio Bay is a natural wonderland. One of the gems of this area is the Petrified Forest which dates back around 170 million years. The forest is best viewed at low tide from the viewing platform. Curio Bay is also a great spot for wildlife watching. In summer, Hector’s dolphins can be seen frolicking in the surf. You may also see protected yellow-eyed penguins in the late afternoon as they come ashore after a day at sea.
Where to stay in the South Island
There are loads of fabulous campgrounds and holiday parks to enjoy as you travel the South Island. Check out some of our recommendations to park up your campervan in Christchurch and Queenstown.
Ready to explore these hidden gems of the South Island?
There you have 20 must-see hidden gems of the South Island in New Zealand. But there are loads more waiting to be discovered. And there’s no better time to experience them than right now. Take the first step on your epic South Island road trip and book your campervan hire online with Britz.
Don’t miss out on our latest deals on campervans to help you make the most of your New Zealand motorhoming holiday.
All images by Rachel Stewart.