How long does the trip from Invercargill to Queenstown take?

The journey typically takes around 6 to 8 hours depending on stops and traffic conditions.

Are there rest stops or sightseeing breaks included?

Yes, the service includes stops at scenic viewpoints for photo opportunities along the route.

Is luggage storage available on this trip?

Yes, there is space to store luggage safely on the vehicle during the journey.

Can I get picked up from my accommodation?

The tour offers door-to-door pick-up services within Invercargill and Queenstown.

Are food and drinks provided during the trip?

Passengers are encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks as onboard catering is limited.

Is the driver knowledgeable about local landmarks?

Absolutely, the drivers provide informative commentary about the region’s geography and history.

Scenic Invercargill to Queenstown Journey: A Top-Rated Southland Adventure

The journey from Invercargill to Queenstown unfolds as one of New Zealand’s most captivating travel experiences outside the famed Milford Sound. Operating along the southern spine of the South Island, this route offers expansive vistas of rugged mountains, shimmering lakes, and verdant valleys that showcase New Zealand’s wild beauty at every turn. The tour starts in Makarewa, a gateway in Southland, and winds northward through landscapes carved by glaciers and shaped by volcanic history. Travelers can expect panoramic views of the Southern Alps’ foothills, alongside rich farmlands and pristine waterways.

This ride isn’t just a transportation service — it’s a carefully curated adventure. Providing reliable door-to-door pick-up and a welcoming, knowledgeable driver, the tour ensures an easy and immersive way to experience this iconic stretch without the stress of driving or navigating. Unlike typical shuttle experiences, this journey is rated the #1 tour operator on TripAdvisor in 2021 and continues to win accolades through 2025, a testament to exceptional service and authentic local insight.

Along the way, passengers can marvel at the striking contrasts between the lush Southland lowlands and the dramatic alpine scenery near Queenstown. You’ll pass through areas rich in natural history, with geological formations from ancient rock beds to glacial valleys that hint at Southland’s dynamic earth science story. Though the route skips nearby destinations like Arrowtown and Arthurs Point, the direct Invercargill to Queenstown trip delivers concentrated exposure to the grandeur of the region’s landscapes.

Queenstown itself sits on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, framed by jagged peaks ideal for adrenaline-packed outdoor pursuits. This trip offers a perfect precursor for travelers eager to start their adventure here, from hiking and biking to water sports and cultural tours.

What sets this experience apart is its blend of comfort, convenience, and connection to place, all backed by repeat recognitions from travelers seeking more than just a ride. The driver’s local knowledge brings stories and context to the sights, enriching the journey and creating lasting memories. Whether you’re arriving to chase thrills in Queenstown or simply savor Southland’s wide-open spaces, this tour delivers an unmatched gateway into the soul of New Zealand’s southern wilderness.

Hop on for a ride that turns travel time into a highlight, not just a transfer, and discover why this route is a must-try for outdoor and adventure travelers visiting the South Island.