{"id":645,"date":"2021-11-15T15:48:01","date_gmt":"2021-11-15T15:48:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/"},"modified":"2024-08-19T16:10:34","modified_gmt":"2024-08-19T15:10:34","slug":"2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Spend Epic 2 Weeks On The South Island of New Zealand Hiking, And Taking Photos"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_76 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#What_type_of_traveler_is_this_New_Zealand_itinerary_perfect_for\" >What type of traveler is this New Zealand itinerary perfect for?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Why_should_you_stick_to_the_South_Island_if_you_only_have_two_weeks\" >Why should you stick to the South Island if you only have two weeks?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Whats_the_best_way_to_travel_around_New_Zealand\" >What&#8217;s the best way to travel around New Zealand?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#More_New_Zealand_road_trip_itineraries\" >More New Zealand road trip itineraries<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#New_Zealands_South_Island_Hiking_Photography_Road_Trip_Overview\" >New Zealand&#8217;s South Island Hiking &amp; Photography Road Trip Overview<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Two-week_South_Island_hiking_road_trip_itinerary_interactive_map\" >Two-week South Island hiking road trip itinerary: interactive map<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_1_Drive_from_Christchurch_to_Tekapo\" >Day 1: Drive from Christchurch to Tekapo<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_1_%E2%80%93_Evening_stargazing_in_Lake_Tekapo\" >Day 1 &#8211; Evening: stargazing in Lake Tekapo<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_2_%E2%80%93_Morning_Lake_Tekapo\" >Day 2 &#8211; Morning: Lake Tekapo<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_2_%E2%80%93_Afternoon_drive_to_Mount_Cook\" >Day 2 &#8211; Afternoon: drive to Mount Cook<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_3_Mueller_Hut_hike\" >Day 3: Mueller Hut hike<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_4_Morning_option_1_Hooker_Valley_hike\" >Day 4 Morning (option 1): Hooker Valley hike<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_4_Morning_Option_2_Book_a_scenic_flight\" >Day 4 Morning (Option 2): Book&nbsp;a scenic flight&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_4-Afternoon_Drive_to_Wanaka\" >Day 4-Afternoon: Drive to Wanaka<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_5_Day_hike_around_Wanaka\" >Day 5:  Day hike around Wanaka<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_6_Mount_Aspiring_National_Park_Wanakas_top_photo_spots\" >Day 6: Mount Aspiring National Park &amp; Wanaka&#8217;s top photo spots<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Best_places_to_photograph_in_Wanaka\" >Best places to photograph in Wanaka<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Top_adventure_activities_in_Wanaka\" >Top adventure activities in Wanaka<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_7_%E2%80%93_Morning_Drive_from_Wanaka_to_Milford_Sound\" >Day 7 &#8211; Morning: Drive from Wanaka to Milford Sound<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_7_%E2%80%93_Afternoon_Scenic_Cruise_around_Milford_Sound\" >Day 7 &#8211; Afternoon: Scenic Cruise around Milford Sound<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_8_Morning_hike_along_the_Milford_Road\" >Day 8 Morning: hike along the Milford Road<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_8_%E2%80%93_Afternoon_drive_to_Queenstown\" >Day 8 &#8211; Afternoon: drive to Queenstown<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_9_%E2%80%93_Morning_day_trip_to_Glenorchy\" >Day 9 &#8211; Morning: day trip to Glenorchy<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_10_%E2%80%93_Morning_hike_around_Queenstown\" >Day 10 &#8211; Morning: hike around Queenstown<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_10_Afternoon_%E2%80%93_adventure_activity\" >Day 10: Afternoon &#8211; adventure activity<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_11_%E2%80%93_Morning_drive_from_Queenstown_to_Glacier_Country\" >Day 11 &#8211; Morning: drive from Queenstown to Glacier Country<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_11_%E2%80%93_Afternoon_visit_some_photo-worthy_spots_in_Glacier_Country\" >Day 11 &#8211; Afternoon: visit some photo-worthy spots in Glacier Country<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_12_%E2%80%93_Morning_hike_around_Franz_Josef\" >Day 12 &#8211; Morning: hike around Franz Josef&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_12_%E2%80%93_Afternoon_drive_to_Arthurs_Pass_National_Park\" >Day 12 &#8211; Afternoon: drive to Arthur&#8217;s Pass National Park<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_13_%E2%80%93_Morning_hike_in_Arthurs_Pass_National_Park\" >Day 13 &#8211; Morning: hike in Arthur&#8217;s Pass National Park<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_13_%E2%80%93_Afternoon_check_out_the_Devils_Punchbowl_Waterfall\" >Day 13 &#8211; Afternoon: check out the Devil&#8217;s Punchbowl Waterfall<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Day_14_%E2%80%93_Drive_to_Christchurch\" >Day 14 &#8211; Drive to Christchurch<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#How_can_this_two-week_itinerary_be_shortened_to_12_or_10_days\" >How can this two-week itinerary be shortened to 12 or 10 days?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#How_to_extend_this_two-week_road_trip\" >How to extend this two-week road trip?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Tips_for_your_New_Zealand_holiday_planning\" >Tips for your New Zealand holiday planning<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#More_New_Zealand_Travel_Resources\" >More New Zealand Travel Resources<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/#Support_my_site\" >Support my site<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n<p style=\"font-size:24px\">Are you an avid hiker? Do you like to take beautiful photos? If you answered yes and you\u2019re going to travel around New Zealand for a couple of weeks then this day-by-day road trip itinerary, covering the South Island will be your best guide!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_type_of_traveler_is_this_New_Zealand_itinerary_perfect_for\"><\/span>What type of traveler is this New Zealand itinerary perfect for? <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Helibiking-Mount-Burke-Wanaka-21-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary For Hikers and Photographers\" class=\"wp-image-11946\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Helibiking-Mount-Burke-Wanaka-21-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Helibiking-Mount-Burke-Wanaka-21-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Helibiking-Mount-Burke-Wanaka-21-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Helibiking-Mount-Burke-Wanaka-21.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This itinerary is designed for short-term visitors to New Zealand who like me love landscape photography and being outdoors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&#8217;s been optimized in the best way possible to&nbsp;cut the time spent in the car to a minimum&nbsp;in favor of spending time taking photos and hiking in the mountains. It includes all of my favorite photo spots and treks on&nbsp;the South Island.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Of course, this is not a complete list of things to do and see in New Zealand! For that, you will need way more time than just two weeks, but I understand that not everyone can allow themselves to take long holidays and travel for an extensive amount of time.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_should_you_stick_to_the_South_Island_if_you_only_have_two_weeks\"><\/span>Why should you stick to the South Island if you only have two weeks? <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Milford-Sound-14-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11950\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Milford-Sound-14-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Milford-Sound-14-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Milford-Sound-14-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Milford-Sound-14.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>My big advice is:&nbsp;if you do only have two weeks then focus on the South Island.&nbsp;I promise you that it won\u2019t disappoint you. Trying to see <a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/new-zealand-two-week-road-trip-itinerary\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"647\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">both islands in two weeks<\/a> whilst doable, it&#8217;s rather ambitious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Even though New Zealand isn\u2019t a big country and the distances may seem small, the roads here are curvy and speed limits are often very restrictive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The distance that would normally take you 2 hours to complete on a highway can easily take twice as much time in New Zealand, not including the many photo breaks you will take, because around every corner there is a view worth stopping for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11408368999\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_the_best_way_to_travel_around_New_Zealand\"><\/span>What&#8217;s the best way to travel around New Zealand?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-4-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11947\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-4-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-4-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-4-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-4.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A private helicopter of course! Unfortunately for us, mere mortals, this type of transport is way out of our budget!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For self-drive opportunities for traveling around the South Island here is what I recommend:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 1: hire a compact car and stay in hotels or hostels<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>With the ban on freedom camping and the boom of campervan travel, traveling in a motorhome doesn&#8217;t give the freedom, that it used to. Hence renting a small, gas-friendly vehicle and staying in hostels, apartments or hotels is, in my opinion, a better option nowadays. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are looking for a quick and easy way to find the perfect car for your road trip check&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.discovercars.com\/new-zealand\/christchurch\/chc?a_aid=inafarawayland\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.discovercars.com\/new-zealand\/christchurch\/chc?a_aid=inafarawayland\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Discover Cars<\/a>&nbsp;&#8211;&nbsp;a top-rated car search engine with a huge database of car rental&nbsp;companies at competitive prices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I use them personally and always appreciate their great customer service.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 2: <strong>rent a campervan you can live out of and stay at campsites<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The great side to traveling in a motorhome or small camper is that it takes away the check-in and check-out process, which you will have to go through a few times when staying in hotels. It&#8217;s also a cheaper accommodation option for group travelers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check&nbsp;the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.motorhomerepublic.com\/new-zealand\/christchurch-motorhome-rental?affiliate=inafarawayland\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.motorhomerepublic.com\/new-zealand\/christchurch-motorhome-rental?affiliate=inafarawayland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\">Motorhome Republic<\/a>&nbsp;a search engine that compiles all camper van rental companies in New Zealand. It&#8217;s way easier than checking each and every one separately. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a&nbsp;few <a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/new-zealand-motorhome-travel-information\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">things you should know before deciding on traveling in a campervan in New Zealand<\/a>, so make sure to jump to my other post to learn more.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background has-medium-font-size\" style=\"background-color:#cf2d2d30\"><strong>IMPORTANT: <\/strong>After the fleet size reductions caused by the pandemic, the choices of motorhomes and rental cars are limited, and book out quickly! Don&#8217;t miss out!