Exploring New Zealand’s South Island - A 4WD Overland Journey
For years, we dreamed of an extended journey through New Zealand’s breathtaking South Island—taking the path less traveled, avoiding the main highways, and tackling the rugged backcountry. With no set plan, we let the weather guide us, taking on some of the most remote 4WD routes and stunning landscapes the country has to offer.
This 20-minute documentary captures the highs and lows of our overlanding adventure, from breakdowns and bad weather to unforgettable mountain valleys and coastal escapes.
Shot & Edited by Joel McDowell & Andrew Lewthwaite
Supported by Feldon Shelter, West Supply, Toyo Tires & Canon New Zealand
Highlights:
- Off-road 4WD adventure through NZ’s South Island
- Gravel roads, remote camping & stunning landscapes
- Unexpected challenges: breakdowns, an engagement, an axe accident & a root canal
- Milford Sound, Arthur’s Pass & the toughest terrain we faced
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Video Contents
00:00 - Intro
01:46 - Fitting out the vehicles & ferry delay
03:22 - First gravel roads in Southland
04:40 - Breakdown! Ford Ranger electrical issue
05:50 - A surprise engagement in Arthur’s Pass
06:33 - Overlanding on New Zealand’s dirt highways
07:09 - Emergency root canal—Jamie leaves
07:42 - The toughest 4WD day yet
08:45 - Searching for a campsite before bad weather
10:20 - A breathtaking drive to Milford Sound
12:23 - An axe accident & braving the wind
14:25 - Exploring NZ’s vast mountain valleys
16:04 - Beach driving, a bee sting & heading north
17:32 - Almost missing the ferry back
18:51 - Outro & reflections
Instagram
https://instagram.com/joelmcdowell
https://instagram.com/andrewlewthwaite
Websites
https://www.joelmcdowell.co
https://www.alpscreative.co.nz