South Island Nature Trail

This 10-day South Island Nature Trail self-drive itinerary explores New Zealand’s wild and pristine southern landscapes. Beginning in Christchurch, it winds through the scenic Canterbury Plains to Dunedin, home to rare penguins and Royal Albatross. Travel the wild Catlins coast to Invercargill, then ferry to untouched Stewart Island, a haven for native birdlife. Cruise Doubtful Sound’s dramatic fjords, alive with dolphins and seals. Continue through spectacular alpine scenery to Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital. With boutique accommodation, rich wildlife encounters, and stunning natural beauty, this journey offers a perfect blend of soft adventure and relaxation in some of the country’s most remote regions.

Contact Us

Example Itinerary

  • 01

    Christchurch

    DAY 1

    Meet and greet service with rental car pickup at Christchurch Airport.

  • 02

    Christchurch - Dunedin (363km)

    DAY 2

    Straight flat roads lead through to the patchwork fields of the Canterbury Plains before you travel over a network of braided rivers with the Southern Alps as a scenic backdrop.

  • 03

    Dunedin

    DAY 3

    Spend today at leisure in Dunedin. Dunedin and Coastal Otago is often referred to as the eco-capital of New Zealand. It is a region of natural beauty overlaid with a fascinating cultural history. On Dunedin’s doorstep you will find incredible wildlife including the world’s rarest penguins and the world’s only mainland breeding colony of Royal Albatross.

  • 04

    Dunedin - Invercargill (205km)

    DAY 4

    Discover the wild Catlins with its rich wildlife, sea-carved rocks, hidden coves and sweeping beaches. Then head to Invercargill, New Zealand’s southernmost city, known for its wide streets, cultural attractions, nature reserves, and vibrant cafés, restaurants, and bars—all set within a charming, easily navigable city layout.

  • 05

    Invercargill – Bluff (28 km) – Stewart Island

    DAY 5

    Travel south to Bluff and take the ferry to Stewart Island, a haven for native and endangered birds. Largely untouched, the island teems with wildlife. Locals share their gardens with Kākā and Weka, whose calls fill the air on summer evenings in the peaceful Oban Township.

  • 06

    Stewart Island

    DAY 6

    Today you may like to do a half day guided tour taking you to Ulva Island, an open bird sanctuary. Covered in unspoilt forest, the island is home to birds including the native Tui, Kaka, Rifleman and Fantail, as well as the endangered South Island Saddleback.

  • 07

    Stewart Island – Bluff – Te Anau (180 km)

    DAY 7

    This morning catch the ferry back to the mainland and collect your rental car. Travel to Te Anau is via the Southern Scenic Route, a drive featuring a myriad of landscapes shaped by natural processes in New Zealand’s young but varied geological history

  • 08

    Te Anau – Manapouri (22 km) – Doubtful Sound

    DAY 8

    Today’s Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise explores New Zealand’s pristine fiord wilderness. Enjoy stunning waterfalls, rainforest, and mountains, home to dolphins, seals, and penguins. Expert guides share insights on nature and history. Kayaking and tender explorations are available. In winter, a day cruise and extra night in Te Anau replace the overnight trip.

  • 09

    Doubtful Sound – Manapouri – Queenstown (172 km)

    DAY 9

    Today takes you on a memorable trip through some of the most magnificent scenery in New Zealand. Rivers and mountains provide endless photo opportunities enroute to New Zealand’s adventure capital, Queenstown.

  • 10

    Queenstown

    DAY 10

    Tour concludes with the return of your rental car to Queenstown city or airport depot.

Itinerary Excursions:

Compact car hire

Boutique accommodation

Ferry transfers to/from Stewart Island

Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise

Soft adventure activities

Request a consultation Call us Brochure

Departure Dates: Year Round

Contact Us
*Dates will depend on availability

Speak to our New Zealand experts

Paul Webster

Paul

Australia & New Zealand Expert

 Tracey Bates

Tracey

Australia & New Zealand Expert

 Jenny Taylor-Page

Jenny

Australia & New Zealand Expert
Request a consultation Call us

Find out more about New Zealand

Explore New Zealand