South Island, New Zealand Travel Guide
Courtesy of Wei Hao Ho | Getty Images
12 Best Things To Do in South Island, New Zealand
This attractions guide was written by Leena Tailor , a New Zealand travel expert, in collaboration with U.S. News & World Report editors . Read U.S. News Insider Tips for first-hand advice on our favorite attractions.
From adrenaline-pumping
- All Things To Do
Milford Sound Milford Sound free
Does soaring over mesmerizing mountains dotted with goats, sipping Champagne atop remote glaciers, driving through lush forest and gliding through serene fjords tickle your fancy? It's all in a day's fun in magical Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, which is a roughly 180-mile drive northwest of Queenstown . Famously dubbed the "eighth wonder of the world" by novelist Rudyard Kipling, the soothing beauty of the Fiordland spot attracted more than 1 million visitors annually pre-COVID-19 and is now the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate at the hands of nature. Past visitors used words like "spectacular" and "stunning" to describe the scenery and waterfalls of Milford Sound.
Once only accessible by foot or boat, Milford Sound is now an easy daytrip from Queenstown by car, tour bus or scenic flight. Snaking along the edges of New Zealand's longest lake, Lake Wakatipu, the 3.5-hour drive feels like it's taking place against green screen scenery. Several companies, such as Altitude Tours , offer combination packages that include a bus ride, a boat cruise and a scenic flight. J.R.R. Tolkien fans will love the photo stop at "Lord of the Rings" filming location Eglinton Valley after arriving to Fiordland National Park, where silver beech, rata and totara trees form welcoming canopies.
Maori Cultural Experiences Maori Cultural Experiences
According to Maori myths and legends, a demigod named Maui was fishing with his brothers from a canoe – which is now known as the South Island – when he hooked a giant catch: the massive piece of land now known as the North Island. The country's indigenous Maori people arrived in Aotearoa from Hawaiki more than 1,000 years ago, led by explorer Kupe.
To learn about Maori culture, start in the Christchurch/Canterbury region with a Whale Watch Kaikoura tour, where you can look out for giant sperm whales while learning about Paikea, a Maori ancestor who arrived in Aotearoa riding a whale many centuries ago. Then head to Waka on Avon (aka KoTane) where you'll paddle a traditional waka (a canoe) and learn what life was like for Maori settlers prior to European arrival. The region also features Maori rock art sites, where early settlers painted on limestone caves, and the Te Ana Maori Rock Art Centre , where members of the Ngai Tahu iwi (tribe) educate visitors on their ancestors' artwork.
Christchurch and Canterbury Christchurch and Canterbury free
Located in the Central South Island, the Canterbury/Waitaha region will keep you busy for days with activities for every traveler and season.
Christchurch/Otautahi, the largest city in the South Island, has admirably rebuilt following a destructive 2011 earthquake, with the Cardboard Cathedral (the only cathedral in the world built predominantly with cardboard) just one example of its creative resilience. Aoraki/Mount Cook, which is New Zealand's tallest mountain and part of the Southern Alps range, is located a little more than 200 miles southwest of Christchurch. Deemed a South Island must-do by tourists, the area has alpine tracks for all experience levels, but hikers should be conscious that weather conditions can change dramatically. The TranzAlpine Train , which travels from Christchurch to Greymouth, is another great way to journey through the alps, while scenic flights are also an option with companies like Southern Alps Air .
Popular Tours
Cruise Milford NZ Small Boutique Cruise Experience
(1959 reviews)
from $ 94.42
Milford Sound Scenic Fly-Cruise-Fly departing Queenstown
(720 reviews)
from $ 408.73
Milford Sound Coach & Cruise tour from Queenstown
(219 reviews)
from $ 148.92
Queenstown Queenstown free
U.S. News Insider Tip: If you visit Walter Peak High Country Farm, leave ample time to stroll its stunningly beautiful lakefront garden – the perfect location to snap a new profile photo. – Leena Tailor, Contributor, Travel
The birthplace of commercial bungee jumping, Queenstown/ Tahuna is considered the "adventure capital of the world," but there's so much more to this resort town than thrill-seeking. Nestled against Lake Wakatipu, the city's name has been linked with being fit for Queen Victoria and has hosted royals like Prince William, Kate Middleton and Queen Elizabeth II, as well as celebrities like Reese Witherspoon and Justin Bieber.
South Island Film Tourism South Island Film Tourism free
It's been two decades since Peter Jackson's "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy cemented New Zealand's place as a Hollywood filming hot spot, and continuing growth of the screen sector has only boosted film tourism.
More than 150 locations were used to create Middle-earth, and while the Hobbiton Movie Set remains a popular North Island location, the South Island is home to much of the stunning scenery featured in "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" trilogies. In the Nelson Tasman region, helicopter tours provide a bird's-eye view into Dimrill Dale (Mount Olympus and Mount Owen), where the fellowship took cover when Saruman unleashed black crows. By car, you can drive to Takaka Hill, which doubled as Chetwood Forest (where hobbits tried to escape the Black Riders). Marlborough's Pelorus River is where dwarves rode down the river in barrels in "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug." You can swap the barrel for a kayak to experience the river ride yourself with a tour company like Pelorus Eco Adventures.
Abel Tasman National Park Abel Tasman National Park free
From the moment you lay eyes on the pristine beige sands and idyllic aqua waters of the town of Kaiteriteri, Abel Tasman National Park will stun. At more than 55,000 acres, it may be Aotearoa's smallest national park, but it's a nature-lovers utopia perfect for relaxing or adventuring with hiking excursions, water activities, canyoning trips and wildlife experiences.
If you've only got time for a daytrip, water taxi companies like Abel Tasman Aqua Taxi offer tours that mix sightseeing by water with walking some of the park's famed tracks (or hikes). For those with more time, the Abel Tasman Coast Track takes three to five days and meanders through forests and beaches. Summer months are busy, so previous visitors advise booking smaller campsites – such as Onetahuti Bay Campsite – and bringing insect repellant. If you're looking for a quieter section of the track, try the lesser-trodden Totaranui to Wainui leg, which stretches for approximately 10 miles.
South Island Wine-tasting South Island Wine-tasting
U.S. News Insider Tip: If you drive through Cromwell, known as the Fruit Capital of New Zealand, be on the lookout for roadside fruit stands and stores like Mrs Jones' Fruit Stall – where browsing for peaches can be interrupted by staff whisking you out back for free fruit port and 7th Heaven wine tastings. – Leena Tailor, Contributor, Travel
New Zealand is home to award-winning wines, and where better to enjoy them than the postcard-worthy places they're produced in? Even nondrinkers can enjoy the alluring settings of regions like Central Otago and Marlborough, where wineries like Giesen Wines and Ara offer nonalcoholic wine.
Dunedin Dunedin free
Situated on the coast about 175 miles southeast of Queenstown , the well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian town of Dunedin/Otepoti is home to the world's steepest street (Baldwin Street), heritage sites like St. Paul's Cathedral and the country's only castle, Larnach Castle. The castle was built in 1871 by merchant banker and politician William Larnach. Today, it's owned by the Barker family, who restored the buildings and offer tourist entry and various accommodation options. While the castle entry fee (NZ$39 or about $25 for visitors ages 15 and older) felt pricey to some recent visitors, the castle's surrounding 7 acres of gardens and its high tea come highly recommended.
For a smaller scale peek into Dunedin's history, the Olveston Historic Home was built for local businessman and philanthropist David Theomin in the early 1900s. Designed by English architect Sir Ernest George, the 35-room mansion features art and antiques from around the world and largely remains as it was lived in by the Theomin family. Past visitors praised its preserved architecture and interiors and highly recommend the guided tour thanks to the knowledgeable, personable guides.
Lake Whakatipu Cruise & BBQ Buffet Lunch
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from $ 110.90
Milford Sound Cruise Including Underwater Observatory
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from $ 104.56
Small Group, Award Winning, Full Day Milford Sound Experience from Queenstown
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from $ 189.47
South Island Stargazing South Island Stargazing free
Starry skies, hot pools and a side of the southern lights? New Zealand's low light pollution levels make it ideal for stargazing, particularly once you venture away from the bright lights of big cities. So, it should come as no surprise that several sites are certified IDA International Dark Sky Reserves, Parks or Sanctuaries by the International Dark-Sky Association.
The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve – located about 160 miles from both Queenstown and Christchurch – is the largest reserve in the Southern Hemisphere (at approximately 1,700 square miles). Dark Sky Project offers guided experiences from Lake Tekapo (within the reserve), including a summit stargazing experience at the top of Mount John. While some visitors have warned of the late start time (between 11 p.m. and 1:15 a.m.), they agree it's worth the late night. Visitors can also opt for an indoor, daytime session which also covers Maori astronomy , like how the reappearance of a cluster of stars named Matariki signals Maori New Year.
Stewart Island Stewart Island
Sitting less than 20 miles south of South Island across the Foveaux Strait, Steward Island is New Zealand's third-largest island. An hourlong ferry ride from the South Island's southernmost town of Bluff, or a 20-minute flight from nearby Invercargill, the lesser-trodden paths of Stewart Island/Rakiura are popular for bird-watching and hiking .
There are more than 170 miles of walking tracks, from short strolls to multiday treks like the three-day Rakiura Track. The island is home to around 400 locals, but they're outnumbered by the country's native flightless bird, the kiwi, while blue penguins and yellow-eyed penguins also frequent the area. Ulva Island, accessible by water taxi, is also home to various native New Zealand birds.
South Island Hiking South Island Hiking free
Whether it's through forests, along coastlines, up mountains or through farmland, the South Island offers hiking treks (called "tracks") for every preference and skill level. The country has 10 Great Walks (multiday tracks selected for their scenery, cultural significance and accessibility) and between the "Great Walks Season" of October to April, hikers can book the Department of Conservation's huts along each track. Pricing for track access and campsites varies and can be found online . While the tracks are easy to follow and many visitors walk them alone, tourists can also opt for guided walks with companies like Great Walks of New Zealand .
Two of these walks are in the hikers' paradise of the Nelson-Tasman region (which sits in the north): the Heaphy Track and the Abel Tasman Coast Track , where you can alternate walking with kayaking or catching water taxis. A favorite among tourists, the Abel Tasman trek is busy during summer months so it if you want to avoid the crowds, book smaller campsites or hit less crowded sections, such as the segment between Totaranui and Wainui.
South Island Skiing and Snowboarding South Island Skiing and Snowboarding
The South Island has two key ski areas – Queenstown/Wanaka and Christchurch/Canterbury .
Queenstown and Wanaka come alive during winter months at ski resorts like Cardrona , Treble Cone , Coronet Peak , The Remarkables and Snow Farm . The ski season typically runs from June to October – one of the longest seasons in the Southern Hemisphere – and the resorts are all within a 90-minute drive from central Queenstown.
Explore More of South Island, New Zealand
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The Best Places to Visit on New Zealand’s South Island: A Definitive List
- 26 April 2022 23 May 2023
The South Island of New Zealand may be one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Filled with lush hot springs, incredible mountains, and quirky towns, there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a weeks-long road trip or a weekend getaway, here is an ultimate list of the 33 best places to visit on the South Island !
Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. When you purchase through links on my site, I may make a small commission (at no extra cost to you!).
Stewart Island
Currency & budget, best places to visit on the south island.
Region : Marlborough
Situated just across the Cook Strait from Wellington, Picton will be your first destination if you’re coming on a ferry from the North Island. This quaint little town is the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds and offers a lot in the way of boating, hiking, and outdoor activities. There are also tons of scenic spots for those that appreciate a good view!
Where to stay in Picton : Picton Beachcomber Inn for an inexpensive option on Picton Harbour or Sennen House Boutique Bed & Breakfast for a unique colonial villa
Must-do activities : Hike the 6.5 km (4 mi) Tirohanga Track , take a boat cruise around the bay, and check out EcoWorld Aquarium for native fish and reptiles
Marlborough Sounds
The Marlborough Sounds are an extensive collection of sea-drowned valleys and inlets on the northern coast of the South Island. Known as a relaxing getaway destination, the Sounds are a great place to visit if you’re after some one-on-one time with nature.
Where to stay in the Sounds : Furneaux Lodge for a chic water-front resort or Lochmara Lodge for a casual stay with an underwater observatory
Must-do activities : Go fishing, paddle a kayak around the inlets, and hike part of the Queen Charlotte Track
This small town in the middle of New Zealand’s wine country is amazing for winos and foodies alike. With sunny weather that’s reminiscent of California’s Napa Valley , Blenheim is the perfect place to stroll through fancy vineyards and take in the scenery.
Where to stay in Blenheim : Marlborough Wine Barrel Cabins for a super-cute (and unique!) stay or 14th Lane Urban Hotel for a trendy retreat in the CBD
Must-do activities : Take a wine tour! There are both guided bus tour options and self-guided biking options — both are a blast.
Region : Nelson
Nelson is a charming city on Tasman Bay that’s known for its local art scene and close proximity to caving sites, wineries, and Abel Tasman National Park. It’s a good city to base yourself in if you want to explore the nearby regions as everything is relatively close by.
Where to stay in Nelson : Joya Garden & Villa Studios for self-contained B&Bs or Maitai Whare Iti for secluded cabins in the bush
Must-do activities : Take a day trip to Cable Bay , sample peanut butter at Pic’s Peanut Butter World , and relax on Tahunanui Beach
Abel Tasman National Park
Region : Tasman
Abel Tasman National Park is the most tropical feeling place in New Zealand’s South Island. Everywhere you look, you’ll be surrounded by yellow sand beaches, turquoise water, and super lush green forests. The park itself can be experienced as either a day trip or as a multi-day trip.
Where to stay in Abel Tasman : Abel Tasman Lodge for a romantic getaway or The Barn for rustic cabins and camping
Must-do activities : Hike the Abel Tasman Coastal Track (one of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks), search for wildlife on Tonga Island , and take a scenic boat trip around the golden beaches
Region : Canterbury
Located right on the shores of the South Island’s east coast, Kaikoura is a cool town that’s famous for its plethora of whales, dolphins, and sea lions. Between the misty sea, towering mountains, and ample wildlife colonies, you’re bound to have a good time in Kaikoura if you’re a nature lover.
Where to stay in Kaikoura : The Fairways for luxury accommodation with a hot tub or Manakau PurePods for a glass eco-cabin
Must-do activities : Take a whale watching tour, spot sea lions on the coast at Kaikoura Seal Colony , and eat crayfish from Nin’s Bin seafood stall
Nelson Lakes National Park
Regions : Tasman
Nelson Lakes National Park is made up of 16 picturesque lakes in the top center of New Zealand’s South Island. Despite being relatively unknown compared to other National Parks, Nelson Lakes has tons to offer. Some of the best things to do include hiking, boating, fishing, and mountain biking.
Where to stay in Nelson Lakes : Nelson Lakes Motels for large group cottages or Alpine Lodge for dorm rooms and apartments
Must-do activities : Visit the jetty at Lake Rotoiti , hike to Angelus Hut , or go skiing at Rainbow Ski Area
Hanmer Springs
Hanmer Springs in the Hurunui District is another great spot for a relaxing staycation. Known for its mineral-fed hot springs and surrounding mountains, it makes a good place to visit in both the summer and winter months.
Where to stay in Hanmer Springs : Amuri Estate Luxury Lodge for 5-star accommodation or 8 on Oregon for a boutique lodge
Must-do activities : Soak in the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa , walk up Conical Hill , and go jet boating down the Waiau River
Regions : Canterbury & West Coast
The Lewis Pass is the northernmost connecting road between Canterbury and the West Coast. You’ll find a few fun walks and things to do along your scenic drive.
Where to stay in Lewis Pass : Maruia Hot Springs for a rustic thermal springs resort or Lewis Pass Motels for clean and spacious rooms
Must-do activities : Hike to Lake Daniell , camp at Marble Hill , and take in the views at Lewis Pass Scenic Tarn
Region : West Coast
Making our way over to the West Coast of the South Island, Punakaiki is a little town with some really cool rock formations. It’s also the gateway to nearby Paparoa National Park, a coastal forest that is straight out of Jurassic Park.
Where to stay in Punakaiki : Punakaiki Beach Hostel for a cheap and cheerful option or Te Nikau Retreat for self-contained cottages
Must-do activities : Visit the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes , walk the Truman Track , and explore the depths of the Punakaiki Cavern
⇉ West Coast Road Trip Day 2: Buller Gorge & Punakaiki
For being such a small town, Hokitika sure packs a punch when it comes to things to do. With both epic scenery and cultural experiences, Hokitika is definitely one of the best places to visit on the South Island. There are also tons of short walks around the area to enjoy.
Where to stay in Hokitika : Hurunui Jacks for canopy glamping or Awatuna Sunset Lodge for a luxurious adults-only retreat
Must-do activities : Spot glow worms at the Glow Worm Dell , take a stroll above the treeline at West Coast Treetop Walk , walk the track around Hokitika Gorge , experience Maori culture by carving pounamu at Bonz’n’Stonz , and swim in Dorothy Falls and Lake Kaniere
⇉ West Coast Road Trip Day 3: Lake Kaniere & Hokitika
⇉ West Coast Road Trip Day 4: Treetop Walk & Hokitika Gorge
Franz Josef
Franz Josef, along with nearby Fox Glacier, are tourist and backpacking hubs on the West Coast. The main attraction is Franz Josef Glacier, a 12 km (7.5 mi) long glacier in Westland Tai Poutini National Park. The town also offers tons of adventure activities like skydiving, heli hiking, and bungee jumping.
Where to stay in Franz Josef : Rainforest Retreat for a sustainable and eco-friendly stay or Glow Worm Accommodation for a cosy room in the heart of town
Must-do activities : Hike (or heli hike!) to Franz Josef Glacier , do the Tatare Tunnels Walk through an abandoned mining tunnel, and soak in the Franz Josef Glacier Hot Pools
⇉ West Coast Road Trip Day 5: Tatare Tunnels & Franz Josef
Regions : West Coast & Otago
Haast Pass is a mountain pass between the West Coast of the South Island and Otago. It’s home to Mount Aspiring National Park, where you’ll find heaps of tall mountains, glaciers, river valleys, and alpine lakes.
Where to stay in Haast Pass : Wonderland Makarora Lodge for a cute A-frame cabin or Haast River Motels & Holiday Park for those in campervans
Must-do activities : Go chasing waterfalls ( Roaring Billy Falls , Thunder Creek Falls , and Fantail Falls ) and take a frigid dip in the Blue Pools
⇉ West Coast Road Trip Day 7: Haast Waterfalls & Blue Pools
Arthur’s Pass National Park
Regions : West Coast & Canterbury
Driving through Arthur’s Pass, the middle road connecting Canterbury and the West Coast, is one of the best things to do on a South Island road trip. The scenic drive includes many beautiful overlooks, hiking tracks, and natural wonders.
Where to stay in Arthur’s Pass : Wilderness Lodge Arthur’s Pass for great views or Mountain House YHA for affordable digs
Must-do activities : Stroll through Castle Hill (an area with massive boulders), do some spelunking at Cave Stream Scenic Reserve , and hike the Bealey Spur Track
⇉ 15 Unreal Things to Do in Arthur’s Pass, New Zealand
Christchurch
Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island and a major transport hub to connect to other cities. If you’re flying in to the South Island, this is most likely where you’ll begin your journey.
The city itself has experienced a ton of growth after the tragic 2011 earthquakes and is now a super-cool destination with lots of great restaurants and bars. Also known as the garden city, Christchurch is one of the best places to visit on the South Island if you’re into the outdoors.
Where to stay in Christchurch : The George for luxury overlooking Hagley Park, Orari for a centrally-located bed and breakfast, or The Tack Rooms for stylish yet understated rooms
Must-do activities : Stroll through Hagley Park and the Christchurch Botanic Gardens , go op shopping at Paper Bag Princess , and take a picture with the Bridge of Remembrance
Best places to eat & drink: Amazonita , Barefoot Eatery , C1 Espresso , gin gin , Miro , Mr. Brightside Rooftop Bar , and any stalls at Riverside Market
⇉ 18 Free (& Cheap) Things to Do in Christchurch
Located on the Banks Peninsula, Akaroa is a former French settlement with tons of culture and wildlife viewing opportunities. This quaint seaside town is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway from Christchurch.
Where to stay in Akaroa : SiloStay to experience a unique converted grain silo or Okains Bay campground for self-contained campervans
Must-do activities : Eat authentic French food at Ma Maison , hang out with the farm animals at Shamarra Alpacas , and take in views of the bay at Akaroa Lookout point
Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo is a small town surrounded by unreal natural beauty. You’ll find a large, blue lake, tons of rolling hills, fields of flowers, and golden plains. The night sky is so clear that the entire town is considered an International Dark Sky Reserve !
Stargazing, cycling, and hiking are just a few of the activities that you can enjoy in Tekapo.
Where to stay in Tekapo : Galaxy Boutique Hotel Lake Tekapo for lake view suites or Peppers Bluewater Resort for secluded apartments
Must-do activities : Hike up to the Mount John Observatory , take pictures with fields of lupins , check out Church of the Good Shepherd , go stargazing and soak in the hot tubs at Tekapo Springs
⇉ Tekapo Travel Guide: 14 Can’t-Miss Things To Do Around Lake Tekapo
Lake Pukaki
Just a half hour’s drive southwest from Tekapo, you’ll find an even more stunning lake (can you believe it?). Lake Pukaki is a crystal clear, powder blue glacial lake that often provides a mirrored reflection of the Southern Alps. Take a dip in the frigid water to perk yourself up, especially if you’re road tripping from Christchurch to Queenstown !
Where to stay in Pukaki : Lakestone Lodge for unparalleled food and views of the lake or The Pines for amazing freedom camping
Must-do activities : Cycle a part of the Alps2Ocean trail , walk the Pukaki Kettle Hole track , and eat some fresh sashimi at Mt Cook Alpine Salmon
Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
Surrounded in all directions by the Southern Alps, Aoraki / Mt Cook National Park is also home to New Zealand’s tallest mountain of the same name. The highest peak stands at a staggering 3,724 m (12,218 ft) tall! The spectacular views make this one of my personal favorite places to visit in all of New Zealand.
Where to stay in Aoraki/Mt Cook : The Hermitage Hotel , an iconic hotel within the park
Must-do activities : Take a scenic flight or go hiking on one of the many trails. My favorites include Mueller Hut , Hooker Valley Track, Red Tarns , and Tasman Glacier !
⇉ The Ultimate Guide to Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park
Twizel is hands-down one of the nicest holiday home towns in New Zealand. Sitting smack dab in the middle of four lakes (Lake Ruataniwha, Lake Ohau, Lake Benmore, and Lake Pukaki), it’s a great place for boating, swimming, fishing, and more.
Where to stay in Twizel : High Country Cabin for a chic, cozy vibe, SkyScape for amazing night sky views, or Highlands farmstay for a rural hut with friendly farm animals
Must-do activities : Go salmon fishing along the canals , spend the day on a boat at Lake Ruataniwha , hike the Greta Track
⇉ Welcome to Twizel: New Zealand’s Hidden Gem
Omarama is a tiny town at the intersection between the Lindis Pass and southern Canterbury. With unreal and easily accessible landscapes, hot tubs, and a few quality cafes, Omarama makes a great place to stop off on a longer road trip.
Where to stay in Omarama : Ahuriri Motels for clean and comfy rooms or BigSky Bed and Breakfast for heartfelt hospitality
Must-do activities : Walk among the otherworldly Clay Cliffs , take a soak at the Omarama Hot Tubs , and fuel up with snacks from Pink Glider Cafe
Region : Otago
With beautiful lake views, snow-capped mountains, and a bevy of fantastic restaurants, Wanaka is a must-see spot on New Zealand’s South Island. Hiking, mountain biking, and river floating are some popular activities.
I personally like Wanaka a bit more than Queenstown and I definitely think that it deserves a day or two on any South Island itinerary!
Where to stay in Wanaka : Cross Hill Domes for luxury glamping or Wanaka Bakpaka Hostel for affordable rooms on the water
Must-do activities : Hike Roy’s Peak (especially cool at sunrise or sunset), have some fun at Puzzling World , climb a via ferrata behind a waterfall with Wildwire Wanaka
Best places to eat & drink : Scroggin , Francesca’s Italian Kitchen , Kai Whakapai , and Burrito Craft
When you think of Cromwell, you should think of two things: fruit and wine. This little Central Otago town has the perfect climate for both, making it the perfect spot for winos and foodies alike. Additionally, you can cycle down one of the many nearby trails or relax by the Clutha River.
Where to stay in Cromwell : Vines on Bannockburn for a boutique getaway or River Rock Estate for relaxation and hot pools
Must-do activities : Take a selfie with the Big Fruit , walk through the Heritage Precinct , and drink some wine at Wooing Tree Vineyard
Arrowtown is a historic Gold Rush site just outside of Queenstown. Although small, the charming town makes for a good half- or full-day trip if you want to step back in time. Try your luck panning for gold — you never know, you might strike it rich!
Where to stay in Arrowtown : The Arrow Hotel for luxurious apartments or The New Orleans Hotel for a historic building on the river
Must-do activities : Experience the history of gold panning at the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement , go swimming at Lake Hayes , and peruse the boutiques on Buckingham Street
If you had to choose just one place to visit on the South Island, Queenstown should be the place.
With tons of adventure activities, proximity to amazing natural wonders, an innovative restaurant scene, and a big backpacking community, Queenstown has something for everyone. It makes the perfect spot to base yourself while taking day trips nearby, as well!
Where to stay in Queenstown : Kamana Lakehouse for an architecturally stunning locale (with outdoor bathtub!) or Novotel Queenstown Lakeside for a contemporary hotel on the shores of Lake Wakatipu
Must-do activities : Take the gondola up the Tiki Trail , go jet boating down the Shotover River, hike to Bob’s Cove , and paragliding from Coronet Peak
Best places to eat & drink : Fergburger , Atlas Beer Cafe , Rata , and Nest
Just 45 minutes down the road from Queenstown, Glenorchy and its surrounds are straight out of a fairytale. This remote and peaceful town has lots to offer in terms of outdoor activities and Lord of the Rings filming locations. Hiking and cycling are musts — if you’re super adventurous, the famous Routeburn Track starts nearby!
