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Things To Do In South Island

The South Island of New Zealand harbours so many amazing sights and experiences. It is an unparalleled haven for breathtaking natural wonders and unforgettable experiences. From the soaring peaks of the Southern Alps to the pristine coastal landscapes, the region captivates visitors with its diverse offerings. Every corner of the South Island ... Show More

Tourist Information About South Island

Top Attractions

Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Tour

Milford Sound Coach &...

Join Pure Milford for all all inclusive day tour to magical Milford Sound from Q ......

Bike The Lake Dunstan Trail With A Return Luxury Mercedes Shuttle

Bike The Lake Dunstan...

Experience one of NZ's Official Great Rides - 42km of purpose built trail. Bike ......

Heli Jet Combo

Heli Jet Combo

One of the best wilderness experiences available – “Gotta do it!”

Milford Sound Scenic Flight

Milford Sound Scenic ...

Experience magnificent Milford Sound by air.

Sea Kayaking, Lyttelton Harbour & Quail Island- Start/finish in Christchurch

Sea Kayaking, Lyttelton H...

Sea Kayaking tour of Lyttelton Harbour- Explore secret bays, sunken ships and sea caves ar ......

Milford Sound Heli-Cruise-Heli

Milford Sound Heli-Cruise...

You’ll want your camera for this one. Rainforests, steep valleys and mountain lakes fill ......

Flight option 1 - Franz Josef Glacier incl. snow landing (allow 20 minutes - departs Franz Josef)

Flight option 1 - Franz J...

Explore the Franz Josef Glacier to 6,000ft and land on the snow with exceptional views of ......

The High Country Pub Trail Horse Trek

The High Country Pub Trai...

Mount up and begin the big hill climb which soon gives way to spectacular views of the sur ......

Boutique Wine Tour (11am to 4.30pm)

Boutique Wine Tour (11am ...

Relax and be whisked away into the splendid wine country of Central Otago. Your wine guid ......

Full day Intro to Rock Climbing

Full day Intro to Rock Cl...

It’s no surprise that our ‘Introduction To Rock Climbing’ is our most popular trip. ......

Scenic Trial Flight

Scenic Trial Flight

A scenic trial flight is a short 20min, 30min, or 1 hour flight in a small aircraft with a ......

Alpine Snow Landing

Alpine Snow Landing

Discover some of New Zealand's most spectacular scenery by air before touching down for a ......

Best Abel Tasman Day tour

Best Abel Tasman Day tour

A small group personalized 6 hour daytrip, exploring the beautiful Abel Tasman National Pa ......

Wild North West Mountain to Sea by private helicopter

Wild North West Mountain ...

A flight of a lifetime covering the north-western tip of the South Island - two National P ......

Sutherland Falls Scenic Flight - Milford Helicopters

Sutherland Falls Scenic F...

Special Features: Sights of the iconic scenic views Milford Sound is known for. Aerial ......

Mid Canterbury Spin and Soak Tour

Mid Canterbury Spin and S...

A brand new tour unlike any others. The Mid Canterbury Spin and Soak Tour is a special d ......

Nomad Safaris Routeburn - Guided Walks

Nomad Safaris Routeburn -...

One of New Zealand’s Great Walks – the Routeburn Track, is waiting for you! Available ......

Christchurch to Queenstown One Way Tour, Via Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo

Christchurch to Queenstow...

Christchurch To Queenstown via Mt Cook & Lake Tekapo. This one-way, small group, fully ......

3 HOUR PRIVATE CHARTER

3 HOUR PRIVATE CHARTER

Excellent for corporate events and team building! Book a private fishing charter for speci ......

Queenstown to Mt Cook One Way Tour

Queenstown to Mt Cook One...

Queenstown to Mt Cook Tour 1 way, this small group, fully-guided transfer allows you to tr ......

Albatross Encounter

Albatross Encounter

Kaikoura is renowned worldwide as a seabird hot spot and is one of the best places in the ......

Milford Sound Fly-Cruise-Fly

Milford Sound Fly-Cruise-...

Our most popular scenic flight option, this package lets you experience the sheer scale an ......

Self-Guided Milford Track Day Walk - Lake Te Anau

Self-Guided Milford Track...

