Conquering New Zealand’s South Island: The Perfect Vehicle For Your Adventure

When it comes to road tripping, few destinations in the world can compete with New Zealand’s South Island. From the dramatic fjords of Milford Sound to the rugged beauty of the West Coast, this region is packed with jaw-dropping scenery.

Unforgettable landscapes are spread across the South Island with plenty of places that you can vist and endless opportunities available for your adventure.However, to make the most of them, you really need to have the right set of wheels at your disposal.

The car that you choose to drive on this kind of road trip can make or break your experience. Especially if you want to navigate mountain passes or areas that can only be accessed via remote gravel roads.

For this reason, it doesn’t matter if you’re into freedom camping, living it up in luxury lodges, or just want to hit the best scenic drives; it is important to match your vehicle to your chosen travel style. This post will help you figure out what will work best for you.

Why You Need The Right Ride on the South Island

The South Island’s roads are as wild and wonderful as the landscapes themselves. This is a place, after all, where you could be winding through steep alpine passes in the morning and cruising beside a mirror-like lake by afternoon.

Moreover, the weather can turn quickly, and mobile coverage can be patchy at best in remote areas. For these reasons, it’s important to be in a vehicle that matches the terrain and keeps you comfortable, safe and ready for whatever the day throws at you.

In various parts of Te Waipounamu, you will find unsealed roads, while in other areas, they can only be accessed by 4WD. During the winter months, plenty of them will succumb to icy or snowy conditions, so it is important to pick a vehicle that can stand up to the terrain you intend to visit.

One-Way Car Rental: Christchurch to Queenstown

If you want to road trip around the South Island of New Zealand, one of the most popular ways to experience its beauty is through a car rental Christchurch to Queenstown booking. This classic route gives you a taste of everything from the majesty of the Southern Alps and the sparkling turquoise lakes to the beauty of the glacier-fed rivers and charming alpine towns.

The best thing about hiring a vehicle for a one-way rental is that you can maximise your time exploring the region by not having to double back on yourself. In addition, if you tell the car hire company where you would like to go, they will advise you on the best vehicle to reserve.

Vehicle Options for Exploring the South Island

The South Island of New Zealand can be explored in several different ways. So, your particular preference will determine what type of ride would be most suitable.

However, here are some options that are available.

Campervans & Motorhomes

Campervans are a popular choice of vehicle for exploring the region because they give you the freedom to camp in beautiful, remote places. They also come with the basics, such as beds, kitchenettes, sometimes even a toilet, which is great for couples, van-lifers or families who want a self-sufficient experience.

4WD Vehicles

If you fancy heading off the beaten track, you will need a 4WD such as a GMC Canyon AT4X. This type of vehicle will give you access to more rugged and less-travelled routes, especially in places like Skippers Canyon or the backroads around Mount Aspiring.

They are also excellent in handling alpine conditions, and have plenty of storage space for bikes, surfboards, tents and other camping equipment.

Compact Cars & SUVs

If you are on a budget or planning to stick to the main highways, then compact cars or SUVs will manage the journey just fine. Both should be affordable, but of the two, SUVS offer more room and better road clearance. So, you might be able to take a quick detour on a dirt road.

Whichever one you take, just make sure you have snow chains with you if you intend to travel in the winter.

Recommended routes and the most suitable vehicles

New Zealand’s South Island offers plenty of excellent road tripping routes. Here are some recommendations of where you can go, and what would be the most appropriate vehicle for the trip.

Southern Scenic Route

This remote and spectacular route winds along the southern coast from Queenstown to Dunedin and is full of hidden gems. It is ideally suited to campervans, SUVs or compact cars, and there are plenty of places to stop and stay overnight.

Be sure to include Lake Wakatipu, the Devil’s Staircase and Invercargill in your itinerary.

Queenstown to Milford Sound

The drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound is about as incredible as it gets. There are plenty of highlights, but Mirror Lakes, with their picturesque reflections, and the dramatic Eglinton Valley take some beating.

If you intend to do this drive in the summer, a reliable SUV will be fine. However, as the roads can be steep, winding and often icy in winter, you’d be better off with a 4WD then.

Christchurch to West Coast via Arthur’s Pass

If you want to go alpine driving and enjoy postcard-perfect views, this route will be ideal for you. You can expect twisty climbs and sharp descents, so it is more suited to an SUV or 4WD.

Be sure to stop off at the impressive cascade of the Devil’s Punchbowl Falls and the breathtakingly beautiful Arthur’s Pass National Park.

Nelson to Kaikoura via Blenheim

This route offers superb coastal views, scenic vineyards, and the chance to enjoy encounters with various marine life.

It is also ideal for wine lovers, given how many cellar doors are in the area and can be easily completed in a compact car or SUV. The roads along this route are sealed and usually well-maintained by the local authorities.