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11434539599\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"More_New_Zealand_road_trip_itineraries\"><\/span>More New Zealand road trip itineraries<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This is just one of five itineraries I have designed for my&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/new-zealand-travel-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Zealand Travel Guide<\/a>. Make sure to check out the others. They contain everything you will need to plan your stay here.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/4-week-ultimate-travel-itinerary-around-new-zealand\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"644\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">A four to eight-week route on both of New Zealand\u2019s Islands<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/one-week-new-zealand-travel-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"646\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">A whistle-stop one-week tour of the South Island<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/10-day-itinerary-south-island-new-zealand\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">A 10-day route through South Island&#8217;s diverse landscapes<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/new-zealand-two-week-road-trip-itinerary\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"647\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">A two-week route on the North and the South Island<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"New_Zealands_South_Island_Hiking_Photography_Road_Trip_Overview\"><\/span>New Zealand&#8217;s South Island Hiking &amp; Photography Road Trip Overview<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Queenstown-View-From-Remarkables-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11965\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Queenstown-View-From-Remarkables-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Queenstown-View-From-Remarkables-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Queenstown-View-From-Remarkables-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Queenstown-View-From-Remarkables-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>APPROXIMATE KILOMETER COUNT:<\/strong> 2000 (ca. 1250 miles)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>PORT OF ENTRY AND EXIT: <\/strong>Christchurch International Airport<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>TOWNS VISITED: <\/strong>Tekapo, Mount Cook village, Wanaka, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Glenorchy, Franz Josef, Arthur&#8217;s Pass village<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>NATIONAL PARKS VISITED: <\/strong>Mount Cook National, Mount Aspiring National Park, Fiordland National Park, Westland Tai Poutini National Park, Arthur&#8217;s Pass National Park<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>REGIONS VISITED:<\/strong> Canterbury, Otago, Southland, West Coast<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This road trip itinerary goes in a loop. You will start travelling in Christchurch &#8211; South Island&#8217;s biggest city and main airport hub.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You will then follow it clockwise, visiting some of the most beautiful places on the South Island, including Mount Cook National Park, Fiordland National Park, West Coast glaciers, and Arthur&#8217;s Pass National Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background has-medium-font-size\" style=\"background-color:#24ad9936\"><strong>TIP:&nbsp;<\/strong>Since this itinerary goes in a loop it can also begin and finish in Queenstown, or be done counterclockwise (refer to the map below)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Two-week_South_Island_hiking_road_trip_itinerary_interactive_map\"><\/span>Two-week South Island hiking road trip itinerary: interactive map <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Below, you can find the map for this itinerary. Press the top left button to switch on different layers. The map showcases many popular photography spots on the South Island, as well as the trailhead for many hikes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/embed?mid=1o2KUtsvDIDjyjfmiUYyYB1lfuVBt2Gna&amp;ehbc=2E312F\" width=\"800\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:100px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11392365599\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_1_Drive_from_Christchurch_to_Tekapo\"><\/span>Day 1: Drive from Christchurch to Tekapo <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Distance from Christchurch to Tekapo: <\/strong>230 km \/ 140 miles \/ 3 hours\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"11960\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-2-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11960\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-2-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-2-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-2-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-2.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"11961\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11961\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-1-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-1-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-1-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-1.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are arriving by air, then chances are Christchurch International Airport will probably be the cheapest and most convenient airport to fly into.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Christchurch is the main and most significant city on the South Island, but cities are not why you came to New Zealand. You\u2019re here for nature and adventure.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that you&#8217;ve finally picked up your car, you&#8217;re ready to hit the road! If you opted for traveling in a campervan, make sure to stock your food supplies in Christchurch before starting your journey. The prices here will definitely be more competitive than those in the little towns which you will be passing, where there is usually just one supermarket.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your first stop is Tekapo. The 3-hour drive from Christchurch to Tekapo is a beautiful way to experience New Zealand\u2019s countryside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11404422799\">Accommodation options on night 1 in Lake Tekapo<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Value<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/tailor-made-tekapo-backpackers.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/tailor-made-tekapo-backpackers.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tailor Made Tekapo<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fabulous and very considerate owners, easy check-in and check-out process, clean and well-organized communal kitchen<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Top Rated<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/homestead-units.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/homestead-units.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Alpine Lodges<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Offers great privacy, farm animals are around. The cabins are comfortable and well-stocked<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For Luxury Fans<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/aldourie-lodge.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/aldourie-lodge.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Aldourie Lodge<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Quaint, charming, and cosy, the library room, kitchen and lounge area have wonderful views, a beautiful garden setting<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_1_%E2%80%93_Evening_stargazing_in_Lake_Tekapo\"><\/span>Day 1 &#8211; Evening: s<strong>targazing<\/strong> in Lake Tekapo<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"11974\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-Stars-1-2-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11974\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-Stars-1-2-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-Stars-1-2-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-Stars-1-2-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-Stars-1-2.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"11975\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-Stars-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11975\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-Stars-1-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-Stars-1-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-Stars-1-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-Stars-1.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Lake Tekapo belongs to the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, the largest of its kind in the World! What does that mean? Stargazing is pretty special around here. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now, stargazing isn\u2019t as simple as looking up at the sky at night. For best results schedule it for the new moon, find out where the core of the milky way is visible, research the night cloud cover, and most importantly dress up warm, to be able to withstand the nighttime temperatures in the mountains. Apps like, for example, Photo Pills are great for that!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/lake-tekapo-l113317\/tekapo-immersive-stargazing-and-astronomy-experience-t264347\/?partner_id=TYYOXUU&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;placement=content-middle&amp;cmp=Stargazing_Tekapo\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/lake-tekapo-l113317\/tekapo-immersive-stargazing-and-astronomy-experience-t264347\/?partner_id=TYYOXUU&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;placement=content-middle&amp;cmp=Stargazing_Tekapo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">book an immersive stargazing tour<\/a>, where science and native Maori astronomy are brought together. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11404421599\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_2_%E2%80%93_Morning_Lake_Tekapo\"><\/span>Day 2 &#8211; Morning: Lake Tekapo<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 1: Check out t<strong>he Church of the Good Shepherd<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Church-of-the-good-shepherd-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11978\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Church-of-the-good-shepherd-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Church-of-the-good-shepherd-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Church-of-the-good-shepherd-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Church-of-the-good-shepherd-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Within walking distance of the town center, the Church of the Good Shepherd is a very photogenic beautiful little chapel situated close to the shore of the lake.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It has become a very sought-after location by astrophotographers, which probably has something to do with the previously mentioned fact that Tekapo is a dark sky reserve. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Be warned though, it\u2019s very popular, in fact, it&#8217;s one of&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/best-photography-spots-new-zealand-south-island\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"739\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">the most popular photography spots on the South Island<\/a>.&nbsp;If you want to get a good spot arrive early and be prepared to wait for your perfect shot. Be respectful too, after all, it is a house of worship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 2: Drive up to <strong>Mount John&nbsp;Observatory <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-10-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11972\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-10-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-10-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-10-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-10.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A 15-minute uphill drive further along State Highway 8 out of town leads you toward Mount John&nbsp;Observatory, located on the top of a mountain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Complete with an awesome Astro cafe and the best view of Lake Tekapo that you can get, the drive up is definitely worth it. Just make sure you feel comfortable driving along narrow and steep roads. The windy road that leads to the top is not for the fainthearted.