Where to stay in Glenorchy : Ecoscapes for a cool glass-walled cabin or Camp Glenorchy Eco Retreat for a sustainable getaway in town
Must-do activities : Drive the Road to Paradise , walk the Lake Sylvan Track , stroll around the Glenorchy Lagoon Walkway , and check out the red shed at the Glenorchy Wharf
⇉ 12 Awesome Things to Do in Glenorchy & Paradise
Although kind of in the middle of nowhere, the town of St Bathans is worth a visit a detour if you’re driving from Queenstown to Dunedin. The main (and really, only) attraction is the loop track around Blue Lake, a man-made lake from when the town was a booming Gold Rush site. The white-washed cliffs and sandy shores make St Bathans look more like somewhere out of the Mediterranean than a town in Central Otago.
Where to stay in St Bathans : The Vulcan Hotel , a historic (and supposedly haunted) building
Must-do activities : Walk the track around the Blue Lake
The town of Oamaru is at once quaint and unbelievably eccentric. With Victorian England-style streets and an indescribable fascination with steampunk, Oamaru is an interesting place to visit for a day or two. Make sure to go down to the coast for some epic views.
Where to stay in Oamaru : Pen-y-bryn Lodge for charming period-style rooms and free breakfast or The Old Confectionery , a remodeled candy factory
Must-do activities : Tour the Steampunk HQ building, look out for penguins at the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony , and take a beach walk alongside the Moeraki Boulders (make sure to go at low tide)
⇉ 16 Quirky & Fun Things to Do in Oamaru, New Zealand’s Victorian City
Dunedin is a bustling university town with tons of cultural and historical sites. Boasting a strong Scottish heritage and plenty of marine life on its beaches, Dunedin is one of the best spots for a coastal getaway on the South Island.
Where to stay in Dunedin : The Stables Dunedin for historical boutique studios or The Hydro Esplanade Apartments for beach-front accommodation
Must-do activities : Wander through Larnach Castle , walk down to the ocean at Tunnel Beach , stand on Baldwin Street (the “steepest street in the world”), and jump over sand dunes at Sand Fly Bay
⇉ Dunedin Travel Guide: The Best Things to Eat, See, and Do
The Catlins
Regions : Otago & Southland
The Catlins is an area on the southeastern coast of the South Island from Balclutha to Invercargill. Despite having some of the best views and things to do, the whole area remains criminally underrated.
There are tons of opportunities to see wildlife, take short walks through the forest, and breathe in the ocean breeze. The Catlins are one of the best places to visit on the South Island if you love nature!
Where to stay in The Catlins : Seascape Kaka Point for a cozy seaside motel or Curio Bay Salthouse Motel and Apartment for self-catering suites
Must-do activities : Walk the trail to Nugget Point Lighthouse , search for sea lions at Curio Bay , and see the southernmost point of the South island at Slope Point
⇉ Catlins Road Trip Itinerary: 4 Days in New Zealand’s Most Underrated Region
Region : Southland
Te Anau is the gateway to Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound , and Fiordland National Park. It makes a great base to start adventuring the nearby region. It also has enough to do to keep you busy for a few days. Te Anau is especially wonderful if you’re big on hiking!
Where to stay in Te Anau : Fiordland Lodge Te Anau for lakeside luxury or Radfords on the Lake for plush rooms with a view
Must-do activities : Check out the Te Anau Glow Worm Caves , hike the Kepler Track , and drive the scenic road to Milford Sound
⇉ 16 Exciting Things to Do in Te Anau, New Zealand
Milford Sound
Milford Sound’s stunning landscapes make it one of the absolute best places to visit on the South Island. It’s a bucket list destination that every visitor to New Zealand should check out at least once.
The best way to see Milford Sound is by boat, so make sure to book a scenic cruise around the fjords if you’re keen on visiting.
Where to stay in Milford Sound : Milford Sound Lodge to be right near the action
Must-do activities : Take a scenic cruise around Milford Sound
⇉ 14 Best Things to Do in Milford Sound: First Timer’s Guide
Stewart Island is a remote and unspoiled area about 30 km (18.6 mi) south of the South Island. Known for its birdlife and pristine walking tracks, Stewart Island is a gem. It also makes a great addition to any South Island itinerary, especially one that’s off the beaten path.
Where to stay on Stewart Island : Stewart Island Backpackers for affordable rooms or Kaka Retreat for lush surroundings amongst native bush
Must-do activities : Take a guided walk around Ulva Island , watch for kiwis , and walk the Rakiura Track
South Island New Zealand travel tips
Getting to the south island.
If you’re coming from abroad, you’ll most likely fly into Christchurch International Airport (CHC). From elsewhere in New Zealand, you could also fly into Dunedin (DUD) and Queenstown (ZQN).
If you’re coming by ferry from the North Island, you’ll arrive in Picton. The ferry operates several times a day between Picton and Wellington. Tickets cost around $60 per person one way (more if you’re bringing a car or a bike).
How to get around the South Island
The absolute best way to travel the South Island is by campervan. Public transportation is unreliable and guided tours can be incredibly expensive. Self-driving allows you to see what you want, when you want. It also ends up saving money, especially if your campervan is self-contained!
⇉ Everything You Need to Know About New Zealand Freedom Camping
Best time to visit the South Island
The South Island can make a great destination throughout the year. Summer is the most popular choice because the weather is the best, but hotels and activities can be more expensive. Traveling the South Island during winter is also a great option if you’re planning on participating in winter sports. Keep in mind that it’s much colder than the North Island, though!
New Zealand is an expensive place to visit, and the South Island in particular is no exception. Prices for accommodation, food, and transportation can set you back big time. Here are a few money-saving tips for traveling the South Island!
⇉ How to Travel New Zealand on a Budget (21 Money-Saving Tips)
Accommodation : While not as flash, hostels are much cheaper than hotels or Airbnbs. You can usually find private rooms in a hostel for less than a room at a mid-range hotel.
Food : Cooking your own food will definitely save you a ton of money. If you do eat out, try to stick to brunch or lunch because you’re more likely to get a deal.
Activities : Many of the most popular activities on the South Island are actually free! Hiking, cycling, and swimming are all free of charge and are definitely things you should add to your list.
Transportation : Try to fuel up before heading to smaller or more remote towns. Fuel prices are often much more expensive in more touristy spots as well!
New Zealand travel essentials
- Tripod : To get great pictures when traveling solo
- Bug spray : Because sand flies are no joke!
- New Zealand guide book
- Portable charger : To stay connected
- Portable espresso maker : Works with Nespresso pods and is great for camping
- Polarized sunglasses
South Island New Zealand FAQ
Should i visit the north island or the south island.
The two islands are very different in terms of scenery and general vibe.
The North Island is more culturally and linguistically diverse than the South Island. Maori culture is more prevalent as well. You’ll find amazing beaches, warmer weather, and lots of geothermal activity.
The South Island is renowned for being the more naturally beautiful of the two. You get super diverse landscapes that range from snowy mountains to lush forests and craggy ocean cliffs. There is so much to see and do so you’ll never get bored.
Overall, I’d recommend visiting the South Island if you had to pick between the two.
What are the best places to visit on the South Island?
In my opinion, the absolute best places to visit on the South Island include Queenstown, Milford Sound, and Mount Cook. Depending on what kind of trip you enjoy, your top places could be different!
Other best places to visit for the:
- Nature lover : Aoraki/Mt Cook National Park, Milford Sound, Punakaiki
- Wine lover : Blenheim, Picton, Wanaka
- Foodie : Christchurch, Kaikoura, Queenstown
- Off-the-beaten-path explorer : The Catlins, St Bathans, Oamaru
Should I rent a car or a campervan?
This comes down to personal preference as well.
Do you want to stay in hotels, Airbnbs, or unique glamping spots? Is your budget a little bit higher? Then renting a car could be a good option.
If you’re on a budget and are okay with staying at campsites, then a campervan is the way to go. There are so many beautiful (and often completely free!) spots you can park up. Renting a campervan is the move if you want to be more in touch with nature during your visit.
You’ll also love:
- Best Waterfalls in the Catlins: A Full Guide to 8 New Zealand Hidden Gems
- Queenstown Luxury Spa Getaway: Onsen Hot Pools & Kamana Lakehouse
- Hiking the Red Tarns Track: Steep Stairs & A Glacial Lake
Thanks for reading this list of best places to visit on New Zealand’s South Island! Do you have a favorite spot that I’ve missed? Leave it in the comments below!
Related posts
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The Top 15 Things to Do on New Zealand's South Island
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If you're looking for natural sights and experiences in New Zealand, you'll find them in abundance in the South Island, the largest of New Zealand's main islands. Officially known as Te Waipounamu (which translates to "water of greenstone"), the South Island is home to barely more than one million of the country's five million inhabitants, who are mostly settled in and around the cities of Christchurch and Dunedin and a handful of smaller towns.
The Southern Alps form the backbone of the South Island, starting just south of Nelson and continuing down to Fiordland. While it's easy enough to get between the towns and cities in the north and east of the South Island, the mountains create a natural barrier to the west, with just a handful of mountain passes connecting the west and the east. Although distances between points of interest may not look that big on the map, you need to factor in the time it takes to cross mountain roads.
Here are some of the best things to see and do in the great South Island.
Hike, Bike, or Kayak in the Marlborough Sounds
Dmitry Naumov / Getty Images
Many travelers entering the South Island come by way of ferry, crossing the Cook Strait from Wellington and into the jagged Marlborough Sounds . The drowned river valleys of Queen Charlotte, Pelorus, Kenepuru, and Mahau Sounds are a watery paradise of calm seas and forested mountains rising out of the water. While a highway connects Picton, the largest town in the sounds, with other parts of the South Island, most of the sounds aren't accessible by road. Hiking, biking, and kayaking are the best ways to explore the area. The multi-day Queen Charlotte hiking and biking track is especially popular, but there are many other shorter options.
Taste Wine in New Zealand's Largest Winemaking Region
Mike Mackinven / Getty Images
If you pick up a bottle of New Zealand wine anywhere in the world, there's a high chance it will be from Marlborough. The greater Marlborough region (not including the sounds) is the largest producer of wines in New Zealand , with more than 150 wineries exporting about 80 percent of the country's fermented grapes. The crisp, white Sauvignon Blanc is the most highly regarded. The flat, fertile area around the town of Blenheim is covered with rows upon rows of grape vines, which can be toured.
Find the Clearest Water in the World in Nelson Lakes National Park
Gary Webber / Getty Images
The alpine Nelson Lakes National Park marks the start of the Southern Alps mountain range and, as the name suggests, contains several lakes—16, in fact. Attractive Lakes Rotoiti and Rotoroa are the most easily accessible, but keen hikers shouldn't miss Rotomairewhenua (Blue Lake), deep in the park and about a two days' walk from the trailhead. The waters here are classified as the clearest in the world.
Be Blown Away at Wharariki Beach
Nazar Abbas Photography / Getty Images
In the western corner of the upper South Island, Golden Bay is a remote area of native forest and stunning beaches. Hikers and sun-seekers shouldn't miss the Abel Tasman National Park , in Golden Bay's east, but Wharariki Beach will blow you away. Literally. This windy expanse of sand sits right on the edge of the South Island, and has impressive rock formations, sand dunes, and seals that play in the rock pools at low tide. Horse treks along the beach can also be arranged.
Heli-Raft on the South Island's Remote Rivers
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Whitewater rafting in general is excellent in New Zealand, but experienced rafters and paddlers seeking a greater thrill can heli-raft on one of the South Island's more remote rivers. As the name suggests, the entry point is reached by helicopter. Such expeditions can be arranged around Murchison, the West Coast, and Queenstown.
Soak in the Natural Hot Springs at Hanmer Springs
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The South Island's answer to the North Island's more famous Rotorua, Hanmer Springs is a spa town in the mountains of Canterbury, where you can bathe in naturally heated geothermal waters year-round. The warm waters are especially comforting in the cold winter, but kids will enjoy the slides and rides at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools & Spa in the warmer months.
Check Out the Sea-Level Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers
TripSavvy / Angelina Pilarinos
At the southern end of the South Island's remote West Coast are the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers. They're unusual for being dynamic glaciers in a temperate climate not far above sea level. Visitors can get close to the glaciers by themselves, but you can see and learn a lot more on a guided hiking tour of either one, or by taking a heli-tour.
Get Wet in Fiordland
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Fiordland is one of the main reasons why many travelers visit the South Island, and iconic Mitre Peak, rising from Milford Sound, is one of New Zealand's most famous picture-postcard images. A near-wilderness of fjords, lakes, mountains, and forest, the Fiordland National Park is the largest in New Zealand. It also has some of the highest rainfall in the country, with 23 feet falling on 200 rain days per year, on average! So, whatever you choose to do in Fiordland, there's a high chance you'll get wet. Many travelers enjoy Fiordland's long-distance hikes , but gentler boat trips on Milford and Doubtful Sounds, as well as Lake Manapouri and Lake Te Anau, also offer great views.
Brave the Haast Pass and Mountain Roads
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Travelers needing to drive (or take a bus) between Queenstown/Wanaka and the West Coast will need to brave the Haast Pass, as it's the only way to get to the other side of the mountains. The twisting mountain roads are certainly a challenge, but the road journey is one of New Zealand's best. Along the way, the dazzling Blue Pools, Haast Pass Overlook, Fantail Falls, Thunder Creek Falls , and Roaring Billy Falls are all ideal places to break the journey.
Admire the Earthquake Memorial in Christchurch
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The South Island's biggest city, Christchurch, was rocked by two large earthquakes in 2010 and 2011. The 7.1-scale earthquake in September 2010 weakened many buildings, but it was the 6.3-scale quake in February 2011 that killed 185 people and caused the spire of the city's famous ChristChurch Cathedral to topple. Now, the Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial on the banks of the Avon River, which runs through the central city, is a poignant and beautiful place to walk and soak in Christchurch's atmosphere.
Kayak with Dolphins at the Banks Peninsula
The volcanic Banks Peninsula that juts out into the Pacific Ocean east of Christchurch contains two large harbors and many smaller coves around its jagged coastline. The conditions are ideal for kayaking, and paddlers will often be lucky enough to share the water with dolphins. The Banks Peninsula is one of the few places where Hector's dolphins, the world's smallest and rarest dolphin species, can be seen. Kayaking is an especially good way to see them because it is less intrusive than sightseeing tours on larger boats.
Pose with the Boulders at Moeraki
Libin George / Getty Images
The small town of Moeraki, between Dunedin and Timaru on the southeast coast of the South Island, would just be another place to drive through if it weren't for its unusual boulders on Koekohe Beach. Around 50 huge spherical boulders, the result of millions of years of erosion. sit on the beach. (The largest is 23 feet in diameter!) This is a must-stop when traveling between Dunedin and Christchurch as Moeraki is just off State Highway 1.
Have a Drink at a Student Bar in Dunedin
Yusuke Sugiyama / EyeEm / Getty Images
The second-biggest city in the South Island, Dunedin has a distinctly Scottish architectural and cultural heritage, as it was settled by Scottish colonizers and modeled on Edinburgh. It is also home to the oldest university in New Zealand, the University of Otago, and sees around 20,000 students at any one time. The student party scene here is famous (some would say notorious), so if you're in town during semester-time, why not join the students for a drink? The student pubs in North Dunedin aren't the "classiest," but central Dunedin, particularly the Octagon, has many more upmarket joints.
Spot Penguins in the Catlins
Mara Brandl / Getty Images
The rugged mountains and coast of the Catlins, which span the Otago-Southland border, are often overlooked by international and domestic travelers. But if you're into birds, you won't want to miss it. Yellow-eyed penguins breed and nest in shrubs along the shore, and are best seen at Curio Bay and the Nugget Point Totara Scenic Reserve (especially Roaring Bay beach). Stay off the beaches when they are around and watch them from the specially made hideouts. Dawn and dusk are the best times.
Ride the Ferry Down to Stewart Island
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Down below the South Island is New Zealand's third "main" island, Stewart Island/Rakiura . The majority of the island is part of the Rakiura National Park, and is a good place for camping, bird watching, and hiking. Although not technically the South Island, Stewart Island can only be reached by passenger ferry from Bluff, the southern-most point of the South Island, or by flying from Invercargill.
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25 BEST things to do in South Island (New Zealand)
Last updated on October 12, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )
Wondering what to add to your itinerary in NZ? Below is my selection of the 25 best things to do in New Zealand South island: best attractions, best views, best wildlife experiences, best drives… All the must-see (in my opinion) with pictures to help you decide if you want to add them to your itinerary .
10 best things to do in New Zealand South Island
Let’s start with my absolute top 10 favorites
1. Drive Arthur’s Pass – best road in NZ south island
- Why visit – Arthur’s pass is definitively my favorite road in New Zealand. It has it all: mountains, lakes, rock formations, waterfalls… At each turn you discover a new magnificent scenery where the mountains seem to have been painted by mother Nature.
- Location – South Island Northern half, between Christchurch and Greymouth Christchurch to Arthur’s pass village = 2h drive
- Access / Cost / Time – The road is sinuous with a few steep sections but not difficult overall. Free access to the road and to the attractions Plan a full day to explore the area
- Tips – I recommend spending the night in Arthur’s pass. This way you have 2 opportunities to see the road under a correct weather. The afternoon before and the next morning. You increase your chances of seeing it in its full glory.
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the accommodations in Arthur’s pass
2. Play with the Moeraki Boulders
- Why visit – The Moeraki boulders are one of the most fascinating geological wonders in New Zealand South island. Most of those giant round rocks are 1 to 2m in diameter and can be up to 3m (weighing several tonnes). They formed 65 to 13million years ago. Erosion is revealing them on the beach. See more photos on my article about them.
- Location – East Coast, Southern half North of Dunedin Dunedin to Moeraki Boulders = 1h drive
- Access / Cost / Time – Easy access just off Road 1 Free access from the beach public carpark – or 2NZD donation box from the café Plan 30min to a couple of hours depending on your love fro geology.
- Tips – The best time is at Mid to low tide and at sunrise. This way you have access to all of them and get reflections on the wet sand. The light in the morning is perfect.
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the accommodations in Hampden / Moeraki
3. Be an astronomer at Tekapo – best view in South Island New Zealand?
- Why visit – Lake Tekapo is one of the beautiful glacial lakes in South island. It is surrounded by mountains. Located in the Dark sky reserve, it is home to the Mt John Observatory. Even if you are not here to visit during the night, go up there during the day to admire the lake from above. The colors are fascinating!
- Location – Center of NZ South island Christchurch to Tekapo = 3h drive Queenstown to Tekapo = 3h drive
- Access / Cost / Time – On Road 8 – Easy drive (but mountainous) Free access to Lake 8NZD access to Observatory by car during the day (or you can hike up there for free). 1h at the observatory to take in the view
- Tips – Walk by the water to admire its color. Don’t miss the most famous church in New Zealand: the church of the Good Shepherd. You can also book nighttime tours to the observatory – Check out program and book
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Tekapo
4. Marvel at the vertical walls of Milford Sound
- Why visit – Milford Sound is the most famous of all the fjords in NZ. It is included in all the lists of best things to do in New Zealand. And for good reasons: accessible by car, it has some of the most vertical cliffs and many beautiful waterfalls. Whatever the weather, the cruise will allow you to marvel at this magnificent work of Nature.
- Location – West Coast, West of Te Anau Te Anau to Milford Sound = 2h Queenstown to Milford Sound = 4h drive
- Access / Cost / Time – Free access to the road until the carparks. Pay for one of the cruises. Plan at least a full day (Staying before and after in Te Anau, will reduce your driving time)
- Tips – I recommend planning a good amount of time to also appreciate the road to Milford Sound. There are many sights and attractions to see along the way. But complete them on the way back so you don’t have to rush to be on time for your cruise. There are also day trips from the main surrounding lakes if you want to just seat back and relax and con’t worry about parking at the end. See all the options on Getyourguide
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Te Anau
5. Enter a fantasy world at the Omarama Clay Cliffs
- Why visit – The shapes and colors of those clay cliffs are fascinating. If you are like me and love rock formations, you cannot miss it. It is not very well known, but it was to my opinion one of the best places in the South island of New Zealand. See many more photos on my article
- Location – Center of the island Near Omarama, South of Lake Pukaki Queenstown to clay cliffs = 2h50 drive Pukaki to clay cliffs = 40min drive
- Access / Cost / Time – Off Road 8 – 7km on gravel road + 10min walk slightly uphill Pay 5NZD at the white box at the entrance Plan 2h for drive + walk + enjoying the scenery
- Tips – Prefer the morning for better light.
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Omarama
6. Enter the darkness at Cathedral Caves – best thing to do in lower South Island
- Why visit – The Cathedral caves are only accessible around low tide. The giant 30m high caves are quite impressive. You can even walk rom one to the other since they connect at the back. Plus to walk from the carpark through forest to the beach is stunning. Not to be mixed up with Cathedral cove in North island. See more photos
- Location – South East coast, in the Catlins South of Dunedin Dunedin to Cathedral caves = 2h drive
- Access / Cost / Time – Last 2km are unpaved and quite bumpy 20min walk down hill + 10walk on beach (and walk back up at the end) Plan 1h30 to 2h 5NZD to pay to carpark attendants
- Tips – Start your visit before low tide so you don’t have to rush as the tide is closing the caves. Plus you will get fantastic reflections.
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the accommodations in Curio bay and the Catlins (further South with beach, dolphins and penguins)
7. Chase the reflections at Wharariki beach
- Why visit – One of the most beautiful beaches in New Zealand is Wharariki and one of my best memories from NZ South island. The giant seastacks stand tall above the large flat sand area. Plus you can see seal pups playing is natural pools (check #11 further in the article) More photos here
- Location – North West tip of South island, close to the Spit Nelson to Wharariki beach = 2h40 drive
- Access / Cost / Time – Last 6km are unsealed + 20min walk to the beach + 10min walk through the sand dunes Free access Plan half a day
- Tips – Go at least 1h before low tide so you have plenty of time to check out both the reflections of the stacks and the seal pups
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the accommodations in Collingwood
Need to rent a car in New Zealand ?
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Prefer a car with enough power for the mountain areas
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
See all my tips
8. Feel small between the Castle Hill Rocks (Kura Tawhiti)
- Why visit – I love rock formations so much that I have selected others within my top 10 of the best things to do in New Zealand South Island… Kura Tawhiti are not round boulders. But they are massive, up to 30m high (98ft) and surrounded by magnificent mountains. It is really fun to get lost in the Labyrinth they create. See more photos
- Location – Along Arthur’s pass drive, between Christchurch and Greymouth Christchurch to Castle Hill Rocks = 1h15 drive
- Access / Cost / Time – Along Road 73 – 5min walk from carpark Free access Plan 2h to explore
- Tips – Have fun looking at the shapes and imagine animals and mystical creatures.
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Christchurch
9. Visit a young cave at Te Anau
- Why visit – It is 3 in 1 experience! One of the best attractions in New Zealand South island. First you enjoy a beautiful cruise on Lake Te Anau with its islands, and arms. Then you get to visit a young cave will in “rapid” transformation with its waterfall. Most caves you can visit around the world are old with impressive stalagmites and stalactites. This one is a lot younger without those formations but being cut and transformed by water at a higher speed. Plus you enjoy a short boat ride in the dark to see a sky of glowworms!
- Location – Departure fro the center of Te Anau Queenstown to Te Anau = 2h drive
- Access / Cost / Time – Price of the tour Not difficult to walk inside the cave 2h30
- Tips – If you are afraid of the dark or claustrophobic, DO NOT go. Not photos allowed inside the cave Afternoon tours get full quickly – book early
10. Relax or get an adrenaline rush at Lake Wakatipu (Queenstown)
- Why visit – Queenstown is the most famous town in South island. It is the Adrenaline capital of the world. But even if you are not into skydiving, canyoning or bungy jumping there is so much to do. Starting by simply enjoying Lake Wakatipu, one of the most beautiful lakes in New Zealand…
- Location – Queenstown is the main town in the South East part of South island Christchurch to Queenstown = 6h drive Dunedin to Queenstown = 3h30 drive
- Access / Cost / Time – Free to drive around the lake All level of prices for activities from renting a Kayak to an helicopter tour with glacier landing to private wine tour…
- Tips – Plan at least 2 days on your road trip Queenstown is also a great place as a base for a 1 week holiday Check out the many activities in Queenstown
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Queenstown
Attractions in South Island New Zealand – Tourism Map
Want a general idea of where those top 10 attractions are located? Below is my NZ tourism maps with those 10 to help you plan your road trip around New Zealand .
Want more? The complete maps with my selection of the most amazing attractions in New Zealand South island are available in my eBooks:
Plan your dream trip to New Zealand with my guides!
- 12 easy-to-plan maps
- 200+ pre-selected locations
- GPS coordinates
- Useful planning tips
- 285+ large photos
- 6 easy-to-plan maps
- 110+ pre-selected locations
- 190+ large photos
Wildlife highlights – 3 Tourists attractions in South Island
11. seal pups at wharariki beach.
- Why visit – OMG. I was not expecting that. I had heard about the seal pups of Wharariki beach but it was so much more than I imagine. At low tide , pools remain on the beach and wild seal pups play freely in the water. They are so happy to be swimming around. You can stand and watch quietly. The adults are used to having humans around and remain calm. But be warned, that you might not realise how long you have been staring at them! More Photos and a video here
- Location – North West tip of South island, close to the Spit Nelson to Wharariki beach = 2h40 drive
- Access / Cost / Time – Last 6km are unsealed + 20min walk to the beach + 10 walk through the sand dunes Free access Plan half a day
- Tips – Go at least 1h before low tide so you have plenty of time to check out both the reflections of the stacks (#7) and the seal pups
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Collingwood
12. Swimming with wild dolphins in Kaikoura
- Why visit – Kaikoura has a special geography with mountains and underwater canyon, attracting many large ocean mammals. It is famous for its whale watching but my favorite activity is swimming with wild dolphins. You are right in the middle of the ocean and as soon as you find a pod of wild dolphins you jump in the water and they swim around you out of curiosity More photos on my article
- Location – Kaikoura, North East coast
- Access / Cost / Time – 1 or 2 days to stop in Kaikoura on your road trip Christchurch to Kaikoura = 2h30 drive Picton (ferry) to Kaikoura = 2h drive
- Tips – Make sure you don’t eat too much before (as boat and water move a lot) but eat a little to have enough strength
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Kaikoura
13. Penguins on the South East Coast
- Why visit – The South East coast of South island is home to several penguin colonies including little blue penguins and the rare yellow-eyed penguins. Oamaru is ‘penguintown’ with a complete set up with benches and commentary. But there are also many wild areas where you can seat in the distance and hope to spot penguins such as Curio bay or Katiki point lighthouse (with no guarantee of course)
- Location – The South East Coast from Dunedin down to the Catlins and to Stewart island
- Access / Cost / Time – Free access in wild area – Oamaru is a guided tour You will be more likely to spot them at dusk Be patient
- Tips – Bring layers of clothes to protect yourself from the wind and the cold (gloves, hat…). And bring binoculars to see them better ( check out my comparison guide to choose your binoculars )
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Oamaru
Where to stay in New Zealand ?
