Driving in NZD South Island in Aug.?

Well it's always a risk to drive in winter but it's worth it. South island is more than worth it and it's good to take risks.

Most of the roads that you are permitted on with a rental vehicle will be open.

Only once in a while is a main road closed.

You won't need a 4x4 unless you are going off-road.

Hazards to watch for are snow and flooding.

If you have a campervan you also have to watch for wind..

In the North Island, the Desert Road may be closed for a few hours about half a dozen times each winter. If it is closed, it's usually only overnight.

In the South Island, the alpine passes can be closed with snow, again it's usually only overnight, but occasionally it may be for a day or 2.

These roads are: Lewis Pass, Arthurs Pass - Otira, Haast Pass, Lindis Pass and Burkes Pass.

Do NOT attempt to travel the Milford Road at that time of the year. Take the coach - it goes there and back every day. You will only get there, then get stuck there for the night. It is illegal to travel this road in winter without carrying chains, and the cops have the right to stop you to find out if you have them and if you know how to fit them and when to use them.

Drive very carefully on roads that don't see the sun. It is usually not until you've done a slide that you are aware of ice on the road. The real slippery ice is not visible, hence its name - black ice.

Otherwise-----have fun!

We drove around the South Island in June and was fine, but that was earlier in the season and we stuck to the north. If you are going to the South part of the South Island, then I would recommend that you find out what the road conditions are like at that time of year and suit your vehicle appropriately. Also check with the locals which routes are best, and always check before you head out for the day whether where you are going is safe. Some roads can get snowed in or closed so check the road is open before you set out for the day. You will need very warm clothes. I had seven layers on in June and was still Cold. In August I imagine it will be worse. I wouldn't let any of this put you off though. NZ is beautiful all year round, but is amazing when its covered in snow. Good luck and have fun.

No not a good idea. Parts would be good say from picton throught to Nelson and Kaiterteri it's beautiful there. Why not fly to Queenstown or take the Alpine train from christchurch . It's no fun driving in snow

Depending on where, I'd suggest a 4X4 vehicle and some snow chains and that does depend on where you plan to be driving. good luck