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 3: <strong>Lupin Flowers<\/strong> along the shoreline<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-Lupin-Flowers-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11973\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-Lupin-Flowers-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-Lupin-Flowers-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-Lupin-Flowers-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Tekapo-Lupin-Flowers.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Technically Lupin flowers are just weeds that have spread around the island like a disease creating danger to native species of plants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With that said no one can deny that Lupin flowers in bloom create fantastic scenery, where everything turns into a beautiful shade of pink and purple. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They can be found all over the place from the shoreline of Lake Tekapo, along the roadside to Mount Cook, and all around the surrounding meadows.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, this isn\u2019t a year-round phenomenon, they are only in bloom for around 6 weeks&nbsp;from the end of November until the start of the new year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_2_%E2%80%93_Afternoon_drive_to_Mount_Cook\"><\/span>Day 2 &#8211; Afternoon: drive to Mount Cook<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Distance from Tekapo to Mount Cook: <\/strong>105 km \/ 65 miles \/ 70 minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-3 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"11995\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Pukaki-Mount-Cook-National-Park-1-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11995\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Pukaki-Mount-Cook-National-Park-1-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Pukaki-Mount-Cook-National-Park-1-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Pukaki-Mount-Cook-National-Park-1-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Pukaki-Mount-Cook-National-Park-1.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"11994\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Winter-Mount-Cook-National-Park-9-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-11994\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Winter-Mount-Cook-National-Park-9-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Winter-Mount-Cook-National-Park-9-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Winter-Mount-Cook-National-Park-9-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Winter-Mount-Cook-National-Park-9.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Located within one hour drive from Tekapo, Mount Cook National Park, named after the highest mountain in the country, will quickly become your favourite place on your road trip around New Zealand. It did to me!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The scenic drive which hugs the shoreline of the crystal blue Lake Pukaki is&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/most-scenic-drives-in-new-zealand\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">one of the most beautiful&nbsp;drives<\/a>&nbsp;on the South Island and Mount Cook National Park is one of the best hiking areas on the South Island.&nbsp; &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11404424799\">Accommodation on nights 2 &amp; 3: Mount Cook Village<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Value<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/aoraki-mount-cook-alpine-lodge.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/aoraki-mount-cook-alpine-lodge.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Aoraki Mount Cook Alpine Lodge<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Close access to the DOC information centre, well-stocked kitchenettes, amazing views over the mountains<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Top Rated<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/aoraki-court-motel.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/aoraki-court-motel.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Aoraki Court Motel<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Excellent design and decorations. Guests recommend booking rooms with numbers 23-26 for the best mountain views<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Views<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/the-hermitage.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/the-hermitage.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">The Hermitage <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The magnificent views of Mount Cook from the bar and restaurant area, as well as the rooms, great buffet dinners<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11392366599\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_3_Mueller_Hut_hike\"><\/span>Day 3: Mueller Hut hike <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Mueller-Hut-Hike-26-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12001\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Mueller-Hut-Hike-26-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Mueller-Hut-Hike-26-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Mueller-Hut-Hike-26-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Mueller-Hut-Hike-26.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This challenging full-day hike takes you to one of the most famous backcountry huts in New Zealand. The whole track, which starts at the White Horse Hill car park, takes around 6-8 hours to complete.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also stay overnight in the famous Mueller Alpine Hut. Bookings are essential during the summer months (mid-November to April) and can be done online with DOC (NZ&#8217;s Department of Conservation). <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background\"><strong>For more info go to my detailed&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/mueller-hut-hike\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mueller hut hike guide.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_4_Morning_option_1_Hooker_Valley_hike\"><\/span>Day 4 Morning (option 1): <strong>Hooker Valley hike<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hooker-Valley-Mount-Cook-National-Park-5-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12002\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hooker-Valley-Mount-Cook-National-Park-5-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hooker-Valley-Mount-Cook-National-Park-5-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hooker-Valley-Mount-Cook-National-Park-5-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hooker-Valley-Mount-Cook-National-Park-5.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This relatively flat 10 kilometers round trip hike, has some of the most scenic views in the whole park. It&#8217;s also the busiest hike in Mount Cook, so I would recommend leaving very early to enjoy the path without the crowds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From the White Horse Hill parking lot, the route travels all the way through the Hooker Valley eventually ending up at the Hooker Valley Glacial Lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here icebergs can be seen carving off the glacier and floating all the way down to near the shoreline. A beautiful scene and one of&nbsp;my favorite&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/best-day-hikes-new-zealand-south-island\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">day hikes on New Zealand&#8217;s South Island.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Always make sure to check for any warnings or track closures before you set off. You can find the necessary information on the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.doc.govt.nz\/hooker-valley-track\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.doc.govt.nz\/hooker-valley-track\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Department of Conservation website<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_4_Morning_Option_2_Book_a_scenic_flight\"><\/span>Day 4 Morning (Option 2): <strong>Book&nbsp;a scenic flight&nbsp;<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Mount-Cook-Valley-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12003\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Mount-Cook-Valley-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Mount-Cook-Valley-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Mount-Cook-Valley-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Mount-Cook-Valley-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Mount Cook National Park is one of the best places to do a&nbsp;scenic flight. With many glaciers overhanging the steep mountain cliffs and the insanely blue glacial lakes it is the scenery that you won\u2019t be able to forget.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/availability.frame\" data-gyg-tour-id=\"216693\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-currency=\"NZD\" data-gyg-widget=\"availability\" data-gyg-variant=\"horizontal\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"TYYOXUU\" data-gyg-cmp=\"Mount_cook_scenic_flight_widget\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-palette-color-5-background-color has-background\">See my&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/mount-cook-national-park-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">first-timer&#8217;s guide to Mount Cook National Park<\/a>&nbsp;for more info.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Alternative accommodation on nights 2 &amp; 3 in Twizel<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#24ad9936\"><strong>TIP:&nbsp;<\/strong>Accommodation in Mount Cook is really scarce so book as far ahead as you can!<strong> <\/strong>If you didn&#8217;t make it in time and everything is fully booked already, the next biggest town is Twizel, where there are a lot more accommodation options. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Value<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/mountain-chalets-motel.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/mountain-chalets-motel.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Mountain Chalets Motel<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Walking distance to town, nice and quirky rooms, and apartments, easy to find close to the motorway<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Top Rated<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/arches-cottage.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/arches-cottage.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Arches Cottage<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The captivating metalwork around the property, the fridge is stocked with breakfast essentials, and the hot tub with perfect stargazing opportunities<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For Luxury Fans<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/mt-cook-lakeside-retreat.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/mt-cook-lakeside-retreat.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Mt Cook Lakeside Retreat<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fantastic restaurant with a tasty menu, great design fitting with the surroundings, lots of outdoor space<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11392366899\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_4-Afternoon_Drive_to_Wanaka\"><\/span>Day 4-Afternoon: Drive to Wanaka<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Distance from Mount Cook to Wanaka: <\/strong>210 km \/ 130 miles \/ 2,5 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-4 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"12012\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/That-Wanaka-Tree-6-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12012\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/That-Wanaka-Tree-6-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/That-Wanaka-Tree-6-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/That-Wanaka-Tree-6-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/That-Wanaka-Tree-6.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>On the way south from Mount Cook and after 2.5 hours on some of the best roads in the country, including the famous Lindis Pass, you\u2019ll eventually arrive in Wanaka.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Wanaka is blessed with some of the most incredible scenery thanks to being located in the heart of the Southern Alps near Mount Aspiring National Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11405468599\">Accommodation options in Wanaka on nights 4,5 &amp; 6<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Value<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/altamont-lodge.