The Southern Explorer NB

Days 1-2

We welcome you to ZigZag in the adventure capital Queenstown, a vibrant alpine town nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by dramatic peaks, including the aptly named Remarkables. Often dubbed the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown offers something for everyone—whether you’re chasing thrills, seeking relaxation, or simply want to soak in the scenery.

For the adrenaline seekers, Queenstown is your playground. Take the leap at the world’s first commercial bungy jump, experience high-speed spins on a jet boat, go white water rafting or try riverboarding, soar above the mountains on a skydive, or fly through the treetops on a zipline. For something truly unique, don’t miss the wild ride in a semi-submersible “shark” boat, or head off-road with a 4WD adventure into the backcountry.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, there’s just as much to enjoy. Ride the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak for panoramic views, then perhaps take a paraglide back down. Cruise across the lake aboard the iconic TSS Earnslaw, a 100-year-old coal-fired steamship, or explore Queenstown’s beautiful botanic gardens and waterfront walkways. Nearby Central Otago is one of New Zealand’s top wine regions—join a wine tour and sample world-class pinot noir while taking in stunning vineyard views.

Film buffs can take a day trip to Glenorchy, a picturesque village at the head of Lake Wakatipu and the gateway to many famous Lord of the Rings filming locations. The drive itself is worth it—often called one of the most scenic in the world.

Nearby Arrowtown is a historic gold mining settlement. Nestled on the Arrow River, this picturesque and character-filled village has retained much of its original ‘gold rush’ architecture, and the pretty colonnade of old shops and buildings in its centre resemble those from an old ‘wild west’ film set.

With two days to explore, you could also hire a bike, go fishing, enjoy the local restaurants and cafés, or take a drive up to Deer Park Heights for some of the best views in town (and perhaps spot a few friendly Highland cattle and alpacas).

However you choose to spend your time, Queenstown never disappoints—whether you're ticking off your bucket list or simply enjoying the atmosphere in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful destinations.

Accommodation: Camping (Queenstown)

Day 3

This morning, we leave Queenstown and headinto the heart of the South Island.

We first travel through the spectacularKawarau Gorge, where the road carves its way between rugged rock walls and theturquoise waters of the Kawarau River. This dramatic landscape marks thegateway into Central Otago, a region defined by wide skies, striking geology,and ever-changing light.

From here, we continue into the Lindis Pass,one of New Zealand’s most iconic alpine crossings. The road climbs throughsweeping tussock-covered hills, revealing vast, open landscapes that stretch inevery direction—an unforgettable contrast to the more rugged gorges behind us.

We then make our way toward Omarama, beforedetouring to the remarkable Clay Cliffs near the town. Here, a short walk leadsthrough a surreal maze of towering pinnacles and narrow ravines carved fromancient glacial deposits—an unexpected and striking natural wonder.

Continuing north, the landscape graduallytransforms as we approach the Mackenzie Basin, where wide-open plains andshimmering lakes begin to dominate the scenery.

By the time we reach Glentanner Park Centre,we are deep in alpine country at the foot of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.This will be our base for the next two nights, surrounded by some of the mostspectacular mountain scenery in New Zealand.

Accommodation: Camping (Glentanner)

Day 4

Welcome to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, a dramatic alpine wilderness of ice, rock, and towering peaks. Home to 19 mountains over 3,000 metres—including Aoraki/Mount Cook itself, New Zealand’s tallest at 3,724 metres—this is a place where nature takes centre stage.

There are countless ways to explore the area. Choose from a variety of well-maintained walking tracks that lead to breathtaking viewpoints of glaciers, rivers, and alpine lakes, including the renowned Hooker Valley track.

For something truly memorable, take a scenic flight over the Southern Alps, cruise among real icebergs on the Tasman Glacier Lake, or visit the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre, which includes a museum, planetarium, and cinema.

Or simply relax at The Hermitage in Mount Cook Village, enjoy a coffee, and soak in the majestic scenery that surrounds you.

Whether you’re after adventure or tranquillity, this is a day you won’t forget.

Accommodation: Camping (Glentanner)

Day 5

This morning, we enjoy a short drive to Lake Tekapo.