My favorites on North Iceland:
- In Auckland, to explore the vibrant city – see best rated accommodations
- In Rotorua, to visit the geothermal parks – see best rated accommodations
- In Wellington, to feel the vibe of the capital city – see best rated accommodations
- In New Plymouth, to admire Mount Taranaki – see best rated accommodations
My favorites on South Island:
- In Kaikoura, for dolphins and whales – see best rated accommodations
- In Queenstown, for the mountains – see best rated accommodations
- In Dunedin, to explore the Catlins – see best rated accommodations
- In Lake Tekapo, to admire Lake Pukaki, Mount cook and the Dark Sky – see accommodations
7 Best places to visit in the New Zealand South Island mountains
14. head to paradise via glenorchy.
- Why visit – Don’t stop in Queenstown. Continue driving along the lake towards Glenorchy… the scenery is stunning! with mountains and glacier. You can even keep driving past Glenorchy on a gravel road to the tiny village of Paradise 🙂
- Location – Glenorchy is along Lake Wakatipu, north of Queenstown Queenstown to Glenorchy = 45min
- Access / Cost / Time – Plan at least 3hours to stop along the drive, walk in Glenorchy and if you can take the gravel road to Paradise
- Tips – My favorite stop is at the Bennets Bluff lookout
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the accommodations in Glenorchy (for those looking for something quieter than Queenstown)
15. Drive the Lindis Pass
- Why visit – The Lindis pass is another of my favorite drives in New Zealand. But quite different from Arthur’s pass (#1). The shapes of the bare mountains are so beautiful that it can get dangerous by the driver as he/she gets distracted…
- Location – On road 8 between Omarama and Wanaka Wanaka to Lindis pass viewpoint = 1h drive Pukaki to Lindis pass viewpoint = 45min
- Access / Cost / Time – Easy drive (sinuous but not technically difficult)
- Tips – If you can drive a little in both directions around the viewpoint (there are stopping area where you can turn around). Because the views are different and interesting in both directions.
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Wanaka
16. Watch glacial valleys around Lake Pukaki
- Why visit – At the North end of Lake Pukaki you can find several walks to glaciers and their lakes. I recommend the walk up the staircase to the Tasman glacier: not so much for the glacier itself, but for the view of the valley in the other direction!
- Location – Mount Cook village at the end of Road 80 Pukaki (south of the lake) to Mount Cook = 40min drive Queenstown to Pukaki = 2h30
- Access / Cost / Time – Free access to all the hikes Plan 45min for the Tasman Glacier walk, longer for the others
- Tips – Even if you can’t walk much, drive all the way to Mount Cook and turn to the carpark of the Tasman glacier walk. The drive is through the valley and quite impressive. Read my article
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the accommodations in Mount Cook village
17. Listen to the silence at Doubtful Sound
- Why visit – The Fjord of Doubtful Sound is a lot less crowded than Milford Sound. This tour combines a cruise on Lake Manapouri a bus transfer on the pass and the cruise in Doubtful sound. Thanks to the isolation, the boat can stop and you can listen to complete silence.
- Location – Departure of the boat from Manapouri
- Access / Cost / Time – The tour is a fair bit of money but includes a lot of scenery! It takes 2/3 of your day
- Tips – Sometimes you can get inside the pilot’s area. Don’t hesitate to go and ask questions!
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Manapouri
18. Photograph the famous Tree Wanaka
- Why visit – Probably the most famous tree in New Zealand (even more than the giant Kauri tree in North island). It is probably due to its isolation in the water and the surrounding mountains.
- Location – Along the shore of Lake Wanaka. From the town center, when facing the lake, head left. Queenstown to Wanaka = 1h drive
- Access / Cost / Time – Free access on the lake shore 10min to 1h depending on your photography obsession
- Tips – Best at sunrise to get the light on the tree and on the mountains behind
19. Admire reflections at Lake Matheson
- Why visit – This is a classic in NZ. A favorite spot for photographers. Sadly the weather was really bad when I visited and I did not capture anything interesting. But the even if the mountains are in the clouds, the walk around the lake with the forest and the moss is worth the time.
- Location – West of Fox Glacier town = 5min drive Queenstown to Fox Glacier = 4h30
- Access / Cost / Time – Easy and Free access Plan 1h30 to complete the loop
- Tips – Best at sunset (West coast)
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Fox Glacier town
20. Visit one of the glaciers such as Franz Josef
- Why visit – There are 2 famous glaciers on the West coast: Fox and Franz Josef. My favorite is Franz Josef with the nice valley, the trees, the waterfalls and the angle of the view. See my comparison article .
- Location – Central West Coast South of Greymouth Greymouth to Franz Josef = 2h15 drive Wanaka to Franz Josef = 4h drive
- Access / Cost / Time – Free access Large carpark – complete walk 1h30 return. But you can go to a viewpoint further from the glacier in 25min
- Tips – There are some gorgeous colorful rocks along the way. Look down!
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Franz Josef town
And keep track of your own trip!
3 Coastal walk and activities in South Island New Zealand
21. cruise & walk at abel tasman.
- Why visit – Abel Tasman National Park is one of the most famous places sin New Zealand South island. It is dues to the fine golden sand beaches and the many opportunity for easy hiking. You can either walk or take a boat around the park or both!
- Location – North coast of South Island, West of Nelson Most boat departures are from Kaiteriteri beach Nelson to Kaiteriteri = 1h drive
- Access / Cost / Time – Free access to the park – Boat rides for a fee Plan half a day to a day. Multidy walks also possible
- Tips – If you have only a short time – use the ferry boat as a cruise. You can stay on board and see most of the main beaches along the way, as well as dolphins
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Kaiteriteri
22. Enter the cliff at Tunnel Beach (Best on New Zealand South Island East Coast)
- Why visit – This is some of the most beautiful coastal cliffs in NZ South island. The walk down with the view of the bridge is gorgeous. Plus you can walk inside a man-carved tunnel to reach a hidden sandy beach See more pictures on my Tunnel Beach article
- Location – Just South of Dunedin Dunedin to Tunnel beach = 10min drive
- Access / Cost / Time – The carpark is not very big but easy to access. The walk is quite steep (30 to 40min return). Downhill on the way to the beach. No shade Free access
- Tips – Visit at low tide!
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Dunedin
23. Punakaiki rocks
- Why visit – This is another one of the most famous geological wonders in New Zealand. The formation of the Pancake Rocks is not yet fully understood by the geologists. The whole area is covered with them stacked on top of each other. Erosion has created pools and a blowhole in between.
- Location – North West Coast North of Greymouth, on road 6 Greymouth to Punakaiki = 40min
- Access / Cost / Time – Easy walking loop – free access (donations welcomed) Direct access from Road 6
- Tips – Visit at high tide for a chance to see the blowhole blow up (but this is not guaranteed)
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Punakaiki
I don’t drink coffee
But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…
What to do in New Zealand’s South Island – other suggestions
24. wine marlborough.
- Why visit – The South island of New Zealand is also home of one of the most well-known New Zealand wines: Marlborough. The vineyards are on a flatland surrounded by hills creating beautiful scenery. All the wineries are very close together so you can easily do a tasting tour 🙂
- Location – All around Blenheim, North of South island Picton (ferry arrival) to Blenheim = 25min drive
- Access / Cost / Time – Free access to drive between the vineyards. You can visit or taste at many of them. Plan a drive through on your way to Kaikoura or stay longer to taste the local wines.
- Tips – At the Vines Village, you can walk to the back where they have set up a platform to better photograph the lines of vines.
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Blenheim
25. Drive the rim at Akaroa
- Why visit – And let’s finish with another one of my favorite drives in New Zealand. This is quite different. The Banks peninsula is an ancient volcanic area. The upper road to Akaroa is on the rim of the ancient volcano, where water has entered on one side. This scenery is fantastic in every direction.
- Location – South of Christchurch Christchurch to Akaroa = 1h20 drive via the shore road or 1h50 via the rim
- Access / Cost / Time – Free access The road on the rim is narrow but has a lot less traffic.
- Tips – I recommend spending the night in Akaroa to enjoy the changes in colors with the light
- Where to stay nearby – Check out the best rated accommodations in Akaroa
Planning a South Island New Zealand Road Trip itinerary
Must-see new zealand south island destinations.
When planning your trip I do think the unmissable destinations / regions are: Tekapo-Pukaki, Queenstown, Milford Sound, Kaikoura, Abel Tasman. But I have been blown away everywhere, so it is really difficult to tell you where not to go…
Planning your NZ South Island road trip
Tips to consider when planning your Road Trip itinerary around South Island NZ:
- The island is quite long with mountains – driving times are thus longer
- For wildlife, the East Coast is best,
- For dreamy beaches, head North
- And for mountains of fjords head South West
- You can check out my suggested itineraries around the South Island
- or Check out my eBooks with practical maps to help you plan your NZ road trip:
Things to do in New Zealand North Island – Intro
North island also has a lot off amazing things to do with volcanoes, geothermal wonderlands and coastal landscapes. You can check out my Top 25 .
And if you are limited time and need to choose between North and South island, you can also read my comparison article to help you decide.
Want to see more of New Zealand?
- New Zealand in 50 photos – read article
- 20 Best waterfalls in New Zealand – read article
- 15 most beautiful beaches in New Zealand – read article
- New Zealand hidden gems – read article
- How to plan a New Zealand road trip – read article
- New Zealand 2 week itinerary – read article
Want to see more of NEW ZEALAND?
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51 Best Things to Do on the South Island 🏔️ [2024]
The best activities, attractions, sights and tours on the south island.
When planning a trip to the South Island , it’s difficult to know where to begin. Well, how about you begin with this list of the 51 best things to do on the South Island? It covers a range of experiences; from the must-dos to the surprising finds, from the freebies to the luxurious treats, from the adventurous to the relaxing, and so on. You’re sure to find the South Island must-dos that suit your travel style.
Before we get into the best things to do on the South Island, open up The Best Travel Guide to New Zealand in a new tab to plan the rest of your trip.
1. Experience a Heli-Hike on the Tasman Glacier
You can do a few pretty epic things on the South Island, so let’s start with arguably one of the most epic! In Aoraki Mt Cook , you can land on New Zealand’s largest glacier in a helicopter and explore its ice caves (more info, read reviews and book tickets on Viator and KKday ) . As you may well know, glacier heli-hiking is also available in Franz Josef and Fox Glacier .
Location: Mt Cook, Canterbury. Learn more in the 7 Ways to Take on New Zealand’s Glaciers .
2. Meet an Adorable Kiwi Bird
See New Zealand’s iconic flightless bird, the kiwi, at one of the many conservation centres on the South Island, such as the Kiwi Birdlife Park in Queenstown (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor ) .
Location: Queenstown, Otago. Check out all of the locations across the South Island in Where to See Kiwi Birds in New Zealand .
3. Wander or Fly Through the Forest Canopy on the West Coast Zipline & Tree Top Walk
The unique elevated walk of the West Coast Zipline & Tree Top Walk is just the beginning. Climb to the top of Tower Zipline not only for breathtaking views of the surrounding coast and lake but to swoosh through the forest on a 425 m (1,394 ft) double zipline! For more information, head to treetopsnz.com/zipline .
Location: Hokitika, West Coast. Plan more of your visit in the 10 Best Things to Do in Hokitika .
4. Tour and Taste in New Zealand’s Largest Wine Region
Marlborough is New Zealand’s largest wine-producing region, renowned for its sauvignon blanc. Either visit wineries independently for tastings by hiring some bikes with Explore Marlborough or be chauffeured around on a driving tour with the Marlborough Tour Company (on Viator or Klook ) .
Location: Blenheim , Marlborough. Check out more South Island wine regions in the 10 Best Wine Tours in New Zealand .
5. Skydive Over Glaciers and the Tasman Sea at Franz Josef
Skydiving is huge in New Zealand; not only because of the country’s adventurous spirit but because of the stunning views seen during the freefall. We like Skydive Franz Josef for its mountains-to-sea views and tight operation (more info on Viator and Klook ) .
Location: Franz Josef , West Coast. See more amazing South Island dropzones in the 12 Best Places to Tandem Skydive in New Zealand .
6. Witness Crystal Clear Pools at Te Waikoropupū Springs
Te Waikoropupū Springs is the largest freshwater spring in New Zealand, releasing unbelievably clear water. Enjoy a short walk around the springs to see this natural wonder.
Location: Takaka , South Island. For more Takaka attractions, see the 10 Best Things to Do in Takaka .
7. Do Some Whale Watching in Kaikoura
Unlike many whale watching hotspots around the world, the whales in Kaikoura are here all year round. See these ocean giants for yourself on a whale watching cruise (more info on Viator and Klook ) .
Location: Kaikoura, Canterbury. See more locations for whale watching, particularly on the South Island, in the 5 Best Places to Spot Whales in New Zealand .
8. Enjoy a Cruise in the Famous Fiord of Milford Sound
If you know anything about the South Island, it’s probably something to do with Milford Sound . This majestic fiord has been dubbed the “Eighth Wonder of the World”, most commonly seen on cruises, which we list and compare in the 6 Best Cruises in Milford Sound .
Location: Fiordland National Park , Southland. Plan your trip to the fiord using The Complete Travel Guide to Milford Sound .
9. Visit Some Seal Colonies
Seeing these adorable marine mammals is a common occurrence on the South Island. See seal colonies from the Cape Foulwind Walkway in Westport or simply take up parking spots at the Point Kean car park in Kaikoura .
Location: Westport, West Coast or Kaikoura, Canterbury. See locations all over the South Island in the 14 Best Places to See Seals in New Zealand .
10. Experience Kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park
With more than 5,800 km (3,630 mi) of coastline, the South Island is an awesome place for kayaking. A hotspot for the watersport is the bush-clad and golden-sand shores of the Abel Tasman National Park on tours with Abel Tasman Kayaks .
Location: Abel Tasman National Park, Nelson Tasman. Hit more kayaking spots using the 10 Best Kayak Tours in New Zealand .
11. Take a Scenic Train Journey on the TranzAlpine
The South Island is home to one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys, as appeared on countless rankings, the TranzAlpine train (more info on Viator and Klook ) . This is mainly due to the gorgeous mountain scenery of the Arthur’s Pass National Park , which you can also drive through .
Location: Christchurch – Greymouth , Canterbury – West Coast. Learn more about taking the train in our New Zealand Train Guide .
12. Have Way Too Much Fun on the Downhill Go-Karts of The Luge
It might seem daft, but don’t underestimate the fun factor of The Luge . These downhill tracks in Queenstown are made for gravity-powered go-karts providing heaps of fun for all ages.
Location: Queenstown, Otago. See more wacky activities like this in the 9 Newest & Weirdest Extreme Activities in New Zealand .
13. Carve Your Own Maori Greenstone Pendant in Hokitika
Greenstone, also known as jade or pounamu, is a precious stone, particularly for the local Maori people. The shores of Hokitika and the West Coast have an abundance of the stone, making it a worthy place to try carving your own greenstone pendant .
Location: Hokitika, West Coast. See more Hokitika attractions in the 10 Best Things to Do in Hokitika .
14. Watch Penguins, Sea Lions, Albatross and More Wildlife on the Otago Peninsula
The Otago Peninsula is a mecca for some of the world’s rarest species of penguins and sea lions, as well as the largest seabird, the royal albatross. Join one of the guided tours on the peninsula to pretty much guarantee good viewings, such as with Back to Nature Tours .
Location: Dunedin , Otago. See more Dunedin highlights in the 10 Best Things to Do in Dunedin .
15. Explore Caves and Giant Arches in the Oparara Basin
A real hidden gem, the Oparara Basin has short walks to multiple caves and arches, including a 200 m (656 ft)-long arch! Plan your visit using the 7 Amazing Oparara Basin Walks .
Location: Karamea, West Coast. For more activities nearby, see the 7 Best Things to Do in Karamea .
16. Take the Leap with a Bungy Jump in Queenstown
Do this iconic adrenaline activity in the place where it was invented, Queenstown . There’s the original bungy jump from the Kawarau Bridge , the highest jump from the Nevis Bungy , and one that allows you to do a freestyle jump, The Ledge . Learn more about these jumps in the 7 Best Places to Bungy Jump in New Zealand .
Location: Queenstown, South Island. See more adrenaline activities in the 10 Epic Adventure Activities in Queenstown .
17. Step Back in Time on Ulva Island
Experience what New Zealand used to be like before human migration on Ulva Island (more info on Viator and Klook ) . Native parrots cackling in the trees and kiwi birds running across your path are not uncommon on this island which is just a short boat trip from Stewart Island .
Location: Stewart Island, Southland. See more Stewart Island experiences in the 10 Best Things to Do on Stewart Island .
18. Soak in the Spring Water of Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools
While the North Island might steal all the limelight for geothermal experiences like hot pools, there are still some noteworthy hot pool experiences on the South Island. One of the most famous is the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools , the largest in the country.
Location: Hanmer Springs , Canterbury. See the locations of other South Island hot pools in the 10 Best Hot Pools in New Zealand .
19. Tackle a “Great Walk”
Backpacking/tramping/multi-day hiking is a classic way to connect with nature and see the South Island’s breathtaking scenery. While there are hundreds of multi-day hikes in New Zealand, the ones with the best facilities are known as the New Zealand Great Walks . Add the Kepler Track or Abel Tasman Coast Track to your itinerary for a real adventure.
Location: See the locations of all of the Great Walks in The 10 Great Walks of New Zealand . For cheaper options, see the 12 Awesome Alternatives to the New Zealand Great Walks .
20. Experience a South Island Ski Season
In winter, the mountain comes alive with skiers and snowboarders carving the slopes. Skiing hotspots include Queenstown , Wanaka and Methven but you’ll find all sorts of small towns and old-school ski areas too.
Location: See all the locations in the Top 24 Ski Fields in New Zealand .
21. Swim with Dolphins
Nothing compares to encountering these intelligent creatures in their natural environment! Swim with acrobatic dusky dolphins in Kaikoura with Dolphin Encounter or playful bottlenose dolphins in Marlborough with E-Ko Tours .
Location: Kaikoura , Canterbury and Picton , Marlborough. For more activities, see the 10 Best Things to Do in Kaikoura .
22. Ride the Rapids in White Water Rafting
Along with the dramatic landscapes on the South Island are dramatic rivers for white water rafting! Rafting in Queenstown is a worthy option, taking you through old mining tunnels (more info on Viator , Klook and KKday ) .
Location: Queenstown, Otago. For more South Island rafting locations, check out the 7 Best Places to Go White Water Rafting in New Zealand .
23. Admire the Vibrant Blue Pools of Hokitika Gorge
As if painted in a picture, Hokitika Gorge boasts vividly blue pools. Enjoy a short walk to this beautiful river gorge on the West Coast , which you can learn more about in the 23 Best Walks in Hokitika .
Location: Hokitika , West Coast. See more photo spots like this in the 10 Picture Perfect Bridges in New Zealand .
24. See Glowworms in Te Anau
As vivid as the stars in the sky are the glowworms in the caves of Te Anau . Located across an expansive lake, the Te Anau Glowworm Caves has underground waterfalls and glowworm colonies (more info on Viator , Klook or KKday ) .
Location: Te Anau, Southland. Check out more locations with glowworms in the 7 Best Places to See the Famous Glowworms in New Zealand .
25. Check Out McLean Falls in The Catlins
A road trip around the South Island is typically full of waterfalls. Arguably, some of the most beautiful can be found in The Catlins . McLean Falls is a rewarding waterfall to visit with climbable terraces. Also, add the nearby Purakaunui Falls to the list.
Location: The Catlins, Southland-Otago. For more South Island waterfalls to visit, check out the 12 Most Wonderful Waterfalls in New Zealand .
26. Explore the Shores of Farewell Spit and Wharariki Beach
Get off the beaten track to the sandy shores of Golden Bay where two ruggedly beautiful coastal sights await. Farewell Spit is New Zealand’s longest sandspit and one of the most protected places in the country. Nearby, Wharariki Beach looks out to the photogenic Archway Islands.
Location: Golden Bay, Nelson Tasman. For more things to see in the area, see the 19 Epic Natural Attractions in Golden Bay .
27. Stargaze in an International Dark Sky Reserve
New Zealand is not only home to a Dark Sky Reserve in Mt Cook and Lake Tekapo but a Dark Sky Sanctuary on Stewart Island . This basically means that these South Island locations are among some of the best places in the world to stargaze.
Location: Aoraki Mt Cook/Lake Tekapo – Stewart Island. See more locations in the 5 Best Stargazing Sites in New Zealand .
28. Do Horse Riding in the Cardrona Valley
Gallop across the plains or beaches, climb the hills and navigate the forests on a horse trekking tour on the South Island. An excellent choice is The Cardrona between Wanaka and Queenstown , but you can take your pick from the 10 Best Horse Treks in New Zealand .
Location: Cardrona Valley, Otago. For more activities nearby, see the 10 Best Things to Do in Geraldine .
29. Experience New Zealand’s Farming Culture at Walter Peak
Farming has been a way of life in New Zealand for more than a century and tours like those at Walter Peak give visitors a fun insight into sheep shearing, cattle rearing and more (more info on Viator , Klook and KKday ) .
Location: Queenstown , Otago. See more family-friendly activities like this in the 50 Best Things to Do in New Zealand with Kids .
30. Gaze Upon the Reflections of Lake Matheson
It doesn’t get more postcard-perfect than Lake Matheson . The loop walk around the lake takes you to various viewpoints with reflections of the Southern Alps in the inky black water.
Location: Fox Glacier , West Coast. For more lakes to admire, see the 21 Mind-Blowing Lakes in New Zealand .
31. Go On a Jet Boat Excursion in Haast
Jet boating on the South island comes in two forms: a thrill ride or an excursion. Waiatoto River Safari offers the latter, taking you on a scenic journey from the Tasman Sea to the valleys of the Mt Aspiring National Park .
Location: Haast , West Coast. Take a look at the different jet boat tours in the 17 Best Places to Jet Boat in New Zealand .
32. Experience Off-Roading in Greymouth
Drive on the off-roading trails of bush, bog and pastures with On Yer Bike in Greymouth . They have self-drive quad bikes and 4×4 buggies, as well as Hagglund rides for families.
Location: Greymouth, West Coast. For more South Island off-roading locations, check out the 10 Best Places for Quad Biking in New Zealand .
33. Zipline Through the Forest in Queenstown
Soar through the forest on an exciting ziplining tour with Ziptrek Eco Tours in Queenstown (more info on Viator , Klook and KKday ) . There are multiple giant ziplines through the forest which you can even ride upside down.
Location: Queenstown, Otago. For more zipline locations, check out the 10 Best Places to Zipline in New Zealand .
34. Ride the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail
Just like the multi-day tramping trails, New Zealand is also home to some breathtaking multi-day cycle journeys. Cycle from Aoraki Mt Cook to the Pacific Ocean on the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail or one of the 10 Best Bike Trails on the South Island .
Location: Mt Cook – Oamaru , South Island. For more places to ride your bike, head to The Best Mountain Biking Regions in New Zealand .
35. Walk to Devil’s Punchbowl Falls
Nestled in the Arthur’s Pass National Park, Devil’s Punchbowl Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the country. It’s also one of the 20 Best Short Walks on the South Island .
Location: Arthur’s Pass National Park , Canterbury. For more waterfalls to see, head to the 12 Most Wonderful Waterfalls in New Zealand .
36. See Mountains, Glacier Lakes and More on the Hooker Valley Track
More stellar scenery awaits on the Hooker Valley Track of the Aoraki Mt Cook National Park . Walk from suspension bridge to suspension bridge under the gaze of towering mountains until you reach a glacier lake with Aoraki Mt Cook piercing the sky in the distance.
Location: Aoraki Mt Cook National Park, Canterbury. For more unmissable walks, check out the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Mt Cook .
37. Wander Among the Boulders of Castle Hill
If you hadn’t had enough of the South Island’s spectacular natural formations then head to Kura Tawhiti , also known as Castle Hill . Here, you’ll find majestic limestone formations on the access track.
Location: Castle Hill, Canterbury. See more sights nearby in the 10 Underrated Places to Visit in Canterbury .
38. Stretch Your Legs at Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Another reason to stretch your legs on the South Island is for its spectacular gardens, especially those in Christchurch . Check out the duck ponds, rose gardens, native gardens and water features at the Christchurch Botanic Gardens .
Location: Christchurch, Canterbury. Explore more attractions like this in the 20 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Christchurch .
39. Tour the Shamarra Alpaca Farm in Akaroa
A surprising find in New Zealand is alpaca farms! Feed, stroke and get a photo with the alpacas of Shamarra Alpaca Farm in Akaroa .
Location: Akaroa, Canterbury. Plan more of your trip to Akaroa using the 10 Akaroa Must-Dos .
40. Try Via Ferrata Climbing with Wildwire Wanaka
You don’t need to be a pro climber to experience the sensation of scouring cliff faces and waterfalls. Wildwire Wanaka has set up a fun via ferrata climbing course with steel ladders and bridges.
Location: Wanaka, Otago. Check out The Complete Travel Guide to Wanaka to plan more of your trip.
41. See How Beer is Made on the Monteith’s Brewery Tour
Discover New Zealand’s passion for beer making on a brewery tour, such as the Monteith’s Brewery in Greymouth .
Location: Greymouth, West Coast. More brewery tour locations can be found in the 10 Best New Zealand Beer Tours .
42. Check Out the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes
For more reasons to travel to the West Coast , the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks are a must-see. Feast your eyes on these oddly-shaped rocks stacked like pancakes with powerful blowhole displays at high tide.
Location: Punakaiki, West Coast. There’s more stuff to do here, which you can find out about in the 9 Best Things to Do in Punakaiki .
43. Enter the Alternative World of Steampunk HQ
One of the quirkier attractions on the South Island, Steampunk HQ is a sci-fi museum and art gallery with all sorts of wacky inventions. What’s more, it’s an excellent rainy day activity.
Location: Oamaru , Otago. Check out more attractions nearby in the 10 Best Things to Do in Oamaru .
44. Visit Larnach Castle, New Zealand’s Only Castle
That’s right, Larnach Castle is New Zealand’s only castle and boasts a position fit for a king on a hilltop of the Otago Peninsula. Visit the castle for high tea, tours and accommodation.
