Day 1
Queenstown to Wānaka
Distance 70km - Driving Time 1.5 hours
Collect your camper in Queenstown, stock up on groceries, and point your nose toward Wānaka. The drive is a quick hop, but the scenery delivers right away: alpine valleys, braided rivers, and mountain flanks that glow in the afternoon light. Treat today as a gentle leg-loosener with time to stroll the lakefront and ease into South Island life.
Where to stop between Queenstown and Wānaka
Arrowtown: A charming gold rush village with tree-lined streets and excellent coffee.
Lake Hayes: A short loop walk or photo stop for mirror-like reflections of the surrounding peaks.
Things to do in Wānaka
Stretch your legs along the lakefront and visit the famous lone willow known as That Wānaka Tree. For a short hike with wide views, the Mt Iron loop rewards you with a 360 degree panorama over the basin. Keen to spin the legs on two wheels before race week? The lakeside shared paths are gentle, scenic, and perfect for an easy ride at sunset. Wānaka’s compact town centre is brimming with artisan bakeries, ice cream joints, and brewpubs to wind down the day.
Where to stay in Wānaka
Settle in at Wānaka TOP 10 Holiday Park or Hampshire Holiday Parks Wanaka for powered sites, hot showers, and easy access to the lakefront.
Day 2
Wānaka to Cromwell
Distance 55km - Driving Time 1 hour
It is a short, scenic hop into the heart of Central Otago. Vineyards, golden hills, and the shimmer of Lake Dunstan announce your arrival in Cromwell, home of the Northburn 100. With an easy day behind the wheel, you will have plenty of time for a relaxed lunch, a gentle pre-event jog, or a spin along a section of the famed Lake Dunstan Trail.
Where to stop between Wānaka and Cromwell
Lake Hāwea Lookouts: A brief detour for glacier-blue lake views.
Luggate Red Bridge: A quick heritage photo stop crossing the Clutha River.
Cromwell Heritage Precinct: Stroll historic shopfronts and lakeside boardwalks before checking in.
Things to do in Cromwell
Pick up race packs if applicable, then explore nearby trails. The Bannockburn Sluicings loop leads through striking, gold rush era terrain carved by historic hydraulic sluicing, with thyme-scented air in season. For a short, sharp viewpoint, climb the 45th Parallel Track to look over the Cromwell Basin and Lake Dunstan. If wheels call, ride an out-and-back section of the Lake Dunstan Trail and duck into a cellar door for Central Otago pinot and platters. Non-racers can choose from easy lakeside walks, paddleboarding, or café-hopping beneath sun-warmed schist hills.
Where to stay in Cromwell
Choose Clyde Holiday Park about 25 minutes away for a quieter riverside setting, or opt for Alexandra Holiday Park for easy access to shops and the Clutha Mata-au River trails. Both offer powered sites suited to campervans.
Day 3
Cromwell
Distance 30km - Driving Time 0.5 hours
Today is about the Northburn 100 experience. Whether you are toeing the line for the marathon or ultramarathon, crewing for a friend, or cheering from the aid stations, you will feel the energy of the running community in this rugged, beautiful landscape. Non-racing companions can explore local trails, markets, and vineyards while keeping an eye on live splits and finish line celebrations.
Things to do in Cromwell
If you are racing, fuel up at local cafés and keep the afternoon light, perhaps with a gentle stroll at the lakefront. Not racing? Hike the Bannockburn Sluicings for Mars-like scenery or wander Cromwell Heritage Precinct’s galleries and boutiques. As the sun drops, the hills glow honey-gold and the air cools, setting a perfect scene for post-race stories and a hearty dinner.
Where to stay in Cromwell
Settle in again at Clyde Holiday Park for its peaceful riverside vibe, or base at Alexandra Holiday Park to be close to eateries and the river paths for a recovery stroll.
Day 4
Cromwell to Twizel
Distance 140km - Driving Time 2 hours
Leave the vines behind and roll over the high country of the Lindis Pass, where tawny slopes sweep to the horizon. The scenery shifts as you enter the Mackenzie Country, with big-sky views and luminous alpine lakes that hint at the mountain giants ahead. Twizel makes a superb base for exploring Aoraki Mount Cook National Park tomorrow.
