Fiordland National Park, New Zealand - 10 Days Itinerary

Camper Van Pickup & Supplies

Pick up your camper van in Nelson and stock up on groceries and essentials for your road trip.

Get acquainted with your vehicle.

Ensure you understand all features of your camper van before departing. Check the weather for your route.

Drive to Punakaiki

Embark on your scenic drive south along the stunning West Coast of the South Island, heading towards Punakaiki. Enjoy the coastal views and lush native bush.

The roads are generally good but can be winding in places. Keep an eye out for interesting stops.

Explore Punakaiki Pancake Rocks

Visit the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Punakaiki.

Watch the sea surge through blowholes and explore the unique limestone formations.

Best experienced at high tide for the blowholes. Check tide times locally.

Dinner & Relax

Enjoy dinner at a local eatery or cook a meal in your camper van at the campground.

Drive to Franz Josef Glacier

Continue your journey south along the stunning West Coast to the glacier region.

The drive offers incredible views of temperate rainforest and rugged coastline.

Keep an eye on fuel levels as towns can be spread out.

Lunch in Franz Josef

Grab lunch in Franz Josef village before heading out to explore the glacier.

Franz Josef Glacier Valley Walk

Take a self-guided walk through the glacier valley to a viewpoint of the Franz Josef Glacier.

Marvel at the ice formations from a safe distance.

Wear sturdy footwear and bring rain gear, as weather can change quickly. Follow all safety signs.

Optional Glacier Scenic Flight

For an unforgettable experience, consider a scenic helicopter flight over Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. (Requires advance booking).

Weather dependent. Prices are significant, so check if it fits your budget. Often includes snow landing.

Drive through Haast Pass

Embark on another incredibly scenic drive through Haast Pass, a mountain pass that traverses the Southern Alps.

Stop at various waterfalls and viewpoints like Fantail Falls and Thunder Creek Falls.

There are limited services along Haast Pass, so ensure your camper van is ready and you have snacks/drinks.

Lunch Stop at Haast

Enjoy a simple lunch stop in Haast township before continuing your journey.

Arrive in Wanaka

Arrive in the picturesque town of Wanaka, nestled beside Lake Wanaka with stunning mountain backdrops.

Set up your camper van at the holiday park.

Wanaka offers a relaxed vibe with plenty of cafes and shops.

Puzzling World Visit

Challenge your mind and perception at Puzzling World, a unique attraction with a maze, illusion rooms, and quirky photo opportunities.

A fun stop for all ages, especially if you're looking for something interactive.

Drive to Te Anau

Embark on the journey from Wanaka to Te Anau, the picturesque gateway to Fiordland National Park.

The drive takes you through diverse landscapes.

Consider a quick photo stop at Devil's Staircase Lookout for views of Lake Wakatipu.

Lunch in Te Anau

Enjoy lunch in Te Anau and get acquainted with the town before your afternoon activity.

Fiordland Jet Boat Experience

Join the fun on a unique Jet boat experience in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park.

From iconic 360-degree spins to scenic surroundings, it's an exhilarating way to see the area.

Remember to dress warmly as it can get chilly on the water.

Lake Te Anau Foreshore Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beautiful Lake Te Anau foreshore, taking in the serene views and mountain backdrop.

Great opportunity for photos, especially in the late afternoon light.

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Glencoe and Loch Shiel 1 Day Tour - Edinburgh

Embark on a full-day guided coach and cruise tour to Milford Sound.

This option is highly recommended for campervan users due to the challenging road and limited parking in Milford Sound. The tour includes scenic stops and a cruise through the majestic fiord.

Book well in advance, especially during peak season. Bring insect repellent for sandflies and warm layers. Lunch is often included or available for purchase on the cruise.

Relax & Dinner

After a long day exploring Milford Sound, enjoy a relaxing evening and dinner back at your campervan park in Te Anau.

Scenic Drive to Milford Sound

Embark on one of the world's most scenic drives from Te Anau to Milford Sound.

Allow plenty of time for photo stops at Mirror Lakes, The Chasm, and Homer Tunnel.

Ensure your camper van has enough fuel. Watch for kea birds at the Homer Tunnel.