Location: Dunedin, Otago. Check out The Complete Travel Guide to Dunedin to plan your trip.
45. See Realistic World War Scenes at the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre
Forget your tired museum displays, the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is a high-budget affair showcasing warplanes and memorabilia in realistic static displays (more info on Viator and Klook ) .
Location: Blenheim, Marlborough. Explore more of Blenheim using the 10 Best Things to Do in Blenheim .
46. Get a Photo of the Moeraki Boulders
A popular stop between Dunedin and Oamaru , these perfectly spherical boulders are a cool feature to see at low tide. Plan your visit using The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Moeraki Boulders .
Location: Hampden, South Island. See more attractions nearby in the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Oamaru .
47. Stand on the World’s Steepest Street
That’s right, Baldwin Street in Dunedin holds the Guinness World Record for the steepest street! Need we say more?
Location: Dunedin, Otago. Add a visit to Baldwin Street to your 20 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dunedin .
48. Find the Hidden Gem of Washpen Falls
You wouldn’t think there’s much to see among the endless fields of the Canterbury Plains, but that’s what makes Washpen Falls such a hidden gem. More than just a waterfall walk, Washpen Falls features volcanic remnants, Maori archaeological sites, stunning viewpoints and a lagoon with a cute rowing boat.
Location: Methven, Canterbury. Plan more items for the itinerary in the 10 Best Things to Do in Methven .
49. Race a Go-Kart or Ride in a Supercar at Highlands Motorsport Park
If you have the need for speed then get yourself down to Cromwell where the Highland Motorsport Park offers a supercar lap and outdoor go-karting .
Location: Cromwell, Otago. You can do all of these 10 Best Things to Do in Cromwell too.
50. Walk Among the Otherworldly Landscape of the Clay Cliffs
Weathered into the cliffs of Omarama is an array of pinnacles and canyons to explore. After a road trip down the Lindis Pass , take a short detour to the Clay Cliffs and be amazed.
Location: Omarama, Otago. Find more activities in the 5 Best Things to Do in Omarama .
51. Cycle the Roxburgh Gorge Trail
There’s no real reason that we’ve left a day-long mountain biking trail until point #51; there’s just too much to do on the South Island! Regardless, an awesome day trail is the Roxburgh Gorge Trail near Alexandra .
Location: Alexandra, Otago. See more top trails in the 10 Best Bike Trails on the South Island .
More Things to Do on the South Island and New Zealand
That’s it for the best things to do on the South Island. Now discover more activities to do around New Zealand:
- 51 Best Things to Do on the North Island
- 101 Things to Do in New Zealand: The Ultimate List
- 10 Unique & Unusual Things to Do on the South Island
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in The Complete Travel Guide to New Zealand .
This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in New Zealand over 10 years ago and with a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to travel New Zealand. She knows Aotearoa inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience New Zealand’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides and is the co-host of NZ Pocket Guide’s live New Zealand travel Q&As on YouTube.
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10 Must-See Must-Do On The South Island Of New Zealand
Learn what are 10 of the not to be missed places on the South Island of New Zealand.
The following must-see locations are not based on popularity with tourists – although many of the locations are popular tourist spots – but rather on the potential, emotional impact you may experience when seeing the scenery.
Starting from the top of the South Island of New Zealand and going in a counterclockwise direction, here are my top 10 places not to miss on the South Island of New Zealand…
1. Marlborough Sounds
If you take the ferry from Wellington to Picton, you will already experience part of the grandeur of the Marlborough Sounds. However, you can also go for a hike to see one or more of the sounds.
The Marlborough Sounds is all about bush-clad mountains jotting out into the sea, where the color of the water enclosed by the sounds will mesmerize you.
Kenepuru Sound, Marlborough Sounds, South Island, New Zealand
2. Abel Tasman National Park and Golden Bay
When you get off the ferry in Picton, Motueka is a 2-hour drive to the west. Motueka is a good town to stay in close to Abel Tasman National Park, since it provides all of the basic amenities and more – including fast food restaurants. Golden Bay is located a bit further away, up over Takaka Hill.
When I think of Abel Tasman and Golden Bay, beaches, beaches, and more beaches with gorgeous golden sand and water come to mind, in combination with bush that refreshes the mind and soul, especially if you go for a long hike along the coast.
Frenchman Bay inlet, Abel Tasman National Park, South Island, New Zealand
3. Punakaiki pancake rocks and the rugged West Coast
While the rocks at Punakaiki are something special to see if you are a Geologist or Geophysicist like myself, the blowholes make them extra special for normal tourists.
And why not make a short stop there to stretch your legs as you drive down the West Coast? It takes about 3 hours to drive from Motueka to Punakaiki so a short break from driving would be good. You can find more driving times between cities on the South Island on the South Island driving distances & times page.
The rugged coastline of the West Coast, especially the top half of the western side of the South Island, will surely impress you.
Also visit: The seal colony near Westport and Mangatini Falls if you are into a little bit of (coal mining) history with a huge waterfall as the climax.
4. The glaciers: Fox Glacier or Franz Josef Glacier
If you can book a glacier hike, do it. The glaciers are slowly melting away as Earth gets warmer. To be able to get close to all of that ice – sometimes with a nice light-blue color – is an experience of a lifetime.
Also visit: Lake Matheson near Fox Glacier. Lake Matheson is best viewed on a windless day to increase your chances of getting an iconic photo of the reflection of the mountains in the lake.
Lake Matheson near Fox Glacier, West Coast, South Island, New Zealand
5. Lake Pukaki and Mount Cook
The first time I saw Lake Pukaki “live” I literally screamed in my rental car. I had seen it many times in photographs, but to see the real thing was incredible. Combine this with a view of Mount Cook on a perfectly cloudless day, and you’ve got yourself a view that everyone should see before they die.
After you stop at the Lake Pukaki and Mount Cook lookout on State Highway 8, hook onto State Highway 80 and drive toward Mount Cook National Park. If the weather is fine, you should be able to enjoy views of Lake Pukaki and Mount Cook along this scenic route.
There are also several short walks you can do in Mount Cook National Park to see more of Mount Cook and other mountains in the area.
6. Scenic flight over Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook
The South Island always looks gorgeous from above, especially during winter in New Zealand. The mountains, glaciers, lakes, and rivers are guaranteed to impress you, especially if you view them from above.
Pick a nice day, book a scenic flight that has a route that passes above Lake Tekapo and Mount Cook, and you’ve got yourself a winner. Try a scenic flight with Air Safaris in Tekapo.
While tour operators tend to require at least two people for a scenic flight, if you are traveling alone in New Zealand like I always do, you can sometimes join a party of two without having to pay a single supplement or for an invisible second person. Just make sure that you pick the best time to visit New Zealand as a solo traveler.
Scenic flight over Mount Cook and Tasman Glacier, South Island, New Zealand
Also visit: Mount John Observatory or do the Mount John walk.
7. Milford Sound
Milford Sound is known for its mountain peaks jutting out of the sea like towers in combination with huge waterfalls. Therefore, I highly recommend doing a Milford Sound boat tour.
The drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound can take up to 4 hours, but you can cut down on that time by doing, for example, a Fly-Cruise-Fly tour starting in Queenstown.
This means that you would first catch a scenic flight to Milford Sound, do the Milford Sound cruise, and then fly back to Queenstown. Such a tour would not only allow you to see the mountains around Queenstown from above but also allow you to enjoy the mountain peaks and waterfalls of Milford Sound on a boat.
Milford Sound boat tour, South Island, New Zealand
8. The Catlins
When I think of the Catlins, the colour green comes to mind: green rolling hills, green bush, and mossy green rocks around waterfalls. The Catlins also has beaches and wildlife such as seals, penguins, and birds.
Roaring Bay, Catlins, South Island, New Zealand
Also visit: Nugget Point.
9. Otago Peninsula beaches and coastline
While I’m not a big fan of Dunedin – or any of the larger cities in New Zealand – I am a big fan of the coastal scenery around Dunedin and especially the Otago Peninsula. Therefore, if you visit Dunedin, I highly recommend you take a scenic drive on Portobello Road and Harington Point Road on the Otago Peninsula.
Also in the neighborhood: Larnach Castle.
10. Kaikoura Coast
Most of the coast along the eastern side of the South Island is “littered” by water running off mountains into rivers and eventually into the sea. This water takes rock particles along with it, which eventually mixes with the seawater. This gives the water along the coast a weird but very beautiful light-green color.
You can see this light-green water when driving along the east coast from Picton to Kaikoura or lower down the South Island between Christchurch and Dunedin after you get off the Canterbury Pacific Highway on your way to Dunedin.
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Top 10 things to do in New Zealand’s South Island
Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes that served as the backdrop to The Lord of the Rings trilogy and Narnia. (Image: Miles Holden)
BY Imogen Eveson
Last updated . 19 April 2023
Come for the spectacular landscapes and stay for the character and culture of New Zealand’s South Island.
The undeniable allure of New Zealand’s South Island lies in its spectacular landscapes: an assembly of lofty mountains, glossy fiords and ancient glaciers that will take your breath away at every turn.
But in between tramping , wilderness cruising and ice trekking, you’ll also encounter plenty of fascinating culture and idle delights: from discovering a city reinvented to sipping on the world’s best pinot noir, and from exploring New Zealand’s only castle to reposing in one of the top stargazing spots on the planet. Here’s our guide to doing it all.
1. Have an adventure in Queenstown
Set on the shore of Lake Wakatipu against a dramatic backdrop of the Southern Alps, scenic Queenstown is one of the adventure capitals of the world.
Test your mettle by bungy jumping , mountain biking , jet boating , quad biking , white-water rafting or sky diving , or take to the snow in one of the town’s four ski areas from June to October.
Bungy jump from The Ledge in Queenstown. (Image: AJ Hackett)
Then take it down a notch by exploring the city’s excellent food scene (but don’t miss a high-octane burger from famous Fergburger ).
Queenstown is also a regional hub: a 20-minute drive from the historic mining town of Arrowtown and 45 minutes from Glenorchy, whose spectacular landscapes have featured in both The Lord of the Rings trilogy and Narnia .
It’s a gateway to the South Island’s Central Otago wine region, too.
2. Sample the South Island’s other wine regions
The South Island lays claim to the Marlborough region, whose sauvignon blanc put New Zealand on the international wine stage, but it’s also home to plenty more wine regions besides that are definitely worth your attention.
Explore Central Otago near Queenstown, with its mountainous landscapes and some of the world’s best pinot noir, and the bucolic Canterbury and North Canterbury wine regions near Christchurch, where the Southern Alps meet rolling plains to create elegant pinot noir, chardonnay and aromatic wines.
Explore the wine region in Canterbury and North Canterbury. (Image: Graeme Murray)
3. See Fiordland National Park by boat, air or on foot
If New Zealand’s South Island is renowned for its spectacular natural landscapes, then Fiordland National Park encapsulates them all.
This ancient environment on the island’s south-west corner is composed of fiords, lakes, waterfalls, rainforests and snow-capped peaks, and is ready to be explored by boat, air or on foot.
Join wilderness cruises to explore the unspoilt wonders of Milford and Doubtful sounds; embark on a multiday hike – or tramp, as they say here (Fiordland is home to some of the country’s best) – such as the Hollyford , Kepler or Hump Ridge track; or take a scenic flight over the park to gulp it all in on one epic adventure.
Explore Milford Sound Fiordland on a wilderness cruise, (Image: Tourism New Zealand)
4. Stargaze in Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Aoraki/Mount Cook, on the South Island’s west coast, is not only New Zealand’s highest mountain but also one of the best stargazing spots on Earth.
The serene beauty of Aoraki Lake needs to be seen to be believed. (Image: Will Patino)
Designated in 2012, the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is one of only two of its kind in the southern hemisphere (South Australia’s Murray River Region was designated an International Dark Sky Reserve in 2019).
Experiencing the dazzling sky here – almost entirely free of light pollution – via astro operators like Big Sky Stargazing and Dark Sky Project .
Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park is also home to New Zealand’s most spectacular and accessible glaciers: Fox and Franz Josef . Take a heli hike tour – which incorporates ice trekking – for the ultimate experience.
Experience Fox Glacier on the West Coast, one of New Zealand’s most spectacular and accessible glaciers. (Image: Miles Holden)
5. Abel Tasman National Park
Small but perfectly formed, Abel Tasman National Park is where to head for a taste of Kiwi beach life .
You can cruise, sail or sea kayak through this coastal paradise but equally you can simply relax on its golden sandy beaches and dabble in a gentle spot of swimming and snorkelling.
Don’t miss crescent-shaped Kaiteriteri; spectacular Awaroa with its maze of golden sand banks; the tranquil oasis of Onetahuti; the wide sweep of Totaranui; or the small horse-shoe shaped bay of Te Puketea, with its ancient Maori pa (fort) site.
Kayak through the coastal paradise within Abel Tasman National Park. (Image: Fraser Clements)
6. Get away from it all in Marlborough Sounds
Located at the top of the South Island, Marlborough Sounds is a collection of ancient sunken river valleys filled with the waters of the Pacific Ocean that comprise 1500 kilometres of New Zealand’s coastline.
Marlborough Sounds from above.
Best accessed from the seaside town of Picton, its winding waterways, sheltered inlets and sandy bays make for excellent boating, fishing, diving and wildlife spotting (including dolphins).
It’s also an ideal place to get away from it all: embark on the iconic multi-day Queen Charlotte Track , which traverses coastal forest, historic bays and ridges with mind-boggling views, with welcome resorts and lodges along the way.
Or fast-track the downtime by whisking yourself away in a water taxi to one of these remote retreats, such as the five-star Bay of Many Coves or characterful Lochmara Lodge .
Catch a water taxi for a stay at the five-star Bay of Many Coves.
7. Have an animal encounter on the east coast
The east coast eco-marine town of Kaikoura, 2.5 hours’ drive north of Christchurch , is home to some of the country’s top wildlife experiences.
A Maori-owned operator committed to sustainable tourism, Whale Watch offers the chance to see giant sperm whales all year round.
Whale watching in Kaikoura. (Image: Miles Holden)
Humpback, pilot, blue and southern right whales might also make an appearance depending on the season, and you might spot pods of leaping dusky dolphins, the wandering albatross or New Zealand fur seals, too.
Spot pods of dolphins. (Image: Miles Holden)
For a guaranteed dalliance with a fur seal, or kekeno in Maori, look up Seal Swim Kaikoura or Kaikoura Kayaks , or drive to the Peninsula Seal Colony to see them basking on the rocks and frolicking in the surf.
Make contact with the seal colony. (Image: Kyle Mulinder)
For another set of wildlife encounters in a quirky east coast town, don’t miss Oamaru, three hours’ drive south of Christchurch.
Come for its blue penguin colony and stay for its Victorian architecture and steampunk museum .
8. Soak in the creativity in Christchurch
A series of tremors in 2010 and 2011, known as the Canterbury earthquakes, devastated the South Island’s largest city. In the decade since, Christchurch has undergone a process of rebuilding and reinvention.
The elegance and quintessential Englishness that the city was once most known for is still here: take a punt down the Avon River with a gentleman dressed in Edwardian garb and stroll the Botanic Gardens or elegant quadrangles of the Gothic Revival-style Arts Centre to see for yourself.
Take a punt down the river in Christchurch. (Image: Graeme Murray)
But what’s most striking today is the grass-roots creativity that has emerged across the city in the form of creative precincts like the Riverside Market , Boxed Quarter and The Colombo , vibrant street art and public sculpture trails .
9. Visit New Zealand’s only castle
Situated on the picturesque Otago Peninsula just outside Dunedin (the second-largest city in the South Island), Larnach Castle is New Zealand’s only castle.
It was built in 1871 by merchant baron and politician William Larnach and provides an insight into Victorian culture and Dunedin’s past – a city founded on Scottish heritage whose name comes from the Scottish Gaelic word for Edinburgh.
It was restored by the Barker family after they purchased it as a family home in 1967, and today you can take history tours, have high tea in the Ballroom Cafe and stay the night in one of its unique accommodation offerings.
Larnach Castle is New Zealand’s only castle. (Image: Dunedin NZ)
10. Go wild on Stewart Island
Stewart Island/Rakiura is a unique Kiwi escape located 30 kilometres south of the South Island (one hour by ferry from Bluff, a fishing port renowned for its oysters).
Its Maori name means ‘the land of glowing skies’, and – true enough – the Aurora Australis do often appear in these southern skies.
The island is home to New Zealand’s newest national park, Rakiura National Park , and 85 per cent lies within its boundaries.
Most travellers come here for birdwatching and hiking: the brown kiwi, or tokoeka , outnumbers humans here, while the three-day Rakiura Track provides a sweeping overview of Stewart Island’s wild beauty (a potent mix of dense coastal rainforests, freshwater wetlands, vast sand dunes and granite mountain ranges).
Stop by Stewart Island for the birdwatching and hiking. (Image: Matt Crawford)
Spend your nights in a backcountry hut managed by the Department of Conservation listening to the call of the ruru (native owl) or check into a bed and breakfast or boutique lodge such as Observation Rock Lodge .
Read our ultimate travel guide to New Zealand for more insider tips before you go.
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10 amazing places to visit in the South Island
Stunning mountain peaks, alpine lakes, gorgeous beaches and huge glaciers – New Zealand’s South Island is one of the most picturesque and interesting places to travel in the world. The coastlines are filled with an abundance of wildlife, deep fiords and unforgettable experiences. It’s no surprise tourists flock from all over the world to explore our beautiful South Island.
So, where are the must-see spots? Stay tuned for our top ten amazing places to visit in the stunning South!
Ways to travel the South Island, New Zealand
When travelling, the biggest frustration is usually the lack of time you have to see everything! New Zealand’s South Island isn’t huge, but you’ll still need to organise some form of transport to get you around.
Some of the most popular ways to travel the South Island are: Hire a car – with a rental car you’ll be able to explore at your own pace and schedule. Moving from place to place, you’ll easily be able to find places to stay, and renting a car in New Zealand is also a budget-friendly option. If you’re new to driving in New Zealand, make sure to check out the NZ Road Code to keep yourself and fellow drivers safe!
Rent a Campervan – road tripping around the South Island in a campervan is arguably the most popular and best way to travel. Around the island, you can find hundreds of holiday parks and campgrounds in beautiful locations. So park up for the night and take in the gorgeous night sky! Make sure you’re a tidy camper though! Tiaki New Zealand has some great tips on being a responsible traveller in New Zealand.
Bus – New Zealand has a large Intercity bus grid that can get you almost anywhere you want to go. This is also a great option if you would prefer to sit back, relax and take in your surroundings rather than focusing on the road. Organised bus tours such as Wild Kiwi and Haka Tours do all the planning for you so you can just enjoy your holiday. It isn’t the cheapest option for groups, but for a solo traveller, this would be a great choice.
Fly – Air New Zealand operates flights between all major cities and airports. However, there are very few in New Zealand’s South Island making flying difficult – not to mention you’ll miss those stunning views from the road!
10 Must-See Destinations on the South Island
1. milford sound.
Milford Sound is often referred to as the 8th Wonder of the World – when you see it for yourself, we guarantee you’ll agree! Milford Sound, although technically a fiord, was carved out by a glacier thousands of years ago and is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the South Island. This ancient valley is a must-visit on any trip to New Zealand.
When it comes to ways to explore Milford Sound, we’ve got the largest selection of tours available. These include our Scenic Cruise, Nature Cruise, and Encounter Nature Cruise.
We also own and operate the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory and run kayaking trips in one of the most beautiful parts of Milford, Harrison Cove. On top of that, we can also get you to and from Milford via a comfortable coach from either Te Anau or Queenstown or a scenic flight from Queenstown . We’d highly recommend you travel at least one direction via the road – the road to Milford is truly exceptional and just as much part of the experience.
If you want to experience Milford Sound for a longer period of time, then consider spending a night at the Milford Lodge , which actually happens to be the only accommodation available!
2. Queenstown
Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand and home to so many amazing things to do all year round. In the winter it’s a skier’s paradise, and in the summer, a hiker’s dream. Trust us, there’s no shortage of things to do in Queenstown. From Queenstown, you can explore Lake Wakatipu aboard our Spirit of Queenstown Scenic Cruise , go jet boating , or venture out onto some of the most popular hiking trails like Ben Lomond Summit.
One of the other tours we offer in Queenstown is our Station 2 Station Cycle Trail. This short but stunning bike trail located across Lake Wakatipu is in an area very few get to see or explore. The self-guided tour includes a cruise aboard the Spirit of Queenstown and the TSS Earnslaw.
Another activity you can’t miss in Queenstown is checking out a real working Merino Wool farm. On our Mt Nicholas Farm Experience you’ll get to meet the animals that help out on the farm and do a tour of the farm and its spectacular scenery.
This small town is nestled along the shores of Lake Wanaka, and like Queenstown, has stunning views of the Southern Alps. It’s located only an hour’s drive from Queenstown and in winter is the gateway to the Cardrona Ski Field – one of New Zealand’s best ski fields.
In the summer months, Wanaka is the perfect place to explore Mt Aspiring National Park. Around Lake Wanaka, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. One of the most popular and a must do is the famous Roy’s Peak. Don’t be fooled, as beautiful as it might be, this 16km round trip hike is also very challenging.
4. Te Anau – Gateway to Milford Sound
Te Anau is the closest town to Milford Sound and for that reason alone it’s worth checking off your South Island bucket list. From Te Anau, we offer transport via coach to and from Milford Sound that also includes a Milford Sound cruise.
Around Te Anau, there are other places to visit other than Milford Sound. In fact, around Lake Te Anau there are plenty of stunning hiking trails including the very popular Kepler Track. The Kepler Track is one of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks . The classic trail is 3-nights and 4-days however you can opt to do a day hike to the Luxmore Hut, which is arguably the most beautiful part of the trail.
5. Mt Cook National Park
There are few national parks in New Zealand as popular as Mt Cook. Out of the 12 largest glaciers in New Zealand, Mt Cook is home to 8 of them and around 40% of the park is made up of glaciers. Mt Cook itself is New Zealand’s tallest mountain at 3,724m and a stunning site to see. It was on this mountain that Sir Edmund Hillary trained for his successful ascent of Mt Everest.
In the park, there are lots of amazing hiking trails, many of which are accessible to almost anyone. One of the best and easiest is the Hooker Valley Track. Although a 10km round trip, the trail is very well maintained and flat. It ends at the Hooker Lake and from here you can see Mt Cook reflect off its surface.
6. Kaikoura
Kaikoura is a beautiful coastal town located just north of Christchurch. It’s known for its abundance of marine wildlife which includes Sperm Whales and Dolphins. Since the 2016 Kaikoura earthquake, the landscape has vastly changed, which has made it an even more fascinating place to visit!
Some of the most popular things to do in Kaikoura are Whale and Dolphin watching or swimming with Hector Dolphins. Hector Dolphins are the world’s smallest dolphin and in Kaikoura, you can jump into the water on a licensed tour and swim with these beautiful creatures. They are known to be very playful and inquisitive.
7. The Catlins
The Catlins is a region on the southern coast between Dunedin and Invercargill. The region is famous for its remote coastline that’s home to the rarest penguin in the world, the Yellow-Eyed Penguin. There are only 5000 of these birds left in the world and Curio Bay in the Catlins is one of the best places to see them.
But the Catlins isn’t just about wildlife, you can explore many different waterfalls and also visit the southernmost point of New Zealand’s South Island. The Catlins makes for a great road trip with plenty of stunning places to stop along the side of the road. 8. Abel Tasman National park
Abel Tasman National Park is world-renowned for its stunning coastline and beautiful native forests. It’s also home to the famous Abel Tasman Coastal Track. The hiking trail is one of New Zealand’s best hikes and one of the 10 Great Walks. Of course, you don’t have to complete the multi-day trail to visit some of the most beautiful spots as the entire coastline is filled with beautiful bays and lush forest to explore.
A very popular way to explore is by kayak. From a kayak, you can paddle to many secluded bays and maybe even find a small beach all to yourself. Abel Tasman is the perfect place to visit in summer and great for anyone who loves a day at the beach.
9. The West Coast
The West Coast is a unique mix of New Zealand’s alpine and forest environments and Franz Josef is one of the best areas to see this. From Franz Josef town, you can head off to either the Fox or Franz Josef Glacier viewpoint trails and get a close look at two of New Zealand’s most famous glaciers. Both the walking trails are free and take around an hour from start to finish.
Once you’ve explored the glaciers you can then head off and see the famous Blue Pools. The Blue Pools are as the name suggests – and believe us, they are very blue! Around the pools, you can wander a few short hiking trails that lead through the beautiful forest areas or if you’re brave, take a dip in the ice cold glacier water.
Hokitika is another West Coast destination well worth checking out. The Hokitika Gorge Walk is a short walk offering views of the Hokitika River. It’s only 650 meters long making it the perfect short walk for families travelling the West Coast.
10. Christchurch
Christchurch is the South Island’s largest city. It is an ideal place to start or end your South Island travels with their international airport being your gateway into the south.
But, what many people don’t know is that there is actually a lot to do in Christchurch itself. You can go explore the city’s history checking out the Air Force Museum of New Zealand, the Canterbury Museum, or even Quake City where you can learn about the earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 and their aftermath.
You can also go for a stroll through the beautiful Botanic Gardens or along Brockworth Street looking at all of the incredible street art. There are also plenty of hiking trails and nearby beaches to explore!
We would love to show you around our backyard! If you come to Queenstown, Te Anau or Milford, come try one of our amazing South Island experiences.
Anna Sherchand
Solo Female Travel Blog
14 Most Beautiful Places In New Zealand South Island
Looking for the most beautiful places on New Zealand south island? You found it! I will also be recommending some fun and interesting things to do in each of these locations. And guys, these places I am mentioning are not only very Instagrammable but also naturally stunning! So, I suggest including them in your new Zealand south island itinerary.
Now without further ado, let’s begin,
14 Must-See Most Beautiful Places In New Zealand South Island
Interesting things to do at lake tekapo are:, fun things to do in mount cook are:, recommendations for queenstown, best way to experience fiordland national park, how to see the best of the stewart islands, recommendation for mount aspiring np, suggestions for arthur’s pass, best way to see pancake rocks, 9. omarama clay cliffs, recommendations for marlborough sounds, 11. roys peak, 12. hokitika gorge, 13. twelve mile delta to bob’s cove, unique things to do in christchurch, let me know in the comments, 1. lake tekapo.
