10 Day New Zealand Itinerary: Scenic Tour of New Zealand's South Island

Welcome to the South Island of New Zealand, a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and foodies! In this 10 day itinerary, we'll take you on a journey from Christchurch to Dunedin, Queenstown, Wanaka, and the West Coast, showcasing the best of what this stunning region has to offer. From scenic train rides to world-renowned attractions, we've got you covered.

Day 1: Christchurch

Welcome to Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island and your starting point for this epic adventure. After landing at Christchurch International Airport, make your way to your hotel and settle in for the night. If you're feeling up for it, take a stroll around the city center, which boasts an eclectic mix of historic and modern architecture, public art, and green spaces. For dinner, we recommend checking out Fiddlesticks Restaurant and Bar, which offers affordable modern European cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Hotel recommendation: The Muse Christchurch, located in the heart of the city.

Day 2-3: Dunedin

On day two, hop on the TranzAlpine train, which takes you on a scenic journey through the Southern Alps and the Canterbury Plains to Dunedin. Once you arrive, check into your hotel and explore this charming city, which is known for its Scottish heritage, wildlife, and art scene. Take a stroll around the historic precinct, which features iconic landmarks like the Dunedin Railway Station. Walk up to the Signal Hill lookout and enjoy the panoramic views of the city. Take a wildlife tour of the Otago Peninsula and see penguins, seals, and albatross.

Hotel recommendation: Scenic Hotel Dunedin City, located in the heart of the city and highly rated for its modern rooms and convenient location.

Day 4-6: Queenstown

On day four, take the Taieri Gorge Railway from Dunedin to Queenstown, which takes you on a breathtaking journey through mountain ranges, river gorges, and historic tunnels. Once you arrive in Queenstown, settle into your hotel and get ready for three days of adventure, relaxation, and culinary delights. Highlights of Queenstown include a day trip to Milford Sound, where you can cruise through the fjords and marvel at the waterfalls and wildlife, the Skyline Gondola, which offers panoramic views of the city and the lake, and the Queenstown Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. For dinner, try Rata Restaurant, which offers innovative New Zealand.

Hotel recommendation: Novotel Queenstown Lakeside, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and highly rated for its stunning views and comfortable rooms.

Day 7-8: Wanaka

On day seven, take a scenic drive from Queenstown to Wanaka, which takes you through the Crown Range, the highest main road in New Zealand, and offers stunning views of the Southern Alps and Lake Wanaka. Once you arrive in Wanaka, check into your hotel and get ready for two days of outdoor activities, relaxation, and culinary treats. Highlights of Wanaka include hiking the Rob Roy Glacier Track, visiting the Wanaka Lavender Farm, and strolling along the lakefront. For dinner, try the Kai Whakapai Cafe and Bar, which offers hearty pub fare and has great reviews for its affordable prices.

Hotel recommendation: Wanaka Hotel, located in the heart of the city and highly rated for its friendly staff and comfortable rooms.

Day 9: West Coast

On day nine, There are some scenic bus tours available from Wanaka to Haast Pass, which could be a great way to experience the stunning scenery of the South Island. The drive back to queenstown takes around 3 hours one way, so you could make a day trip out of it and return to Queenstown in the evening.

Day 10: Depart from Queenstown

In conclusion, a 10-day itinerary through the South Island of New Zealand is an incredible experience of the stunning natural beauty and unique culture of the country. With comfortable and affordable accommodation options and the opportunity to travel by train through some of the most scenic parts of the country, this itinerary provides a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or history buff, the South Island of New Zealand has it all, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.

The best time to visit the South Island of New Zealand for this trip is during the spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May) seasons when the temperatures are mild, and the scenery is beautiful with colorful flowers and trees turning golden and red. If you want to experience winter sports, then the best time to visit is during the winter season (June to August).