Christchurch to Queenstown: An Epic Road Trip Itinerary

Distance: ~230km
Drive time: ~3 hrs
Vibe: City to serenity. Easy start, plenty of time to explore the lake or hit the hot springs.

Leaving the city behind, today’s all about getting into road trip mode. This first leg is an easy cruise through rolling farmland and country towns, with some wicked stops to break up the drive. Before you know it, you’ll be swapping traffic lights for turquoise lakes and starlit skies.

What to see

Rakaia

Quick leg stretch in Rakaia is always a yes. It’s a tiny town with a massive salmon statue – classic road trip photo opp. If nothing else, it’s a good excuse to get out of the van and breathe in some country air before pushing on.

Geraldine

Geraldine’s one of those small towns that surprises you. It’s chilled, green, and full of good food. It’s also a great mid-way point – grab a coffee and take your time. Feels like the kind of town where everyone still says hi when you walk past.

Fairlie Bakehouse

This one’s not just a stop, it’s a pilgrimage. The salmon and bacon pie is honestly a religious experience. Flaky pastry, packed full, zero dry bits – absolutely lives up to the hype. Even if it’s a slight detour, you won’t regret it.

And then you roll into destination one: Lake Tekapo. Welcome to turquoise lake views, alpine chill and stargazing skies, you’ve officially made it into road trip paradise.

The Church of the Good Shepherd

Simple, small, and right on the lake, but the vibe is massive. This spot is perfect around sunset, and it’s a local favourite for stargazing. No entry fees, loads of space to park up, and it’s the kind of spot you end up sitting at longer than planned.

Mt John Observatory

If you’re keen for the view without smashing out a hike, drive to the top – there’s a small fee, but honestly, worth every cent. We took the car up and the 360 views over Lake Tekapo are next level. You’ll see why this place is famous for stargazing.

Tekapo Springs

After a day on the road, the hot pools here are the dream. Chill with a view of the lake and mountains while your shoulders melt into the water. It’s one of those stops that turns a good roadie into a great one.

Stargazing by the Church

This one’s a DIY winner. No tour, no gear, just park up near the church, rug up, and look up. You’re in a Dark Sky Reserve now, so expect full galaxy mode. It’s quiet, peaceful and properly magic.

Where to eat

Barker’s Foodstore & Eatery – Geraldine

This place is a gem. You can taste test all their sauces and spreads, the smoothies are banging, and the food is super fresh. It’s clean, family-friendly, and perfect for a relaxed lunch before rolling into the next leg of the drive.

Fairlie Bakehouse

Can’t mention it enough – this is pie heaven. They are all incredible, but the salmon and bacon still takes the crown for me. Every time we’ve stopped here, it’s been packed with locals and travellers alike. That’s when you know it’s legit.

25 Degrees – Lake Tekapo

Full American-style burgers and friendly-as service. We rolled in not expecting much and left completely stuffed and buzzing. It’s casual, laid-back and exactly what you want after a long drive.

Ramen Tekapo

A total surprise find. Spicy ramen in a sleepy little lake town? Didn’t see that coming. Proper flavour, generous portions, and warms you up fast – especially good if you’re rolling in late.

Where to stay

Lakes Edge Holiday Park

This one’s a solid go-to for campers, it’s got powered sites right on the lake and everything you need to chill out after a big drive. Super convenient and that lake view never gets old.

YHA Tekapo / Haka House / The View Tekapo

If you’re after a warm bed and a bit more of a set-up, these all bring solid options. Clean, modern, and all within easy reach of town and the lake. You really can’t go wrong with any of these.

👉 If you’re keen to kick things off slow, Tekapo’s a great spot to stay an extra night. Perfect for stargazing and soaking in those alpine springs.

Next up? We’re heading straight for the mountains and diving into that proper alpine buzz, Mount Cook National Park is calling.

Distance: ~105km
Drive time: ~1.5 hrs
Vibe: Short n’ sweet. Gives you a full day to hike and take in the big alpine energy.

Today’s drive is short, but the scenery? Huge. As you leave Tekapo behind and start following the shoreline of Lake Pukaki, things start to get properly dramatic. Snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear glacier lakes, and a winding road that leads you straight into the heart of Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park.

