The Best Places in the South Island to Visit in Autumn

Where is the South Island?

So, where exactly is the South Island? Nestled in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, this slice of New Zealand is a playground for adventurers and nature lovers. Think of it as a mixtape of all the best bits of nature – towering mountains, serene beaches, and everything in between. 

Autumn here is like stepping into a real-life postcard, with landscapes transforming into a riot of golds, reds, and oranges. It’s not just about the scenery; the South Island is famous for its laid-back vibe and friendly locals, making it a top spot for travellers looking to soak up some Kiwi culture.

The best way to explore the South Island?

And the best way to take it all in? Hands down, it’s by campervan hire. Imagine waking up to a new view every morning, your home on wheels parked by a crystal-clear lake or nestled in a cozy forest nook. A campervan allows you to create your own South Island road trip itinerary – no rushing to catch a tour or check in and out of hotels. 

For some more epic tips for campervan travel through the South Island, check out our top New Zealand South Island guides: 

• New Zealand campervan tips

• The best freedom camping spots on the South Island

• Best day hikes in the South Island

• Best places to wake up in New Zealand 

• Hidden gems in New Zealand's South Island 

Whether you’re looking for adventure or just a peaceful corner to enjoy the autumn months in NZ, travelling by campervan is the way to go. And hey, who doesn't love the idea of carrying their cozy nook wherever they go?

 

The best places in the South Island to visit in autumn

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisper, there's no better time to hit the road in your campervan and explore the beauty of autumn on the South Island of New Zealand. From the towering peaks to tranquil lakes, each stop is a postcard waiting to be explored. Here are our top picks for what to do in the South Island of New Zealand that truly come alive in autumn. 

 

1. Mount Cook / Aoraki

Standing tall and proud, Mount Cook, or Aoraki as known in Māori, is not just New Zealand's highest peak but a real-life wonderland in the autumn months in NZ – picture snow-capped mountains meeting the warm, golden hues of fall foliage. 

The area is a paradise for hikers, with trails winding through the scenic valleys, and the autumn months in NZ are the perfect season for hiking in Mount Cook. The lower temperatures make for comfortable trekking conditions. Trails like the Hooker Valley Track or the Tasman Glacier Walk offer breathtaking views of the alpine scenery, adorned with golden and crimson foliage.

Getting here in your campervan is a journey in itself, with a scenic three-hour drive from Queenstown and a slightly further four-hour drive from Christchurch. With such a long drive, it is advisable to spend the night. If you do, be sure to park up and do a little stargazing! Mount Cook is also famed for its international dark sky reserve. With your cosy campervan close to warm up when needed, this is the perfect way to end the day of your South Island road trip.

Where to stay in Mount Cook

When it comes to parking your campervan and resting your head under the stars, Glentanner Park is your go-to spot. Nestled in the shadows of Mount Cook, this park offers not just stunning views but a range of facilities to make your campervan stay comfortable. With its convenient location, you're just a stone's throw away from all the hiking, stargazing, and exploring Mount Cook has to offer. Plus, their well-equipped kitchen, BBQ areas, on-site restaurant and laundry facilities mean you can enjoy the best of NZ in autumn without giving up the creature comforts of home.

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

2. Lake Dunstan

Lake Dunstan, nestled in the heart of the Otago region, is a hidden gem that truly comes into its own during autumn. This serene body of water, surrounded by vineyards and orchards, transforms into a canvas of reds, golds, and oranges as fall settles in. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely drive around the lake in your campervan, with the autumn sun casting a magical glow on the landscape. 

Imagine picnicking by the lakeside with fresh, locally picked fruit from nearby orchards – the quintessential Otago experience. Best of all, getting here is a breeze, especially if you’re rolling in from Queenstown, which is just a 50-minute drive in your campervan.

Where to stay in Lake Dunstan

When exploring the South Island in a campervan, Clyde Holiday Park is an ideal base near Lake Dunstan. Located in the historic town of Clyde, this park offers easy access to the lake and the surrounding vineyards. With facilities like conveniently powered sites for your campervan and kitchen and laundry amenities, Clyde Holiday Park makes sure you enjoy the great outdoors without compromising comfort. Plus, it's a stone's throw away from local attractions, ensuring you’re right in the heart of the action while enjoying the peace and tranquillity of the park.

 

3. Lake Pukaki

Next on our list of things to do in New Zealand’s South Island in autumn is Lake Pukaki. Known for its distinct, vibrant turquoise waters, this lake transforms into an even more magical place when autumn arrives. The contrasting backdrop of snow-capped mountains against golden tussock fields creates a surreal landscape – it is no wonder it has become such a popular spot for photographers over the years! 

The lake's unique turquoise colour comes from the glacial flour, which is finely ground rock particles from the surrounding glaciers, including the massive Tasman Glacier. The autumn months in NZ are the perfect time to visit, as the cooler, cloud-banded days provide an ever-changing and captivating scene for your eyes and camera.

For those driving in a campervan, the journey from Christchurch is a scenic route filled with breathtaking views. Upon arriving, you can conveniently park your campervan at the Lake Pukaki car park, which is ideally located for easy access to the lake.

Where to stay in Lake Pukaki

For a cozy and convenient stay near Lake Pukaki, Glentanner Park is your spot. Located on the shores of Lake Pukaki, the location is unbeatable. Plus, Glentanner offers a range of great facilities for campervan travellers on a South Island campervan hire road trip. You'll find powered sites to park your campervan, along with essential amenities like kitchens and laundry services. The park’s location makes it a perfect base for exploring not just Lake Pukaki but also nearby attractions like Mount Cook. 