We first retrace the spectacular shoreline of Lake Pukaki, where the road hugs the edge of its vivid turquoise waters. Behind us, the snow-capped Southern Alps gradually recede, while ahead the vast Mackenzie Basin begins to open up—an ever-changing landscape of braided rivers, golden tussock, and wide open skies.

As we head north, the scenery softens from dramatic alpine peaks into the sweeping openness of the Mackenzie Country. This is one of the most visually striking drives in New Zealand, with constant opportunities to pause and take in the expansive views across the basin.

We soon arrive at the little village of Tekapo and set up camp for two nights.

Accommodation: Camping (Tekapo)

Day 6

Today is a ‘day off’ in Lake Tekapo, a hub for both summer and winter adventure. During the day, you’re free to enjoy this pretty village and its surrounds however you choose.

Relax in the soothing Tekapo Springs Hot Pools, stroll along the lakefront to the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, or simply unwind in one of the village cafés with a coffee and panoramic views of the lake and mountains.

For those looking for something more active, there are fantastic walking trails, optional scenic flights, mountain biking, and horse trekking experiences available in the surrounding area, all showcasing the dramatic Mackenzie landscape from different perspectives.

The village sits within the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve, one of around twenty Dark Sky Reserves worldwide, and the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. On a clear night, the stargazing here is truly unforgettable, with crystal-clear skies revealing an extraordinary display of stars.

Accommodation: Camping (Tekapo)

Day 7

This morning, we bid farewell to the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo and head toward the rugged beauty of the northern West Coast via the village of Geraldine and the Inland Scenic Route.

Crossing the spectacular Rakaia Gorge, we continue north and west into Arthur's Pass National Park, climbing steadily into the dramatic alpine landscape of the central Southern Alps. Arthur's Pass is the highest and most rugged of the three mountain passes crossing the South Island, with towering peaks, deep gorges, braided rivers and vast scree slopes creating some of New Zealand's most breathtaking scenery. We'll make plenty of scenic stops along the way, giving you time to soak up the spectacular views—and keep an eye out for the cheeky kea, New Zealand's famous alpine parrot.

Descending the western side of the pass through lush native beech forest, we continue into the peaceful West Coast settlement of Moana, nestled on the shores of beautiful Lake Brunner. We arrive in the late afternoon, where you can relax by the lake and enjoy the tranquillity of one of the West Coast's hidden gems after a truly spectacular journey across the Southern Alps.

Accommodation: Camping (Moana)

Day 8

This morning, we farewell the tranquil lakeside village of Moana, nestled on the shores of beautiful Lake Brunner, and continue west to the Tasman Sea.

Following a peaceful inland route to the Grey River, we then turn north and trace the spectacular coastline to Punakaiki. Along the way, we'll pass through lush rainforest and alongside wild beaches, with plenty of opportunities to admire the untamed beauty that makes this part of New Zealand so special.

Arriving in the village of Punakaiki, we'll stop to explore the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, where the relentless pounding of the ocean has carved one of the country's most fascinating natural wonders.  

The Pancake Rocks are a geological marvel not to be missed - thirty million years of erosion has created varying layers of hard and soft limestone, all of which look like gigantic ‘stacks of pancakes’, hence the name. The same erosion has also created a series of caves and channels.

On a rough day, the sea thunders into the caves and forces its way up through the vertical shafts, bursting out the top through a number of blowholes. This impressive natural wonder can be accessed via a series of well-maintained boardwalks and pathways.

It's the perfect introduction to the dramatic landscapes of the West Coast.

Accommodation: Camping (Punakaiki)

Day 9 | Free Day.

Your chance to explore beautiful Punakaiki. ‘Must do's’ include walking, paddleboarding or kayaking the Pororari River Loop through the Paparoa National Park, exploring the Punakaiki Cavern, admiring the beautiful coastal headland at the end of the Truman Track or simply taking in the sunset on the beach right at camp.

Accommodation: Camping (Punakaiki)

Day 10

Venturing north today, we hug the craggy coastline as we wind our way up the West Coast. Along the way, we pass endless black sand beaches, headlands and bays on our left, and deep gorges, high cliffs and the dense rainforest of the Paparoa National Park on our right.