Where to stop between Cromwell and Twizel
Lindis Pass Lookout: A classic photo stop of braided valleys and rolling tussock.
Omarama Clay Cliffs: Short detour to walk among cathedral-like pinnacles carved by water and time.
Hot Tubs Omarama: Optional soak to revive legs with a view of the hills.
Things to do in Twizel
Stroll the canals or lakefront paths at Lake Ruataniwha, often glassy in the evening light. Runners can trot an easy section of the Alps 2 Ocean cycle trail to keep the legs ticking. Stock up on supplies for tomorrow’s national park adventure, and step outside after dark for vivid stargazing in this renowned night sky region.
Where to stay in Twizel
Park up at Twizel Holiday Park for powered sites and a central location, or base yourself closer to the mountains at Glentanner Park near Aoraki Mount Cook for alpine views and quick access to trailheads.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Day 5
Aoraki to Mount Cook National Park
Distance 100km - Driving Time 2 hours
Set aside a full day to bask in New Zealand’s highest alpine realm. Snow-capped summits, swing bridges, and milky-blue rivers make this one of the country’s most photogenic hiking destinations. It balances big-mountain drama with accessible trails.
Things to do in Aoraki Mount Cook
Walk the Hooker Valley Track, a mostly flat trail that usually crosses several swing bridges to a glacier lake often dotted with icebergs, with Aoraki Mount Cook towering ahead. Note that bridge works and erosion can affect access on this track at times, so check the current status and consider alternatives if sections are closed. For a shorter outing, the Kea Point Track climbs gently to a lookout above the Mueller Glacier moraines. You can also visit the Tasman Glacier viewpoints to see the long sweep of New Zealand’s largest glacier and its lake. If you prefer to keep it light, stop at Lake Pukaki’s turquoise viewpoints on the way in or out and enjoy a picnic with an unbeatable backdrop.
Where to stay in Aoraki Mount Cook region
Return to your base at Twizel Holiday Park for the night, or stay at Glentanner Park again to wake up to mountain silhouettes and an early start for sunrise photography.
Day 6
Twizel to Ōamaru
Distance 145km - Driving Time 2 hours
From alpine blue to coastal charm, today traces the Waitaki Valley past hydro lakes and limestone country to the quirky, creative town of Ōamaru. This is a gentler driving day with plenty of character-filled stops, ideal for those seeking art, heritage, and wildlife.
Where to stop between Twizel and Ōamaru
Lake Benmore and Lake Aviemore: Pullouts for water views and short leg-stretches.
Kurow: Boutique vineyards and a quick café stop in a sleepy rural town.
Elephant Rocks near Duntroon: Curious limestone boulders scattered across farmland, a favourite with photographers.
Things to do in Ōamaru
Wander the Victorian Precinct’s grand stone buildings, galleries, and artisan shops, then peek into steampunk inspired art spaces for whimsical inventions and displays. As dusk approaches, book an evening viewing with Ōamaru Penguins to watch the world’s smallest penguins splash ashore and waddle to their nests. It is a quiet, magical wildlife moment for all ages.
Where to stay in Ōamaru
Ōamaru TOP 10 Holiday Park offers powered sites close to town. Alternatively, Waitaki Waters Holiday Park places you near the river mouth for a peaceful coastal evening.
Image: Tourism New Zealand
Day 7
Ōamaru to Dunedin
Distance 115km - Driving Time 1.5 hours
Follow the Otago coast south to Dunedin, a lively university city with a proud Scottish heritage. The short drive leaves ample time to explore an eclectic mix of street art, cafés, and wild peninsulas that jut into the Pacific.
Where to stop between Ōamaru and Dunedin
Moeraki Boulders: Giant, near-spherical stones scattered along Koekohe Beach, best seen at lower tide.
Kātiki Point Lighthouse: Chance to spot fur seals and, with luck, yellow-eyed penguins from the clifftop track.
Karitane: A beach break for a walk on golden sand and a coffee from the local general store.
