Wildlife, rugged clifftops, beaches, and other wonders of nature dominate the coastal drive from Dunedin to Christchurch in New Zealand. Intermixed are fascinating cities and an eclectic mix of architecture. While this South Island road trip could be completed in half a day, you would miss so much.
From a historical perspective, you will travel from the Scottish influence of Dunedin, through the Victorian era in Oamaru, before arriving at the redeveloped and modern city of Christchurch.
And if you are driving Christchurch to Dunedin, this itinerary works fine in reverse.
Dunedin to Christchurch drive itinerary
First, let us whet your appetite …
Dunedin to Christchurch: A New Zealand South Island Road Trip
The five-hour drive from the south-east corner of New Zealand's South Island heading north to its largest city is one that should be taken slowly. We spent several days and spotted endangered wildlife, enjoyed culinary delights, learned about steampunk, and enjoyed unparalleled clifftop ocean views. Here are more details of our key stops.
Dunedin
Dunedin has it all. It is a peninsula teeming with wildlife complemented by a town centre of Scottish-influenced architecture. The peninsula is home to the world's rarest penguin (yellow-eyed penguin). You will also find little blue penguins, giant albatross, seals, sea lions, and countless bird species.
Head to town for scrumptious food, intricate architectural design, the world's steepest street, both a Chinese and a botanical garden, several interesting museums, and much more.
Catlins Rainforest (optional side trip)
If you have an extra two days, consider a side trip through the Catlins rainforest along New Zealand's southern coast. You can do it in just a few hours without stopping, but there is plenty of interesting nature to see along the way.
Here, we discovered a rugged coastline through a temperate rainforest with striking waterfalls, petrified wood, and several endangered species including Hector’s dolphins and yellow-eyed penguins.
(Mysterious) Moeraki Boulders
The Moeraki Boulders are huge spherical rocks on Koekohe beach, along the east coast about 75 km north of Dunedin (a 1-hour drive). Beautiful in their own right, it is the legends and mystery surrounding them that make them so popular.
If you can time your day to visit at low tide, you will see more of the boulders. Although, even as high tide rapidly approaches (in the photo above), the views are lovely.
Katiki Point Lighthouse
More than a lighthouse, this is an area to see wildlife. It's a protected breeding ground for the critically endangered yellow-eyed penguins. Sea lions and fur seals also call these shores home.
From the Moeraki boulders, it's a fifteen-minute drive followed by a 10 - 30-minute walk, depending on how far you want to go. The lighthouse itself first shone in 1878.
Oamaru: New Zealand’s Steampunk Capital
New Zealand's steampunk capital is a trip back to the Victorian era. Restored to their original lustre, the 19th-century architecture lining the streets are only the beginning. Costumed employees, penny-farthings, and steampunk genre are all part of the fun.
Oamaru is much more than just the Victorian Precinct. At 112 km from Dunedin and another 40 minutes of driving past Moeraki boulders, it is the ideal place to spend the night after a slow day taking in the boulders and the wildlife along the coast.
Lake Tekapo (optional side trip)
Lake Tekapo is possibly the most beautiful spot in New Zealand, which is probably why it is included on so many multi-day South Island road trips and tours. A side trip here adds less than two hours to the total drive time. (or from here, you could continue on to Queenstown)
Aside from the stunning lake reflecting the snow-capped mountains, there is hiking, horseback riding, and a new Māori astronomy center in the world's largest dark sky reserve.
More stops between Oamaru and Christchurch
If you are skipping Lake Tekapo, and following the east coast road from Oamaru to Christchurch, don't miss these stops:
- Waimate
If you have ever wondered where to find wild wallabies in New Zealand, this is it. It's also a charming town noted for its timber-based Edwardian architecture. - Timaru
The Te Ana Māori Rock Art Centre makes Timaru a fascinating place to stop. - Temuka
Once home to Richard Pearse, today Temuka's charming cafes and a lovely pottery gallery make for a welcoming stop. From November to April, it's also a great spot for salmon fishing. - Geraldine
Monikered the “gateway to the Southern Lakes”, we often have lunch or a snack at one of the local cafes, pick up some chocolate fudge, and stretch our legs along one of the trails in the Peel Forest.
Christchurch
Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island. The city is taking advantage of the rare opportunity to reinvent itself as a modern metropolis in New Zealand. After being devastated by two massive earthquakes in 2010 and 2011, it has revitalized stronger and better than ever.
Visitors enjoy punting on the Avon River, exploring the Antarctic Centre, walking the British-influenced streets and discovering street art, or visiting the museums or animal parks.
Travelling along this road trip
We love Dunedin and can spend several days in town without a vehicle. However, self-driving is the easiest way to get out to the peninsula and see the penguins, albatross, seals, sea lions, or New Zealand’s only castle.
Therefore, if you flew into Dunedin, we recommend enjoying the first few days on foot. Then, rent a car at least one day before you are ready to venture out on this South Island road trip and drive to the peninsula.
