New Zealand South Island — 14 days
A 14-day route focusing on alpine lakes, hikes and wilderness. The suggested stops are an editorial starting point to adapt to your dates, available transport and travel pace.
This is not a guaranteed departure or a fixed-price package: build a personalized proposal before booking.
Build your personalized itineraryOne possible sequence of stops
- Days 1–3 · Christchurch — Use Christchurch as your base: explore the area without packing too many activities into one day. Plan the onward transfer before choosing accommodation.
- Days 4–5 · Lake Tekapo — Use Lake Tekapo as your base: explore the area without packing too many activities into one day. Plan the onward transfer before choosing accommodation.
- Days 6–7 · Aoraki/Mount Cook — Use Aoraki/Mount Cook as your base: explore the area without packing too many activities into one day. Plan the onward transfer before choosing accommodation.
- Days 8–9 · Queenstown — Use Queenstown as your base: explore the area without packing too many activities into one day. Plan the onward transfer before choosing accommodation.
- Days 10–11 · Milford Sound — Use Milford Sound as your base: explore the area without packing too many activities into one day. Plan the onward transfer before choosing accommodation.
- Days 12–14 · Wānaka — Use Wānaka as your base: explore the area without packing too many activities into one day. Plan the onward transfer before choosing accommodation.
Planning the transfers
Before fixing hotel nights, confirm that transfers, driving times or trains fit your dates. Some legs can take longer than they first appear.
Alpine driving routes and hikes depend on weather conditions.
When to travel and what it costs
Budget: costs depend on season, party size, rooms, transport and hotel category. This guide does not show unverified rates.
Review climate and crowds for your travel month, and allow slack on long transfer days. The planner can offer up to four themes where applicable, plus Value, Comfort and Fast packages.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a pre-booked package?
No. This is an editorial guide. Prices and availability are checked in the trip planner and reconfirmed with providers at checkout.
Can I change the stops?
Yes. SmartWanderTrip lets you tailor suggested itineraries to your preferences and available connections.
Can I book only selected hotels?
You can compare packages and choose which hotels to book; each booking has its own checkout conditions.