Arriving Nelson

Home to art-lovers, Nelson is one of locations where you can find top-notch artworks of renowned artisans. It has innumerable art galleries including the famous Hoglund Art Glass Studio. However, art is not the only allurement for visitors. This place is rich in export quality wine production. It also offers luscious sea food that can be devoured gaping at the picturesque vistas of sallow beaches. It is an ideal location to instigate the gratifying journey through South Island of New Zealand.

Adventurous people can spend a day at Abel Tasman National Park to have a kayak, walk, and seals trip. Leisure-activity-lovers like me can scull a boat through the coast of Kaiteriteri and witness the sight of the celebrated ‘Split Apple Rock’. Relax a while on the pasty beach and hire a water-taxi that passes through the pictorial Island Sea Colony to finally arrive at Onetahuti. Here, saunter on the Abel Tasman Walking Track glancing at the handsome sights of the coasts before you reach Bark Bay. Hire a similar water-taxi that will drop you near Kaiteriteri.

Nelson to Punakaiki

Rest overnight at any of the exquisite hotels in Nelson, have a filling breakfast in the morning and drive south toward Tasman Bay. Keep driving through the coasts of domestic Nelson Lakes that points west to arrive at the jagged backdrop of the ‘Coast Road’. This road is an entwining one that meanders through the shrubbery swathed inclinations that embraces Nikau Palms and concealed sights of Tasman Sea. It is one of the most gorgeous and picturesque roads of New Zealand. Halt you vehicle at Westport, a historical coal mining center. Visit the neighboring museum that preserves age-old monuments and frescos. Notice the sights of blowholes and Pancake Rocks, which indicates you have arrived Punakaiki.

Punakaiki to Fox Glacier

Before instigating your journey from Punakaiki to head toward Fox Glacier and Franz Josef, check out the city that was once an ancient gold and coal mining center of New Zealand. Along with its richness below the earth, it is also rich with awe-inspiring scenes above the land as well.

Looking at the Pancake Rocks, turn the ignition key of your car and drive toward the striking panoramas of Franz Josef. This is a terrain filled with brawny mountains, imposing glaciers, serene lake water, noisy and gushing river, luxuriant tropical woods, and unmatched coasts. Analyze the extensiveness of the glaciers by halting close to it or hire a scenic aircraft to appreciate the chilling art of nature. The route flanked by stunning landscapes will take you to the magical land of Fox Glacier.

To Queenstown

The downy transformation of the landscape from luxuriant tropical woods of south wasteland to the rugged knolls and crests is quite pleasing. You can halt your vehicle at any spot on the Haast Pass to witness the magnificence of adjoining mountain pools and innumerable cascades of waterfalls. The gushing waterfalls and the soundless road direct you to the borough of Southern Lakes. Here the boulevard is edged by the views and hum of the water surging through Dunstan, Hawae, and Wanaka Lakes.

Inhale the mauve aroma produced from the vineyards swathing the land of Kawarau Gorge. This ravine is a rocky area known for its centuries-old viaduct and the inescapable sights of the vineyards. This rocky region appears after you pass the colorful land painted with the various fruits grown in Cromwell. The sightseeing boulevard concludes at the yet another gorgeous area of Queenstown.

Queenstown to Milford Sound

Snuggled on the coasts of Lake Wakatipu and encircled by the grandiose spread of Souther Apls, Queenstown is considered as the most popular destination in New Zealand. Spend a day shopping at the sumptuous stores, eating at the lavish restaurants, and gaping at the panoramas.

Drive along the coasts of Lake Wakatipu that passes though the lakeside settlement of Te Anau. A short drive along the same direction will exhibit glimpses of the magnificent backdrop of Milford Sound. This place is blessed with the high-ceilinged crests and richly surging waterfalls. You can effortlessly spot shiny seals, endearing dolphins, and swift penguins.

Concluding the Expedition

Drive up toward the Dart River and enter the spectacular landscape of Mount Aspiring National Park. Drive past Gondola glancing at the staggering spectacles and reach to the hill top to endeavor Bungee Jumping. Or opt to hike for a full day on the legendary Routeburn Track. For simpler activities, halt at any of the pictorial lakes and start fishing rafting, swimming.

Trip Tips

Early fall or late spring is an ideal time for a pleasurable drive with best outlooks.