Self-drive itineraries
South Island loops worth the drive.
Tried-and-tested routes from a long weekend to a fortnight off the seal. Every one built around gravel roads, alpine passes and somewhere good to wake up.
The Classic South
The essential first loop. Big-sky lakes, the Mackenzie Country and Queenstown, with easy gravel detours to break up the tar.
Alpine & Lakes
Cross the divide twice. Arthur’s Pass, the wild West Coast glaciers, then back through Wanaka and down to the Catlins.
The Full Loop
The whole island at Jimny pace. Marlborough Sounds, Kaikōura coast, the deep south and every gravel side-road you can fit in.
Camping · $75/day · Christchurch pickup
Sleep wherever the road ends.
The Adventure Package turns any Christchurch Jimny into a self-contained camper — rooftop tent, kitchen and fridge, ready for freedom-camping loops and DOC sites.
Rooftop tent
Sleeps two. Up in minutes.
Kitchen kit
Stove, Jetboil, cookset, dinner set.
12V fridge
Cold food and drinks on the road.
Camp chairs
For the view at the end of the day.
Know before you go
Driving the South Island.
Gravel, yes. Off-road, no.
Gravel and unsealed public roads are welcome year-round. Tracks, private land and beaches are not permitted.
Winter & alpine passes
Add snow chains ($50/booking) for winter and alpine routes. We’ll advise on conditions when you book.
Freedom camping
Self-contained camping opens up DOC sites and freedom-camping spots. Always check local rules and signage.
Pick a loop. Pick your dates.
We’ll help you plan the route when you book.