Christchurch to Marlborough Road Trip

Your journey begins in Christchurch, the largest city in the South Island. Known as the Garden City, Christchurch is famous for its beautiful parks and gardens, particularly Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens, where you can take a stroll through the green spaces or enjoy a punt ride on the Avon River. Don’t miss the vibrant street art scene and the innovative Cardboard Cathedral while you’re here either, and Christchurch’s blend of traditional English charm and modern resilience makes it an amazing starting point for your road trip.

A short drive north brings you to the Waipara Valley, a renowned wine region that is famous for its Pinot Noir and Riesling. One highlight is a visit to Pegasus Bay Winery with its beautiful gardens and acclaimed restaurant, and if time allows, take the time to stop by Greystone Wines for an organic wine experience, too. No matter where you go, the Waipara Valley’s picturesque vineyards and warm hospitality make it a perfect early stop to relax and indulge.

Continuing north, Hanmer Springs is a must-visit for its natural hot pools and outdoor activities. The Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa is a popular destination here, offering a variety of thermal pools, water slides, and spa treatments that is perfect for unwinding after a day on the road. Or, for the more adventurous, there are numerous hiking and biking trails in the surrounding forests and mountains that are calling to be explored.

As you leave Hanmer Springs, the road takes you through the stunning Lewis Pass. This alpine route offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers, and there are several scenic stops and short walks along the pass, such as the Maruia Falls and the Alpine Nature Walk. This section of the trip is a photographer’s paradise, with opportunities to capture the raw beauty of New Zealand’s high country.

Located in the valley of the Inangahua River, Reefton is a historic town with a rich gold mining heritage. Famous for being the first town in the Southern Hemisphere to have electric street lighting, Reefton offers a glimpse into New Zealand’s past, and you can visit the Reefton Distilling Co. for a tour and tasting of their locally produced spirits, or explore the Bearded Miners’ hut for a fascinating look at the life of early miners.

Murchison, which is often referred to as the white-water capital of New Zealand, is an excellent stop for outdoor enthusiasts, as the Buller River offers fantastic rafting and kayaking opportunities, while the surrounding areas provide numerous hiking and fishing spots. It’s not all about adventure sports, though, and you can also visit the Murchison Museum here to learn about the town’s history and its dramatic 1929 earthquake.

Lake Rotoiti is a stunning alpine lake in Nelsons Lakes National Park that is surrounded by mountains and native forests. This is a perfect spot for boating, fishing, and swimming, and there are several walking tracks around its shores to enjoy, too. The St. Arnaud Range also offers more challenging hikes with spectacular views, and the tranquillity and natural beauty here make it a wonderful place to unwind and connect with nature.

As you enter the Marlborough region, Blenheim is your gateway to one of the world’s premier wine regions, and while it is known primarily for its Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough is home to numerous wineries that offer tastings and tours. Visit Cloudy Bay Vineyards or Brancott Estate to sample some of the region’s best wines and enjoy gourmet dining, and when you’re done, Blenheim also boasts beautiful parks and gardens to explore, while the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre features Sir Peter Jackson’s collection of World War I aircraft and memorabilia.

Your final stop, Picton, is a picturesque port town and the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds. The town itself is charming, with waterfront cafes, galleries, and the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum. However, the real attraction here is the Marlborough Sounds, a network of drowned river valleys creating stunning coastal scenery, where you can take a boat cruise, go kayaking, or hike parts of the Queen Charlotte Track to fully appreciate this natural wonder.

From the vibrant urban culture of Christchurch to the serene waters of the Marlborough Sounds, every leg of this road trip offers something unique and memorable. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, history buff, adventure seeker, or nature lover, this route has it all, ensuring a rich and rewarding travel experience. To make the most of your journey, contact Travellers Autobarn to find out more about hiring a campervan, which will come with unlimited kilometers, making it possible to discover everything the open road has to offer without any limitations. If you’re looking for something else to do in the south island, check out some of our other South Island Road Trips.