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Queenstown to Christchurch Campervan Rental
Queenstown to Christchurch One Way Motorhome Hire
Planning a trip from Queenstown to Christchurch? Discover New Zealand’s South Island in a one-way campervan rental. Check availability and prices using our tool.
You can also rent a camper in the opposite direction: from Christchurch to Queenstown.
Queenstown to Christchurch One Way Itinerary
Day 1
Queenstown to Wanaka
Distance: Approximately 70 km (43 miles)
Estimated Driving Time: About 1 hour
Things to See:
- Lake Wanaka (stunning views and walks)
- Roys Peak (famous hike with panoramic views)
- Puzzling World (unique maze and illusions)
Day 2
Wanaka to Mount Cook Village
Distance: Approximately 200 km (124 miles)
Estimated Driving Time: About 2.5 hours
Highlights:
- Lake Pukaki (turquoise waters with Mount Cook views)
- Mount Cook National Park (home to New Zealand’s highest peak)
- Hooker Valley Track (popular hiking trail)
Day 3
Mount Cook Village to Lake Tekapo
Distance: Approximately 105 km (65 miles)
Estimated Driving Time: About 1.5 hours
Must-See Stops:
- Church of the Good Shepherd (picturesque lakeside church)
- Lake Tekapo (stunning lake with alpine backdrop)
- Tekapo Springs (hot pools with lake views)
Day 4
Lake Tekapo to Geraldine
Distance: Approximately 85 km (53 miles)
Estimated Driving Time: About 1 hour
Things to Experience:
- Geraldine Observatory (stargazing opportunities)
- Talbot Forest Scenic Reserve (short nature walks)
- Barkers Foodstore & Eatery (local produce and tastings)
Day 5
Geraldine to Christchurch
Distance: Approximately 140 km (87 miles)
Estimated Driving Time: About 1.5 hours
Attractions in Christchurch:
- Christchurch Botanic Gardens
- Canterbury Museum
- Riverside Market (local food and crafts)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to stay in a caravan park?
A night at a holiday park or campsite around Queenstown will range from $15 to $25 (NZD) for a DOC (Department of Conservation) campsite and around $20–$50 for a night at a caravan park.
Some popular caravan parks near Queenstown include Queenstown Lakeview Holiday Park, Queenstown Holiday Park Creeksyde and Arrowtown Holiday Park.
Can I bring my pet with me when renting a campervan?
There are a number of pet-friendly campervan rental companies in New Zealand that allow you to travel with your dog or cat. Approval must be obtained in advance and this will usually incur a fee to cover the extra cleaning cost. Contact our support team to check if it’s possible to take a pet on board a specific vehicle.
How long should I plan for a motorhome holiday to the South Island?
A good idea is to plan for a minimum of 7 days. However, even a 2- or 3-week road trip around the South Island will easily be filled.
Popular attractions include Mount Cook, UNESCO-designated Fiordland National Park with Milford Sound, Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier, and the adventure capital of Queenstown.
Is it better to rent a motorhome in Queenstown or in Christchurch?
More campervan rental companies are in Christchurch. Additionally, some suppliers, although they offer Queenstown vehicle pickups/drop-offs, don’t have a Queenstown branch and will deliver the vehicle for you. This usually increases the cost of your RV rental.
Does my campervan rental come with unlimited mileage?
Yes, unlimited kilometres are generally included for standard vehicle rentals in New Zealand. The comparison tool will show you whether your preferred vehicle has unlimited or restricted kilometres.
