South Island Road Trip: Safety, Tyre Tips, and Top Destinations

The South Island of New Zealand is a dream come true for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and anyone who enjoys the open road. From stunning mountain ranges to pristine lakes and glaciers, the South Island offers some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes in the world. Before you hit the road, it’s important to make sure your vehicle is ready for the trip. As a family-owned online tyre shop based in New Zealand, we’re here to not only give you some must-know safety and tyre tips for your road trip but also recommend some of the best places to visit while you’re in the South Island. Ready to explore? Let’s dive in!

Preparing for Your South Island Road Trip

Before embarking on a long road trip around the South Island, ensure your vehicle is in top shape. With the vast and sometimes remote terrain, having your tyres in optimal condition is crucial for both safety and performance. Here are a few key tips for preparing your tyres for the journey:

Check Your Tyres Before You Go

The first and most important step before any road trip is to check your tyres. Ensure that the tread depth is adequate, and the tyres are free from any bulges, cracks, or damage. A quick visual inspection can often reveal any issues that might compromise your safety on the road. If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to have a professional mechanic or fitter assess your tyres.

Your tyres are the only part of your vehicle that make direct contact with the road, so their condition can significantly impact your driving experience. Worn-out tyres with low tread depth are dangerous, especially on wet roads, where the risk of hydroplaning increases. Checking the tread depth with a tread gauge or a 20-cent coin can give you a quick indication of how much life your tyres have left.

Ensure Proper Tyre Pressure

Tyre pressure plays a huge role in the performance and fuel efficiency of your vehicle. Low tyre pressure can affect your handling, increase tyre wear, and reduce fuel efficiency, while over-inflated tyres can make your car more prone to damage from road hazards. Always check your tyre pressure before setting out and ensure it’s at the recommended level indicated in your car’s owner manual.

Tyre pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) are installed in many vehicles today, but it’s still a good idea to manually check your tyres using a tyre pressure gauge. Maintaining the right tyre pressure will not only keep you safe but also help you save on fuel costs during your road trip.

Consider Terrain-Specific Tyres

If you’re planning on visiting areas with rugged or off-road terrain, such as Fiordland National Park or the Southern Alps, it might be worth considering tyres designed for different conditions, such as all-terrain or mud tyres. These tyres offer better grip and durability on rougher, uneven surfaces.

All-terrain tyres are designed to perform well on both on-road and off-road surfaces, providing added traction on dirt roads and in more challenging conditions. If you’re planning to visit popular tourist spots like Franz Josef Glacier or the Catlins, where gravel roads are common, upgrading to all-terrain tyres could make a big difference to your safety and driving comfort.

Check Alignment and Suspension

A smooth and comfortable ride depends on more than just your tyres. Your vehicle’s alignment and suspension play a big part in ensuring your tyres wear evenly and your car handles well. If your vehicle pulls to one side or feels off-balance, it’s worth getting your wheel alignment checked before setting off.

Misaligned wheels can cause your tyres to wear unevenly, affecting their lifespan and your vehicle’s handling. A quick check-up before you head off on your South Island road trip can save you from costly repairs down the road and help you maintain safe handling throughout your trip.

Pack a Tyre Repair Kit

No one wants to get a flat tyre in the middle of nowhere, but having a tyre repair kit can save you in an emergency. Be sure to pack a kit with the essentials like a pump, puncture repair tools, and a space-saver tyre if you have one. While we hope you won’t need it, it’s always better to be prepared!

Flat tyres can happen to anyone, and in remote areas like Fiordland National Park or the Southern Alps, assistance might not be easily available. Having a basic tyre repair kit in your vehicle ensures that you can get back on the road quickly in case of a puncture.

Now that you’ve ensured your tyres are in good shape, it’s time to hit the road! Here are some of the best places to visit in the South Island, along with some exciting adventures to add to your itinerary.

Mirror Lake

One of the first stops we highly recommend on your South Island road trip is Mirror Lake, located just off the highway on the way to Queenstown. As the name suggests, the lake offers a stunning reflection of the surrounding mountains, creating a picture-perfect scene for photos. It’s an easy stop and a beautiful spot to stretch your legs.

Mirror Lake is located in Fiordland National Park, and it’s a short detour from the road. The area is known for its tranquil beauty, and the reflection of the Southern Alps in the water is truly breathtaking. A quick stroll around the lake allows you to soak in the serene surroundings and take plenty of photos. Don’t forget to capture the moment!

Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier

A visit to the Fox and Franz Josef glaciers is an absolute must for anyone travelling through the South Island. These glaciers are located on the West Coast and offer an incredible opportunity to experience New Zealand’s natural beauty up close. You can take a guided hike, or even a scenic flight, to get a bird’s eye view of these icy wonders. If you’re in the mood for adventure, a heli-hike allows you to land directly on the glaciers.

Fox Glacier and Franz Josef Glacier are two of the most famous glaciers in New Zealand. Both offer a range of experiences for travellers, from scenic walks to helicopter tours. The glaciers are located in a temperate rainforest, making them one of the most unique landscapes in the world. If you have the chance, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the glaciers up close!

