The Ultimate Road Trips to Experience in New Zealand at Least Once in a Lifetime
If you’re looking for an adventure like no other, you need to experience a road trip in New Zealand. Known for its stunning landscapes, epic mountains, scenic beaches, and winding roads, New Zealand provides some of the most picturesque drives in the world. With an endless range of possibilities to choose from, we’ve compiled the top 5 road trips you need to add to your bucket list.
1. Milford Road, Fiordland National Park
Ranked among the most scenic drives in the world, Milford Road is one of the best road trips in New Zealand. Starting from Te Anau and ending at Milford Sound, this 118 km stretch of road is surrounded by towering granite peaks, crystal-clear rivers, and several waterfalls. Be sure to park your car and take the time to explore the area on foot, including the Mirror Lakes, the Chasm Walk, and the Homer Tunnel.
2. State Highway 6, West Coast
Starting from Greymouth and ending in Wanaka, this 340 km road trip offers unforgettable views of the rugged West Coast. Enjoy the seascapes and the mountain ranges as you pass through the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers. The drive also takes you through several quaint villages where you can stop for a bite to eat, shop, or hike the local trails.
3. Route 72, Canterbury
Route 72 is a 245 km long east-west road that traverses the Canterbury Plains. The drive connects Christchurch and Methven, offering a scenic route through the foothills of the Southern Alps. Along the way, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the braided Rakaia River, the towering Alps, and the scenic Lake Coleridge.
4. The Thermal Explorer Highway
The Thermal Explorer Highway is a 450 km long road trip from Auckland to Napier. This drive takes you through several thermal parks including the Wai-O-Tapu and Te Puia then onto Wairakei, the largest geothermal power station in New Zealand. The road then leads to Taupo, New Zealand’s largest lake, and Mount Ruapehu, an active volcano. As you enjoy the thermal wonders, take some time to stop at Rotorua, the cultural hub of New Zealand.
5. The Southern Scenic Route
Last but not least, the Southern Scenic Route is an unforgettable 610 km road trip along the South Island’s southern coast. Starting from Dunedin, the drive takes you through The Catlins, Queenstown, Te Anau, before ending in Milford Sound. This route offers the chance to experience a diverse landscape including rugged coastlines, dense native bush, cascading waterfalls, and serene lakes.
In summary, New Zealand’s road trips provide a unique experience for travelers from all walks of life. The flexibility to stop anytime and admire the breathtaking views at your own pace is a luxury you won’t want to miss. If you’re looking to step out of your comfort zone and reconnect with nature, any of these five road trips will take you on an adventure you’ll never forget.
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