Lake Tekapo is a small town located at the southern end of the lake of the same name in the inland South Island of New Zealand. There is also a Church of Shepard at the lake. The church keeper said back in the day people came over here to build the dam (which is behind the lake) and later on decided to live here because of its beautiful landscape. No wonder it is one of the most beautiful places on south island New Zealand.
If you want to do hitchhiking or/and carpooling, NZ is one of the safest countries to experience it as well. But In case something goes wrong, before you get in the car I suggest you take the photo of the car plate and send it to your family/friends and do your FB/google investigation beforehand. Just in case!
If you are not time-poor and a fan of beautiful Lakes, also recommend checking out Lake Wakatipu and Lake Pukaki. Both lakes are quite similar as far as their turquoise-blue waters and surrounding scenery go but they’re also different in their own ways.
Best Instagrammable places in North Island of New Zealand
Lake Tekapo: Single Day Pass for Hot Pools
2-Hour Stargazing Tour at Mt John Observatory in Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo: Glaciers, Mountains, and Landscapes Scenic Tour
Hot Tubs Omarama: Admission Ticket for 1.5-Hour Session
Tekapo: Immersive Indoor Stargazing and Astronomy Experience
2. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
Mount Cook had been on my must-see list of places for a long time. It worked out great because it was only an hour’s drive from Lake Tekapo. On the way there, my rideshare and road trip was all about sharing stories and listening to A LOT of music. I can definitely say I know most songs by Ed Sheeran now!
Aoraki / Mount Cook national park is New Zealand’s highest peak and possibly the most Instagrammed part of the country. You can also experience the beauty of Mt cook on foot wandering the easy Hooker Valley Track, enjoying a birds-eye view, or taking to the surrounding turquoise waters by boat or stargazing at night. I would say Mt Cook is a must-do if you are on South Island New Zealand travel. Also, hooker valley around the area may be worth a visit.
Auckland solo travel tips
50-Minute Mount Cook and Beyond Scenic Flight
Mount Cook Full-Day Tour: (From Queenstown to Christchurch)
From Queenstown: Mount Cook Small Group Adventure
3. Queenstown aka adventure capital of the world
Today I was ready to head towards Queenstown also known as the adventure capital of the world. This stunning lakeside resort reminded me of Banff in Canada which is equally beautiful and serene. In Queenstown, you can find all kinds of thrills for adrenalin seekers. From the iconic bungy jumping and jet boating to quad biking, white water rafting, river surfing, skydiving, and canyon swings. There is something for everyone!
I always thought I would love to experience Bungy Jump in New Zealand because of its beautiful landscape. I had it even on my bucket list. Luckily the day I went, it was Aj Hackett’s Birthday anniversary! So Bungy Jump was half-priced at $100! I was nervous but took the discount as a green light to do it! It is fair to say it is one of the fun things to do on south island New Zealand.
Queenstown is one of the best places in New Zealand. Though a bit touristic, there are places you can find all to yourself!
43-Meter Kawarau Bridge Bungy Jump I did
The world’s third-highest Bungy Jump
What about the Bungy Jump from Skyline Queenstown?
12,000-Foot Tandem Skydive Above Southern Lakes
Queenstown Skyline Gondola and Luge Rides
Wild Horse Riding Through Dart Valley
Queenstown Cruise & Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ
Skyline Gondola ticket for that amazing viewpoint
4. Fiordland National Park
Another new Zealand south island attractions include Fiordland National Park. Travelers will never get tired of the breathtaking scenery – new vistas around every corner – and the natural beauty of this glacially scarred landscape. I had been told it was one of the world’s best landscapes and it certainly lived up to it.
On the way, there were plentiful postcard-perfect snow-capped mountains, jaw-dropping beautiful valleys, cascading waterfalls flowing down from massive heights over sheer rock-faced mountains, dense forest, and stunning lakes and rivers. No doubt this national park is one of the best places in New Zealand.
Of course, Milford Sound is the ultimate destination but there are plenty of other sights to see including the Mirror Lakes, the Chasm, and many waterfalls. Watch for the inquisitive Kiwi birds as well. Tours will start at 5 am on the same day return from Queen towns or a self-organized drive around with a group of people is cheaper and flexible.
Milford Sound Coach Tour & Lunch Cruise from Queenstown
Milford Sound: Kayaking Tour
Milford Sound: Boutique Small-Boat Cruise
Fiordland National Park: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise
Discovering the fiord on an intimate small boat cruise.
Milford Sound Scenic Helicopter Flight with Glacier Landing
5. Stewart Island/ Rakiura National Park
Not many people know or skip Stewart Island but I reckon it is worth a visit. Stewart Island/Rakiura is the third-largest island of New Zealand. It lies 30 km south of the South Island which makes it the most southern of the three main populated New Zealand islands.
Despite being as close to Antarctica as you can get, its clear turquoise sea and white sand beaches make Stewart Island look more like a tropical paradise. You can have some pretty unique experiences on the island. For example: spotting some penguins on Oban Wharf on evenings, a kiwi bird in the wild, walk to a wide selection of white-sand bays such as Dead Man Bay and Horseshoe Bay, Great White shark cage diving (only available in summer) or seeing the Southern Lights- unforgettable south island scenery.
The main (and only) town of Oban offers all the essentials like backpacker accommodation and a convenience store (which isn’t horrifically expensive). The most common and cheapest way to get here is by ferry from Bluff . The journey takes approximately one hour. It departs from both Stewart Island and Bluff three times a day.
Keep in mind, that departure times change depending on the season. You could also rent a scooter, mountain bike or car to see as much of the island as possible during short visits or take a quick boat ride over to Ulva Island.
Stewart Island: Village and Bays Tour
2.5-Hour Cruise and Ulva Island Guided Walk
Ferry Service Between Bluff & Stewart Island
6. Mount Aspiring National Park
Do you like epic walking and hiking tracks or a beautiful lake with (that Wanaka) tree? You can find it all at Mount Aspiring National Park. It is the highest outside of the Aoraki Mt Cook region. Now we know why the mountain is “aspiring” to be the highest mountain!
There are many experiences to be had here like seeing the glacier features like Rob Roy Glacier and the Blue Pools, winding jetboat ride into the National Park, canyoning in the Routeburn valley, or taking a scenic flight to see Mt Aspiring from above or skydiving.
I cannot decide which is my favorite National Park in New Zealand, but it might be this one. Mount Aspiring is situated at the southern end of the alps. The snow-capped mountains change in appearance with changes in the light and the sunshine. You could spend your day just watching the changing vista and not be bored.
If you don’t want to hike I recommend the drive and you can still see the glacier from the parking lot. Mount Aspiring is just so wild and there is so much to explore! You could spend a lifetime and so much would remain untouched. Rugged beauty to the max making it one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand.
Wanaka: Jet Boat & Wilderness Walk
Mt Aspiring Full-Day Canyoning Adventure from Queenstown
The Devil’s Punchbowl Trail is so beautiful and has a great sight, but there are about 300 steps up and down! You are surrounded by beautiful native flora & stunning views over Arthurs Pass. Well worth doing. However, keep in mind it’s not a loop track, you have to return to the same route. It also connects to other tracks. The views are awesome and definitely Instagram-worthy.
7. Arthur’s Pass National Park
What better way to start the trip than going through the scenic Arthur’s Pass National Park via Castle Hill. It was established in 1929, becoming the first national park in the South Island and the third in New Zealand. In Arthur’s Pass, there are several different walking trails to choose, some are longer and some are shorter. You can get information and maps from Arthur’s pass visitor Centre before you go.
Arthur’s Pass with TranzAlpine Train
From Christchurch: Day Trip to Arthur’s Pass
8. Punakaiki Pancake Rocks
This would be an easy stop on the side of the road and worth it. Easy track walk, very short and good to see the sights and things. The large part is wheelchair friendly as well. The track has a number of lookout points showcasing all the features.
The only slight disappointment was blowholes not blowing due to calm seas. If you are passing by Punakaiki, Paparoa National Park, it is a good idea to stop and see the Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. There is a toilet across the street and 30 minutes of free wifi!
From Greymouth: Punakaiki Blowholes & Pancake Rocks Tour
Full-Day Tour: View the incredible Pancake Rocks and Blow Holes formations
This hidden gem is definitely worthy of the 15-minute gravel drive although there is $5 per car for entry and is located 10km from the main road. Once you are at the carpark, it’s a short walk heads up to the cliffs. Sharp jagged clay veins with a pale, peachy palette. Make sure you take hiking boots, the terrain is very loose and rocky in places. Truly one of a kind and definitely had to include in this most beautiful places in New Zealand south island post.
10. Marlborough Sounds
Marlborough Sounds are one of the stunning places to visit in New Zealand south island. It is the nature-lover’s paradise! You can enjoy many activities here. Such as Sailing, hiking, dolphin watching, fishing, camping, or just relaxing. There is something for everyone!
It is hard to describe the peace, beauty, and tranquillity of the Marlborough Sounds. Whether you are in a small boat, cruising at your own pace and whim, or on an Interislander or Bluebridge ferry, you cannot fail to be amazed and enthralled at the variety of constantly-changing scenery which surrounds you on all sides, and the limitless possibility of visits which can be made from your boat, time permitting.
Don’t forget the beautiful Queen Charlotte walkway that runs along its length. As the Interislander ferry comes into the sounds the views are amazing. The sounds offer such a striking landscape that is so picturesque. It really is serene and easy to see why it is one of the new Zealand south islands must-sees.
There are many accommodation and boating options to make sure you can get the most out of your visit. It is so beautiful, everywhere you look captivates the senses and provides you with a true appreciation of nature.
Marlborough Sounds and Ship Cove Cruise from Picton
Picton Dolphin Watching & Island Wildlife Sanctuary Cruise
Marlborough Sounds: Full-Day Guided Kayak Tour with Lunch
May is one of the best months of the year to go hiking in Wanaka – the Goldilocks Zone, not too hot and not too cold.
The temperatures are moderate compared to summer. The wind is almost still (almost completely windless) and you just have a nice gentle cool breeze. New Zealand is famous for windy weather and NZ mountains are notorious for their ferocious winds. The affluent jet set like to take their holidays in Wanaka in May.
If you are a blogger/Instagrammer/photographer, the most colorful time of year, Autumn (fall) runs between March and May. Autumn is magical in places like Queenstown, Wanaka, and Arrowtown – with trees in various hues of gold, orange, and red, and beautiful blue-sky days. While Autumn is known for being a little cooler, locals also know it often means very settled weather.
One of the most photographed iconic mountain walks in New Zealand is Roy’s Peak. The mountain is steep, ascending 1200 meters over eight kilometers, with unbroken views over Lake Wanaka from the slopes, and summit views to Tititea/Mt Aspiring. Only 10 minutes by vehicle from Wanaka on a sealed road, this makes it relatively easy to get to.
The track zigzags up the side of Mount Roy. It is a 6-hour return walk or 16 km in distance.
Autumn is probably the best time to do the Roys Peak Track. The temperatures are not as extreme, and the crowds have thinned out. The car park was barely 20 percent full.
It is a recently updated walk which is now a loop. Beautiful spot to visit and walk around. Even on a cloudy day, the water is so blue! Plenty of spaces to park. Recommend walking from the end of the track to the front to leave you with the main views and bridges at the end of your walk! The highlight of the walks is different suspension bridges and the water. You can actually take a dip in the gorge but just be careful as the currents are strong.
Twelve Mile Delta was a location for Lord of the Rings’ Ithilien Camp. It is popular with locals and is huge with many spots for tents and campervans alike and conveniently close to Queenstown. You can even swim but the water is cold! No sinks or treated water but there are taps with boil-only water. Good spot for stunning views, gold panning, and excellent fishing in the mornings.
14. Christchurch
After my North Island trip, it was time to solo travel again. However, before starting my South Island trip, I wanted a couple days to relax and rest in Christchurch. Though still recovering from the earthquake of 2011, Christchurch city was full of arts and optimism. I was impressed with the city art and soaked the creative vibe as I grabbed my Flat while and walked around.
It also gave me some time to plan my south island trip. You can fly from Christchurch to Queenstown but I decided to do a road trip. And for the accommodation, I did Airbnb.
Christchurch Adventure Park Zipline Experience
Christchurch Hop-On Hop-Off Tour by Vintage Tram
Ko Tāne Maori Experience + Optional Hangi Dinner & Kiwi Tour
Christchurch Tramway Restaurant 4 Course Dinner Tour
Christchurch Gondola Ride
Willowbank Wildlife Reserve Day Entry Ticket
From Christchurch: Full-Day Lord of the Rings Tour to Edoras
Mt Cook, Tasman Glacier & Alpine Centre Day Trip
Christchurch International Antarctic Center Entry Tickets
Note: I didn’t have enough time but the following places also come highly recommended. Franz Josef glacier fox glacier and Tasman national park. If you didn’t know New Zealand also has three Unesco World Heritage sites. Such as Te Wahipounamu, Tongariro National Park, and the Subantarctic Islands.
- if you know any other most beautiful places in new zealand south island Auckland solo travel tips
- 99% of readers found must see on the east coast of Australia helpful.
- Check out how you can explore Adelaide South Australia the best way.
- Heading to iconic Alice Springs for that unique Uluru trip ?
- Here I share must do in Darwin , Australia.
- Solo travel guide to Brisbane (Insta worthy places included!) Read Backpacking in melboure if you’re planning to visit
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- Going to Vietnam after Australia? Check out the 7 days Hanoi travel guide.
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- ← Top 5 must do in Darwin, Northern Territory of Australia
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50 thoughts on “ 14 most beautiful places in new zealand south island ”.
New Zealand looks gorgeous.
What stunning photos! Definitely a bucket list trip.
All the travel spots of New Zealand about which you have talked about is really amazing.. The pictures you have posted are giving prove about the picturesque beauty of those areas. ? Thanks for sharing.. People who are looking for spending their vacation in that Kiwi land is going to find this article much handy.
New Zealand is on our bucket list. Hope to visit and checkout these views in person some day soon.
I would love to get to New Zealand and explore its South Island. The scenery is so amazing and I love it that there are not many tourists around.
OMW what a beautiful unspoilt country. I would do my nut to do that bungee jump at Kawarau. I’ve done the Bloukrans Bridge in South Africa and it was awesome
this place looks like a dream! Loving all the purples! Im so envious of you right now!
I have always wanted to travel to New Zealand. I think your pictures are amazing and they really capture your experience. Christchurch looks/sounds like my cup of tea. Thanks for sharing.
New Zealand is such a heaven on this earth and a picture perfect place. Really enjoying your photos.
Bookmarked for a furture trip! Always wanted to go.
I would love to see the waterfall at Queenstown, but I’m not brave enough to bungee jump! You are one brave soul!
this looks as if taken from a movie! Definitely, a place to see but it is too far and expensive from Spain…
These pictures are stunning, it looks like a paradise. NZ is definitely on my bucket list
oh man New Zeland looks like one of the most beautiful places! Definitely has been on my bucket list for soooo long! Your photos are just exquisite! And that bungee jumping video, how awesome!!
I travelled the South Island back in the mid 1990’s. I can see that everything and nothing has changed.
I still fondly remember my adventures and the stunning vistas are forever painted in my memories.
You have captured it beautifully both with your words and images.
I look forward to returning to New Zealand one day with the Four Friends and I will be sure to have your top 10 list with us.
Keep travelling and posting, there is a big world full of adventure waiting for you.
These photos are stunning! I would love to visit to each place one day! 🙂
New Zealand Is really the perfect place to be. All my life I’ve been wanting to visit NZ. The views are stunning and you capture all your moments perfectly.
Our honeymoon was on the South Island and we visited many of these places!Such a beautiful island!
Looks like a wonderful trip. I would only skip the bungee jump 🙂
Wow, looks beyond amazing. I would love to be able to visit a place like this, some day. Until then, keep those photos coming!!
Another bucket list destination for me and my husband! I’m not sure which spot to visit first though.
Stewart island looks so beautiful and surreal..all the pictures are so gorgeous and are forcing me to plan my next travel soon!
You have shared really amazing pictures in this post. I will love to visit this place the coming month.
Queenstown’s falls is majestic! Good photography!
I would love to visit New Zealand someday and explore all of these beautiful places! They have so many areas that are untouched by civilization, which I absolutely love!
All of those places look absolutely stunning and would love to explore them sometime soon
The views is just amazing! I would like to see that waterfall in person!
I’ve always wanted to visit New Zealand but now even more so after seeing your amazing post, how gorgeous is each location and your pictures?! I don’t think there’s a single location I’d pass up here!
Okay, I knew New Zealand was a beautiful place, but I had no idea it was THIS gorgeous! WOW! And I LOVE your photographs – you totally capture the spirit of the countryside!
I’d love to visit New Zealand. It looks like such a naturally beautiful country.
It is one of my dreams to go to New Zealand. These photos look so gorgeous, makes me want to go even more.
this is so beautiful! I have always wanted to go to New Zealnad!
New Zealand is so beautiful, It is on my travel wish list, I didn’t know few of the places you mentioned here, they look and sound amazing. Lake Tepako is breathtakingly beautiful, with the view of mountains and water. Love all the pictures.
wow I always wondered what there was to do in new Zealand ever since I met a graduate student from new Zealand while I was an undergraduate at yale university. these places looks so beautiful, but I could never go bungee jumping lol it is way to scary for me.
I’ve wanted to go to NZ to visit Hobbiton, but I definitely need to add some of these places. They’re stunning!
Omg, all these places are simply fabulous! Norway is definitely on my must-see travel list! (Your second picture in this post is amazing!)
Was about to write New Zealand, but was thinking of Norway, haha! Sorry! Both on my travel list! I guess they have something in common, don’t they?
New Zealand looks lovely and your pictures are totally incredible and really have inspired me. I need to book some travel for next year x
I explored some parts of New Zealand and immensely enjoyed. Now explored other parts of this beautiful country through your post. Awesome pics.
I’d really love to visit New Zealand because of its beautiful and peaceful scenery of this place. I will definitely save this for my future references in case we travel here in New Zealand.
Wow, these are all beautiful pictures. I have New Zealand on my travel list, I hopefully will visit one or two of these beautiful places.
Each place in the list looks amazing. Never heard about few of them before. Want to visit New Zealand one day.
Beautiful places! I want to travel to New Zeland badly! And after your post even more. I wish flight was less expensive
These are some great place to visit this 2018. The beautiful scenery, views are so fulfilling and worth to visit. I will definitely add this on my bucket list.
Love New Zealand! I would love to travel there for holiday someday
Those photos are stunning! The scenery is so beautiful. I would love to visit here.
Like so many, New Zealand is on our list to visit. I just want to start booking now after reading your article and viewing your beautiful photos!
Everything looks so beautiful! New Zealand is on my list of places to visit before I die, and now you’ve inspired me to work harder and visit the place already!
I lived in NZ for 8 months and I did everything on this list! So you were spot on with this post! I love NZ so much I’m glad you enjoyed it too
Thanks for sharing this content, this content is valueable for me. Keep it up .
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10 Day South Island New Zealand Itinerary: 4 Different Ways
Julie Last updated: February 15, 2024 Itinerary , New Zealand Leave a Comment
With 10 days on the South Island of New Zealand, you have just enough time to visit several top spots. Queenstown, Wanaka, the Milford Sound, and seeing Aoraki / Mount Cook (New Zealand’s tallest mountain) all top the list, but you also have the option to add on the Southern Scenic Route, Akaroa, Abel Tasman, and the Marlborough wine region. In this guide, we list four different ways to plan your 10-day South Island New Zealand itinerary, depending on your interests.
About These Itineraries
The first two itineraries are done point-to-point ending in Picton on the Cook Strait. These make great options if you also have plans to visit the North Island of New Zealand on this same trip.
The third itinerary is done as a loop. It travels the Southern Scenic Route of the South Island, visiting off the beaten track spots in New Zealand. This is a good pick for those on their second or third trip to New Zealand, or if you prefer visiting these less touristy coastal sights and towns.
Finally, the fourth itinerary moves a bit slower and travels less distance, but you’ll have more time in some of our favorite places, such as Wanaka and Queenstown.
These itineraries can be done all year. The best time to go hiking is spring through fall (September through May) and the best time to go skiing is in the winter (June through August).
You will need to rent a car or campervan for each of these itineraries.
More New Zealand Itineraries
- New Zealand Itinerary: 3 Week North & South Island Road Trip
- One Week on the South Island of New Zealand: 4 Different Ways
- Two Weeks on the South Island of New Zealand: 3 Road Trip Routes
Table of Contents
Top Places to Go on the South Island
10 days on the South Island does not give you very much time, but you can visit several essential places. We have visited New Zealand twice, exploring the South Island on both of these trips, and with a quick visit to the South Island, here are the top places to visit.
Note: With 10 days, you can visit 4 to 5 of the places listed below. To visit all of them, extend your trip to 2 to 3 weeks.
Queenstown: The ‘Adventure Capital of the World,’ this town is home to a long list of thrilling experiences (bungy jumping, jet boat riding, and paragliding, just to name a few), plus a wonderfully long list of restaurants. Even on the fastest of itineraries, it’s worth spending at least 2 days in Queenstown.
Wanaka: Just an hour away from Queenstown, this lovely town has a spectacular setting on Lake Wanaka. Top experiences include hiking, wine tasting, climbing a waterfall, and dining with a view of Lake Wanaka.
Milford Sound: This is one of New Zealand’s top tourist attractions and often called one of the most beautiful places in the world. You can visit the Milford Sound on a day trip from Queenstown or on a more leisurely pace from Te Anau.
Aoraki / Mount Cook: This is the highest mountain in New Zealand. You can hike the trails at the base of the mountain at Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park or on a flightseeing tour from Queenstown, Mount Cook Village, or Franz Josef, mentioned next.
Franz Josef (Glacier Country): This area, which sits on the west coast of the South Island, is a land of lush rainforests, glacier capped mountains, and rugged coastlines. Take a flightseeing tour, land on a glacier, hike around Lake Matheson, go skydiving, and go hiking.
Southern Scenic Route: The Southern Scenic Route is a 600+ kilometer driving route that connects Dunedin, Invercargill, Te Anau, and Queenstown, New Zealand. It is one of New Zealand’s most scenic multi-day driving routes.
Marlborough Wine Region: The Marlborough wine region is the largest wine region in New Zealand. It is located on the north end of the South Island, not far from Picton.
Akaroa & Banks Peninsula: Banks Peninsula is a small, volcanic peninsula that sits on the east coast of the South Island. Akaroa is a small town that sits on Akaroa Harbour, the largest body of water on Banks Peninsula. Things to do include taking an eco-cruise to see Hector’s dolphins and penguins, hiking, scenic drives, and feeding alpacas.
Picton: If you have plans to also visit the North Island, you can fly between the two islands or cross the Cook Strait on the ferry. Picton is home to the ferry port on the South Island. From here, you cross the Cook Strait, ending the voyage in Wellington.
There are many other wonderful places to visit on the South Island, but with a limited amount of time, and if it is your first time in New Zealand, we think it is best to take your pick from the places listed above. But if you are curious about what else there is to do, take a look at our article Best Things to Do on the South Island of New Zealand.
- Itinerary #1: Queenstown, Aoraki / Mount Cook & Picton
- Itinerary #2: Queenstown, Glacier Country & Picton
- Itinerary #3: Queenstown & the Southern Scenic Route
- Itinerary #4: Christchurch to Queenstown
10 Day South Island New Zealand Itinerary #1
Queenstown, Aoraki / Mount Cook & Picton
HIGHLIGHTS: Queenstown, Milford Sound, Wanaka, Aoraki / Mount Cook, Christchurch, Kaikoura, Abel Tasman or the Marlborough wine region
This itinerary travels point-to-point from Queenstown to Blenheim and Picton. On this itinerary, you will visit a few of the must-see spots on the South Island, ending on the northern part of the South Island, which sets you up to take the ferry across the Cook Strait on the following day. You can also do this itinerary in the opposite order, if you will be starting your trip on the North Island.
Day 1: Arrive in Queenstown, drive to Te Anau Day 2: Milford Sound Day 3: Queenstown Day 4: Queenstown Day 5: Queenstown Day 6: Wanaka Day 7: Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park Day 8: Drive to Christchurch Day 9: Drive to Blenheim or Nelson Day 10: Abel Tasman National Park or Marlborough wine region
Day 1: Arrive in Queenstown, drive to Te Anau
It may seem odd to arrive in Queenstown and immediately leave it for another destination. This is what we did on our first trip to New Zealand and it actually works very well. By immediately driving to Te Anau, you set yourself up to follow it with several action-packed days in Queenstown.
Plus, the drive between Queenstown and Te Anau is gorgeous.
There are two main ways to visit the Milford Sound: from Te Anau (much closer) or as a day trip from Queenstown (a super long day trip with over 8 hours in a car, bus, or van). It is a much better experience to visit the Milford Sound from Te Anau and with 10 days on the South Island, you have plenty of time to do it this way.
At the Queenstown airport, pick up your rental car and then it is a 165 km, 2-hour stunning drive to Te Anau. You’ll drive along beautiful Lake Wakatipu, past farms filled with sheep, and countless amazing views of this part of New Zealand. It’s a great introduction to the beauty of the South Island.
Devils Staircase, a winding road that runs along Lake Wakatipu, on the drive between Queenstown and Te Anau.
Once in Te Anau, check into your hotel. Take a stroll along the waterfront and drive up to Lions Lookout Point for a panoramic view over the town.
Tonight, sleep in Te Anau. Recommended hotels include Annies on Milford (we stayed here and it’s one of the highest rated properties in town), Fiordland Lakeview Motel and Apartments , and Bob & Maxine Backpackers. For dinner, we recommend Redcliff Restaurant & Bar.
Day 2: Milford Sound
Today is dedicated to visiting one of New Zealand’s most famous natural attractions, the Milford Sound. Since you are staying in Te Anau, you have plenty of time for the scenic drive to the Milford Sound, a longer Milford Sound cruise, and the option to add on the Key Summit hike.
For full details on how to plan your day, check out our Guide to the Milford Sound.
Milford Sound
Tonight, sleep in Te Anau. Have dinner at Ditto, Sandfly Café, or the MacKinnon Room.
Day 3: Queenstown
In the morning, drive to Queenstown (170 km, 2 hours). Spend the rest of the day in Queenstown.
Visiting Skyline Queenstown is a great thing to do on your first day here. The views are amazing and there’s lots to do to keep you busy, such as the Luge, mountain biking, hiking, bungy jumping, ziplining, and paragliding. If you are traveling with kids, you could easily spend all day here.