If you’re not camping tonight, Twizel’s a great option too. It’s about an hour from the national park, has more budget-friendly hotel options, and makes a perfect base if you want a bit more comfort after a day on the trails.

What to see

Lake Pukaki Lookout

One of those pull-over-now kind of spots. The water here is a wild electric blue, and on a clear day, you’ll get your first proper look at Mount Cook in the distance. Park up, stretch the legs, and take it all in – you’ll be stopping for photos whether you mean to or not.

Peter’s Lookout

Possibly the most photogenic road in all of New Zealand. You’ll get that classic shot, the long straight road heading straight towards the mountains, with Lake Pukaki on your left and Aoraki towering ahead. We honestly just sat there for a while in silence, it’s that kind of view.

And then you roll into destination two: Mount Cook National Park. Surrounded by glaciers and peaks, this place just hits different – alpine air, snow on the horizon, and trails that lead you right into the wild.

Hooker Valley Track

This one’s the icon, and for good reason. Easy-going trail across swing bridges, glacial rivers, and alpine boardwalks, all ending at a lake full of icebergs. Around 2–3 hours return, but we took our time – you’ll want to stop for about 100 photos along the way.

Tasman Glacier Viewpoint

Quick, easy and totally worth it. A short walk takes you up to a lookout over New Zealand’s longest glacier. The water is a wild milky colour and the scale of the valley is just unreal. One of those “yep, nature’s massive” moments.

Sealy Tarns Track

They call it the ‘Stairway to Heaven’ – and yeah, it’s a bit of a leg burner. Around 2.5km each way, with a solid 600m elevation gain. The views back over the Hooker Valley and Mueller Lake are next level though. If you’re feeling energetic, this is the one.

Stargazing

Mount Cook sits in the middle of a Dark Sky Reserve – so the stars here are properly clear. No light pollution, no noise, just full sky magic. Whether you’re camping or just walking back from dinner, look up – it’s unreal.

Where to eat

The Greedy Cow – Lake Tekapo (Brekkie before hitting the road)

We loaded up here before leaving town and it set us up perfectly. Salmon bagels, stacked brekkie plates, and next-level coffee. Even when it was busy, the vibe was chilled and the staff were on point. Could easily have sat there all morning.

Mt Cook Alpine Salmon Shop – Just before you reach Mount Cook

Fresh sashimi, smoked salmon, salmon dip – you name it, they’ve got it. Plus, the setting is next level – right by the lake with snowy peaks in the background. We grabbed a little platter, parked up by the water, and just soaked it all in.

Chamois Bar & Grill – Mount Cook Village

Classic pub feed and perfect after a day on the trails. No frills, no fancy stuff – just decent portions, solid comfort food, and a warm vibe. One of those places that just hits the spot after a big walk and a cold evening.

High Country Salmon – Twizel

If you’re staying in Twizel or passing through, this is a solid stop. We smashed salmon skewers and sashimi that melted in the mouth. The crew next to us ordered the chowder and we were gutted we didn’t do the same.

Jasmine Thai – Twizel

Random, but brilliant. Run by a Thai family and packed with proper flavour. Big portions, fast service, and one of those surprise finds in the middle of nowhere. We ended up going back twice.

Where to stay

White Horse Hill Campground (DOC)

This one’s right in the heart of it all. You can walk straight to the Hooker Valley from camp and wake up to mountain views in every direction. Facilities are basic but that’s part of the charm – it’s peaceful, raw and real.

Glentanner Park Centre

Just outside the park, but still in the thick of it scenery-wise. You’ve got powered sites, hot showers, and even scenic flights if you’re keen to splurge. A solid middle ground if you want a few more comforts but still stay close to the action.

Twizel

Already mentioned it up top, but if you’re heading back there to stay the night, here are a couple of solid picks:

• Mountain Chalet Motels – clean, cozy, and super easy
• Twizel Holiday Park – powered sites + cabins
• Distinction Mackenzie Country Hotel – a bit more luxe, but still good value

👉 If hiking’s ya thing, defo consider staying an extra night to hit more trails or book a scenic flight over the glaciers.

