Queenstown 8-Day Trip Itinerary

Interislander Ferry to Picton

Board the Interislander ferry from Wellington to Picton, enjoying the scenic Marlborough Sounds during the crossing.

Book your vehicle and passenger tickets in advance.

Arrive at least 1 hour before departure. There are cafes and viewing decks on board. Remember, it's winter so dress warmly for outdoor viewing.

Drive Picton to Kaikoura

After disembarking in Picton, begin your scenic drive south along State Highway 1 to Kaikoura.

The road offers stunning coastal views.

The road can be winding in places. There are several viewpoints along the way to stop for photos.

Lunch in Kaikoura

Enjoy fresh seafood for lunch in Kaikoura, famous for its crayfish and other local catches.

Look for local fish and chip shops or cafes along the waterfront.

Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway

Take a leisurely walk along a section of the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway.

Look out for the resident seal colony.

Maintain a safe distance from seals, especially during pupping season. The views of the mountains and ocean are fantastic for photography.

Dinner in Kaikoura

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant in Kaikoura.

Many restaurants offer fresh seafood options.

Drive Kaikoura to Christchurch

Continue your journey south from Kaikoura to Christchurch.

The route offers a mix of coastal and rural scenery.

Take breaks as needed. This drive is relatively straightforward.

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Explore the beautiful Christchurch Botanic Gardens, a serene oasis in the city center.

Perfect for a leisurely walk and photography.

Entry is free. There's a café on-site if you'd like a snack or coffee. The gardens are especially beautiful in winter with crisp air.

Lunch in Christchurch

Enjoy lunch at one of Christchurch's many cafes or restaurants, perhaps near the city centre or Riverside Market.

Riverside Market offers a great selection of food stalls.

Explore Re:START Mall & City Centre

Wander through the evolving Christchurch city centre, observing the post-earthquake rebuild and innovative architecture. Visit the 'Cardboard Cathedral'.

The city is constantly changing, offering a blend of historic charm and modern design. Great for architectural photography.

Dinner in Christchurch

Indulge in a delicious dinner experience in Christchurch, which boasts a vibrant culinary scene.

Consider booking a table for popular restaurants, especially on a Friday night.

Drive Christchurch to Geraldine

Begin your scenic drive from Christchurch towards the Mackenzie Country.

Stop in the charming town of Geraldine.

Geraldine is a great place for a coffee break and to browse local artisan shops.

Drive to Fairlie & Lunch

Continue to Fairlie and enjoy lunch.

The Fairlie Bakehouse is famous for its pies.

This section of the drive takes you into the heart of the Canterbury region.

Arrive at Lake Tekapo

Arrive at the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo, known for its incredible colours and mountain backdrop.

Church of the Good Shepherd

Visit the iconic Church of the Good Shepherd, a small stone church offering unparalleled views of the lake and mountains, a prime photography spot.

Be respectful of others and the sacred space inside. It's often very popular, especially with photographers.

Scenic Drive to Lake Pukaki

Drive alongside the incredibly blue Lake Pukaki, with majestic views of Aoraki/Mount Cook in the distance (weather permitting). This is a fantastic scenic drive.

Stop at the various viewpoints for photos. The colour of the lake is due to glacier flour.

Dinner in Lake Tekapo

Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants in Lake Tekapo.

The area is also known as a Dark Sky Reserve, so consider stargazing if the sky is clear after dinner!

Drive to Mount Cook Village

Drive along the stunning road to Aoraki/Mount Cook Village, offering increasingly dramatic views of the Southern Alps.

This drive is incredibly scenic and often considered one of the most beautiful in New Zealand. Stop frequently for photos.

Hooker Valley Track Walk

Embark on the iconic Hooker Valley Track, an easy-to-moderate walk that crosses three swing bridges and leads to a glacial lake with icebergs and direct views of Aoraki/Mount Cook.

Wear sturdy shoes and bring layers as conditions can change. Pack water and snacks. This is a highly recommended photography spot.

Lunch in Mount Cook Village

Enjoy a well-deserved lunch at one of the cafes or restaurants in Mount Cook Village after your walk.

Options include the Old Mountaineers' Café or The Hermitage hotel restaurants.