We make a stop at Cape Foulwind, so named by Captain James Cook after his ship was blown out to sea here in 1770. If you like, hop out here and walk the spectacular 3.4km walkway with its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, cliffs and seashore. We’ll pick you up near the lighthouse at the other end.

We then make a stop in nearby Westport before moving on to the tiny coastal enclave of Mokihinui, our base for the next 2 nights.

Accommodation: Camping (Mokihinui)

Day 11 | Free Day.

(optional free day road trip to the Oparara Basin – weather permitting)

Enjoy a relaxing day at the lush, unspoilt Gentle Annie’s campsite, nestled among Nikau-fringed native bush at the mouth of the Mokihinui River. Or join us on an unforgettable optional day trip north into the heart of Kahurangi National Park to explore the spectacular Oparara Basin.

This remarkable area is home to a stunning network of ancient limestone caves, arches, and formations carved over a million years by the gentle flow of the Oparara River.

After a quick stop in Karamea, we drive to the trailhead and walk through an enchanted rainforest of towering beech and podocarp trees, thickly carpeted with mosses and ferns. The fairy-tale atmosphere intensifies as you enter the massive limestone arches.

The Oparara Arch is the largest natural limestone arch in the Southern Hemisphere. Soaring 43m high, 79m wide, and 219m long, it is beautifully illuminated and mirrored in the dark, whiskey-coloured waters below. Nearby, the smaller but equally photogenic Moria Gate Arch stands 19m tall and can be explored via a unique entrance through a hole in the forest floor, allowing a stroll along the riverbank beneath its impressive span.

A well-maintained loop track from Moria Gate winds through the forest, past the serene Mirror Lake tarn, and back to the car park—where cheeky Weka birds often make an appearance.

Accommodation: Camping (Mokihinui)

Day 12

This morning, we retrace our journey back down the thin strip of bitumen that is Highway 67 as it squeezes between the desolate black sand beaches of the West Coast on our right and the rugged, forested mountains of Kahurangi National Park on our left.

We stop briefly in Westport for supplies, before turning inland and driving through the breath-taking Buller Gorge, an incredibly scenic drive that follows the Buller River as it meanders down through the Southern Alps to the Tasman Sea.

We then make our way to Murchison where we camp for two nights.

Accommodation: Camping (Murchison)

Day 13 | Free Day.

For the day here in Murchison, you have a few options. The Buller River offers rafting from Grade 3 through to Grade 5, catering to both beginners and seasoned adventurers.

Another exciting option is a half day guided experience that takes you out of town in a 4WD, across a working deer farm, and then onto a bush walk to a very unusual sight: perpetually burning flames coming straight out of the forest floor.

There are many easy and short walks in and around Murchison, giving great views of the surrounding area and river.

Murchison itself is a friendly compact village with a handful of excellent cafés, a pub and local shops, all easily accessible on foot. Our campground is in easy walking distance to of the town centre.

Accommodation: Camping (Murchison)

Day 14

Today we leave peaceful Murchison and begin our journey north towards the stunning Tasman region.

Our first stop is spectacular Lake Rotoiti, nestled within the rugged beauty of Nelson Lakes National Park. Surrounded by forested mountains, this crystal-clear alpine lake is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, excellent walking tracks, and abundant wildlife, including brown trout, native longfin eels, and graceful black swans.

Moving on, we continue north through the Tapawera Valley’s hops, berry and kiwifruit plantations, before following the winding Motueka River down towards the coast, where the scenery gradually changes from alpine forests to the sun-kissed orchards that the Tasman region is famous for.

By mid-afternoon, we arrive in Kaiteriteri, where golden sands, crystal-clear waters and a laid-back coastal atmosphere welcome us. This idyllic seaside village is the gateway to the postcard-perfect Abel Tasman National Park, and our base for the next three nights as we explore one of New Zealand's most spectacular coastal regions.

‍Accommodation: Camping (Kaiteriteri)

Days 15 & 16 | Free Days.

Located at the top of the South Island, Abel Tasman National Park is a coastal paradise famous for its golden beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lush native bush. Often likened to a tropical island escape, this extraordinary wilderness blends natural beauty with accessibility, making it one of New Zealand’s most beloved national parks.