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/altamont-lodge.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Altamont Lodge<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Well-equipped kitchen and common areas, cosy rooms with wood panelling on the walls, lounge room with garden views<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Top Rated<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/lakeside-apartments.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/lakeside-apartments.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Lakeside Apartments<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Smart furnishing and decorations, spacious and sunny bedrooms, amazing balcony and terrace views<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For Luxury Fans<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/wanaka-luxury-apartments.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/wanaka-luxury-apartments.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Wanaka Luxury Apartments<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>New and clean facilities, great location, well-designed layout of the apartments<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_5_Day_hike_around_Wanaka\"><\/span>Day 5:  <strong>Day hike around Wanaka<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 1: Roys Peak<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Roys-Peak-Lake-Wanaka-5-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12014\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Roys-Peak-Lake-Wanaka-5-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Roys-Peak-Lake-Wanaka-5-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Roys-Peak-Lake-Wanaka-5-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Roys-Peak-Lake-Wanaka-5.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The hike up to Roys Peak is special, and it\u2019s probably one of the most recognizable views in NZ (apart from That Wanaka Tree, but I\u2019ll get to that soon).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The 16 km track starts from a small car park 6km from Wanaka down Mount Aspiring Road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make sure you take water because this hike is 100% exposed (no shade), so on a sunny day, it gets sweaty. At an average pace, it should take you 5-6 hours to return.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Did you know there are similar viewpoints on the mountain? The one on the Roys Peak Track and one\u00a0taken on Coromandel Peak (photo above)\u00a0on the same mountain. It&#8217;s worth noting that the second one is only accessible by helicopter.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Option 2:  Isthmus Peak<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Isthmus-Peak-12-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12018\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Isthmus-Peak-12-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Isthmus-Peak-12-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Isthmus-Peak-12-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Isthmus-Peak-12.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Isthmus Peak has a similar duration to Roys Peak but is much less exposed at the start. Isthmus Peak offers views of both Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka and the rugged nearby landscape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The head of the trail is located half an hour&#8217;s drive from Wanaka down Lake Hawea Road and this moderate track is well worth doing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-base-background-color has-background\"><span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\">For more options, visit my post about the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/best-hikes-wanaka\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">best hikes around Wanaka.<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_6_Mount_Aspiring_National_Park_Wanakas_top_photo_spots\"><\/span>Day 6: Mount Aspiring National Park &amp; Wanaka&#8217;s top photo spots<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-5 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"12016\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Rocky-Mountain-Summit-9-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12016\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Rocky-Mountain-Summit-9-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Rocky-Mountain-Summit-9-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Rocky-Mountain-Summit-9-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Rocky-Mountain-Summit-9.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"12017\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Rocky-Mountain-Summit-5-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12017\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Rocky-Mountain-Summit-5-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Rocky-Mountain-Summit-5-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Rocky-Mountain-Summit-5-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Rocky-Mountain-Summit-5.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 1: Rocky Mountain Track<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>The Rocky Mountain Track offers spectacular views over Lake Wanaka, unlike the views from the summit of Roys Peak. The track also encircles Diamond Lake and it is only a<strong>\u00a07km (2-3hour) return.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The surrounding bluffs are also very popular with rock climbers. Rocky Mountain is an excellente spot if you want to catch a sunrise from the top of a mountain but don\u2019t want to hike for too long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 2: Rob Roy Glacier Track<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Rob-Roy-Glacier-Track-4-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13037\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Rob-Roy-Glacier-Track-4-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Rob-Roy-Glacier-Track-4-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Rob-Roy-Glacier-Track-4-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Rob-Roy-Glacier-Track-4.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>This 10 km and 3-4 hour return hike located in the Matukituki Valley in the Mount Aspiring National Park is a great opportunity to visit yet another one of New Zealand&#8217;s many glaciers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The hike starts at the Raspberry Creek car park, the starting point of many other <a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/best-hikes-wanaka\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"685\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">popular hikes in Wanaka<\/a> including the Mount Aspiring Hut, the Cascade Saddle, and Liverpool hut hikes.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11405467699\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Best_places_to_photograph_in_Wanaka\"><\/span>Best places to photograph in Wanaka<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>That Wanaka Tree<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-6 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"12021\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Wanaka-Tree-Fall-2-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12021\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Wanaka-Tree-Fall-2-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Wanaka-Tree-Fall-2-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Wanaka-Tree-Fall-2-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Wanaka-Tree-Fall-2.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"12019\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/That-Wanaka-Tree-5-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12019\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/That-Wanaka-Tree-5-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/That-Wanaka-Tree-5-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/That-Wanaka-Tree-5-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/That-Wanaka-Tree-5.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"12020\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/That-Wanaka-Tree-9-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12020\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/That-Wanaka-Tree-9-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/That-Wanaka-Tree-9-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/That-Wanaka-Tree-9-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/That-Wanaka-Tree-9.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Some love it, and some hate it, but it is undoubtedly a spot that lures thousands of photograpannually year. That famous lone tree is truly photogenic but again be warned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Its huge popularity does attract quite a crowd. Getting it is really easy. Just walk along&nbsp;the lake shore from the town center towards Mount Roy. Alternatively, park your car at Stoney Creek Car Park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Glendhu Bay and Bremner Bay<\/strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Glendhu-Bay-Wanaka-Reflections-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12022\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Glendhu-Bay-Wanaka-Reflections-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Glendhu-Bay-Wanaka-Reflections-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Glendhu-Bay-Wanaka-Reflections-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Glendhu-Bay-Wanaka-Reflections.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Both are within a short drive from the town centre: one to the East and one to the West. On still days with very little wind, both bays offer beautiful, reflected mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-base-background-color has-background\">I have a separate post on the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wanaka-best-photography-spots\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">best photography spots around Wanaka<\/a>. Make sure to check it out.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Top_adventure_activities_in_Wanaka\"><\/span>Top adventure activities in Wanaka <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-5-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-13034\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-5-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-5-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-5-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-5.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Wanaka is also a great adventure hub with many\u00a0exciting outdoor activities. If you want to take a break from hiking, consider participating in one of my favorite activities, which I included below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Wanaka Scenic Helicopter Flight<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-21772\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>I have done many scenic flights in different parts of New Zealand, and I still think Wanaka and its neighbouring Mount Aspiring National Park are the best places to do them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Soar high above the Matukituki Valley up towards the glacier, where you will land for a mandatory photo spot. Gaze at the otherworldly landscape, with its deep blue chasms and stunning glacial caps. It is an experience you won&#8217;t forget for a long time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/availability.frame\" data-gyg-tour-id=\"287515\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-currency=\"NZD\" data-gyg-widget=\"availability\" data-gyg-variant=\"horizontal\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"TYYOXUU\" data-gyg-cmp=\"Wanaka_Scenic_heli_flight_widget\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Wanaka 4&#215;4 ride to Mount Burke<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Helibiking-Mount-Burke-Wanaka-17-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-21773\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Helibiking-Mount-Burke-Wanaka-17-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Helibiking-Mount-Burke-Wanaka-17-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Helibiking-Mount-Burke-Wanaka-17-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Helibiking-Mount-Burke-Wanaka-17.