Next up, we’re heading for the lakeside chill and mountain passes of Wanaka. But first, soak in that alpine silence one more time. You’ll miss it.

Distance: ~210km
Drive time: ~3 hrs 30 mins
Vibe: Scenic drive day. Lindis Pass is mega photogenic – take your time on this beaut stretch.

You’re leaving the alpine heights of Mount Cook today, but the scenery still slaps all the way through. This route takes you through wide valleys, golden hills and some of the best roadside stops on the South Island.

It’s a longer day behind the wheel, but the views, food and final destination make it a proper vibe.

What to see

Omarama

This place feels like the kind of town where the pies are always hot and no one’s in a hurry. Worth a stop to stock up or stretch the legs – and if you’ve got time, the Clay Cliffs are just out of town and properly wild. Like something out of a sci-fi film, but in the middle of nowhere NZ.

Lindis Pass Lookout

One of those “pull over NOW” moments. You’ll cruise through these golden rolling hills with barely another soul in sight, then bam, big open skies, bendy roads and proper South Island drama. No fences, no noise, just you and the road.

Tarras

Tiny town, massive vibes. It’s got that blink-and-you-miss-it charm, but the café here is one of those local secrets that turns into a trip highlight. Good coffee, friendly as staff, and if you’ve got time, sit down and chill for a bit. It’s a slow travel kinda spot.

And then arrive in Wanaka – lakeside bliss with mountain views and a town that knows how to do food, beer, and downtime right. First impressions? This place is a bit of us.

That Wanaka Tree

Yeah, you’ve seen it on the ‘gram – and yeah, it actually is that photogenic. A lone tree, growing out of a lake, backed by mountains… it’s almost annoyingly perfect. Best seen at sunrise or sunset when the light turns it all gold and pastel.

Diamond Lake Track

If you’ve got a bit of energy left after the drive, this track is a proper reward. The climb’s no joke, steep and a bit of a leg burner – but when you hit the top and look out over Lake Wanaka and the valleys? Worth every step. Take the East Track up and loop down the West if you want the full send.

Rippon Vineyard

Wineries don’t get much better than this. Rolling up here feels like you’ve stepped into a postcard – sweeping views, calm energy, and wine that’ll make you consider quitting your job and moving to a farm. 

The tasting’s free (yep, really), and the team are total legends. Just book ahead – this one’s no secret.

Where to eat

High Country Salmon – Twizel (brekkie before you hit the road)

Yes, because it’s just that good. Coffee is proper decent, and the eggs benedict is melt-in-your-mouth level. 

Tarras Country Café

This is that roadside spot where you stop for a coffee and end up staying for a full-on meal. Service is top notch, the food’s homemade and hearty, and the ice cream? Game changer. If you’re passing through and hungry – this is the one.

Curbside Coffee & Bagels – Wanaka

One of our fave chill spots in town. You’re sat next to a stream, sipping top-tier coffee, and smashing into a Reuben or a salmon + cream cheese bagel that tastes like it was made with love. Local favourite for a reason.

The Stoaker Room

If you only go out for one proper meal in Wanaka, make it this. We got the tasting platter for four and every single thing on it slapped – smoked meats, roasties, home-style veg, all cooked in these wild custom barrel BBQs. Staff are wicked, wine’s delish, and they’ll even show you how the whole thing works if you ask. Total vibe.

Where to stay

Wanaka Lakeview Holiday Park

Close to town, camper-friendly, and the views from the top spots are next level. Big spaces, clean showers, and a chill crowd – ticks all the boxes.

Albert Town Campground

If you want something a bit more stripped back, head just out of town to Albert Town. It’s right by the river and feels proper peaceful. No frills, but a top spot to park up and watch the stars.

The Camp – Lake Hawea

Wanna wake up right on the lake? This one’s for you. It’s a bit outside Wanaka, but the setting makes it worth it. Feels like one of those “how is this even real” spots.

Wanaka Hotel / Mountain View Backpackers

Both solid if you’re ditching the van for the night. Clean rooms, friendly vibe, and walking distance to everything you’ll want to hit in town.

