Southern Scenic Route

Your Southern Scenic Route adventure kicks off in Christchurch, heading south towards Timaru. Along the way, take a quick detour to Rakaia Gorge, where you can stretch your legs on the short walking tracks and admire the striking views of the river winding through dramatic rock formations.  

Back on the road, be sure to stop in Geraldine, a charming little town known for its artisan shops, boutique galleries, and mouthwatering cheese tastings at spots like the Geraldine Cheese Company. It’s also a great place to grab a coffee and stock up on local treats for the road ahead. 

After arriving in Timaru, settle in for the night at the Timaru TOP 10 Holiday Park, which offers comfortable facilities and a relaxing spot to recharge before tomorrow’s drive.

Today’s drive takes you down the coast towards Dunedin, with some unmissable stops along the way. First up, swing by the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony, to meet the world’s smallest penguins. Whether you catch them coming in from the sea or see them in their burrows, it’s a heartwarming experience you won’t forget.  

A bit further down the road, make time for the famous Moeraki Boulders, These giant, round rocks scattered along the beach look like something out of a sci-fi movie – perfect for snapping a few photos and stretching your legs before getting back on the road. 

Once you reach Dunedin, settle in for the night at Dunedin Holiday Park. It’s a cosy spot with everything you need and an easy walk to the beach. Whether you’re up for a seaside stroll or just want to relax for the evening, this is the perfect base for exploring the city. 

Today’s journey takes you from Dunedin into the wild, untamed beauty of The Catlins, with some fantastic stops to enjoy. Start your morning with a visit to Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s only castle. Take your time wandering through its beautifully restored rooms and the surrounding gardens, all while soaking in panoramic views of the Otago Peninsula. 

As you head south, don’t miss a stop at Nugget Point. The lighthouse perched on the edge of the cliff is stunning, but the real stars here are the resident seals, penguins, and seabirds that call this rugged coastline home. It’s a short walk from the car park, and the views are worth every step. Before reaching your destination, take a detour to Purakaunui Falls. This iconic three-tiered waterfall is tucked away in lush native bush, and it’s an easy stroll to reach the perfect photo spot. 

For the night, park up at Whistling Frog Resort. With a mix of cosy facilities and its prime location in the heart of The Catlins, it’s a great spot to relax after a day of exploring. Plus, there’s a restaurant on-site if you’re in the mood for a hearty meal before settling in for the night. 

Leaving The Catlins behind, today’s drive is packed with coastal stops as you make your way to Invercargill. Start your day at Curio Bay, home to the fascinating Fossil Forest, a 180-million-year-old relic from the Jurassic period. Take a wander along the beach to spot the petrified tree stumps and logs, and if you’re lucky, you might even see a few Hector’s dolphins or yellow-eyed penguins in the bay. 

Next, head to Slope Point, the southernmost point of the South Island. A short walk through windswept farmland brings you to a sign marking this remote spot, where the rugged coastline stretches as far as the eye can see. Before arriving in Invercargill, stop by Waipapa Point Lighthouse. This historic lighthouse offers scenic ocean views, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot sea lions lounging on the beach nearby. 

For the night, check into Invercargill Holiday Park. It’s a peaceful spot with spacious parking, handy facilities, and a great location to prepare for tomorrow’s adventures.  

Next, stop in Riverton, known as the “Riviera of the South.” This charming seaside town has a laid-back vibe, sandy beaches, and a few great spots for a coffee or lunch break. Before reaching Te Anau, take a breather at Lake Manapouri. Known for its tranquil beauty, this lake offers scenic picnic spots and short walking tracks if you feel like stretching your legs. 

When you arrive in Te Anau, settle in at Te Anau TOP 10 Holiday Park. With its lakeside location and everything you need for a comfortable night’s stay, it’s a fantastic base to unwind and prepare for exploring Fiordland the next day. 

Today is all about exploring the breathtaking Fiordland National Park with a day trip to Milford Sound, often called the “eighth wonder of the world.” Start early and make your way along the stunning Milford Road, with plenty of opportunities to stop and soak up the scenery.  

One must-see is Eglinton Valley, where vast plains are framed by dramatic, towering peaks – it’s the perfect spot for a quick photo. A little further along, take a short stroll to the Mirror Lakes, where calm waters beautifully reflect the surrounding mountains. 

The highlight of the day is a Milford Sound Cruise with RealNZ. Glide past cascading waterfalls, sheer cliffs, and lush rainforest while keeping an eye out for playful seals, penguins, and dolphins. It’s an unforgettable way to experience the grandeur of this iconic fiord. 