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Me on Mount Burke gazing at the Mou Waho island and Lake Wanaka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Hop aboard a shuttle boat and traverse Lake Wanaka, journeying toward the head of Stevenson&#8217;s arm. Marvel at the ever-changing landscape of steep walls and majestic alpine peaks surrounding you. Delve into the captivating history of this sparsely inhabited region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Pass by Stevenson&#8217;s Island and dock at the base of Mount Burke. Step onto a 4&#215;4 vehicle with your knowledgeable guide and embark on an ascent high above the lake. Feast your eyes on the expansive panorama of pristine, crystal-clear waters juxtaposed against the rugged summits of Mount Aspiring National Park as you listen to stories of early settlers who sought farmland, gold, and a new life in New Zealand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If that doesn&#8217;t sound appealing enough, you will enjoy a picnic on the mountain with some of the best views in the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/availability.frame\" data-gyg-tour-id=\"187164\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-currency=\"NZD\" data-gyg-widget=\"availability\" data-gyg-variant=\"horizontal\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"TYYOXUU\" data-gyg-cmp=\"Wanaka_Mount_Burke_4x4_widget\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Wanaka Self-Guide MTB Tour<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-17-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-21774\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-17-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-17-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-17-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/08\/Wanaka-Bike-Tours-17.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Biking from Lake Hawea back to Wanaka is the ultimate bike route in this region. After renting your bike in Wanaka, you will be transported to the nearby town of Hawea, where you will start your ride on the serene Hawea River Track, surrounded by mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This biking experience promises an unbeatable blend of scenic beauty and enjoyable moments, and it was one of my favourite experiences in Wanaka. Once you finish the ride, make sure to grab an ice cream cone from Patagonia ice cream shop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/availability.frame\" data-gyg-tour-id=\"304823\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-currency=\"NZD\" data-gyg-widget=\"availability\" data-gyg-variant=\"horizontal\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"TYYOXUU\" data-gyg-cmp=\"Wanaka_self_Guided_mtb_widget\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11392367199\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_7_%E2%80%93_Morning_Drive_from_Wanaka_to_Milford_Sound\"><\/span>Day 7 &#8211; Morning: Drive from Wanaka to Milford Sound<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Distance from Wanaka to Milford Sound: <\/strong>343 km \/ 143 miles \/ 4.5 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Milford-Sound-Sun-Beams-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12027\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Milford-Sound-Sun-Beams-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Milford-Sound-Sun-Beams-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Milford-Sound-Sun-Beams-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Milford-Sound-Sun-Beams.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Next on the itinerary\u00a0is the journey to Milford Sound. Don\u2019t\u00a0worry. We aren\u2019t missing out on Queenstown, which you will pass on the way to Milford Sound. We are just breaking up the journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It makes more sense to go to Milford Sound first and then return to Queenstown before heading to Glacier Country,\u00a0which is on the itinerary after Queenstown. This divides the driving time pretty evenly.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Alternatively, you can stay in Queenstown, book a day trip to Milford Sound, and let someone else take you there! This is an excellent option if you want to shorten this itinerary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-base-background-color has-background\"><strong>I covered this choice in a separate&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/milford-sound-visitor-information\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"735\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">post dedicated to Milford Sound.<\/a>&nbsp;<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Wanaka to Milford Sound driving experience<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>From Wanaka to Milford Sound via Queenstown, I recommend driving over the more scenic Crown Range Road. If you are travelling in the winter season, check the weather conditions first and carry snow chains!\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you pass Queenstown, you will drive towards Te Anau through a beautiful stretch of road called the Devil\u2019s Staircase along the Remarkables Mountain Range. Make sure to keep your eyes on the road, though, as this is a very windy part of the journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you thought the drive couldn&#8217;t get any better, you are in for a surprise. The best is yet to come. The Te Anau\u2014Milford Sound Road is full of amazing views. Plan a stop at the Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, and Gertrude Valley lookouts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On day 7, I highly recommend leaving Wanaka as early as possible. Even though Google&#8217;s driving time is 4.5 hours, one can easily spend the whole day on this road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#24ad9936\"><strong>IMPORTANT:<\/strong>\u00a0The road from Te Anau to Milford Sound <span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\">closes some days during the winter due to snowfall. If you are travelling in New Zealand during the winter, always check the weather conditions with\u00a0<a href=\"http:\/\/www.doc.govt.nz\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">DOC<\/a>\u00a0first before setting off. Sometimes,<\/span> snow chains are also required. Make sure your rental vehicle is equipped with them before you hit the road!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11405482899\">Accommodation in Milford Sound on night 7<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are travelling in a camper or tent, there are a few basic DOC campgrounds between Te Anau to Milford Sound. The\u00a0<strong>CamperMate App<\/strong>\u00a0will guide you to those.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/milford-sound-lodge.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/milford-sound-lodge.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Milford Sound Lodge<\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Modern and classy dec\u00f3r, commitment to the local environment, keas &#8211; the alpine parrots often visit the decks of the rooms<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/fiordland-discovery.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/fiordland-discovery.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Fiordland Discovery Overnight Cruise<\/a><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A very unique way to experience Milford Sound, the possibility to go swimming in the Fjord, and excellent shower pressure despite being on a cruise boat, a very personable crew<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#24ad9936\"><strong>Important tip<\/strong>:\u00a0Milford Sound Lodge is the only place to stay in Milford Sound for independent travellers. Book as far ahead as you can\u00a0as the spots fill up quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11405481399\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_7_%E2%80%93_Afternoon_Scenic_Cruise_around_Milford_Sound\"><\/span>Day 7 &#8211; Afternoon: Scenic Cruise around Milford Sound<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Milford-Sound-13-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12028\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Milford-Sound-13-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Milford-Sound-13-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Milford-Sound-13-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Milford-Sound-13.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Me taking in the views of the Milford Sound during the cruise<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A must-do whilst you\u2019re here is a cruise around the Fjords. There are a few companies running the cruises offering similar services at a similar price with&nbsp;Southern Discoveries&nbsp;being the top choice for many.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/availability.frame\" data-gyg-tour-id=\"63241\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-currency=\"NZD\" data-gyg-widget=\"availability\" data-gyg-variant=\"horizontal\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"TYYOXUU\" data-gyg-cmp=\"Milford_Sound_Southern_Discoveries_widget\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Alternatively to the afternoon cruise, you can splurge on an <a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/overnight-cruise-milford-sound\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"678\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">overnight cruise<\/a>, which will ultimately combine the overnight experience in Milford Sound with the cruise, plus a few extras on top, including an amazing experience on board a luxurious vessel. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>No matter what you decide on, always bring&nbsp;a raincoat with you even if it&#8217;s perfectly sunny outside as all of the boat drivers like to get up close&nbsp;to the waterfalls! With that said, don\u2019t expect it to be sunny. Fiordland National Park is the rainiest part of New Zealand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_8_Morning_hike_along_the_Milford_Road\"><\/span>Day 8 Morning: h<strong>ik<\/strong>e along the Milford Road<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-7 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"12031\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Gertrude-Saddle-8-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12031\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Gertrude-Saddle-8-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Gertrude-Saddle-8-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Gertrude-Saddle-8-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Gertrude-Saddle-8.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"704\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"12032\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Gertrude-Saddle-2-704x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12032\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Gertrude-Saddle-2-704x1024.jpg 704w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Gertrude-Saddle-2-206x300.jpg 206w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Gertrude-Saddle-2-768x1117.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Gertrude-Saddle-2.jpg 825w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 704px) 100vw, 704px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\">On the way back to Te Anau, hike either the\u00a0<strong>Gertrude Saddle<\/strong>\u00a0(6 hours, pictured above) or\u00a0<strong>Lake Marian<\/strong>\u00a0(3 hours), two of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/best-day-hikes-new-zealand-south-island\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">my favourite day hikes on the South Island of New Zealand.<\/a><\/span>\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also hike to the\u00a0<strong>Key Summit <\/strong>(3-4 hours), part of the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/routeburn-track-information\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">multiday Routeburn trek.<\/a>\u00a0This part is often done on its own as a day hike.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11392368599\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_8_%E2%80%93_Afternoon_drive_to_Queenstown\"><\/span>Day 8 &#8211; Afternoon: drive to Queenstown<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Distance from Milford Sound to Queenstown: <\/strong>288 km \/ 179 miles \/ 3.5 hours\u00a0\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Queenstown-Bobs-Peak-Sunset-1-2-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12038\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Queenstown-Bobs-Peak-Sunset-1-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Queenstown-Bobs-Peak-Sunset-1-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Queenstown-Bobs-Peak-Sunset-1-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Queenstown-Bobs-Peak-Sunset-1-2.