The view from Skyline Queenstown
In the evening, have dinner in town. You will sleep in Queenstown for three nights. For recommendations on where to stay and eat, check out our article Best Things to Do in Queenstown.
Day 4 & 5: Queenstown
Spend the next two days in Queenstown. There are a lot of different ways to plan your time, depending on your interests. From thrilling activities like bungy jumping and jet boat riding, to more chill experiences such as wine tasting and visiting a natural hot pool, you have tons of options (see the full list in our Queenstown Bucket List ).
To help you plan your time, take a look at our Queenstown Itinerary, which lists multiple ways to plan your days, including great day trip options.
Shotover Jet
Day 6: Wanaka
In the morning, check out of your hotel and drive to Wanaka. There are two driving routes to choose from.
Via Crown Range Road: This drive is 70 km and takes an hour. On this drive, you will cross the Crown Range. At the highest point, make a pitstop and enjoy the views from the scenic overlooks. Then, descend to Cardrona, see the bra fence, and continue to Wanaka. This is the most scenic route but it is also the windiest.
Via State Highway 6: This drive is 110 km and takes an hour and a half. It goes through Cromwell and skips the switchbacks and curves of Crown Range Road. This route is not as scenic but it is a better option for those who have issues with motion sickness.
Spend the day in Wanaka. If you are a hiker, take your pick between Roys Peak Track and the Rocky Mountain Track to Diamond Lake. Those looking for even more adventure can do the Wildwire Via Ferrata and climb a waterfall. You can also go wine tasting, see #ThatWanakaTree, go for a cruise on Lake Wanaka, and watch a movie in Cinema Paradiso.
Roys Peak Track
For dinner, we recommend Bistro Gentil (wine bar and French food with views of Lake Wanaka) or Big Fig (healthy Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine).
Tonight, sleep in Wanaka. We recommend Wanaka Homestead Lodge & Cottages , Wanaka Heights Motel , and Wanaka Top 10 Holiday Park.
Day 7: Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
In the morning, check out of your hotel and drive north to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park (205 km, 2.5 hours). The drive along Lake Pukaki is one of the most beautiful and iconic scenic drives on the South Island of New Zealand.
Lake Pukaki and Aoraki / Mount Cook
Spend the afternoon hiking the trails in the national park. The Hooker Valley Track is the most famous and gives you awesome views of New Zealand’s tallest mountain. You can also go flightseeing, stargazing, or hike the other shorter trails in the valley.
Sleep in Mount Cook Village.
Day 8: Drive to Christchurch
Again, it’s time to move on. Check out of your hotel and drive to Christchurch (330 km, 4 hours). On this drive, you’ll repeat the scenic drive along Lake Pukaki. Not long after, you’ll reach Lake Tekapo. This is a great spot to get out of your car, stretch your legs, and capture this stunning blue lake on your camera. The Church of the Good Shepherd is a popular photography spot here. You can also grab a snack or cup of coffee before resuming the drive.
Lake Tekapo
Christchurch is the largest city on the South Island of New Zealand. A series of devastating earthquakes rattled the city in 2010 and 2011, and these events have left their mark on the city.
This city makes a good stopover point as you head north towards Picton. Top experiences here include visiting Quake City (a museum about the earthquakes), Punting on the Avon, and visiting the museums in town.
Tonight, sleep in Christchurch.
Day 9: Drive to Blenheim or Nelson
Today is the last big driving day of this itinerary. You have an option on where to end the day, depending on what you choose to do tomorrow.
On the day 10 of this itinerary, you can either spend the day hiking and kayaking in Abel Tasman National Park or wine tasting in Marlborough. If you prefer to visit Abel Tasman, sleep in Nelson or Motueka. If you prefer to go wine tasting, stay in Blenheim.
The driving routes from Christchurch to Blenheim is different than the driving route from Christchurch to Nelson and Motueka. Here is an overview.
Christchurch to Abel Tasman National Park
Christchurch to Motueka: 420 km, 5.25 hours Christchurch to Nelson: 410 km, 5 hours
If you choose to visit Abel Tasman, from Christchurch you will drive through the mountainous interior of the South Island.
You have the option to spend the morning in Christchurch before starting this drive, doing it in the afternoon, or immediately hitting the road and spending the afternoon in Nelson and Motueka. Sleep in Nelson or Motueka (Motueka is slightly closer to Abel Tasman National Park).
Christchurch to Blenheim
Christchurch to Blenheim: 310 km, 4 hours
If you choose to visit the Marlborough wine region, you will drive State Highway 1 along the east coast through Kaikoura, giving you the option to take a cruise to see and swim with dolphins.
Kaikoura Beach
Three species of dolphins are found in the water near Kaikoura, including dusky dolphins, Hector’s dolphins, and common dolphins. Orca can also make an appearance from September to April.
Dolphin Encounter runs tours all year. You can either simply view the dolphins or, for about double the price, swim with dolphins.
Tonight, sleep in Blenheim. We recommend 14th Lane Urban Hotel and Ellena Court Motel (we have stayed in both of these and had great experiences at both of them). For dinner in Blenheim, we recommend Gramado’s , a Brazilian restaurant that gets rave reviews (try the Brazilian cheese bread and I loved the Feijoada, a Brazilian black bean stew).
Day 10: Abel Tasman National Park or Marlborough Wine Region
Abel Tasman National Park
Spend the day in Abel Tasman National Park. A great way to spend the day here is to do a cruise and hike combo. Learn more in our article How to Spend One Day in Abel Tasman National Park.
Tonight, sleep in Motueka (a 180 km, 2.5-hour drive to Picton tomorrow) or sleep in Havelock, Blenheim, or Picton to have a shorter drive to the ferry port in Picton the following day.
Marlborough Wine Region
The Marlborough wine region is the largest wine region in New Zealand. This region produces some of the best Sauvignon Blanc in the world, along with Riesling, Gewürtztraminer, Chardonnay, and Pinot Gris.
For information on how to plan your day, and to get recommended wineries, read our Guide to the Marlborough Wine Region.
Tonight, sleep in Blenheim.
Doing this Itinerary in the Opposite Direction
If you need to do this itinerary in the opposite direction:
Day 1: Abel Tasman or Marlborough wine region Day 2: Drive to Christchurch Day 3: Drive to Aoraki / Mount Cook Day 4: Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park in the morning, drive to Wanaka in the evening Day 5: Wanaka Day 6: Drive from Wanaka to Te Anau Day 7: Milford Sound Day 8: Drive to Queenstown in the morning Day 9: Queenstown Day 10: Queenstown
10 Day South Island New Zealand Itinerary #2
Queenstown, Glacier Country & Picton
HIGHLIGHTS: Queenstown, Milford Sound, Wanaka, Franz Josef/Glacier Country, Hoktika Gorge, Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, Abel Tasman National Park, Marlborough Wine Region
This itinerary is similar to the one above, in that it starts in Queenstown and ends on the north end of the South Island. However, you take a different route to get there. Instead of visiting Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park and driving east through Christchurch, you drive along the scenic western coast of the South Island and visit Glacier Country.
From Glacier Country, continue the scenic drive along the west coast, ending the trip with time in both Abel Tasman National Park and the Marlborough wine region.
Day 1: Queenstown Day 2: Queenstown Day 3: Milford Sound day trip Day 4: Queenstown, drive to Wanaka Day 5: Wanaka Day 6: Drive to Franz Josef/Glacier Country Day 7: Franz Josef/Glacier Country Day 8: Drive to Abel Tasman National Park Day 9: Abel Tasman National Park Day 10: Marlborough wine region
The Southern Alps separates Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park from the towns of Franz Josef and Fox Glacier (an area referred to as Glacier Country). On a map, they sit side by side. However, it is a 480 km, 6-hour drive between them. With 10 days in New Zealand, it’s not worth visiting both of them. Which is better? It really depends on what you want to do and how else you plan to spend your time on the South Island. Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park is more popular. You get the scenic drive along Lake Pukaki and can easily add on Lake Tekapo. It’s also the best place to get the iconic view of Aoraki / Mount Cook. Franz Josef and Glacier Country is less popular. The main thing to do here is to take a flightseeing tour with a glacier landing, getting a bird’s eye view of Aoraki / Mount Cook and Mount Tasman (you can do that from Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park as well), hiking to glaciers, and seeing the rainforest along the west coast. On the drive north, you also get to see Hoktika Gorge and the Pancake Rocks. Both are phenomenal experiences. However, I don’t think it’s worth driving to Franz Josef if you do not plan to do a flightseeing tour, since that is one of main things to do here.
Days 1 & 2: Queenstown
Plan your arrival for the first half of the day on day 1. Spend the first two days of this itinerary jet boat riding, bungy jumping, hiking, riding the Luge, and exploring Queenstown and its surrounds. For a list of things to do, as well as hotel and restaurant recommendations, take a look at our Queenstown Bucket List.
You will sleep in Queenstown for 3 nights.
Dining at Nest Kitchen and Bar in Queenstown
Day 3: Milford Sound Day Trip
The Milford Sound is a must-visit on a trip to the South Island. This experience usually combines a scenic drive from Te Anau to the Milford Sound and then a 1 to 3 hour cruise on the Milford Sound.
On this itinerary, you will day trip to the Milford Sound from Queenstown. It’s a long day but it gives you more free time later this week for Wanaka and Glacier Country.
There are several ways to day trip to the Milford Sound.
If you have a car, you can drive to the Milford Sound to Te Anau and continue on to the Milford Sound. Book a Milford Sound cruise midday and return to Queenstown in the evening. It’s about 4 hours of driving one way (8 hours round trip). This day trip lasts about 12 hours.
If you don’t have a car, or if you just prefer to let someone else handle the 8 hours of driving, book a tour. This tour is one of the highest rated from Queenstown. Or take a premium small group tour from Queenstown. These day trips last about 12 hours.
If the idea of spending 8 hours in a car, bus, or van sounds like torture, you have the option to take a flightseeing tour to the Milford Sound followed by a cruise. You miss the scenic drive from Te Anau to the Milford Sound, but you get to see the Southern Alps and the Milford Sound from the sky, so it is an incredible experience. It’s also the priciest, but it only takes a half a day, so you’ll also have more time in Queenstown.
Day 4: Queenstown, Drive to Wanaka
Spend the morning and midday in Queenstown. You also have the option to visit Arrowtown or the wineries near Cromwell, as these are located along the drive to Wanaka.
Te Kano Estate near Cromwell
In the afternoon, drive to Wanaka via Crown Range Road (70 km, one hour, and Arrowtown is worth the quick detour along this drive) or through Cromwell (110 km, 1.5 hours, the Cromwell wineries are good add-ons to this drive).
Have dinner in Wanaka. You will spend two nights in Wanaka.
Day 5: Wanaka
The Rocky Mountain Track
Day 6: Drive to Franz Josef/Glacier Country
From Wanaka, it takes 4 hours to drive the 290 km to Franz Josef. Along the way, there are a few places to pause, enjoy the view, and even do a short hike.
From Wanaka, head north on State Highway 6. About 30 minutes into the drive you’ll reach The Neck, a narrow strip of land that sits between Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea. There are two scenic viewpoints here: Lake Hawea Lookout and Lake Wanaka Lookout.
Thirty minutes (35 km) north of The Neck is the Blue Pools Track. This 3 km out-and-back hike takes 30 minutes to an hour and takes you to viewpoints of vibrantly blue pools on the Makarora River.
Continue the scenic drive to Franz Josef. Once in Franz Josef, check into your hotel. If you still have time and energy, you can go on a short hike. For a full list of things to do and where to stay, take a look at our Guide to Glacier Country.
Day 7: Franz Josef/Glacier Country
Spend the day in Glacier Country. The best thing to do here is to take a flightseeing tour, where you get a bird’s eye view of Aoraki / Mount Cook and Mount Tasman. You can add on glacier landings and even go heli-hiking.
More things to do in Glacier Country include the scenic walk around Lake Matheson, hiking to viewpoints of the glaciers, seeing the rarest kiwi at the West Coast Wildlife Centre, and relaxing in the hot pools.
Tonight, sleep in Glacier Country.
On a helicopter tour with snow landing from Franz Josef
Lake Matheson
Day 8: Drive to Abel Tasman National Park
Today, drive to Motueka. This small town is a great place to stay to explore Abel Tasman National Park. To get here, it is a 6-hour drive (465 km) without stops. Like the drive on day 4, today is another scenic drive.
Hoktika Gorge is a short detour off of State Highway 6. You’ll reach this point about 2 hours into the drive from Franz Josef. This aquamarine gorge is a fantastic hiking and swimming spot on the South Island. A 2 km walking trail loops around the gorge, crossing several suspension bridges along the way. It takes about 45 minutes to do the walk, longer if you pause for a swim.
Hoktika Gorge
About an hour and a half drive north of Hoktika Gorge are the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes. On this small peninsula sits stacks of limestone rocks, that with a little imagination, looks like stacks of pancakes. This view of the rocks and the coastline is one of our favorite coastal views on the South Island of New Zealand. To see the Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, it is a 1.1 km walking loop that takes about 20 minutes. It is free to visit.
Punakaiki Pancake Rocks
Continue the drive to Motueka and check into your hotel. We stayed at the Terraced Chalets and had a wonderful experience but the Abbey Court Motel and the Avalon Manor Motel also get great reviews.
Day 9: Abel Tasman National Park
In the late afternoon, drive to Blenheim (175 km, 2.5 hours), have dinner, and check into your hotel.
Day 10: Marlborough wine region
Spend the day wine tasting in New Zealand’s largest wine region. For recommended wineries and tips on how to plan your day, read our Guide to the Marlborough Wine Region.
Day 1: Marlborough wine region Day 2: Abel Tasman National Park Day 3: Drive to Franz Josef Day 4: Franz Josef / Glacier Country Day 5: Drive to Wanaka Day 6: Wanaka Day 7: Drive to Queenstown in the morning, afternoon in Queenstown Day 8: Queenstown Day 9: Milford Sound day trip Day 10: Queenstown
10 Day South Island New Zealand Itinerary #3
Queenstown & the Southern Scenic Route
HIGHLIGHTS: Queenstown, Wanaka, Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, Dunedin, Otago Peninsula, Southern Scenic Route, Cathedral Caves, Nugget Point Lighthouse, Bluff, Invercargill, Milford Sound, Te Anau
This itinerary is done as a loop, starting and ending in Queenstown. Rather than traveling north, on this itinerary, you travel to the southernmost part of the South Island along the Southern Scenic Route.
This itinerary is a good option for those who want to visit a few of the South Island’s most popular destinations (such as Queenstown, Wanaka, and Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park) but also go off the beaten path, exploring gorgeous coastal sites and quaint towns.
Since this starts and ends in Queenstown, if you also have plans to visit the North Island, you can fly there from Queenstown or add on two to three days to drive to Picton.
Day 1: Queenstown to Wanaka Day 2: Wanaka Day 3: Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park Day 4: Drive to Dunedin Day 5: Dunedin & the Otago Peninsula Day 6: Invercargill Day 7: Drive to Te Anau Day 8: Milford Sound Day 9: Queenstown Day 10: Queenstown
Day 1: Queenstown to Wanaka
Arrive in Queenstown, ideally in the first half of the day, pick up your rental car, and drive to Wanaka. Spend the rest of the day in Wanaka, get settled into your hotel, and have dinner. You will spend two nights in Wanaka.
Day 2: Wanaka
Spend the day in Wanaka. Hikers can choose between the Roys Peak Track and the Rocky Mountain Track to Diamond Lake. You can also go wine tasting, climb a via ferrata, rent bikes and cycle around Lake Wanaka, see #ThatWanakaTree, go for a cruise on Lake Wanaka, visit a lavender farm, and watch a movie in Cinema Paradiso.
#ThatWanakaTree
Day 3: Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
In the morning, check out of your hotel and drive north to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park (205 km, 2.5 hours). Enjoy the scenic drive along Lake Pukaki. Spend the day hiking in the national park. You can also go flightseeing and stargazing.
Tonight, sleep in Mount Cook Village.
Day 4: Drive to Dunedin
Today, drive to Dunedin. If you wake up early, you can fit it a short hike in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park before you go.
There are several routes to Dunedin. I recommend first driving to Lake Tekapo, one of New Zealand’s most beautiful lakes. It takes about an hour to drive here from Mount Cook Village. Get out, stretch your legs, and capture the lake’s brilliantly blue color on your camera or smartphone. It’s worth the extra drive.
Continue the drive along State Highway 8 through Burke’s Pass and out to the east coast. Once you hit State Highway 1 in Pareora, you’ll head south to Dunedin.
Along this drive, another worthwhile detour is the Moeraki Boulders. These boulders are a popular photography spot on the South Island. The Moeraki Boulders are located on Koekohe Beach (Moeraki Boulders Beach on Google Maps). Park at the Moeraki Boulders Café and it is a short walk out to the beach. At low tide, it is easy to walk right up to and photograph the boulders. At high tide, the bottoms will be covered with water. Our visit was near low tide.
Moeraki Boulders
Continue the drive to Dunedin. Check into your hotel and have dinner. You will spend two nights in Dunedin. For hotel and restaurant recommendations, take a look at our Guide to Dunedin (coming soon).
Day 5: Dunedin & the Otago Peninsula
Dunedin is the second largest city on the South Island of New Zealand. Sitting next to Dunedin is the Otago Peninsula, a small peninsula filled with scenic overlooks, deserted beaches, and several places to see little blue penguins and yellow eyed penguins.
Otago Peninsula
Spend the morning visiting the sites in Dunedin and the afternoon on the Otago Peninsula, where you can tour a castle and go on eco tours to see yellow eyed penguins and little blue penguins.
For more information, read our Guide to Dunedin & the Otago Peninsula (coming soon).
Day 6: Drive to Invercargill
Today is your first day on the Southern Scenic Route. The Southern Scenic Route is a 600+ kilometer driving route that connects Dunedin to Queenstown. Most of this drive is along the coast, with options to add on short hikes and waterfalls.
Today you will drive 240 km of this route. Without stops, it takes just over 3 hours of driving. With detours, this will take a full day.
We have a detailed guide to the Southern Scenic Route which I recommend referring to. Here is a brief overview on the sites to visit between Dunedin and Invercargill.
Tunnel Beach: Just a short drive south of Dunedin, this picturesque beach is home to dramatic cliffs and a sea cave. To get to the beach, it is a steep, downhill, 0.8 km (0.5 mile) walk to the beach. Once at the beach, you can descend farther through the tunnel for a different view of the coastline. Then, repeat the walk, uphill this time, to get back to your car.
Tunnel Beach
Nugget Point Lighthouse: This lighthouse is one of the most picturesque places to visit on the Southern Scenic Route. From the car park, it is a 0.8 km/0.5 mile walk (about 15 minutes) to get to the lighthouse.
Nugget Point Lighthouse
Purakaunui Falls: Purakaunui Falls is a beautiful, multi-tiered waterfall. To get here, you’ll have to do a little bit of hiking. It takes 10 minutes to walk to the waterfall and this entire hike is through a dense forest. The total distance for this walk is 0.6 km.0.4 miles round trip with 30 meters/100 feet of total ascent.
Parakaunui Falls
Florence Hill Overlook: For a sweeping view of Tautuku Beach, it’s worth the quick stop at Florence Hill Lookout.
Cathedral Caves: These caves can only be visited at low tide, since they are located on a beach, but they are one of the most interesting places to visit on the Southern Scenic Route. Get the full details here.
Curio Bay: Visit this spot for scenic views along the coastline.
Slope Point: Slope Point is the southernmost point of the South Island of New Zealand. It is a 1.8 km (1.1 mile) out-and-back walk to the point, with 100 meters (325 feet) of total ascent. Plan on spending about 30 to 45 minutes here, which gives you enough time to do the walk and take photos.
End the day in Invercargill. Have dinner and get checked into your hotel. We recommend staying at The Lodges at Transport World.
Day 7: Drive to Te Anau
Today’s drive is 190 km and will take just over two hours, without stops. However, we have a few detours and scenic places to visit along the drive.
Before leaving Invercargill, you have the option to make the detour to Bluff, for scenic views over the town and a view of nearby Stewart Island.
Then, on the drive to Te Anau, visit Cosy Nook (a quiet, scenic, secluded spot), Gemstone Beach, and McCracken’s Rest.
McCracken’s Rest
As you enter Te Anau, make the quick stop at the Lions Lookout Point for panoramic views of the town.
Spend the afternoon in Te Anau. You have the option to visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves today. Have dinner and check into your hotel. You will spend two nights in Te Anau.
Day 8: Milford Sound
Today, spend the day visiting the Milford Sound with the option to add on the Key Summit Hike. Learn more in our Guide to the Milford Sound.
Key Summit Trail
Days 9 & 10: Queenstown
On the morning of day 9, drive to Queenstown (completing the Southern Scenic Route) and spend the rest of your time in Queenstown. Refer to our Queenstown Itinerary for suggestions on how to plan your time.
10 Day South Island New Zealand Itinerary #4
Christchurch to Queenstown
HIGHLIGHTS: Christchurch, Akaroa and Banks Peninsula, Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, Wanaka, Te Anau, Milford Sound, Queenstown
This itinerary covers less real estate on the South Island, but the advantage is that you spend less time in a car and have a little bit more time to relax. This itinerary is a good option for those who still want to see a few highlights of the South Island, have a nice amount of time in Queenstown, without doing a ton of driving.
There are international airports in both Christchurch and Queenstown, so getting here and moving on to your next destination is easy to do.
Day 1: Christchurch & Banks Peninsula Day 2: Akaroa & Banks Peninsula Day 3: Drive to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park Day 4: Aoraki Mount Cook National Park Day 5: Wanaka Day 6: Drive to Te Anau Day 7: Milford Sound Day 8: Queenstown Day 9: Queenstown Day 10: Queenstown
Day 1: Christchurch & Banks Peninsula
Arrive in Christchurch ideally in the morning. Pick up your rental car and spend the mid portion of the day in Christchurch. There are a lot of ways to fill your time in Christchurch . You can go Punting on the Avon, visit the International Antarctic Centre, learn about the earthquakes that rattled Christchurch at Quake City, or ride the gondola for panoramic views over Christchurch and the Banks Peninsula.
In the late afternoon, drive to Akaroa (80 km, 1.5 hours). Check into your hotel and have dinner. For hotel and restaurant recommendations, and more information on how to spend your time, visit our Guide to Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula.
Day 2: Akaroa & Banks Peninsula
Banks Peninsula is a small, volcanic peninsula located on the east coast of the South Island of New Zealand. Sitting in the center of this mountainous landscape is Akaroa Harbour and the small town of Akaroa.
Akaroa Harbour
photo credit: Shamarra Alpacas
Spend the day on the Banks Peninsula. Take a wildlife cruise to see Hector’s dolphins (the smallest dolphins in the world), go on a scenic drive on Summit Road and/or to Misty Peaks Reserve, and meet the Shamarra Alpacas.
Tonight, sleep in Akaroa.
Day 3: Drive to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
Today is the longest driving day of this itinerary. To get to Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, it is a 380 km drive that takes just under 5 hours.
About an hour before you reach the national park, you will arrive at Lake Tekapo. This is a great place to grab a bite to eat and go for a lovely stroll along Lake Tekapo. If you are doing well on time, you can also add on the quick detour up to the Mount John Observatory for panoramic views over Lake Tekapo (well worth it when the weather is good, this adds on about 20 km and 45 minutes, which includes time for photos).
Church of the Good Sheperd at Lake Tekapo
Continue the drive to Mount Cook Village. Enjoy those spectacular views of Aoraki / Mount Cook as you wind along Lake Pukaki.
Check into your hotel and have dinner.
Day 4: Aoraki Mount Cook National Park
Spend the day hiking the trails in Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park, with the option to add on a flightseeing tour.
In the late afternoon, drive to Wanaka (205 km, 2.5 hours), check into your hotel, and have dinner. You will spend two nights in Wanaka.
Hooker Valley Track, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park
On this itinerary, you have one full day in Wanaka. In the morning, we recommend going for a hike, and there are a lot to choose from, from short, quick hikes to challenging day hikes. You also have the option to do the Wildwire Via Ferrata and climb a waterfall.
In the afternoon, go wine tasting, visit the lavender farm, go to the movies at Cinema Paradiso, or go for a cruise on Lake Wanaka. For the full list, read our Guide to Wanaka.
Day 6: Drive to Te Anau
Today, you have two options. Both involve driving to Te Anau (230 km, 3 hours).
In the morning, drive to Te Anau and spend the afternoon touring the Te Anau Glowworm Caves. Or, spend the morning in Wanaka and in the afternoon drive to Te Anau.
You will spend two nights in Te Anau.
Day 7: Milford Sound
Today, visit the Milford Sound with the option to add on the Key Summit Hike. We cover these in detail in our Guide to the Milford Sound.
Days 8, 9 & 10: Queenstown
On the morning of day 8, drive to Queenstown and spend the rest of your time in Queenstown. For ideas on how to plan your time, take a look at our Queenstown Itinerary.
More Information for Your Trip to New Zealand
If you are having a tough time deciding which itinerary is right for you, let us know in the comment section below . Just tell us a little bit about your interests (if you are a hiker, a foodie, a family, etc.) and what time of year you plan to visit New Zealand, and we can help you pick the best option. Also, if you want to know how to modify and of these itineraries, we can help you do that, too.
NEW ZEALAND ROAD TRIP (NORTH & SOUTH ISLAND): With 3 weeks in New Zealand , visit the highlights on a road trip to the North Island and South Island. If you have less time, you can shorten this itinerary by spending 2 weeks on the South Island.
SOUTH ISLAND ITINERARIES: Whether you have one week or three on the South Island of New Zealand, p lan your visit with our one week itinerary and 2 week itinerary . Each itinerary lists multiple ways to plan your road trip, depending on your interests.
PLACES TO GO ON THE SOUTH ISLAND: Take a look out our South Island of New Zealand Bucket List for 40 memorable things to see and do on the South Island. For those with plans to visit the North Island, we also have a North Island Bucket List.
We have TONS more information about New Zealand in our New Zealand Travel Guide, including Auckland, Queenstown, Wanaka, Aoraki/Mount Cook, Franz Josef, Christchurch, Wellington, Taupō, and the Milford Sound.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need for the South Island of New Zealand?
At a bare minimum, plan on spending one week on the South Island. This gives you just enough time to spend a few days in Queenstown, a few days in Wanaka, and a day trip to the Milford Sound.