Tomorrow’s all about switching off, slowing down, and enjoying the lake life. You’ve earned it. Wanaka’s one of those places you think you’ll stay for one night, then end up pushing it to three. Let’s roll into a no-drive day next.

Distance: 0km
Drive time: 0 hrs
Vibe: Rest up. Explore by foot or bike. Optional local missions if you fancy it.

Time to slow it right down. You’ve been racking up the KMs, now it’s all about waking up late, walking by the lake, eating something delish, and maybe getting out for a cheeky local adventure if the vibe hits. 

Wanaka’s got that perfect combo of laid-back energy and sneaky epicness – and it’s defo the kind of place that makes you wanna stay longer.

What to see

Rob Roy Glacier Track – Mt Aspiring National Park

This one’s a stunner. The walk in is lush and green, then boom – glacier right in your face. It’s about 10km return, takes around 3.5 hours, and yep, there are a few uphill bits but it’s all manageable. Best bit? There’s a river at the bottom that’s basically made for a post-hike dip. Cold but mint.

Kayaking or Paddleboarding on Lake Wanaka

Chill activity? Sorted. Hire a kayak or paddleboard down by the lake and cruise out with the mountains all around you. It’s calm, peaceful, and honestly one of the best ways to take in the scenery without having to work too hard for it.

Bike Trails Around Town

Wanaka’s built for bikes. Whether you want a cruisy lake loop or something a bit dustier through the hills, you’ll find a track that matches the mood. Hire one in town and just send it. Everything’s close by and easy to navigate.

Where to eat

Scroggin Coffee & Eatery

Start your day strong here. We had the cold smoked salmon toast and it was honestly elite – fresh, packed with flavour, and plated like it belonged in a bougie city café (but without the price tag). Coffee? Spot on. Chill spot, great brekkie.

Wanaka Food Truck Park

If you’re gonna eat anywhere today, make it here. 

You’ve got all the options, but we went straight for Firebird’s wings. Juicy, loaded with flavour, and the ghost pepper wings were proper spicy but still tasty. It’s got a buzz about it too – local crew, backpackers, families – all hanging out for a feed.

Big Fig Wanaka

Right on the lakefront and absolutely banging. Big Fig is all about slow-cooked Middle Eastern-style goodness served fast. You pick what you want, load your plate up, and pay by weight. The lamb melts in your mouth, the salads are fresh AF, and it’s the perfect spot to eat in the sun or grab a takeaway and head lakeside.              

Where to stay

No need to move – wherever you set up camp yesterday, stay put. Whether you’re lakeside at Lakeview Holiday Park, kicked back at The Camp out in Hawea, or cozied up in a motel or hostel in town, you’re right where you need to be.

That’s the vibe for today. No driving, no rush – just time to breathe in the mountain air and let the road trip slow down for a bit. 

Tomorrow? We’re rolling over the Crown Range, through the historic gold town of Arrowtown, and landing in Queenstown – the adrenaline capital of the South Island. Let’s gooo.

Distance: ~115km total
Drive time: ~2 hrs 15 mins
Vibe: Historic gold town then the adrenaline capital. Loads to explore in both spots.

Time to swap lakeside chill for winding roads and big energy. This drive over the Crown Range is short but mighty, mountain passes, local quirks, and some of the best roadside stops of the trip. 

Take your time getting over the hill, explore Arrowtown’s old-school charm, then cruise into Queenstown with the sun dropping behind the Remarkables. This one’s got range.

What to see

Mt Iron Summit Walk (Optional Early Start)

If you’re up early and want to start the day with a view, hit this one before you leave Wanaka. It’s only about 1.5 hours round trip, a decent climb, and the 360° views from the top are a proper goodbye-to-Wanaka moment.

Crown Range Road

The highest sealed road in NZ – and a total ride. Twisty, scenic, and a campervan classic. The drive itself is a highlight, especially when you hit the summit and everything opens up around you.

Cardrona Hotel

You’ve 100% seen this one on Insta. One of NZ’s oldest pubs, and the perfect mid-morning coffee (or pint) stop. Super cosy inside, great beer garden out the back, and a solid spot for a toastie or cheeky brownie.

