The South Island Scenic Highway: Christchurch to Queenstown

If you haven’t been to Ōtautahi Christchurch for a while zip into the CBD after you land in the city – it’s changed a lot in the past decade and it’s buzzing.

Hit Riverside Markets for a taste of ‘new Christchurch’. Treat yourself to fancy Flash Browns or find out why the locals are always queuing outside Dimitris. Cruise through the cool boutiques in the laneways surrounding the market.
Spend the next 2 days enjoying all the activities that Christchurch has to offer, see the Blue penguins at the International Antarctic Centre and take a punt down the Avon River.
4-star Rydges Latimer Christchurch

When you’re ready, head south on State Highway One. Once you’ve turned onto State Highway 79, you’ll see why the South Island’s renowned for its beauty.

The pretty town of Geraldine’s worth a look – relish the tasting table at Barkers Foodstore ... you’ll struggle to leave without buying something.

Stop off at the famous Fairlie Bakehouse for one of their incredible Kiwi pies (aka love wrapped in pastry). The most popular? Pork Belly and Apple hands down (probably due to the crunchy crackling baked into its lid).
Another 45 minutes down the road and you’ll be wowed by the aquamarine waters of Lake Tekapo. No need to rush to grab photos – you’re here for a two-night stay.
Come nighttime, you’ll be dazzled – literally. This is the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve and the stargazing here is mind-blowing.

Unwind with an afternoon soak and massage at Tekapo Springs – it has some of the best views in town.
Immerse yourself in one of the world’s best astro-tourism experiences at the Dark Sky Project accompanied by dinner at the Dark Sky Diner.

At night, sit back with a glass of Central Otago Pinot Noir for some self-guided stargazing.

4-star Peppers Bluewater Resort

Wake up to the sun rising above the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd. Take a stunning lakefront walk and enjoy a coffee and a bite of breakfast from the Greedy Cow. En route to Aoraki Mt Cook (105km), stop at the Lake Pūkaki Visitor Centre and grab that iconic shot of Aoraki’s peak with the lake that is so turquoise it looks surreal.

Pop into Mt Cook Alpine Salmon and sample the salmon which the Mackenzie region is so well-known for. Arrive at Aoraki Mt Cook village and it’s time to explore the National Park. We recommend the stunning Hooker Valley Track walk (3 hours return) or the easier Kea Point Track (1 hour return).Then hit the road south to Twizel (65km)Tonight’s a night for relaxing and there’s no better place to do it than in the outdoor baths at SkyScape.

4-star BreakFree The Point

After breakfast, hit the road south.

Wave goodbye to the Mackenzie (sniff) but as you head out of Twizel make sure you stop at the Waitaki Clay Cliffs … it’s like walking into a western movie!

Relax and recharge at Omarama Hot Tubs and you’ll be ready for the drive ahead.

Wait until you reach Cromwell for lunch so you can make the most of The Stoaker Room and Bistro. They steam, bake, grill and smoke food in French Oak Pinot Noir Barrel Cookers – it’s sublime and you’ll love its laid back atmosphere.

While you’re in Cromwell, head to The Wooing Tree Vineyard and taste their unique Blondie. This Blanc de Noir is a champagne-coloured wine made from 100% Pinot Noir grapes – and it is delish! In fact, Reece Witherspoon says it’s her fave NZ wine.

If you ariive in Queenstown with time to spare before your flight, head to Steamer Wharf for a stroll and maybe a bite to eat before you head back to Frankton to farewell New Zealand a little sad that a truly remarkable holiday has come to an end.

4-star BreakFree The Point

Queenstown has some absolute bangin’ brekky spots, including Bespoke Kitchen, Vudu Café & Larder and Big Fig.

Now your next big decision is wine and dine or action and adventure? Maybe a bit of both? Queenstown is the adventure capital of the world.

As well as jetboating, you can bungy jump, tandem skydive, river surf and canyon swing.  Can’t decide how to get your blood pumping? AJ Hackett have some ka mau te wehi (awesome) combo adventure deals. If you are a dedicated winer and diner, book a small-group Altitude Tour and be guided through some unforgettable wineries, and taste why Central Otago is renowned for wine. Prefer to go it alone? Gibbston Valley Winery, Mt Rosa and Kinross should all be on your list.

4-star BreakFree The Point