Top coastal road trips in the South Island of New Zealand
The South Island of New Zealand, also known as Te Waipounamu, is located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean and is the larger of the country’s two main islands. It features a long and varied coastline, with several highways and back roads that follow the sea.
What are the best coastal roads in the South Island of New Zealand?
These routes pass through fishing towns, national parks, and remote beaches, offering access to coastal wildlife, local food, and natural landmarks.
Mount Cook Road
Driving the Mount Cook Road along the turquoise Lake Pukaki is a must-do in NZ. This 54.7 km (33.98 miles) paved route offers stunning views with easy driving, aside from a single one-lane bridge. The 40-60 minute drive (without stops) demands longer due to its beauty, with iconic viewpoints like Peters Lookout providing incredible perspectives of the lake and Mount Cook. This area in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park also served as a filming location for ‘The Lord of the Rings’ and ‘The Hobbit’. Generally open year-round, winter travelers should carry chains due to potential weather changes.
Glenorchy - Queenstown Road
The Glenorchy-Queenstown Road is a spectacular 46.3 km (28.77 miles) paved drive hugging the blue Lake Wakatipu in the central South Island. Connecting Queenstown and Glenorchy, this winding route offers breathtaking scenery of the lake against the Southern Alps. While the drive takes about an hour non-stop, its curves and stunning vistas encourage pauses. This area around Lake Wakatipu was also a filming location for movies like ‘The Water Horse’ and ‘The Lord of the Rings’. Allow extra time to enjoy the lookouts along this memorable coastal journey.
Queen Charlotte Drive
Queen Charlotte Drive, a 33.2 km (20.62 miles) sealed road in the Marlborough Region, links Havelock and Picton with remarkable coastal scenery. While the non-stop drive takes 50-70 minutes, the views of turquoise bays and native forest are captivating. Expect a slower pace on this winding route, popular with cyclists. Running along the Mahakipawa Arm, it offers exceptional driving views with numerous lookout points. Take your time to appreciate one of New Zealand's most scenic drives.
Haast Highway
The Haast Highway, a 276 km (171.5 miles) paved route along the West Coast of the South Island, is a breathtaking drive. Connecting Haast and Hokitika, this highway, completed in the 1960s, offers an unforgettable journey of around 3-4 hours without stops. Expect stretches right by the coast, revealing hidden bays and scenic spots perfect for soaking in the dramatic landscape. This is considered one of the most spectacular coastal drives in the world.