Complete Guide to New Zealand Drives, Rail Journeys, and Walks
New Zealand is a paradise for slow travelers, offering breathtaking scenery at every turn. Whether you’re winding through the majestic South Island landscapes by car or embarking on a scenic rail journey, there’s no better way to explore this country than by taking your time. This guide will take you through some of New Zealand’s most iconic drives and rail adventures, from the Christchurch to Queenstown route to the famous TranzAlpine and Northern Explorer trains. Each offers the chance to savor the sights, immerse yourself in the landscapes, and enjoy the journey at a leisurely pace.
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New Zealand’s drives and rail journeys are perfect for slow travelers who want to take their time, savor the views, and experience the landscapes at a relaxed pace.
New Zealand Drives
Christchurch to Queenstown
This iconic 6-hour drive (without stops) offers some of New Zealand’s most stunning and diverse landscapes, making it ideal for slow travelers who want to take in the sights over a couple of days
Daily Drive Itineraries:
- Christchurch to Lake Tekapo (3 hours)
Depart from Christchurch, driving through the rolling Canterbury Plains. Stop at Geraldine for a break at its charming cafés. Continue to Lake Tekapo, famous for its turquoise waters and the Church of the Good Shepherd. Take a scenic walk to Mount John Observatory for panoramic views or stargaze under one of the world’s clearest night skies.
- Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook Village (1.5 hours)
Drive along the Pukaki Canal with breathtaking views of Mount Cook. Arrive at Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park and spend the day exploring the park’s hiking trails, such as the easy Hooker Valley Track, offering views of glaciers, alpine lakes, and Mount Cook itself. Stay overnight in Mount Cook Village.
- Mount Cook to Queenstown (3 hours)
Head toward Omarama for a short stop at the Clay Cliffs before continuing to Cromwell, where you can visit local wineries or the Old Cromwell Town Historic Precinct. The drive to Queenstown along the Kawarau Gorge offers dramatic views, with the option to stop for a jet boat ride or a bungee jump at the Kawarau Bridge.
This leisurely journey allows you to explore some of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders at your own pace.
More Scenic Drives
- The Southern Scenic Route (Dunedin to Te Anau)
This lesser-known drive takes you through New Zealand’s southernmost landscapes, from the rugged coastline of the Catlins to the majestic fiords of Fiordland National Park. Popular stops include Nugget Point, the Cathedral Caves, and the Waipapa Point Lighthouse. - Coromandel Peninsula Loop
Start in Thames and drive the loop around the Coromandel Peninsula. Stop at Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own hot pool in the sand, or visit the famous Cathedral Cove. The winding coastal roads provide spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, making this a beautiful day or multi-day drive.
Traveling Through New Zealand by Train
TranzAlpine Train (Christchurch to Greymouth)
The TranzAlpine Train is one of the world’s most scenic train journeys, crossing the South Island from Christchurch to Greymouth. The journey takes about 4.5 hours one-way, but the constantly changing landscape makes it feel like an adventure.
Suggested Itinerary:
- Day Trip Option: Take the early morning TranzAlpine from Christchurch and enjoy the views as the train crosses the Canterbury Plains, ascends into the Southern Alps, and descends through lush rainforests toward the West Coast. You’ll pass highlights like the Waimakariri River Gorge, Arthur’s Pass National Park, and Lake Brunner. Upon arrival in Greymouth, spend a couple of hours exploring the town’s history and local craft breweries, or take a shuttle to Punakaiki to see the famous Pancake Rocks and blowholes before catching the return train to Christchurch in the evening.
- Two-Day Option: Spend the night in Greymouth and use Day 2 to explore the West Coast Wilderness Trail, a scenic cycle route, or head to Hokitika Gorge to walk through the vibrant blue waters surrounded by native bush.
Northern Explorer Train (Auckland to Wellington)
This full-day (approximately 11 hours) journey on the Northern Explorer train connects New Zealand’s two major cities, Auckland and Wellington. It passes through the heart of the North Island and offers diverse scenery along the way.
Suggested Itinerary:
- Day 1: Auckland to National Park Village (5.5 hours)
Board the Northern Explorer from Auckland and travel through lush farmland, rivers, and the iconic Waitomo Caves region (if you have time before the train, a side trip to the Waitomo Glowworm Caves is highly recommended). The train offers panoramic windows, so watch for Mount Ruapehu and the Rangitikei River Gorge as you approach National Park Village. Stay overnight in the National Park and take the opportunity to hike one of the trails in Tongariro National Park, such as the Taranaki Falls Track. - Day 2: National Park Village to Wellington (5.5 hours)
In the morning, board the train again and enjoy the scenic ride through Ohakune, Taihape, and the Kapiti Coast as you head toward Wellington. Upon arrival, explore Wellington’s waterfront, visit Te Papa Museum, or ride the Wellington Cable Car for views over the city. Stay a night or two in Wellington to fully experience its lively arts scene and café culture.
