A campervan road trip from Picton to Christchurch is one of the best ways to see the South Island. Take your time as you roll past vineyard-covered hills, rugged coastlines, and wide-open plains – with plenty of time to pull over for fresh seafood, short walks, and maybe even a soak in some soothing thermal pools.  

This New Zealand road trip isn’t about getting from A to B. It’s about taking your time, finding some great spots to park up for the night, and making the most of the ever-changing views from your campervan window. From whale watching in Kaikōura to cruising the countryside in North Canterbury, there’s plenty to see and do along the way. Here’s how to make the most of five days on the road between Picton and Christchurch. 

Travel: 5 days 

Route: Picton → Blenheim → Kaikōura → Hanmer Springs → Arthur’s Pass → Christchurch 

Total travel KM: 650KM 

Best time of year: 

This South Island road trip delivers incredible scenery, wildlife, and experiences no matter the season. Here’s what to expect throughout the year: 

• Autumn (March – May) – Wine & scenic drives 
  Marlborough’s vineyards come alive with the harvest, the landscapes glow with autumn colours, and crisp mountain air makes for perfect road-tripping conditions. 

• Winter (June – August) – Hot pools & wildlife 
  Warm up in Hanmer Springs' thermal pools while the Southern Alps are dusted with snow. This is also peak season for spotting sperm whales in Kaikōura. 

• Spring (September – November) – Hiking & fresh seafood 
  Wildflowers bloom in Arthur’s Pass, hiking trails reopen, and it’s the best time to enjoy fresh Kaikōura crayfish and Marlborough green-lipped mussels. 

• Summer (December – February) – Beaches & outdoor adventures 
  Long daylight hours mean more time for coastal walks, dolphin swims in Kaikōura, and hiking at Castle Hill in warm, sunny weather. 

Highlights:  

• Marlborough wine region – Sample world-class sauvignon blanc and explore scenic vineyards.  

• Kaikōura Coast – Spot whales, seals, and dolphins along this wildlife-rich stretch of coastline.  

• Fresh seafood – Try Kaikōura crayfish, green-lipped mussels, and freshly caught fish.  

• Hanmer Springs – Soak in thermal pools surrounded by alpine scenery.  

• Arthur’s Pass – Drive through dramatic mountain landscapes with hiking trails along the way.  

• Scenic hikes – Explore coastal walks, forest trails, and alpine tracks.  

• Christchurch – Discover a city blending history, street art, and vibrant food markets. 

 

Day 1 – Picton to Kaikōura

Distance: 160 km  

Travel time: 2 hours, 30 mins 

Your road trip kicks off in Picton, a laid-back little town where the South Island welcomes you in style. If you’ve got time, take a wander along the foreshore, grab a coffee, or just soak up the views before hitting the road. 

First stop: Blenheim, right in the heart of Marlborough wine country. This is sauvignon blanc territory, and there’s no better place to sample a glass (or two) than Cloudy Bay or Brancott Estate. Of course, we encourage responsible drinking – never drink and drive. If you don’t have a sober driver, simply pick up a bottle to enjoy later. 

Back on the road, the drive to Kaikōura is all about those ocean views. Keep an eye out for seals lounging on the rocks as you get closer. Once you arrive, swing by the Kaikōura Seal Colony – they’re usually not shy about putting on a show. If you feel like stretching your legs, the Kaikōura Peninsula Walkway has some of the best coastal views around. 

Tonight’s stop is Kaikōura TOP 10 Holiday Park. It’s got everything you need – powered sites, a barbecue area, and even a spa pool if you feel like kicking back after a solid first day on the road. 

Image: Tourism New Zealand

 

Day 2 – Kaikōura to Hanmer Springs

Distance: 130 km 

Travel time: 2 hours 

If you didn’t get out on the water yesterday, start your morning with a Whale Watch Kaikōura tour. This is one of the best places in the world to see sperm whales year-round, along with orcas in summer and humpbacks in winter. Prefer something a little livelier? Dolphin Encounter Kaikōura gives you the chance to swim with wild dusky dolphins – or watch them leap and flip alongside the boat. 

Before hitting the road, grab a bite at a local café or stop by the Kaikōura Museum – it’s a great place to dive into the town’s history, from its rich marine life to its fascinating past. 

