janetro

In a few weeks we will be visiting the South Island. One day we will be driving from Christchurch to Fox Glacier and another day from Fox Glacier to Queenstown. We would like to make some stops along the way, hike etc.. Does anyone have recommendations on good hikes or other "must do" stops along the way? The days are short so we don't have a lot of time to work with. Thanks!

Melnq8

There are lots of places to stop, but do be aware both days are long drive days, so you'll be somewhat limited in that regard (Christchurch to Fox 5.5 hours, Fox to Queenstown about six hours).

You'll have about 10 hours of daylight in May.

For Christchurch to Fox - normally I'd mention Punakaiki, but it'll add 90 minutes of driving to an already full drive day, so I suggest Arthur's Pass instead - several options here:

http://tinyurl.com/gphkvtr

There are also a lot of options around Franz Josef, which you'll drive through on your way to Fox:

http://tinyurl.com/hyx5deb

Between Fox Glacier and Queenstown, I'd stick to those with easy access right from the highway, such as these:

http://tinyurl.com/hl3oklj

janetro

Wow - great information, thank you! You certainly are a wealth of knowledge!!!!!

Melnq8

Happy to help janetro. I love the South Island of NZ and I hope you do too.

deSchenke

Castle Hill, between Christchurch and Arthur's Pass, is a fun place to explore. Huge boulders to meander around and were used in the film, "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe."

Lake Matheson is a beautiful walk, just 5 minutes from Fox Glacier township. If it is a calm day, you'll get beautiful reflective views of Mounts Cook and Tasman.