3 day itinerary for South Island. New Zealand

Itinerary

A three-day adventure in New Zealand's South Island sounds like a fantastic way to explore the stunning landscapes while enjoying some outdoor activities, even with an infant in tow. Plus, geocaching will add an exciting twist to your journey! Let’s dive into an ideal itinerary that balances outdoor fun with the needs of your little one.

## Day 1: Christchurch to Lake Tekapo

Morning:

• Start in Christchurch: Grab some breakfast at a local café. The city has some lovely spots like C1 Espresso or The Coffee House.
• Drive to Lake Tekapo: It’s about a 3-hour drive (227 km). The scenery along the way is breathtaking, so make sure to take breaks for photos and fresh air!

Afternoon:

• Arrive at Lake Tekapo: Once you arrive, take a stroll along the lakefront. The turquoise waters are stunning, and there are plenty of spots to set up a picnic if you want to enjoy lunch outdoors.
• Geocaching: Check out the local geocaching spots around the lake. There are a few hidden treasures near the Church of the Good Shepherd that are family-friendly and easy to access.

Evening:

• Stargazing: Lake Tekapo is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, so if your infant is settled, consider a short evening walk to enjoy the stars. Just make sure to bundle up, as it can get chilly at night!
• Sleep in the car: Find a safe and quiet spot to park for the night. There are designated areas for freedom camping, but make sure to check local regulations.

## Day 2: Lake Tekapo to Mount Cook National Park

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast with a view of the lake. You can prepare something simple in your car or grab a bite at a local café.
• Drive to Mount Cook: It’s about a 1-hour drive (40 km) to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. The scenery is jaw-dropping, so keep your camera handy!

Afternoon:

• Explore the Park: Once you arrive, take a short, family-friendly walk on the Hooker Valley Track. It’s about a 3-hour return walk, but you can turn back whenever you feel it’s time. The views of Mount Cook and the glacier are absolutely worth it!
• Geocaching: There are several geocaches along the track. Just make sure to check the difficulty level and choose ones that are suitable for a stroller or baby carrier.

Evening:

• Picnic Dinner: Pack a picnic dinner to enjoy at one of the scenic spots in the park. The sunset views are incredible!
• Sleep in the car: Find a quiet area in the park to park for the night. Just be sure to follow any camping regulations.

## Day 3: Mount Cook to Queenstown

Morning:

• Early Breakfast: Have a hearty breakfast in the car while soaking in the morning views of Mount Cook.
• Drive to Queenstown: It’s about a 3-hour drive (around 200 km). You’ll pass through some beautiful landscapes, so take your time and stop for photos!

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Queenstown: Once you arrive, take a leisurely stroll around the lakefront. There are plenty of parks and open spaces for your infant to enjoy.
• Geocaching: Check out the geocaching options in Queenstown. There are several caches hidden around the waterfront and nearby parks.

Evening:

• Dinner: Treat yourself to a meal at one of Queenstown’s family-friendly restaurants. Fergburger is a popular choice, but there are plenty of options to suit your taste.
• Sleep in the car: Find a safe spot to park for the night. There are several camping grounds around Queenstown that are suitable for car sleeping.

Tips for Traveling with an Infant:

• Pack Smart: Bring a comfortable baby carrier for hikes and a stroller for flat walks. Don’t forget essentials like diapers, wipes, and snacks!
• Take Breaks: Plan for plenty of breaks during drives to stretch, feed, and change your little one.
• Stay Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your plans based on your infant’s needs. Sometimes a nap in the car is the best plan!

This itinerary should give you a great mix of outdoor adventure, stunning scenery, and geocaching fun while keeping it manageable with an infant. Enjoy your trip to the South Island—it's going to be an unforgettable experience! Safe travels! 🌄🚗✨