Embarking on a road trip from Christchurch to Franz Josef unveils the heart and soul of New Zealand’s South Island. This journey, abundant with scenic drives, historic sites, and natural wonders, is a bucket-list adventure for travellers and photography enthusiasts alike. Below is your guide to the most mesmerizing stops along this route, ensuring every kilometer is packed with discovery. And for those seeking comfortable, strategically located accommodations, Haka House offers the perfect spots to rest and call home along your travels. Here’s our top picks of scenic landscapes, cosy cafes, and unforgettable hikes that promise to make your road trip truly spectacular!
Kick off your adventure in Springfield with a photo op with the giant donut! Springfield’s Giant Donut is an iconic, quirky pit stop where you can snap memorable photos and enjoy a sweet treat right at the start of your road trip adventure. It’s a whimsical introduction to the wonders of the South Island.
On your journey from Christchurch to Franz Josef, you’ll encounter the remarkable area of Castle Hill, located just before Arthur’s Pass. This is a place of natural wonder, where impressive limestone rock formations rise from the earth like a timeless sculpture gallery, inviting you to explore and marvel at one of the South Island’s most iconic landscapes.
Aside from the imposing limestone formations, Castle Hill is also popular among outdoor enthusiasts for its climbing and hiking opportunities.
As you pass the Canterbury Plains on your drive from Christchurch to Franz Josef, don’t miss Arthur’s Pass, a slice of mountain paradise with amazing views and trails that are a must for any adventure lover. This breathtaking alpine wonderland is at the heart of the Southern Alps, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure on the scenic drive from Christchurch to the wild West Coast. This scenic drive and historical landmark offers breathtaking walks and a chance to spot the playful Kea birds in their natural habitat.
As you venture from Christchurch towards the stunning landscapes of Franz Josef, be sure to make a stop at Hokitika Gorge, located just a short detour off the main route. Don’t miss the mesmerizing turquoise waters of Hokitika Gorge – it’s the perfect spot for an Insta-worthy photo and a refreshing pause on your road trip to soak in some of New Zealand’s most jaw-dropping scenery! Just outside Hokitika, engage with nature on an elevated tree walk that offers unique perspectives on the lush landscapes, a haven for nature photographers and adventure travellers.
Next, immerse yourself in the area’s rich history. The Ross Gold Fields transport you back to the thrilling days of the gold rush, where you can try your luck panning for gold nuggets amidst great views of New Zealand’s rugged West Coast. This is a fun pitstop that will appeal to history buffs and adventure seekers alike.
In the heart of Arthur’s pass, you’ll come across the Otira Stagecoach Hotel. Here, you can step into the past and immerse yourself in the ambiance of yesteryear amidst the beauty of the Southern Alps. This stopover is located in Otira, a small town on the western side of Arthur’s Pass in the South Island of New Zealand. It sits along the historic route that connects the Canterbury region with the West Coast. With its unique blend of café charm and museum wonder, this is a great visit for anyone looking for a quirky experience.
As your journey winds down, the unparalleled beauty of Franz Josef Glacier provides a dramatic finale to your road trip, showcasing the raw, ice-carved splendor of New Zealand’s landscapes. Franz Josef Glacier isn’t just a stop, it’s a whole adventure on its own! Nestled in New Zealand’s wild West Coast, this glacier offers a rare chance to walk up to, and even onto, an ancient river of ice. But that’s not all – Franz Josef is surrounded by rainforests, waterfalls, and pools that look like they’re straight out of a fairytale. Whether you’re hiking the glacier, skydiving with unbeatable views, or chilling with glow worms, Franz Josef is a living, moving natural wonder that’s too good to skip.
Embarking on a road trip from Christchurch to Franz Josef is an adventure that showcases the best of New Zealand’s landscapes. Here are some key tips to help plan your journey:
Duration: The drive typically takes about 5 to 6 hours, excluding stops. However, to fully soak in the experience with leisurely stops for sightseeing and meals, you might want to allocate a full day of travel.
Distance: The route covers approximately 350 kilometers (about 217 miles), offering a diverse range of sights from ocean views to alpine scenery.
Best Time to Travel: While this journey can be made year-round, the summer months (December to February) offer longer daylight hours for sightseeing. Winter drives provide stunning snowy landscapes, though you’ll need to be prepared for potential road closures.
Must-Sees Along the Way: Don’t miss the stunning Arthur’s Pass National Park, a perfect spot for a scenic hike or a picnic. Lake Brunner and the Hokitika Gorge are also must-visits for their breathtaking views.
Driving Tips: Be prepared for winding roads and changing weather conditions, especially through mountain passes. Ensure your vehicle is well-equipped, especially in winter.
Stay at Haka House: No epic journey should compromise on comfort, and with Haka House’s accommodations in both Christchurch and Franz Josef, you’re assured a restful stay throughout your adventure. Each Haka House offers not just a bed, but a warm, inviting community space to unwind and share tales of your travels. Our locations along your route, including Haka House Franz Josef and Haka House Christchurch, ensure that comfort and hospitality await wherever your adventures take you.
Discover some of the most scenic and rewarding day trips to take from Queenstown. Whether you’re here for epic landscapes, local culture, or a low-key nature fix, these nearby escapes deliver the goods. Even better? They’re all easily reached from Haka House Queenstown or Queenstown Lakefront.
Explore the best summer walks in Queenstown, from lakeside trails to mountain lookouts. Discover hikes like Moke Lake, Lake Hayes, and Ben Lomond near Haka House.
As the southern hemisphere welcomes the cooler embrace of autumn, New Zealand transforms into a canvas of warm hues and crisp, inviting weather. Autumn in New Zealand, stretching from March to May, is a spectacle of nature not to be missed. Experience the stunning autumnal colours, diverse activities, and breathtaking landscapes each region has to offer.
As the southern hemisphere welcomes the cooler embrace of autumn, New Zealand transforms into a canvas of warm hues and crisp, inviting weather. Autumn in New Zealand, stretching from March to May, is a spectacle of nature not to be missed. Experience the stunning autumnal colours, diverse activities, and breathtaking landscapes each region has to offer.