Famous throughout the world for its diverse landscapes – ranging from towering Alps and bountiful plains, to imposing glaciers and crystal waters, South Island in New Zealand is extraordinarily beautiful. Most of all, it is a place which calls for being discovered by road. It is advisable to hire a luxury car in order to enjoy the magnificence of these stretches with ease and comfort. Though there is hardly a route in the island which is not abounding in scenic beauty, the following three must not be missed on a road trip:

Motueka- Collingwood: 

This 107km drive on State Highway 60 over the crest of Takaka Hilll is as adventurous as it can get. It includes views of the glacier laden Takaka valley, mountains of Kahurangi National Park and the distant Farewell Spit. Follow the side road in Upper Takaka and discover New Zealand’s deepest vertical shaft, the Harwood’s Hole. Lying 11 miles from the green town of Motueka is Marahau which is home to the popular Abel Tasman National Park.

This trip will take you past Kaiteriteri Beach, whose beauty visitors swear by. From locating the source of Riwaka River, enjoying the sparkling Pupu Springs, relaxing at Paton’s Rock, Tukurua, and Parapara, a drive from Motueka to Collingwood offers much to do, enjoy and remember.

Christchurch- Motunau Beach- Kaikoura: 

From little roadside cafes to the many blind turns along the road, countless hidden delights await you in the drive from Christchurch to Kaikoura.

This 196 km drive, mostly through State Highway 1, includes driving through Motunau Island which is one of the best spots for diving and fishing in South Island. This route goes past Amberly, the reserve of Mata Kopau Lagoon, Hundalees, and the Conway river among other things. It is particularly famous for its brilliant ecotourism as well as the photographing opportunities that it provides. Do not forget to indulge in unique activities such as whale watching, photographing sunbathing seals, and rock-pool gazing.

Christchurch-  Culverden- Hanmer- Maruia Springs- Reefton- Westport – Punakaiki- Greymouth- Arthur’s Pass- Christchurch: 

The Westport to Greymouth leg of this route is considered the world’s second greatest drive (the first being Corniche). With luscious wild green landscaping on one side and soothing turquoise seas on the other, this drive encompasses the best of both worlds. State Highway 1 leads to State Highway 7 which will take you to places exhibiting the best of nature, such as Maruia Springs and Reefton. One of the most fascinating things about this route is that it is spectacular in any season.

While summers are ideal for a road trip, Autumn allows you to enjoy the Lewis Pass strewn with red-golden leaves. Reefton will take you to the gorgeous Buller Gorge road and the latter to Cape Foulwind. The views are all stupendous along this long drive with Arthur’s Pass side becoming the West Coast Highway.