Welcome to the South Island
Nelson Tasman
Visit the Nelson Tasman region at the top of the South Island to explore three different national parks, enjoy golden beaches and savour the local wines.
Top attractions
Hike the Queen Charlotte Track – can be enjoyed as a day hike or multi-day adventure. End the experience with a relaxing stay at one of the luxury retreats in the area.
Kayaking in the Abel Tasman National Park – paddle pristine waters, discover golden sand beaches and watch seals basking in the sunshine. Land ashore and hike summits to enjoy the views across the region.
Golden Bay and Te Waikoropupū Springs – no trip to Golden Bay is complete without a visit to Te Waikoropupu Springs, the largest coldwater springs in the Southern Hemisphere. Or take a tour of the 35km Farewell Spit, home to a vast bird sanctuary and various other wildlife.
West Coast
The West Coast of the South Island stretches 600km of rugged coastline hemmed in by the snow-capped peaks of the Southern Alps. Featuring beautiful national parks with stunning views of the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, rain forests, mountains and crystal-clear lakes, the West Coast
Top attractions:
Treetop Adventure – easy access walk on a steel platform enabling you to experience life with the birds, high in the ancient native tree canopy.
Cycling – bike the West Coast Wilderness Trail, one of New Zealand’s ‘Great Rides’
Pounamu – fossick for pounamu (also known as greenstone) on the beach and have your piece transformed by a local carver.
Christchurch/Canterbury
Also known as Ōtautahi, Christchurch is a vibrant destination and there is no other city like it in the world. After recovering from devastating earthquakes, the city has rebuilt from scratch. Wander through the streets admiring the colourful murals that tell stories of the city's resilience and indomitable spirit or glide on the Avon River, meandering through the city centre.
Top attractions in the region:
Hamner Springs – a resort town near the Lewis Pass, surrounded by forest trails and rivers. Lots of activities to enjoy including white water rafting and jetboating. The popular thermal springs provide the ultimate way to relax at the end of an adventurous day.
Kaikoura Whale Watch – one of New Zealand’s most popular experiences, this community led business has helped revitalise the local area. A great story of resilience as well as an exceptional experience to view Giant Sperm Whale’s in their natural environment.
Akaroa – originally settled by the French in 1840, this seaside village is a popular place to visit for its lovely boutiques, cafes and the chance to see the rare Hector’s dolphins in their natural habitat.
Wanaka
Located in the spectacular alps of the South Island, New Zealand, visitors from around the world are drawn to the Wanaka region by its outstanding beauty. The stunning mountain and lakeside setting and proximity to Mt Aspiring National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Area, makes it the ultimate base for outdoor activities.
Top attractions:
Hike in Mount Aspiring National Park – he park is well-known for the Blue Pools Track and Rob Roy Glacier Track. Stellar views await at the summit of Roys Peak.
Ski or snowboard – From June to October Wānaka is a hub for snow lovers. The largest ski field in the South is Treble Cone. A four kilometre run offers great views of Lake Wānaka from the top.
Photograph 'That Wānaka Tree' – According to Otago locals, 'That Wānaka Tree' was nothing more than a small willow tree that begun it's life as a fence post. It then transformed into a picture-perfect tourist spot on Lake Wanaka's waterfront. Today, it is the most photographed tree in New Zealand.
Queenstown
A place to visit that is on everyone’s wishlist, Queenstown is world-renowned for its adventure and adrenalin activities. From jet boating to bungy jumping, white water rafting and skydiving. There are of course, slower pace activities to enjoy from scenic boat cruises and walking trails to some of our wineries and cellar doors in Gibbston.
Top attractions:
Water sports - You can embark on a thrilling jet boat ride, parasailing, canoeing, kayaking, whitewater rafting or river surfing.
Bungy jumping - Not only is Queenstown ground-zero for commercial bungy jumping, it’s home to the best bungy jumps and swings in New Zealand and around the world.
Wineries - Queenstown is the gateway to the Central Otago wine region, with its six sub-regions: Gibbston, Cromwell/Pisa/Lowburn, Bannockburn, Bendigo, Wanaka and Alexandra. Each subregion has its own distinct climate, with nearby Gibbston the highest and coolest.
Horse-trekking - Combine a TSS Earnslaw cruise across Lake Whakatipu, a leisurely horse trek and a delicious afternoon tea at Walter Peak High Country Farm
Arrowtown - One of the most picturesque settlements in New Zealand, Arrowtown sits alongside the gold-bearing Arrow River and is just 20 minutes from Queenstown. The town was established in 1862, during the height of the Otago gold rush.
Fiordland
Fiordland is most famous for hiking and walking. Three of New Zealand's Great Walks are found in Fiordland (Kepler, Milford and Routeburn) and there is a huge number of day walk options. Te Anau and Manapouri offer a huge range of activities to do on the lake.
Top attractions:
Hiking – Try one of the many multi-day walks of Fiordland - perfect for those who are in search of authentic wilderness experiences and adventures.
Doubtful Sound - Day cruises and overnight depart from Manapouri, just a 20-minute drive from Te Anau. Lush rainforest, immense waterfalls and local populations of kekeno, the New Zealand fur seals and tawaki, the rare Fiordland crested penguin.
Glowworms - Cruise across Lake Te Anau for a unique journey into the Te Anau Glowworm Caves. In a spectacular cave system sculpted by water, spend time with hundreds of glittering glowworms.
Day Walks - Te Anau is the basecamp for Fiordland National Park and the perfect place to set yourself up for day walking. Nestled on the shores of Lake Te Anau, the township offers easy access to many great walking options.
Dunedin
Dunedin is known for its Scottish and Māori heritage, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, and a large student population. Hiking and cycling trails crisscross the dramatic landscape of the adjoining Otago Peninsula, home to colonies of albatross, sea lions and rare yellow-eyed penguins.
Top attractions:
Wildlife tours – the Otago Peninsula is famous for its wild windswept coastlines and wildlife, including albatross, penguins and sea lions.
Larnach Castle and Gardens – visit Larnach Castle, a fun, quirky landmark with a fascinating history, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Visit Port Chalmers – A short drive from Dunedin, historic Port Chalmers is truly charming. The village offers an interesting mix of heritage attractions, cafés and galleries.
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