Bradrona

Yep, it’s a fence covered in bras. Quirky as, raises money for breast cancer, and weirdly iconic. Pull over, have a laugh, and maybe even leave one behind.

Crown Range Summit Lookout

You’ll want to pull over here. Big mountain energy and full valley views. On a clear day, it’s one of the best lookout points in the country. Great spot for a camper-side cuppa or snack break.

Arrowtown

This place is unreal. 60+ heritage buildings, cute cafés, local boutiques, and leafy streets that feel like stepping into a movie set. It’s stunning in every season – gold in autumn, green in spring, snowy in winter. Don’t rush it – grab a coffee, stroll the river track, and soak up the slow vibe.

And then you roll into Queenstown. Winding alpine roads turn into lakeside driveways and you get your first glimpse of Lake Wakatipu backed by the Remarkables. It’s one of those moments where you just go… yep. We’ve made it.

Queenstown Sunset Spots

End the day with a golden hour view. Faves include:

• Coronet Peak – mountain vibes
• Lake Hayes – mirror reflection realness
• Moke Lake – peaceful and perfect
• Queenstown Lakefront – right in town
• Bob’s Peak or Wilson Bay if you want to escape the crowds

RatPack Tip: If you’re buzzin’ on a big travel day, keep it mellow and save the adrenaline for tomorrow…there’s lots of it.

Where to eat

Curbside Coffee & Bagels – Wanaka (brekkie before you go)

Get your coffee and bagel fix before hitting the road. Still dreaming about that salmon + cream cheese combo – and the coffee’s top tier too.

The Dishery – Arrowtown

This one’s a proper hidden gem. Tucked away in a garden setting with some of the best brunch we’ve had. Bonus points for the cocktail list and the views – especially if you’re keen to walk or cycle the Wharehuanui trail nearby.

Sherwood Queenstown

Straight-up wholesome and full of flavour. Everything’s seasonal and pulled straight from their own garden. The whole vibe is chill and earthy – perfect for a low-key dinner or cosy date night.

Sundays

Inside an old church with mountain views and seriously good food. We hit it twice – the pizzas are great, the cocktails even better. Try the banoffee pie martini – yes, it’s as good as it sounds. Plus, there’s games while you wait and a buzzing local vibe.

Where to stay

LYLO Hostel / Queenstown Adventure Hostel / Absoloot Hostel QT

All three are bang in town, super social, and perfect for meeting other travellers. Comfy beds, clean kitchens, and good vibes all round.

Queenstown Top 10 Holiday Park

Powered sites, hot showers, and close to everything. Solid camper option if you want a bit more comfort and space.

Driftaway Queenstown

If you wanna treat yourself, this is it. Lakeside views, sleek new facilities, and even private hot tubs. It’s like vanlife but fancier.

Rendezvous Heritage / St Moritz Hotel

Both are great for those ditching the camper for a hotel night. Luxe vibes, epic views, and perfect for a bit of R&R after a few nights off-grid.

Today was the perfect mix of scenic roads, pub stops and historic charm, but the real adventure kicks off tomorrow. Queenstown’s got bungy, jet boats, epic eats and more. But for now, grab a bite, settle in, and enjoy that first night by the lake. The good stuff’s just getting started.

Distance: Local exploring only
Drive time: Optional
Vibe: Jet boat, bungy, skyline gondola – today’s about the adventures not the drive.

No big drives today – just big energy. Whether you’re flinging yourself off a bridge, soaking in hot tubs with a view, or hunting down Queenstown’s best pie, this town knows how to show you a good time. You can go full send, full chill, or mix a bit of both – this day is yours.

What to see

Bennett’s Bluff Viewpoint

This little roadside lookout punches way above its weight. It’s only a 20-minute drive from town on the road to Glenorchy, and the views over Lake Wakatipu are unreal. Quick stop, big impact.

Bob’s Cove Track

If you want a walk without committing to a hike, Bob’s Cove is the one. Just 15 minutes from Queenstown, it’s an easy trail through forest and down to the clearest blue water you’ve ever seen. Pack snacks and take a dip if it’s hot.