 

4. Lindis Pass

Lindis Pass is another unmissable New Zealand South Island must-do. As you drive your campervan through this pass in the autumn months in NZ, prepare to be awestruck by the golden hills and vibrant foliage. This stretch acts as a connector between Christchurch and Queenstown – but there is plenty more to explore here.

A must-do here on a New Zealand South Island itinerary is to stop and go for a wander to explore the panoramic views over the tussock-covered landscape. While there are no formal tracks, you are free to roam through the pass – just be aware that this is an exposed alpine area, so dress accordingly! The occasional autumn snowfall adds a stunning contrast, making for a perfect spot to pause, sip a cup of tea, and bask in nature's grandeur. If you prefer to park up and enjoy the views, parking is available at the Lindis Pass Summit Scenic Lookout.  

Where to Stay in Lindis Pass

For those exploring Lindis Pass in a campervan, the Lindis Pass Historic Hotel Campsite offers a unique stay. Situated in a historically significant area, this campsite offers basic facilities, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of Lindis Pass authentically. The location offers easy access to various trails and viewpoints, perfect for those wanting to explore the area's natural beauty.

 

5. Lake Wakatipu

Lake Wakatipu, in the heart of the Queenstown region, is a sight to behold, especially in autumn. This glacier-formed lake, known for its unique tidal patterns, is bordered by mountains that light up with autumn colours.

When it comes to New Zealand South Island must-dos, a cruise on Lake Wakatipu is a must, offering a peaceful way to enjoy the surrounding beauty. For those who prefer adventuring on land, the lakeside walking trails are easily one of the best South Island attractions, especially with the golden-leaved trees. Make sure to visit the Queenstown Gardens at sunset; the views of the sun dipping behind the lake, painting the sky in myriad colours, are unforgettable.  

Where to Stay in Lake Wakatipu

When it comes to staying near Lake Wakatipu in autumn, Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park is a fantastic choice. Located just a short walk from the heart of Queenstown, this park offers not just convenience but stunning views. With facilities including powered sites, kitchen amenities, and laundry services, it provides all the comforts needed for a relaxing stay. Plus, its proximity to Lake Wakatipu and the town's vibrant atmosphere make it an ideal base to experience the beauty of autumn in Queenstown. 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

6. Milford Sound

Milford Sound, often hailed as the "eighth wonder of the world," is a symphony of nature's best elements, particularly mesmerising in the autumn months in NZ. This fiord, renowned for its majestic cliffs and misty landscapes, transforms into an ethereal world during fall. Imagine cruising through the sound, enveloped by the dramatic play of waterfalls cascading down from heights of over 1000 meters. In autumn, especially during rainfall, Milford Sound awakens with swelling waterfalls, and the surrounding forest tannins create a mysterious inky black layer atop the waters. It's safe to say that this is a campervan hire South Island must-see during the autumn months in NZ.

Where to Stay near Milford Sound

For those travelling in a campervan, the Cascade Creek Campsite is an excellent choice for where to stay near Milford Sound. Located within the Fiordland National Park, this campsite is an ideal base to explore Milford Sound. It offers basic facilities such as non-flush toilets and fire pits, ensuring a close-to-nature experience while being conveniently situated for exploring the sound and its surrounding natural beauty.

 

7. Nugget Point

Nugget Point, perched on the Catlins Coast, offers a remarkable blend of coastal splendour and autumnal charm. The point is renowned for its panoramic views of the rugged coastline and opportunities to spot seals and sea lions. It is also home to the country’s oldest lighthouse, perched atop the cliff. In autumn, the coastline is draped in a golden hue, contrasting beautifully with the marine blue coast.  

From Queenstown, Nugget Point is a scenic three-and-a-half-hour drive south, offering plenty of beautiful landscapes to admire along the way. For campervan parking, the Nugget Point Lighthouse car park is a convenient and picturesque spot to start your coastal adventure.

Where to stay near Nugget Point

Near Nugget Point, the Kaka Point Camping Ground is an ideal spot for campervan travellers. Situated in a quaint seaside village, this camping ground offers facilities like powered sites, a kitchen, and laundry. Its prime location near Nugget Point Lighthouse and close to the beach makes it an attractive base to explore the coastal beauty and the golden autumn landscapes.

 

Ready to see the South Island in autumn?

As we've journeyed through what to do in the South Island of New Zealand in autumn, it's clear that this season transforms the already beautiful landscape into something truly magical. From the majestic heights of Mount Cook to the tranquil shores of Lake Pukaki and the awe-inspiring vistas of Milford Sound, each location offers a unique experience when painted in the vibrant oranges and reds of this otherworldly season. Whether you're driving through the golden hills of Lindis Pass, soaking in the serene beauty of Lake Dunstan, or witnessing the sunset hues at Lake Wakatipu, the autumn months in NZ’s South Island are an unmissable spectacle.

And what better way to explore these wonders than with the freedom and comfort of a campervan? With a campervan, you're not just visiting the tourist hot spots. Instead, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in each destination like a local. Wake up to a new view each day, be it the towering mountains or tranquil lakes. A campervan hire is a hands-down, unforgettable way to experience these incredible South Island attractions.

Ready to start planning your campervan hire in autumn on the South Island of New Zealand? You can easily book your Britz motorhome online today and pick it up from any Britz branch before you begin your journey. Your road trip through the South Island's autumn wonderland awaits!