After a full day of exploring, head back to Te Anau and settle in again at Te Anau TOP 10 Holiday Park.  

Today’s drive takes you to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Your first stop is Kingston, a quaint little town on the southern shores of Lake Wakatipu. It’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs, snap a few lakeside photos, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere before continuing on. 

Once you arrive in Queenstown, head straight for the Skyline Queenstown Gondola. The ride up is an experience in itself, offering panoramic views of the town, the lake, and the surrounding peaks. At the top, you can take in the incredible scenery, grab a coffee, or even try the luge if you’re feeling adventurous.  

If time allows, take a short detour to Arrowtown, a charming gold-rush village just 20 minutes from Queenstown. With its heritage buildings, boutique shops, and cosy cafés, it’s a lovely place to wander and step back in time. 

For your overnight stay, check into Queenstown TOP 10 Holiday Park. Nestled in a quiet location just outside the town centre, this spot has modern facilities and everything you need to relax after a busy day exploring.  

The drive from Queenstown to Wānaka is short but packed with scenic opportunities. While Britz campervans aren’t permitted on the Crown Range Road, the detour through Cromwell offers its own unique charm. This lovely town, set in the heart of Central Otago, is known for its vineyards, orchards, and historic precinct. Take a stroll through the beautifully restored gold-rush buildings, grab a coffee, or stock up on fresh fruit and goodies from one of the local stalls. 

Once you arrive in Wānaka, head straight to the lakefront to see That Wānaka Tree. This lone willow growing in the shallows of Lake Wānaka is one of the most photographed spots in New Zealand, and it’s easy to see why. Whether it’s reflecting in the still water or silhouetted against the mountains, it’s a must-see stop to end your day. 

For the night, check in at Wānaka Kiwi Holiday Park. Set in a peaceful spot with mountain views, this holiday park has everything you need to unwind, including spacious facilities and easy access to the town’s attractions.  

Today’s drive takes you north from Wānaka to Lake Tekapo. Start your journey by travelling through the Lindis Pass, one of New Zealand’s most beautiful alpine drives. The winding road takes you through golden tussock-covered hills with views that’ll have you reaching for your camera at every turn. 

Make a stop in Twizel, a quiet town that’s perfect for stretching your legs or grabbing a coffee. From here, it’s a short drive to Lake Pukaki. This glacial lake, with its striking turquoise waters, offers postcard-perfect views of Mount Cook (Aoraki) on a clear day. It’s one of those spots where you’ll want to sit for a moment and just take it all in. 

Once you arrive at Lake Tekapo, spend the afternoon visiting the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, a small stone chapel overlooking the lake that’s steeped in history and one of the most photographed sites in New Zealand. Afterwards, unwind at the Tekapo Springs, where you can relax in the hot pools while enjoying views of the lake and mountains. 

For the night, check in at the Lake Tekapo Motels & Holiday Park. Situated right on the lake’s edge, this park has all the facilities you’ll need and unbeatable views to enjoy as you wind down for the evening. 

Your final day on the Southern Scenic Route takes you from the stunning shores of Lake Tekapo back to Christchurch, with a few worthwhile stops to break up the drive. Start with a visit to the Fairlie Bakehouse in the nearby town of Fairlie. Famous for their award-winning pies (the pork belly pie is a must-try), it’s the perfect spot to grab a hearty breakfast or snack for the road. 

As you continue north, stop in Ashburton. This bustling rural town is a great place to stretch your legs, browse the local shops, or visit the Ashburton Art Gallery, which showcases fantastic regional artwork.  

Once you arrive in Christchurch, you have the option to drop off your campervan at the Britz Christchurch branch or extend your stay by parking up at North South Holiday Park for the night.  

Staying another night means you can fully explore Christchurch the next day. Visit the serene Christchurch Botanic Gardens, grab a bite at the bustling Riverside Market, or take a ride on the Christchurch Tram to discover the city’s rich history and quirky laneways. Whether you head home or stay a little longer, Christchurch is the perfect place to wrap up your South Island adventure. 

Ready to explore the Southern Scenic Route?

The Southern Scenic Route is an unforgettable way to experience the best of New Zealand’s South Island – from breathtaking coastal views and charming small towns to dramatic fiords and alpine lakes. With a Britz campervan, you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace, stop wherever inspiration strikes, and wake up to a new view every day. 

Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or an extended road trip, Britz has the perfect campervan to suit your adventure. So, what are you waiting for? Book your Britz campervan today and start planning your South Island escape. The open road is calling, and your next journey is just a booking away!