Eight to nine days is a great length for a New Zealand trip, with stops in Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown, and Franz Josef / Waiau. If you don’t mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as seven days. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Te Anau or Wanaka. Keep reading for more inspiring Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown, and Franz Josef / Waiau itineraries.
## Discover the Wonders of Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown & Franz Josef / Waiau: Planning Your Perfect New Zealand Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island, encompassing the vibrant city of Christchurch, the majestic heights of Aoraki / Mount Cook, the adventure capital of Queenstown, and the breathtaking glacial vistas of Franz Josef / Waiau. Planning the ideal itinerary for this incredible region requires careful consideration of travel time and desired activities. Let’s explore the optimal duration for your South Island exploration.
**How Many Days Do You Need?**
Most travelers find that an immersive experience in Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown, and Franz Josef / Waiau requires approximately 8 to 9 days. This timeframe allows for sufficient exploration of each location, including travel between destinations and participation in various activities. This carefully paced itinerary provides a fulfilling introduction to the natural wonders and cultural experiences of the South Island.
While visiting Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown, and Franz Josef / Waiau in just 7 days is technically feasible, it will inevitably feel rushed. You’ll likely spend a significant portion of your time in transit, leaving less opportunity to fully appreciate the unique charm and attractions of each location. This shorter timeframe is best suited for travelers with limited time who are willing to prioritize certain experiences over others.
For those fortunate enough to have 10 or more days to dedicate to their South Island adventure, the possibilities expand considerably. With a more extended itinerary, most travelers opt to incorporate additional stops and explore other captivating destinations in the region. Popular extensions include venturing south to the serene landscapes of Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park, or heading to the picturesque shores of Wānaka, renowned for its stunning lake views and outdoor recreational opportunities. A longer trip allows for a more relaxed pace and deeper immersion into the beauty of New Zealand.
**Recommended Itineraries for Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown, and Franz Josef / Waiau**
To help you visualize your ideal South Island adventure, we’ve compiled a selection of recommended itineraries tailored to different durations.
**Recommended Itinerary for 8 Days**
This 8-day itinerary offers a balanced exploration of the key highlights of the South Island, combining scenic drives with opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
**(Image: You’ll drive alongside striking turquoise Lake Tekapo on the South Island)**
**Day 1:** Arrive in Christchurch and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Discover its resilience and innovative spirit while exploring its gardens, museums, and art galleries. Enjoy a leisurely evening and prepare for the adventures ahead. Overnight in Christchurch.
**Day 2:** Embark on a scenic drive to Aoraki / Mount Cook, the highest peak in New Zealand. Marvel at the breathtaking alpine scenery, hike along well-maintained trails, and learn about the region’s unique geology and glacial history. Overnight in Aoraki / Mount Cook.
**Day 3:** Continue your journey to Queenstown via the charming towns of Twizel & Ōmarama. Admire the rolling hills of the Mackenzie Country and witness the captivating beauty of the Lindis Pass. Arrive in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, and settle in for an exciting stay. Overnight in Queenstown (NZ).
**Day 4:** Dedicate a full day to exploring Queenstown and indulging in its myriad of optional activities. Choose from bungee jumping, white-water rafting, jet boating, scenic gondola rides, and much more. Alternatively, explore the town’s vibrant shops, restaurants, and cafes. Overnight in Queenstown (NZ).
**Day 5:** Embark on a picturesque drive to Franz Josef Glacier, a remarkable natural wonder on the West Coast. Witness the dramatic contrast between the lush rainforest and the towering glacier. Consider a guided glacier walk or a scenic helicopter flight for an unforgettable experience. Overnight in Franz Josef Glacier.
**Day 6:** Experience a unique and unforgettable journey back to Christchurch aboard the TranzAlpine Scenic Train. This renowned train journey traverses the Southern Alps, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, deep gorges, and lush forests. Overnight in Christchurch.
**Day 7:** Enjoy a free day in Christchurch to further explore the city at your own pace. In the evening, savor a delightful dinner on board the Christchurch Tram, a unique dining experience that combines delicious cuisine with a scenic tour of the city. Overnight in Christchurch.
**Day 8:** Depart from Christchurch, filled with cherished memories of your South Island adventure.
Explore the beauty of New Zealand’s South Island at your own pace with this self-drive tour. You’ll start in Christchurch and drive through incredible villages to Queenstown. Next, you’ll explore breathtaking national parks before taking one of the world’s greatest train journeys back to Christchurch. Get your adrenaline rush in along the way by bungee jumping, heli-skiing, and mountain biking!
**Recommended Itinerary for 9 Days**
This 9-day itinerary builds upon the previous one, adding an extra day for exploring the remote Doubtful Sound, a pristine wilderness area in Fiordland National Park.
**(Image: Cruise Doubtful Sound)**
**Day 1:** Arrive in Christchurch and begin your South Island adventure with a memorable dinner on board the Christchurch Tram. Enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the sights of the city. Overnight in Christchurch.
**Day 2:** Drive to Aoraki / Mount Cook and immerse yourself in the beauty of the alpine landscape. In the evening, participate in a stargazing workshop to learn about the constellations and celestial wonders visible in the clear night sky. Overnight in Aoraki / Mount Cook Village.
**Day 3:** Continue your journey to Queenstown and enjoy a scenic cruise on the TSS Earnslaw Steamship, a vintage coal-fired steamer. Indulge in a delicious barbecue dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm, located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu. Overnight in Queenstown (NZ).