Experience the Milford Track, one of New Zealand’s most famous hiking trails independent ......

Extended Whale Watch Flight - 40 Minutes

Extended Whale Watch Flig...

Take to the skies for a unique view on a whale-watching flight over Kaikoura. With a guara ......

Christchurch Day Out: Sheep Farm Adventure with Lunch, Winery visit and City highlights

Christchurch Day Out: She...

Discover the best of Canterbury on this day tour from Christchurch to Waipara Valley. Expl ......

Lochmara Day Trips

Lochmara Day Trips

Cruise to Lochmara, one of Marlborough's most popular destinations, taking in the surround ......

Heli Max Jet Combo

Heli Max Jet Combo

Short on time? Skip the hike with our Fly/Jet Boat Heli Max Combo.

Trails of Middle Earth

Trails of Middle Earth

Epic Adventures to the Real Middle Earth and Back Again! We’ll take you to the original ......

Kaikoura - Whale Watching Ocean Safari

Kaikoura - Whale Watching...

Embark on a remarkable journey through the captivating wildlife and scenic beauty of Kaik� ......

Walking tour- Packhorse Hut from Chrsitchurch

Walking tour- Packhorse H...

A guided scenic drive & day walk to Packhorse Hut - Visiting 4 historic stone "re ......

Kaikōura Ziplining & Native forest trail

Kaikōura Ziplining &...

Set amongst native bush on a working farm just 15 minutes south of Kaikōura township, Eco ......

Swimming with Dolphins

Swimming with Dolphins

Our 3.5-hour Swimming with Dolphins experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim ......

City Highlights, Larnach Castle & Peninsula Views

City Highlights, Larnach ...

For those people looking for a tour in Dunedin we here at Tourworks NZ would love to have ......

Bay Ride

Bay Ride

Learn to ride and go for a glide. The 1hr Bay Ride can fit into any schedule for an experi ......

Get involved Discovery Tour

Get involved Discovery To...

Step back in time and discover what New Zealand use to look like with short walks through ......

Hike and Kayak Combo Adventure Akaroa

Hike and Kayak Combo Adve...

Looking for an active day? Join us for a full day of adventure combining a morning hike th ......

Dunedin City & Coastal Views Tour

Dunedin City & Coasta...

Dunedin is known as the 'Edinburgh of the South'. It has some of the best preserved Victor ......

Seafood Odyssea Cruise

Seafood Odyssea Cruise

Relax and enjoy the stunning Marlborough Sounds with the exclusive afternoon Seafood Odyss ......

Milford Sound Fly Cruise Fly

Milford Sound Fly Cruise ...

Take off from Queenstown, and fly above the rugged backcountry of Lake Wakatipu and Centra ......

Daves Diving Kaikoura

Daves Diving Kaikoura

Join us to experience kelp forests, octopus, stingray, native fish species, spectacular bi ......

Earnslaw Burn Express

Earnslaw Burn Express

Our most popular experience. The Earnslaw Burn boasts an incredible hanging glacier and ca ......

3 HOUR SHARED CHARTER

3 HOUR SHARED CHARTER

A lot can happen in three hours… and joining a small group on this charter, fishing alon ......

Queenstown Progressive Dinner Tour | Adults Only - Departs Queenstown Daily (6:30pm to 9:30pm)

Queenstown Progressive Di...

Experience the best of Queenstown by night as we take you on a culinary journey on the reg ......

Kaikoura - Whale Watch Premier

Kaikoura - Whale Watch Pr...

An exceptional flight experience showcasing the exquisite beauty of the coastal town of Ka ......

Glacier Landing

Glacier Landing

Explore hidden alpine lakes and cascading waterfalls as we head deep into the rugged glaci ......

24/48 Hour Pohatu Package at a Penguin Colony!

24/48 Hour Pohatu Package...

Have it all included in of our overnight stay in our historic and cosy private rooms in th ......

Mt Aspiring Full Day Canyon

Mt Aspiring Full Day Cany...

Get excited! This full day canyon offers the most and biggest jumps and abseils available ......

Full Day Sail

Full Day Sail

Treat yourself to the only scheduled Full Day sailing tour in New Zealand's coastal paradi ......

