New Zealand Itinerary 3 Weeks Self Drive: the Ultimate Route
In December 2023, we embarked on an unforgettable journey through New Zealand, exploring its breathtaking landscapes with a rental car and a tent. Starting from the stunning South Island and concluding in vibrant Auckland on the North Island, our New Zealand itinerary (3 weeks self drive) was packed with incredible experiences out in nature!
The natural beauty of New Zealand surprised us at every turn! Below, we’ve outlined our complete self-drive itinerary, including must-see stops, cozy accommodations, and our own Google Maps travel guide New Zealand.
A rental car for this route through New Zealand is absolutely necessary! We always rent a car through Sunnycars, as they always provide an all-in price without extra hidden fees.
Day 1-2: Traveling to New Zealand
The first days of your trip are all about getting to this magical destination. Depending on where you’re flying from, the journey may be long, so plan to rest after arrival. We flew from Australia and landed in Queenstown, the gateway to the South Island.
Tip: Book your plane tickets early for the best prices and pick up your rental car immediately upon arrival to save time. For flights, we often use Skyscanner to compare prices.
Day 3: Exploring Queenstown New Zealand
Activities: Exploring around Queenstown
Accommodation: Pinewood Lodge
After shaking off the jetlag, we explored Queenstown, often called the adventure capital of New Zealand. Instead of taking the Skyline gondola, we hiked up to the viewpoint. The panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountains were well worth the effort. This hike is a great introduction to the stunning scenery you’ll encounter throughout New Zealand.
Day 4-6: Self Drive to Milford Sound
Distance: 600 km (return)
Activities: Milford Sound cruise (1)
Accommodation: Cascade Creek Campsite (DOC); Pinewood Lodge when returning to Queenstown
The real road trip began as we set out on the scenic drive to Milford Sound. This fjord, carved by glaciers over millions of years, is one of the most iconic destinations in New Zealand. Although very touristic, we think you may not skip this beautiful fjord! Along the way, we stopped at Te Anau, a charming lakeside town, before continuing on winding roads with jaw-dropping views.
At Milford Sound, we took a 2-hour cruise with Mitre Peak Cruises and were lucky to spot playful dolphins. On the return drive, we made time to stop and admire the scenery, including waterfalls and lush rainforests.
Did you know? Milford Sound was named after Milford Haven in Wales by a sealer named John Grono in the early 19th century.
Tip: Do you have more time than 3 weeks for your itinerary New Zealand? Plan more days in this area, because there’re a lot of dayhikes you can make!
Day 7: Drive from Queenstown to Wanaka
Distance: 100 km
Activities: Roy’s Peak hike (2)
Accommodation: Adventure Hostel Wanaka
A short drive brought us to Wanaka, a picturesque town by a serene lake. We tackled the famous Roy’s Peak Hike, a must-do for stunning views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps. Even during the day, the views are incredible, so don’t worry if you miss sunrise or sunset. Parking was quite easy at the start of the hike. The hostel in Wanaka was really clean and tidy. We really liked this accommodation.
Day 8: Wanaka to Lake Paringa (west coast)
Distance: 200 km
Activities: Lake Wanaka (3), Monroe beach (4)
Accommodation: Lake Paringa campsite (DOC)
Driving along State Highway 6, we passed the shimmering waters of Lake Hawea and Lake Wanaka. Don’t miss the chance to stretch your legs at Monro Beach, where you might even spot penguins if you’re lucky!
Day 9: From lake Paringa to Ruatapu
Distance: 200 km
Activities: Alex Knob trail (5)
Accommodation: Lake Mahinapua campsite (DOC)
There are various activities you can do in this area, depending on your budget. You can take a helicopter flight over the glaciers or take a walk to one of the peaks. We did the latter, because the weather wasn’t good enough for a helicopter flight. Not to forget your extreme budget needed for these kinds of activities! We hiked to the top of Alex Knob in a few hours. Along the way you can look towards the Franz Josef glacier, if you are lucky with the weather. Parking was for free, but keep in mind that spots are limited here!