**Day 4:** Dedicate a full day to exploring Queenstown at your leisure. Choose from a wide range of activities, including hiking, biking, wine tasting, and scenic flights. Alternatively, relax and enjoy the town’s vibrant atmosphere. Overnight in Queenstown (NZ).
**Day 5:** Embark on a wilderness cruise to the remote Doubtful Sound, a hidden gem in Fiordland National Park. Explore the pristine waterways, admire the towering waterfalls, and spot native wildlife, such as dolphins, seals, and penguins. Overnight in Queenstown (NZ).
**Day 6:** Drive to the West Coast and unwind at the Glacier Hot Pools in Franz Josef Glacier. Relax and rejuvenate in the naturally heated mineral waters, surrounded by lush rainforest scenery. Overnight in Franz Josef Glacier.
**Day 7:** Experience the thrill of a heli-hike to the Franz Josef Glacier. Soar above the stunning landscape in a helicopter and land on the glacier for a guided hike, exploring the ice formations and learning about the glacier’s history. Overnight in Franz Josef Glacier.
**Day 8:** Return to Christchurch via the TranzAlpine Scenic Train, enjoying the breathtaking views of the Southern Alps. Overnight in Christchurch.
**Day 9:** Depart from Christchurch, taking with you unforgettable memories of your South Island adventure.
Encounter snowy peaks and lush rainforests in this nine-day road trip around New Zealand’s South Island. Start by sampling a four-course meal on a colonial-style tram ride around Christchurch. Pick up your rental car, and get ready for breathtaking scenery over the next week as you drive through “The Lord of the Rings” country, with stop-offs that include glacial hot pools, boat rides, gourmet barbecues, and a scenic train ride.
**Extended Itineraries**
For those with more time to explore, consider extending your itinerary to include additional destinations such as Te Anau and Wānaka.
**10-Day Itinerary Including Te Anau**
This 10-day itinerary incorporates a visit to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park, and allows for a deeper exploration of the region’s natural wonders.
**(Image: Aoraki/Mount Cook)**
**Day 1:** Arrive in Christchurch and embark on a hop-on, hop-off city tour to get acquainted with the city’s landmarks and attractions. Overnight in Christchurch.
**Day 2:** Explore Christchurch further at your own pace. Consider visiting the Botanic Gardens, the Canterbury Museum, or the International Antarctic Centre. Overnight in Christchurch.
**Day 3:** Journey to Mount Cook National Park and enjoy guided glacier and valley tours, discovering the Tasman Glacier and the surrounding peaks. Learn about the region’s geological history and witness the power of nature. Overnight in Aoraki / Mount Cook.
**Day 4:** Drive to Te Anau, a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Te Anau. Explore the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, a magical underground world illuminated by bioluminescent glowworms. Overnight in Te Anau.
**Day 5:** Embark on a Milford Sound / Piopiotahi nature cruise, exploring the iconic fiord and admiring its stunning waterfalls, towering cliffs, and lush rainforest. Keep an eye out for native wildlife, such as dolphins, seals, and penguins. Overnight in Te Anau.
**Day 6:** Drive to Queenstown and enjoy a relaxing Walter Peak Dinner Cruise on Lake Wakatipu. Savor a delicious meal while enjoying the stunning scenery. Overnight in Queenstown (NZ).
**Day 7:** Explore Queenstown at your leisure, choosing from a wide range of activities or simply relaxing and enjoying the town’s vibrant atmosphere. Overnight in Queenstown (NZ).
**Day 8:** Visit Wānaka and take a tour of Franz Joseph Glacier, experiencing the beauty of this natural wonder. Consider a guided glacier walk or a scenic helicopter flight. Overnight in Franz Josef Glacier.
**Day 9:** Return to Christchurch via the TranzAlpine Scenic Train, enjoying the breathtaking views of the Southern Alps. Overnight in Christchurch.
**Day 10:** Depart from Christchurch, filled with cherished memories of your South Island adventure.
This 10-day road trip through New Zealand takes you through fjords, glaciers, and mountains abound. Begin in Christchurch on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour, then take the beautiful drive to Mount Cook National Park to embark on two excursions to discover Tasman Glacier and the surrounding peaks. Next is another eventful drive—with stops along the way—to Te Anau, including a visit to a glowworm cave and a day cruise through stunning Milford Sound / Piopiotahi. Explore Queenstown and board a dinner cruise, visit Wānaka and Franz Joseph Glacier, and drop off your car before riding the exhilarating TranzAlpine Scenic Train back to Christchurch.
**How to Travel Between Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown & Franz Josef / Waiau**
Navigating the South Island between Christchurch, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Queenstown, and Franz Josef / Waiau is relatively straightforward, with various transportation options available.
**How to Get to Franz Josef / Glacier**
Located approximately halfway down the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, the Franz Josef Glacier is situated in the small village of Franz Josef / Waiau. Due to the remoteness of this region, the overland journey can be lengthy, but it offers numerous opportunities to admire beautiful points of interest along the way, regardless of your direction of travel.
**How to Get from Christchurch to Queenstown**
Christchurch is located roughly halfway down the eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, while Queenstown is situated in the southwest. Separated by approximately 300 miles (480 km) and a range of mountains, Christchurch and Queenstown are easily accessible by air or road. Flying provides a quick and convenient option, while driving allows for a more scenic and flexible journey.
**How to Get from Christchurch to Aoraki / Mount Cook**
Aoraki / Mount Cook is located in the central South Island, relatively close to the West Coast but separated by mountains. The journey from Christchurch by road covers approximately 200 miles (330 km) and offers stunning views of the Mackenzie Country and the Southern Alps.
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