Waiatoto River Safari

Waiatoto River Safari

Embark on the only jet boat tour in New Zealand that takes you from the Ocean to the Alps ......

Alpine Guided Hike

Alpine Guided Hike

Who says you need a chopper to experience views from a mile above Queenstown? Half day wal ......

Flight option 1 - Fox Glacier incl. snow landing (allow 20 minutes - departs Fox Glacier)

Flight option 1 - Fox Gla...

Explore the Fox Glacier to 6,000ft and land on the snow with exceptional views of New Zeal ......

Tekapo High Country Hike

Tekapo High Country Hike

Hike above worry level in the foothills of the Southern Alps. Be inspired by the magic lig ......

Guided sea kayak safari in Akaroa

Guided sea kayak safari i...

Akaroa Guided Kayak Safari’s sea kayaking tours are sure to bring out your adventurous s ......

Christchurch City Scenic Helicopter Flight

Christchurch City Scenic ...

A 20 minute flight over Christchurch City the picturesque harbour of Lyttelton and stunnin ......

Franz Josef to Queenstown via Wanaka

Franz Josef to Queenstown...

Explore the beautiful and famous West Coast via Wanaka on a fully guided small group tour ......

Snow Touch : Coronet Peak 12pm-2pm

Snow Touch : Coronet Peak...

Get ready for an exhilarating winter experience with our Snow Touch Adventure at Coronet P ......

60 minute Jet boat ride on the Shotover & Kawarau Rivers

60 minute Jet boat ride o...

Queenstown’s original Jet boat operator, KJet takes you on a wild 60 minute high speed J ......

Cable Bay Adventure Park

Cable Bay Adventure Park

The Cable Bay Adventure Park is Nelson's adventure playground and located less than 15 min ......

Milford Sound Express

Milford Sound Express

See Milford Sound from above with this scenic helicopter tour through Fiordland, which includes an alpine landing.

Queenstown Luxury Private tour (Full day) for up to 4 people

Queenstown Luxury Private...

Travelling through glacial valleys, around towering mountains and stopping off at spectacu ......

Tūhura Otago Museum Science Centre Day Pass

Tūhura Otago Museum Scie...

Come visit the largest science centre in New Zealand. With a Tropical Forest filled with l ......

4WD Sea-Kayaking Safari Tour at Pohatu Marine Reserve

4WD Sea-Kayaking Safari T...

Explore the towering volcanic cliffs, reefs and sea caves of Pohatu marine reserve en encounter its unique wildlife.

Mountain Bike Hire

Mountain Bike Hire

Hire a Mountain Bike and explore the stunning Queenstown Trail network

Shared Tour (English)

Shared Tour (English)

This is our classic experience. During this tour, you will share a 90 min astronomy experi ......

Wild Hills Off Road Safari

Wild Hills Off Road Safar...

Words fail to describe how utterly spectacular this 4WD adventure through West Wanaka High ......

Lakeland Jet Boat

Lakeland Jet Boat

Experience one of NewZealand’s most iconic adventure activities in some of the world gre ......

Golf

Golf

A championship quality course and excellent practice facilities close to Christchurch International Airport.

Methven- Mt Hutt Scenic Hot Air Balloon Flights

Methven- Mt Hutt Scenic H...

Adventure Balloons NZ is a renowned hot air ballooning company offering exhilarating and p ......

Single Kayak Hire

Single Kayak Hire

Immerse yourself in Lake Wanaka with the freedom to explore at your own pace on a kayak or ......

Gourmet Food and Wine Tour - Departs Queenstown (9.30am - 4.00pm)

Gourmet Food and Wine Tou...

Experience an indulgent and diverse full day tour showcasing the very best sights and tast ......

Guided Wildlife Kayaking

Guided Wildlife Kayaking

Experience the excitement of watching seals ducking, weaving and diving around your kayak. ......

Abel Tasman Experience with helicopter landing at Awaroa Beach for up to 6 people

Abel Tasman Experience wi...

One of our most popular helicopter tours - and for very good reasons! From our convenient ......

Shackleton Whiskey Endurance - 50-minute Glacier Flight

Shackleton Whiskey Endura...

