Road-trip Across New Zealand’s South Islands
Kia ora! Were the first words uttered by the guy solely manning the car rental company at New Zealand. After soaking in spectacular sights of the Southern Alps & Canterbury plains while flying in to Christchurch from India, our ears perked up at the greeting as the anticipation build at what lay ahead for the road trip across the South Islands of New Zealand. We explored the purest natural landscapes of the South Islands across a 14 day road-trip that left us spell bound. Dotted with breathtaking scenery & stunning landscapes of snow capped mountains, fjords, icy glaciers & adrenalin-pumping adventures mixed with glimpses of the Maori culture, this trip makes you feel closer to nature. Driving in New Zealand is a pleasurable experience with fantastic roads, low traffic & courteous drivers. Hire a car or a camper van but do read driving guidelines before you start.
Major airlines connect India to Christchurch with airfares starting from INR 60,000 & Indian residents need to apply for visa in advance. The weather, especially in South Islands is acutely temperate hence its not uncommon to experience four seasons in a single day so travel with appropriate clothing. Cafes across New Zealand serve fantastic food and extremely good coffee or one can head to a local pub or bistro. Restaurants shut early in smaller towns though gas stations sell convenience food. A huge range of accommodation ranging from luxury hotels, premium lodges to motels can be hired as per choice.
We came back home from this road trip with beautiful memories, watched Lord of the Rings Trilogy & tried to point out a few spots to gushing relatives.