The road trip we are recommending is all easy driving. A normal (two-wheel drive) car will be fine, although the smaller the vehicle, the less petrol you will use. And in New Zealand petrol is very expensive, typically running between 150% – 200% of the prices in the USA.
When we don’t take our own vehicle, we hire (rent) from RentalCars.com. We simply put in our dates and requirements and they present us with a list of available cars from various companies. Importantly, they also provide dealership ratings to help us make the best choice. To date, we have been thrilled with their customer assistance (we had a few local issues in South America).
Driving tips for your New Zealand South Island road trip
- In New Zealand, we drive on the left side of the road.
- Relax and enjoy the journey, don’t be in a hurry.
- New Zealand speed limits on the open road are up to 100 kph (62 mph). However, they are slower as you pass through towns, or on windy or rural roads.
- Know New Zealand’s driving rules. Be sure to understand how to cross the one-way bridges.
Where to stay on your Dunedin to Christchurch road trip
Exploring the South Island, we let this under five-hour drive take us three days, plus four days on each end, totalling eleven days. It could be done in less time, or more.
Dunedin accommodation recommendations
Distinction Dunedin: We spent three nights at the Distinction Dunedin. Spacious and comfortable, it was a perfect choice. Not only did we get an outstanding night’s sleep, enjoy delicious breakfast, and have secure car parking, it is also in walking distance to the Octagon (the centre of town and restaurant nightlife), the museums, and the Chinese gardens. ⇒ Reserve your stay at Distinction Dunedin
Larnach Castle: If you have a car for the entire stay, another interesting option is to stay at New Zealand’s only castle. Note that most of the accommodations are in the converted stables, but dinner is served in the castle itself. ⇒ Reserve your stay at Larnach Lodge
Oamaru accommodation recommendations
We spent two nights in Oamaru, arriving late on the first day. This gave us nearly two days to explore this fascinating town, before heading to Christchurch late on the second day. We opted to stay in one of the motels along the highway. On our next visit, we will aim to stay at the Oasis on Orwell.
Oasis on Orwell Bed and Breakfast: Attracted by the “exceptional” rating on the booking site, we had to read more. With both double and family room options, it caters to everyone, offering a touch of luxury with slippers and bathrobes in the rooms. Plus, they can cater to vegetarian or gluten-free diets. Note: Payment is by cash only. Reserve your stay at Oasis on Orwell Bed and Breakfast
Tekapo accommodation recommendations
The Mackenzie Suites are a five-star option with lake and mountain views. This luxurious option offers one-bedroom suites with kitchenettes and pick-up service from Tekapo Village if you arrive via bus, or free parking. ⇒ Reesrve your stay at The Mackenzie Suites
Christchurch accommodation recommendations
Crowne Plaza: We stayed three nights in Christchurch at the plush and elegant Crowne Plaza, a hotel living up to its international reputation. Comfortable beds, modern bathroom, and everything we needed. While an easy walk to most tourist sites, be aware that it is in an area still being redeveloped following the quakes. ⇒ Reserve your stay at Crowne Plaza Christchurch
Other options to travel from Christchurch to Dunedin or reverse
- Private tour: While we haven’t taken private tours in New Zealand because we live here, we do have a go-to company around the world (that has plenty of NZ guides). Check out private guides here.
- Flights: Dunedin to Christchurch are available on Air New Zealand, but you will miss all the fascinating sites above.
- Dunedin to Christchurch train: There is currently no train service between these cities; however, the Dunedin Railway offers some scenic day excursions.
- Bus: Intercity bus travels between the two cities daily.
Read next: 18 Extraordinary Things to Do in the South Island NZ
Save on your NZ trip with these resources
These are our go-to companies when we travel. We believe this list to be the best in each category. You can’t go wrong using them on your trip too.
- Flights: we use Expedia for the best and cheapest flight options.
- Accommodations: we use Booking.com (hotels), Bookabach (self-contained in NZ), or Hostelworld (budget). See all our personal favourite NZ hotels here.
- Cars (gas or electric): we use RentalCars to search for deals and dealer ratings.
- Motorcycles: we have heard good things about BikesBooking.
- Campervans: Our readers prefer Jucy, and we get consistently great feedback.
- Activity discounts: we check Bookme.com for discounts of up to 70% on activities.
- Private guides: we do have a go-to when we hire a private guide from Viator.
- Travel Insurance: while not required, we always opt for travel insurance and start at InsureMyTrip to compare coverage plans.
Check out our travel resources page for more companies that we use when you travel. And don’t forget to download our free New Zealand packing list when you sign up for our newsletter.
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If you enjoyed this South Island road trip from Dunedin to Christchurch, please share it on social media, including Pinterest.
What will be your highlight of this South Island road trip?
Disclaimer: We worked with Enterprise Dunedin and ChristchurchNZ, the local tourism boards. We were also provided with many complimentary entrances, tours, sample items, or media rates to assist in the writing of this document. The opinions expressed here are strictly our own.
Natalie
Catlins Rainforest is not optional to me! That looks amazing and I didnt know anything about yellow-eyes penguins until now.