Explore by Campervan or Car
Renting a campervan or car allows you to explore New Zealand at your own pace. The country’s open roads and stunning scenery are ideal for slow drives. Whether you’re meandering through the rolling hills of the South Island or navigating the coastal routes of the North Island, having your own wheels allows you to stop whenever you please. Discover hidden gems like secluded waterfalls, tranquil beaches, and scenic lookouts without the pressure of a fixed schedule.
Resources for Exploring New Zealand by Campervan or Car
Exploring New Zealand by campervan or car is a fantastic way to fully immerse yourself in the country’s stunning landscapes and unique destinations. Here are some resources to help you plan and enjoy your road trip:
- Campervan and Car Rentals
- Maui Motorhomes: (Maui-rentals.com) Offers a range of campervans and motorhomes with various sizes and features to suit different travel styles and group sizes.
- Britz Campervans: (Britz.co.nz) provides affordable and well-maintained campervans, which are ideal for long-term rentals and exploring New Zealand at your own pace.
- Apollo Motorhome Holidays: (apollocamper.com) Offers a range of campervans and motorhomes with flexible rental options and comprehensive insurance packages.
- Road Trip Planning
- New Zealand Road Trip: (https://www.newzealand.com/us/trips-and-driving-itineraries/top-nz-trips/) Provides suggested itineraries, travel tips, and essential information for a smooth road trip experience,
- Everyday Camping and Parking
- DOC Campsites: The Department of Conservation (DOC) – (doc.govt.nz) manages a range of campsites throughout New Zealand, offering affordable and scenic camping options.
- Holiday Parks: (holidayparks.co.nz) New Zealand’s holiday parks provide a range of facilities and accommodations for campervans and caravans.
- Park4Night: (https://park4night.com/en) is an app that helps you find camping spots, service areas, and parking options for campervans in New Zealand.
- Travel Apps and Maps
- Wikicamps NZ: (wikicamps.co.nz) A comprehensive app that provides information on campsites, amenities, and user reviews, helping you find the perfect spot to park for the night.
- Google and Apple Maps: Essential for navigation and discovering local attractions, hidden gems, and scenic routes.
- AA Roadwatch: (aa.co.nz) Offers real-time traffic updates, road conditions, and travel advice.
- Travel Guides and Local Insights
- The Rough Guide to New Zealand: Features practical information, suggested itineraries, and insights into the best driving routes.
Walk the New Zealand Great Walks
New Zealand’s nine Great Walks are renowned for their breathtaking landscapes and offer a perfect opportunity for slow travelers to connect with nature. Trails like the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Milford Track, and Abel Tasman Coast Track provide stunning scenery and a chance to immerse yourself in the country’s natural beauty. These multi-day hikes allow you to truly soak in the surroundings, from lush rainforests to alpine vistas, at a relaxed pace.
Resources for Walking New Zealand’s Great Walks
Embarking on New Zealand’s Great Walks is an incredible way to experience the country’s natural beauty up close. Here are some resources to help you plan and enjoy these iconic multi-day hikes:
- Official Trail Information and Booking
- Department of Conservation (DOC): (https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/things-to-do/walking-and-tramping/great-walks/) Provides comprehensive information on each of the Great Walks, including trail details, booking requirements, and safety tips. DOC Great Walks
- Trail Guides and Maps
- Trail Guide Books:
- Great Walks of New Zealand by Craig Potton Publishing: (craigpotton.co.nz) Offers detailed information on each trail, including maps and hiking tips.
- Trail Guide Books:
- Guided Tours and Support Services
- Hiking New Zealand: (hikingnewzealand.com) Offers guided tours for the Great Walks, providing expert guidance and support throughout your hike.
- Ultimate Hikes (https://www.ultimatehikes.co.nz/) specializes in guided walks on the Milford Track, Routeburn Track, and other Great Walks. It offers inclusive packages that cover accommodation and meals.
- Safety and Preparation
- Mountain Safety Council: (mountainsafety.org.nz) Provides valuable information on how to prepare for your hike, including weather conditions, equipment lists, and emergency contacts.
- Equipment and Gear
- Pack Gear Go (https://www.packgeargo.co.nz/hire-gear/) provides equipment and gear rental services specifically for the Great Walks, including backpacks, sleeping bags, and hiking boots. It offers a range of hiking gear and equipment useful for preparing for New Zealand’s Great Walks.
Slow Travel: New Zealand Drives, Rail Journeys and Walks
New Zealand’s scenic drives and rail journeys provide unforgettable experiences for slow travelers looking to immerse themselves in the country’s natural beauty. From the dramatic landscapes of the South Island to the cultural richness of the North Island, these routes offer more than just a way to get from point A to point B—they’re an adventure in themselves. Whether you’re gazing at starlit skies in Lake Tekapo, winding through the Southern Alps on the TranzAlpine, or exploring hidden gems along coastal roads, taking your time on these journeys allows you to fully appreciate the wonders of New Zealand. So grab your map or your map app, settle in, and let the road or rail take you on a journey you’ll never forget.