With more time, you can add on Franz Josef and Glacier Country, Christchurch, Banks Peninsula, the Marlborough Wine Region, and Abel Tasman National Park. Those with 10 days can also add in the Southern Scenic Route.
When are the best months to visit the South Island?
The South Island can be visited all year.
Summer (December through February) is generally the best time to be here, with warmer, drier weather. However, it is also the busiest time of year to be here.
In autumn (March through May), temperatures cool off, as do the crowds, but rain chances increase. Fall colors make an appearance.
In the winter (June, July, and August), many alpine trails close once the snow begins to fall. This is the best time to visit the South Island if you plan to go skiing.
And finally, in the spring (September through November), temperatures warm up and flowers begin to bloom. In late spring, rainfall goes down but crowds start to rise.
What are the best things to do on the South Island?
For first time visitors, Queenstown, the Milford Sound, Wanaka, and Aoraki / Mount Cook top the to do list. More great places to visit include Franz Josef and Glacier Country, Abel Tasman National Park, Akaroa and the Banks Peninsula, the Marlborough wine region, the Southern Scenic Route, and Christrchurch. For the full list, read our article Best Things to Do on the South Island of New Zealand.
If you have any questions about these 10-day South Island New Zealand itinerary options, let us know in the comment section below.
Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.
All rights reserved © Earth Trekkers. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, etc.), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited.
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15 Best Things to Do in New Zealand South Island
Posted on Last updated: January 13, 2024
Home » Destinations » New Zealand » 15 Best Things to Do in New Zealand South Island
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Planning a trip to New Zealand ? Keep scrolling to find out all the best things to do in New Zealand South Island for your next trip!
This list of the best things to do in new zealand south island was co-written by family travel expert marcie cheung and may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and purchase the item, i will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. all opinions remain my own..
Guest post by Bailey from My Queenstown Diary
New Zealand is home to two beautiful islands just waiting to be explored.
With that said though, if I had to pick a favorite it would be the South Island!
Don’t get me wrong, the North Island is beautiful but when compared to the majestic Southern Alps, deep fjords, alpine lakes, and cute mountain towns of the South Island, it’s an easy choice.
Of course, an island that is beautiful is filled with so many amazing places to visit. In fact, it can actually get overwhelming!
With most travelers on limited time, you need to pick and choose the most beautiful places when planning your itinerary .
So in this blog post, I’ll share the 15 best things to do in New Zealand South Island.
These include the most iconic spots home to some of the most amazing activities in New Zealand!
15 Amazing Places to Visit on South Island New Zealand
Milford sound.
Milford Sound is a fjord located deep in Fiordland National Park and one of the top NZ South Island attractions.
It’s the most popular fjord in New Zealand and one of the most breathtaking places to visit in the entire country.
Although called a “sound,” Milford Sound is actually a fjord meaning it was glacier-carved.
Visiting Milford Sound is most commonly done on a day trip from Queenstown or Te Anau, and tours leave from both towns every day of the year.
The most common way to explore Milford Sound is on a scenic cruise through the fjord.
These cruises depart from the Milford Sound ferry terminal and take visitors to secluded bays and waterfalls to view wildlife and learn about the area.
You can also join kayaking trips in Milford Sound, scenic flights , and even enjoy short nature walks .
Without a doubt, Milford Sound should be at the top of every South Island bucket list! It’s one of the most famous things to do in New Zealand South Island.
Te Anau is the closest town to Milford Sound and a popular place to stay before joining a tour or taking a day trip there.
I think Te Anau is a must-visit South Island destination that’s often overlooked by travelers.
The town itself sits on the shores of New Zealand’s second-largest lake, Lake Te Anau, and is surrounded by beauty.
On the lake, you can enjoy jet boating tours or even a scenic cruise.
The best attractions in Te Anau are the famous Te Anau Glow Worm Caves and the Kepler Track (one of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks.)
The glow worm caves are one of the best in New Zealand and remain off the beaten path compared to others.
The Kepler Track, on the other hand, is a super popular hiking trail and one of the best hikes on the South Island of New Zealand .
Although the full trail is 60 kilometers long in total, you can day hike parts of the trail from Te Anau in just one day.
It’s definitely one of the best places for hiking New Zealand South Island
Famous for breathtaking hiking trails, beautiful lakes, adventure sports, and an atmosphere that’s hard to beat, Queenstown is an outdoor lover’s paradise.
It’s also the most visited town on the South Island and a place I’ve called home. Of course, that might make me a little biased, but Queenstown is a must-visit town on the South Island.
Some of the best things to do in Queenstown include hiking the Ben Lomond Track, exploring nearby towns such as Arrowtown and Glenorchy, wandering vineyards in the Gibbston Valley, going on a thrilling jet boat ride , and simply just enjoying the most vibrant town in New Zealand.
Seriously, you won’t get bored in Queenstown!
When it comes to choosing how long to stay in Queenstown be sure to give yourself lots of time.
Unlike other towns on the South Island, Queenstown takes a little more time to explore because there’s just so much to see and things to do in the South Island NZ!
Wanaka is often referred to as Queenstown’s little brother. Located only a short drive away via a very scenic road, Wanaka is a mountain town with so much to offer.
The town sits on the shores of Lake Wanaka and the views over the lake are out of this world.
One of the most famous things to do in Wanaka is to hike Roy’s Peak . This epic trail is easily the most famous day hike in New Zealand and one I’ve personally done a few times.
From the top of the grueling hike, you get unmatched views over the Southern Alps and Lake Wanaka, and from the famous viewpoint, Instagrammers get the perfect shot.
Of course, that’s not all there is do in Wanaka, in fact, there’s so much you just have to stay a few nights.
Some of my favorites include visiting the Wanaka Lavender Farm, trying some craft beer at a brewery, taking a trip to the Wanaka Tree, and even enjoying a sunset cruise on the lake.
Visiting Wanaka is one of the top things to do in the South Island of NZ.
Franz Josef Glacier
Franz Josef is a small town located on the South Island’s stunning and wild, West Coast.
This area is also known as glacier country and nearby you can explore two very famous glaciers.
The first and closest is Franz Josef Glacier . The second is Fox Glacier located a short drive from Franz Josef near the town of, you guessed it, Fox Glacier.
Both glaciers can be viewed for free by hiking each viewpoint trail. Both trails only take around an hour to complete and are suited to most fitness levels.
The other way to visit the glaciers is on a glacier trek that includes a scenic flight to the glaciers. This is the best way to see the glaciers but also the most expensive.
Another really unique and beautiful place to visit nearby is Lake Matheson. This small calm lake is famous for its views and reflections of Mount Cook.
At sunrise, photographers pack the shoreline hoping to snap that famous shot! It’s a must-see in New Zealand’s South Island.
Punakaiki
A few hours north of Franz Josef sits another small town that showcases the change in scenery like no other.
As you say goodbye to the mountains on the West Coast, you’ll welcome lush forest, cliff faces and stunning beaches.
The most famous attraction in the town of Punakaiki is Pancake Rocks . It’s also one of the most popular things to do in New Zealand South Island.
This unique rock formation is thousands of years old and via a short boardwalk, you can stare out and enjoy the magnificent views and rocks that appear like pancakes stacked on a plate.
To stretch your legs some more I recommend hiking short but sweet Truman Track.
This 5-minute-long trail takes you to a secluded beach to see Blue penguins and more rock formations. At low tide, you can even explore a cave and spot starfish in the rocks.
It’s definitely one of the coolest places to visit in NZ South Island.
The Catlins
Most people who plan to visit New Zealand’s South Island have never heard of the Catlins. To me, this is such a shame.
It’s one of my favorite things to do on the South Island of New Zealand.
Not only is this beautiful region located on the very south of the South Island only a short drive from Dunedin , but some of the most epic waterfalls I’ve ever seen are located here.
Some of my favorites include Mclean Falls, Koropuku Falls, Purakaunui Falls, and Waipohatu Falls.
Other than waterfalls, there’s also lots of wildlife to see especially in Catlins with Curio Bay being the best spot.
At Curio Bay, you can see seals, blue penguins, dolphins and one of the world’s rarest penguins – the Yellow Crested penguin! Blue penguins are so common here they frequently wander around the holiday park!
On top of that, you can visit Slope Point, the most southern point of the South Island, explore a petrified forest at Curio Bay, and visit the famous Cathedral Caves.
The Catlins is home to so many attractions and road-tripping through the region is one of my favorite things to do in New Zealand!
Marlborough Sounds
The Marlborough Sounds is another best place to visit in South Island New Zealand. These huge sounds were carved by ancient rivers and make for a spectacular sight.
Exploring the Marlborough Sounds on a scenic cruise will have you spotting rare birds, dolphins, whales, penguins, and maybe even a kiwi!
Yep, that’s right, many of the islands in the Marlborough Sounds is predator-free and the DOC (Department of Conservation) use them to raise kiwi birds before releasing them back where they were born.
This increases their survival from 5% to over 80%!
For visitors like yourself, it provides a great chance to spot one in the wild!
If you’re looking for an epic adventure in the Marlborough Sounds then consider hiking the Queen Charlotte Track . The trail takes visitors through the sounds over 3 days and has you camping in remote places under the stars.
The closest town to the Marlborough Sounds is Picton which is also where the ferry to the North Island leaves from.
In fact, the ferry actually travels through the Marlborough Sounds on its way to Wellington!
Lake Tekapo
Home to the bluest lake in New Zealand, Lake Tekapo has become a staple on any New Zealand itinerary .
I myself love visiting Lake Tekapo during the famous Lupin season which runs from mid-November until the New Year.
During this time, colorful Lupin flowers line the edge of the lake and thousands of people come to see them.
Buts that’s not all Lake Tekapo is about, in fact, it’s actually located in a dark sky reserve and is one of the best places in New Zealand to see the stars.
There are even stargazing tours that take visitors to the Mt John Observatory to see planets, stars, and more.
Afterward, you can head to Tekapo Springs to relax under the night sky from the comfort of a hot pool.
But don’t let the adventure stop there. You can also, visit the Church of the Good Shepard, do a wilderness tour , go jet boating, and even enjoy a scenic flight in Lake Tekapo!
Mount Cook National Park
Only a short drive from Lake Tekapo is my favorite national park in New Zealand – Mount Cook National Park.
This remote national park is home to some of the best hikes in New Zealand including the Mueller Hut, Hooker Valley Track, Sealy Tarns Trail, and more.
On top of that, there are lots more to do in Mount Cook National Park including capturing beautiful photos, viewing the stars, enjoying a scenic flight , and even visiting the statue of Sir Edmond Hilary – a kiwi who was the first person to summit Mount Everest.
Staying in Mount Cook National Park is the best way to see everything and you can do so in Mount Cook Village.
There are around 6 hotels in the village and in the summertime, they need to be booked well in advance. From there, you’re only minutes from the hiking trails and lakes!
Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park, located in the southwestern corner of New Zealand’s South Island, is an unmissable spectacle of natural grandeur.
It’s a part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its majestic fjords, cascading waterfalls, and towering peaks.
The park is home to the world-famous Milford Sound, where Mitre Peak rises dramatically from the dark waters and waterfalls tumble from the cliffs. Experience unforgettable cruises , kayak adventures, or scenic flights offering unparalleled views of this water-carved landscape.
The park also hosts some of New Zealand’s Great Walks, including the Milford, Kepler, and Routeburn tracks, winding through verdant rainforests, alpine vistas, and along serene lakeshores.
With opportunities to spot unique wildlife like dolphins, seals, and penguins, Fiordland is truly a paradise for nature lovers. Its untamed, dramatic wilderness offers visitors an immersive journey into one of the most awe-inspiring corners of the world.
Abel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman National Park, situated at the northern end of New Zealand’s South Island, is a gem of golden beaches, sculptured granite cliffs, and lush native forest.
It’s the smallest national park in the country, but don’t be deceived by its size. It’s brimming with diverse ecosystems and boasts an abundant array of flora and fauna.
Its turquoise waters and sandy coastlines make it a perfect destination for water sports such as kayaking, boating , and swimming.
Hikers will relish the famous Abel Tasman Coast Track , one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, offering picturesque views, suspension bridges, and wildlife encounters. You can also explore the park’s marine reserves, rich in marine life like seals and dolphins.
With its temperate climate, Abel Tasman National Park offers a year-round retreat where visitors can experience tranquility and adventure amidst the natural beauty of New Zealand’s coastline and forest.
Queen Charlotte Sound
Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s Marlborough Sounds at the top of the South Island, Queen Charlotte Sound is a breathtaking blend of crystal clear waters, lush coastal forest, and secluded coves.
Known for its tranquility and stunning beauty, the Sound offers visitors a wide array of experiences. You can explore its serene waters by kayak or sailboat, or traverse the famous Queen Charlotte Track , a 70-kilometer trek that provides panoramic views of the Sounds and its wildlife.
The area is also rich in marine life, including dolphins, seals, and various bird species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
Enjoy world-class seafood, notably green-lipped mussels and salmon, from local establishments, and don’t miss the neighboring wine region, Marlborough, renowned for its exceptional Sauvignon Blanc.
A visit to Queen Charlotte Sound offers a delightful immersion in nature and a peaceful retreat from the bustle of daily life.
Mt Aspiring National Park
Mt. Aspiring National Park, located in the Southern Alps of New Zealand’s South Island, is a place of staggering beauty and grandeur.
Dominated by the towering peak of Mt. Aspiring, New Zealand’s second-highest mountain, the park is a dramatic landscape of glacier-clad mountains, wild river valleys, and alpine meadows. It offers a range of outdoor adventures from canyoning and hiking to fishing and jet-boating.
The park is home to a number of popular trekking routes, including the Routeburn and Rob Roy Glacier tracks, where hikers can witness extraordinary vistas, diverse ecosystems, and captivating wildlife.
The park is also recognized as a World Heritage Area, underlining its global importance for natural and cultural heritage.
Mt. Aspiring National Park offers a profound connection with nature, inviting visitors to engage with its beauty, learn about its ecology, and embark on unforgettable adventures in this slice of New Zealand’s wilderness.
Stewart Island
Stewart Island, or Rakiura in Maori, is New Zealand’s third largest island, located at the southernmost point of the country. It’s a haven of untouched beauty, featuring rugged coasts, dense forests, and tranquil bays.
Over 85% of the island is set aside as Rakiura National Park, where visitors can enjoy numerous hiking trails, from short walks to the multi-day Rakiura Track.
Stewart Island is also known for its abundant birdlife, including kiwis, albatrosses, and penguins, making it an ornithologist’s paradise. It offers a rare chance to spot the elusive Kiwi in its natural habitat.
Its dark sky sanctuary status also means stargazers might be treated to a mesmerizing view of the Southern Lights, or Aurora Australis.
Stewart Island’s remote tranquility, coupled with its unique fauna and stunning natural vistas, makes it an enticing destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path encounter with New Zealand’s wilderness.
South Island New Zealand FAQs
If you drive without stopping, it will take about 2 days. But, where’s the fun in that? Instead, we suggest at least a week so you have time to get out and enjoy some of the top things to do in the South Island New Zealand.
The best time to visit South Island NZ is during their shoulder seasons (March-May and September-October.) That’s the best way to avoid crowds and temperatures aren’t too hot or cold.
Because of the long flight and distance between cities in New Zealand, most people recommend at least 14 days. But, realistically, you’ll probably want closer to 21 days if you’re trying to explore both North Island and South Island.
South Island, New Zealand, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, including the Southern Alps mountain range, fjords of Milford Sound, and lakes such as Lake Wakatipu and Lake Tekapo. It is also home to some of the country’s famous wine regions, adventurous outdoor activities like bungee jumping, skiing, and trekking, as well as unique wildlife.
Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park, located in the southwest of the South Island, is often considered one of the country’s top attractions due to its dramatic landscapes and wildlife. Other top attractions include the Hobbiton Movie Set, Rotorua’s geothermal sites, and Auckland’s Sky Tower.
Yes, New Zealand’s South Island is home to part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Te Wahipounamu, meaning “the place of greenstone” in Māori, was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1990.
Visiting New Zealand’s South Island Conclusion
The South Island of New Zealand is a wild place and with the list above you’ll just about explore every landscape that makes this island so unique.
Just be sure to give yourself plenty of time, you might be surprised at how much there is to see and do!
About Bailey
Bailey is a travel writer from Canada who has spent most of her adult life traveling. Her love for travel has taken her all over the world but the one place she couldn’t forget was Queenstown in New Zealand.
After settling there, she started her blog My Queenstown Diary to help visitors enjoy the area and New Zealand in general. Be sure to follow her along if you plan on traveling New Zealand!
Looking for more New Zealand Travel Resources ? Check out my guides to Christchurch , Auckland , Queenstown , Dunedin , and Rotorua !
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New Zealand Bucket List: 26 Epic Things to do on the South Island
We had the opportunity to spend three months in New Zealand back in 2014. So, we bought a campervan in Auckland , drove around both the North and the South Island, and then sold it in Christchurch . We did some truly amazing multi-day hikes, went fishing with some crazy Kiwis (people, not birds), drank delicious Sauvignon Blanc, forged our own knives, and overall had an amazing time!
But unfortunately, we weren’t blogging back then. Partly because we were so busy adventuring, and partly because the Wi-Fi was abysmal. So instead of attempting to recall all of the epic things to see and do around the country, we decided to ask our blogging friends for some help.
Check out our compilation of 26 epic things to do during your trip to the South Island of New Zealand from a group of avid travelers. And don’t forget to check out our bucket list for New Zealand’s North Island as well. Enjoy!
Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).
26 Epic Things to do on the South Island of New Zealand
1. trek around abel tasman national park.
By Cat of Walk My World
Abel Tasman National Park is one of New Zealand’s premier hiking and kayaking destinations. It’s home to one of the nine Great Walks of New Zealand, a 37-mile loop track taking you to some of the country’s best beaches. The great thing about the Abel Tasman Track is that it is incredibly easy to day-hike different sections by using the water taxi service. So even if you only have a day or two, you can walk some of the prettiest sections of the track.
We highly recommend walking from Anchorage to Bark Bay via Cleopatra’s Pool as this section has it all! White sand beaches, deep turquoise water, and forested areas with iconic New Zealand ferns. There’s even a waterfall to visit and clear rock pools to bathe in if you prefer fresh water to seawater.
If you aren’t an avid hiker, you can kayak alongside the trail with a high chance of seeing playful dolphins and fur seals along the way. It is a truly stunning area that is well worth putting a couple of days aside to explore.
2. Go Wine Tasting in the Marlborough Region
By Nicole of Nicole Lebarge
One of my favorite things to do on the South Island is to go wine tasting! New Zealand wines are incredible and there is more to New Zealand wines than just Sauvignon Blanc. The Marlborough Region of New Zealand is found in the north of the South Island near Blenheim. It is recognized as one of the premium wine regions in the world and the best in New Zealand.
One of my favorite vineyards in the area is Auntsfield Estate which is nestled amongst the rugged southern hills. It is full of the history of Marlborough winemaking, having planted the first vineyard in the area in 1873. It’s open by appointment only so be sure to call ahead of time!
If you are looking to try all the best varieties in the area, I’d suggest that you take a wine tour. There are lots of different options to choose from. You can tour by bike or catamaran or take a small tour in a van. No matter what you choose, you’ll have a great time experiencing the wines of a new region!
3. Make Your Own Knife at Barrytown Knifeworks
Ever wondered how exactly knives are made? Well, you can find out by forging your own steel at Barrytown Knifeworks . You’ll begin with a safety briefing and then set about determining the shape of your knife. You’ll pound and fire your own steel to get the correct shape and size, and later sand and polish it to a finished product. It will give you a newfound appreciation for the knives you use for cooking every day!
Knifemaking is an all-day event but you’ll take a break at mid-day for lunch. And at the end of the day, you’ll be served drinks and snacks while you complement your new friends with their impressive knives. It’s an expensive activity but one that you can’t do just anywhere. And you won’t soon forget your experience!
4. Swim with Dolphins in Akaroa
By Nadine of Le Long Weekend
Swimming with wild dolphins anywhere in the world is one of those iconic bucket list experiences that many wish to tick off during their lifetime. But swimming with wild Hector’s dolphins near the Bank’s Peninsula is taking the experience to a whole new level!
New Zealand native Hector’s dolphins are the smallest dolphins in the world, and their numbers are very few. These endangered dolphins are only found swimming in the waters of New Zealand’s South Island, and Akaroa is the ideal place to launch off on an expedition to see and swim with them. The playful and curious dolphins are protected in this part of the island, and they can be found hunting together in small pods.
Responsible tour operators in the area, such as Black Cat Cruises , will carefully observe the dolphin’s behavior before allowing their passengers into the water to swim with them. But if the dolphins are in the mood for playing, they will gladly do so with any human that enters the water, and it’s truly a magical experience!
5. Skydive over Franz Josef Glacier
By Suzy of Suzy Stories
If you’re looking to check off all the New Zealand bucket list boxes with one activity, a Franz Josef skydive has to be it! Combining exhilarating, adrenaline-pumping extreme sports with the incredible aerial views of New Zealand’s iconic Southern Alps, you can’t get more Kiwi than that!
You’ll get to experience a beautiful flight taking you 16,500 feet in the air with the Tasman Sea to one side and the peaks of Aoraki/Mount Cook and Mount Tasman to the other. And before you know it, you’ll be sliding out the door! Skydiving is an experience in any circumstances, but when you have views of the wondrous nature of New Zealand while free-falling through the clouds, you won’t find a more memorable few minutes.
I can’t recommend the experience of skydiving over Franz Josef enough. It might well be the most spontaneously crazy thing I’ve ever done, and boy was it worth it! Better still, there are some amazing photos captured the whole way making it a truly treasured memory!
6. Go Heli Hiking on Franz Josef Glacier
By Sonja of Migrating Miss
There are so many amazing things to do in New Zealand , but our best experience by far was the Franz Josef Heli Hike. The Franz Josef Glacier is one of only three in the world that starts high up in the mountains and ends in a rainforest close to the sea. The best (and only!) way to get up close and personal is by taking a “Heli Hike” tour.
After being suited up with gear to handle glacier walking, including crampons, you’ll be flown high above the glacier in a helicopter to take in the epic views. Then the helicopter will land on the ice so you can start your glacier walking experience. The guides are well-versed in safely building paths as you go, so you can venture into wide crevices, over the top of the glacier, and even through ice tunnels.
You’ll spend around three hours on the glacier itself, before jumping back in a helicopter to return to the town below. The whole thing is an epic experience that you shouldn’t miss during a trip to the South Island!
7. Fly over Mount Cook
By Louis of The Northern Boy
Mount Cook mountain is one of the most amazing places to visit on the South Island in New Zealand. I was lucky enough to take a plane onto the Mount Cook Glacier and then take a helicopter ride back down. This was a surreal experience and one that I would highly recommend!
Mount Cook is one of the most visited places in New Zealand, and it’s no wonder considering how amazing it is. Mount Cook National Park is home to some of New Zealand’s highest and most beautiful mountains and the glaciers are absolutely breathtaking.
There are plenty of hikes near Mount Cook, but I would highly recommend taking the scenic flight over the mountain. Being able to step onto the glacier is an amazing experience and one you will remember forever. There are also a few campsites in the area which is the perfect location to set up camp for a few nights under the stars.
8. Take a Glacier Lake Boat Tour on Lake Tasman
By Jessica of One Girl, Whole World
A glacier lake boat tour is one of the coolest (pun intended) things you can do on the South Island! It provides an opportunity to get up close and personal with one of nature’s massive miracles.
The guide will take you on an easy 25-minute walk through gorgeous scenery to the boat dock. You’ll get to see baby icebergs as soon as you get out on the water, all of which have calved off the big glacier. The boat will probably go close enough so you can reach out and touch some of the icebergs yourself.
Finally, you’ll get to see the glacier a bit closer. At over 16 miles long, the Tasman Glacier is the longest in New Zealand! If you happen to visit on a clear day, you just can’t top the combination of blue sky, sharp icebergs, dark snow-capped mountains, and that insanely opaque turquoise water!
You can stay nearby, or base yourself in Lake Tekapo which is an easy (and gorgeous!) 90-minute drive away. This is also a perfect half-day activity when paired with the Hooker Valley track as the two activities start from the same place and take just a few hours each.
9. Hike the Hooker Valley Track
By Greta of Greta’s Travels
If you’re looking for the best things to do in New Zealand, you have to add Hooker Valley Track in Mount Cook/Aoraki National Park to your New Zealand bucket list! Hooker Valley Track is one of the most famous and beautiful hikes in New Zealand . It’s a six-mile return trip that takes you through Hooker Valley to Hooker Lake, and then back to your starting point.
It’s a very accessible hike for every fitness level since the whole trail is pretty flat (there is only a 300-foot elevation gain spread across three miles) and the path is well beaten. However, six miles is a long way so make sure you allow yourself enough time to do it. There are toilets halfway across the hike and picnic tables at the most scenic spots to stop for lunch.
Walking in the valley while surrounded on all sides by towering, snow-capped mountains is quite the experience. When you reach Hooker Lake, you might also be able to see small icebergs floating around in the lake. Don’t miss it during your trip to the South Island!
10. Spend the Night in a Mountain Hut
Katie and Ben of Two Wandering Soles
If you enjoy hiking and getting off the typical tourist route, spending a night in a mountain hut should definitely be on your bucket list while traveling on New Zealand’s South Island! So what are “mountain huts” exactly? Basically, this is a form of shelter along longer treks that give hikers a place to spend the night in nature.
New Zealand is home to a network of nearly 1,000 mountain huts, which range in accessibility and comfort. Some huts are incredibly remote and have only the most basic of facilities, while others are more comfortable and reached on relatively easy-to-manage paths. Some are incredibly popular. You’ll have to book your bed weeks in advance, while others are rarely visited and you’ll likely have the place to yourself.
We found Brewster Hut to be right up our alley. Not nearly as trafficked as some of the other more popular huts, Brewster Hut requires quite a strenuous three-hour hike to reach. But it is beyond worth it. The 360-degree views over Mount Aspiring National Park were some of the best we saw in all of New Zealand!
The hut itself is relatively basic, and you will need to bring your sleeping bag, cooking supplies, food, and water (there are rainwater collection tanks, but they were nearly empty during our stay). There is space for 12 people to sleep in “community-style” bunk beds, but unless you’re there during peak season, they likely won’t be full. Just be sure you go to a DOC office and pay for your spot in the hut, which allows them to keep them running.
Learn to speak Kiwi: When you stay at a mountain hut, you are “tramping”, not hiking.