Nina
Love this road trip! So many people miss Dunedin when they’re in New Zealand, but it’s so beautiful.
Emilia Taneva
Sounds like you might have a tough time deciding which place is your favorite. I’m not sure why, but the one that stands out to me as most interesting and unique would be Steampunk Capital! The Victorian Era had such an impact on these cultures so it will definitely be an experience worth checking out!
Farrah
I’ve always wanted to go to New Zealand so hoping to be able to make that happen someday — a road trip sounds like the way to go. Lake Tekapo looks stunning! <3
Krista
When we visit New Zealand we’re hoping to plan a thorough road trip, so this is going to be really helpful. It looks like an amazing area to drive around!
Linda (LD Holland)
When we originally thought of visiting New Zealand, we considered a cruise. But we have since realized that we really need to stay for a longer time and do many great road trips like this South Island itinerary. I love the mix of city sights and awesome natural beauty. We would definitely plan for lots of side trips like the one to see Lake Tekapo.
Chantelle
My dad lived in New Zealand before I was born and has always talked about how much he loved it, I’ve wanted to go for as long as I can remember! I love the road trip you suggested with the addition of Catlins rainforest! Beautiful!
Stephanie
New Zealand looks like such a gorgeous place! There’s so much to do and see there too! My bucket list is getting longer and longer
Sarah
What a gorgeous place! The side trips to Catlins rainforest and Lake Tekapo sure look worthwhile. Would love to go stargazing there one day.
Lauren
I love a good road trip and this one looks packed with activities. I also love the way you presented everything in such a nice organized manner! Awesome post 🙂
Obligatory Traveler
Penguins and Steampunk? This is a destination I have to visit. The only thing that could be better is if there were Steampunk Penguins. The rest of the nature look beautiful. I’m always up for visiting a waterfall and/or lake views.
betty - NZ
Great post about the beauty of NZ and how to experience it.
Erin Gustafson
My mom is headed to New Zealand early next year – will be sharing your post and NZ content with her! This looks a beautiful section to explore – love the penguins! Cheers from Copenhagen, Erin
Carol
You always share such interesting and beautiful places.
Myrah Duque
I cannot get over the beauty of this place! Your tips on what to see, do, when to rent the car and all those amazing photos, has be more deperate to visit now!
Shannon Gurnee
I would love to visit New Zealand someday. These look like some beautiful places.
Photo Cache
Beautiful corner of the world!
Paul Pietrangelo
The area was beautiful Rhonda. I’m afraid that I’ll never be able to come to New Zealand so every time you show these beautiful photos I love them and I feel like I’m there. Thanks my friend.
Cruisin Paul
Amy Franks
Did you stop into Larnach Castle at all?
Rhonda Albom
Yes, I included info and photos on Larnach amongst the 25 things to do in Dunedin article/
Bernie Jackson
I love taking 3 days for a 5 hour drive – that’s my kind of road trip! The boulders are incredible; I’d not spotted that beach before when researching South Island. And I’m loving the thought of penguins, fur seals and sealions – I could spend hours spotting wildlife.
beatravelling
I didn’t visit the South Island when I was in NZ. Looks like I missed out 🙂 Love the sound of a Steampunk capital, and Lake Tekapo looks very nice, Christchurch too.
Alexandra Cook
Such a great and very detailed post. This could be a useful guide in planning a trip to New Zealand.
kumamonjeng
We are planning for a NZ trip but not so soon, seen so many nice picture posted in IG and even Lord of the Ring was shooting in NZ.
Lauren
I’m not a city goer but I loved Dunedin and hope to go back soon! I also havent gone down to the Katiki lighthouse yet but I want to go and photograph wildlife especially those cute penguins !! AH NZ such a beautiful place eh 🙂
Natalie
The South Island of NZ is beautiful. There are spectacular places around every corner! My daughter got home yesterday from a month in a motor home in NZ.
Natalie
The South Island of NZ is beautiful. There are spectacular places around every corner!
Shannon Lyon
Wow, now I need to visit! Great photos!
Mama Maggie
Wow! I’ve heard a lot of beautiful places to visit in new Zealand. Wish I could be here right now!
Rhonda Albom
It’s winter right now. 🙂
Katherine
Do I have to pick just one highlight? A lot of your scheduled and optional stops look amazing. The Moeraki Boulders and Catlins Rainforest look like must-see places to me.
Stacie
I would love to see New Zealand one day. It’s been on my bucket list ever since I saw the Lord of the Rings trilogy.
Alex J. Cavanaugh
A lot to see along the way. Definitely stopping to see all the steampunk.
Yeah Lifestyle
We as a family have travelled to the North Island but not the South, so reading your post and your tips on what to see and when to rent the car with added photos was just amazing, almost like I was there myself
Sondra Barker
I love a good road trip and nature spots and New Zealand is perfect for all of it!
Explore The 6
Wow, this is my dream trip. New Zealand has been on my bucket list for a while now
Chad
That is soooo beautiful, no not only beautiful, it is gorgeous!!! I’d love to make this trip one day, amazing.