How long does it take to drive around South Island New Zealand?
The South Island is marginally larger at 840km, taking up to 14 hours in perfect driving conditions, from the ferry port of Picton to the appropriately dubbed Bluff, balancing on the bottom edge.
How many days do you need to see South Island New Zealand?
The short answer is 14 days as a minimum time frame for visiting both the North Island and South Island of New Zealand.
Is it easy to self drive in New Zealand?
Absolutely! It truly was much simpler than we thought. There is only one route which connects one town to another, so navigating and driving in New Zealand is not difficult. There also aren’t that many cars on the road, so you can drive at your own comfortable speed.
What should I not miss on the South Island?
Add some of these must-do’s to your South Island itinerary.
- Marvel at Mount Cook, New Zealand’s highest mountain.
- Visit New Zealand’s only castle.
- Go native bird spotting on Rakiura/Stewart Island.
- Discover the majestic Milford and Doubtful Sounds.
- Explore the Marlborough Sounds.
- Go on a street art trail in Christchurch.
Is it better to visit the North or South Island of New Zealand?
Generally speaking, if you want to engage with city culture or explore Maori history, the North Island is for you. If you want to deep-dive into nature, the South Island has plenty of lakes, mountains, fjords, and glaciers to discover.
How long is 90 Mile Beach NZ?
Ninety-Mile Beach is the fabled strip of sand that stretches from Ahipara to Scott Point, five kilometres south of Cape Maria van Diemen. Truth be told, it is actually 88 kilometres long.
How long does it take to drive from the top of New Zealand to the bottom?
about 5 days
It takes about 5 days to drive from the top of New Zealand to the bottom. Starting at the most northern point in Cape Reinga the journey is 2036 kilometres or 1265 miles and includes one ferry ride reach the most southern point, Slope Point’s End, on the South Island.
What’s the best time to visit New Zealand?
The best time to visit New Zealand is during the summer months of December to March. Expect long, bright, sunny days and temperatures between 61°F and 75°F. It’s an ideal time to visit the lovely beaches or enjoy the many outdoor activities available, such as hiking and mountain biking.
How long does it take to drive around New Zealand?
How long does it take to drive the length of New Zealand? In theory you could drive the North Island from tip to toe in around 14 hours and the South Island in around 12 non-stop.
Is New Zealand North or South Island better?
Who owns Stewart Island?
the New Zealand government
Almost all the island is owned by the New Zealand government and over 80 per cent of the island is set aside as the Rakiura National Park, New Zealand’s newest national park.
What is the nicest city in New Zealand?
- Queenstown. Queenstown was undoubtedly the highlight of my trip.
- Auckland. Auckland is New Zealand’s biggest city, with over 1.5 million people residing there.
- Wellington. Wellington is New Zealand’s capital, so it is naturally one of the best cities to live in New Zealand.
- Tauranga.
- Napier.
What is a self drive New Zealand itinerary?
This self-drive New Zealand itinerary focuses on easy going guided walks for hikers of modest fitness who love being in the bush and the natural environment. No hiking experience is necessary.
Where to stay in New Zealand for a self drive South Island?
Offering free parking, the Rainforest Motel is within walking distance to the town and restaurants and only a 10 minute drive to Lake Matheson. Witness the West Coast spectacular coastline and beaches as you make your way north on your New Zealand Self Drive South Island tour.
How do I get to the South Island by self drive?
If you’ve already been travelling around the North Island, you’ll most likely catch the ferry from Wellington, on the North Island, to Picton, on the South Island. You can begin your South Island Self Drive Itinerary from there, beginning with a beautiful scenic drive through Blenheim. Alternatively, fly into Christchurch Airport.
How many days to spend in New Zealand’s South Island?
This superb 7 day itinerary showcases the amazing contrasts to be found at the top of New Zealand’s South Island. Embrace your wild side on this unforgettable journey to the South Island’s isolated hidden gems. Be awed by the Marlborough Sound’s secluded bays, the rugged Catlins Coast, and the majestic fiords of Milford Sound.