Things to do in Dunedin
Stroll the compact city centre to see bold murals and heritage buildings, then tackle the short but punchy ascent of Baldwin Street, famed for its steepness. Craft beer fans will find excellent taprooms, while beach lovers can head to St Clair Esplanade for surf views and a seaside promenade. If culture calls, visit the museum district or wander the historic university campus.
Where to stay in Dunedin
Base yourself at Dunedin Holiday Park near St Kilda Beach for powered sites close to the city. For a quieter setting on the wildlife rich peninsula, try Portobello Village Tourist Park.
Day 8
Dunedin
Distance 70km - Driving Time 2 hours
Give the wheels a rest from long hauls and dedicate a full day to the Otago Peninsula’s wildlife and windswept cliffs. The mix of city and coast makes Dunedin an easy place to slow down, sip great coffee, and let curiosity lead the way.
Things to do in Dunedin
Head to the tip of the peninsula to visit the royal albatross colony and watch giant seabirds ride the wind. Stop at Sandfly Bay for a short, sandy trail to a remote beach frequented by sea lions. Back in town, follow a heritage walk, pop into galleries, or ride the Signal Hill mountain bike tracks for a dose of flowy singletrack with harbour views. Sunset at Tunnel Beach is a highlight, with a short, steep trail leading to sea carved arches and sea stacks.
Where to stay in Dunedin
Stay a second night at Dunedin Holiday Park for convenience, or remain on the peninsula at Portobello Village Tourist Park if you plan a dawn wildlife start.
Day 9
Dunedin to Cromwell
Distance 220km - Driving Time 3 hours
Turn inland through classic Central Otago country where big skies and historic townships line the route back to Cromwell. This is a rewarding push through goldfields, river gorges, and rows of vines that make the region so beloved.
Where to stop between Dunedin and Cromwell
Lawrence: A gold rush town with a pretty main street, bakery treats, and a heritage trail.
Alexandra: Stretch your legs on the riverbank by the Shaky Bridge and admire the dry-country scenery.
Clyde: Wander the historic precinct and detour to the Clyde Dam lookout for a sweeping valley view.
Things to do in Cromwell
Back among vines and mountains, take a relaxed recovery ride or walk on the Lake Dunstan shoreline. If you missed it earlier, the Bannockburn Sluicings glow beautifully in late afternoon light. Foodies can graze at cellar doors or pick up local fruit from roadside stalls when in season.
Where to stay in Cromwell
For the night, book Clyde Holiday Park for a peaceful base near the Clutha Gold Trail, or choose Alexandra Holiday Park to be close to supermarkets and cafés.
Day 10
Cromwell to Queenstown
Distance 60km - Driving Time 1 hour
The final leg threads the Kawarau Gorge back to Queenstown. Keep the morning unhurried with a couple of scenic stops, then enjoy a last burst of alpine adventure in Queenstown before returning your camper.
Where to stop between Cromwell and Queenstown
Roaring Meg Lookout: Dramatic turquoise waters squeezed through the gorge. Gibbston Valley: Winery tastings or a short spin on the Queenstown Trail through vineyard country. Arrowtown: If time allows, wander the leafy avenues and riverside paths.
Things to do in Queenstown
Hike the Tiki Trail from the base of the gondola to Bob’s Peak for a panoramic finale over Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, or stroll Te Kararo Queenstown Gardens to play a round of disc golf among towering trees and floral beds. Runners will love the lakeside sections of the Queenstown Trail, and café lovers are spoiled for choice along the waterfront. It is the perfect place to raise a final toast to a big South Island loop well traveled.
Where to stay in Queenstown
If you are extending your trip, book a site at Queenstown TOP 10 Holiday Park in Arthurs Point or Queenstown Holiday Park Creeksyde for a central base. Otherwise, return your camper to the Queenstown branch and enjoy a celebratory meal in town.
This loop blends the thrill of Northburn’s rugged terrain with the South Island’s greatest hits: mirror lakes, alpine hikes, coastal wildlife, and sun drenched vineyards. It is designed for motorhome ease, minimal daily driving, and maximum time on trails and in nature. When you are ready, you can easily book your Apollo camper online and pick it up from your closest Apollo branch before hitting the road.