Queenstown to Dunedin via Invercargill route planner

Leaving Queenstown is never easy, especially with all the things to see and do, but with even more amazing scenery to come, you have every reason to head on south ... New Zealand has more surprises in store.

 

There is absolutely no doubt that you’ll enjoy every minute of this ride from Queenstown to Kingston, with lake and mountain views unfolding  as you skirt Lake Wakatipu beneath the towering Remarkables.

As the shores of Lake Wakatipu fade into the distance, the vast Pacific Ocean waits ahead.  But don’t rush yourself - put time aside to discover magnificent Lake Te Anau, New Zealand’s second largest lake.  From Te Anau you can take a trip through the silent underground wonderland where millions of glow-worms are the only light - a ravishing spectacle for young and old.

Then let Lake Manapouri’s mysterious shores draw you into the pristine wilderness of Fiordland National Park. It’s just around the corner, and the call of this extraordinary World Heritage Area may well convince you to stay on for a bit before continuing south.

It’s not far from Manapouri to the coast. A short drive through green farm land and rolling hills and you’ll begin to feel sea breeze. If you’re a keen surfer or just like to watch agile silhouettes carving the waves, here is your excuse for a break: Colac Bay is renowned for fabulous surf. If you happen to be hungry, you might prefer a seafood feast, just a few minutes on at Riverton.

Before you know it, you will reach Invercargill, the southernmost city in New Zealand. Turn the engine off ... this is the place to delight in the art of good living with the locals, renowned for their flawless southern hospitality.

Tip: Pick up a copy of the Southern Scenic Route brochure from the nearest i-SITE for the best insider knowledge on the fabulous hidden spots and interesting points along the route you’re about to travel.  

Take time to soak up some of Invercargill’s legendary local hospitality before deciding whether to head north or take a side trip over to Rakiura / Stewart Island - this ecological paradise is New Zealand’s third largest island, only a short ferry ride from Bluff or by air from Invercargill. With the largest population of kiwi, Stewart Island is where you’re most likely to find this iconic flightless bird.

And there’s always a photo opportunity at New Zealand’s southernmost point – the signpost at Stirling Point at Bluff marks the end of SH1, but not the end of your route. 

On the way north, you’ll find time for reflection with the penguins – sunrise or sunset is the best time to relax and sit quietly on the beach as you watch these comical birds. If you’re in the mood, explore the Petrified Forest at Curio Bay ... a poignant reminder of an earlier time.

As you make your way along the coast, stop for the walk up to Nugget Point where the lighthouse stands on towering cliffs above jagged rocks pounded by a powerful ocean. You will certainly feel the urge to take a few more photos ...

Leaving another picture perfect spot behind, you will soon cross the Clutha River at its mightiest - as it flows into the sea near Balclutha. 

Finally, continue on to Dunedin via Taieri River Mouth and Brighton. Catch a glimpse of a different rural New Zealand, fringed by soaring cliffs and secluded beaches. Stop at Tunnel Beach for a short walk with stunning coastal scenery.

Dunedin's cafe’s are widely regarded for their coffee and famous cheese rolls. Or wander down George St and explore Dunedin's burgeoning fashion scene & shopping precinct. If you’re here in the weekend be sure to check out the Otago Farmers Market!