Tasman Glacier View Track

Take a shorter walk to a viewpoint overlooking the Tasman Glacier and its terminal lake, which also often has icebergs.

This track is relatively easy and offers a different perspective of the glaciers and mountains. Another great photo opportunity.

Dinner with Mountain Views

Savor dinner at a restaurant in Aoraki/Mount Cook Village, ideally with views of the surrounding mountains.

Booking is recommended, especially for The Hermitage hotel dining options.

Helicopter Tour with Alpine Snow Landing

Experience the majestic Southern Alps and Mount Cook from above with a helicopter tour, including an unforgettable alpine snow landing.

This offers unparalleled photography opportunities.

Book this experience in advance and confirm weather conditions. It's a truly spectacular way to see the mountains.

Drive to Wanaka via Lindis Pass

Begin your drive towards Wanaka, taking the stunning Lindis Pass.

This alpine pass offers unique, golden tussock landscapes, especially beautiful in winter.

Lindis Pass is a major photo stop. Ensure your car is suitable for winter conditions; chains may be required in heavy snow. Check road conditions before departing.

Lunch in Wanaka

Upon arrival in Wanaka, enjoy lunch at one of the town's many cafes or restaurants.

Wanaka has a relaxed, vibrant atmosphere with diverse dining options.

'That Wanaka Tree' & Lakefront

Visit the famous 'That Wanaka Tree' (a willow tree growing out of the lake), a popular photography subject.

Enjoy a stroll along the lakefront.

Go early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography. Be mindful of others and avoid damaging the tree.

Dinner & Leisure in Wanaka

Relax and enjoy dinner in Wanaka, taking in the serene lake town atmosphere.

Wanaka offers a great selection of local craft beers and wines.

Scenic Drive to Queenstown

Enjoy the picturesque drive from Wanaka to Queenstown, taking in the stunning mountain and lake landscapes as you approach the adventure capital.

The Crown Range Road is the most direct and scenic route, but can be challenging in winter; check road conditions. Alternatively, take the route via Cromwell.

Hotel Check-in

Check into your luxurious accommodation and settle in for your Queenstown stay.

Allow ample time for check-in procedures.

Riverside Lunch

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of Queenstown's many delightful cafes or restaurants near the Shotover River or Lake Wakatipu.

Skyline Queenstown

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

Enjoy a thrilling Luge ride down.

Book tickets in advance, especially during winter. The views are spectacular for photography.

Fine Dining in Queenstown

Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at one of Queenstown's acclaimed restaurants, known for their local produce and stunning ambiance.

Reservations highly recommended, especially for popular establishments.

Photography Tour to Glenorchy

Embark on a half-day guided photography tour from Queenstown to Glenorchy, learning to capture the stunning landscapes of 'Middle-earth' with expert guidance.

This tour combines scenic driving with practical photography tips, perfect for capturing memorable shots. Product Code: 267388P2

Lunch in Glenorchy/Queenstown

Enjoy a late lunch in the charming village of Glenorchy or return to Queenstown for a meal.

Explore Queenstown Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Queenstown Gardens, a peaceful oasis with diverse plant collections, disc golf, and stunning lake views.

Perfect for a relaxing afternoon and some casual photography. Free entry.

AuthenticAs Star Gazing

Join a nightscape portrait photography tour to one of Queenstown's dark sky locations.

Capture stunning images of the night sky and learn unique photography techniques.

Dress warmly as it can be very cold at night, even in summer. This tour focuses on both stargazing and photography.

Helicopter Alpine Snow Landing

Experience an unforgettable helicopter tour with an alpine snow landing, flying high through stunning snowy scenery from Queenstown.

A truly unique adventure and photography opportunity.

Dress warmly. This is an incredible way to see the Southern Alps and a fantastic photographic experience. Product Code: 7500P9

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Grab some last-minute gifts and souvenirs from Queenstown's charming shops, perhaps at Aotea Gifts.

Farewell Queenstown Lunch

Enjoy a final lunch in Queenstown, savoring the vibrant atmosphere before your journey home.

Hotel Checkout & Departure Prep

Check out from your hotel and prepare your car for the start of your drive back towards Wellington.

Ensure you have all your belongings and plan your route for the return journey, likely stopping overnight along the way.