South Island Self-Drive Itineraries for First-Time Visitors

Exploring New Zealand’s South Island by car is one of the most unforgettable travel experiences in the world. For first-time visitors, a self-drive road trip offers complete freedom, comfort, and access to places tour buses simply can’t reach. With Euro Car Rental, you can enjoy a reliable, affordable vehicle and hit the road with total confidence.

Below are the best South Island self-drive itineraries designed specifically for first-time visitors.

Why Choose a Self-Drive Holiday with Euro Car Rental?

A self-drive trip gives you full control of your journey. When you rent a car from Euro Car Rental, you also get:

• Modern, well-maintained vehicles
• Competitive daily rental rates
• Flexible pickup and drop-off options
• 24/7 customer support

Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or with family, renting a car is the easiest and most comfortable way to explore the South Island.

5-Day South Island Self-Drive Itinerary (Perfect for First-Time Visitors)

Day 1: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

Pick up your vehicle from Euro Car Rental and begin your scenic drive from Christchurch to Lake Tekapo.

Highlights:

• Church of the Good Shepherd
• Tekapo Springs hot pools
• Stargazing at Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve

Driving time: Approx. 3 hours

Day 2: Lake Tekapo to Queenstown (via Mount Cook)

Enjoy a breathtaking drive past turquoise lakes and alpine landscapes.

Stops along the way:

• Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
• Hooker Valley Track
• Lake Pukaki scenic viewpoints

Driving time: Approx. 4 hours

Day 3: Explore Queenstown

Spend a full day discovering New Zealand’s adventure capital.

Top things to do:

• Skyline Gondola and Luge
• Shotover Jet boating
• Arrowtown historic village
• Lake Wakatipu waterfront walks

Day 4: Queenstown to Milford Sound

Take a world-famous road trip through Fiordland National Park.

Must-see stops:

• Mirror Lakes
• Homer Tunnel
• Milford Sound cruise

Driving time: Approx. 4 hours each way (or overnight stay in Te Anau)

Day 5: Queenstown to Wanaka

Finish your trip with a short scenic drive to Wanaka.

Highlights:

• The famous Wanaka Tree
• Lakefront walking trails
• Puzzling World

Driving time: Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes

7-Day South Island Self-Drive Itinerary

If you have more time, here’s a relaxed option.

Day 1: Arrival in Christchurch, pick up your rental car
 Day 2: Christchurch → Lake Tekapo
 Day 3: Lake Tekapo → Mount Cook
 Day 4: Mount Cook → Queenstown
 Day 5: Explore Queenstown
 Day 6: Queenstown → Milford Sound (via Te Anau)
 Day 7: Return to Christchurch via Lake Tekapo (inland road) or west coast staying a night in Franz Joseph 

Best Cars to Rent for a South Island Road Trip

At Euro Car Rental, we recommend:

• Compact cars for city driving and fuel efficiency
• SUVs for mountain roads and winter driving
• People movers for families and group travel

Our team can help you choose the right vehicle for your route and travel dates.

Tips for First-Time Self-Drivers in New Zealand

• Drive on the left-hand side
• Take regular breaks on long scenic routes
• Watch for changing weather conditions
• Refuel early in remote areas
• Check speed limits and road signs

Start Your South Island Road Trip with Euro Car Rental

The South Island is best experienced by car. With Euro Car Rental, you get reliable vehicles, affordable pricing, and friendly local service to make your road trip stress-free.

Book your car early to secure the best deals and start your South Island adventure the right way.