About Savor a complimentary sampling of the renowned Shackleton Whiskey, inspired by the ......

Nomad Safaris Quad Bike I 4WD - U Drive Experience Queenstown

Nomad Safaris Quad Bike I...

This is New Zealand’s most spectacular quad biking, where the adventure is in your hands ......

Dolphin Encounter - Swim with or watch Kaikoura's Dusky Dolphins

Dolphin Encounter - Swim ...

Kaikoura is one of the best places in the world to both view and swim with wild dusky dolp ......

Bike The Wanaka And Hawea Trails - Luxury Shuttle Included

Bike The Wanaka And Hawea...

Experience the most stunning bike ride in Wānaka. Meander along the river trails from Hā ......

Double Kayak Hire

Double Kayak Hire

Immerse yourself in Lake Wanaka with the freedom to explore at your own pace on a kayak or ......

Seal Kayak Tour

Seal Kayak Tour

Seal Kayak Kaikoura is the first kayak tour of its kind in New Zealand that allows you to ......

Kahu Kayaks Guided Tours

Kahu Kayaks Guided Tours

Kahu Kayaks' guided kayaking tours in the Abel Tasman offer a taste of adventure, serenity ......

Discovery Cruise

Discovery Cruise

Join Peter & Cruise Te Anau for a boutique 3 hour Discovery Cruise to the beautiful an ......

Queenstown Highlights Tour

Queenstown Highlights Tou...

Sit back, relax and soak up the scenic sights on this fun and informative morning of guided sightseeing.

Milford Sound Cruise

Milford Sound Cruise

Join Pure Milford for the scenic cruise of a lifetime. Our famously friendly skipper and ......

Glenorchy Kiwi Special Tour

Glenorchy Kiwi Special To...

Come along with Queenstown Expeditions as we take you on our Glenorchy Kiwi Special tour o ......

Remarkables Scenic

Remarkables Scenic

Queenstown looks much different from up here. Enjoy the drama of Lake Whakatipu and the su ......

Milford Sound Landing

Milford Sound Landing

Experience the 'Eighth Wonder of the World' by air. Fly over the magnificent fiord, carved ......

Half day - Behind the Scenes Film Location Tour

Half day - Behind the Sce...

Join us on a half day journey with our expert guides deep into Glenorchy, Middle Earth, Pa ......

You Fly Helicopter Trial flight

You Fly Helicopter Trial ...

YouFly Helicopter Trial Flight Take control of your very own helicopter on a 30 minute tr ......

5 Day Majestic Milford, Glaciers & Rail - Scenic Coach Tour

5 Day Majestic Milford, G...

Discover New Zealand's South Island with our 5-day independent scenic coach tour! Start an ......

Stevensons Is Cruise & Nature Walk

Stevensons Is Cruise &...

Take a luxury catamaran to discover Stevensons Island on Lake Wanaka with a 2 hour small g ......

Pilot Choice - 35-minute Twin Glacier Flight

Pilot Choice - 35-minute ...

About If you're seeking to experience the real West Coast, we would love for you to join ......

West Coast Treetop Walk & Tower Zipline

West Coast Treetop Walk &...

Treetop Walkway Adventure If you find yourself wondering what there is to do in New Zeala ......

Fiordland's Finest

Fiordland's Finest

Beat the crowds with our signature flight that includes Milford Sound, Lake Quill, Mt Tuto ......

Silver River Stargazing Tour

Silver River Stargazing T...

Silver River™ Stargazing is Lake Tekapo’s leading small group stargazing tour. Large ......

Scenic Cruise Guided Walk

Scenic Cruise Guided Walk

Cross the South Fiord taking in all its majestic beauty and allow us to show you some of t ......

Pilot's Choice Queenstown Flight

Pilot's Choice Queenstown...

Indulge in a bird's eye view of Queenstown and her surrounding mountains.

Queenstown to Christchurch via Franz Josef 2 Day Tour

Queenstown to Christchurc...

This tour combines the rugged beauty of New Zealand's West Coast with the tranquility of t ......

West Coast Beaches and the Glaciers

West Coast Beaches and th...

Fly from towering mountains to rugged coast and experience the thrill of glacier flyover a ......

