New Zealand - South Island - KaiKoura

Kaikoura is a beautiful city located at the eastern coast of South Island, between Christchurch and Picton. We stayed at YHA Kaikoura hostel which is highly recommended as it is located opposite the beautiful sea and mountain as shown below. It is also a place where seals hang out, just right in front of you!

New Zealand - South Island - Milford Sound

Road to Milford Sound is deemed one of the most scenic route in the world. You will not believe it till you experience it yourself, what to say when you are actually driving along it and snap pictures everywhere you want. But watch out for avalanche warnings where stopping is not allowed and check the weather condition before you depart. Recommended accommodation the night before Milford Sound tour is Te Anau. Below are the scenic view of the road leading to Milford Sound at the wee hour of the misty morning.

New Zealand - South Island - On the road to Queenstown & Milford Sound

New Zealand it is with its' amazing sceneries everywhere. Experience it truly with self-driving across its mountainous ranges. Below are some of the fantastic authentic New Zealand views:

New Zealand - South Island - Franz Josef Glacier

The next destination is the famous Franz Josef Glacier. It is learnt that the glacier was much longer but due to global warming, it had shortened. Hopefully this beauty will be preserved for generations. Staying at YHA Franz Josef against the majestic mountain is a memorable experience. As you step out from the hostel, snowy mountain can be seen against the clear sky.

New Zealand - South Island - Punakaiki Pancake Rocks Blowholes

After arriving Picton from North Island, our journey continues to the West of South Island. Our next stop is Punakaiki Pancake Rocks Blowholes. Discover the splendid rocks architecture carved by years of waves and winds in the man-made hiking route.

New Zealand - South Island

Crossing over from North Island of New Zealand to South Island provides spectacular view on the inter-island ferry ride. There are 2 companies providing the ferry services, mainly Interislander and Bluebridge.

If you are renting a car, it is advisable to make arrangement with the car rental company to return the car at Wellington before you board the ferry to South Island. After arriving Picton in South Island, you can pick up another car with the same rental company. This will save you bucks instead of transporting the same car over in the ferry.