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Queenstown is only a 2-hour drive from Te Anau or a 3.5-hour drive if you\u2019re lucky enough to stay in Milford Sound.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have a couple of extra days to spend in New Zealand, do consider adding Te Anau to your itinerary. Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland National Park, and there are other fjords you can visit while staying here, including <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/doubtful-sound-l35831\/doubtful-sound-wilderness-cruise-t126227\/?partner_id=TYYOXUU&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;placement=content-middle&amp;cmp=Doubtful_sound\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/doubtful-sound-l35831\/doubtful-sound-wilderness-cruise-t126227\/?partner_id=TYYOXUU&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;placement=content-middle&amp;cmp=Doubtful_sound\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">a day trip to Doubtful Sound.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, you\u2019ll have to do this beautiful road twice as there\u2019s only one way in and one way out of Milford Sound. How unlucky! \ud83d\ude42<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11405497299\">Best places to stay in Queenstown on nights 8,9 &amp; 10 <\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Value<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/driftaway-queenstown.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/driftaway-queenstown.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Driftaway Queenstown<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Modern furnishings and bedding, well-equipped common areas, and access to restaurants within walking distance<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Top Rated<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/the-canyons-lodge.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/the-canyons-lodge.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">The Canyons B&amp;B<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Quiet surroundings with beautiful views of the canyon, lovely and helpful staff, soaking in a jacuzzi under the stars<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For Luxury Fans<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/the-rees-luxury-apartments.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/the-rees-luxury-apartments.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2&amp;room1=A%2CA\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">The Rees Hotel<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Very attentive staff, cosy fireplace, excellent menu choices, complimentary shuttle service to downtown Queenstown<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-12379577699\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_9_%E2%80%93_Morning_day_trip_to_Glenorchy\"><\/span>Day 9 &#8211; Morning: day trip to Glenorchy<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Mount-Earnslaw-Glenorchy-Road-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12122\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Mount-Earnslaw-Glenorchy-Road-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Mount-Earnslaw-Glenorchy-Road-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Mount-Earnslaw-Glenorchy-Road-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Mount-Earnslaw-Glenorchy-Road.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>On the second day consider driving the road to Glenorchy, another little town nestled on the edge of Lake Wakatipu and only 46 kilometres or 29 miles away from Queenstown. I have driven this road countless times when I lived in Queenstown and it still remains one of my favorite drives in New Zealand. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whilst it takes only 45 minutes to get there, there are a few stops along the way you shouldn\u2019t miss, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Moke Lake<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bob\u2019s Cove<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wilson Bay<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bennet\u2019s Bluff<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Glenorchy Jetty<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Paradise Road (past Glenorchy)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>All stops are very well marked. Count at least a couple of hours for the drive and another few to see Glenorchy itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:50px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Guided tours to Glenorchy<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Since you have done quite a bit of driving in the past couple of days, maybe it&#8217;s time to take a break and let someone else take over the steering wheel. There are daily guided tours to Glenorchy leaving from Queenstown. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That way you don\u2019t have to worry about taking the wrong turn. Just relax and take in the scenery. My favorite one from the ones below is the Canoe, Jet Boat, and Paradise Road combo, which let us experience the best of the area. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/availability.frame\" data-gyg-tour-id=\"112192\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-currency=\"NZD\" data-gyg-widget=\"availability\" data-gyg-variant=\"horizontal\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"TYYOXUU\" data-gyg-cmp=\"Glenorchy_Combo_widget\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_10_%E2%80%93_Morning_hike_around_Queenstown\"><\/span>Day 10 &#8211; Morning: hike around Queenstown <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Cecil-Peak-3-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12040\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Cecil-Peak-3-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Cecil-Peak-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Cecil-Peak-3-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Cecil-Peak-3.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>One thing you can&#8217;t miss when visiting Queenstown is seeing the beautiful colours of Lake Wakatipu from above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a few hikes in Queenstown that allow that: Ben Lomond, Queenstown Hill, and Cecil Peak. My other article has a full list of <a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/seven-best-day-hikes-around-queenstown\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"737\">the best day hikes around Queenstown. <\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_10_Afternoon_%E2%80%93_adventure_activity\"><\/span>Day 10: Afternoon &#8211; adventure activity<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Queenstown-Paragliding-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12360\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Queenstown-Paragliding-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Queenstown-Paragliding-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Queenstown-Paragliding-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Queenstown-Paragliding.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>There is a reason why Queenstown has been known to some as the adventure capital of the World. I can&#8217;t think of any other place where you can Bungy jump, skydive, jet boat, and go rafting on the same day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Part of my job when working in Queenstown involved booking tourists into the adventure activities and because I had to know the product I was selling, I got to experience almost every activity on offer! Here are <a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/best-summer-adventure-activities-in-queenstown\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"690\">my top summer activities in Queenstown.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11392368999\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_11_%E2%80%93_Morning_drive_from_Queenstown_to_Glacier_Country\"><\/span>Day 11 &#8211; Morning: drive from Queenstown to Glacier Country<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Distance from Queenstown to Franz Josef: <\/strong>350 km \/ 217 miles \/ 5 hours\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Alex-Knob-Hike-New-Zealand-13-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12044\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Alex-Knob-Hike-New-Zealand-13-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Alex-Knob-Hike-New-Zealand-13-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Alex-Knob-Hike-New-Zealand-13-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Alex-Knob-Hike-New-Zealand-13.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, the time has come when you need to leave Queenstown. I hope you made the most of your stay! But hey, you\u2019re off on the road again on another adventure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The drive out of Queenstown towards the glaciers goes back through Wanaka, so if you went via the Crown Range road on the way down then drive through Cromwell on the way back up and vice versa.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It does take around 5 hours to drive from Queenstown to Franz Josef village over the beautiful Haast Pass, but break up the drive with a stop at the blue pools. It\u2019s a short walk in Mount Aspiring National Park, around one hour past Wanaka.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11405508999\">Best places to stay in Fox and Franz Josef on night 11<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Value<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/rainforest-retreat.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/rainforest-retreat.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Rainforest Retreat<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Great spa and sauna to relax after a day of hiking, accommodation for all budgets, great restaurant on site, well-equipped communal kitchen<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Top Rated<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/brand-new-cozy-cabin-in-the-paddocks-franz-josef-glacier.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/brand-new-cozy-cabin-in-the-paddocks-franz-josef-glacier.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Cosy Cabin In The Paddocks<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8220;An attraction in its own right&#8221;, beautifully furnished, wifi worked great despite the cabin being remote, very quiet<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">For Luxury Fans<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/te-waonui-forest-retreat.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/te-waonui-forest-retreat.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">The Waonui Forest Retreat<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Quiet and peaceful rooms amongst a rainforest setting, only a 5-minute walk from caf\u00e9s and restaurants in Franz Josef, exceptional food<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_11_%E2%80%93_Afternoon_visit_some_photo-worthy_spots_in_Glacier_Country\"><\/span>Day 11 &#8211; Afternoon: visit some photo-worthy spots in Glacier Country<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Lake Matheson<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Matheson-2-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12069\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Matheson-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Matheson-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Matheson-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Matheson-2.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Lake Matheson is only a few minutes away from Fox Glacier. Get up for sunrise and hike counterclockwise to the reflection island from where you can photograph Mount Cook reflecting perfectly in the water. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You read that right. Mount Cook is actually visible from here but at a totally different angle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Okarito Lagoon and Beach<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Okarito-Sunset-3-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12051\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Okarito-Sunset-3-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Okarito-Sunset-3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Okarito-Sunset-3-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Okarito-Sunset-3.