Day 10: Over Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch
Distance: 250 km
Activities: Arthur’s Pass (6)
Accommodation: The Bealey Quarter Christchurch
Driving through Arthur’s Pass was a highlight of our trip. This historic route has been used since the Maori traversed it to trade greenstone. Along the way, we stopped at Castle Hill, a quirky area with massive limestone boulders. Christchurch itself is worth a quick visit, but we preferred the vibe of Queenstown to be honest!
Day 11: Banks Peninsula itinerary
Distance: 150 km
Activities: Banks Peninsula (7)
Accommodation: The Bealey Quarter Christchurch
An hour’s drive from Christchurch is Banks Peninsula, a peninsula that was created by a volcanic eruption. In the picturesque Akaroa you will find a free museum where you can learn more about the history of this peninsula. There are also a number of beautiful roads that cross Banks Penisula, so we definitely recommend adding this day trip to your 3 week self drive itinerary New Zealand!
Day 12: Last Day Southern Island New Zealand
Distance: 350 km
Activities: Lewis Pass (8)
Accommodation: Teetotal campsite (DOC)
Driving through the Lewis Pass offered the last incredible views on the stunning landscapes of the southern island! It was the last campsite stop on southern island. The remaining days of our 3 week self drive itinerary are on the northern island of New Zealand.
Day 13: Ferry to Northern Island, Wellington
Distance: 200 km
Activities: Wellington
Accommodation: Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers Wellington
The harbor in Picton is easy to find and in our travel time it wasn’t busy at all. We booked our ticket in advance and were able to show a barcode on our phone. We chose Bluebridge, but there is also the option for Interislander. Check-in was quick. The crossing takes a while and we mainly stood on deck to admire the beautiful nature of the Queen Charlotte Sound. Once sailing across Cook Strait, the sea started to get a little rougher. In the evening there is still time to visit Wellington. Parking was free only overnight, as we stayed in the middle of Wellington.
Day 14+15: Tongariro National Park
Distance: 350 km
Activities: Tongariro crossing (9)
Accommodation: Waikoko Valley campsite (DOC)
If you arrived in Wellington later last night, there may still be time to walk through the town in the morning. We drove to a viewpoint from which you can look out over almost the entire city. Furthermore, the first day mainly consists of driving towards Tongariro National Park.
Tongariro National Park is home to active volcanoes and otherworldly landscapes. We hiked the largerst part of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, one of New Zealand’s most famous trails. If you want to know more, don’t forget to read our article about how to do the Tongariro Hike for free!
Tip: Do you have more time than 3 weeks for your itinerary New Zealand? Plan more days in this area, because the hike is very weather dependent!
Day 16: Hot Pools at Waikite Valley
Distance: 150 km
Activities: Waikite Valley hotpools (10)
Accommodation: Waikite Valley Hot Pools Campsite
After the tough hike, we relaxed in the geothermal hot pools at Waikite Valley. The naturally heated water was the perfect way to recharge before continuing our adventure. The water comes directly from the source in the area. The closer you are to the source, the warmer the water becomes. Naturally, they have come up with a clever way to let the water cool down a bit before it ends up in the hotpools. There is a lot more to see in the area about geothermal activity!
Tip: make sure you stay at the campsite directly, as entrance to the Hot Pools is included in the price of the campsite!
Day 17+18: Drive to Coromandel Peninsula
Distance: 200 km
Activities: Whangamata beach (11), drive Coromandel route (12)
Accommodation: Shag Stream campsite (DOC)
The Coromandel Peninsula surprised us with its golden beaches and warm climate. This region is ideal for slowing down and soaking up the beauty of New Zealand. We really liked Whangamata beach.
Day 19+20: Last days of Itinerary in Auckland
Distance: 200 km
Activities: Exploring Auckland
Accommodation: Ascotia off Queen Auckland
We wrapped up our trip in Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city. While we didn’t spend much time here, it’s worth a visit to enjoy its harbor views and vibrant atmosphere.
Day 21: Heading back Home
After three incredible weeks, our trip to New Zealand came to an end. We hope our detailed New Zealand itinerary (3 weeks self drive) inspires you to plan your own adventure! Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife, or simply enjoying jaw-dropping scenery, New Zealand won’t let you down for sure!
