Explore New Zealand's South Island
11-Day Self-Drive Itinerary
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Start & Finish in Nelson | Powered by Zoom Rental Cars
Embark on an unforgettable journey through New Zealand’s South Island with this 11-day self-drive loop. Starting and ending in Nelson, this itinerary offers a blend of coastal beauty, alpine adventures, and cultural experiences. With the freedom of a rental car from Zoom Rental Cars, explore at your own pace and discover the diverse landscapes and attractions that make this region so captivating.
Itinerary Overview – Self-Drive Loop
Get Ready to Tick off Your Bucket
rainbow ski field
Abel tasman national park
Golden Bay area
Kaiteriteri beach
St Arnaud village
Day 1
Arrive in Nelson
Highlights: Pick up your rental vehicle from Zoom Rental Cars Nelson Airport or our office. Explore Tahunanui Beach, the Centre of New Zealand Walk, or local galleries.
Day 2
Nelson Lakes & Rainbow Ski Area (Approx. 1.5 hrs to St. Arnaud)
Highlights: Drive to St. Arnaud and explore Nelson Lakes National Park, including Lake Rotoiti and Lake Rotoroa. In winter, enjoy skiing or snowboarding at Rainbow Ski Area; in summer, hike and take in stunning alpine views.
Day 3
Abel Tasman National Park (1 hr drive)
Highlights: Take a day trip to Kaiteriteri or Marahau. Enjoy hiking, kayaking, or water taxi rides in Abel Tasman National Park.
Day 4
Nelson to Franz Josef Glacier (7 hrs)
Highlights: Travel via Buller Gorge, Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, and the West Coast. Arrive in Franz Josef, a vibrant alpine village near the glacier.
Day 5
Franz Josef Activities
Highlights: Book a heli-hike, glacier walk, or visit Lake Matheson. Unwind at the Glacier Hot Pools in the evening.
Day 6
Franz Josef to Queenstown (6 hrs)
Highlights: Scenic drive through Haast Pass, stopping at Blue Pools and waterfalls. Reach Queenstown, New Zealand’s adventure capital.
Day 7
Queenstown
Highlights: Try jet boating, bungy jumping, or the Skyline Gondola & Luge. Relax by the lakefront and enjoy local cuisine.
Day 8
Milford Sound Day Trip
Highlights: Drive to Milford Sound via Te Anau (2 hrs from Queenstown). Take a cruise through the fjords. Return to Queenstown or overnight in Te Anau.
Day 9
Queenstown to Lake Tekapo (3.5 hrs)
Highlights: Drive the scenic Lindis Pass. Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd, relax in Tekapo Hot Springs, and stargaze in the Dark Sky Reserve.
Day 10
Tekapo to Kaikoura or Blenheim (6–7 hrs)
Highlights: Drive north via Christchurch. Choose between Kaikoura for whale watching and coastal walks, or Blenheim for vineyard tours and wine tasting in Marlborough.
Day 11
Return to Nelson (2–3 hrs)
Highlights: Enjoy a scenic final drive via Wairau Valley or Queen Charlotte Drive. Return your vehicle to Zoom Rental Cars Nelson and enjoy your final evening in the city.
Why Choose Zoom Rental Cars
for Your South Island Adventure?
Zoom Rental Cars makes self-drive travel easy and enjoyable. Here’s why renting with us is the best choice:
Freedom to explore: Stop anywhere for photos, short walks, or spontaneous detours.
Access off-the-beaten-path destinations: Reach remote trails, lookouts, and beaches.
Comfort & flexibility: Travel on your own schedule, with your music and your space.
Budget-friendly: Great value for couples, families, and groups.
No one-way fees: Start and finish in Nelson with a convenient round trip.
Reliable support: Local service, 24/7 roadside assistance, and clean, well-maintained vehicles.
Start Your Journey with
Zoom Rental Cars Nelson
Whether you need a compact hatchback, a rugged SUV, or a spacious family vehicle, Zoom Rental Cars has the perfect ride for your South Island loop.
Book with confidence and hit the road today!