South Island Explorer
New Zealand’s South Island is a paradise for motorcyclists, with roads that weave through dramatic mountains, past turquoise lakes, and along rugged coastlines. Leaving Christchurch, you have so many roads and destinations to explore heading north, west or south.
To the south, there’s Queenstown, and from there to Milford Sound which is legendary, passing through Fiordland’s towering peaks, deep valleys, and the dramatic Homer Tunnel before revealing the fjord’s awe-inspiring beauty.
Around Queenstown and Wanaka, riders can enjoy winding alpine roads framed by the Southern Alps and Lake Wakatipu.
On the West Coast, the route from Franz Josef Glacier to Hokitika offers wild coastline, rainforests, and glacier views, while Arthur’s Pass provides thrilling mountain riding across to Canterbury. Further south, the Catlins coastal road delivers raw ocean scenery and waterfalls.
Every turn on the South Island brings unforgettable vistas, making it a rider’s dream. The good news is you can visit and ride in New Zealand on your own Australian-registered bike for up to 12 months on a Temporary Import Permit, provided you keep your bike registered and only ride it for personal use.
On arrival, your bike and gear will be ready to collect from our Lyttelton depot near Christchurch on the South Island. Departure is from the same depot, with your bike needing to be delivered 7 days prior to departure (ETD).
*Please note, planned arrival and departure dates may change slightly due to vessel scheduling, but we’ll keep you informed of any date changes.
We provide up to 5 days of secure, free storage for your bike at our depot, if needed. Longer-term storage is also available.
Burt Munro Challenge – February 2027
Following the success of the 2005 movie about Burt Munro’s inspirational life – “The World’s Fastest Indian”, the Southland Motorcycle Club created the Burt Munro Challenge to honour Burt, his ingenuity, determination, and love of speed and motorcycles.
Held in early February since 2006, the event has now forged a name for itself as one of New Zealand’s major motorsport festivals and a must-visit for all motorcycle enthusiasts. More details here: Burt Munro Challenge