Southern Scenic Route Drive Road Trip Itinerary
The Southern Scenic Route Drive is an exciting four-day road trip that starts in Dunedin and ends in Te Anau in New Zealand. The journey is about 266 miles and is best experienced during the summer months, when the area is at its most beautiful. Along the route, travelers will enjoy breathtaking landscapes, from rolling hills and lush forests to picturesque lakes and soaring mountains. Highlights include the small town of Papatowai, with its stunning beach, and the bustling city of Invercargill. Although the roads are generally good, some sections are narrow, so drivers should take caution. Despite this, the route offers a very high level of experience, with plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories. This road trip is suitable for all drivers, although it is best experienced with a high budget in order to make the most of the attractions along the way.
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number of days
428 km
route length
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budget
family
good for
on the left
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Dunedin
Distance 428 km
Driving time 6.4 h
Pace: fast
128.4 kWh
Airports
DUD
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Dunedin is a vibrant city located in the Otago region of New Zealand's South Island. The city is the perfect starting point for the Southern Scenic Route Drive, a stunning road trip through some of New Zealand's most beautiful scenery.
Dunedin is renowned for its rich history and heritage, and visitors can explore the city's stunning architecture, including the iconic Dunedin Railway Station, one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand. Other popular attractions include the Otago Museum, which showcases the region's natural history, and the Chinese Garden, a tranquil Chinese-style garden with ponds and pavilions.
For those traveling by air, Dunedin International Airport (DUD) is located just 9 kilometers from the city center. Car rental is available at the airport, making it easy to begin the Southern Scenic Route Drive.
Dunedin is also a great place to be outdoors. The city is surrounded by beautiful beaches and wildlife reserves, and visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from surfing to mountain biking.
From its rich culture and history to its stunning outdoor activities, Dunedin is a great place to start the Southern Scenic Route Drive. With its convenient international airport and car rental options, it's easy to explore the city and its surrounds.
1
Dunedin
- Papatowai
Distance 135 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
40.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome, road-trippers! Join us on a journey from Dunedin, New Zealand to Papatowai, a destination just 84 miles and less than two hours away. Along the way, you will be able to take in the historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Otago Peninsula, stretching out into the Pacific Ocean, and take in the stunning views of the Catlins region. Stop by the nearby Nugget Point Lighthouse, one of the oldest in the country, and take a stroll along the beach. You can also find some of the best surfing spots in the area. As you drive along the winding roads of the Catlins, you will be able to spot some of the native wildlife, including sea lions, blue penguins, and dolphins. Don't forget to take a break at the Purakaunui Falls, a beautiful three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest. You can also explore the ancient forests of Waipohatu, a protected area with some of the oldest trees in the world. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, come and join us on this amazing road trip from Dunedin to Papatowai!
Papatowai - New Zealand - Oceania - Road Trip - Expedia
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2
Papatowai
- Invercargill
Distance 108 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: fast
32.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for a scenic road trip from Papatowai to Invercargill? This 67 mi journey will take you less than 2 hours and will provide you with a unique experience. As you travel along the route, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the most picturesque landscapes New Zealand has to offer.
From Papatowai, make sure you keep an eye out for The Catlins, an area of lush rainforest and stunning wildlife. As you continue your journey, you’ll also pass through the towns of Tuatapere, Riverton, and Bluff. Take some time to explore these charming towns, and uncover some of their historical sites.
As you reach Invercargill, you’ll be greeted with its iconic view of the Waihopai River. Make sure you take some time to explore the city and its many attractions.
This is just one of the stages of your journey, so make sure you take in all the sights and sounds that this unique region has to offer. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Invercargill - New Zealand - Oceania - Road Trip - Invercargill City Council
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3
Invercargill
- Te Anau
Distance 185 km
Driving time 2.6 h
Pace: fast
55.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Invercargill to Te Anau, a 115 mi (185 km) journey that will take you less than 3 hours? You will drive through stunning landscapes, with sections of narrow roads where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery. As you drive, make sure to pay attention to the road, as it is one of the most scenic stretches in New Zealand.
Along the way, you will stop in some of the most interesting places. In Invercargill, visit the Southland Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the region’s history and culture. Then, head to the Queens Park, a beautiful park with gardens, a lake, and plenty of wildlife.
In Te Anau, explore the Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or take a boat ride to the majestic Milford Sound. You can also visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves for a unique experience.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for an amazing journey through some of New Zealand’s most beautiful spots!
Te Anau - New Zealand - Oceania - Road Trip - www.teanau.net.nz
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Te Anau
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Te Anau, located in the South Island of New Zealand, is the perfect ending point for the Southern Scenic Route Drive. This picturesque town lies on the banks of the lake of the same name and offers stunning views of the mountains, forests and waters of the region.
The town of Te Anau is home to the famous Te Anau Glowworm Caves, where visitors can see thousands of glowworms in their natural environment. This is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. For those seeking outdoor activities, there are plenty of options, from sailing and kayaking on the lake, to hiking and mountain biking in the Fiordland National Park.
Te Anau is also home to some of New Zealand’s most renowned restaurants and cafes, offering some of the freshest and most delicious dishes in the country. There are also plenty of shops and galleries, perfect for picking up souvenirs to remember your trip.
For those arriving from overseas, the closest international airport is Queenstown Airport (ZQN), which is a two-hour drive away. From there, the Southern Scenic Route Drive will take you through some of New Zealand’s most beautiful scenery, eventually leading you to Te Anau.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an outdoor adventure, Te Anau is the perfect destination to end your Southern Scenic Route Drive. With its stunning landscape, delicious cuisine, and plenty of activities to choose from, Te Anau truly has something for everyone.
Te Anau - New Zealand - Oceania - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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Southern Scenic Route Drive Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Dunedin
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End:
Te Anau
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Distance:
428 km
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Stay:
4 days
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Getting there:
Dunedin Airport (DUD)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, May, October, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
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