It’s Time for a Summer Road Trip with an International Twist

It’s time to up the ante on your summer road trip with an international driving getaway. The allure of taking to the open road has never been more apparent.

In April, a travel tip website The Vacationer anonymously polled 1,096 Americans to learn about their summer vacation plans. According to the results, nearly 80% say they’re planning to take a road trip. A domestic, all-American road trip sounds great; however, why not dream a little bigger? Consider taking your road trip further afield.

Explore New Zealand’s Great Coast Road

Need some inspiration? New Zealand, known for its stunning natural grandeur, is best explored by car. Among the many beautiful sights to see in New Zealand, the Great Coast Road offers an adventure well worth the journey.

This renowned coastal drive has ranked in the top 10 coastal drives worldwide, according to Lonely Planet. With breathtaking scenery reminiscent of Big Sur, you’ll find wild crashing waves to the right and lush rainforests to the left along this scenic stretch of State Highway 6. The drive can be explored in either direction, but a popular option is to start in Westport and venture south to Greymouth.

Must-See Stops Along the Way

There are plenty of salty vistas along the way, ideal for stopping to enjoy the views and breathe in fresh ocean air. Typically, the drive takes around 90 minutes. However, it is recommended to slow down and enjoy the journey, as there are numerous beaches and hidden spots worth exploring.

Some road-trippers may take a detour to Cape Foulwind to see the seal colonies or catch a wave at Nine Mile Beach. Additionally, many visit the historic goldfields in Charleston as their first port of call.

One of the most popular stops on the drive is the Paparoa National Park, located just 35 miles south of Westport. This park is famed for one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Paparoa Track, suitable for multi-day, lodge-based hikes.

If you’re on a day trip, consider the Truman Track, a short 30-minute round trip hike through a magnificent subtropical rainforest leading to the Tasman Sea. This hike showcases waterfalls, panoramic coastal views, and unique native plant life, including the national fern, nikau palms, and rimu.

Venturing five minutes further south, you’ll reach one of the most-visited natural attractions in the West Coast region: the Pancake Rocks at Dolomite Point near Punakaiki. These ancient limestone formations, created 30 million years ago, resemble stacks of pancakes protruding into the sea. You can also witness the stunning Putai Blowhole, which shoots sea spray high into the sky.

Where to Dine After Your Journey

After navigating Punakaiki, continue along the coast and pull over for a refreshing swim at one of the many picturesque beaches. If your drive has made you hungry, consider stopping at Hokitika, a vibrant destination for food enthusiasts just 23 miles south of Greymouth.

Gatherer Wholefoods & Bar is a fantastic dining option, known for its variety of Mexican-influenced, plant-based dishes. If you find yourself there in March, don’t miss the famous Wildfoods Festival, where you can sample adventurous local cuisine, including unique offerings like pukeko and huhu grubs.

Moreover, as of May 1, vaccinated travelers from visa waiver countries can visit New Zealand, making it an excellent time to consider a visit and embark on an exhilarating road trip unlike any other.