All About Paradise Half Day Expedition

All About Paradise Half D...

Mystical morning & afternoon half-day expeditions to Glenorchy and the famous Paradise ......

Milford Sound Cruise

Milford Sound Cruise

Escape the crowds and experience the beauty of Milford Sound in its true isolation and grandeur on our 2-hour cruise.

Franz Josef Wilderness Tours

Franz Josef Wilderness To...

Join us for a Kayak or Scenic Cruise on Lake Mapourika taking in the panoramic views of th ......

Mt Cook Day Tour From Tekapo (Small group, Carbon Neutral)

Mt Cook Day Tour From Tek...

We at Cheeky Kea Tours believe that it’s in the small things, the hidden surprises, and ......

Westland Wonderland 40 minute HELIMAX movie

Westland Wonderland 40 mi...

Westland Wonderland is a 40 minute HELIMAX screen movie of South-West New Zealand, the las ......

Dingleburn Discovery

Dingleburn Discovery

This is one of the most thrilling and spectacular backroad journeys in New Zealand. Your e ......

Puzzling World COMBO admission

Puzzling World COMBO admi...

Puzzling World is an iconic, unique & award winning attraction that since 1973 has fas ......


Frequently Asked Questions about the South Island Area

1. What are the top attractions in the South Island?

2. What are the top fun activities in the South Island?

3. What are the best things to do in the South Island with kids?

4. What to do in the South Island on a rainy day?

5. What are the best day trips from the South Island?

6. What are the best things to do near the South Island?

Tourist Information About South Island

The South Island of New Zealand harbours so many amazing sights and experiences. It is an unparalleled haven for breathtaking natural wonders and unforgettable experiences. From the soaring peaks of the Southern Alps to the pristine coastal landscapes, the region captivates visitors with its diverse offerings. Every corner of the South Island showcases awe-inspiring sights waiting to be explored. Whether you're an adventure seeker, nature enthusiast, or cultural explorer, the South Island offers an array of activities and attractions that promise to make your visit truly unforgettable. If you are visiting, there are a number of things that must be experienced and appreciated! Keep reading for the best things to do on any occasion.                       




Explore Marlborough Sounds.

Heli-Fish Marlborough Sounds is a one-of-a-kind experience that combines a private helicopter ride with a fishing trip. The helicopter will take you to a remote location within the Marlborough Sounds, where you will have the opportunity to fish the reef for some of the region's most sought-after species. In this unique fishing trip, all you have to do is turn up, all the gear is sorted!


Kayak with seals!

This Seal Kayak Tour is a unique way to explore the Marlborough Sounds by kayak. You'll paddle through the sound's pristine waters and see the local wildlife, including seals and dolphins. You'll also have the opportunity to stop and explore some of the region's beautiful beaches and islands.


Queenstown Segway Tour.

Bay Ride with a Segway tour around Queenstown. This tour takes you on a Segway ride around Queenstown Bay, where you can see the beautiful scenery of the region and learn about Queenstown history. You'll have the opportunity to ride along the shore of Lake Wakatipu and see the stunning Remarkables mountain range.


West Coast Private Helicopter Tour.

Wild North West Mountain to Sea by private helicopter is a helicopter tour that takes you to some of the most remote and beautiful areas of the West Coast. You will fly over rugged mountains, glaciers, and rainforests, and see some of the region's most spectacular scenery. 



See Queenstown by Hot Air Balloon!

Scenic Hot Air Balloon Flights: Take a hot air balloon ride over the beautiful landscape of the south island. You'll get a bird's eye view of the region's stunning mountains, lakes, and valleys, and see the beautiful colors of the sunrise or sunset.







Top fun activities in the South Island

The South Islands' terrain creates great opportunities for fun activities for all ages, price ranges and duration. 

Milford Sound Cruise

Take a cruise in one of the most picturesque places in the world! This is one of the most popular attractions in the South Island, and for good reason. A cruise through Milford Sound allows you to see the stunning fiords, waterfalls, and wildlife of the region, including seals and dolphins.

 

Bike Wineries for a Full Day

Take a leisurely bike ride through the stunning wineries of Central Otago, visiting several wineries and tasting some of the region's best wines. You'll also have the opportunity to see the beautiful scenery of the region and learn about the history of winemaking.