From here, it’s a scenic inland drive to Hanmer Springs, a small alpine town known for its hot pools and outdoor activities. Once you arrive, there’s really only one place to go – Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa. With 22 different pools, including private rock pools and an adults-only relaxation area, it’s the perfect spot to soak away the drive. If you’re feeling a bit more energetic, the waterslides and lazy river keep things fun. 

Tonight, park up at Hanmer Springs TOP 10 Holiday Park. With spacious sites, modern facilities, and easy access to town, it’s a great spot to relax before another day on the road. 

 

Day 3 – Hanmer Springs to Arthur’s Pass

Distance: 210 km  

Travel time: 3 hours  

Start your morning with a walk through Hanmer Forest Park, where well-marked trails wind through towering exotic and native trees. If you’re after a short but scenic option, the Conical Hill Walk offers a great panoramic view of Hanmer Springs. 

Heading west, take a break at Maruia Falls, a waterfall that came to life after the 1929 Murchison earthquake reshaped the landscape. The short 10-minute return walk takes you right to the falls, where you can watch the powerful cascade plunge into the river below – a dramatic sight that’s well worth the stop. 

From here, the road climbs into the Southern Alps, leading into Arthur’s Pass National Park. This is where the landscape really puts on a show, with steep gorges, alpine meadows, and beech forests. Keep an eye out for kea, New Zealand’s mischievous alpine parrots, especially around the village. 

For the night, Jackson’s Retreat Alpine Holiday Park is a great spot to park up. Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, it offers covered campervan sites, mountain views, and easy access to nearby walking tracks.

 

Day 4 – Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch (via Castle Hill)

Distance: 150 km 

Travel time: 2 hours 

Today’s drive from Arthur’s Pass to Christchurch is short, but it’s packed with epic scenery and a few must-see stops along the way. 

First up is the Otira Viaduct Lookout. This engineering marvel winds through the mountains, and the lookout point offers sweeping views of the rugged landscape. If the weather’s clear, it’s well worth pulling over to take it all in. 

As you head back toward Christchurch, you’ll come across the Kura Tāwhiti / Castle Hill Conservation Area. Known for its massive limestone rock formations, this spot is a dream for walkers, photographers, and rock climbers. A short track takes you right among the boulders, making it a great place to stretch your legs before the final leg to Christchurch. 

Once you arrive in the city, set up camp at Spencer Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park. It’s a peaceful spot just outside the city, with easy access to the beach and nature walks – perfect for a relaxing final night in your campervan. If you’re after more holiday park options, check our guide to family-friendly campgrounds near Christchurch.  

 

Day 5 – Explore Christchurch

Your road trip wraps up in Christchurch, a city that blends history, green spaces, and a thriving food scene. With a full day to explore, here are a few top picks to make the most of your time. 

Start your morning with a wander through Hagley Park, the city’s largest green space. If you’re up for more, the adjacent Christchurch Botanic Gardens is a peaceful spot to stroll among native and exotic plant collections. You can even hop on a guided punting tour along the Avon River for a relaxing way to take in the scenery. 

For a unique way to see the city, hop aboard the Christchurch Tram. This hop-on, hop-off experience stops at key sights like New Regent Street, a colourful row of heritage buildings filled with boutique shops and cafés, and the Canterbury Museum, which houses fascinating exhibits on New Zealand’s natural and cultural history. 

When hunger strikes, head to Riverside Market. This bustling indoor market is packed with artisan food stalls, cafés, and fresh local produce. Whether you’re after a coffee, a quick snack, or a long lunch, there’s plenty to choose from. 

If you have extra time, take a short drive to Sumner Beach for a walk along the esplanade or check out the quirky rock formations at Cave Rock. For those interested in wildlife, a visit to Willowbank Wildlife Reserve offers the chance to see native species like kiwi up close. 

Looking for more ideas? Check out these guides to top things to do in Christchurch and family-friendly activities. 

 

Ready to explore the South Island?

A campervan road trip from Picton to Christchurch is the perfect way to experience the best of the South Island – coastal wildlife encounters, scenic mountain drives, and plenty of great food along the way. Whether you’re soaking in hot pools, spotting whales off the coast, or exploring rugged alpine landscapes, this five-day itinerary gives you the freedom to enjoy it all. 

Now all that’s left to do is book your Apollo campervan and start planning your trip. The open road is waiting!