Shotover Jet

If you’re here for the thrill, this is it. High-speed spins through a narrow canyon with water blasting either side of you. You WILL scream (even if you’re trying to play it cool).

Driftaway Hot Tubs

Absolute post-adventure bliss. Driftaway’s private tubs come with lakeside views and full zen energy. We booked a session here right after a jet boat ride and it was perfection.

Queenstown Gardens

Need a reset? Wander the lakefront into the gardens. Peaceful AF, great for a slow stroll, or chuck a frisbee around if you’re feeling active. Great little escape from the buzz of town.

Onsen Hot Pools

This one’s a bit of a Queenstown icon. Wooden tubs built into the cliff, overlooking the river, private rooms and a retractable roof if the stars are out. Book in advance – it’s no secret, but it’s totally worth it.

Wine Tasting in Gibbston Valley

A short drive out of town gets you into wine country real quick. Think boutique vineyards, epic Pinot Noir, and tasting rooms that are way more chill than you expect. A solid option if you’re skipping the adrenaline and going full vino.

Glenorchy (Optional Day Trip)

If you’ve got the time (or wanna save it for tomorrow), Glenorchy is a must. It’s a 45-minute drive one-way, and the views along Lake Wakatipu are next level. Cute as town at the end, with short walks, cafes and LOTR film spots everywhere. If you want to end your trip on a high, this is the place.

Ice Bar Queenstown

Okay, it’s touristy. But it’s also ridiculously fun. You’re sipping cocktails from an ice glass, in a jacket that makes you look like you’re on an Arctic expedition, surrounded by frozen everything. A great pre-dinner warm-up (weirdly enough).

Where to eat

Fergbaker

Right next to the iconic Fergburger – but way less of a queue and honestly, just as good. European-style breads, loaded pies, flaky pastries, and the Boston cream donut? Unmissable. We grabbed extras for the van the next day and no regrets.

Balls and Bangles

Full send on the sweet and savoury here. Donuts that look like they were made for TikTok (but actually taste amazing), loaded bagels, and top-tier coffee. Super clean, always friendly, and a proper crowd-pleaser.

Canyon Brewing

This one’s for the beer lovers. You’re sipping cold brews with a full mountain view while jet boats fly past on the river below. Solid pub-style food, chill vibe, and a wicked location just out of the main drag.

Atlas Beer Café

Right on the water, right in town, and super relaxed. This is one of those places locals love, great beer list, proper feeds, and yep, you can bring your dog if you’ve got a furry mate with you.

Where to stay

Same set-up as last night – no need to move if you’re already settled in.

• LYLO Hostel / Absoloot / Adventure Hostel – top picks for social vibes
• Driftaway – treat-yourself mode with lakeside hot tubs
• Queenstown Top 10 Holiday Park – reliable, close, and comfy
• St Moritz / Rendezvous Heritage – for the luxe hotel feel

That’s a wrap on Queenstown. Whether you jumped off something high, soaked in a hot tub, or just worked your way through every carb in town, you’ve earned it. If you’re not quite done yet, keep tomorrow open for that Glenorchy mission – it’s a hell of a way to sign off.

Is the Christchurch to Queenstown Roadie Worth It?

Without a doubt.

This South Island roadie is all killer, no filler. You’ll roll past glacial lakes, alpine passes, gold rush towns, and buzzin’ adventure hubs, all in one trip. From stargazing at Lake Tekapo to soaking in the views at Lindis Pass to smashing burgers in Queenstown… this one’s an absolute dream for camper travel.

It’s scenic AF, packed with stops that don’t feel touristy, and gives you freedom on four wheels. The views? Out of this world.

How Long Does It Take to Drive from Christchurch to Queenstown?

📏 Total distance: ~750–800km
🕒 Drive time (no stops): ~10–11 hours

But let’s be real, that’s not how we roll.

We say: give it at least 6–7 days (more if you can!).