Paragliding at Coronet Peak

Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys as you paraglide from the higher take-off at Coronet Peak. With the Higher take off point, you can reach higher altitude and enjoy the stunning view for longer. This paragliding location is one that cant be missed!

 

Remarkables Scenic Helicopter Ride

This helicopter ride takes you over the Remarkables mountain range, one of the most spectacular mountain ranges in New Zealand. You'll see the beautiful glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and alpine meadows of the region and get a bird's eye view of the area.


Underworld Rafting in limestone caves

This is an adventure that takes you into the underground limestone caves of the Waitomo region. You'll raft through the caves, see the glowworms and explore the unique subterranean ecosystem of the area. It's a unique and exciting way to experience the beauty of the South Island.




Fun things to do with kids and children’s activities in the South Island

Many activities in the North Island are kid-friendly, yet memorable for everyone. Check out the list below for some ideas of activities to do with kids and with the whole family.
 



Explore top Glow Worm Caves in the South Island.

This Glow Worm Cave Tour is a fun and educational experience for kids of all ages, where you can explore underground limestone caves and see the glowworms, which are found only in New Zealand. The tour is suitable for children and is a great way to learn about the unique subterranean ecosystem of the region.

 

Experience Queenstown from a birds-eye-view.

Special Queenstown helicopter Flight: Take a scenic helicopter flight over Queenstown and the surrounding area, with a special route designed for children. You'll see the beautiful scenery of the region, including the Remarkables mountain range, and have the opportunity to spot local wildlife.

 

Kid-friendly Jet boat ride on the Shotover & Kawarau Rivers.

This is a thrilling experience for kids and adults alike, where you'll take a jet boat ride through the narrow canyons and rapids of the Shotover and Kawarau Rivers. There are slow and fast options for different levels of thrill, but all levels provide memorable experiences. It's a great way to see the beautiful scenery of the region and get your adrenaline pumping!

 

Olveston Historic Home Tour.

This is a fascinating tour of a historic home in Dunedin, which has been preserved to look as it did in the early 1900s. Kids will enjoy exploring the house and learning about the lifestyle of the people who used to live there.


Spend a day with penguins!

This 24/48 Hour Pohatu Package at a Penguin Colony is a unique experience where you can spend 24 to 48 hours at a penguin colony, watching the penguins come ashore to nest and care for their chicks. The package includes a guided tour of the colony, accommodation and meals. It's a great way to see the penguins in their natural habitat and it's a great educational experience for children.



Things to do in the South Island when it's raining

The weather in the South Island is not always perfect. However, there are still many activities that are available when it rains that are just as fun and memorable.




Massage & Day Spa Treatments.

When it's raining outside, what could be better than relaxing with a massage or spa treatment? Many spas in the South Island offer a variety of treatments, such as massages, facials, and body wraps, that will help you relax and unwind.


Indoor Skydiving.

The Kickstart 2 Flight Indoor Skydiving Package is an awesome indoor skydiving experience that allows you to experience the sensation of freefall without the need for good weather! You'll fly in a vertical wind tunnel and enjoy the feeling of flying. 


Glow Worm Cave Tour.

This is a great option for a rainy day, as it takes place underground in the limestone caves where you can see the beautiful glow worms. You'll learn about the unique subterranean ecosystem of the area and enjoy the sights and sounds of the caves.

 

Puzzling World.

Puzzling World is a fun and interactive attraction filled with illusions and mazes. It's a great option for a rainy day as it offers plenty of indoor activities that will keep the whole family entertained.

 

Milford Sound Discover More Cruise.

Even if the weather is not perfect, you can still enjoy a cruise through Milford Sound, one of the most spectacular fiords in New Zealand. The Discover More Cruise will take you to the base of Stirling Falls, where you'll have the opportunity to see the waterfall up close and experience the beauty of Milford Sound in all its glory. On cloudy days, Milford Sound displays stunning deep green water that may be missed when the sun is shining.




Best day trips in the South Island

Here are some of the top activities to do when you have a whole day to fill in! These activities range all over the south island and offer the most spectacular, memorable views and experiences.



