{"id":33979,"date":"2019-02-25T06:00:30","date_gmt":"2019-02-25T14:00:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/?p=33979"},"modified":"2025-08-15T21:12:51","modified_gmt":"2025-08-16T04:12:51","slug":"new-zealand-south-island-road-trip","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wearetravelgirls.com\/new-zealand-south-island-road-trip\/","title":{"rendered":"AN EXTENSIVE GUIDE TO ROAD TRIPPING NEW ZEALAND’S SOUTH ISLAND"},"content":{"rendered":"

I went on a road trip in New Zealand with a friend a couple years ago and had an amazing time. We started in Christchurch, spent the first three weeks on the South Island and the last week exploring the North Island. It was my first time in New Zealand and also my first road trip. When we reached our campground near Lake Tekapo on the first evening, I knew: this had to be the most beautiful country on Earth!<\/p>\n

\"Guide<\/p>\n

And this was only the beginning! The very next day I found myself crying at the foot of the Tasman Glacier Lake (yes, the beauty of Mother Earth gets me all emotional). That is also how it continued the following weeks: driving, hiking, crying, repeat.<\/p>\n

I wrote this article for all you gals out there dreaming of a road trip in Middle-earth, providing you with a lot of crucial and helpful information to plan your trip in New Zealand, specifically the South Island.<\/p>\n

\"Guide<\/p>\n

BEFORE YOU GO<\/h3>\n

WHEN TO GO TO NEW ZEALAND<\/h4>\n

Most people recommend traveling to New Zealand in the summer which is December to February. However, since that’s when most people go, camper van prices are going to be at their peak (if there are still some available that is \u2013 so book early if you insist on going during high season!).<\/p>\n

However, if you want to escape the crowds, I recommend going during springtime between September and November<\/strong>. Camper vans are cheaper, the roads are empty and camping sites have plenty of free space. On top of that, it’s waterfall season, nature is in full bloom and your chances of seeing baby wildlife are the highest!<\/p>\n

\"Guide<\/p>\n

WHAT TO PACK FOR A SOUTH ISLAND ROAD TRIP<\/h4>\n

We traveled the South Island from mid-October until mid-November and came prepared for a mixture of weather. During springtime, temperatures are generally cool to moderate and the nights are cold. We experienced mostly bright and sunny days and some rain in mountainous areas (e.g. Milford Sound, Franz Josef).<\/p>\n

Here’s a list of must-have items:<\/p>\n