This gives you time to:

• Smash a pie at Fairlie 🥧
• Wander under Aoraki/Mount Cook
• Sip wine at a lakeside vineyard in Wanaka
• Hit the adventure switch in Queenstown

Stretch it to 10 days if you’re a hike lover, wine drinker, or sunset chaser.

Can You Drive It in 2–3 Days?

Technically, yep.

But you’ll be blitzing past all the good stuff.

This roadie isn’t about rushing, it’s about road-trippin’ properly:

• Chill coffees in small towns
• Slow drives with epic views
• Camper nights under the stars

Trust us, take your sweet time and make it memorable.

What’s the Best Time of Year to Go?

This trip is a year-round winner, but here’s the seasonal lowdown:

• Summer (Dec–Feb): Hot days, busy towns – book your camper early!
• Autumn (Mar–May): Cool mornings, golden leaves = Lindis Pass goals 🍂
• Winter (Jun–Aug): Snow-capped peaks, crisp air, pack thermals
• Spring (Sept–Nov): Waterfalls, flowers, and way fewer crowds
  

✅ RatPack Tip: Shoulder season (March–May or Sept–Nov) = best balance of weather + freedom

What’s the Weather Like?

Typical South Island: 4 seasons in a day is not just a saying — it’s a lifestyle.

• Sunny and warm one minute
• Cold wind and clouds the next
• Nights in Mount Cook = chilly, even in summer
• Morning frosts and icy roads? Yep, especially on the Crown Range or Lindis Pass
  

👉 Pack layers: puffer, thermals, a proper waterproof jacket – and don’t forget your beanie
👉 Winter RatPack Tip: Ask your camper provider about snow chains (they’ll show you how to use them too)
👉 Always check the NZTA Journey Planner before you hit the road, especially during winter or spring

Should I Rent a Camper, Car, or 4WD?

We wouldn’t be Rat Pack if we didn’t say camper all the way 🚌💨

Here’s why:

• You can freedom camp or hit scenic holiday parks
• Wake up next to a lake or mountain view every day
• Kitchen, bed and wheels all in one = super easy
  

Unless you’re planning full off-grid alpine missions (which this route doesn’t require), you do not need a 4WD.

What Should I Pack?

Here’s your RatPack-approved roadie packing list:

• ✅ Reusable water bottles (fill up at every stop)
• ✅ Sunnies, SPF, hat, and warm layers
• ✅ Hiking shoes + comfy flip-flops
• ✅ Swimwear (Tekapo springs, Wanaka lake dips)
• ✅ Headlamp (for those stargazing sessions)
• ✅ Road trip playlist 🎶
• ✅ Snacks. Lots of snacks.
• ✅ Offline maps (CamperMate / Maps.me – don’t rely on signal in the mountains)
• ✅ Power bank / charger — keep your phone juiced
  

Is It Safe to Drive?

Absolutely – roads are well-paved and easy to follow. Just:

• Take it slow over the Crown Range
• Watch for icy patches in winter
• Don’t drive tired – those views are distracting 😉
• Plan fuel stops around Tekapo / Twizel / Wanaka
  

✅ RatPack Tip: Always check the weather and road closures on NZTA’s Journey Planner if you’re travelling in winter or spring.

Is This Road Trip Good for Families?

Yep, it’s a top option for adventurous families or chill roadtrippers.
There are:

• Easy short walks
• Lakeside picnic spots
• Hot pools
• Wildlife + stargazing = kid pleasers
  

Just make sure you plan toilet stops and bring some games or movies for the camper – Queenstown will keep them entertained, that’s for sure.

From the glacier-fed lakes of Tekapo to the big adventure energy of Queenstown, this roadie is a proper South Island stunner. And the best way to do it? In a camper, with the RatPack crew backing ya every step of the way.

We’ll help you lock in the right wheels for your vibe – budget, comfy, boujee or somewhere in between. No faff, no fluff, just a van that suits you and a trip that hits different.

So if you’re ready for sunrise hikes, alpine air, lakeside chill and roadside pies that change lives, hit us up.

We’ll get you sorted with the best price, the best route, and all the tips to make your New Zealand roadie the one you’ll be buzzing about for years.

Let’s make it a ripper. Yeeeeeeew!