Fish from a Helicopter in Marlborough Sounds.

A unique experience that combines a helicopter ride with a fishing trip in the Marlborough Sounds. You'll be flown to a remote location within the sound and have the opportunity to fish for some of the region's most sought-after species.

 

Queenstown Wine & Cheese Cruise.

Enjoy a relaxing cruise on Lake Wakatipu while tasting some of the local wines and cheeses. The cruise will take you around the lake and you will get to see the stunning views of the Remarkables mountain range.

 

Sledging down a river.

This is a thrilling experience where you'll be pulled by a jet boat along a river while sitting on a sled. This is a fun and exciting way to see the beautiful scenery of the region while getting an adrenaline rush.

 

Milford Sound Scenic Flight and Nature Cruise. 


This is a comprehensive tour of Milford Sound, which includes a flight to Milford Sound, a cruise through the fiord, and a flight back. You'll see the stunning scenery of Milford Sound from above and below, and have the opportunity to spot wildlife such as dolphins and seals.

 

Aoraki and Mt Cook Luxury Private tour. 

This tour takes you to Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, home to New Zealand's highest mountain. You'll have the opportunity to see the stunning alpine scenery and glaciers of the region and to explore the area with a private guide.










Great Experiences in the South Island

Below are some of the best things to do on the South Island to create long-lasting memories with friends and family.



Abel Tasman helicopter Experience with a landing at Awaroa Beach

This is a unique way to experience the beauty of the Abel Tasman National Park. Take a helicopter ride that lands on the secluded Awaroa Beach, where you can enjoy a picnic and take in the stunning views. With a capacity of up to 6 people, this is a great option for a group of friends or family.

 

South Island Kayak and walk

This experience combines the best of both worlds, a kayak trip and a walk through the Abel Tasman National Park. Kayak through the crystal-clear waters of the park, taking in the stunning scenery and wildlife. After kayaking, take a walk on one of the many beautiful coastal tracks and explore the park further.

 

Helicopter ride in Nelson

Take a scenic helicopter ride over the Nelson region and see the beautiful landscapes from above. See the stunning beaches, mountains, and forests of the region and get a bird's eye view of the area.

 

Kayaking at Queen Charlotte Sound

This is a beautiful spot for kayaking, with crystal clear waters, stunning scenery and wildlife. Kayak through the sound and take in the views of the surrounding mountains and forests. It's a great way to explore the area and get some exercise.

 

Private Vineyard Tour by car

Visit some of the best vineyards in the region and learn about the winemaking process from the experts. You'll get to taste some of the wines and learn about the different varieties and the regions they come from. With a private tour, you can tailor the experience to your preferences and enjoy a more intimate experience.





Best hikes and walking tracks in the South Island


The South Island is made up of spectacular rugged coastline and beautiful snow-capped mountain ranges that make for the most amazing walks. There are a variety of walking tracks on offer, from coastline tracks and bush walks to mountain ranges for serious hikers. The tracks can range from one hour to complete to several days. Hikes are one of the best ways to explore the stunning and vast South Island.

 


Abel Tasman National Park

The Abel Tasman National Park is perfect for everyone as it contains walks for all experience levels and all durations, from 2 hours to 5 days! The park is located at the top of the South Island and features both coastal and inland tracks. The best features on offer are stunning snorkelling beaches, unusual rock formations, lush native bushes, a beautiful waterfall and New Zealand’s deepest vertical shaft!



Milford track

The Milford track is an unforgettable experience located in Fiordland that must be done. It is world-renowned and the most famous trek in New Zealand. The well-maintained path makes this 4-day excursion suitable for beginners. This track takes you through viewpoints that showcase towering glaciers, magnificent waterfalls and native bush. After the walk, there is a breathtaking boat ride back through the sounds.

 

Mount Sunday

This mountain is well known from a scene in the Lord of the Rings! Take an easy 30-minute stroll up the mountain and see if you recognise the stunning glacial valley.



Kepler track

This track is a 3-4 day hike that spans through 60km of tussock, mountain ranges and forest in the Fiordland region. The track is well maintained for intermediate experience levels. Limestone rock formations and waterfalls are just some of the amazing highlights along this track. If you are planning on completing this track, make sure to book and secure a bed! 