The star attraction is the Abel Tasman Coast Track, a world-renowned walking trail stretching 60 kilometres along the shoreline. The well-maintained path winds past hidden coves, dramatic headlands, and ancient native forest, with panoramic views at every turn. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual walker, this track offers flexible options to suit all fitness levels and timeframes.

Most visitors explore the park by combining walking with one of the many water taxis that shuttle between Marahau and the park’s remote bays. A typical day might involve catching a boat to a bay deep inside the park, walking one or two scenic sections of the track, and then hopping back on a water taxi in the afternoon. Kayaking is another popular option—glide past seals, paddle into sea caves, or stop for lunch on your own private beach.

For those who’d rather take it easy, scenic cruises offer a relaxing way to soak in the coastline, while flightseeing or skydiving (book in advance!) provide a once-in-a-lifetime aerial view of this stunning coastal landscape. And of course, if you simply want to unwind, there are countless safe, swimmable beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or a picnic in paradise.

Abel Tasman is more than a national park—it’s a place to reconnect with nature, find adventure, or just sit back and enjoy the view.

‍Accommodation: Camping (Kaiteriteri)

Day 17

Today we leave the golden beaches of Kaiteriteri and travel north through the fertile orchard country around Motueka, making our way towards one of New Zealand's most scenic drives.

Our first adventure is the climb over the spectacular Tākaka Hill, affectionately known as Marble Mountain thanks to its rich limestone and marble formations. Rising to 791 metres above sea level, the road rewards us with breathtaking views across the Tākaka Valley, Golden Bay and the distant peaks of Kahurangi National Park.

Near the summit, we'll enjoy a fascinating guided visit to the Ngārua Caves (entry included). These ancient limestone caverns are adorned with spectacular stalactites and stalagmites and are home to the remarkably preserved skeleton of an extinct moa. The marble quarried from this area has also been used in some of New Zealand's most iconic buildings, including Wellington's Parliament Buildings and the Beehive.

Descending into Golden Bay, we arrive in the vibrant township of Tākaka, where colourful galleries, boutique shops and inviting cafés reflect the region's creative spirit.

A short drive brings us to the remarkable Te Waikoropupū Springs, affectionately known as Pupu Springs. These sacred springs are the largest freshwater springs in New Zealand and the largest cold-water springs in the Southern Hemisphere, discharging more than 14,000 litres of crystal-clear water every second. Once ranked among the clearest water sources in the world, they remain a place of immense cultural and environmental significance, with easy boardwalks leading to several excellent viewing platforms.

By late afternoon, we arrive in the peaceful settlement of Collingwood, nestled at the western end of Golden Bay. With its rich gold-mining history, relaxed pace of life, and beautiful coastal setting overlooking the sheltered waters of the bay, it's the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the tranquillity of one of New Zealand's hidden gems.

‍Accommodation: Camping (Collingwood)

Day 18 | Free Day.

Once a bustling gold rush town in the 1800s, Collingwood is now best known for its peaceful charm and access to some of New Zealand’s most remarkable natural wonders, including Kahurangi National Park and the internationally significant Farewell Spit Nature Reserve.

Stretching 35 km into the sea, Farewell Spit is a protected bird sanctuary and wetland of global importance. While public access is limited to the first 4 km, a government-approved tour company based in Collingwood is permitted to venture further. Their scenic and informative trip includes Cape Farewell (the northernmost point of the South Island), Fossil Point, and the historic spit lighthouse.

Whether or not you take the optional Spit tour, we time our day around the tides so that everyone can join us for a visit to Wharariki Beach—a stunning and remote spot with towering dunes, sea caves, rock pools, and dramatic offshore archways. It's a favourite for photographers and one of the true hidden gems of the South Island.

‍Accommodation: Camping (Collingwood)

Day 19

This morning, we farewell the peaceful seaside village of Collingwood and begin our journey south through the beautiful landscapes of Golden Bay. As we retrace our route, we pass through the creative township of Tākaka before climbing the spectacular Tākaka Hill, where sweeping views stretch across forests, valleys and the coastline.