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>About an hour north of Franz Josef Okarito is a small coastal town&nbsp;offering&nbsp;fantastic sunsets over the Tasman Sea. Squint your eyes and you might even see Australia \ud83d\ude09 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Lake Mapourika<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Mapourika-Sunset-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12052\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Mapourika-Sunset-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Mapourika-Sunset-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Mapourika-Sunset-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Mapourika-Sunset-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Another awesome spot to watch the sunset. Lake Mapourika is 20 minutes away and if you are heading to Okarito you will pass it on the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_12_%E2%80%93_Morning_hike_around_Franz_Josef\"><\/span><strong>Day 12 &#8211; Morning: hike around Franz Josef&nbsp;<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 1: <strong>Helicopter flight and glacier hike<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you\u2019re in Glacier Country, you\u2019ll find it very quiet compared to Queenstown, but that isn\u2019t a bad thing. It\u2019ll just give you time to relax and wind down. Just kidding, it&#8217;s time for another hike!\u00a0This time it will be a special one &#8211; a heli-hike on the glacier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ice trekking still remains one of the coolest things I\u2019ve ever done though, so if you\u2019ve got some money to spare go glacier hiking in New Zealand. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You will be taken up on the glacier by a helicopter and guided through crevasses. The experience isn&#8217;t exactly cheap, but you won\u2019t regret it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div data-gyg-href=\"https:\/\/widget.getyourguide.com\/default\/availability.frame\" data-gyg-tour-id=\"426867\" data-gyg-locale-code=\"en-US\" data-gyg-currency=\"NZD\" data-gyg-widget=\"availability\" data-gyg-variant=\"horizontal\" data-gyg-partner-id=\"TYYOXUU\" data-gyg-cmp=\"Franz_Josef_Hiking_Widget\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 2: Fox and Franz Josef glacier viewpoints<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Franz-Josef-Valley-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12047\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Franz-Josef-Valley-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Franz-Josef-Valley-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Franz-Josef-Valley-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Franz-Josef-Valley-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Apart from doing that awesome heli hike, you can also hike through both&nbsp;<strong>Fox and Franz Josef Valleys<\/strong>&nbsp;to the foot of the Glaciers. Both of them&nbsp;are 20 min drive apart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Unfortunately, the viewpoints at the end of the hikes aren\u2019t keeping up with the speed at which both glaciers are receding due to climate change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The walk to Fox Glacier is a 2.6km (return) one-hour stroll and the hike to Franz Josef is a 5.4km (return) which should take you about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Remember to obey all signs. Glaciers are dangerous and you don\u2019t want to die over that Instagram shot, right?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 3: Alex Knob hike<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Alex-Knob-Hike-New-Zealand-16-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12048\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Alex-Knob-Hike-New-Zealand-16-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Alex-Knob-Hike-New-Zealand-16-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Alex-Knob-Hike-New-Zealand-16-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Alex-Knob-Hike-New-Zealand-16.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are after something more challenging and want to see the Franz Josef Glacier without spending a few hundred dollars, check out the&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.doc.govt.nz\/parks-and-recreation\/places-to-go\/west-coast\/places\/westland-tai-poutini-national-park\/things-to-do\/tracks\/alex-knob-track\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.doc.govt.nz\/parks-and-recreation\/places-to-go\/west-coast\/places\/westland-tai-poutini-national-park\/things-to-do\/tracks\/alex-knob-track\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Alex Knob hike<\/a>.<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This 6-8-hour return hike will take you through New Zealand&#8217;s native rainforest to the summit, where you can enjoy panoramic views over the glacier (see photo above).\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11392371299\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_12_%E2%80%93_Afternoon_drive_to_Arthurs_Pass_National_Park\"><\/span>Day 12 &#8211; Afternoon: drive to Arthur&#8217;s Pass National Park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Distance from Franz Josef to Arthur&#8217;s Pass Village: <\/strong>230 km \/ 143 miles \/ 3 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-8 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"12060\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hokitika-Gorge-2-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12060\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hokitika-Gorge-2-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hokitika-Gorge-2-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hokitika-Gorge-2-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hokitika-Gorge-2.jpg 800w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"1200\" data-id=\"12061\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Devils-Punchbowl-Waterfall-4.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12061\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Devils-Punchbowl-Waterfall-4.jpg 800w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Devils-Punchbowl-Waterfall-4-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Devils-Punchbowl-Waterfall-4-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Devils-Punchbowl-Waterfall-4-768x1152.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Now that your journey is coming to an end you can start to relax and take time to heal your probably tired and aching body. Just kidding! Let&#8217;s go hiking again! When are you going to get a chance to do this again?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After leaving Franz Josef head North along Highway 6 and take the 73 Highway inland toward the northern section of the Southern Alps. Arthurs Pass Village should take you around 3 hours to reach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11405515499\">Top places to stay in Arthur&#8217;s Pass NP on nights 12 &amp; 13 <\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Value<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/arthurs-pass-motel-amp-lodge.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/arthurs-pass-motel-amp-lodge.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Arthur&#8217;s Pass Motel &amp; Lodge<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Very spacious apartments, well-equipped communal kitchen, convenient location close to walking tracks<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-text-color has-contrast-color has-alpha-channel-opacity has-contrast-background-color has-background\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Top Rated<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/bealey.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/bealey.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">The Bealey Hotel<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Great menu choices at the adjacent restaurant, spacious and clean cabins with lots of privacy, polite and friendly staff<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Best Views<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/arthur-39-s-pass-ecolodge.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/nz\/arthur-39-s-pass-ecolodge.en.html?aid=1188554&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;group_adults=2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Arthur&#8217;s Pass Ecolodge<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What guests loved about it:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Off-the-beaten-path location, comfortable beds, fantastic view of the mountains<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#24ad9936\"><strong>TIP:<\/strong> Accommodation in Arthur&#8217;s Pass village is very scarce so book as far ahead as you can!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Places to stop along the way to Arthur&#8217;s Pass NP<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hokitika<\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ll stop anywhere along the way, the coastal town of Hokitika is your best bet. The fish and chips are always best on the coast, too!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This little town is famous for manufacturing\u00a0<span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>pounamu.<\/strong>\u00a0Pounamu is a nephrite jade hand-carved into jewelry. It is highly treasured in\u00a0<\/span>Maori culture and often sourced locally.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hokitika Gorge <\/h5>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hokitika-Gorge-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12064\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hokitika-Gorge-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hokitika-Gorge-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hokitika-Gorge-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Hokitika-Gorge-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hokitika Gorge<\/strong>&nbsp;is a good spot to break up the journey, stretch your legs and take in some views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11405511699\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_13_%E2%80%93_Morning_hike_in_Arthurs_Pass_National_Park\"><\/span>Day 13 &#8211; Morning: hike in Arthur&#8217;s Pass National Park<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Arthur&#8217;s Pass is the divide between the West Coast glaciers and the East Coast beaches. High up in the mountains, plenty of hiking can be done.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 1: <strong>Bealey Spur&nbsp;Track<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Bealey-Spur-Track-Arthurs-Pass-2-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12059\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Bealey-Spur-Track-Arthurs-Pass-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Bealey-Spur-Track-Arthurs-Pass-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Bealey-Spur-Track-Arthurs-Pass-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Bealey-Spur-Track-Arthurs-Pass-2.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A moderate (5-hour return) hike which stays mainly within the bush line is a lovely day out exploring the forest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The views do get better but not right until the very end, where it comes out just below a ridgeline and offers fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and of the&nbsp;<strong>Waimakariri River.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.doc.govt.nz\/parks-and-recreation\/places-to-go\/canterbury\/places\/arthurs-pass-national-park\/things-to-do\/tracks\/bealey-spur-track\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.doc.govt.nz\/parks-and-recreation\/places-to-go\/canterbury\/places\/arthurs-pass-national-park\/things-to-do\/tracks\/bealey-spur-track\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bealey Spur track<\/a> starts 14km south of Arthurs Pass village at the&nbsp;<strong>end of Cloudesley Road.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 2: <strong>Avalanche Peak<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Avalanche-Peak-New-Zealand-20-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12057\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Avalanche-Peak-New-Zealand-20-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Avalanche-Peak-New-Zealand-20-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Avalanche-Peak-New-Zealand-20-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Avalanche-Peak-New-Zealand-20.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>A difficult all-day hike that takes 6-8 hours to complete. The views are so good from the summit though that this is the most popular hike in Arthur&#8217;s Pass. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.doc.govt.nz\/parks-and-recreation\/places-to-go\/canterbury\/places\/arthurs-pass-national-park\/things-to-do\/tracks\/avalanche-peak-route\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.doc.govt.nz\/parks-and-recreation\/places-to-go\/canterbury\/places\/arthurs-pass-national-park\/things-to-do\/tracks\/avalanche-peak-route\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The Avalanche Peak track <\/a>starts in the center of the village.