Mt John Walkway in Tekapo

The Mt John Walkway is a short but steep walking track that shows off panoramic views of Lake Tekapo, the Southern Alps, and the Mackenzie Basin flats. This track has several pathways that allow you to tailor it to your preference. Whether you have a full-day hike in mind or just a brisk walk, the Mt John Walkway is perfect. If you do make it to the top, there is the famous Astro cafe waiting for you.



Queenstown Hill Time Walk

This walk is perfect for locals and tourists alike. After only 3 hours of walking up the Queenstown hill, you are greeted with the most spectacular view of Queenstown and the surrounding lakes and mountain ranges. Located just a 4-minute drive from Queenstown, this is the best way to fill in an afternoon.



Jack’s Point

Jack’s point is an easy-going walk that rewards you the whole way. Take in the shutting mountain and lake views as you stroll through open grassland for 4 hours.



Rakiura Track

Walking tracks on Stewart Island are not to be overlooked. This walk takes you over 32 km of untouched history that is home to a wide variety of wildlife. For 3 days, you will be immersed in nature that few other people have experienced.

 





Beaches in the South Island to Visit

The South Island of New Zealand boasts some of the most picturesque and diverse beaches. Beaches in the South Island are all worth visiting as each one is unique and beautiful. From surf beaches, black sand beaches and rocky beaches to stunning shist beaches, the South Island has something for everyone.

 



Abel Tasman National Park - Kaiteriteri Beach

As the gateway to the Abel Tasman Coastal Track, Kaiteriteri Beach is a stunning golden sand beach surrounded by native bush. It offers a perfect starting point for exploring the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park by foot or kayak.


Moeraki Boulders Beach

Known for its unique spherical boulders scattered along the shore, Moeraki Boulders Beach on the Otago coast provides a captivating and otherworldly seascape. The boulders are a must-see geological wonder.


Wharariki Beach

Located at the top of the South Island, Wharariki Beach is a remote and wild coastal gem. Visitors can enjoy the sight of dramatic sea stacks, huge sand dunes, and the resident seal colony, making it a truly magical destination.


Punakaiki Beach

Home to the famous Pancake Rocks and Blowholes, Punakaiki Beach on the West Coast offers a unique coastal landscape with limestone formations. The pancake-like rock structures and the powerful blowholes attract visitors from around the world.


Stewart Island - Mason Bay

Mason Bay on Stewart Island is a pristine and secluded beach. It's surrounded by native bush, providing a tranquil escape and an opportunity to explore New Zealand's third-largest island.


Golden Bay - Wharariki Beach

A different Wharariki Beach, this one is located in Golden Bay and is equally stunning. It features massive sand dunes, arches, and rock formations. The beach is part of the Farewell Spit nature reserve, offering a unique coastal experience.


Sumner Beach

A popular beach near Christchurch, Sumner Beach offers a relaxed atmosphere with a backd-r-o-p of rugged cliffs. It's a great spot for swimming, surfing, and enjoying the vibrant local community.


Akaroa - French Bay

Nestled in the Banks Peninsula, French Bay in Akaroa is a charming and sheltered beach with a French-inspired village nearby. The bay offers a picturesque setting for relaxing strolls and water activities.


Haast Beach

Situated on the West Coast, Haast Beach is a wild and untamed stretch of coastline. With its black sand and remote location, it provides a peaceful environment to appreciate the raw beauty of New Zealand's West Coast.


Kaikoura - South Bay

Known for its marine life, South Bay in Kaikoura offers a scenic beach with a backd-r-o-p of majestic mountains. Visitors can enjoy the views, go for a swim, or even spot whales and dolphins in the nearby waters.


Oreti Beach

Located near Invercargill, Oreti Beach is a long and straight stretch of golden sand famous for its association with Burt Munro, the world-famous motorbike racer. It's a great spot for a peaceful walk or to witness the roaring surf.


Curio Bay

Curio Bay on the Catlins Coast is known for its ancient petrified forest and resident Hector's dolphins. The beach offers a unique blend of natural wonders and wildlife, making it a must-visit destination in the South Island.

 

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