South Island

Majestic Mountains and Wild Coastlines

Few places in the world offer natural beauty as diverse and accessible as New Zealand’s South Island. Two weeks here, and you’ll only scratch the surface – there are mind-blowing destinations in every region.  From stunning beaches and famous walks in the north, to glaciers, rivers and snowy peaks in the south, there’s no shortage of things to explore in your campervan rental. And the best part? It’s all conveniently close to the isand’s main hubs: Christchurch, Dunedin, and Queenstown.

Venture up to Nelson for access to breathtaking national parks like the Abel Tasman Coast Track and Queen Charlotte Track. The sheltered waterways and picturesque fjords here are sure to make your Instagram shine. Just a short drive further south reveals Marlborough’s picturesque fjords and award-winning wine country. 

The question of which coast reigns supreme – East or West – depends on what you’re seeking. Between its lush rainforests and wild rivers, the West Coast boasts wonders like Mount Cook and the famous Franz Josef glacier. Meanwhile, the East Coast charms with quaint towns like the whale-watching haven of Kaikoura.

Heading even further south, the climate is cooler, the skies clearer, and the landscapes more rugged. Otago offers the cosy city of Dunedin, renowned wineries, and of course the adventure capital, Queenstown. Southland has the Milford Sound, Bluff Oysters, and serves as the gateway to Stewart Island, a remote wildlife haven with great hikes.

Where Should I Go?

Need some help deciding what to put on your visit list? Have a read of our favourite New Zealand Road Trip Itineraries, handpicked to suit various starting points and trip durations. You can choose from options covering both the North and South Islands, or focus solely on the South Island.

Some say a week is enough time to see the South Island’s highlights in a campervan, but we’d beg to differ! To fully immerse yourself in its wonders – at a relaxing pace – we recommend staying for at least two to three weeks.

From luxurious full-service campgrounds to secluded off-grid DOC campsites, the South Island offers park-up spots to suit every traveler’s preferences. Plus its super easy to find your ideal overnight spot thanks to NZ’s many camping applications.

We understand that travelling can be exhausting, so we recommend that after picking up your Quirky Camper, you recharge nearby for the first night. Then you can hit the road refreshed and well rested!

See the South Island Your Way

Once you’ve decided loosely whereabouts you’d like to go, choose where you’d like to start your Quirky adventure from. In the South Island, we have handcrafted campervan hire options in Nelson, Christchurch, and Dunedin. If you’re bringing along a furry friend, browse our range of pet-friendly campers!

While each of our campervan rentals are unique, they’re all privately owned, insulated, and self-contained. Many even have showers and heaters for cooler nights.

So, what’re you waiting for? Hire a camper now! Look through our dreamy collection of campers, pick your perfect match, book, and you’ll be connected with its lovely owner. Meet them at a time that suits you for a handover, and let the adventure begin!