11. Summit the Isthmus Peak
By Andrius of Katrippin
If you love hiking and are up for a real challenge with an amazing reward at the end, then hiking Isthmus Peak is something you absolutely have to do on New Zealand’s South Island! The track starts at the Isthmus Peak Trail Car Park and at the beginning the hike can appear deceptively easy. But those who have done it know that it gets increasingly challenging.
The route is around five miles each way and takes around 5-6 hours to get to the peak and back. With over .6 miles of elevation gain, it is a bit of a climb too. Even during the summer months, you will need windproof clothes, comfortable tennis shoes or hiking shoes, and plenty of water for each hiker.
Now let’s get to the fun part, the peak itself! Isthmus Peak is one of those places where any attempt to describe the physical “things” you can see from the top is just pointless. However, I can guarantee you will feel incredibly proud of yourself and amazed by the beauty of nature. Achy muscles and the sweat running down your face won’t matter. The fact you reached the top will. And that is what I call the real bucket list experience!
12. See the Moeraki Boulders
By Yen of Swing Abroad
Located at Koekohe Beach, between Hampden and Moeraki, the area surrounding the Moeraki Boulders is open to the public and is free of charge. That’s what I love about New Zealand! According to the ancient Maori legends, these massive Moeraki Boulders were all once gourds and baskets on a canoe that transformed into boulders when the canoe crashed.
Visit Moeraki Boulders at sunrise to enjoy one of the best sunrise views on the South Island. Because they are located on the east coast, you’ll see the sun rising from the horizon above the boulders. It’s truly beautiful. Tourists are also sleeping during these hours, so you’ll likely have the beach all to yourself.
Before you leave, try the chowder in Moeraki Café, you’ll love it! And be sure to check out this 10-day South Island itinerary !
13. Hike Roys Peak
By Carine and Derek of We Did It Our Way
If you didn’t go hiking in New Zealand, did you even go? Needless to say, nature in New Zealand left us completely speechless, much like the hike up Roys Peak. We will always remember this trek as being one of our favorites on the South Island!
Located a few miles away from Wanaka, undoubtedly one of New Zealand’s most picturesque cities, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding rolling hills along the way. Be sure you make your way up to the peak of the mountain, it’s one of the best views you can get!
If you set out to hike Roys Peak, know that you’re in for a long day, regardless of how active or healthy you are. Pack a lunch and snacks, and plenty of water. This will probably be the best lunch with a view you’ll get on the South Island!
Make sure to start early enough so you don’t have to climb in the scorching heat because there’s a lot of climbing! Although the trail is well-maintained, the 5,000-foot climb is a steep one. But the views you’ll get out of it will be well worth every moment!
On your way down, don’t forget to give a few words of encouragement to those making their way up!
14. Climb a Waterfall with Wildwire Wanaka
By Nicky of Go Live Young
The South Island in New Zealand is full of adventurous pursuits, but for something truly memorable, attempt the highest waterfall via Ferrata in the world with Wildwire Wanaka!
Located outside the beautiful lakeside town of Wanaka is this spectacular climb. A via Ferrata is a series of metal rungs and wire cables drilled into the rock. Climbers secure themselves to the cable and climb using the iron rungs, pegs, bridges, and ladders, allowing you to climb routes that may not otherwise be accessible. No climbing experience is necessary to enjoy a via Ferrata.
Wildwire Wanaka offers three climbs up the mighty Twin Falls. The easiest climb, ‘Go Wild’, takes just over an hour and is perfect for families. The intermediate climb ‘Wild Thing’ is perfect for those looking for more adventure. This was the climb we did as a family, our youngest being just eight at the time and the youngest person at the time to climb ‘Wild Thing’!
At times, you’re climbing so close to the falls you actually get wet. And I must mention the rope bridges, crossing from one rock face to another. You’ll dangle with nothing below you, with hundreds of meters drop to the valley floor below. Not for those with a fear of heights! The advanced climb ‘Lord of the Rungs’ is the highest waterfall via Ferrata in the world and includes a return by helicopter.
Our day at Wildwire Wanaka was one of our best during a month-long trip to New Zealand. A true bucket-list adventure. If you’re looking for an adventurous challenge, with the most amazing views, put Wildwire Wanaka on your list of things to do on the South Island!
15. Bungee Jump from Kawaru Bridge
By Sara of Our Kind of Crazy
One of the best experiences we had on the South Island of New Zealand was jumping off a bridge. Queenstown, New Zealand is home to the world’s first commercial Bungy jump. If you’ve ever considered it, this is the place to do it!
There are several different Bungy locations you can head to, but the Kawarau Bridge is the original. It’s also very unique in that you can actually jump off the bridge and touch or even be dunked in the water below.
The views all around are beautiful, but the feeling of standing on that bridge will be a feeling you won’t soon forget. It’s even a great stop to just head out and watch people take their leaps. You can grab lunch and get a souvenir at the gift shop as well.
If you’re looking for an awesome experience of a lifetime, you should definitely jump on this one!
16. Conquer the Shotover Canyon Swing in Queenstown
By Stephen of A Backpacker’s Tale
Having lived in Queenstown for over six months, I’ve done most of the adventures around the area. The most blood-pumping, adrenaline-inducing adventure I’ve experienced on the South Island of New Zealand is hands down Shotover Canyon!
Imagine tiptoeing to the edge of a platform. Looking down you see that hundreds of feet below you lie a gushing river. Then a voice behind you starts to countdown ” 3..2..1.. Jump”. And suddenly the wind is tearing at your face as you plummet towards the water. After falling 200 feet, you feel a tug in your harness, but instead of being bounced up, like bungee jumping, you are quickly shot through the Canyon in a massive 600-foot swing. Gulp!
However, what really makes this Canyon Swing more terrifying than bungee jumping is the variety of different jump styles, each one more daring than the last. Want to dangle over the edge of a chair, before being dropped without warning? You can! Want one of the employees to kick you off the ledge in an epic “This is Sparta” moment? Well, you have that option too! In all, there are 10 different ways to conquer the Shotover Canyon so every adventurer can find the perfect style that suits them.
17. Go Canyoning in Queenstown
By Bailey of Destinationless Travel
One of the most adventurous things I did during my trip to New Zealand was canyoning in Queenstown. As the most touristic city in all of New Zealand, there is an endless amount of things to do in Queenstown . As a result, it can be hard to choose the best adventure. But believe me, if you go canyoning, you won’t be disappointed!
A canyoning tour will have you ziplining over the canyon, repelling down cliff faces, jumping off cliffs, swimming through rivers, and so much more. I consider myself somewhat of a “thrill-seeker” so I had my doubts about how exciting canyoning would be to me, but it exceeded my expectations and my heart was racing the entire time!
The canyoning experience in Queenstown is also a very good value in comparison to many of the other adventure tours in the area. For only $189 NZD, this four-hour-long tour includes transport from Queenstown to the river, all your gear, professional guides, and snacks. To me, it was an excellent value and everyone on our tour had a great time!
18. Ride the Queenstown Luge
By Thais of World Trip Diaries
Even though you CAN luge in quite a few places around the world, Queenstown Luge beats all other options. Queenstown is one of the most beautiful places on earth and you can see the best views while racing down a track on your little luge cart.
It’s not a cheap day out, as you’ll probably want to get the gondola ride too, but it’s an incredible experience. It’s fun for people of all ages, and you have two track options: one for learners and one for the more adventurous. If you want to ride the faster track, you’ll need more than one ride, since the first ride is always on the ‘slow’ track. But don’t be fooled, both of them can be fast!
The best part of it is that you control your speed, so if you want a leisurely ride, with time to take photos, you can slow down. If you want the thrills, you can just let the cart go!
And since you’re up there already, why not try and paraglide too?
19. Trek the Routeburn Track
Of all the “Great Walks” in New Zealand, the Routeburn Track was absolutely our favorite! It’s a one-way trek so you’ll need to arrange to have your car or motorhome relocated to the other side. But no worries, it’s easy to book (or you can simply hitchhike back to your vehicle). The trek is 20.5 miles in total and you should plan on spending 2-4 days in the park.
The Routeburn Track links the Mount Aspiring National Park with the Fiordland National Park in the Southern Alps and offers incredibly diverse scenery. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Hollyford Valley and the Darren Mountains, along with beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and plenty of lush greenery.
As with all of the Great Walks, you’ll need to book your huts or campsites well in advance during the high season (~October – April each year). There are park rangers who check to make sure you have a reservation.
The Routeburn Track is certain to be a highlight of your time on the South Island of New Zealand!
20. Hike the Milford Track
By Yana of Beard and Curly
Considered one of the finest hikes in the world, the Milford Track is located in Fjordlands National Park and is one of the Great Walks in New Zealand .
This incredibly beautiful hike is typically a 4-night, 5-day trek. The lush greenery and stunning waterfalls throughout the entire track are incredible to experience. You’ll be in awe of your spectacular surroundings at every turn. The walk is moderate but can be challenging especially during heavy rain.
Walking up Mckinnon’s Pass can demanding, but it is worth it for the misty views. The walk into the beautiful glaciated valleys is the perfect way to immerse yourself in New Zealand’s nature. Make sure to take the side trip to Mackay falls, New Zealand’s highest waterfall!
The Milford Sound is one of the wettest places on earth so be prepared with rain gear and extra food in case bad weather arises. The track can be booked out as far as six months in advance. For bookings check the DOC website .
21. Cruise Around Milford Sound
By Laurence of Finding the Universe
Near the top of your New Zealand bucket list should definitely be a cruise on Milford Sound . This is a spectacular fjord in the far southwest of the country and is a part of the Fiordland National Park, the largest of New Zealand’s National Parks.
Milford Sound is particularly well known as being the home of Mitre Peak, a mile-high mountain that seems to just shoot straight up out of the fjord. There are also many other peaks in the area, and there are multiple waterfalls that cascade down into Milford Sound.
In our opinion, one of the best ways to experience Milford Sound is to take a scenic boat cruise. These depart from the Milford Sounds Visitors’ Center and give you the opportunity to see many of the highlights of Milford Sound. These include the multitude of waterfalls and mountain peaks, as well as wildlife such as dolphins if you’re lucky.
There are a variety of tours to choose from, with varying lengths. Milford Sound is around nine miles long, so some tours go all the way to the end, whereas shorter tours will see a bit less. You can book tours directly from the visitor center, and there are also operators who depart from Te Anau and Queenstown, which is a good option if you don’t have your own transport.
22. Enjoy the Serene Lake Marian
By Zenja of Bearly Here
Hidden in the Fiordland National Park, Lake Marian might not be easily accessible, but it’s definitely one of the most picturesque lakes on the South Island. It’s also a great stop on the way from Te Anau to Milford Sound .
The return hike to Lake Marian takes around three hours. It’s not a difficult trail, but since you are making your way to the alpine lake, be prepared for plenty of uphill action. Starting at the car park, you will first reach the waterfalls and then walk through the lush forest and some steep rocky hills towards the lake. Reaching it seems so surreal. After walking through a green trail, this serene glacial lake is not what you expect to see.
Lake Marian is surrounded by mountains and provides magnificent views of the hanging valley that reflects on the water’s surface. It’s a perfect place to have a peaceful break since it’s not overcrowded with tourists. This was one of my favorite spots on the South Island, and I highly recommend taking your time to explore the surroundings and have a picnic at the lake.
23. Try More Better Meat Pies in Te Anau
By Talek of Travels with Talek
Te Anau is a small town of 2,000 people that sits on the edge of Lake Te Anau, the largest lake on New Zealand’s South Island . It is on the way to Milford Sound, a major attraction in the area.
Many people miss Te Anau on the way to better-known attractions but that’s a mistake as this cute little town has a lot to offer! The most notable among them are taking a tour of the Glowworm Caves and going jet boarding on the lake.
There are many hiking trails in Te Anau that go through the temperate rainforest areas so common on the South Island. You’ll see exotic giant ferns, bright green moss-covered trees, and crystalline lakes created by receding glaciers along the way.
Despite this abundant natural beauty, the one-stop you absolutely must make in Te Anau is a little shop at the intersection of routes 94 and 6, on the way to Milford Sound, called More Better Meat Pies. This tiny, unassuming shop has hordes of tour buses and cars lined up to taste their delicious pies. One taste and you’ll know why! These flaky little savory delights are so good you’ll keep going back for more!
24. Explore the Doubtful Sound
By Samantha of Miss Samantha Elizabeth
Without a doubt, Doubtful Sound is a must on any New Zealand itinerary. It is most easily accessed when staying in Te Anu, however, you can also experience Doubtful Sound if you are staying in Queenstown. It will just be a bit longer of a day as you will have a 2-hour bus ride to the starting point of your tour.
Your day will start with a 1-hour boat ride across Lake Manapouri before reaching the hydro plant and hopping off at the West Arm Visitor Center. You will then take a 45-minute bus ride through the Fiordland, stopping to see some fantastic viewpoints and waterfalls. At the end of the bus ride, you will reach the starting point of Doubtful Sound and hop on a boat that will take you to explore this beautiful place.
Exploring the Doubtful Sound offers an extremely peaceful boat ride through the Fiordland. The rolling green landscape against the deep blue water makes it feel like it is out of a movie and simply can not be real. Moving through the Doubtful Sound passages and being surrounded by high cliffs make for beautiful photo opportunities and fantastic views that are truly unforgettable!
25. Go Wildlife Spotting at the Otago Peninsula
By Dominic of DomOnTheGo
If you are adventuring through New Zealand’s South Island and looking for an epic wildlife experience, be sure to make a pit stop in the east coast city of Dunedin, which is the entry point to the Otago Peninsula! New Zealand’s Otago Peninsula offers visitors a fantastic excursion with sweeping landscape views and the ability to spot some of the most unique wildlife in the world.
Pop into the Royal Albatross Center, the world’s only mainland-breeding colony of the Royal Albatros. Keep your eyes peeled for New Zealand Fur Seals and Hooker Sea Lions, it’s one of the rarest sea lion species in the world!
Otago Peninsula is also an important breeding area for the rare Yellow-Eyed Penguin and the Blue Penguin, which is not only the smallest of its kind but also happens to only be found in New Zealand.
While you can visit this bucket list destination on your own, it’s worth booking one of the many wildlife tours. Guides will provide information about these species and have access to private conservation areas, which get you up close and personal with these amazing creatures.
26. Visit Stewart Island
By Rohan of Travels of a Bookpacker
One of the most beautiful parts of New Zealand is tucked away on a tiny island to the south of the South Island. Stewart Island is slowly welcoming more and more visitors to its shores as people hear about the untouched beaches, abundant birdlife, and welcoming locals.
This island is home to one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Rakiura Track, which is heaven for hikers of all levels. Aside from this easy 3-day hike, there are backcountry tracks running loops around the north and south ends of the island.
Stewart Island is also full of native birds with Kereru, Kaka, and Tui flocking through the town and nearby bush. It is also one of the best chances to see the elusive Kiwi bird in the wild as they outnumber people on the island by about 40 to 1!
The town offers a couple of cafes, a pub (with a fun quiz night), a small cinema, and some of the best fish and chips in the world served from a caravan. Life doesn’t get much better than a relaxed few days on Stewart Island!
Have an amazing trip to New Zealand’s South Island!
Looking for more New Zealand travel inspiration? Check out our favorite books!
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About the Author:
Nick took his first solo trip abroad to Ireland and Scotland when he was just 19. Since then he has visited over 70 countries around the world (plus 45 states in the USA). He coupled his passion for travel photography with Val’s passion for writing and thus Wandering Wheatleys was born. He now lives in Asheville with his two rambunctious kids, Humphrey and Wilhelminha. Besides photography, Nick loves eating the weirdest food he can find in a country (sheep’s brain currently sits in first place) and making Val get up an hour before sunrise to make sure he gets “the good light”.
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1 thought on “new zealand bucket list: 26 epic things to do on the south island”.
I’ve been to NZ 3 times but there are still a few amazing things on this list I need to go back for 🙂
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Our Woven Journey
10 Most Magical Places to Add to Your Travel Bucket List
Posted: July 4, 2023 | Last updated: July 4, 2023
The world possesses an ethereal, breathtaking beauty that looks like it's from a dream. Lucky wayfarers discover these mystical places for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. An online travel community shares the memorable locales that should be on everyone's fantasy travel list. Have you ever been?
The East African nation is famed worldwide for its Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro. It has other attractions for adventure seekers, like the spectacular views from the Ngorongoro Crater, an inactive volcano called the Eighth Wonder of the Natural World, the beaches and reefs from Tanzania's three islands, and its abundant wildlife.
The South Island of New Zealand
South Island earns accolades from several travelers on the thread. South Island boasts impressive sights such as its native blue penguin colonies, incredible glaciers and fjords, and layered natural limestone formations at Pancake Rocks and Blowholes at Dolomite Point.
Scotland is famous for its whisky, bagpipes, kilts, haggis (don't ask), and the Loch Ness monster. The country has its share of manufactured beauty through its historic castles. Tourists on the forum insist Scotland has much more to offer. The one-of-a-kind views from the mountainous Scottish Highlands and the lovely landscapes created by the more than 31,000 lochs or lakes are unlike anything else on the planet.
According to veteran travelers, it may be Europe's least populated country, but Iceland is a sightseer's dream. Iceland's underground caverns consist of ancient artificial caves, volcanic lava tubes, and natural ice caves that are constantly changing.
Hikers can climb up any of the country's 1330 volcanoes, even the active ones. If seeing the Northern Lights is on your travel bucket list, Iceland offers a front-row seat to the celestial light show.
A digital nomad from the online travel community describes Tibet as "giving off this otherworldly vibe or like a place where the heavens and earth collide." Tibet has an abundance of beautifully constructed temples, palaces, and monasteries to visit. The Tibetan plateau and Himalayan mountain range are essential to any travel bucket list.
The beaches and Venetian-style cities are just some of the diverse Slovenian attractions for one excursionist. The lavish landscapes, the stunning scenery of the various mountain chains, including the Alps, and the elaborate underground cave system give this Balkan state a magical feel.
The expansive Patagonia region of South America spans two countries, Chile and Argentina. Visitors to Patagonia must see the Torres Del Paine National Park, a biosphere reserve recognized by the United Nations. Voyagers can take in the stone towers while hiking, kayaking in the rivers and lagoons, star gazing, or catching a peek at the native wildlife.
This archipelago in Portugal is a fantasy world for land and sea gallivanters. Memorable landmarks include volcanos, intricate cave systems, hot springs, and rock formations. Seafarers can dive to view aquatic life habitats or stay on the water's surface to watch the various whale and dolphin species. One fortunate explorer revels in having the opportunity to live in the Azores for a year.
The Galápagos Islands
Known for its exceptional biodiversity and endangered species, this Ecuadorean volcanic island chain in the Pacific Ocean is a virtual paradise of rare plants, land animals, and sea creatures. Guided tours are available to view land animal habitats. In addition, snorkeling and diving excursions allow visitors to get up close and personal with various sea life.
Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Numerous traveling pros on the forum highly recommend Canada's first national park. Hikers can traverse the Canadian Rockies in the warmer months and ski and snowboard in the colder months. Walkers and boaters can admire the turquoise-colored lake waters.
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Whether you're a history buff or not, these 20 impressive historical places to visit help make travel special.
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Mexico is a land of rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes, and its cities are a true representation of its beauty and charm. From the vibrant colonial charm of Mexico City to the stunning Pacific coastlines of Mazatlán, the country has a host of cities that offer an unforgettable experience to visitors.
This article was produced by Our Woven Journey. Source . Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock.
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TranzAlpine rail journey
Abel Tasman
TranzAlpine rail
Abel Tasman walk
11 Day Top of South Island Guided Coach Tour | Coach Journeys New Zealand
This signature coach tour takes you to the top of the South Island. Discover the wine-growing region of Marlborough, the golden beaches of Abel Tasman National Park, and the famous TranzAlpine Scenic Railway.
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This guided coach tour offers scenic landscapes filled with wilderness, wildlife, and unique attractions. The iconic TranzAlpine Scenic Railway, the wine-growing Marlborough region, and golden sandy beaches of Abel Tasman National Park are just a few of the highlights of this spectacular South Island coach journey.
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11 must-do experiences in the South Island Experience New Zealand's highest peak and explore the only castle in the country. Admire striking lakeside views, street art and mountain peaks. The South Island hosts some of the purest natural landscapes you'll ever experience. Add some of these must-do's to your South Island itinerary. 1.
1. Queenstown For a small town, there is so much to check out! Without a doubt, one of the most amazing places to visit on the South Island is my hometown of Queenstown, New Zealand. I fell in love with this mountain town the minute I arrived, and every day I fall a little more.
Best Things to Do on the South Island 1. Cruise the Milford Sound/Piopiotahi 2. Visit Doubtful Sound/Patea 3. Get Your Adrenaline Fix in Queenstown (Tāhuna) 4. Go Bungy Jumping 5. See Aoraki / Mount Cook 6. Visit Akaroa & the Banks Peninsula 7. See Hector's Dolphins 8. Visit Cathedral Caves 9. Go Hiking in Abel Tasman National Park 10.
Overview Things to do Hotels When to visit Map & Neighborhoods Photos Overview Things to do Hotels When to visit Map & Neighborhoods Photos 12 Best Things To Do in South Island, New...
Things to Do in South Island, New Zealand - South Island Attractions Things to Do in South Island Explore popular experiences See what other travelers like to do, based on ratings and number of bookings. See All Day Cruises (92) Half-day Tours (229) Scenic Drives (20) 4WD Tours (66) Private and Luxury (147) Nature & Wildlife Areas (95)
Cable Bay Abel Tasman National Park Region: Tasman Abel Tasman National Park is the most tropical feeling place in New Zealand's South Island.
The drowned river valleys of Queen Charlotte, Pelorus, Kenepuru, and Mahau Sounds are a watery paradise of calm seas and forested mountains rising out of the water. While a highway connects Picton, the largest town in the sounds, with other parts of the South Island, most of the sounds aren't accessible by road.
1. Mount Cook National Park We think this might be our favourite place to visit in New Zealand's south island and it should definitely be high on your bucket list. Mount Cook is New Zealand's tallest mountain and the walking tracks in the surrounding national park are simply stunning with gorgeous views of lakes and glaciers.
1. Drive Arthur's Pass - best road in NZ south island Why visit - Arthur's pass is definitively my favorite road in New Zealand. It has it all: mountains, lakes, rock formations, waterfalls… At each turn you discover a new magnificent scenery where the mountains seem to have been painted by mother Nature. Location - South Island
1. Christchurch 2. Milford Sound 3. Wanaka 4. Queenstown 5. Golden Bay 6. Franz Josef 7. Slope Point 8. Kaikoura 9. Arthur's Pass 10. Dunedin 11. Moeraki Boulders
Top Things to Do in South Island Things to Do in South Island Explore popular experiences See what other travellers like to do, based on ratings and number of bookings. Day Cruises (91) Half-day Tours (230) Scenic Drives (20) 4WD Tours (68) Private and Luxury (148) Nature & Wildlife Areas (95) Day Trips (77) Whale Watching (10) Bodies of Water (86)
1. Experience a Heli-Hike on the Tasman Glacier You can do a few pretty epic things on the South Island, so let's start with arguably one of the most epic! In Aoraki Mt Cook, you can land on New Zealand's largest glacier in a helicopter and explore its ice caves (more info, read reviews and book tickets on Viator and KKday).
1. Marlborough Sounds If you take the ferry from Wellington to Picton, you will already experience part of the grandeur of the Marlborough Sounds. However, you can also go for a hike to see one or more of the sounds.
Larnach Castle is New Zealand's only castle. (Image: Dunedin NZ) 10. Go wild on Stewart Island. Stewart Island/Rakiura is a unique Kiwi escape located 30 kilometres south of the South Island (one hour by ferry from Bluff, a fishing port renowned for its oysters).
1. Marvel at Mount Cook, New Zealand's highest mountain Aoraki / Mt Cook, Christchurch - Canterbury By Will Patino Experience the beauty of Aoraki/Mount Cook on foot. Enjoy a birds eye view of the area from the air on a scenic flight or go on a boat trip with Glacier Explorers on the only accessible glacial lake with icebergs in the world.
1. Milford Sound Milford Sound is often referred to as the 8th Wonder of the World - when you see it for yourself, we guarantee you'll agree! Milford Sound, although technically a fiord, was carved out by a glacier thousands of years ago and is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the South Island.
1. Queenstown Queenstown is one of my favorite places in the world. It's the adventure capital of New Zealand and is by far the most exciting and lively place to visit on the South Island.
14 Must-See Most Beautiful Places In New Zealand South Island. 1. Lake Tekapo. Interesting things to do at Lake Tekapo are: 2. Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park. Fun things to do in Mount Cook are: 3. Queenstown aka adventure capital of the world.
Spend a few days in Marlborough Sound to hike, take a cruise along the Sound, and go on a wine tour - this is one of the best wine regions in the country! 1. Mount Cook National Park. Mount Cook National Park was an easy choice to list as the first destination of the best places to visit on the South Island.
With 10 days on the South Island of New Zealand, you have just enough time to visit several top spots. Queenstown, Wanaka, the Milford Sound, and seeing Aoraki / Mount Cook (New Zealand's tallest mountain) all top the list, but you also have the option to add on the Southern Scenic Route, Akaroa, Abel Tasman, and the Marlborough wine region.
Destinations South Island New Zealand's South Island hosts the purest natural landscapes you'll ever experience. From wildlife to wineries, glacial valleys to star-filled skies, the South Island offers adventure in all its forms. Choose to explore just one region, or road trip from Picton all the way down to Bluff.
The best attractions in Te Anau are the famous Te Anau Glow Worm Caves and the Kepler Track (one of New Zealand's 10 Great Walks.) The glow worm caves are one of the best in New Zealand and remain off the beaten path compared to others. The Kepler Track, on the other hand, is a super popular hiking trail and one of the best hikes on the South ...
We had the opportunity to spend three months in New Zealand back in 2014. So, we bought a campervan in Auckland, drove around both the North and the South Island, and then sold it in Christchurch.We did some truly amazing multi-day hikes, went fishing with some crazy Kiwis (people, not birds), drank delicious Sauvignon Blanc, forged our own knives, and overall had an amazing time!
The world possesses an ethereal, breathtaking beauty that looks like it's from a dream. Lucky wayfarers discover these mystical places for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. An online travel ...
The content on this page was created by 11 Day Top of South Island Guided Coach Tour | Coach Journeys New Zealand. This website helps visitors connect with providers of great New Zealand tourism experiences. It is not intended to give any assurance that any particular provider meets certain quality standards or legal obligations.