Descending the other side of the hill, we travel through the fertile orchard country around Motueka and continue into the vibrant city of Nelson, renowned for its thriving arts scene, sunshine, and relaxed lifestyle.

A short drive then brings us to Cable Bay, nestled between native bush and the sparkling waters of Tasman Bay. Arriving in the afternoon, you'll have time to settle in and enjoy the peaceful coastal setting, with its beautiful beach, scenic walking tracks and stunning views across the bay and inlet. It is the perfect place to relax before tomorrow's adventure into the Marlborough Sounds.

Accommodation: Camping (Cable Bay)

Day 20 | Free Day.

(optional free day road trip to French Pass – weather permitting)

Today is a free day to relax and soak up the serenity of Cable Bay. Take a peaceful coastal walk, enjoy the stunning views, and reconnect with nature in this tranquil corner of the Tasman region. For those looking for a bit more action, nearby Cable Bay Adventure Park offers an adrenaline fix with quad biking, mountain biking, and one of the world’s longest flying foxes soaring high above the forest canopy.

Alternatively, join us for an optional day trip to French Pass, one of New Zealand’s most remote and dramatic coastal drives. This steep winding gravel road isn’t for the faint-hearted, but those who venture along it are rewarded with jaw-dropping views over the Marlborough Sounds, with countless bays, inlets, and ridgelines stretching as far as the eye can see.

At the end of the road lies French Pass, a narrow channel of turbulent water separating the mainland from D’Urville Island. Known for its incredibly strong tidal currents, the pass often forms whirlpools and horizontal waterfalls—an impressive natural spectacle, especially at peak tide. Nearby, the tiny settlement of French Pass is the perfect lunch stop. It features a long jetty that stretches out into the bay – the perfect spot to watch eagle rays gliding through the clear shallows below.

Accommodation: Camping (Cable Bay)

Day 21

This morning, we bid farewell to the peaceful shores of Cable Bay and make our way towards Havelock, the ‘green mussel capital’ of New Zealand, and gateway to the spectacular Marlborough Sounds.

From Havelock, we join the world-renowned Queen Charlotte Drive, a winding 35-kilometre coastal road that hugs the edge of the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound. With lush native forest on one side and the sparkling turquoise waters of the Sounds on the other, this is one of New Zealand's most scenic drives. We'll make plenty of stops along the way to admire the breathtaking views and capture some memorable photographs.

By mid afternoon, we arrive in the charming harbour town of Picton. This bustling waterfront town is the gateway between the North and South Islands, and is our camping spot for two nights.

Accommodation: Camping (Picton)

Day 22 | Free Day.

Today is yours to explore the charming seaside town of Picton, set against the stunning backdrop of the Marlborough Sounds. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront, browse boutique shops and local galleries, or relax at one of the many cafés overlooking the harbour.

Picton is home to several unique attractions, including the fascinating Edwin Fox Maritime Museum, a small but popular aquarium, and a variety of scenic boat cruises that explore the bays, islands, and inlets of the Sounds. It’s also the starting point for the Queen Charlotte Track, one of New Zealand’s top-rated hiking trails—ideal for those keen to stretch their legs and take in some of the country’s most beautiful coastal scenery.

Just a short drive from Picton lies Blenheim, the heart of New Zealand’s largest wine region. Consider joining a guided wine tour that departs directly from Picton and takes you into the stunning Wairau Valley, where you can sample world-famous Marlborough wines and learn more about what makes this region a global favourite among wine lovers.

Accommodation: Camping (Picton)

Day 23

This morning, we farewell the picturesque harbour town of Picton and board the ferry for one of the world's most scenic sea journeys.

As we cruise through the tranquil waters of Queen Charlotte Sound, you'll be treated to spectacular views of sheltered bays, lush native forest and steep, bush-clad hills before emerging into the open waters of Cook Strait. Named after Captain James Cook, who was the first European to navigate these waters, the strait separates New Zealand's North and South Islands and is just 22 kilometres wide at its narrowest point. The crossing takes approximately four hours and is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful ferry journeys in the world.

Crossing into Wellington Harbour, we arrive in New Zealand's vibrant capital city, Wellington, where our South Island adventure comes to an end.