The scenery on this route is simply mind-blowing. Get ready for towering mountains, turquoise lakes and the sweetest little church you've ever seen - along with friendly, down-to-earth locals and rare wildlife. Stargaze above Lake Tekapo, explore New Zealand's longest glacier and discover Dunedin’s famous Larnach Castle.
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Picturesque by day and dazzling by night, Lake Tekapo is a must-visit for nature lovers.
Read moreBegin your day with an easy drive from Christchurch through the patchwork fields of the Canterbury Plains to beautiful Lake Tekapo. With its stunning turquoise water, Lake Tekapo offers a magnificent spectacle year round. There are so many ways to enjoy this part of the country – hiking, fishing or relaxing in hot pools while gazing at the lake.
The sheer grandeur of the place truly comes alive at night with clear, remarkably dark skies, making Lake Tekapo a stargazer's dream. Head to the top of Mt John for 360 degree panoramic views of the International Dark Sky Reserve.
From Lake Tekapo take your time to explore this beautiful part of New Zealand. A short detour leads to the foot of Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand's tallest mountain. Or take the easy walk and discover spectacular views of the country's largest glacier.
In Ōmarama spend the evening relaxing in heated, pure mountain water(opens in new window) surrounded by amazing scenery.
Head south-east, past the brilliant turquoise waters of the lakes Benmore, Aviemore, and Waitaki towards the coast.
As you journey down the coast to Dunedin, take time to stop and marvel at one of New Zealand’s great natural wonders, the Moeraki Boulders. Just around the corner, at Katiki Point, you’ll find fur seals and yellow-eyed penguin colonies nesting alongside the Moeraki Lighthouse.
End your journey in Dunedin, one of the best preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere and home to the the country's only castle, Larnach Castle.
Those travelling by bus will travel inland through the Central Otago towns of Cromwell, Alexandra and Roxburgh
Important things you need to know about driving in New Zealand.
Getting around New Zealand is easy with a great range of transport options available.
There are plenty of accommodation options for every budget and travel style.
No matter the season, the majority of our main attractions are open year-round.
More information on basic costs for accommodation, travel and food.