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>About 10 minutes into the track you\u2019ll get spectacular views of the southern foot of the crowfoot glacier and the Devils Punchbowl Waterfall, the highest waterfall in New Zealand (Well apart from some waterfalls in Milford Sound but they aren&#8217;t permanent so don&#8217;t count).&nbsp; &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"cc-m-header-11405514899\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_13_%E2%80%93_Afternoon_check_out_the_Devils_Punchbowl_Waterfall\"><\/span>Day 13 &#8211; Afternoon: check out the Devil&#8217;s Punchbowl Waterfall<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Devils-Punchbowl-Waterfall-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12062\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Devils-Punchbowl-Waterfall-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Devils-Punchbowl-Waterfall-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Devils-Punchbowl-Waterfall-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Devils-Punchbowl-Waterfall-1.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The waterfall is a short drive away from the center of the village northbound on the 73. The walk itself doesn&#8217;t take long (around an hour) and is very well maintained, but it does include a series of steps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The 131-meter-high waterfall is very impressive and definitely photo-worthy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Day_14_%E2%80%93_Drive_to_Christchurch\"><\/span>Day 14 &#8211; Drive to Christchurch<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Distance from Arthur&#8217;s Pass to Christchurch: <\/strong>142 km \/ 88 miles \/ 2 hours\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>That&#8217;s a wrap! I hope you will have lots of fun following this hiking itinerary around the South Island of New Zealand. Make sure to leave me some feedback in the comment if you followed this plan. I am always keen on improving this site as much as possible. The same goes for any questions you may have! Just leave a comment below and I will answer personally! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where to stop along the way from Arthur&#8217;s Pass to Christchurch? <\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Lake Pearson<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Pearson-Autumn-4-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-12063\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Pearson-Autumn-4-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Pearson-Autumn-4-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Pearson-Autumn-4-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/Lake-Pearson-Autumn-4.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>It lies just outside the boundary of Arthur&#8217;s Pass NP but you will pass it nevertheless when driving back to Christchurch.&nbsp;It&#8217;s super easy to reach, as it is just next to the main road. The best time to see it is during autumn (April) when the trees growing along the shoreline turn yellow.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Castle Hill&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Another spot that you will pass on your way back to Christchurch is Castle Hill. Made famous thanks to the Lord Of The Rings franchise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Imagine hundreds of massive limestone boulders scattered on the green tussock hills, New Zealand is so famous for. It&#8217;s a great stop for stretching your longs and an easy walk with beautiful views surrounding the place.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_can_this_two-week_itinerary_be_shortened_to_12_or_10_days\"><\/span>How can this two-week itinerary be shortened to 12 or 10 days?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you don&#8217;t have two weeks, here are a few ideas on how to shorten this road trip:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Instead of driving to Milford Sound from Wanaka, head straight for Queenstown. You can then book a day tour from Queenstown to Milford Sound and back<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stay one day shorter in Wanaka<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cut Glacier Country and Arthur&#8217;s Pass out of the itinerary and finish your road trip in Queenstown. That&#8217;s the route I cover in my <a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/one-week-new-zealand-travel-itinerary\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"646\">one-week itinerary around New Zealand&#8217;s South Island. <\/a>one-week<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_extend_this_two-week_road_trip\"><\/span>How to extend this two-week road trip?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>As mentioned previously in the article, I think it&#8217;s totally worth it to add two nights in Te Anau. You can easily do another cruise around the Fjords, for example, Doubtful Sound, or another hike. <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consider backpacking one of New Zealand&#8217;s great walks. <a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/kepler-track-hiking-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"679\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kepler Track<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/backpacking-milford-track\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"680\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Milford Track<\/a>, or <a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/routeburn-track-information\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"681\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Routeburn Track<\/a>. Either of them can easily be incorporated into the plan. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tips_for_your_New_Zealand_holiday_planning\"><\/span>Tips for your New Zealand holiday planning<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If you are traveling within the peak season December through March I highly recommend booking your accommodation and car\/camper as far in advance as you can. It&#8217;s a busy time!&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you are traveling in the winter months from the end of June \u2013 the beginning of September then make sure your accommodation in Queenstown and Wanaka is booked in advance.&nbsp;Those are ski season months and both of those places are famous and busy ski towns.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>To check roads and hiking trail&nbsp;conditions, especially in the winter months, go to New Zealand\u2019s&nbsp;Department of Conservation website.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Get the CamperMate travel app for finding the&nbsp;best campsites on the island.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>I hope you will fall in love with New Zealand just as much as I did.&nbsp;<strong>If you have questions, write them in the comments and I promise I&#8217;ll respond!&nbsp;<\/strong>Don\u2019t forget to like or share this with friends who might find it useful.&nbsp;Happy and safe travels!&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"More_New_Zealand_Travel_Resources\"><\/span>More New Zealand Travel Resources<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/category\/new-zealand-itineraries\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/category\/new-zealand-itineraries\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Zealand Road Trip Itineraries<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/category\/new-zealand-photography\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/category\/new-zealand-photography\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Photography in New Zealand<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/category\/new-zealand-hiking-and-backpacking\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hiking and Backpacking in New Zealand<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/category\/new-zealand-travel-tips-and-activities\/\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/category\/new-zealand-travel-tips-and-activities\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Zealand Travel Tips and Activities<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:70px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-background\" style=\"background-color:#24ad9936\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Support_my_site\"><\/span>Support my site <span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you found the articles in my <a href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/new-zealand-travel-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/new-zealand-travel-guide\/\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Zealand Guide<\/a> useful please consider supporting my work by booking hotels, rental cars, or activities through my affiliate links. The price for you stays the same and I receive a small commission. Thank you! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\" style=\"font-size:22px\">\n<li>Book a rental car with<strong> <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.discovercars.com\/new-zealand\/queenstown\/zqn?a_aid=inafarawayland\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.discovercars.com\/new-zealand\/queenstown\/zqn?a_aid=inafarawayland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Discover Cars<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reserve a campervan with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.motorhomerepublic.com\/new-zealand-motorhome-rental?affiliate=inafarawayland\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.motorhomerepublic.com\/new-zealand-motorhome-rental?affiliate=inafarawayland\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Motorhome Republic<\/a> <\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Find hotels with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/index.html?aid=1188554\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/index.html?aid=1188554\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Booking.com<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Book your tours &amp; activities with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/s\/?q=New%20Zealand&amp;customerSearch=true&amp;partner_id=TYYOXUU&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;utm_source=info%40inafarawayland.com&amp;cmp=NewZealand\" data-type=\"URL\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/s\/?q=New%20Zealand&amp;customerSearch=true&amp;partner_id=TYYOXUU&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;utm_source=info%40inafarawayland.com&amp;cmp=NewZealand\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Get Your Guide<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>P.S<\/strong>. If you have any questions, post them in the comments below. I answer all comments personally. <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Are you an avid hiker? Do you like to take beautiful photos? If you answered yes and you\u2019re going to travel around New Zealand for a couple of weeks then this day-by-day road trip itinerary, covering the South Island will be your best guide! What type of traveler is this New Zealand itinerary perfect for? &#8230; <a title=\"How To Spend Epic 2 Weeks On The South Island of New Zealand Hiking, And Taking Photos\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/2-week-road-trip-itinerary-new-zealand-south-island\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about How To Spend Epic 2 Weeks On The South Island of New Zealand Hiking, And Taking Photos\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":4111,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[117],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-645","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-new-zealand-itineraries","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-33"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/645","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=645"}],"version-history":[{"count":50,"href":"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/645\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":28019,"href":"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/645\/revisions\/28019"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4111"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=645"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=645"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/inafarawayland.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=645"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}