Southern Alps and Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

For those seeking jaw-dropping mountain views, the Southern Alps are the heart of the South Island. A visit to Aoraki Mount Cook National Park is essential for hikers and nature lovers alike. The park offers a variety of great walks, including the famous Hooker Valley Track, which offers spectacular views of Mount Cook and the surrounding alpine landscape.

The Southern Alps offer some of the best hiking and mountaineering opportunities in New Zealand. Whether you’re interested in a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike, Aoraki Mount Cook National Park has something for everyone. The Hooker Valley Track is one of the most popular hikes, offering stunning views of glaciers, rivers, and the iconic Mount Cook.

Lake Matheson

Lake Matheson, near Fox Glacier, is famous for its stunning reflections of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. It’s a short walk around the lake, and the views are truly magical. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply a lover of nature, this is a must-visit location.

Lake Matheson is one of the most photographed lakes in New Zealand. The mirror-like surface of the lake provides the perfect opportunity to capture the majestic views of Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. A walk around the lake takes about an hour, and it’s a great way to stretch your legs and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Milford Sound

No South Island road trip would be complete without a visit to Milford Sound, one of the most iconic natural landmarks in New Zealand. Known for its dramatic fjords, waterfalls, and wildlife, Milford Sound is a paradise for those who love the outdoors. Take a boat cruise to get up close to the cliffs or explore the nearby hiking trails for a more immersive experience.

Milford Sound is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Zealand, and for good reason. The fjord offers stunning views of towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush rainforests. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also take a scenic flight over the fjord to experience it from above.

Queenstown

Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown offers adrenaline-pumping activities like bungee jumping, jet boating, and skydiving, as well as a vibrant town atmosphere. Situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Southern Alps, Queenstown also offers incredible natural beauty. Don’t miss the Skyline Gondola for breathtaking views or explore the nearby Remarkables mountain range for skiing and hiking.

Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park is a must-see for nature lovers. With dramatic fjords, towering mountains, and some of the best hiking trails in the country, it’s an ideal destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in New Zealand’s wild beauty. The famous Milford Track and Routeburn Track are located in the park and offer some of the most scenic walks in the world.

Fiordland National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers some of the most stunning landscapes in New Zealand. Whether you’re interested in hiking, boat tours, or simply taking in the views, this park is a must-visit on your South Island road trip.

Marlborough

Famous for its world-class wineries and the Marlborough Sounds, this region is perfect for wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Take a scenic drive through the rolling vineyards, or hop on a boat to explore the intricate waterways of the Marlborough Sounds, a paradise for kayaking, fishing, and wildlife spotting. Be sure to sample some Sauvignon Blanc, which the region is renowned for globally.

Abel Tasman National Park

Located in the Tasman region, Abel Tasman National Park is a coastal haven of golden beaches, turquoise waters, and lush forests. Known for the Abel Tasman Coast Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, this area is perfect for hiking, kayaking, and spotting wildlife like seals and dolphins. Whether you spend a day or a week, the park’s stunning scenery is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Kaikoura

This coastal town is a hotspot for marine life encounters, including whale watching, dolphin swimming, and seal spotting. Nestled between the rugged Kaikoura Ranges and the Pacific Ocean, Kaikoura also offers dramatic landscapes and delicious local seafood, particularly the famous crayfish (lobster).

Punakaiki (Pancake Rocks and Blowholes)

Located on the West Coast, Punakaiki is famous for its Pancake Rocks, a unique limestone formation that resembles stacks of pancakes. The blowholes, which spout seawater dramatically into the air during high tide, are a natural spectacle you won’t want to miss.

Blenheim and the Marlborough Sounds

Blenheim is another gateway to Marlborough’s famed wine region, offering picturesque vineyard views and boutique cellar doors. From Blenheim, you can also explore the Queen Charlotte Track, which winds through the scenic Marlborough Sounds and is popular for hiking and cycling.

Nelson

As the sunniest city in New Zealand, Nelson is a vibrant hub for art, craft, and outdoor adventures. It’s the perfect base for exploring Abel Tasman National Park, the Nelson Lakes National Park, and the stunning beaches along the Tasman Bay.

Hanmer Springs

A relaxing stop, Hanmer Springs is known for its thermal pools and spa, offering a perfect opportunity to unwind. Surrounded by mountains and forests, it’s also a great place for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying the natural hot springs.

Before you set off on your adventure

The South Island of New Zealand is an unforgettable destination for road trippers, offering some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re taking in the stunning views of Milford Sound, exploring the glaciers of the West Coast, or hiking in the Southern Alps, your South Island road trip will surely be a journey to remember.

And don’t forget to check your tyres and make sure your vehicle is ready for the road. At Tyre Shop Online, we’re here to provide you with the best tyres to keep you safe and comfortable on your journey.

Traveling to the North Island? Check out our blog for tips! Safe travels and enjoy the South Island!

Happy Motoring!