Milford Sound Scenic Cruise

Experience the majestic beauty of Milford Sound on a scenic cruise, sailing past towering cliffs, waterfalls, and potentially spotting seals, penguins, and dolphins.

Book your cruise in advance, especially during peak season. Dress warmly, even in summer.

Bowen Falls Walk

Take a short walk to the base of Bowen Falls for spectacular views of the powerful waterfall cascading into the sound.

Accessible by a short ferry ride from the terminal (often included with cruises or as a separate add-on).

Return to Te Anau Area & Campsite Setup

Drive back towards Te Anau after your Milford Sound experience to settle into a camper van park for the night.

Consider Top 10 Holiday Park or Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites in the area. Book ahead if possible.

Fiordland Jet Boat Experience

Experience the thrill of a jet boat ride on the Waiau River, famed for its Lord of the Rings filming locations, with 360-degree spins and stunning scenery.

Hold on tight! Wear comfortable clothing and bring sunglasses.

Drive to Queenstown

Enjoy the scenic drive from Te Anau to Queenstown, passing through picturesque landscapes.

Stop for lunch at a scenic spot along the way or grab a bite upon arrival in Queenstown.

Camper Van Park Check-in

Arrive in Queenstown and check into your chosen camper van park.

Settle in and prepare for exploring the town.

Popular options include Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park or Top 10 Holiday Park. Book well in advance, especially for May.

Skyline Gondola & Luge

Take the iconic Skyline Gondola up Bob's Peak for panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains.

Opt for a thrilling Luge ride down.

Sunset views from the top are spectacular. Photo opportunities galore!

Dinner in Queenstown

Enjoy dinner at one of Queenstown's many fantastic restaurants.

Options range from gourmet burgers to fine dining.

Fergburger is a local legend, expect a queue! Or try waterfront dining.

Kawarau Bridge Bungee Jump

For the adrenaline seekers, experience the ultimate thrill of a bungee jump at the world-famous Kawarau Bridge, the home of bungee jumping.

Even if you don't jump, it's a great spot to watch others take the plunge! Book well in advance.

Shotover Jet Boat Ride

Experience the iconic Shotover Jet, racing through the narrow canyons of the Shotover River with thrilling maneuvers and high speeds.

A must-do Queenstown experience! Prepare to get wet.

Lake Wakatipu Stroll & Relax

After the morning's adventures, enjoy a relaxing stroll along the picturesque shores of Lake Wakatipu, soak in the views, or grab a coffee.

Watch the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship pass by.

Leisure & Shopping

Explore Queenstown's charming town center, browse local shops for souvenirs, or relax at your camper van park.

Queenstown offers a variety of unique boutiques and art galleries.

Queenstown Hill Walk

Embark on a refreshing morning hike up Queenstown Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the town, lake, and mountains, a perfect farewell to Queenstown.

Relatively easy walk, wear comfortable shoes. Great photo opportunity.

Scenic Drive to Hanmer Springs

Begin your journey north from Queenstown to Hanmer Springs.

This long but incredibly scenic drive will take you through diverse landscapes, including Lake Wanaka and the Lindis Pass.

Allow plenty of time for stops, including lunch in a town like Omarama or Tekapo. Keep an eye on fuel levels.

Arrive in Hanmer Springs & Setup

Arrive in the alpine village of Hanmer Springs and set up your camper van at a local park, ready for relaxation.

Hanmer Springs TOP 10 Holiday Park is a popular choice, conveniently located near the thermal pools.

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa

Indulge in a relaxing morning at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa, with a variety of mineral-rich pools, hydrotherapy, and a serene atmosphere.

Perfect way to unwind after your road trip adventures. Towels are available for hire.

Hanmer Forest Park Walk

Enjoy a gentle stroll or a longer hike through the beautiful Hanmer Forest Park, offering various trails for all fitness levels.

Great opportunity for bird watching and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Farewell Lunch in Hanmer

Enjoy a final lunch in Hanmer Springs, perhaps at a charming local cafe, before preparing for your onward journey.

Plenty of options for a casual meal.

Camper Van Pack-up & Departure

Pack up your camper van, dispose of waste, and prepare for your departure from Hanmer Springs, concluding this segment of your New Zealand adventure.

Ensure all waste is correctly sorted and disposed of at the camper van park facilities.